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Photocatalytic hydrogen production with simultaneous degradation of organic pollutants by using solar energy provide a promising strategy to solve the energy and environmental issue in the future. However, for onefold wide band-gap semiconductor, the poor photocatalytic efficiency limits its application on a large scale due to its easy recombination of photo-generated electron-hole pairs and low solar energy utilization. Herein, a novel Z-scheme BiVO 4 (040)-Bi-(NaYF 4 :Er,Yb,Tm@BiOBr)/Bi photocatalyst is prepared via photo-assisted isoelectric point method. In this composite photocatalyst, up-convention luminescence material, NaYF 4 :Er,Yb,Tm, can offer more ultraviolet light and visible light to intensify the activations of BiOBr and metal Bi nanoparticles, respectively. Furthermore, the formation of Z-scheme BiVO 4 (040)-BiOBr photocatalystic sytem, the spatial separation of the BiVO 4 (040) and BiVO 4 (110) facets and the presence of metal Bi surface plasmon resonance effect are contributed to the high-efficiency separation of the photo-generated electron-hole pairs. The experimental results show that as-prepared Z-scheme BiVO 4 (040)-Bi-(NaYF 4 :Er,Yb,Tm@BiOBr)/Bi photocatalyst exhibits advanced photocatalytic hydrogen production amount (192.0 μm) and excellent degradation ratio of malachite green (88.51 %) under simulated sunlight irradiation for 5.0 h. The apparent quantum yield of the Z-scheme BiVO 4 (040)-Bi-(NaYF 4 :Er,Yb,Tm@BiOBr)/Bi photocatalyst at 420 nm reaches a specific value of 5.8 %. In addition, Z-scheme BiVO 4 (040)-Bi-(NaYF 4 :Er,Yb,Tm@BiOBr)/Bi photocatalyst also remains a high stability in the photocatalytic hydrogen production with simultaneous degradation of malachite green within six reuse. At last, the possible reaction mechanism and degradation pathways of malachite green caused by Z-scheme BiVO 4 (040)-Bi-(NaYF 4 :Er,Yb,Tm@BiOBr)/Bi photocatalyst under simulated sunlight irradiation are put forward. • A high-efficiency BiVO 4 (040)-Bi-(NaYF 4 :Er,Yb,Tm@BiOBr)/Bi photocatalyst is prepared. • NaYF 4 :Er,Yb,Tm offers UV and VS lights to intensify activations of BiOBr and Bi. • The occurrence of SPR effect of Bi nanoparticles inhibits e− and h+ recombination. • BiVO 4 achieves the separation of photo-induced carrier on the (040) and (110) facet. • Malachite green is used as sacrifice agent for enhancing photocatalytic H 2 evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellulose nanocrystal (CNC) based optical devices with adjustable schemochrome have attracted immense interest. However, most of the previously reported structural colored CNC‐based materials can only achieve simple stress‐induced color change, which have difficulty achieving multimode control of complex patterning that can be accurately identified. Here, inspired by the nanostructure‐based color‐changing mechanism of neon tetra, this study presents a pressure/temperature dual‐responsive CNC‐based schemochrome hydrogel with adjustable dynamic chiral nematic structure. By incorporating abundant interfacial noncovalent interactions, dynamic correlations between adjustable helical pitch of the vertically stacked cholesteric liquid crystalline (LC) phase and responsiveness of flexible thermosensitive substrate are established, which further enable wide‐range optical characteristic (12°–213° in HSV color model and 421–734 nm in the UV–Vis spectra) and identifiable visualized patterning. The resultant hydrogels are applied in proof‐of‐concept demonstrations of on‐demand schemochrome patterning, including customizable patterned dual‐encryption label, smart digital display, temperature monitor, and intelligent recognition/control system. This study envisages that the bioinspired construction of structural colored nanomaterials will have promising applications in smart responsive photonic equipment including smart display, anticounterfeiting, and intelligent control systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smart fluorescent materials that can respond to environmental stimuli are of great importance in the fields of information encryption and anti‐counterfeiting. However, traditional fluorescent materials usually face problems such as lack of tunable fluorescence and insufficient surface‐adaptive adhesion, hindering their practical applications. Herein, inspired by the glowing sucker octopus, we present a novel strategy to fabricate a reversible fluorescent eutectogel with high transparency, adhesive and self‐healing performance for conformal information encryption and anti‐counterfeiting. Using anthracene as luminescent unit, the eutectogel exhibits photoswitchable fluorescence and can therefore be reversibly written/erased with patterns by non‐contact stimulation. Additionally, different from mechanically irreversible adhesion via glue, the eutectogel can adhere to various irregular substrates over a wide temperature range (−20 to 65 °C) and conformally deform more than 1000 times without peeling off. Furthermore, by exploiting surface‐adaptive adhesion, high transparency and good stretchability of the eutectogel, dual encryption can be achieved under UV and stretching conditions to further improve the security level. This study should provide a promising strategy for the future development of advanced intelligent anti‐counterfeiting materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Smart fluorescent materials that can respond to environmental stimuli are of great importance in the fields of information encryption and anti‐counterfeiting. However, traditional fluorescent materials usually face problems such as lack of tunable fluorescence and insufficient surface‐adaptive adhesion, hindering their practical applications. Herein, inspired by the glowing sucker octopus, we present a novel strategy to fabricate a reversible fluorescent eutectogel with high transparency, adhesive and self‐healing performance for conformal information encryption and anti‐counterfeiting. Using anthracene as luminescent unit, the eutectogel exhibits photoswitchable fluorescence and can therefore be reversibly written/erased with patterns by non‐contact stimulation. Additionally, different from mechanically irreversible adhesion via glue, the eutectogel can adhere to various irregular substrates over a wide temperature range (−20 to 65 °C) and conformally deform more than 1000 times without peeling off. Furthermore, by exploiting surface‐adaptive adhesion, high transparency and good stretchability of the eutectogel, dual encryption can be achieved under UV and stretching conditions to further improve the security level. This study should provide a promising strategy for the future development of advanced intelligent anti‐counterfeiting materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Imitating mechano‐sensing luminescence of organisms has long