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[Display omitted] • The "fireworks" ignition and combustion of MNPs in EIL under microwave radiation was first realized. • The energetic ionic liquids served as the "central hub" for microwave energy conversion and transmission. • The ignition and combustion performance of MNPs could be modulated by the microwave power. • The controlled combustion of ADN-based propellant under microwave could be realized by introducing Ti NPs. The metal nanoparticles (MNPs) are widely used to improve the output performance of various explosives and propellants, which ignition is an important link for the energy release of fuel. The microwaves have been recognized as a safer and smart ignition method. However, it is difficult to achieve rapid ignition of MNPs under microwave radiation due to the low heating rate. The ADN energetic ionic liquids could efficiently absorb microwaves owing to excellent polarity. This work proposes a method of fast "fireworks" ignition and combustion of MNPs under microwave radiation, by employing ADN as the "central hub" for microwave energy conversion. The dispersion of Al and Ti NPs in ADN endowed the solution with nanofluid properties and significantly improved the thermal conductivity. The solution boiled violently under microwave radiation, causing the temperature of MNPs to rise continuously. Meanwhile, the acidic components produced by ADN pyrolysis destroyed the oxide shell of MNPs, further accelerating the ignition process. The ignition phenomenon of Al and Ti NPs were different due to distinct microwave absorption properties and ignition temperature. When the expanding liquid film broken, the shock wave blew the Al NPs into the air to realize the "fireworks" ignition and combustion. The Ti NPs was ignited in the solution, which further ignited the ADN solution, allowing the system for controllable ignition and combustion. The "fireworks" ignition and combustion performance of MNPs could be modulated by the input microwave power. In summary, the new ignition and combustion method of MNPs will have a profound impact on the design of ignition sequence, the improvement of microwave energy utilization and the expansion of the application of ADN-based liquid propellants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Time-resolved in-situ Mn doping in CeO 2 NPs was investigated using a flow reactor. • Smaller NPs with large lattice distortion have higher Mn intake capacity. • Doped Mn gradually leached out from CeO 2 NPs with particle growth. • Besides kinetic effect, temperature and solvent properties also affect Mn doping. Non-equilibrium elemental doping is important for realizing high-content doping and combining elements with low miscibility. The elemental doping mechanism and kinetics of metal oxide nanoparticles (MO x NPs) are crucial for the design and precise control of the doping process; however, it has not yet been established. Herein, using organic-modified Mn-doped CeO 2 NPs as a model material, a time-resolved investigation was conducted under subcritical/supercritical conditions to elucidate the doping mechanism. Owing to the intensified mass and heat transfer in the continuous flow system, rapid reaction startup and quenching were easily achieved, enabling the intermediates to be captured at times ranging from milliseconds to minutes. The Mn doping content was very high initially and decreased with increasing crystallite size (under subcritical condition, residence time: 0.2 s → 70.1 s, crystallite size: 3.1 nm → 5.3 nm, Mn doping content: 9.8 % → 3.9 %). The particle size and structure effects were further corroborated by analyzing the elemental distribution in small and large particles using high-resolution energy-dispersive spectrometry elemental mapping. The smaller particles exhibited a higher Mn doping content than the larger grown particles. Besides the kinetic effect, process conditions also play a significant role. Transitioning from a thermodynamically non-equilibrium to equilibrium state within tens of seconds, the solubility of Mn in CeO 2 NPs is simultaneously determined by kinetic and thermodynamic factors, including growth time, temperature and solvent/solute properties. These findings, along with the flow synthesis strategy, lay the groundwork for incorporating immiscible or low-miscible elements into the same MO x NPs, tailoring their properties for various real-world applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • ZrO 2 coated with highly dispersed Pt nanoclusters was obtained by one-pot method without using surfactant. • Ethanol can promote the formation of terminal hydroxyl in ZrO 2 , thus facilitating the dispersion of Pt nanoclusters. • ZrO 2 @Pt presented high catalytic efficiency in nitrobenzene hydrogenation at room temperature and ambient pressure. • DRIFTS spectra and DFT calculation verified that the hydrogenation of nitrobenzene proceeds along the condensation route on ZrO 2 @Pt. High dispersion of active metal is an inevitable requirement to improve the catalytic performance of supported metal catalysts and achieving this goal always requires the support with a large specific surface area. Here we innovatively prepared a ZrO 2 @Pt catalyst using ZrO 2 with a small specific surface area as the core which is coated with highly dispersed Pt nanoclusters (<2 nm). In this process, the surface of ZrO 2 was firstly functionalized to increase the number of hydroxyl group, Pt nanoclusters were formed simultaneously and uniformly coated on the ZrO 2 surface. In this work, much attention was paid to the role of 2-[4-(2-hydroxyethyl)-1-piperazinyl] ethanesulfonic acid (HEPES) and ethanol in the one-pot preparation process. The results showed that HEPES acted as a reductant, while treatment with ethanol promoted both the generation of hydroxyl groups on ZrO 2 surface and the reduction of Pt precursor under mild conditions. As-prepared ZrO 2 @Pt catalyst showed excellent catalytic performance in the selective hydrogenation of nitrobenzene; nitrobenzene was completely converted to aniline with 100 % selectivity at room temperature and 8 bar H 2 pressure within 30 min, and the TOF reached as high as 3304 h−1. Moreover, ZrO 2 @Pt also exhibited a good reusability and a broad substrate applicability. The results of both DRIFTS analysis and DFT calculation demonstrated that the hydrogenation of nitrobenzene on ZrO 2 @Pt catalyst followed the condensation reaction pathway. Our findings can provide a new approach to obtaining highly dispersed metal nanoparticles on the support with a small specific surface area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultra-light and flexible X-ray shieling aerogels were rational designed by combining sustainable nanofibers and recyclable metal oxide nanoparticles. The synergistic shielding effect toward X-rays from multilevel reflection and absorption of polymorphic nanoparticles significantly boost the shielding performance of aerogels, and the anisotropic micro-nano structures endow the composite aerogel with superelasticity, antifouling, and air permeability. [Display omitted] • Flexible bacterial cellulose aerogels were designed by ice-template approach. • Multilevel reflection and absorption by dual elements boosts X-ray shielding effect. • The as-designed composite aerogels exhibit superior mass attenuation coefficient. • The ultra-light aerogels show good compression resilience, and low pressure drop. The extensive application of X-rays has catalyzed a significant increase in the demand for secure work attire and safeguarding fabric materials. Nonetheless, the current Pb-infused materials employed for X-ray protection are generally hefty, rigid, and biohazardous, which substantially restrict their utilization in wearable contexts. In this work, a series of sustainable, ultralight, highly elastic and harmless X-ray protection aerogel is demonstrated and structured as a fusion of bacterial cellulose/Bi 2 O 3 nanoparticles and Gd 2 O 3 nanosheets. The cooperative shielding effect against X-rays, resulting from multilevel scattering and absorption by Bi/Gd elements, substantially boosts the protective efficiency of aerogels. Moreover, the polymorphic nanoparticles and robust nanofibrous networks provide these aerogels with exceptional flexibility. The as-designed aerogels exhibit integrated properties of superior mass attenuation coefficient (6.1 cm2 g−1), ultralow density (11.07 mg cm−3), good compression resilience, and low pressure drop (0.2 kPa at 3.0 cm s−1). The rational-designing of such innovative aerogels opens up pathways for the development of future effective and wearable materials for X-ray protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • MXene/metal sodiophilic hosts are constructed via Lewis acidic etching. • Uniform Na nucleation and deposition are afforded for MXene/metal hosts. • The hosts deliver superior asymmetric, symmetric and full cell performance. • The Ti 3 C 2 /Zn host exhibits superior cyclic stability upon a high cutoff potential. Although MXene-based 3D scaffolds have boosted the cyclability of Na metal, the complex and harsh synthetic process deteriorates their practical application. Herein, a series of MXene/metal sodiophilic frameworks are constructed through one-step Lewis acidic etching, and metal nanoparticles are uniformly distributed on the surface or intercalated into the large interlayer gaps of MXenes. Notably, MXenes with superior Na+/electron transport kinetics and mechanical flexibility remarkably reduce the local current density, homogenize Na+ flux and cushion huge volume change of Na metal. Moreover, sodiophilic species including MXenes and metals effectively induce Na uniform nucleation and smooth deposition among the 3D matrixes, leading to dendrite-free morphology. Consequently, MXene/metal hosts exhibit stable Na plating/stripping process for 900 cycles with high average Coulombic efficiencies of 99.9% (2 mA cm−2, 1 mAh cm−2). The MXene/metal-Na symmetric cells achieve low overpotentials of less than 15 mV and stable cycling for 2200 h (2 mA cm−2, 4 mAh cm−2). When paired with Na 3 V 2 (PO 4) 3 cathode, the full cells with a low N/P ratio (around 2) demonstrate high discharge capacity and excellent long-term cyclic performance over 600 cycles. The presented universal, safe and one-step approach in fabricating MXene/metal scaffolds shows bright prospects and may promote the development of alkali metal-based batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • S. oneidensis MR-1 accelerates the corrosion of NF to form metal hydroxides in presence of Fe3+. • The product shows improved OER activity with an overpotential of 0.265 V at 10 mA cm−2. • Ni nanoparticles are synthesized for the first time by reduction of Ni2+ using S. oneidensis MR-1. Shewanella oneidensis is a facultative anaerobe with the ability to use different terminal electron donors and acceptors. Therefore, S. oneidensis can be used either as an oxidizing agent for microbial corrosion of metals or as a reducing agent for microbial synthesis of metal nanoparticles depending on the metal type. Herein, we have shown that S. oneidensis MR-1 can be used for both microbial corrosion of nickel foam (NF) and microbial synthesis of Ni nanoparticles under environmentally benign conditions. It is found that S. oneidensis MR-1 can accelerate the corrosion process to form metal hydroxides on the surface of NF in the presence of Fe3+, and the obtained electrode shows improved electrocatalytic activity toward oxygen evolution reaction with an overpotential of 0.265 V to achieve a current density of 10 mA cm−2. However, the corrosion process of NF by S. oneidensis MR-1 is severely inhibited in the presence