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High-energy global requirements have caused a renewed interest in studying and developing new and improved energy storage devices and, precisely, the electrode materials that compose them, which play a fundamental role in determining the device's performance. Carbon materials are first-class candidates due to their high electrical conductivity, chemical stability, and surface area. Although several carbon materials and their precursors have been studied, melamine sponges stand out for their nitrogen content, allowing them to act as a template and precursor for N-doped, ultralight carbon materials with good mechanical properties and a controlled pore size distribution. This work reports a simple and quick methodology to form ultralight and flexible carbon foam, along with the influence of the pyrolysis temperature on the physicochemical and electrochemical properties of 3D carbonaceous substrates used for energy storage and synthesized from melamine sponges. The substrates exhibit higher 3D porous structure than previously reported materials, with an average pore diameter of 80–90 µm. This morphology, added to the N content, promotes the remarkable electrochemical behavior (MS–950 °C) and cycling stability (MS–1000 °C) of almost 100% of capacitance retention after 10,000 cycles (≈ 60 F/g @1 A/g). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing cost-effective, high-efficiency, and stable hole transporting materials (HTMs) is crucial for replacing traditional spiro-OMeTAD in perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and achieving sustainable solar energy solutions. This work presents two novel air-stable HTMs based on a spiro[fluorene-9,9′-xanthene] (SFX) core functionalized with N-methylcarbazole (XC2-M) and N-hexylcarbazole (XC2-H) rings. These HTMs were synthesized via a straightforward, three-step process with good overall yields (∼40%) and low production costs. To further reduce device cost, carbon back electrodes were employed. The resulting PSCs, with a structure of FTO/SnO2/Cs0.05FA0.73MA0.22Pb(I0.77Br0.23)3/HTM/C achieved power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 13.5% (XC2-M) and 10.2% (XC2-H), comparable to the reference spiro-OMeTAD device (12.2%). The choice of alkyl chain on the HTM significantly impacts film morphology and device stability. The XC2-H device exhibited exceptional long-term stability, retaining approximately 90% of its initial PCE after 720 h of storage in 30–40% humidity air without encapsulation. This surpasses the performance of both the spiro-OMeTAD (55% retention) and XC2-M (68% retention) devices. The superior stability of XC2-H is attributed to its highly hydrophobic nature and the formation of a compact, smooth film due to interdigitation of the hexyl chains. The straightforward synthesis of XC2-H from commercially available materials offers a promising approach for large-scale PSC production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two‐step sequential deposition is a widespread technique for the fabrication of perovskite films, renowned for its better control of the crystallization process. However, achieving a well‐controlled and complete reaction of PbI2 by organic ammonium salts remains a key challenge. Previous studies have predominantly focused on regulating the properties of the PbI2 layer while paying less attention to the high reactivity of organic ammonium salts. In this study, the natural molecule anethole is first explored to control perovskite crystallization during two‐step sequential deposition, focusing on the reactivity modulation of organic formamidine ion (FA+). It is demonstrated that FA+ exhibits strong hydrogen bond interactions with anethole, inhibiting the high reactivity of FA+ and effectively delaying the rapid reaction between FAI and PbI2. This decelerates the crystallization kinetics of perovskite films, facilitating the orderly and complete reaction of PbI2 by FAI while suppressing detrimental δ‐phase formation. Consequently, FA‐based perovskite films with high crystallinity, preferred orientation, and low defect state density are obtained. The fabricated planar hole transport layer‐free carbon electrode perovskite solar cells deliver an efficiency of 20.41% (certified efficiency of 20.0%), which is a new record for this kind of solar cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have attracted widespread attention due to their low cost and high efficiency. So far, a variety of single‐junction PSCs have been successfully developed and considered for commercialization, including normal PSCs (N‐PSCs), inverted PSCs (I‐PSCs), and carbon‐based PSCs (C‐PSCs) without hole transporter. Herein, the material cost, equipment depreciation cost, and energy consumption of these three types of PSCs (1 m2) in detail are analyzed. As indicated, the total fabrication cost of the N‐PSCs ($86.49) and I‐PSCs ($81.31) is very close, but is significantly reduced to $41.16 for the C‐PSCs (49%–52% reduction) because carbon electrode is much cheaper than noble metal electrode and organic hole transporter. Besides, only a low‐cost