been envisaged to achieve dynamic and real‐time visualized information display, however, it remains challenging to recreate the skin‐like visual sensation functions in artificial sensors. Here, a bioinspired mechanosensor is presented with mechanoluminescent/triboelectric hierarchical structure that is capable of pressure perception and patterning display in real time. Interestingly, a facilitative effect of interfacial triboelectric field on luminescent output and pressure visualization was found. The developed mechanosensor shows self‐powered, bimodal, and real‐time patterning sensation behavior with a low force detection limit (0.082 N), high sensitivity (9.69 a.u. N−1), fast response (35 ms), and good reliability (5000 cycles). On this basis, an intelligent control system is further constructed via combining image machine learning approach. This study not only addresses the long‐lasting challenge of real‐time pressure visualized display, but also boosts the further development of untethered, small‐scale, and efficient intelligent systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: A fully self-powered bimodal sensor is designed for patterned-displaying the force trajectories. Outstanding mechanoluminescence is achieved with a stimulation force as low as 0.3 N and 2000 cycles reproducibility. The designed bimodal sensor exhibits good potential for handwriting input to achieve visual intelligent control. Self-powered flexible devices with skin-like multiple sensing ability have attracted great attentions due to their broad applications in the Internet of Things (IoT). Various methods have been proposed to enhance mechano-optic or electric performance of the flexible devices; however, it remains challenging to realize the display and accurate recognition of motion trajectories for intelligent control. Here, we present a fully self-powered mechanoluminescent-triboelectric bimodal sensor based on micro-nanostructured mechanoluminescent elastomer, which can patterned-display the force trajectories. The deformable liquid metals used as stretchable electrode make the stress transfer stable through overall device to achieve outstanding mechanoluminescence (with a gray value of 107 under a stimulus force as low as 0.3 N and more than 2000 cycles reproducibility). Moreover, a microstructured surface is constructed which endows the resulted composite with significantly improved triboelectric performances (voltage increases from 8 to 24 V). Based on the excellent bimodal sensing performances and durability of the obtained composite, a highly reliable intelligent control system by machine learning has been developed for controlling trolley, providing an approach for advanced visual interaction devices and smart wearable electronics in the future IoT era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artificial materials with biomimic self‐healing ability are fascinating, however, the balance between mechanical properties and self‐healing performance is always a challenge. Here, a robust, highly stretchable self‐healing elastomer with dynamic reversible multi‐networks based on polyurethane matrix and cyclodextrin‐assembled nanosheets is proposed. The introduction of cyclodextrin nano‐assemblies with abundant surface hydroxyl groups not only forms multiple interfacial hydrogen bonding but also enables a strain‐induced reversible crystalline physical network owing to the special nanoconfined effect. The formation and dissociation of a dynamic crystalline physical network under stretching–releasing cycles skillfully balance the contradiction between mechanical robustness and self‐healing ability. The resulting nanocomposites exhibit ultra‐robust tensile strength (40.5 MPa), super toughness (274.7 MJ m−3), high stretchability (1696%), and desired healing efficiency (95.5%), which can lift a weight ≈ 100 000 times their own weight. This study provides a new approach to the development of mechanically robust self‐healing materials for engineering applications such as artificial muscles and healable robots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Large amounts of dredged sediment have been produced from dredging projects worldwide, and utilizing it as a resource has become particularly important. This work improved the dredged sediment using biochar (BC), humic acid (HA), and desulfurized gypsum (DG) to restore wetland substrate. The effects of different amendments, applied alone or in combination, on the physicochemical properties and nutrient contents of the dredged sediment were analyzed. The improvement effects were evaluated through reed planting experiments for three months. The results indicated that BC significantly improved the plant nutrient indicator of the dredged sediment. HA reduced the BD and pH of the dredged sediment and increased its contents of various nutrients. DG enhanced the physical indicators of the dredged sediment and could be considered for dredged sediment with high nutrient contents. The two-way ANOVA results indicated that the H3 (BC-6% + HA-6% + DG-10%) combined amendment treatment group showed the optimal improvement effect on the dredged sediment. In the reed planting experiments, the average plant height and average growth rate in the H9 (BC-6% + HA-4% + DG-20%) combined amendment treatment group were the maximum, reaching 45.18 cm and 0.486 cm/d, respectively. This work is expected to raise awareness of the need to utilize marine dredged sediments as resources. [Display omitted] • BC decreases 27.00% BD and increases 23.99-fold OM, 3.08-fold AP and 7.24-fold AK. • DG decreases 1.72 units pH and performs 2.76-fold increase in electrical conductivity. • HA increases 4.98-fold cation exchange capacity and 1.68-fold hydrolyzable nitrogen. • A-5 group germination number and C-4 group total biomass both reach maximum. • H9 group, A-5 group and H3 group show maximum average plant height at high, medium and low water levels, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stimulus‐responsive materials with designable integrated functions bridge the intelligent systems in future lifestyles with the Internet of Things (IoT). The growing trend for IoT and corresponding advanced devices will involve a great number of electronic disposables, which may place heavy burdens on the environment. Here, an elaborately designed multistage responsive material is reported for real‐time, reversible light‐writing based on organized stage‐by‐stage responsive behaviors and polarity‐dependent physicochemical fluorescence response, where the stimulus is accurately delivered through a completely reversible "light‐heat‐fluorescence" pathway. The resulted materials can be pollution‐freely written by hand‐controlled near‐infrared laser within 5 s, spontaneously erased within 20 s, and exhibit excellent re‐writing ability (more than 5000 times while the variance of chromaticity coordinates <0.0008), which is difficult to achieve by traditional laser writing technologies. This study is a step toward high‐performance long‐life functional devices based on reversible multistage responsive materials for future IoT lifestyles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combination of complex perception, defense, and camouflage mechanisms is a pivotal instinctive ability that equips organisms with survival advantages. The simulations of such fascinating multi‐stimuli responsiveness, including thigmotropism, bioluminescence, color‐changing ability, and so on, are of great significance for scientists to develop novel biomimetic smart materials. However, most biomimetic color‐changing or luminescence materials can only realize a single stimulus‐response, hence the design and fabrication of multi‐stimuli responsive materials with synergistic color‐changing are still on the way. Here, a bioinspired multi‐stimuli responsive actuator with color‐ and morphing‐change abilities is developed by taking advantage of the assembled cellulose nanocrystals‐based cholesteric liquid crystal structure and its water/temperature response behaviors. The actuator exhibits superfast, reversible bi‐directional humidity and near‐infrared (NIR) light actuating ability (humidity: 9 s; NIR light: 16 s), accompanying with synergistic iridescent appearance which provides a visual cue for the movement of actuators. This work paves the way for biomimetic multi‐stimuli responsive materials and will have a wide range of applications such as optical anti‐counterfeiting devices, information storage materials, and smart soft robots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The combination of complex perception, defense, and camouflage mechanisms is a pivotal instinctive ability that equips organisms with survival advantages. The simulations of such fascinating multi‐stimuli responsiveness, including thigmotropism, bioluminescence, color‐changing ability, and so on, are of great significance for scientists to develop novel biomimetic smart materials. However, most biomimetic color‐changing or luminescence materials can only realize a single stimulus‐response, hence the design and fabrication of multi‐stimuli responsive materials with synergistic color‐changing are still on the way. Here, a bioinspired multi‐stimuli responsive actuator with color‐ and morphing‐change abilities is developed by taking advantage of the assembled cellulose nanocrystals‐based cholesteric liquid crystal structure and its water/temperature response behaviors. The actuator exhibits superfast, reversible bi‐directional humidity and near‐infrared (NIR) light actuating ability (humidity: 9 s; NIR light: 16 s), accompanying with synergistic iridescent appearance which provides a visual cue for the movement of actuators. This work paves the way for biomimetic multi‐stimuli responsive materials and will have a wide range of applications such as optical anti‐counterfeiting devices, information storage materials, and smart soft robots. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accurate monitoring of respiratory events and human motion states holds paramount importance in the realm of health surveillance and disease prognostication. An exquisitely precise, multifaceted, portable, and environmentally resilient sensor designed for health monitoring would undeniably be of utmost desirability, despite its persisting as a formidable challenge. Here, we propose a breath monitoring and posture recognition system that utilizes hydrogel electrolytes based on polyvinyl alcohol, sodium alginate, and starch, suitable for supercapacitors and multimodal wearable sensors. The multimodal smart sensors can independently detect mechanical and thermal changes through the output signals of capacitance and resistance, respectively. Moreover, we have cultivated an artificial neural network to achieve a finger-pressing posture recognition accuracy of up to 99.259%. Our hydrogel sensors have also been successfully employed in the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. The flexible electronic device derived from this study exhibit a plethora of functionalities, thereby affording a novel perspective for the design and fabrication of advanced flexible electronic contrivances that find applications across diverse domains such as medicine and virtual reality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a high-proportion dual bismuth-based Z-scheme Bi 3 O 4 Cl/Bi 2 MoO 6 photocatalytic system was constructed via the in-situ growth of Bi 2 MoO 6 on Bi 3 O 4 Cl for enhanced visible-light driven photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants in wastewater. The effects of the particle ratio of Bi 3 O 4 Cl and Bi 2 MoO 6 , organic pollutant initial concentration, catalyst dosage, visible-light irradiation time, degradation kinetics and reused times on the photocatalytic activity of the Z-scheme Bi 3 O 4 Cl/Bi 2 MoO 6 photocatalyst were investigated. Moreover, the study compares the photocatalytic degradation extents of norfloxacin, tetracycline, crystal violet, acridine orange and methylene blue using the Z-scheme Bi 3 O 4 Cl/Bi 2 MoO 6 photocatalyst, and proposes a possible mechanism on the Z-scheme Bi 3 O 4 Cl/Bi 2 MoO 6 photocatalytic system. The results indicate that the high-proportion dual bismuth-based Z-scheme Bi 3 O 4 Cl/Bi 2 MoO 6 photocatalyst performs superior photocatalytic activity at a 1.0:1.0 particle ratio. The fuzzy contact interfaces can be formed between Bi 2 MoO 6 and Bi 3 O 4 Cl nanoparticles due to the direct in-situ growth of Bi 2 MoO 6 on Bi 3 O 4 Cl, which can provide channels for the photo-generated electron transfer to construct the Z-scheme Bi 3 O 4 Cl/Bi 2 MoO 6 photocatalytic system. After five cycles, the Z-scheme Bi 3 O 4 Cl/Bi 2 MoO 6 photocatalyst maintains high photocatalytic performance. During the photocatalytic degradation, the photo-generated holes play dominant roles, while the contributions of superoxide radical and hydroxyl radical remain approximate. Thus, this photocatalytic technology displays promising application prospects for handling organic contaminants, including antibiotics and dyes, in wastewater. [Display omitted] • Dual bismuth-based Z-scheme photocatalyst is constructed by in-situ synthesis. • High-proportion Z-scheme Bi 3 O 4 Cl/Bi 2 MoO 6 photocatalyst enhances activity. • Fuzzy contact interfaces among nanoparticles promote photo-induced e - transfer. • Bi 3 O 4 Cl/Bi 2 MoO 6 is used to degrade emerging organic pollutants under visible-light. • Bi 3 O 4 Cl/Bi 2 MoO 6 photocatalyst has high recycling efficiency and good stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intelligent composite materials and devices are attracting a great interest owing to their potential impact on various future life applications. To meet the growing demand for multifunctional