Featured
-
-
Article
| Open AccessGrowth of lithium-indium dendrites in all-solid-state lithium-based batteries with sulfide electrolytes
Li-In alloys are widely used as reference materials in the research field of solid-state lithium-based batteries. Here, the authors report and discuss the instability of Li-In electrodes towards sulfide solid electrolytes in all-solid-state batteries.
- Shuting Luo
- , Zhenyu Wang
- & Xing Zhang
-
Article
| Open AccessDefect engineering on V2O3 cathode for long-cycling aqueous zinc metal batteries
Aqueous Zn metal batteries are a promising system for high-power electrochemical energy storage. Here, the authors investigate a defective V2O3 cathode via neutron and X-ray techniques and test the material in Zn metal cell configuration for 30k cycles.
- Kefu Zhu
- , Shiqiang Wei
- & Li Song
-
Article
| Open AccessUnveiling the key factor for the phase reconstruction and exsolved metallic particle distribution in perovskites
The complete phase reconstruction to Ruddlesden-Popper perovskite is greatly desirable to increase the exsolved particle distribution. Here, the authors report a key factor for the complete phase reconstruction in perovskites, leading to good catalytic activity in fuel cell and syngas production.
- Hyunmin Kim
- , Chaesung Lim
- & Guntae Kim
-
Article
| Open AccessMoving beyond bimetallic-alloy to single-atom dimer atomic-interface for all-pH hydrogen evolution
While single, dispersed atoms enable efficient atomic utilization, controllably preparing single-atom dimers remains challenging. Here, authors prepare nickel-cobalt single-atom dimers as high-performance pH-universal H2 evolution electrocatalysts.
- Ashwani Kumar
- , Viet Q. Bui
- & Hyoyoung Lee
-
Article
| Open AccessA mechanistic investigation of the Li10GeP2S12|LiNi1-x-yCoxMnyO2 interface stability in all-solid-state lithium batteries
Fundamental investigations at the electrode/electrolyte interface are essential for developing high-energy batteries. Here, the authors investigate the degradation mechanisms at the LGPS/NCM622 interface providing a quantitative model to interpret the interfacial resistance growth.
- Tong-Tong Zuo
- , Raffael Rueß
- & Jürgen Janek
-
Article
| Open AccessSelective cobalt and nickel electrodeposition for lithium-ion battery recycling through integrated electrolyte and interface control
Recovery of metals from Li-ion batteries is a key for sustainability. Here the authors demonstrate a Li-ion cell recycling process via selective electrochemical Co and Ni recovery by controlling the electrode interface and the electrolyte.
- Kwiyong Kim
- , Darien Raymond
- & Xiao Su
-
Article
| Open AccessTransition metal-doped Ni-rich layered cathode materials for durable Li-ion batteries
Long-term efficient cycling stability is of paramount importance for the development of high-energy Li-ion batteries. Here, the authors investigate the effect of transition metal dopants on the electrochemical, morphological, and structural properties of Ni-rich cathode active materials.
- H. Hohyun Sun
- , Un-Hyuck Kim
- & Yang-Kook Sun
-
Comment
| Open AccessUnderstanding Li-based battery materials via electrochemical impedance spectroscopy
Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy is a key technique for understanding Li-based battery processes. Here, the authors discuss the current state of the art, advantages and challenges of this technique, also giving an outlook for future developments.
- Miran Gaberšček
-
Article
| Open AccessOperando magnetic resonance imaging for mapping of temperature and redox species in thermo-electrochemical cells
Devices able to harvest heat to generate electricity are intensively studied for sustainable energy production. Here, the authors investigate the mechanism of thermo-electrochemical cells via operando magnetic resonance imaging.
- Isuru E. Gunathilaka
- , Jennifer M. Pringle
- & Luke A. O’Dell
-
Article
| Open AccessEvolving contact mechanics and microstructure formation dynamics of the lithium metal-Li7La3Zr2O12 interface
All-solid-state batteries are promising alternatives to Li-ion batteries. Here, the authors investigate the chemo-mechanical changes at the lithium metal/solid electrolyte interface via operando acoustic transmission and magnetic resonance imaging.
- Wesley Chang
- , Richard May
- & Daniel Steingart
-
Comment
| Open AccessThe importance of electrode interfaces and interphases for rechargeable metal batteries
Metal electrode interfaces and interphases are critical for the development of future high-energy metal batteries. Here, Dr Jelena Popovic-Neuber discusses the state of the art, issues and strategies to improve the stability of metal electrodes toward practical battery systems.