slot‐die coating process with low energy consumption is needed for the deposition of carbon electrode, while the expensive physical vapor deposition and reactive plasma deposition processes with high energy consumption are needed for the deposition of the noble metal electrode and organic hole transporter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benefiting from their simple and cost‐effective fabrication procedures, printable mesoscopic perovskite solar cells (p‐MPSCs) exhibit substantial potential for large‐scale production. In p‐MPSCs, the thickness of the perovskite filled in the TiO2 and ZrO2 mesoporous layers is ≈3 µm. Therefore, the perovskite crystallization process is more intricate and challenging in the mesoporous structure than the general planar thin film (0.3–0.5 µm). In this work, a multifunctional fluorinated molecule is applied to work as an additive to improve the perovskite crystallization, enhance the device efficiency, and elevate the operational stability. This additive forms robust coordination between its carbonyl groups and uncoordinated Pb2+, thereby effectively passivating defects. The hydrophobic properties of the fluorinated molecule contribute to the device's water‐resistant capability and long‐term operational stability. With these synergistic effects, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of small‐area cells (0.1 cm2) reaches 20.15% under 1 sun illumination. Large‐area modules (56.4 cm2) are fabricated and exhibit a PCE of 15.41%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon electrodes are widely used for battery and electrolysis due to wide potential window and chemical stability. The carbon electrode made from carbon material ink using printing process is expected as electrode with low cost and large area. Therefore, we have developed carbon material inks and printed electrode by combining micro-wave treated graphite oxide (MwGO) and screen-printing method. However, the MwGO electrodes exhibited low water resistance. Cellulose nanofiber is mixed into the MwGO ink to improve water resistivity. As a result, increase in water resistance is achieved with maintaining electrical conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inorganic CsPbI3 perovskite has exhibited great application potential in perovskite solar cells (PSCs) due to its suitable optical bandgap and high chemical stability. However, the perovskite phases of CsPbI3 are not stable at room temperature, where they transition to non-perovskite phases. Humidity or water has been thought to be the primary factor inducing this phase transition, which should be avoided throughout the procedure of film and device processing. Surprisingly, the present study indicates that preparing a precursor solution in humid air is beneficial to the growth of high-quality CsPbI3 perovskite to enhance device performance. It is demonstrated that the incorporation of H2 O in the precursor solution from humid air or by intentional addition significantly changes the composition of coordination compounds and increases the amount of low iodine coordination complexes. As a result, the crystallization of dimethylammonium lead iodide (DMAPbI3) intermediate is suppressed well, which accelerates its subsequent conversion to CsPbI3 perovskite. Consequently, an oriented CsPbI3 perovskite film with improved crystallinity and lower defect density is obtained. Most importantly, carbon-based PSCs (C-PSCs) based on the CsPbI3 perovskite film achieve an efficiency of 16.05%, a new record for inorganic C-PSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Developing cost-effective, high-efficiency, and stable hole transporting materials (HTMs) is crucial for replacing traditional spiro-OMeTAD in perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and achieving sustainable solar energy solutions. This work presents two novel air-stable HTMs based on a spiro[fluorene-9,9′-xanthene] (SFX) core functionalized with N-methylcarbazole (XC2-M) and N-hexylcarbazole (XC2-H) rings. These HTMs were synthesized via a straightforward, three-step process with good overall yields (∼40%) and low production costs. To further reduce device cost, carbon back electrodes were employed. The resulting PSCs, with a structure of FTO/SnO2/Cs0.05FA0.73MA0.22Pb(I0.77Br0.23)3/HTM/C achieved power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 13.5% (XC2-M) and 10.2% (XC2-H), comparable to the reference spiro-OMeTAD device (12.2%). The choice of alkyl chain on the HTM significantly impacts film morphology and device stability. The XC2-H device exhibited exceptional long-term stability, retaining approximately 90% of its initial PCE after 720 h of storage in 30–40% humidity air without encapsulation. This surpasses the performance of both the spiro-OMeTAD (55% retention) and XC2-M (68% retention) devices. The superior stability of XC2-H is attributed to its highly hydrophobic nature and the formation of a compact, smooth film due to interdigitation of the hexyl chains. The straightforward synthesis of XC2-H from commercially available materials offers a promising approach for large-scale PSC production.