materials, the development and validation of visible sensing behavior is highly desirable, but the development of a single multifunctional wearable sensing material still remains a challenge to be achieved. To reach this goal, here we present a wearable intelligent fabric with piezoresistivity and mechanoluminescence ability based on a layer-structured graphene-based conductive cotton fabric and SrAl 2 O 4 :Eu2+, Dy3+/polyurethane foamed coating. The presence of the foamed coating structure endows the flexible composite fabric with a controllable positive/negative piezoresistivity (gauge factor from −2.5 to 17) and a bright mechanoluminescence ability that can be used in the darkness without additional batteries. Three-dimensional chromaticity diagrams have also been developed as advanced tools to quantitatively assess the luminescence, whose lightness, during the bending cycles, is highly repeatable with value in the range from ∼25 to ∼55. The multifunctional layered composite sensor provides multiple output signals which can be accurately recognized and assigned to independent triggering events, opening up new opportunities in advanced wearable devices based on commercial fabrics. A multifunctional wearable sensor based on a layered structure consisting of a rGO modified commercial cotton fabric coated with a mechanoluminescent PU foamed coating has been developed. As a benefit for the foamed coating structure, the resulting composites exhibit a controllable positive/negative responsive behavior which can also be used in the darkness without battery owing to its mechanoluminescence. The developed multifunctional composite is expected to meet the increasing demand of advanced intelligent devices. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • An immobilized and forced Z-scheme nanocomposite film photocatalyst is prepared. • H 2 and CO 2 can be directly separated during reactions using nanocomposite film. • Ag|AgNbO 3 /Ag/Er3+:YAlO 3 @Nb 2 O 5 nanocomposite film enhances photocatalytic activity. • Ag nanoparticle produces SPR effect promoting photo-generated e - transfer. • Er3+:YAlO 3 converts low energy light to UV–vis light with high energy. An immobilized and forced Z-scheme Ag|AgNbO 3 /Ag/Er3+:YAlO 3 @Nb 2 O 5 nanocomposite film photocatalyst is prepared via sol–gel spin coating and photoreduction technologies, and applied in solar photocatalytic removal of auramine O and synchronous evolution of pure hydrogen. An immobilized reactor with the nanocomposite film is designed to realize the photocatalytic oxidation and reduction on both sides of the Ag foil as carrier, respectively. The mechanism on the immobilized and forced Z-scheme Ag|AgNbO 3 /Ag/Er3+:YAlO 3 @Nb 2 O 5 photocatalytic system is proposed. The results indicate that pure hydrogen can be directly produced on the surface of the Ag foil. The 318.37 μmol pure hydrogen can be collected at 84.90 mmol/h · m2, and 92.72 % degradation of 10 mg/L auramine O can be obtained under 180 min sunlight irradiation. Ag|AgNbO 3 /Ag/Er3+:YAlO 3 @Nb 2 O 5 nanocomposite film also possesses high recycling capacity. This photocatalytic technology performs good application prospects in organic wastewater purification and hydrogen energy development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Z-scheme photocatalysts can be prepared through combining two suitable photocatalyst monomers, but the contact interfaces between two nanoparticles are generally formed. The lattice mismatches and defects are often present on the contact interface, which is not conducive to the photo-induced electron transfer. Consequently, in this work, a novel high-proportion ternary dual Z-scheme Co 3 O 4 /NiCo 2 O 4 /NiO photocatalyst is prepared via incomplete solid phase chemical reactions of Co(OH) 2 and Ni(OH) 2. In this way, the formed perfect interfaces between Co 3 O 4 and NiCo 2 O 4 and between NiCo 2 O 4 and NiO may significantly facilitate the photo-induced electron transfer. For estimating the activity of the prepared samples, the experiments of photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) with simultaneous hydrogen production are carried out. The influences of Ni(OH) 2 and Co(OH) 2 M proportion, calcination temperature and calcination time on the activity of the prepared samples are researched. Besides, the stability and recycling capacity of the Co 3 O 4 /NiCo 2 O 4 /NiO photocatalyst are assessed by four cycle experiments. A mechanism on MB photocatalytic degradation with simultaneous hydrogen production caused by high-proportion ternary dual Z-scheme Co 3 O 4 /NiCo 2 O 4 /NiO photocatalyst is proposed. It is hoped that this work can provide some valuable ideas on preparation of new-style photocatalysts for efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants with synchronous hydrogen production. • Incomplete solid phase reaction generates a high-proportion Z-scheme photocatalyst. • Perfect contact interfaces among particles promote the photo-induced e− transfer. • Dual Z-scheme Co 3 O 4 /NiCo 2 O 4 /NiO structure provides two active oxidation surfaces. • Use of organic pollutant as sacrifice agent promotes photocatalytic H 2 production. • High-proportion dual Z-scheme Co 3 O 4 /NiCo 2 O 4 /NiO photocatalyst is easily recycled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fiber‐based multimodal sensors with electrical/optical signals are highly desired for next‐generation wearable electronics. Despite the remarkable progress in this area, achieving large‐scale knittable, washable, and self‐healing performance in fiber‐based multimodal sensors simultaneously remains a great challenge. Here, a smart fiber capable of exhibiting piezoresistive/luminescent properties based on an H‐bonding connected multilayered core–shell nanostructure is developed. The core principle of this design involves constructing strong interfacial interactions between the fiber layers, which results in a sensor with high sensitivity (gauge factor = 12383500), exceptional water resistance, and robust self‐healing properties (tensile strength 30.9 MPa, healing efficiency 72.9%). Unlike traditional fiber‐based sensors where elaborate nanostructures are prone to shedding during knitting, this strategy enables the fiber sensors with excellent knittability to be patterned in the fabric, improving both optical and electrical sensitivities. This work is anticipated to make a significant contribution to the further development of wearable electronic products and visual human–computer interaction electronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel fixed Z-scheme Ag|AgBr/Ag/TiO 2 photocatalyst composite film is prepared by continuous ion layer adsorption and sol-gel spin coating methods. Meanwhile, an immobilized reactor that can realize the separate collection of H 2 and CO 2 is also designed. The activity of the samples is evaluated through MG photocatalytic degradation with simultaneous hydrogen production. Some influence factors, AgBr film layer number, Ag foil thickness and TiO 2 film layer number, are investigated on the activity of fixed Z-scheme Ag|AgBr/Ag/TiO 2 photocatalyst composite film. The contribution of Ag SPR effect is also researched. The effects of irradiation time, MG concentration and used times are examined for searching optimum experiment conditions. A possible mechanism on MG photocatalytic degradation with simultaneous hydrogen production is proposed. It is wished that this work can provide a new idea in preparation of immobilized Z-scheme photocatalysts for efficiently degrading organic pollutants with simultaneous H 2 production. Image 1 • The fixed Z-scheme Ag.