of Fe2+. In addition, aside from the corrosion process of NF, we have for the first time shown that Ni nanoparticles can be synthesized by the reduction of Ni2+ ions using S. oneidensis MR-1. The results show that the microbial energy metabolism of S. oneidensis MR-1 facilitates the electron transfer from electron-donating NF to the electron-accepting metal ions (Fe3+, Ni2+) across the microbes, coupling the corrosion process (Ni → Ni2+) and metal ions reductions (Fe3+ → Fe2+, Ni2+ → Ni), which demonstrates great potential for in-situ modification of electrode with microorganism and provides new avenue for electrode fabrication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Structural evolution of CuPd single-particles depended on the reaction conditions. • H 2 -reduction at 873 K led to segregation of Pd atoms over Cu-enriched surface. • Pd atoms and electron-deficient Cu surface synergistically activated H 2 and CO 2. • O-containing species under CO 2 hydrogenation induced Cu migration to form clusters. Encapsulating metal nanoparticles into a porous silica shell, forming a core–shell geometry, has been popularly applied to prevent the particles from sintering at the elevated temperatures and under reactive gases. However, structure evolution of the metal particles under reaction conditions is less known. Here, the dynamic behavior of Cu 3 Pd single-particles, confined by a permeable silica shell, during CO 2 hydrogenation have been examined by microscopic and spectroscopic characterizations. It was found that H 2 -reduction of the bimetallic particle at 673 K led to the partial enrichment of Cu on the surface, while H 2 -treatment at 873 K resulted in the surface segregation of Pd owing to the stronger adsorption of H 2 on Pd. When subjected to CO 2 hydrogenation at 517–673 K, the enriched Pd surface atoms and the electron-deficient Cu atoms synergistically activated H 2 /CO 2 molecules and promoted the activity for the reverse water–gas shift. However, the Cu atoms partially migrated onto the SiO 2 shell and formed tiny Cu clusters, induced by the strong adsorption of O-containing reaction intermediates, forming a core@shell@satellite (CuPd@SiO 2 @Cu) architecture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A microdroplets extraction and separation technique in mini-channel was proposed. • 1 wt% polyvinyl alcohol reduced salt loss during the extraction process to 1.1 wt%. • The size of metal oxides decreased with the increase of precursor concentration. • The size of metal oxides increased with the increase of microdroplets size. • Highly dispersed supported catalyst was fabricated and validated. The microreactor coupled mini-channel microdroplets extraction and separation technology (MES) was developed by adding polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) into microdroplets, realizing the controllable synthesis of a series of mono-component and multi-component metal oxide nano particles (MONPs). A double-layer surfactant structure composed of Span20 (oil phase surfactant) and PVA (water phase surfactant) was designed as a barrier to intercept and collect the precipitated salt at the microdroplet interface, the addition of PVA reduces the loss of salt components during the extraction process from 41.7 wt% to 1.1 wt%. The size control of mono-component MONPs (CuO, Co 3 O 4 , and NiO) was achieved using MES method. Furthermore, in the application direction of preparing multi-component MONPs, the advantages of MES in preparing multi-component catalysts (Ni/CeO 2) were verified. TEM, XRD, H 2 -TPR, CO 2 -TPD, XPS, BET et al. characterizations have shown that Ni entered the lattice of CeO 2 during precipitation to form a Ni-O-Ce solid solution and was therefore highly dispersed in CeO 2. Ni/CeO 2 -MES showed high CO 2 conversion and CO selectivity in reverse water gas shift (RWGS) testing compared to Ni/CeO 2 catalysts prepared by impregnation method which has excellent thermal stability and can maintain over 99 % CO selectivity even after 50 h of reaction at 600 °C. The MES method was proved to be an efficient synthesis technology for MONPs and can be extended to a variety of metal oxides catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A new interfacial engineering strategy to efficiently stabilize liquid metal nanoparticles (LMNPs) is proposed. • A series of novel LMNP-PEDOT:PSS-PVA (LMPP) hydrogels have been developed based on this strategy. • The LMPP hydrogels demonstrate enhanced mechanical, electrical, electromechanical, self-healing and adhesive properties. • The LMPP hydrogels can be used as wearable devices for monitoring various human motions. Conductive hydrogels have received extensive research interest in different application scenarios such as electronic skin, intelligent robotics and health monitoring. However, fabrication of competent conductive hydrogels with high sensing performance, self-healing and adhesion is still hard to achieve yet demanded. Here, we develop a series of novel conductive hydrogels by using poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) to encapsulate liquid metal nanoparticles (LMNPs) in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrixes. Thanks to the participation of PEDOT:PSS in polymeric network, the obtained LMNP-PEDOT:PSS-PVA (LMPP) hydrogels exhibit enhanced tensile strength (0.08 MPa), resilience and high conductivity (4.85 S/m). Besides, the introduction of PEDOT:PSS greatly stabilizes and enriches the LMNP-based conductive paths, therefore improving the strain sensing performance of hydrogels. More intriguingly, the LMPP hydrogels own excellent self-healing and adhesive properties due to the abundance of reversible bonds and functional groups within polymeric network. Leveraging these merits, such LMPP hydrogels can be applied as competent wearable devices for tracking various human motions in real-time, including joint movements and facial expressions. This work offers a new strategy for stabilizing LMNPs in polymeric network, which will contribute to the development of multifunctional conductive hydrogels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The modification of MSI with confinement effect of h-BN was exploited. • The introduction of h-BN in Ni/CeO 2 -BN strengthens the spatial distribution of Ni NPs. • The abundant interfacial sites are confined at h-BN edge sites. • The dispersed Niδ− species on CeO 2 via a unique interfacial structure were constructed. • The interfacial catalytic mechanism of Niδ− and oxygen vacancies proposed. Modulating metal-support interactions is critical for improving catalytic activity and product selectivity for CO 2 hydrogenation. Such modulation can be achieved by modifying the metal nanoparticles as well as the supports. Here, we prepared a novel catalyst, in which Ni nanoparticles were dispersed on CeO 2 and hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) hybrid supports. The introduction of h-BN to Ni/CeO 2 -BN effectively improves the dispersion of Ni nanoparticles. More importantly, the abundant Ni-CeO 2 interfacial sites with enriched oxygen vacancies are formed over h-BN edge sites. The dispersed Ni species are anchored on CeO 2 via a unique interfacial structure, with electron-rich Ni (Niδ−) species. At the interfacial sites on Ni/CeO 2 -BN, the synergy between oxygen vacancies and Niδ−, which enhances CO 2 activation and H 2 dissociation, respectively, renders superior catalytic performance for CO 2 methanation. In situ DRIFTS suggests formate as key rate-limiting intermediates on Ni-CeO 2 sites, while the formation of B-H bonds further promotes hydrogen activation and subsequently the catalytic performance. The modulation of metal-support interactions by spatial confinement effect by BN offers a new paradigm for designing metal/oxide catalysts for chemical transformations that requires bifunctionality as CO 2 hydrogenation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses the challenge of the antioxidant defense system during tumor cell metabolism, which hampers the ferroptosis-mediated anticancer effect, particularly the GSH/GPX4 pathway. This pathway is considered the classic means of scavenging excessive lipid peroxidation production. A highly selective and effective ferroptosis liposomal nanodrug for synergistic antitumor therapy has been designed and constructed. The nanodrug can lead to the accumulation of intracellular ROS and effectively inhibit the activity of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) to block the antioxidant pathway of ferroptosis, synergizing and thereby enhancing ferroptosis therapy. [Display omitted] • Ferroptosis liposomal nanodrug (ipFFR) for enhanced synergistic antitumor therapy was designed. • The ipFFR nanodrug for ferroptosis is capable of both Fenton catalysis and blockading the GSH/GPX4 pathway. • The ipFFR nanodrug leads to the accumulation of intracellular ROS, which further induces the LPO of the cell membrane. • Ferroptosis inducer RSL3 can further enhance the effectiveness of antitumor therapy. Ferroptosis is a recently discovered emerging regulated cell death pattern characterized by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation and has enormous potential in tumor therapy. However, the antioxidant defense system during tumor cell metabolism hampers the ferroptosis-mediated anticancer effect, especially the GSH/GPX4 pathway, which is regarded as the classic means of scavenging excessive lipid peroxidation production. Here, we developed an iron-based nanodrug (ipFFR) with efficient Fenton catalytic activity and encapsulated the ferroptosis inducer RSL3. This formulation consists of Fe@Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles and RSL3, encapsulated in nanoliposomes containing DSPE-PEG-iRGD for precise tumor-targeted delivery of ipFFR. The ultrasmall Fe@Fe 3 O 4 metal nanoparticles were enabled to catalyze endogenous H 2 O 2 and produce toxic •OH under weakly acidic condition and were then quickly excreted from the body. Furthermore, the released ferroptosis inducer RSL3 specifically inhibited the activity of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) to block the antioxidant pathway of ferroptosis, synergizing and thereby enhancing ferroptosis therapy. This study may open up new avenues in designing nanomedicines with synergistic effects to enhance ferroptosis therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• For the first time, a liquid metal-based conductive zwitterionic hydrogel was synthesized as a robust electrochemical sensing substrate in a facile, rapid and low-cost method without the special synthesis of conductive nanofillers and utilization of initiators. • The acquired superhydrophilic zwitterionic hydrogel exhibited a favourable adhesion to the electrode surface, attributed to the sodium alginate encapsulated liquid metal nanoparticles. • Sensitive detection of motilin was achieved in 100 % human serum with a LOD of 8.23 pg mL−1. Any materials present in complex samples that bind the sensing interface non-specifically will greatly decrease the sensitivity and accuracy of the electrochemical sensor. Zwitterionic hydrogel have exhibited extraordinary antifouling ability, but they are limited by the electrical insulativity and weak interface, resulting in a double-edged strategy. Herein, we proposed a novel approach to resolve this challenge thanks to the liquid metal (LM). It was found that with only ultrasonic treatment, a core–shell nanostructure could be easily formed between LM matrix and sodium alginate (SA) polymer, accompanied with the generation of lots of free radical, which initiated the polymerization of zwitterionic monomer and further crosslinking with methylacrylated bovine serum