As an inorganic halide perovskite (IHP), CsPbI2Br has generated enormous publicity due to its suitable optical bandgap (≈1.92 eV) and thermal stability. Unfortunately, the terrible phase stability of CsPbI2Br film will cause a phase change in a wet environment and decelerate light response, seriously hindering the progression of IHP photovoltaics. Herein, a synergistic postmodification strategy with CsBr and MABr to achieve high‐quality CsPbI2Br film at a low‐temperature (≈150 °C) and positive perovskite/carbon interface is presented. Adding a small amount of MABr can promote the crystallization of perovskite. The evaporated CsBr accumulates on the grain boundaries and surface of CsPbI2Br and forms Br‐rich perovskite, which provides the protection of CsPbI2Br and segregation of water vapor. The carbon‐based perovskite solar cell (C‐PeSC) with the modified CsPbI2Br harvests a high power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 11.04%. Notably, the unpackaged cell maintains 81% of its original PCE after being stored for 21 days in an air atmosphere with 25–35% humidity. Flexible devices are further manufactured, whose PCE drops to 90% of the initial value during 150 bending cycles. The flexible device also exhibits excellent blue photodetection performances. The maximum responsivity and detection reach 0.68 A W−1 and 8.91 × 1012 Jones, respectively. These findings provide broader avenues for flexible IHP in multifunctional devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The planar triple‐layer hole transport layer (HTL)‐free carbon‐based perovskite solar cells (C‐PSCs) have outstanding advantages of low cost and high stability, but are limited by low efficiency. The formation of a 3D/2D heterojunction has been widely proven to enhance device performance. However, the 2D perovskite possesses multiple critical properties associated with 3D perovskite, including defect passivation, energy level, and charge transport properties, all of which can impact device performance. It is challenging to find a powerful means to achieve comprehensive regulation and trade‐off of these key properties. Herein, we propose a chain‐length engineering of alkylammonium spacer cations to achieve this goal. The results show that the 2D perovskite formed by short‐chain alkylammonium cations primarily acts to passivate defects. With the increase in cation chain length, the 2D perovskite achieves a more matched energy level with 3D perovskite, enhancing the built‐in electric field and promoting charge separation. However, the further increase in chain length impedes the charge transport due to the insulativity of organic cations. Comprehensively, the 2D perovskite formed by tetradecylammonium cations achieves the optimal balance of defect passivation, interface charge separation, and charge transport. The planar HTL‐free C‐PSCs exhibit a new record efficiency of 20.40 % (certified 20.1 %). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of a lithiophilic electrode proves inadequate in describing carbon‐based electrode materials due to their substantial mismatch in surface energy with lithium metal. However, their notable capacity for lithium chemisorption can increase active lithium concentration required for nucleation and growth, thereby enhancing the electrochemical performance of lithium metal anodes (LMAs). In this study, we elucidate the effects of the supersaturated electrode which has high active lithium capacity around equilibrium lithium potential on LMAs through an in‐depth electrochemical comparison using two distinct carbon electrode platforms with differing carbon structures but similar two‐dimensional morphologies. In the supersaturated electrode, both the dynamics and thermodynamic states involved in lithium nucleation and growth mechanisms are significantly improved, particularly under continuous current supply conditions. Furthermore, the chemical structures of the solid‐electrolyte‐interface layers (SEIs) are greatly influenced by the elevated surface lithium concentration environment, resulting in the formation of more conductive lithium‐rich SEI layers. The improved dynamics and thermodynamics of surface lithium, coupled with the formation of enhanced SEI layers, contribute to higher power capabilities, enhanced Coulombic efficiencies, and improved cycling performances of LMAs. These results provide new insight into understanding the enhancements in heterogeneous lithium nucleation and growth kinetics on the supersaturated electrode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study of the degradation of diclofenac (DCF) in an electrochemical reactor equipped with two carbon cloth (CC) electrodes operating in recirculation mode, is presented. The analysis of the effects of the operating variables on the degradation of the DCF showed that, as expected, the applied voltage has a direct influence on the reactions that take place at the anode and cathode. In fact, the addition of O2 and Fe(II) to the medium demonstrated that the electro-Fenton (EF) process was taking place and that under the following conditions, 4 V, 0.05 M Na2SO4, 50 mg/L DCF, 0.25 g Fe(II)-loaded resin, and 50 mL/min, 79.8% of DCF mineralization was obtained in a process described by a pseudo-first order kinetics (k = 0.0184 min−1). Using a simulated domestic wastewater effluent, the EF reactor under study not only showed a similar DCF mineralization value (81.8%), but also reasonable energy consumption (2.16 kWh/m3) as well as CC electrode stability upon several treatment cycles. These results suggest that an EF approach using low-cost CC electrodes and neutral pH conditions, constitute a technically and economically viable option for DCF wastewater treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Capacitive deionization (CDI) is flourishing as an energy-efficient and cost-effective water desalination method. However, challenges such as electrode degradation and fouling have hindered the practical deployment of CDI technology. To address these challenges, the