- Jelena Popovic
-
Article
| Open AccessRational design of mechanically robust Ni-rich cathode materials via concentration gradient strategy
Mechanical integrity issues are one of the main causes of limited long-term cycle stability for Ni-rich cathode materials. Here the authors analyse the roles of cobalt and manganese and utilise a concentration gradient design to mitigate these issues.
- Tongchao Liu
- , Lei Yu
- & Khalil Amine
-
Article
| Open AccessCoordination tailoring of Cu single sites on C3N4 realizes selective CO2 hydrogenation at low temperature
CO2 hydrogenation has attracted intense scientific attention yet suffers from the disadvantage of poor activity and low selectivity. Here, the authors report that Cu single atom catalysts with tailored coordination environments on C3N4 serve as highly selective catalysts for CO2 hydrogenation.
- Tang Yang
- , Xinnan Mao
- & Xiaoqing Huang
-
Review Article
| Open AccessAdvancements in cathode catalyst and cathode layer design for proton exchange membrane fuel cells
The high platinum loadings at the cathodes of proton exchange membrane fuel cells significantly contribute to the cost of these clean energy conversion devices. Here, the authors critically review and discuss recent developments on low- and non-platinum-based cathode catalysts and catalyst layers.
- Yanyan Sun
- , Shlomi Polani
- & Fabio Dionigi
-
Article
| Open AccessAchieving stable Na metal cycling via polydopamine/multilayer graphene coating of a polypropylene separator
The development of future Na metal batteries relies on the cycling stability of the metallic anode. Here, the authors propose a polypropylene separator functionalized with polydopamine and multilayer graphene to enable stable and prolonged Na metal cell cycling.
- Jieqiong Qin
- , Haodong Shi
- & Zhong-Shuai Wu
-
Article
| Open AccessA synergistic exploitation to produce high-voltage quasi-solid-state lithium metal batteries
The energy content increase is of paramount importance for the development of future Li-based batteries. Here, the authors propose a gel polymer electrolyte in combination with a positive electrode comprising of a Li-rich oxide active material and graphite to produce a high-energy Li metal cell.
- Junru Wu
- , Xianshu Wang
- & Guoxiu Wang
-
Article
| Open AccessIntrinsic nanostructure induced ultralow thermal conductivity yields enhanced thermoelectric performance in Zintl phase Eu2ZnSb2
Understanding mechanisms for obtaining low thermal conductivity without degraded electrical properties remains a challenge. Here, the authors reveal a mechanism for thermal conductivity reduction in a Zintl phase thermoelectric based on length scales for disorder in Eu2ZnSb2.
- Chen Chen
- , Zhenzhen Feng
- & Qian Zhang
-
Review Article
| Open AccessProduction of high-energy Li-ion batteries comprising silicon-containing anodes and insertion-type cathodes
Large-scale manufacturing of high-energy Li-ion cells is of paramount importance for developing efficient rechargeable battery systems. Here, the authors report in-depth discussions and evaluations on the use of silicon-containing anodes together with insertion-based cathodes.
- Gebrekidan Gebresilassie Eshetu
- , Heng Zhang
- & Egbert Figgemeier
-
Article
| Open AccessTunable and functional deep eutectic solvents for lignocellulose valorization
Deep eutectic solvents (DES) are intriguing green reaction media for biomass processing, however, undesired lignin condensation is a typical drawback. Here the authors develop a tunable ternary DES system that allows for stabilization of reactive intermediates for efficient lignocellulose fractionation.
- Yongzhuang Liu
- , Noemi Deak
- & Katalin Barta
-
Article
| Open AccessA saccharide-based binder for efficient polysulfide regulations in Li-S batteries
The long-term cycling of Li-S batteries depends on the polysulfides shuttling regulation. Here, the authors present a saccharide-based binder system to control the polysulfides migration and improve the cycle life of a Li-S pouch cell.
- Yingyi Huang
- , Mahdokht Shaibani
- & Mainak Majumder
-
Article
| Open AccessLi-ion storage properties of two-dimensional titanium-carbide synthesized via fast one-pot method in air atmosphere
A facile and cost-effective synthesis of MXenes is not yet available. Here, the authors propose a one-pot molten salt-based method of MXenes synthesis from elemental precursors in an air atmosphere. Li-ion storage properties of the MXenes are also reported and discussed.