albumin (MBSA). The whole process involved no synthesis of conductive nanomaterials or addition of initiators. Remarkably, the acquired superhydrophilic hydrogel exhibited a surprisingly favourable adhesion to the electrode surface, attributed to the carboxyl groups and related denser gel network resulting from the LM@SA nanoparticles. Finally, the prepared electrochemical immunosensor possessed excellent repeatability, storage stability, selectivity and meanwhile a wide linear range from 10 pg mL−1–100 ng mL−1, and an ultralow detection limit of 8.23 pg mL−1 for the detection of motilin even in 100 % human serum. Moreover, this was a successful attempt of LM-based nanocomposite hydrogel as an electrochemical sensing matrix, and we believe it could present further opportunities toward more satisfying sensing interface for biosensing and bioelectronics with more research in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A hollow porous silica sphere catalyst encapsulating VO x - or MoO x -decorated Pt NPs is developed. • The catalyst exhibits CO 2 conversion of 28.0 % and CO selectivity of nearly 100 % in RWGS reaction at 500 °C. • Reaction is promoted by the synergistic interaction between reducible V oxide and Pt NPs at Pt-VO x interface. • Reaction is presumed to proceed via reverse Mars-van Krevelen mechanism. • High stability over 50 h is achieved in 500 °C owing to the protective effect of silica. Reverse water–gas shift (RWGS) reaction is a desirable strategy for achieving CO 2 utilization and enhancing CO production. Due to the endothermic nature and the chemical equilibrium of this reaction, the reaction is typically conducted at high temperatures (300 ∼ 1000 °C); however, high temperature conditions lead to the sintering of the catalyst, resulting in a catalyst deactivation. Herein we report the synthesis of a metal oxide (V or Mo oxide)-decorated Pt nanoparticles encapsulated in hollow porous silica nanoreactors (HPSNs) by a W/O micro-emulsion system using branched poly(ethyleneimine) (PEI) as a sacrificial metal–ligand. The HPSNs encapsulating VO x -decorated Pt nanoparticles (Pt-VO x @HPSNs) afforded a 1.8-fold increased activity in RWGS reaction at 500 °C compared with Pt@HPSNs with a net CO production rate of 1140.3 mmol/g cat /h and with nearly 100 % CO selectivity. In situ XAFS measurement and reaction kinetic analysis reveal that the interplay of Pt nanoparticles and the decorated V oxide, which simultaneously activate H 2 and CO 2 , respectively, leads to a lowering of the activation energy and a faster CO production rate. Furthermore, the Pt-VO x @HPSNs catalyst retains over 92 % activity after 50 h of continuous operation at 500 °C with the aid of a protective silica shell. This work offers a strategy for the design and development of an efficient and stable heterogeneous catalyst for RWGS reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • First study of MOFs for the recovery of noble metal NPs using a fixed bed column. • Rietveld refinement of the Zr4+-mercaptosuccinate MOF, first time presented here. • Quantitative recovery of both noble metal nanoparticles and ions. • Efficient capture of noble metal nanoparticles and ions from real water samples. The increasing use of nanomaterials in commercial products has raised concerns regarding their potential effects on water quality and living organisms. So far, most sorbents available for removing nanosized inorganic pollutants from water rely on electrostatic interactions or entrapment in the sorbent pores. However, this limits their applicability in real wastewater samples containing nanomaterials with variable surface properties and sizes, along with high concentrations of competitive species such as inorganic salts and organics. Little attention has also been paid to the recovery of nanoparticles after sorption. In this work, a Zr4+-mercaptosuccinate metal organic framework (MOF) with free thiol groups was investigated as a sorbent for the removal of Au nanoparticles and Au3+ ions from water. Sorption occurs on the surface of the MOF via the formation of strong metal-thiolate chemical bonds enabling the fast uptake of noble metal nanoparticles and noble metal ions from water (within <1 h). The maximum sorption capacity was found to depend on the size of the Au nanoparticles and ranged from 8 to 41.5 mg/g. The surface functionalization of nanoparticles did not influence sorption performance, which was also maintained in natural waters of variable matrix complexity. The material was also efficient in fixed bed columns with an estimated maximum Au sorption capacity of approximately 7 mg/g, which is significantly higher than the environmental concentrations of Au nanoparticles and adequate for their removal from industrial wastewater. Importantly, the sorbed nanoparticles could be quantitatively recovered (>90 %), at the expense of material degradation, enabling their potential reuse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • We fabricated multifunctional Silver/silica spheres decorated with CdSe/ZnS QDs. • The composites serve as light-absorbing and PRC layers in CIGS cells. • We successfully created two distinct sizes of Ag NPs embedded in SiO 2 spheres. • Hybrid structures improved colouration and boosted PV performance by 0.5% • Temperature rise of CIGS cells reduced up to 11.5% in off-field scenarios. The integration of solar cells into the architectural design is hindered by challenges such as passive cooling and colouration appeal. The present study proposes an approach to overcome these obstacles by developing colourful solar cells that maintain optimal performance while addressing limitations related to heat accumulation from plasmon metal nanoparticles and quantum dots (QDs). To attain this, silver/silica microsphere composites combined with CdSe/ZnS core/shell QDs are fabricated with two distinct sizes of Ag nanoparticles embedded around SiO 2 microspheres. Upon coating CIGS cells with this hybrid structure, a visually striking vivid green colouration is observed, while ensuring performance efficiency. Furthermore, the radiative cooling capability of these cells is evaluated through indoor and outdoor experiments. Significantly, a substantial temperature reduction of up to 3.2 °C in CIGS cells is achieved when the hybrid structures were applied to the cell's surface under high solar irradiance. The study represents a significant contribution to innovative strategies targeted at achieving passive cooling effect and enhancing aesthetic integration in building-integrated photovoltaics applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• An in-depth overview of interfacial engineering of LMNPs for the fabrication of conductive hydrogels is presented. • Various interfacial stabilizers for encapsulating LMNPs and constructing conductive hydrogels are discussed. • Versatile applications involving LMNPs-based conductive hydrogels are separately described. • Current challenges and future prospects of LMNPs-based conductive hydrogels are proposed. Gallium-based liquid metals (LMs), especially their nanoparticle forms, have emerged as attractive soft fillers for the fabrication of conductive hydrogels owing to their remarkable combination of conductivity, fluidity and biocompatibility. Unfortunately, the large cohesion, high density and low viscosity of these LM nanoparticles (LMNPs) result in poor compatibility with polymer matrixes, making it hard to construct stable LMNPs-based conductive hydrogels. Herein, the interfacial engineering strategies regarding stabilizing LMNPs within hydrogels are briefly reviewed. The fundamental theories about interfacial engineering of LMNPs are firstly discussed. Then, a variety of interfacial stabilizers involved in encapsulating LMNPs and fabricating conductive hydrogels are introduced, highlighting on their interfacial regulating mechanisms. Furthermore, the versatile applications of the resultant LMNPs-based conductive hydrogels including personal healthcare and motion detection, human–machine interfaces, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, etc., are separately described, illustrating their wide range of uses. Finally, the current challenges and future perspectives of these hydrogels are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Self-assembly by electrostatic interaction between silane and MOF ligand. • The activation mechanism of electrochemical inert metal Co in SiO x materials was investigated. • The catalytic action of atomic Co site activates Si O bond and Li O bond to increase SiO x capacity and coulomb efficiency. • High mechanical strength and high conductivity Co nanoparticles enhance the conductivity and cycling stability of SiO x. The ultra-high theoretical capacity of silicon-based (Si) materials makes them promising anode materials for high energy density lithium-ion batteries. Unfortunately, the dramatic volume change (∼300%) and low electrical conductivity of silicon have severely hindered the commercial use of silicon anodes. Silicon suboxide (SiO x) is one of the ideal candidates for high energy density batteries due to its reduced swelling and lower cost as compared to silicon. However, it remains a huge challenge to address the low conductivity, low (initial) coulombic efficiency and apparent volume effects of SiO x. In this paper, SiO x /Co@C composite anode materials loaded with metal Co nanoparticles were uniformly and efficiently prepared by using 3-aminopropyl triethoxysilane (APTES) as silicon source and Co-MOF as Co source via molecular self-assembly strategy. The experimental results and density functional theory (DFT) calculation showed that the catalytic action of embedded Co nanoparticles had activated the silico-oxygen bond of SiO x and the irreversible product Li 2 O, thereby improving the initial coulombic efficiency (ICE) and enhancing the reversible capacity. At the same time, the metal Co with mechanical rigidity and electrical conductivity alleviated the volume fluctuation during alloying and improved the charge transfer capacity and ion transport rate of the composite. When compared with SiO x @C anodes, SiO x /Co@C-600 composites showed higher initial CE, superior cyclic stability and good rate performance. In particular, the successful matching of the anode with the lithium iron phosphate (LFP) cathode in full cell systems validated the possibility of its practical application. This work provides important insights into the application of Si-based materials in lithium-ion battery electrode materials and the development of high energy density batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ru nanoparticles were loaded on brookite TiO 2 exposed with different facets. • Exposing {11 1 ¯ }, {1 2 1}, and {2 1 1} facets improved both activity and selectivity. • The increased medium-strength acid sites contributed to the enhanced activity. • The weakened interaction between cyclohexene and TiO 2 led to a higher selectivity. • Ru/TNSs-{2 1 1} has a high activity of 102 min−1 and initial selectivity of 91 %. Coupling active metal nanoparticles (NPs) with oxide nanocrystals enclosed by specific facets is a promising strategy to enhance their catalytic performances. Here, brookite TiO 2 nanoplates exposed with {11 1 ¯ } facets, nanorods enclosed by {1 2 1} facets, and nanosheets exposed with {2 1 1} facets were synthesized and coupled with Ru NPs, aiming at improving their catalytic efficiency in selective hydrogenation of benzene to cyclohexene (SHBC) and discriminating the critical roles of brookite facets. The comprehensive characterizations recognized that the successive exposure of brookite TiO 2 {11 1 ¯ }, {1 2 1}, and {2 1 1} facets resulted in a more suitable adsorption