key point of our strategy is applying a hydrophilic coating composed of polyethylene glycol (PEG)-functionalized nano-TiO 2 /polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) to the electrode interface (labeled as APPT electrode). The PEG/PVDF/TiO 2 layer not only mitigates the co-ion depletion, but also imparts the activated carbon (AC) electrode hydrophilicity. As anticipated, the APPT electrode possessed an enhanced desalination capacity of 83.54 μmol g−1 and a low energy consumption of 17.99 Wh m−3 in 10 mM sodium chloride solution compared with the bare AC electrode. Notably, the APPT maintained about 93.19 % of its desalination capacity after 50 consecutive adsorption–desorption cycles in the presence of bovine serum albumin (BSA). During the trial, moreover, no obvious overall performance decline was noted in concentration reduction (Δc), water recovery (WR) and productivity (P) over 50 cycles. This strategy realizes energy-efficient, antifouling and stable brackish water desalination and has great promise for practical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Compared with organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cells (PSCs), carbon-based all-inorganic PSCs have the advantages of low preparation cost, simple process, and good thermal stability. Here, three polar materials of 4-tert-Butylpyridine halides (tBPX: X = Cl, Br, I) are modified between the perovskite absorbent layer and the carbon electrode. On the one hand, the introduction of tBPX effectively improves the dielectric constant of perovskite nanocrystals and reduces the carrier trapping ability of defects. On the other hand, the structural–functional groups act on the perovskite interface, effectively passivate the surface defects of the perovskite nanoscale thick film, and reduce the nonradiative recombination loss of carriers. In addition, the interface modification of tBPX forms a hydrophobic protective barrier, which significantly improves the moisture resistance of the device. As a result, the carbon-based CsPbI2Br PSCs achieve a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 14.39%, which is higher than 12.79% of the pristine device. The optimized device can maintain more than 80% of the original efficiency after 800 h of aging under a 20 ± 5% relative humidity in the atmospheric environment. Therefore, it provides an idea for the preparation of efficient and stable carbon-based all-inorganic PSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of analytical methods for the rapid detection of noxious species in forensic, environmental and biological samples is a global trend. This work reports a new, portable and low‐cost electroanalytical method for the ultrasensitive detection of bromadiolone using pencil graphite electrode (PGE) and square‐wave adsorptive stripping voltammetry (SWAdSV). Bromadiolone exhibited an irreversible cathodic peak at around −0.8 V in acid medium (2.5 to 5.5), which was unreported in literature until now. Considering this novel electrochemical behavior, a redox reaction mechanism for bromadiolone reduction on PGE is proposed. The limit of detection (LOD) obtained was 0.50 nmol L−1, which is close or lower than those obtained in some chromatographic methods utilized for analyzing biological samples. This LOD is also below the value recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) regarding analytical methods employed to detect bromadiolone in environmental/biological samples. A linear response was observed in the concentration range from 2.0 to 100.0 nmol L−1. Quantitative assays performed in spiked samples of surface water and synthetic urine suggested good accuracy (recoveries between 93 and 107 %) and great precision (relative standard deviations were ≤3.9 %). Furthermore, the method was successfully applied for the screening of bromadiolone in real forensic samples, which is an approach unexplored in previous works. In this sense, the proposed PGE‐SWAdSV method described here shows great potential for the rapid and sensitive detection of bromadiolone in forensic, biological and environmental fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The key to the practical application of organometal–halide crystals perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is to achieve thermal stability through robust encapsulation. This paper presents a method to significantly extend the thermal stability lifetime of perovskite solar cells to over 5000 h at 85 °C by demonstrating an optimal combination of encapsulation methods and perovskite composition for carbon-based multiporous-layered-electrode (MPLE)-PSCs. We fabricated four types of MPLE-PSCs using two encapsulation structures (over- and side-sealing with thermoplastic resin films) and two perovskite compositions ((5-AVA)x(methylammonium (MA))1−xPbI3 and (formamidinium (FA))0.9Cs0.1PbI3), and analyzed the 85 °C thermal stability followed by the ISOS-D-2 protocol. Without encapsulation, FA0.9Cs0.1PbI3 exhibited higher thermal stability than (5-AVA)x(MA)1−xPbI3. However, encapsulation reversed the phenomenon (that of (5-AVA)x(MA)1−xPbI3 became stronger). The combination of the (5-AVA)x(MA)1−xPbI3 perovskite absorber and over-sealing encapsulation effectively suppressed the thermal degradation, resulting in a PCE value of 91.2% of the initial value after 5072 h. On the other hand, another combination (side-sealing on (5-AVA)x(MA)1−xPbI3 and over- and side-sealing on FA0.9Cs0.1PbI3) resulted in decreased stability. The FACs-based perovskite was decomposed from these degradation mechanisms by the condensation reaction between FA and carbon. For side-sealing, the space between the cell and the encapsulant was estimated to contain approximately 1,260,000 times more H2O than in over-sealing, which catalyzed the degradation of the perovskite crystals. Our results demonstrate that MA-based PSCs, which are generally considered to be thermally sensitive, can significantly extend their thermal stability after proper encapsulation. Therefore, we emphasize that