- Guoliang Ma
- , Hui Shao
- & Zifeng Lin
-
Article
| Open AccessSelection rules of triboelectric materials for direct-current triboelectric nanogenerator
Appropriate triboelectric material selection is vital to for high performance direct current triboelectric nanogenerator (DC-TENG). The authors here provide effective selection rules as guideline to select triboelectric materials for DC-TENG to reduce the trial-and-error cost for DC-TENG’s research.
- Zhihao Zhao
- , Linglin Zhou
- & Zhong Lin Wang
-
Article
| Open AccessHigh performance floating self-excited sliding triboelectric nanogenerator for micro mechanical energy harvesting
High reliability is a huge challenge for sliding mode triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG). Here the authors develop a floating self-excited sliding TENG achieving both high durability and output for sustainable micro mechanical energy harvesting.
- Li Long
- , Wenlin Liu
- & Chenguo Hu
-
Article
| Open AccessHighly efficient and robust noble-metal free bifunctional water electrolysis catalyst achieved via complementary charge transfer
While water electrolysis offers a renewable means to obtain H2, it is necessary to understand the roles adopted by catalytic components. Here, authors explore a heterostructured MoSe2/perovskite oxide catalyst that shows multidirectional charge transfer to boost electrocatalytic water splitting.
- Nam Khen Oh
- , Jihyung Seo
- & Hyesung Park
-
Article
| Open AccessAtomic-scale unveiling of multiphase evolution during hydrated Zn-ion insertion in vanadium oxide
The detailed understanding of the structural variations during cycling in cathodes for Zn-ion aqueous rechargeable batteries is still limited. Here, the authors utilize atomic-column-resolved scanning transmission electron microscopy to elucidate multiphase evolution during hydrated Zn-Ion insertion in vanadium oxide.
- Pilgyu Byeon
- , Youngjae Hong
- & Sung-Yoon Chung
-
Article
| Open AccessA cost-effective and humidity-tolerant chloride solid electrolyte for lithium batteries
Stable inorganic solid electrolytes are instrumental in developing high-voltage Li metal batteries. Here, the authors present the synthesis and electrochemical energy storage properties of a cost-effective and humidity-tolerant chloride solid electrolyte.
- Kai Wang
- , Qingyong Ren
- & Cheng Ma
-
Article
| Open AccessA high capacity small molecule quinone cathode for rechargeable aqueous zinc-organic batteries
The flexible structural design of organic materials make them promising candidates for cathode in rechargeable batteries. Here, the authors report a tetraamino-p-benzoquinone cathode which realizes facile proton conduction by the Grotthuss-type mechanism and shows excellent electrochemical performance.
- Zirui Lin
- , Hua-Yu Shi
- & Xiaoqi Sun
-
Article
| Open AccessThe active sites of Cu–ZnO catalysts for water gas shift and CO hydrogenation reactions
Identification of active sites of a catalyst is the Holy Grail in heterogeneous catalysis. Here, the authors successfully identify the CuCu(100)- hydroxylated ZnO ensemble and CuCu(611)Zn alloy as the active sites of Cu-ZnO catalysts for water gas shift and CO hydrogenation reactions, respectively.
- Zhenhua Zhang
- , Xuanye Chen
- & Weixin Huang
-
Article
| Open AccessRapid electron transfer via dynamic coordinative interaction boosts quantum efficiency for photocatalytic CO2 reduction
Positioning photosensitizer and catalyst complexes in photocatalytic systems is a promising method to direct desired electron transfers. Here, authors employ a dynamic coordinative interaction between molecular components to improve CO2 photoreduction to CO with a high quantum efficiency of 27.9%.
- Jia-Wei Wang
- , Long Jiang
- & Gangfeng Ouyang
-
Article
| Open AccessDetection of high-valent iron species in alloyed oxidic cobaltates for catalysing the oxygen evolution reaction
The capturing of high valent iron in a catalytic reaction is important but difficult task. Here, the authors report identification of a high-valent Fe(IV)-species with different spectroscopic tools such as Mössbauer spectroscopy and X-ray absorption spectroscopy during the course of an oxygen evolving reaction.