strength of C 6 H 6 and an increment of chemisorption capacity of C 6 H 6 on medium-strength acid sites, contributing to a promotion of the turnover frequency (TOF) of C 6 H 6. The kinetics investigations, density functional theory (DFT) simulations, and Mulliken population analysis unveiled that the increased Ti3+ species as a result of the successive exposure of brookite TiO 2 {11 1 ¯ }, {1 2 1}, and {2 1 1} facets brought in an increment of the net production rate of C 6 H 10 in SHBC, and the electronic interaction between C 6 H 10 and these facets is gradually weakened, which contributed to an improvement of C 6 H 10 selectivity. As a consequence, an initial C 6 H 10 selectivity (S 0) of 91 % and a C 6 H 10 yield of 47 % achieved on the brookite TiO 2 -supported Ru catalyst enclosed by TiO 2 {2 1 1} facets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ni/Co c-MOFs decoration with Au and Co 3 O 4 NPs were synthesized by a facile method. • The Au 3 @Co 3 O 4 NPs/Ni 1 Co 2 (HITP) immunosensor was optimized toward HBsAg detection. • High-performance of immunosensor can be ascribed to the synergistic effect. • The optimum immunosensor exhibits a low detection limit of 15 fg mL−1 for HBsAg. Herein, highly sensitive electrochemical immunosensor based on noble metal and metal oxide nanoparticles functionalized bimetal conductive metal–organic frameworks (c-MOFs) was proposed toward HBsAg detection. The nanorod-like architecture of Ni 3 (HITP) 2 c-MOFs was synthesised via a simple and facile route, followed by dopant coble ions formation cobaltosic oxide (Co 3 O 4) nanoparticles decorated bimetal NiCo(HITP) c-MOFs nanocomposites. Benefiting from large specific surface area, high electrical conductivity and abundant active sites of desirable nanostructures, the resultant Co 3 O 4 NPS/NiCo(HITP) bimetal c-MOFs nanostructure exhibits fast electron transfer capability and effective specific binding between antigen and antibody. Meanwhile, different amounts of Au nanoparticles were further functionalized on Co 3 O 4 NPS/NiCo(HITP) nanocomposites to further improve the electrochemical properties. Under optimum condition, the as-proposed Au@Co 3 O 4 NPS/NiCo(HITP) electrochemical immunosensor exhibits superior sensing performances toward HBsAg including wide linear response range from 1 pg mL−1 to 100 ng mL−1 and low detection limit of 15 fg mL−1 (S/N = 3). Meanwhile, the as-fabricated electrochemical immunosensors also displays outstanding selectivity, repeatability and stability. Besides, quantitative detection of HBsAg also achieves satisfactory results in real sample detection. Thereby, our work not only provides a promising strategy to construct highly sensitive electrochemical immunosensor using hybrid c-MOFs nanomaterials but also presents a potential application in the early diagnosis of hepatitis B-related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Progress in polymeric nanocomposite membranes for removing heavy metals from water. • Investigations relevant to carbon-based, and clay-based, nanocomposite membranes. • Studies relevant to zeolite-based, and metal oxide-based nanocomposite membranes. • Critical insights into fabrication strategies for nanocomposite membranes. • The current challenges and future perspectives for nanocomposite membranes. The presence of toxic heavy metals (HMs) in water systems poses significant threats to both human health and the environment. Researchers worldwide have been actively exploring various technologies for HMs removal, and nanomaterial-based adsorption has emerged as a particularly promising approach. Nanomaterials like carbon nanotubes, graphene oxide, zeolites, and metal oxide nanoparticles have garnered attention due to their exceptional adsorption performance, which can be attributed to their high thermal/chemical stability, large surface area, and functional groups. However, the practical implementation of these nanomaterials faces challenges, i.e., recovering the adsorbents and the tendency of aggregation into larger particles. In recent years, the development of polymeric nanocomposite membranes has shown great potential for HMs removal. By incorporating nanomaterials into the polymer matrix, these membranes achieve a synergistic effect of filtration and adsorption, making them highly effective in removing HMs. This comprehensive review focuses on the latest findings regarding the performance of widely studied polymeric nanocomposite membranes. Specifically, it covers carbon-based, clay-based, zeolite-based, and metal/metal oxide-based nanocomposite membranes, discussing their HMs rejection rates, flux rates, and critical insights into fabrication strategies. Furthermore, the review addresses the current challenges and offers future perspectives for nanocomposite membranes. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the recent advancements in polymeric nanocomposite membrane-based filtration for removing HMs from water. By presenting a detailed overview of the current state of research, limitations, and potential directions, this review serves as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners in the field. It offers insights into the efficacy of these membranes and paves the way for further exploration in addressing the pressing issue of toxic metal contamination in water sources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the photocatalytic reduction of CO 2 , Pd 4 /SnO 2 @rGO ternary catalyst exhibited outstanding CH 4 yield and selectivity. Palladium nanoparticles facilitated the selective formation of low energy-barrier CHO* intermediates with the help of rGO. The addition of HCOOH* intermediates further facilitated this process. [Display omitted] • Ultrafine, highly dispersed Pd nanoparticles exhibit excellent photocatalytic CO 2 reduction performance. • rGO coating modulates the band gap structure to enhance CH 4 selectivity of catalyst. • The hybrid catalyst drives fast transfer and separation of charge carriers. • Optimising the reaction pathway to reduce the CHO* energy barrier is critical for the reduction of CO 2 to CH 4. Tailoring catalytic reaction pathways by using reduced graphene oxide (rGO) to tune the electron-hole separation channels in the active sites of noble metals for achieving ideal yield and selectivity in photocatalytic CO 2 reduction of hydrocarbon fuels remains a challenge. Herein, ternary catalyst of rGO-coated SnO 2 -supported noble metal Pd nanoparticles (Pd 4 /SnO 2 @rGO) has been prepared by coassembly between negatively charged graphene oxide and positively charged Pd nanoparticles. By coating with ultrathin rGO, the selectivity can be shifted from CO (44.69 % for Pd 4 /SnO 2) toward CH 4 as the prevalent species, in which the Pd nanoparticles acted as catalytic sites and electron capture sites. The rGO coating reduced the recombination of the photogenerated carriers as well as optimized the band gap and reduction potential of the catalyst. The in situ spectroscopic tests and density functional theory calculations revealed that CO 2 adsorbed on Pd nanoparticles selectively formed dominant low-energy CHO* intermediates because of the generation of HCOOH* intermediates, thus providing a unique reaction pathway for the reduction of CO 2 to CH 4. Therefore, under sunlight irradiation, the CH 4 selectivity of the catalyst is enhanced to 94.1 % with a production rate of up to 77.8 μmol·g−1·h−1. This work demonstrated the prospect to tune the electronic structure of Pd using rGO, which provided a strategy for enhancing the carbon dioxide reduction reaction and selectively obtaining CH 4 products in photocatalytic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ni-MnO/PC with large specific surface area was obtained through one-pot hydrothermal and calcination treatment. The Ni-MnO/PC-based aqueous zinc ion batteries exhibit excellent electrochemical performance and stability. [Display omitted] • Ni-MnO/PC composite is derived from trimetallic-organic framework, and it exhibits excellent zinc storage performance. • The Zn || Ni-MnO/PC batteries represent not only an outstanding discharge capacity, but also an ultra-long cycle stability. • The ex-situ tests reveal co-intercalation mechanism of H+ and Zn2+ in Ni-MnO/PC electrode for storing zinc. • The synergistic effect of Ni nanoparticles doping and porous carbon is responsible for its excellent properties. Manganese-based materials are frequently employed as the cathodes of aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) due to the merits of low cost, eco-friendliness and high operating voltage. However, their inherent low conductivity and poor structural stability often lead to an insufficient rate capacity and therefore limit their application in AZIBs. Herein, we use the trimetallic-organic framework precursor to synthesize a Ni nanoparticle doped MnO composite uniformly anchored on porous carbon (Ni-MnO/PC) by a simple hydrothermal and annealing method. Electrochemical evaluation indicates that the Ni-MnO/PC composite electrode exhibits excellent zinc storage performance, mainly due to the synergistic effect of Ni nanoparticles doping and porous carbon, which enhances adsorption energy of zinc ions and also increases structure stability. The Zn || Ni-MnO/PC batteries represent not only an outstanding discharge capacity of 347.4 mAh/g at 100 mA g−1, but also an ultra-long cycle stability. Even in 3000 mA g−1, the Ni-MnO/PC electrode holds a high-capacity retention of 91.1 % after 6000 cycles. The various ex-situ tests reveal that co-intercalation of H+ and Zn2+ in Ni-MnO/PC electrode is the major mechanism for storing zinc. Finally, quasi solid-battery assembled with Ni-MnO/PC cathode can also withstand stress at different bending states. This work will promote the application of metal nanoparticles doping strategies for AZIBs and provide views for the development of durable flexible energy storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Pd/zeolite catalysts are prepared using an ion-exchange followed by reduction method. • As-prepared Pd/ZSM-5 showed low activity and selectivity in hydrogenation reactions. • A controlled NaOH treatment promoted mesopore formation around the Pd nanoparticles. • A controlled NaOH treatment removed the Brønsted acid sites of the zeolite structure. • NaOH-treated Pd/ZSM-5 catalyzed the hydrogenation reactions without side reactions. Zeolites have been widely applied as support materials for metal nanoparticles. However, when developing a metal/zeolite catalyst for hydrogenation reactions, the Brønsted acid sites of zeolites can promote side reactions and the zeolite structure can inhibit the access of reactants to the metal, resulting in low activity and selectivity. In this study, these challenges are addressed by preparing a metal/zeolite catalyst via a modified ion-exchange followed by reduction method, and subjecting the catalysts to two test reactions, hydrogenation of vanillin and fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs). After forming Pd nanoparticles within ZSM-5, it was treated with a NaOH solution in a controlled manner to form mesopores around Pd and replace hydronium ions with sodium ions to remove Brønsted acid sites. Pd/ZSM-5 catalysts prepared with controlled NaOH treatment showed higher hydrogenation reactivity and improved selectivity toward the desired hydrogenation products than those prepared without NaOH treatment. This study presents a simple strategy to prepare metal/zeolite catalysts to promote hydrogenation without side reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Ultrathin Fe 2 O 3 sheet sacrificed templates are used to make highly-permeable HFM. • The membrane has greatly enhanced porosity, pore size, and