|AgBr/Ag/TiO 2 photocatalyst can realize pure H 2 production. • A fixed Z-scheme Ag.|AgBr/Ag/TiO 2 photocatalytic H 2 production reactor is designed. • The occurrence of SPR effect of Ag nanoparticles inhibits e− and h+ recombination. • Malachite green dye is used as a sacrifice agent for photocatalytic H 2 production. • Fixed Z-scheme Ag.|AgBr/Ag/TiO 2 photocatalyst composite film can be easily recycled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Scalable preparation of self-healing elastomers based on natural rubber. • Reversible ionic crosslinking results in excellent self-healing performance. • Nanostructured conductive network endows the sensor with high sensitivity. Flexible sensors which can recognize mechanical deformations have a great potential for next-generation smart devices. However, the defects of complicated fabrication steps, high cost and easily damaged gravely hinder their large-scale applications. Herein, we present a facile method to fabricate self-healing, highly sensitive strain sensors based on brominated natural rubber through ionically cross-linking and nanostructure design. The strong ionic bonding interaction of the components enables the elastomer with fast healing time (~10 s for mechanical healing and ~2 s for electrical healing) and satisfactory self-healing efficiency (93.98%). Furthermore, the designed nanostructured conductive network endows the sensor with high electrical sensitivity (GF ≈ 127) to realize the detection of both large- and small-strain human motions. This work provides great possibilities for the design and scalable manufacture of self-healing elastomers and wearable electronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, a ternary annular two Z -scheme and one Heterojunction photocatalyst, Δ(2Z + 1H)-scheme CuO/WO 3 /CdS/, was successfully prepared using hydrothermal and isoelectric point methods. The samples are characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, EDX, XPS, DRS, PL and electrochemical tests. The photocatalytic activity is investigated through the photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants with simultaneous hydrogen production. The ternary Δ(2Z + 1H)-scheme CuO/WO 3 /CdS/ photocatalyst exhibited an optimum activity, compared with CuO/WO 3 , CdS/WO 3 and CuO/CdS, which is attributed to the construction of the ternary annular (2Z + 1H)-scheme structure. It can effectively promote the separation of photo-induced electrons and holes and increase the utilization efficiency of light. In addition, the stability is tested by four cycle experiments. It is wished that this study could provide a promising pathway for effective degradation of organic pollutants with simultaneous and rapid hydrogen production. A ternary annular two Z-scheme and one Heterojunction photocatalyst, Δ(2Z+1H)-scheme CuO/WO 3 /CdS/, was successfully prepared by using hydrothermal and isoelectric point methods. The photocatalytic activity is investigated through the photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants with simultaneous hydrogen production. The ternary Δ(2Z+1H)-scheme CuO/WO 3 /CdS/ photocatalyst exhibited a optimum activity, compared with CuO/WO 3 , CdS/WO 3 and CuO/CdS, which is attributed to the construction of the ternary annular (2Z+1H)-scheme structure. It can effectively promote the separation of photo-induced electrons and holes and increase the utilization efficiency of light. It is wished that this study could provide a promising pathway for effective degradation of organic pollutants with simultaneous rapid hydrogen production. Unlabelled Image • A novel photocatalyst is constructed by combining Z-scheme and Heterojunction. • A ternary Δ(2Z + 1H) CuO/WO 3 /CdS/ composite is prepared via isoelectric point way. • A novel electron and hole transfer route is proposed in this photocatalytic system. • Heterojunction is used to assist Z-scheme to inhibit the recombination of e− and h+. • Solar light utilization can be enhanced in ternary Δ(2Z + 1H) CuO/WO 3 /CdS/ composite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics are of increasing environmental concern as emerging contaminants worldwide. However, very limited studies are focused on the treatment of microplastics based on material design. Here, we propose a cut‐from‐the‐source strategy through incorporating graphene nanosheets (GNs) into thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) to prepare high performance composites via melt‐processing. The effects and mechanism of GNs on microplastics release of TPU are first investigated. Benefiting from the barrier effect of GNs and the strong interfacial interaction, microplastics release of the obtained composites is effectively inhibited during oxidative degradation and the mechanical properties are simultaneously enhanced. This work provides a novel strategy for the source reduction of microplastics, inspiring the microplastics governance in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wearable strain sensors have been attracting increased interest in human motion detection. To meet the demands of complex realistic situations, directed elaborate nanostructure design is indispensable. However, the lack of an efficient numerical calculation method for the prediction and analysis of resistance-strain response behavior greatly restricts sensors' applications. In this work, a numerical calculation method based on Breadth-First Searching of nanostructured Conductive Network Paths (BFS-CNP) is demonstrated to precisely analyze the relationship between nanostructure and strain sensitivity. The multilayer-segregated structure was applied to illustrate how the numerical system works in the analysis of structure design and prediction of sensing performance. Strain sensors with different strain-sensing performances are developed under the guidance of the numerical calculation method for different applications, such as grasping and pronunciations. This work gives valuable guidance for the numerical analysis of nanostructures and provides critical insight into the nanostructure design for flexible strain sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was