- Nancy Li
- , Ryan G. Hadt
- & Daniel G. Nocera
-
Article
| Open AccessAtomic-scale regulation of anionic and cationic migration in alkali metal batteries
An optimized transport of anions and cations is essential for the development of practical alkali metal batteries. Here, the authors report the use of Ti0.87O2 nanosheets as coating material of polypropylene separators for Li-S, Li-Se and Na-Se cells.
- Pan Xiong
- , Fan Zhang
- & Guoxiu Wang
-
Article
| Open AccessTuning of lattice oxygen reactivity and scaling relation to construct better oxygen evolution electrocatalyst
While water-splitting provides a renewable means to generate fuel, the water-oxidation half-reaction is considered a bottleneck process. Here, authors tune lattice oxygen reactivity and scaling relations via alkali metal ion mediation in NaMn3O7 for oxygen evolution electrocatalysis.
- Zhen-Feng Huang
- , Shibo Xi
- & Xin Wang
-
Article
| Open AccessThe origin of the high electrochemical activity of pseudo-amorphous iridium oxides
The origins of the superior catalytic activity of poorly crystallized Ir-based oxide material for the OER in acid is still under debate. Here, authors synthesize porous IrMo oxides to deconvolute the effect of Ir oxidation state from short-range ordering and show the latter to be a key factor.
- Marine Elmaalouf
- , Mateusz Odziomek
- & Jennifer Peron
-
Comment
| Open AccessCorrelating advanced microscopies reveals atomic-scale mechanisms limiting lithium-ion battery lifetime
The longevity of a lithium-ion battery is limited by cathode degradation. Combining atom probe tomography and scanning transmission electron microscopy reveals that the degradation results from atomic-scale irreversible structural changes once lithium leaves the cathode during charging, thereby inhibiting lithium intercalation back into the cathode as the battery discharges. This information unveils possible routes for improving the lifetime of lithium-ion batteries.
- Baptiste Gault
- & Jonathan D. Poplawsky
-
Article
| Open AccessPlatinum single-atom catalyst coupled with transition metal/metal oxide heterostructure for accelerating alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction
While H2 evolution from water may represent a renewable energy source, there is a strong need to improve catalytic efficiencies while maximizing materials utilization. Here, authors examine single-atom Pt on nickel-based heterostructures as highly active electrocatalysts for alkaline H2 evolution.
- Kai Ling Zhou
- , Zelin Wang
- & Hui Yan
-
Comment
| Open AccessElectrochemical energy storage performance of 2D nanoarchitectured hybrid materials
The fast-growing interest for two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials is undermined by their natural restacking tendency, which severely limits their practical application. Novel porous heterostructures that coordinate 2D nanosheets with monolayered mesoporous scaffolds offer an opportunity to greatly expand the library of advanced materials suitable for electrochemical energy storage technologies.
- Jie Wang
- , Victor Malgras
- & Yusuke Yamauchi
-
Article
| Open AccessFormation of three-dimensional bicontinuous structures via molten salt dealloying studied in real-time by in situ synchrotron X-ray nano-tomography
Understanding how pores evolve in metals submerged in molten salts is important for nanofabrication technology and molten salt corrosion in nuclear and solar power plants. Here, the authors present an in situ X-ray 3D imaging to directly visualize and quantify the process.
- Xiaoyang Liu
- , Arthur Ronne
- & Yu-chen Karen Chen-Wiegart
-
Article
| Open AccessSolvent-induced electrochemistry at an electrically asymmetric carbon Janus particle
Chemical doping of low dimensional materials by surface adsorbed molecules has proven to be a source of electrical energy. Here, the authors find that asymmetric particles consisting of carbon nanotubes can drive electrochemical reactions by electrical potential generated from solvent adsorption.
- Albert Tianxiang Liu
- , Yuichiro Kunai
- & Michael S. Strano
-
Article
| Open AccessGold-in-copper at low *CO coverage enables efficient electromethanation of CO2
The electroreduction of CO2 offers a promising approach to produce carbon-neutral methane using renewable electricity. This study shows that the introduction of Au in Cu enables selective methane production from CO2 by regulating *CO availability.