mechanical properties. • The membrane has 10.6-fold-increased superhigh permeance of 209.2 L m−2h−1 bar−1. • The solute rejection keeps good (>90 %) because the templated-channels are small. • The membrane has high flux recovery ratio (>0.7) implying good antifouling ability. Hollow fiber membranes (HFMs) have been widely used in ultrafiltration. However, current HFMs usually exhibit low permeance to ensure satisfactory retention performances. Blending nanomaterials into HFMs matrix can enhance permeance but still can be improved. Herein, we report a facile strategy to fabricate highly-permeable HFMs using inorganic metal oxide nanoparticles as sacrificed templates. Ultrathin Fe 2 O 3 nanosheets are synthesized via hydrothermal method. After blending with minuscule concentrations (0.4 % mass fraction) of the nanosheets, spinning and acid dissolving, HFMs are fabricated with nanosheet-templated channels. These HFMs have enhanced porosity (from 49.7 % to 86.9 %), pore size (from 12.5 nm to 27.5 nm), roughness (from 16.0 nm to 29.3 nm), hydrophilicity (water contact angle from 93.7° to 77.8°), mechanical properties (tensile strength from 3.0 MPa to 4.2 MPa), and antifouling ability (flux recovery ratio from 0.58 to 0.71). The permeance can be increased significantly to 209.2 L m−2 h−1 bar−1, a 10.6-fold improvement compared to the unblended HFMs. The solute rejection of the HFMs is not compromised (e.g., maintaining 10 nm Au at 96.3 % and bovine serum albumin at 86.2 %) due to the small size of templated channels. The sacrificed template blending strategy can be applied to other inorganic metal nanoparticles and various polymer-based HFMs. This work can also provide great inspiration for flexibly designing and conveniently fabricating highly-permeable HFMs in industrial ultrafiltration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Quantum dots with high quantum yield and excellent biocompatibility were synthesized. • Gold nanodendrites with controllable sizes and anisotropic shape were synthesized. • Sensing platform based on QDs-gold nanodendrites hybrid system were constructed. • 17-fold sensitivity improvement was achieved when applying this sensing platform. Fluorescence immunosensors are highly demanded for diagnosing, monitoring and pathogenesis of diseases. Yet, the low sensitivity due to the weak fluorescence intensity of commonly employed fluorescent materials is the major obstacle towards early accurate diagnosis of targeted diseases. Herein, we resolve this issue by designing a highly sensitive fluorescence platform via employing colloidal quantum dots (QDs)-metal nanoparticles hybrid system. The QDs exhibit high chemical, thermal, and optical stability, excellent biocompatibility with ultrahigh quantum yield (∼88 %). They exhibit a core/shell architecture with type-I band alignment. The gold nanodendrites (AuNDs) synthesized via seed growth method with controllable sizes exhibit anisotropic shape, which maximizes the impacts of local surface plasmon resonance to amplify the fluorescence performance of colloidal QDs. Utilizing the designed platform and taking C-reactive protein as a testcase, we achieve ∼17-fold sensitivity improvement compared with metal nanoparticles free sensing platform, and a wide detection range between 0.25 ng/mL and 1000 ng/mL, and a low detection limit of 0.056 ng/mL. The designed sensing platform has been extended for the detection of real blood and tissue samples, and competing results have been delivered compared with the prevailing detecting technique. The present work reports a novel route of designing biological sensing platform through fluorescence amplification, which holds great potential for highly sensitive and throughput detection in clinical applications, and is widely applicable for highly sensitive detection of other biomarkers in biomedical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The N-doped carbon-encapsulated metal nanoparticles was developed. • MnFe-CN in the continuous mode maintained high removal performance for 7 days. • MnFe-CN shown excellent stability and extended periods of storage. • The relationship between active sites and oxidative species was identified. • The evolution of degradation intermediates and pathways were proposed. Persulfate − based in situ chemical oxidation (ISCO) is a promising approach for groundwater treatment due to its potential. However, the development of catalysts with sufficient activity and stability in persulfate oxidation remains a long − term goal. In this study, we aimed to address this challenge by preparing bimetallic nanoparticles coated with porous nitrogen − doped graphene shells, known as MnFe − NC, to activate peroxydisulfate (PDS). The unique structural feature of MnFe − NC, with metallic crystal nanoparticles encapsulated in carbon shells, ensured excellent persulfate activation performance of MnFe − NC, even during repeated cycles and extended periods of storage. To evaluate the practical application of MnFe − NC, MnFe − NC/PDS was installed in sand columns for the ISCO of sulpiride (SPR), achieving removal efficiencies of approximately 100 % during a continuous 7 − day reaction process. MnFe − NC/PDS exhibited remarkable tolerance to pH changes and environmental interference commonly encountered in groundwater treatment scenarios. Combined with density functional theory calculations, Mn 5 C 2 and Fe 2 N were identified as the key active site for MnFe − NC activation of PDS. The decomposition mechanism of SPR in the system was further analyzed, including the cleavage of C–N/C–C, denitration reaction, and substitution reaction. These findings provide important insights into the intricate processes involved in the degradation of refractory organic pollutants. The developed MnFe − NC catalyst for PDS − based ISCO exhibits great potential in the remediation of refractory organic pollutant − contaminated groundwater. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • AuPd nanoparticles assembled on NH 2 -MIL-125(Ti)-derived N-TiO 2 were prepared. • Au 2 Pd 8 /N-TiO 2 exhibited an excellent performance with a TOF of 7725 h−1 at 60 °C. • The doping of N greatly improved the activity and stability of the catalyst. • Theoretical calculations showed that anatase and N-doped TiO 2 could reduce the energy barrier for CO 2 generation. Nitrogen-doped TiO 2 (N-TiO 2) was prepared by direct pyrolysis of the amino-functionalized titanium metal–organic framework NH 2 -MIL-125(Ti) in air, and highly dispersed AuPd nanoparticles were anchored on N-TiO 2. The synthesized catalysts showed excellent activity for formic acid dehydrogenation. At 60 °C, the total turnover frequency value of Au 2 Pd 8 /N-TiO 2 -catalyzed dehydrogenation reaction was 7725 h−1, which was 2.9 times that of the N-free catalyst (Au 2 Pd 8 /TiO 2) under the same conditions. The excellent performance of the Au 2 Pd 8 /N-TiO 2 catalyst was attributed to the high content of anatase TiO 2 , the synergistic effect between the N-TiO 2 support and the metal nanoparticles, the alloying effect between Au and Pd and the small size of the metal particles. The presence of N can enhance the interaction between AuPd and the support, effectively prevent the aggregation of AuPd on the surface of the support, and improve the catalytic activity and reusability of the catalyst. The effect of TiO 2 crystalline phase (anatase and rutile) and N doping on the performance of Au 2 Pd 8 /N-TiO 2 -catalyzed formic acid decomposition was analyzed by means of theoretical calculations. The results showed that the anatase and N-TiO 2 -based catalysts could reduce the barrier for formic acid dehydrogenation. This work combined experiments with theoretical calculations to provide a new approach to the modification of formic acid dehydrogenation catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Synthesis and modification of cross-linked (MIP) for recovery of Pb(II) and As(V). • Analytical techniques were used to characterize and confirm the synthesized material. • Integrative mechanisms for recognition and selective recovery were discussed. • Studying isotherms modeling, kinetics, and thermodynamics parameters of recovery. • Solvent types, interfering ions, selectivity, and regeneration were investigated. A cross-linked molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) was synthesized and functionalized by metal oxide nanoparticles (TiO 2 and SiO 2) to form a potential cross-linked (MIP) nanocomposite via binding of Nano-TiO 2 and Nano-SiO 2 to cross-linked chitosan. Where chitosan acted as a functional monomer, glutaraldehyde (Glu) acted as an organic cross-linker with bifunctional reactive groups, and lead (II) and arsenic (V) acted as templates. This work is composed of a binary of promising ideas: (a) a facile preparation of cross-inked molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) via bulk polymerization method, and (b) the functionalization of newly fabricated cross-linked (MIP) using metal oxide nanoparticles. The fabricated cross-linked biopolymer nanocomposite was used for simultaneous and selective recovery of toxic metal ions from water. Microwave irradiation was applied as an assisted technique to estimate the performance of the synthesized material. The properties and structure of the fabricated Nano-TiO 2 @Cross-linked Chitosan@Nano-SiO 2 were characterized by FT-IR, XRD, TG/DTA, BETs, SEM-EDX, TEM, and XPS. The results indicated that Pb(II) at pH 5.0 ± 0.15 and at time varied from 5 sec to 25 sec exhibited recoveries capacity 97.99–99.81% and Q max 81.97 mg/g, while As(V) at pH 4.0 ± 0.15 and at 5 sec to 20 sec, exhibited recoveries capacity 96.38–99.72 % and Q max 625.00 mg/g. The cross-linked MIP nanocomposite exhibited an improved specific surface (388.0 m2/g) and mesopore size (15.18 nm) compared to its precursors. Freundlich and pseudo -second-order equation well-fitted the experimental data. Pb(II) and As(V) recoveries were exothermic, spontaneous, and governed by entropy change. Solvents subjected to eliminate the templates, interfering ions, selectivity, and reusability experiments were carried out. Newly integrative mechanisms for implementing cross-linked (MIP) nanocomposite for recognizing and recovering metal ions were adequately explained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The combined applications of nanomaterials and CRISPR/Cas in biosensing are detailed discussed. • The characteristics of CRISPR/Cas and nanomaterials are introduced briefly. • Challenges and future directions of nanomaterials and CRISPR/Cas in biosensing applications are presented. The advancement of biosensing has led to increased demands for precise target recognition and highly sensitive detection. Nanomaterials have emerged as indispensable contributors to this development process. Concurrently, the CRISPR/Cas (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats/CRISPR-associated system) also has surfaced as a novel tool that brings new prospects to the field of biosensing. Its notable benefits include accurate recognition, rapid response, ease of operation, and cost effectiveness. Significantly, the integration of nanomaterials and CRISPR/Cas exhibits immense potential for diverse applications. To enhance comprehension of biosensing research utilizing nanomaterials and CRISPR/Cas, this review comprehensively summarizes and analyzes the distinct functional roles of both components in biosensing approaches. The focus lies on exploring the applications of various nanomaterials (such as metal nanoparticles, metal oxides, carbon nanomaterials, porous framework materials, and other nanomaterials) combined with CRISPR/Cas in the biosensing field. Finally, the review discusses the challenges encountered