designed to investigate the roles of autophagy in the attenuation of hepatic lipid accumulation after sleeve gastrectomy (SG). Thirty-two rats were divided into normal control, obesity group, sham group, and SG group. Then serum glucagon-like polypeptide-1 (GLP-1) and lipid accumulation were determined, followed by measuring the activity of autophagy based on immunohistochemistry (IHC) and Western blot analysis. Our data showed significant decrease in the lipid accumulation after SG compared with sham group. GLP-1 and autophagy showed significant increase in rats underwent SG compared with the sham group (P < 0.05). In vitro experiments were conducted to analyze the roles of GLP-1 in autophagy. We knock-downed the expression of Beclin-1 in HepG2, and then analyzed the expression of autophagy-related protein (i.e. LC3BII and LC3BI) and lipid droplet accumulation. In HepG2 cells, GLP-1 analog reduced lipid accumulation by activating autophagy through modulating the AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway. All these concluded that SG decreased hepatic lipid accumulation by inducing autophagy through modulating AMPK/mTOR pathway. • The lipid accumulation was significantly reduced in obese rats after SG. • The plasma GLP-1 level and autophagy showed significant increase in rats after SG. • GLP-1 reduced fat load by activating autophagy through modulating AMPK/mTOR pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Currently, the scientific community has spent a lot of effort in developing "green" and environmentally friendly processes and products, due the contemporary problems connected to pollution and climate change. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are at the forefront of current research due to their multifunctional characteristics of biocompatibility, high mechanical properties, specific surface area, tunable surface chemistry and renewability. However, despite these many advantages, their inherent hydrophilicity poses a substantial challenge for the application of CNCs as a reinforcing filler in polymers, as it complicates their dispersion in hydrophobic polymeric matrices, such as polyurethane foams, often resulting in aggregate structures that compromise their properties. The manipulation and fine-tuning of the interfacial properties of CNCs is a crucial step to exploit their full potential in the development of new materials. In this respect, starting from an aqueous dispersion of CNCs, two different strategies were used to properly functionalize fillers: (i) freeze drying, solubilization in DMA/LiCl media and subsequent grafting with bio-based polyols; (ii) solvent exchange and subsequent grafting with bio-based polyols. The influence of the two functionalization methods on the chemical and thermal properties of CNCs was examined. In both cases, the role of the two bio-based polyols on filler functionalization was elucidated. Afterwards, the functionalized CNCs were used at 5 wt% to produce bio-based composite polyurethane foams and their effect on the morphological, thermal and mechanical properties was examined. It was found that CNCs modified through freeze drying, solubilization and bio-polyols grafting exhibited remarkably higher thermal stability (i.e., degradation stages > 100 °C) with respect to the unmodified freeze dried-CNCs. In addition, the use of the two grafting bio-polyols influenced the functionalization process, corresponding to different amount of grafted-silane-polyol and leading to different chemico-physical characteristics of the obtained CNCs. This was translated to higher thermal stability as well as improved functional and mechanical performances of the produced bio-based composite PUR foams with respect of the unmodified CNCs-composite ones (the best case attained compressive strength values three times more). Solvent exchange route slightly improved the thermal stability of the obtained CNCs; however; the so-obtained CNCs could not be properly dispersed within the polyurethane matrix, due to filler aggregation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An integrated yarn based on the spandex/helical copper wire @ polyester (CNTs) is prepared. • The yarn has high conductivity, stretchability and compressive sensing. • The yarn has ability to monitoring changes of wind power. • The sensitivity to vertical stress makes the yarn protect precision equipment. The multi-scale structure of yarns and fabrics is expected to provide unlimited possibilities for the integration of different performances and functions, which is expected to open up new opportunities for more complex and variable intelligent scenarios in the future. However, how to customize multi-functions through effective regulation and stabilization of several different units and composites in a highly integrated way still remains a great challenge. Herein, a torsional highly-integrated yarn with outstanding orientation selective sensing ability and robustness was achieved through a large-scale multi-unit friction spinning technology. Owing to the cooperative torsion structure of core layer (highly-stretchable spandex), middle layer (tight helical conductive metal wire) and the shell layer (polyester microfiber network massively composite with carbon nanotubes), the integrated yarn possesses outstanding orientation selective sensing ability. Different from directly coating strategies, the multilayer yarns with tight helical metal wire could be reversibly stretched up to 300 % with an almost consistent resistance (only varies 2.11 %), while which is highly sensitive to the vertical stress (5 kPa with 98.4 %) owing to the series–parallel behaviors between different layers. The sensitivity of the developed yarn in wind and sand monitoring and friction collision sensing endows it with a broad application prospect for protecting and early warning of human body and precision equipment. This work may provide a valuable integrated-solution for future intelligent fabric design for complex scenes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The plateau zokor is an endemic, subterranean rodent native to the Tibetan Plateau. Its burrowing activity results in numerous bare mounds on the ground. These mounds interfere with plant community succession, affect carbon sequestration, reduce grazing areas, and intensify soil erosion, thus serving as key visual indicators of the zokor's ecological disturbances. Conventional views suggest that zokors primarily dig tunnels and then create mounds for mating and food storage in spring and autumn, respectively. Consequently, former studies have focused on mound creations only during these two periods. However, we found that plateau zokors also create mounds during the summer in the summer pastures. We designed experiments to investigate the environmental variables associated with this summer mound-creating