finding the appropriate combination of encapsulation technique and perovskite composition is quite important to achieve further device stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inorganic cesium lead halide perovskites (CsPbIxBr3−x, 0≤x≤3) are promising alternatives with great thermal stability. Additionally, the choice of moisture‐resistive and dopant‐free carbon as the electrode material can simultaneously solve the problems of stability and cost. Therefore, carbon electrode‐based inorganic PSCs (C‐IPSCs) represent a promising candidate for commercialization, yet both the efficiencies and stability of related devices demand further progress. This article reviews the recent advancement of C‐IPSCs and then unravels the distinctive merits and limitations in this field. Subsequently, our perspective on various modification strategies is analyzed on a methodological level. Finally, this article outlooks the promising research contents and the remaining unresolved issues in this field. We believe that understanding and analyzing the related problems in this field are instructive to stimulate the future development of C‐IPSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An economic route for the generation of hydrogen and utilization of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) was achieved by CH 4 cracking over 20 wt%Ni/FER catalyst. The deactivated catalyst demonstrated electrical conductivity and hydrogen storage properties. TEM images displayed open mouths of CNFs and XRF data showed nearly 70% of nickel was recovered from the deactivated catalyst. Impedance studies of the CNFs exhibit prominence as battery electrodes due to their significant conductivity in the presence of nickel. While the hydrogen storage capacity was around 0.151 mmol (g cat)−1 of H 2 on the obtained CNFs, it was increased to 0.361 mmol (g cat)−1 upon Ni recovery from the CNFs. A seven-fold increase in the H 2 storage of ∼0.862 mmol (g cat)−1 was obtained upon Li doping, exhibiting its distinct property as a hydrogen storage material. The fresh, reduced, used, and deactivated catalysts were characterized by BET-SA, H 2 -TPR, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, TEM, and H 2 pulse chemisorption and Ni/FER was established as an economically viable catalyst for high rates of H 2 and CNF production. [Display omitted] • Cracking of CH 4 produced pure H 2 and CNFs over Ni/Ferrierite. • Deactivated Ni/Ferrierite catalyst showed good electrical conductivity. • Ni recovered deactivated Ni/Ferrierite exhibited excellent H 2 storage capacity. • H 2 storage capacity was tremendously improved upon Li doping. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All-inorganic CsPbI2Br, as a promising photovoltaic (PV) material, have attracted extensive research attention in society for its outstanding thermal stability and appropriate trade-offs. Carbon-based perovskite solar cells (C-PSCs) without hole transporting layer (HTL) have shown great potential in terms of cost-effectiveness and stability. However, the inevitable defects on the surface of CsPbI2Br films severely hampers the development of high-efficiency CsPbI2Br C-PSCs. Surface engineering has emerged an effective approach to overcome this challenge. Herein, 1-decyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (DMTT) ionic liquid was introduced between CsPbI2Br and carbon electrode to reduce non-recombination of charges, decrease defect states, minimize the energy-level mismatch, and greatly enhance the device stability. As a result, the HTL-free CsPbI2Br C-PSCs combined with DMTT as an interface modification achieved a higher power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 12.47% than that of the control devices with a PCE of 11.32%. Furthermore, without any encapsulation, the DMTT-optimized C-PSC remained approximately 84% of its initial PCE after over 700 h under room temperature and 25% relative humidity (RH) conditions. Additionally, when exposed to a temperature of 65 °C for over 400 h, the device still retained 74% of the initial PCE, demonstrating its thermal stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Defects formed at the surface, buried interface and grain boundaries (GB) of CsPbI 3 perovskite films considerably limit photovoltaic performance. Such defects could be passivated effectively by the most prevalent post modification strategy without compromising the photoelectric properties of perovskite films, but it is still a great challenge to make this strategy comprehensive to different defects spatially distributed throughout the films. Herein, a spatially selective defect management (SSDM) strategy is developed to roundly passivate various defects at different locations within the perovskite film by a facile one-step treatment procedure using a piperazine-1,4-diium tetrafluoroborate (PZD(BF 4) 2) solution. The small-size PZD2+ cations could penetrate into the film interior and even make it all the way to the buried interface of CsPbI 3 perovskite films, while the BF 4 − anions, with largely different properties from I− anions, mainly anchor on the film surface. Consequently, virtually all the defects at the surface, buried interface and grain boundaries of CsPbI 3 perovskite films are effectively healed, leading to significantly improved film quality, enhanced phase stability, optimized energy level alignment and promoted carrier transport. With these films, the fabricated CsPbI 3 PSCs based on carbon electrode (C-PSCs) achieve an efficiency of 18.27%, which is among the highest-reported values for inorganic C-PSCs, and stability of 500 h at 85 °C with 65% efficiency maintenance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