and outlines future directions, providing valuable insights reference for the development of novel biosensing methodologies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Mono-/alloy nanoparticle (NP)-embedded OMCs up to 20 wt% metal loadings from humins. • Stoichiometric ratio metal NPs@OMCs prepared with simple one-pot procedure. • Fe x Ni y @OMC has higher activity (100%) than Ru catalysts for glucose hydrogenation. • Metal leaching and agglomeration inhibited due to confinement effect and alloy formation. Supported metal nanoparticles (NPs) have many potential applications in environmental, energy and catalysis fields. Herein, a general strategy for embedding metallic element, multi-metal or metal alloy nanoparticles into ordered mesoporous carbons (OMCs) with one pot reaction is described that uses alcohol-soluble humins as carbon precursors, metal ions as metal NP precursors and nonionic surfactant (F127) in ethanol with evaporation induced self-assembly (EISA) soft-template method. The synthesis method for NP@OMC materials is applicable to single metals (Fe, Co, Ni, Zn, Ru, Mg, Ca, and Zr) or multiple metals and allows formation of mono-metal nanoparticle or alloy nanoparticle-embedded OMC materials with dense loadings of up to ca. 20 wt%. As proof-of-concept, the catalytic performance of Fe x Ni y @OMC for glucose hydrogenation at controlled stoichiometric ratios (x : 0, 1, 3; y : 3, 1, 0) were shown to give sorbitol yields of 99.6% at 160 °C in 3 h reaction time. The Fe x Ni y @OMC materials outperformed reported Ru catalysts for glucose hydrogenation and their structure and dispersion in the OMC inhibited Ni agglomeration and leaching. The proposed general strategy, which uses alcohol-soluble humins carbon precursors, is broadly applicable to single or multiple metals and allows simple control of metal or metallic element NP composition, metal NP loading and NP dispersion in metal NP-embedded ordered mesoporous carbon materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Four activated carbon/metal oxides composites (AC/MgO, AC/ZnO, AC/CuO and AC/ZrO 2) were synthesized. • The adsorption performance of AC/MO x composites for three kinds of VOCs (acetone, toluene and methanol) were tested. • ZnO nanoparticles are the most effective for enhancing the VOCs capture performance of activated carbon. • The AC/MO x composites showed strong adsorption to acetone and methanol, but not to toluene. • Adsorption mechanism between VOCs and AC/MO x composites is elucidated by experimental and DFT methods. To enhance the interfacial interaction of activated carbon (AC) with volatile organic compounds (VOCs), the AC surface was modified by depositing metal oxide nanoparticles via an evaporation-induced self-assembly (EISA) method. Taking acetone, toluene and methanol as adsorbates, both dynamic and static VOCs adsorption methods were used to evaluate the adsorption performance of AC and AC/MO x (M = Mg, Zn, Cu and Zr). Compared to pure AC, metal oxide nanoparticles deposition effectively increased the adsorption capacity for acetone and methanol, and AC/ZnO composites showed the best adsorption performance for acetone (415 mg g−1) and methanol (481 mg g−1). In concert with the experiment, a set of systematic theoretical calculations, regarding adsorption energy, adsorption equilibrium distance and charge transfer, were performed to explore the VOCs adsorption mechanism on the metal oxide surface. The adsorption performance can be determined by the Lewis acid-base properties of VOCs-metal oxide systems, the characteristic functional groups and the molecular polarity of VOCs molecules, which paves a new way to develop a novel metal oxide based adsorbent for the VOCs adsorption applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A new process for synthesis of conductive metal nano-inks is introduced. • Ni-Ag nanopowders are simultaneously made and functionalized in the HTRJ reactor. • Films containing 50 wt% Ni show conductivity of 5.14 × 104 S m−1 without sintering. • One-step continuous flame-based process can be used for low-cost nano-ink production. A new concept for the synthesis of conductive metal nanoparticle inks (nano-inks) is introduced using a one-step continuous flame-based process. Bimetallic nickel (Ni)-silver (Ag) nanopowders are simultaneously produced and functionalized in a High Temperature Reducing Jet (HTRJ) reactor. The HTRJ process allows rapid aerosol (gas phase) formation of multicomponent metal nanoparticles with relatively high production rates from low-cost metal precursors. Octylamine, a volatile aliphatic amine, is sprayed into the reactor effluent after the particle formation zone to cap nanoparticles as they form. Ni-Ag Functionalized Nano Powders (FNPs) were characterized and compared with Bare Nano Powders (BNPs) to verify that in situ ligand attachment was successful. Nano-inks were prepared by dispersing FNPs in an organic solvent. Conductive films were fabricated using different nano-ink compositions starting from pure Ni to 50 wt% Ni. With the use of a small capping agent, films containing 50 wt% (65 at%) Ni provide an electrical conductivity of 5.14 × 104 S m−1 without any post-processing. Conductivity increased to 4.22 × 105 S m−1 after thermal annealing in an inert environment. These sintering-free bimetallic conductive nanoparticles can be used as a lower cost replacement for current silver inks for single-step printing of conductive traces without post-processing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A novel CoNi 2 S 4 -based composites were fabricated from bimetal-organic frameworks. • The obtained CoNi 2 S 4 -based composites show excellent lithium storage performance. • A high reversible capacity of 843 mAh g−1 was retained at 1 A g−1 after 600 cycles. Designing advanced structures to ameliorate the deficiencies of conversion anodes in terms of poor conductivity and sever volume change over cycling is still the attracting area for fundamental research but challenging, toward which more efforts are needed. Here, we demonstrate the synthesis of a hierarchical composite of CoNi 2 S 4 from sulfurizing the elaborately designed Co/Ni bimetal-organic frameworks (MOF-74) precursors with well-defined sphere morphology. In this composite, the CoNi 2 S 4 nanoparticles are evenly embedded in the carbon nanosheets which are in situ carbonized from organic ligand and self-assembled into porous carbon spheres with short carbon nanotubes (CNTs) deeply rooted in the surface (CoNi 2 S 4 @PCS/CNTs). The porous structure provides favourable paths for electrolyte penetration and spaces for volume changing upon cycling, while the outwardly grew short CNTs and the carbon skeleton of the spheres guarantee fast electron transfer. Beneficial from the robust structure plus the synergetic effect from two different metal elements, the obtained CoNi 2 S 4 @PCS/CNTs demonstrates excellent lithium storage performance in terms of reversible capacity (1250 mAh g−1 at 500 mA g−1), cycle stability (843 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 after 600 cycles) and rate capability (608 mAh g−1 at 4 A g−1). The kinetic analysis reveals that the CoNi 2 S 4 @PCS/CNTs is benefit from capacitive contribution to the reversible lithium storage capacity under a faradaic surface pseudocapacitive mechanism, especially at high current densities. This work demonstrates an effective strategy that combines the synergetic effect from two metals upon lithium insertion and advantages from structure design to enhance the lithium storage performance of conversion materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Modulating lithium storage was achieved by developing a single-pass plug-and-play assembly platform for the built-to-order manufacture of different composite anodes comprising a transition metal oxide, a carbon matrix, and a conductive polymer. Highlights • A plug-and-play assembly platform yielded lithium anodes with modulatable capacity. • The platform can be extended for on-demand manufacture of different lithium anodes. • The different architectures enabled the modulation of lithium storage performance. Abstract In this study, modulating lithium storage is achieved as a result of the built-to-order assembly of composite anodes by the serial connection of reconfigurable plug-and-play devices in an ambient atmosphere. In this assembly, spark ablation, mechanical spraying, and ultraviolet exposure devices are connected in series, as well as the turning of devices, under a continuous air flow, affording composite anodes in less than 15 s. Specifically, SnO 2 nanoparticles prepared from spark ablation are carried by air flow, and the flow is injected into a mechanical spray system to generate carbon nanotube–graphene nanosheet/polyaniline slurry droplets, where SnO 2 nanoparticles are inserted into the droplets via gas pressurization at the spray nozzle. Subsequently, the droplets are passed through a 254-nm ultraviolet lamp and a silica–gel–installed hollow tube for dynamic stiffening and drying to form SnO 2 -carbon nanotube–graphene nanosheet/polyaniline composites in a single-pass air flow. In addition, different composites such as SnO 2 -carbon nanotube (or graphene nanosheet)/polyaniline, SnO 2 CuO-carbon nanotube–graphene nanosheet/polyaniline, and SnO 2 Co 3 O 4 -carbon nanotube–graphene nanosheet/polyaniline are conveniently assembled by the reconfiguration of metal oxide nanoparticles or carbon/polymer slurries in the plug-and-play operation. These composites are suitable as anodes for lithium storage and enabled the modulation of specific capacities, rate capabilities, and cyclabilities by employing different architectures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • SiOC microspheres derived from Chlorella are synthesized by bio-templating method. • Elements are uniformly distributed in SiOC by supercritical fluid technology. • MnO nanoparticles are embedded in SiOC matrix through bio-sorption. • MnO/SiOC composites exhibit high reversible capacity and good cycling stability. • This facile route provides reference for fabricating other functional materials. Abstract Silicon oxycarbide (SiOC) materials are considered as a promising high capacity anode for next-generation Li-ion batteries. However, the rapid capacity fading and poor cycling stability often occur in the SiOC materials with high Si content. In this work, an effective and facile strategy is reported to construct nanocomposites of MnO/SiOC, in which SiOC acts as buffer agent and conductive matrix, while MnO contributes to the major reversible capability. Microalgae (Chlorella) serves as both biological template and carbon source to synthesize SiOC microspheres with the assistance of supercritical CO 2 fluid, then rice-like MnO nanoparticles are tightly embedded in the SiOC matrix through the heavy metal ion bio-sorption behavior of Chlorella. As anode materials for Li-ion batteries, the C/MnO/SiOC composites exhibit high reversible capacity of 770 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at a current density of 100 mA g−1 with excellent cycling stability and great rate capability. This work provides a novel strategy to fabricate SiOC-based high capacity anode materials for advanced Li-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Ultrafine Pd loaded Ni foam electrode is obtained by simple replacement method. • The Pd@Ni-foam exhibits an excellent electroreductive dechloridation performance. • Antibiotic toxicity was completely removed through Pd@Ni-foam cathode. • The synergistic effect between Pd and Ni was first proposed. Abstract Electrocatalytic hydrodechlorination is deemed as a promising environmental remediation technology for