- Xue Wang
- , Pengfei Ou
- & Edward H. Sargent
-
Article
| Open AccessSpatially explicit analysis identifies significant potential for bioenergy with carbon capture and storage in China
China has pledged to achieve carbon neutrality in 2060. Here the authors find a promising option to abate 1.0 Gt CO2-eq yr−1 of carbon emissions at a marginal cost of $69 (t CO2-eq)−1 by retrofitting 222 GW of coal power plants to co-fire with biomass and upgrading to CCS operation across 2836 counties in China.
- Xiaofan Xing
- , Rong Wang
- & Siqing Xu
-
Article
| Open AccessTwin boundary defect engineering improves lithium-ion diffusion for fast-charging spinel cathode materials
Defect modulation and understanding its impact on electrode materials remain challenging. Here, authors introduce twin boundaries into spinel cathode and demonstrate that their presence enables fast lithium ion diffusion.
- Rui Wang
- , Xin Chen
- & Yinguo Xiao
-
Article
| Open AccessManipulating anion intercalation enables a high-voltage aqueous dual ion battery
The interactions between water molecules, electrode materials and anions are essential yet challenging for aqueous dual ion batteries. Here, the authors demonstrate the voltage manipulation of dual ion batteries through matching intercalation energy and solvation energy of different anions.
- Zhaodong Huang
- , Yue Hou
- & Chunyi Zhi
-
Article
| Open AccessModifying redox properties and local bonding of Co3O4 by CeO2 enhances oxygen evolution catalysis in acid
Developing efficient and stable earth-abundant electrocatalysts for acidic oxygen evolution reaction is challenging. Here, the authors modify the local bonding environment of Co3O4 by CeO2 nanocrystallites to regulate the redox properties, thus enhance the catalytic activity.
- Jinzhen Huang
- , Hongyuan Sheng
- & Song Jin
-
Article
| Open AccessMolecular insights of exceptionally photostable electron acceptors for organic photovoltaics
Non-fullerene acceptors have contributed hugely to the best-performing organic solar cells, yet the photo-degradation remains a hurdle preventing the practical application. In this work, research group from Zhejiang University discovers non-fused acceptors with excellent photochemical tolerance in aerobic condition, and identify the main degradation pathway.
- Zhi-Xi Liu
- , Zhi-Peng Yu
- & Chang-Zhi Li
-
Article
| Open AccessLow coordination number copper catalysts for electrochemical CO2 methanation in a membrane electrode assembly
Electrochemical conversion of carbon dioxide to methane can store intermittent renewable electricity in a staple of global energy. Here, the authors develop a moderator strategy to maintain the catalyst in a low coordination state, thereby enabling stable and selective electrochemical methanation.
- Yi Xu
- , Fengwang Li
- & David Sinton
-
Article
| Open AccessA universal strategy towards high–energy aqueous multivalent–ion batteries
Rechargeable multivalent-ion batteries are promising candidates for future energy storage technologies. Here, the authors develop various aqueous multivalent-ion cells using concentrated aqueous gel electrolytes, sulfur-containing anodes, and high-voltage metal oxide cathodes.
- Xiao Tang
- , Dong Zhou
- & Guoxiu Wang
-
Article
| Open AccessDegradation mechanism of hybrid tin-based perovskite solar cells and the critical role of tin (IV) iodide
Tin perovskites have emerged as promising alternatives to toxic lead perovskite in next-generation photovoltaics, but the poor environmental stability remains an obstacle for the application. Here, the authors study the degradation mechanism of tin perovskite films, and identify a cyclic degradation mechanism involving tin (IV) iodide.
- Luis Lanzetta
- , Thomas Webb
- & Saif A. Haque
-
Article
| Open AccessDefect-free potassium manganese hexacyanoferrate cathode material for high-performance potassium-ion batteries
Potassium-ion battery is a promising candidate for post-Li-ion energy storage but the lack of cathode materials hinders practical exploitation. Here the authors investigate defect-free potassium manganese hexacyanoferrate as cathode active material for high energy and long lifespan K-based cells.
- Leqing Deng
- , Jiale Qu
- & Yujie Zhu
-
Article
| Open AccessTaming nitroformate through encapsulation with nitrogen-rich hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks
Nitroformate is an attractive oxidant compound in propellants and explosives but its poor thermostability prevents it from application. Here, the authors demonstrate that incorporation of nitroformate in a hydrogen-bonded organic framework increases the thermostability of nitroformate.
- Jichuan Zhang
- , Yongan Feng
- & Jean’ne M. Shreeve