phenomenon, and the results indicate that this behavior is closely related to reduced vegetation biomass and nutrition in summer pastures. We further assessed the nutrition of plants and discovered that increasing mounding activity by zokors in summer corresponds with a decline in plant root quality, including reductions in crude protein, fats, and sugars, as well as fiber contents. Utilizing a random forest model, we found that the decrease in crude protein in plant roots as the principal factor influencing zokor mound creation in summer. These findings offer important insights for developing adaptive management strategies for alpine grasslands and assessing the environmental impact of the plateau zokor in alignment with the different grazing regimes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Autoclave-mediated route was used for reducing graphene oxide. • The steam-based process is greener and scalable. • Firm, self-standing, electrically conductive films were obtained. • Correlation between initial GO and final rGO properties was found. A highly efficient and environmentally friendly method for producing high-quality reduced graphene oxide (rGO) films is explored. It consists of a scalable autoclave process devoid of hazardous reductants. In detail, the reduction of four distinct graphene oxide materials, whose O/C ratio varied from 0.28 to 0.58, through an autoclave-mediated hydrothermal process at 200 °C and 12 bars pressure is carried out. This employs overheated steam as a heat carrier, without any additional solvents or reducing agents. Upon mild annealing (80 °C), the final rGO films result being robust, self-supporting, and electrically conductive. This study investigates the impact of both the initial GO's oxidation degree and the volume distribution on the efficacy of the hydrothermal process in synthesizing rGO systems. Furthermore, a comparison between films, created through both hydrothermal autoclave-mediated and thermal oven-mediated methods, is conducted, by assessing their electrical, morphological, chemical, and structural properties. Films produced via the autoclave method display notably improved electrical surface resistivity (3.34·102 Ω/sq) compared to the traditional thermal treatments (6.71·105 Ω/sq). These promising results emphasize the potential of this eco-friendly route as a foundation for scalable and sustainable fabrication of valuable graphene-based conductive materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high proportion of Z-scheme Er3+:Y 3 Al 5 O 12 @Nb 2 O 5 /Pt/In 2 O 3 composite photocatalyst was successfully prepared by coating-demoulding (C-D) method for the first time. The C-D Z-scheme Er3+:Y 3 Al 5 O 12 @Nb 2 O 5 /Pt/In 2 O 3 composite has a high photocatalytic hydrogen production activity. When the heat-treated temperature and time are 500 °C and 1.0 h, respectively, the obtained Z-scheme Er3+:Y 3 Al 5 O 12 @Nb 2 O 5 /Pt/In 2 O 3 composite displays the highest photocatalytic activity. The presence of Pt nanoparticles enables electrons on the conduction band of Nb 2 O 5 to quickly transfer to the valence band of In 2 O 3 and then combine with the holes. And that, the Er3+:Y 3 Al 5 O 12 can absorb visible-lights and convert them into ultraviolet-lights to activate the wide band-gap Nb 2 O 5 semiconductor. • Z-scheme Er:Y 3 Al 5 O 12 @Nb 2 O 5 /Pt/In 2 O 3 photocatalyst is obtained by coat-demoulding. • Er:Y 3 Al 5 O 12 converts visible-light into UV-light to activate wide band-gap Nb 2 O 5. • Fixed Pt particles between Nb 2 O 5 and In 2 O 3 effectively promote electron transfer. • Combination of Nb 2 O 5 and In 2 O 3 widens Z-scheme photocatalyst light-response range. Although the Z-scheme photocatalysts have high photocatalytic activity, it is difficult to obtain a high proportion of Z-scheme photocatalytic system. In this paper, it is reported for the first time that a high proportion of Z-scheme Er3+:Y 3 Al 5 O 12 @Nb 2 O 5 /Pt/In 2 O 3 composite photocatalyst can be prepared by coating-demoulding (C-D) method. In this Z-scheme photocatalyst, Pt nanoparticles as conductive channels are fixed between Er3+:Y 3 Al 5 O 12 @Nb 2 O 5 and In 2 O 3. Er3+:Y 3 Al 5 O 12 as up-conversion luminescence agent can provide enough ultraviolet-lights to activate wide band-gap Nb 2 O 5. The as-prepared samples are characterized by X-ray diffractometer (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), fourier transform infrared spectra (FT-IR), photoluminescence (PL) spectra and related electrochemical tests. Further, the effects of heat-treatment temperature, heat-treatment time and used times on the photocatalytic hydrogen production activity of C-D Z-scheme Er3+:Y 3 Al 5 O 12 @Nb 2 O 5 /Pt/In 2 O 3 composite are studied in detail. The experimental results showed that the photocatalytic activity of C-D Z-scheme Er3+:Y 3 Al 5 O 12 @Nb 2 O 5 /Pt/In 2 O 3 composite is the highest in photocatalytic hydrogen production when heat-treatment temperature and time are 500 °C and 1.0 h, respectively, and that the high photocatalytic activity can be maintained within four cycles. It can be confirmed that the C-D method can effectively combine different photocatalyst particles in predicted order, greatly enhancing the proportion of highly active Z-scheme photocatalyst particles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Developed an effective strategy to achieve high-strength self-healing elastomer. • The TA-modified MXene is self-assembled in the matrix to form a network structure. • MXene networks impart composites with efficient photothermal conversion efficiency. • The prepared flexible actuator can realize actions such as crawling and grabbing. Self-healing ability is highly desired for flexible actuators that operate in dynamic and real-world environments, as these machines are vulnerable to mechanical damage. However, self-healing properties and mechanical strength are often difficult to combine at the same time. We report a synergistic enhancement strategy based on the ordered micro-nano structure and interfacial hydrogen bonding aggregation to achieve self-healing elastomer toughening. The hydrogen bonding interaction drives the MXene nanosheet to self-assemble into an interconnected network around the PU latex microsphere. Thanks to the synergy of dynamic physical networks and high-density interfacial hydrogen bonding, the composites with controllable room temperature self-healing efficiency (76.5–95.9%) and tensile strength (17.7–42.6 MPa). Furthermore, the MXene network structure of the composite endows the actuator with an efficient photothermal conversion efficiency, fast responsiveness, and even functional recovery. It is an effective strategy to achieve high-strength self-healing materials through hydrogen bonding connected MXene network and interfacial hydrogen bonding aggregation, which is expected to be applied to other flexible