fast and effective detoxification of halogenated antibiotic pollutants. In this study, a novel nickel (Ni) foam electrode decorated by ultrafine palladium (Pd) nanoparticles (denoted as Pd@Ni-foam) was reported for electrocatalytic dechlorination of florfenicol (FLO, a typical antibiotic). The Pd@Ni-foam electrode was synthesized via a facile and simple spontaneous galvanic replacement of surface Ni atoms of Ni foam with Pd precursor. The obtained Pd@Ni-foam catalyst showed an excellent performance on electrochemical dechloridation of FLO. The dechloridation efficiency of FLO (20 mg L−1) reached 99.5% with the dechloridation rate as fast as 16.58 mg min−1 at cathode potential of –1.2 V (vs. saturated Ag/AgCl), which far prevailed over pure Ni foam (2.63 mg min−1) and commercial Pd/C (11.32 mg min−1). The reaction rate constant (0.044 min−1) of FLO dechloridation at Pd@Ni-foam electrode was 44 and 4.4 times higher than that of pure Ni-foam (0.001 min−1) and commercial Pd/C (0.010 min−1), respectively. The excellent electrocatalysis for FLO dechloridation of Pd@Ni-foam cathode is ascribed to the 3D self-supported Ni-foam frame for mass transfer enhancement and the formation of Pd-Ni micro-interfaces leading to the high utilization of atomic H*. Furthermore, the toxicity assessment showed that the antibacterial activity of FLO was complete elimination after electrocatalytic dechlorination process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Quaternized PEC NP is designed as a uniform building block for NF membranes. • QPECMs feature both improved water permeability and multivalent cation selectivity. • QPECM-4 exhibits superior heavy metal removal and anti-scaling properties. • The design strategy presents facile adaptability to other membrane systems for specific water treatment. Abstract Polyelectrolyte complex nanoparticles (PEC NPs) armed with tunable quaternary ammonium groups are designed from dextran sulfate sodium and chitosan (CS), and utilized as novel building blocks to prepare quaternized polyelectrolyte complex membranes (QPECMs) for nanofiltration process via surface coating and glutaraldehyde crosslinking method. Structural characteristics, surface properties and separation performance of QPECMs are compared with these of quaternized CS membrane (QCSM) and nascent PEC NPs membrane (PECM). Results indicate that increased water permeability of QPECMs generates from loose aggregation architecture moderating tight packing of polymeric chains, while enhanced ion selectivity is attributed to efficient charge character providing strong electrostatic repulsion toward metal cations. Moreover, QPECM-4 features efficient anti-scaling properties with low flux decline ratio of 11.5% and high recovery ratio of 96.5%, accompanied with long-term stability and recyclability in gypsum dynamic filtration. This design strategy of water-soluble PEC NPs serving as building blocks presents facile adaptability to other polyelectrolyte complex membrane systems for specific water treatment and environmental remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • A facile synthetic route to copper sulfide in continuous Couette-Taylor reactor. • Morphology control of copper sulfide by level of supersaturation. • Level of supersaturation could be effectively regulated by rotational speed. Abstract In this report, a Couette-Taylor (CT) reactor was applied as an effective continuous process for synthesizing copper sulfide nanoparticles. The rotational speed, mean residence time (MRT), and concentration of the feed solution were important control factors on the morphology and size control of the nanoparticles. Increasing the rotational speed from 80 rpm to 90 rpm changed the morphology of the synthesized nanoparticles from nanofibers to hexagonal nanoplates. Only Cu 7 S 4 nanofibers were obtained in the batch reactor. Through various comparative experiments, we found that MRT and the feed solution concentration affect monomer concentration in the CT reactor, thus controlling the morphology and size of the nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights • Electrospinning is a scaffold fabrication method. • Integrating other materials such as metals nanoparticles with polymers is emerging as a route to new composites materials. • Electrospun polymer-nanoparticles composites are a new frontier in biomedicine. • We summarise advances in electrospun tissue engineering and wound dressing platforms. • Polymer-titanium dioxide nanocomposites is discussed here. Abstract Electrospinning is widely used to fabricate nanoscale fibers from natural and synthetic polymers. Electrospun fibers have potential application in tissue engineering as well as in the design of catalysts, batteries, electronic sensors, packages, filtration membranes, medical implants, wound dressings, and medical fabrics, and drug delivery systems. Fibers offer a porous structure with a high surface area to volume ratio, which is a highly desired property in various applications. Integrating other materials such as metals nanoparticles or ceramics in electrospun fibers is emerging as a route to new nanoscale composites materials with enhanced functional properties. Incorporating nanoparticles on or within the nanofibrous scaffold impart functional properties with implication for catalysis, optoelectronics, and biomedicine. Indeed, these electrospun polymer-nanoparticles composites are a new frontier in biomedicine, where their relevance to tissue engineering, wound dressing, drug delivery is emerging. Here, we summarise advances in electrospun tissue engineering and wound dressing platforms developed from polymer-titanium dioxide nanocomposites. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • First study to assess performance of the Cu NPs/HDPC-H 2 O 2 system for OC degradation. • High surface area and pore volume of HDPC are beneficial to the dispersion of Cu NPs. • Functional groups in HDPC could activate H 2 O 2 to produce OH. • Transformation pathways of OC are proposed based on 7 identified metabolites. Abstract The technical applicability of hydrochar-derived pyrolysis char-supported Cu nanoparticles composite (Cu NPs/HDPC) to the degradation of octocrylene (OC) was investigated in aqueous solutions in the presence of H 2 O 2. The physico-chemical properties of the Cu NPs/HDPC composite before and after degradation reaction were described. The role of OH in this H 2 O 2 -led degradation was examined using electron spin resonance (EPR) technique. The possible degradation mechanisms of OC by the Cu NPs/HDPC-H 2 O 2 system and its degradation pathways were investigated. A relatively large surface area and pore volume of the HDPC (191.4 m2 g−1 and 0.11 cm3 g−1, respectively) resulted in well-dispersed Cu NPs loading on the surface. The degradation efficiency of OC (50 μM) was 97.0% in the presence of Cu NPs/HDPC composite (0.5 g L−1) and H 2 O 2 (20 mM) at pH 5.6 in 4 h, which was significantly higher than in Cu NPs/biochar and the integrated HDPC-Cu NPs, i.e., 62.4% and 79.7%, respectively, under the same conditions (ANOVA test; p ≤ 0.05). Several oxidation by-products of the OC included benzophenone, 3,3-diphenylacrylonitrile, and others. The OH, which resulted from the Fenton-like oxidation between the Cu species and H 2 O 2 on the HDPC surface, was the predominant factor responsible for the OC degradation in the solution. The OH formation was facilitated by a single-electron transfer process from the HDPC surface, in which the Cu NPs/HDPC composite with its C OH functional group promoted the decomposition of H 2 O 2. These findings contribute to a novel approach of cost-effective wastewater treatment by adding value to unused waste materials from agricultural industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • A series of integrated nanocatalysts have been well fabricated. • The spatial distribution of metal nanoparticles on INCs could be well controlled. • Cu 2 O was used as main building block for the design and fabrication of INCs. • The enhanced catalytic activity was found with more exposed metal nanoparticles. Abstract Integrated nanocatalysts (INCs) with high compositional and structural complexities are recognized as a new class of heterogeneous catalysts exhibiting more advantageous features than the conventional ones. In this work, we have developed a general synthetic protocol for the design and fabrication of INCs by controllable integration of hollow or non-hollow Cu 2 O, noble metal nanoparticles (MNPs, M = Au, Pd, and Pt) and mesoporous silica (m SiO 2) into a single and well-defined matrix. The synthetic protocol was based on stepwise fabrication manner involving sol-gel process to coat mesoporous silica, Ostwald ripening process to generate void space, and galvanic replacement process to deposit ultrafine catalytic MNPs. As a demonstration, in total, our method gives rise to 14 different kinds of INCs with two to four components, such as Cu 2 O@M, Au@Cu 2 O@M, Au@ h Cu 2 O@M, and Au@ h Cu 2 O@M@ m SiO 2 , etc. Interestingly, INCs with the various spatial distributions of MNPs on m SiO 2 were constructed by using Cu 2 O as a sacrificial template under deliberately controlled pH condition. For instance, location regulation of MNPs was achieved on the external surface of m SiO 2 wall or inside the m SiO 2 cavity due to the different redox couple of metal precursors and different dissolution rate of Cu 2 O during the galvanic replacement process. The workability of the designed INCs was also examined with 4-nitrophenol reduction in the liquid phase and the enhanced catalytic activity was found with catalysts having more exposed MNPs on the external silica surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphical abstract Highlights • Magnetic Ag-doped MnFe 2 O 4 was prepared with porous structure and high surface area. • Ag doping significantly promoted catalytic ozonation of di-n-butyl phthalate. • Metal speciation dynamics of the catalysts shed lights on the reaction mechanism. • Ag doping accelerated electron transfer between catalyst and ozone. • Surface hydroxyl groups played an important role for catalytic ozonation. Abstract Enhanced catalytic ozonation of di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP), a recalcitrant waterborne pollutant, was enabled by a family of novel Ag-doped spinel ferrites (MnFe 2 O 4) materials. A sol-gel approach was used to synthesize the Ag-doped MnFe 2 O 4 catalysts, resulting in a highly porous structure with good magnetic property. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis confirmed the incorporation of Ag into the MnFe 2 O 4 structure. The Ag-doped MnFe 2 O 4 significantly accelerated ozonation of DBP, and a Ag doping of 0.5% (relative to Mn) enhanced the apparent rate constants by a factor of three and two under circumneutral conditions, compared to the ozone-alone and undoped MnFe 2 O 4 systems, respectively. Catalyst surface hydroxyl groups were identified as a critical factor for ozone decomposition and the subsequent hydroxyl radical production. Spectroscopic and electrochemical measurements showed that Ag doping enhanced DBP degradation by increasing the density of surface hydroxyl groups and promoting the electron transfer and cycling between the catalyst and ozone. The Ag-doped MnFe 2 O 4 catalysts exhibited high stability and can be used for multiple cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