CsPbI3 perovskite is a promising light absorber in perovskite solar cells (PSCs) due to its suitable bandgap (Eg) and high chemical stability, but the perovskite phase is metastable in ambient atmosphere and prone to defect formation. To enhance phase stability and reduce defects, forming a low dimensional (LD) perovskite on CsPbI3 has proved effective. However, the energy levels for most of low‐conductivity LD perovskites are not very compatible with those of CsPbI3, which will impair charge separation and device performance. Herein, a new 1D perovskite (5‐Azaspiro[4.4]nonan‐5‐ium lead triiodide, ASNPbI3) with compatible energy levels and a large Eg is reported as a capping layer. The p‐type ASNPbI3 forms a p‐n heterojunction with n‐CsPbI3 with a staggered band alignment, considerably enhancing the carrier separation. Besides, by pre‐forming a ASNPbI3 at an intermediate stage, defects are suppressed in perovskite film. Consequently, the CsPbI3 PSCs based on carbon electrode without hole transporter (C‐PSCs) achieves a PCE of 18.34%, which is among the highest‐reported values for inorganic C‐PSCs. Furthermore, the hydrophobic ASNPbI3 capping layer has a high thermal stability that greatly enhances perovskite phase stability. Hence, the CsPbI3 C‐PSCs maintains 68% of its initial PCE after 400 h aging at 85°C in a N2 glovebox. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon-based perovskite solar cells (C-PSCs) are promising candidates for large-scale photovoltaic applications due to their theoretical low cost and high stability. However, the fabrication of high-performance C-PSCs with large-area electrodes remains challenging. In this work, we propose a novel playdough-like graphite putty as top electrode in the perovskite devices. This electrode with soft nature can form good contact with the holetransporting layer and the conductive substrate at room temperature by a simple pressing technique, which facilitates the fabrication of both small-area devices and perovskite solar modules. In this preliminary research, the corresponding small devices and modules can achieve efficiencies of 20.29% (~0.15 cm²) and 16.01% (~10 cm²), respectively. Moreover, we analyze the limitations of the optical and electrical properties of this playdough-like graphite electrode on the device performance, suggesting a direction for further improvement of C-PSCs in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we demonstrate a facile, durable and inexpensive technique of producing silver nanoparticles-decorated multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT/AgNP) on the easy-to-use screen-printed carbon electrodes (SPCE) for non-enzymatic detection of uric acid (UA) in an electrochemical sensor. The developed sensors show great durability for three months in storage, and high specificity performance for preclinical study using spiked UA in a synthetic urine sample. A simple route for this hybrid nanocomposite was proposed through an oxidation–reduction with reflux (ORR) process. A significant increase in the electroactive surface area of SPCE was achieved by modifying it with MWCNT/AgNP. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed this synthesis. The nanocomposite nanostructure electrodes achieved an outstanding UA detection with sensitivity of 0.1021 μ A μ M−1 and a wide dynamic range of 10–1000 μ M. In phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), the measurements achieved a detection limit of 84.04 nM while in pure synthetic urine; it was 6.074 μ M. The constructed sensor exhibits excellent stability and durability for several months, and great specificity against interfering compounds, including dopamine (DA), urea, and glucose. Overall, the present outcomes denote the potential of MWCNT/AgNP-decorated SPCE for early uric acid diagnostics tools in health monitoring. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Planar n–i–p carbon perovskite solar cells (PSCs) with a hole transport layer that can be fabricated at low temperatures at low‐cost exhibit great potential for large‐scale manufacturing. Moreover, 2D perovskites have attracted considerable attention owing to their higher stability. In this work, scalable and highly efficient fully printed large‐area carbon electrode‐based 2D perovskite modules are reported through the insertion of a thin naphthaleneimide derivative (CATNI)‐based interfacial layer between tin (IV) oxide and the perovskite layer. The results show that this facilitates the formation of the interfacial contact, suppresses energy losses, and substantially improves the performance parameters of the PSCs, especially their VOC value. A significantly enhanced VOC of 1.13 V is achieved resulting in the device PCE value reaching over 18%, which is one of the highest reported for fully printed PSCs so far. It is found that with the deployment of this CATNI‐based interfacial layer, a more efficient carrier extraction is achieved. This ultimately contributed to enhanced spectral response as well as improved VOC for these carbon electrodes based on fully printed devices. Finally, the carbon‐perovskite solar modules (carbon‐PSMs) are fabricated on ITO glass substrates with dimensions of 5.0 × 5.0 cm. These prepared modules exhibited outstanding photovoltaic performance with the highest PCE value of over 14.6%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the growing global increase in electronic and electrical waste (e‐waste), significant challenges arise regarding the proper disposal of electronic devices. One potential solution that has gained attention is the development of disposable electronics, in which all components are designed to be for safe and environmentally friendly disposal. In this study, all‐carbon‐based complementary integrated circuits composed of printed single‐crystalline thin films of p‐ and n‐type organic semiconductors, graphite‐based carbon electrodes/wiring, and polymeric dielectrics/substrates are demonstrated. Elemental analysis reveals that the total amount of metallic element contaminants weighed <50 parts per million (ppm). The demonstrated analog/digital integrated circuits with 64 p‐ and n‐type organic thin‐film transistors exhibit stable operation under ambient environmental conditions. These all‐carbon‐based complementary integrated circuits possess excellent element traceability, thus mitigating the potential environmental impacts throughout the device's life cycle. Consequently, this advancement represents a significant step toward addressing the global environmental challenges associated with e‐waste. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fully printable carbon-based multiporous-layered-electrode perovskite solar cells (MPLE-PSCs) are easy to fabricate and have excellent durability. In this study, the porosity of the mesoporous TiO2 layer as the electron transport layer in MPLE-PSCs was controlled by varying the particle diameter of TiO2 nanoparticles from 14 nm to 98 nm. Furthermore, the results of absorbed photon-to-current conversion efficiency, visible light reflectance spectroscopy, pore-size distribution, X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and photovoltaic parameters of MPLE-PSCs are discussed. Although the porous TiO2 layer with smaller nanoparticles showed higher photoabsorption, it was found that the more voids of perovskite crystals created in the TiO2 porous layer, the smaller the particle size (<18 nm). The porous TiO2 layers with particles over 26 nm are well filled with perovskite crystals, resulting in a higher photovoltaic capacity with TiO2 particles over 26 nm. As a result, the short-circuit current density (JSC) showed a maximum value using 43 nm TiO2 particles, with an average power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 10.56 ± 1.42%. Moreover, the PCE showed a maximum value of 12.20% by using 26 nm TiO2 nanoparticles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulfate is a typical characteristic pollutant in mine water. Because of its high concentration and large discharge of mine water, it has become a difficult problem in mineral exploitation. Capacitive deionization (CDI) is an innovative and economical removal technology. There are few reports on the use of CDI to remove SO42− from mine water. In this study, a CeO2 activated carbon electrode with good wettability, excellent electrochemical performance, and suitable pore structure was prepared by the sol-gel method. The application of the CeO2 activated carbon electrode to the capacitive method for treating high SO42− mine water was investigated using simulated wastewater and actual mine water. The study structure shows that CeO2:activated carbon (AC) has the best wettability, the highest specific capacitance, and the lowest electrical conductivity when the mass ratio of CeO2 is 5%. At 100 mg/L, the electrode has the maximum SO42− ion specific adsorption capacity (SAC). At 1 V and 20 mL/min, this value is measured. The electrode has a SAC value of 9.36 mg/g, far higher than the AC electrode's 4.1 mg/g. The effect of CDI process factors such the voltage, flow rate, and initial concentration was studied to find the best treatment method. SAC retention is 91% after 10 adsorption–desorption cycles, demonstrating outstanding electrode performance. Under the best CDI process (1.4 volts, 30 mL/min), mine water was treated. After 20 cycles of treatment, the concentration of SO42− in mine water decreased from 1170 mg/L to 276.46 mg/L, and the removal rate was 76.37%. This study proved that the CeO2 modified activated carbon electrode capacitance method can effectively remove sulfate ions and other ions from mine water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The presence of TiO2 used as an efficient electron transport layer is crucial to achieving high-performance solar cells, especially for a hole transport material (HTM)-free carbon-based perovskite solar cell (PSC). The hydrolysis of TiCl4 is one of the most widely used routes for forming TiO2 layer in solar cells, which includes the stock solution preparation from TiCl4 initial precursor and the thermal hydrolysis of the stock solution. The second thermal hydrolysis step has been extensively studied, while the initial hydrolysis reaction in the first step is not receiving sufficient attention, especially for its influence on the photovoltaic performance of HTM-free carbon-based devices. In this study, the role of TiCl4 stock solution in the growth process of TiO2 layer is examined. Based on the analysis of the Ti(IV) intermediate states for different TiCl4 concentrations from Raman spectra, 2 M TiCl4 precursor exhibits moderate nucleation and growth kinetics without generating too many intermediates which occurs in 3 M TiCl4 precursor, yielding ∼300 nm size spherical TiO2 agglomerates with a rutile phase. In the aspect of devices, the HTM-free carbon-based PSCs fabricated using 2 M TiCl4 precursor deliver a conversion efficiency beyond 17%, which may be attributed to the reduced defect in compact TiO2 layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskite solar cells have led the new surge of solar energy research. However, their instability is a pressing issue mostly attributed to the perovskite interface with charge‐selective transport layers. In this work, diethylammonium iodide (DEAI) surface treatment is used to mitigate interfacial non‐radiative recombination losses by forming a mixed phase of layered perovskite on the surface. This results in enhanced device performance with the power conversion efficiency of 23.3% and improved operational stability under thermal stress. Moreover, the DEAI treatment facilitates interfacial hole transfer, enabling a carbon‐based hole transport layer‐free perovskite solar cell with a power conversion efficiency of 15.6%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are expected to be comparable to silicon-based solar cells. However, the high efficiency of PSCs relies on expensive and unstable organics as a hole transport layer (HTL). Here, inorganic layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are chosen as the HTL. LDHs can be better dispersed in organic solvents due to rich hydroxyl groups, conducive to improving PSC quality. Importantly, the LDH layer can perform energy level matching between the perovskite layer and the carbon electrode to improve the hole extraction efficiency and reduce