devices, such as flexible sensors and electromagnetic shielding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Laser ablation & organic adsorption to efficiently obtain low-cost ternary biomimetic surface. • Water contact angles increase and slide angles decrease during organic adsorption process. • Heat treatment can shorten the required organic adsorption time after laser ablation. • Nano-particles can drastically reduce the solid–liquid fraction of the surface. Efficiently obtaining ideal superhydrophobic metallic surfaces through traditional laser ablation is still a challenge. Meanwhile, revealing the mechanism of the transition from superhydrophilic to superhydrophobic of laser-ablated metallic surfaces is required. Inspired by the lotus leaf, we fabricated the arrays of micro-protrusions on aluminum substrates by nanosecond laser ablation. A layer of hydrophobic species was formed on the micro-protrusions after organic adsorption process, which promoted the surface to obtain superior superhydrophobic, anti-wetting and self-cleaning properties. The principle of the transition from superhydrophilic to superhydrophobic during heat treatment process was revealed, and how organic adsorption temperature and time affect water contact angle and slide angle was clarified. We found that nano-particles can drastically reduce the solid–liquid fraction of the surface after analysis. The parameters including laser scanning space, organic adsorption time and heat treatment temperature were optimized to realize high-efficient and energy-saving production. Furthermore, superior wetting resistance to various solutions and the self-cleaning property for solid powders were experimentally indicated. Superhydrophobic aluminum surfaces could be efficiently fabricated in several hours without any expensive equipment, complicated process, strict environment and environmentally harmful chemical reagent by the proposed two-step method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A all-solid-state Z-scheme NaNbO 3 -Au-Sn 3 O 4 photocatalyst was successfully prepared. • NaNbO 3 , Au and Sn 3 O 4 form an ideal Z-scheme photocatalytic system. • The Z-scheme NaNbO 3 -Au-Sn 3 O 4 photocatalyst displays an excellent photocatalytic activity. • The NaNbO 3 -Au-Sn 3 O 4 exhibits wonderful recyclability and sustainability for four times cycles. • The photocatalytic degradation pathways and mechanism of carbofuran were put forward. It is first reported that an all-solid-state Z-scheme NaNbO 3 -Au-Sn 3 O 4 nanocomposite photocatalyst can be prepared by ultrasonic dispersion and calcination methods. In NaNbO 3 -Au-Sn 3 O 4 , NaNbO 3 and Sn 3 O 4 form a Z-scheme photocatalytic system, Au as an electron transfer channel accelerates the flow rate of the photo-induced electrons. Their effective combination can not only improve the utilization ratio of sunlight but also achieve the effective segregation of photo-induced electron-hole pairs. The fabricated samples were characterized by XRD, Raman spectra, SEM, TEM, UV–vis DRS, XPS and PL. In addition, the activity of the NaNbO 3 -Au-Sn 3 O 4 photocatalyst was researched via the photocatalytic degradation of carbofuran in wastewater under sunlight irradiation. The sunlight illumination time, NaNbO 3 and Sn 3 O 4 mole ratio, cycle number and pesticides types as influence factors on the photocatalytic degradation efficiency of Z-scheme NaNbO 3 -Au-Sn 3 O 4 photocatalyst are investigated in detail. The possible mechanism and degradation pathways for the photocatalytic degradation of carbofuran caused by Z-scheme NaNbO 3 -Au-Sn 3 O 4 photocatalyst under sunlight irradiation are put forward. The research results show that the all-solid-state Z-scheme NaNbO 3 -Au-Sn 3 O 4 photocatalyst displays a wonderful activity for degradation of carbofuran in wastewater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The recycling and reusing of photocatalysts are vital to large-scale hydrogen production. In this work, for this purpose, a novel fixed Z-scheme TiO 2 |Ti|WO 3 photocatalyst composite film is prepared. TiO 2 and WO 3 films are supported on both sides of a Ti foil by corrosion-calcination and sol-gel spin coating methods, respectively. To evaluate the activity of fixed Z-scheme TiO 2 |Ti|WO 3 photocatalyst composite film, the photocatalytic hydrogen production is carried out in aqueous solution containing methanol. Some influence factors such as Ti foil corrosion times, WO 3 layer number and Ti foil thickness are considered. The results show that the fixed Z-scheme TiO 2 |Ti|WO 3 photocatalyst composite film has a superior photocatalytic performance toward hydrogen production. Under solar light irradiation for 4.0 h, the fixed Z-scheme TiO 2 |Ti|WO 3 photocatalyst composite film gives a 473.2 μmol hydrogen evolution amount, which is much higher than 232.1 μmol of TiO 2 |Ti film and 25.8 μmol of WO 3 |Ti film. It is attributed to that Ti foil as conductive channel accelerates e− transfer and restrains e− and h+ recombination. At the same time, Ti foil as carrier can fix TiO 2 and WO 3 films on its two sides, providing a cyclic utilization way and large-scale hydrogen production possibility. Perhaps, the fixed TiO 2 |Ti|WO 3 composite film will be a promising Z-scheme photocatalyst utilizing solar energy for large-scale hydrogen production. • A novel fixed Z-scheme TiO 2.|Ti|WO 3 photocatalyst composite film is designed firstly. • Z-scheme TiO 2.|Ti|WO 3 photocatalyst film gives a high hydrogen production activity. • Ti foil as conductive channel is firstly applied to Z-scheme photocatalyst design. • TiO 2 film on Ti foil is prepared by direct corrosion and calcination methods. • Fixed Z-scheme TiO 2.|Ti|WO 3 photocatalyst film can be easily recycled and reused. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the tremendous advancement of intelligent robots, it remains a great challenge to integrate living organisms‐like multistimuli responsive actuation and excellent self‐healing ability into one single material system, which will greatly benefit and broaden the development of smart biomimetic materials. Herein, a novel self‐healable multistimuli responsive actuator is developed based on hierarchical structural design and interfacial supramolecular crosslinking. The resulting biomimetic actuator shows a record high photothermal efficiency (ηPT = 79.1%) and thermal conductivity (31.92 W m−1 K−1), and presents a superfast actuating response (near‐infrared light: 0.44 s; magnetic field: 0.36 s). In addition, the supramolecular crosslinking endows excellent self‐healing performance in both mechanical and actuating properties to the material. This biomimetic actuator with its hierarchical structure design provides great potential for various applications, such as artificial muscles, soft robotics, and biomedical microdevices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]