H 2 generation (HG) from NaBH 4 hydrolysis represents as a safe, mild and convenient method for storing and releasing H 2 . As Ru is the most effective metal for catalyzing NaBH 4 hydrolysis, continuous efforts are being made to find suitable supports for immobilizing Ru nanoparticles (NPs) to form heterogeneous Ru catalysts. Since NaBH 4 hydrolysis typically occurs in water and at high temperature, an ideal support necessitates high stability in water, high surface area, hierarchical structures and even synergy with Ru. In this study, ZIF-67 is particularly selected as a catalytic active support for immobilizing Ru species because ZIF-67 has proven to be highly stable in water and also hierarchically consists of Co, another catalytic active component for HG from NaBH 4 hydrolysis. Compared to ZIF-8, ZIF-67 is validated to catalyze NaBH 4 hydrolysis for HG, making Ru/ZIF-67 an enhanced Ru-based catalyst. Ru/ZIF also exhibited a higher catalytic activity than the equivalent Ru species, suggesting that the supporting of Ru on ZIF-67 enhanced catalytic activities of Ru species. As the effect of Ru loading on Ru/ZIF was evaluated, a higher Ru loading significantly boosted catalytic activities by substantially reducing E a . HG from Ru/ZIF-catalyzed hydrolysis of NaBH 4 could be optimized in the presence of 7.5 wt% of NaOH to exhibit a low E a of 36.4 kJ mol −1 , which is much lower than most of reported Ru-based catalysts. In addition, Ru/ZIF can be also re-used with consistent catalytic activities without regeneration. These results validate that Ru/ZIF67 composite is a promising and effective catalyst for H 2 production from NaBH 4 hydrolysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The bottom-up approach can be used to synthesize MoS 2 nanosheets with controlled morphology and synchronous surface modification. However, these MoS 2 nanosheets frequently stacked with each other to form a multi-layer structure, which greatly affects the improvement of their drug loading capacity. In this work, we reported a facile bottom-up synthesis of polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) coated biocompatible MoS 2 nanoparticles (NPs) with admirable drug loading capacity for synergistic tumor photothermal and chemotherapy. The colloidal-stable MoS 2 NPs possessed excellent photothermal transducing performance with the photothermal conversion efficiency of 37.5%. Further, the porous structure of MoS 2 NPs facilitated the drug payload with a tunable drug loading percentage of 7%–72%. More importantly, the drug release from the MoS 2 NPs followed a controlled pH- and NIR-dual modal responsive manner. The material design takes account of the drug loading capacity of NPs and the photothermal feature of MoS 2 , providing a paradigm that the research of cancer therapy agents can be moved forward by integrating the advantages of different nanomaterials into one dosage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microorganisms can remove selenate (SeO 4 2− ) in water by converting it to elemental selenium nanoparticles. Conventional biological reactors usually simultaneously produce intracellular and extracellular elemental selenium nanoparticles or only produce intracellular selenium nanoparticles. Recovery of the intracellular selenium nanoparticles is commercially prohibitive due to high energy demand for separating the intracellular selenium from the biomass components. This work addressed the challenge for the first time by using a biocathode-based bioelectrochemical reactor that produced extracellular selenium nanoparticles only, which eliminated the need for separating the intracellular selenium from the biomass. The continuous-flow bioelectrochemical reactor removed >99.6% of the selenate at a selenate surface loading rate of 330 mg Se/m 2 -day, which was higher than that in most of the conventional biological reactors. The inoculum was a microbial consortium containing both intracellular and extracellular selenium-producing bacteria, but only extracellular selenium nanoparticles were observed when the biocathode was imaged by a transmission electron microscope. Raman spectrometry further demonstrated the existence of significant Cytochrome c (Cyt c) on the cathode, an enzyme that plays a key role in extracellular electron transfer and subsequent extracellular selenium production. Quantifying factors (e.g., internal resistance and overpotential loss) that affected the current shed light on strategies for increasing the selenate removal: periodical cleaning of the cation exchange membrane and using higher electron donor concentration in the anode chamber. The electron distribution in the anodic and cathodic chambers suggested insignificant interference by methanogenesis and sulfate reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Designing an efficient and effective air electrode catalyst material is the most intrinsic requisite for rechargeable lithium-oxygen (Li-O 2 ) batteries showing long cycling lives and high rate capacities. Here, we present for the first time, hierarchical multiroom-structured molybdenum carbide/carbon composite microspheres grafted with Ni nanoparticle-embedded N-doped carbon nanotubes (NCNTs) (i.e., mNi-NCNT-MoC-C), which are prepared by pilot-scale spray drying and subsequent surface growth of NCNT bundles. The designed mNi-NCNT-MoC-C microspheres show efficient bifunctional catalytic activities toward both oxygen reduction and evolution. In addition, the hierarchical multiroom structure of mNi-NCNT-MoC-C microspheres increases the discharge capacity by providing sufficient space to accommodate Li 2 O 2 , which forms during discharging. A Li-O 2 battery prepared using mNi-NCNT-MoC-C microspheres as an air electrode exhibits excellent electrochemical performances including a long cycle life (199 cycles) and low overpotentials of 0.20 and 0.21 V for charging and discharging, respectively. The synergetic effects of efficient morphology (i.e., the multiroom structure), highly electrocatalytically active materials (i.e., NCNT, Ni, and MoC), and high electrical conductivity (imparted by the NCNTs) is responsible for the superior performance of mNi-NCNT-MoC-C microspheres as an air cathode material for Li-O 2 batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Very different from traditional inside-out method, which used guest material as the inside core and then surface-coated outer layer, herein, we propose a facile and unique outside-in approach for the synthesis of high dispersive mesoporous silica nanoparticle (MSN)/MoS 2 -PEG nanoparticles (SMPs) based on the differences of precursor solubility in different solvents, for the first time. The prepared SMPs exhibit both higher drug loading efficiency of 64.7% owing to the pore structure of mesoporous silica, and excellent photothermal performance with photothermal efficiency of 41.5% due to the inside decorated MoS 2 nanosheets, which could be used for the combination of tumor hyperthermia and chemotherapy. The in vivo results indicate that SMPs show great synergistic effect, i.e. , the heat produced during PTT can increase the chemotherapy sensitivity of DOX and synergistically improve its therapeutic effect. Such a facile strategy provides a new facile way to construct a novel theranostic agent by integrating different functions into one dosage, and shows a promising approach for the construction of nanomaterials using MSN as a template. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work deals with the treatment of a tannery wastewater by a mixed-iron coated olive stone bio-sorbent particles. Olive stones were used as the support to zero-valent iron and magnetite nanoparticles to develop a new material for the removal of chromium, organic matter and total phenols from the wastewater. The optimal operating conditions were determined in batch reactors, after which the process was scaled-up using fixed-bed columns in series. The maximum adsorption capacity for both Cr(III) and Cr(VI), up to 8.37 and 4.29 mg g −1 , was attained for a sorbent mass concentration of 4 g L −1 , meaning a total chromium adsorption capacity of 12.66 mg g −1 , whereas equilibrium contact time was found to be 120 min. The combination of coated olive stones and hydrogen peroxide allowed to develop an heterogeneous Fenton process, that led to reach a COD removal efficiency of 58.4% and a total phenols removal of 59.2%, at H 2 O 2 /COD (w/w) = 0.875. In addition, re-use of the coated olive stones by regeneration with NaOH and C 2 H 2 O 4 solutions after 5 cycles was reported. The column process was successfully described by BDST and Thomas models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • AgNWs are deposited on the PDMS membrane to form nano-pores. • BCP eliminates solvent application limitations for SERS substrates. • The SERS substrate shows an LOD of 7.06 × 10−11 M. • The nano-pores of the SERS substrate can separate PS nanoparticles in solution. • The flexibility of the SERS substrate can be utilized for swab sampling. The potential of using flexible surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) for single polymer nanoparticle detection has been recognized, however, most studies have used SERS substrates consisting of metal nanoparticles (MNPs) on hard materials, which have limited volume analysis and can easily be damaged. To overcome these issues, researchers have conducted recent studies on flexible or 3D-structured SERS substrates. This study used polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membranes for flexible substrates, Ag nanowires (AgNWs) to form nano-pores, and PDMS-polyethylene glycol (PEG) block copolymer (BCP) to improve solvent application. The SERS substrates were able to detect rhodamine 6G (R6G) probes with a limit of detection (LOD) of 7.06 × 10−11 M, and were mechanically stable under various conditions such as bending, stretching, and torsion. The nano-pores of the SERS substrates could separate polystyrene (PS) particles from the solution, and filtered particles were visually distinguishable from AgNWs using a dark field microscope. The flexibility of the SERS substrates also allows for swab sampling of irregular surfaces. We were able to detect up to 10–10 M of crystal violet (CV) in the contaminated scallops and collect and detect PS in stainless-steel structures covered with 200 nm PS particles. Overall, the study shows the potential of using flexible SERS substrates for single polymer nanoparticle detection in various fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • RuO x (1 wt%)@UiO-66(Zr/Ce/Ti) photocatalyst is highly active for CO 2 methanation. • The UiO-66 metal node composition determines the photocatalytic activity. • The photocatalyst is reusable and stable under simulated sunlight irradiation for 88 h. • A dual photochemical and photothermal reaction mechanism is proposed. As there is an urgent need to produce solar fuels from CO 2 , we here report on the development of a series of multimetallic UiO-66(Zr/Ce/Ti) solids-supported RuO x nanoparticles as photocatalysts for selective gas phase CO 2 methanation by H 2 under simulated sunlight irradiation. The trimetallic UiO-66(Zr/Ce/Ti) based-photocatalyst exhibits higher activity (1,900 μmol g−1 of CH 4 after 22 h) than analogous mono- [UiO-66(Zr) or UiO-66(Ce)] and bimetallic [UiO-66(Zr/Ce) or UiO-66(Zr/Ti)] derivatives, as well as higher than previous reports on metal–organic frameworks (MOFs). The experimental evidence on the observed order of photocatalytic activity and insights into the occurrence of a dual photochemical and photothermal mechanism for the most active trimetallic sample were obtained by means of spectroscopic techniques including fluorescence and laser flash photolysis, photoelectrochemical and additional photocatalytic measurements. This study exemplifies the benefits of developing multimetallic MOF-supported metal nanoparticles to achieve high photocatalytic activity for solar-driven gas phase CO 2 conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]