the recombination of electrons and holes. The above synergistic effect of LDHs makes the efficiency of the all-air treated carbon-based PSCs prepared using LDH as HTL achieve champion efficiency of 10.7%. Although the value is not so high, the simple preparation process and low cost confirm LDH as a potential alternative to expensive organic HTLs in the commercialization of PSC. We introduced layered double hydroxides as a hole transport layer into carbon-based perovskite solar cells, which have improved power conversion efficiency and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Perovskite solar cells offer a promising future for next‐generation photovoltaics owing to numerous advantages such as high efficiency and ease of processing. However, two significant challenges, air stability, and manufacturing costs, hamper their commercialization. This study proposes a solution to these issues by introducing a floating catalyst‐based carbon nanotube (CNT) electrode into all‐inorganic perovskite solar cells for the first time. The use of CNT eliminates the need for metal electrodes, which are primarily responsible for high fabrication costs and device instability. The nanohybrid film formed by combining hydrophobic CNT with polymeric hole‐transporting materials acted as an efficient charge collector and provided moisture protection. Remarkably, the metal‐electrode‐free CNT‐based all‐inorganic perovskite solar cells demonstrated outstanding stability, maintaining their efficiency for over 4000 h without encapsulation in air. These cells achieved a retention efficiency of 13.8%, which is notable for all‐inorganic perovskites, and they also exhibit high transparency in both the visible and infrared regions. The obtained efficiency was the highest for semi‐transparent all‐inorganic perovskite solar cells. Building on this, a four‐terminal tandem device using a low‐band perovskite solar cell achieved a power conversion efficiency of 21.1%. These CNT electrodes set new benchmarks for the potential of perovskite solar cells with groundbreaking device stability and tandem applicability, demonstrating a step toward industrial applications.

The key to the practical application of organometal–halide crystals perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is to achieve thermal stability through robust encapsulation. This paper presents a method to significantly extend the thermal stability lifetime of perovskite solar cells to over 5000 h at 85 °C by demonstrating an optimal combination of encapsulation methods and perovskite composition for carbon-based multiporous-layered-electrode (MPLE)-PSCs. We fabricated four types of MPLE-PSCs using two encapsulation structures (over- and side-sealing with thermoplastic resin films) and two perovskite compositions ((5-AVA)x(methylammonium (MA))1−xPbI3 and (formamidinium (FA))0.9Cs0.1PbI3), and analyzed the 85 °C thermal stability followed by the ISOS-D-2 protocol. Without encapsulation, FA0.9Cs0.1PbI3 exhibited higher thermal stability than (5-AVA)x(MA)1−xPbI3. However, encapsulation reversed the phenomenon (that of (5-AVA)x(MA)1−xPbI3 became stronger). The combination of the (5-AVA)x(MA)1−xPbI3 perovskite absorber and over-sealing encapsulation effectively suppressed the thermal degradation, resulting in a PCE value of 91.2% of the initial value after 5072 h. On the other hand, another combination (side-sealing on (5-AVA)x(MA)1−xPbI3 and over- and side-sealing on FA0.9Cs0.1PbI3) resulted in decreased stability. The FACs-based perovskite was decomposed from these degradation mechanisms by the condensation reaction between FA and carbon. For side-sealing, the space between the cell and the encapsulant was estimated to contain approximately 1,260,000 times more H2O than in over-sealing, which catalyzed the degradation of the perovskite crystals. Our results demonstrate that MA-based PSCs, which are generally considered to be thermally sensitive, can significantly extend their thermal stability after proper encapsulation. Therefore, we emphasize that finding the appropriate combination of encapsulation technique and perovskite composition is quite important to achieve further device stability.

Ion liquid is one of the eco-friendly solvent which has many special properties such as high viscosity, low vapor pressure and incombustibility and also has the polarity which can dissolve the perovskite precursor and thus it has a potency which can replace the toxic solvent including dimethylformamide (DMF) and dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO). This work researched the characteristics of perovskite and the influence on the performance of hole transport material-free perovskite solar cells with carbon electrode when we use ion liquid – methylammonium acetate (MAAc) as the solvent of precursor. Perovskite film prepared by using ion liquid is more even and denser than one using DMF and we could improve its crystallinity and increase the crystal size of perovskite. Analysis result shows that the nonradiative recombination of devices was decreased and the open circuit voltage could be improved when we using MAAc instead of DMF. The efficiency of device is 15.16%; higher than the control (13.18%) and especially its stability was maintained 90% of initial value after 1500 h without any seal when the relative humidity was 80%.

Capacitive deionization (CDI) is an emerging electrochemical‐based adsorption system that has a high capability for the water reclamation with future potential towards an energy‐efficient and cost‐effective technique for industrial implementations. However, the higher cost of electrodes and poor performance limit its scale‐up, and there is a need to focus on a cost‐effective electrode towards economic impacts. Among the various waste resources, plastic sources would be the better precursor for carbonization as the plastic‐derived carbon possess enhanced surface properties and high electrochemical stability. Further, the carbonization of plastic products towards electrode minimizes greenhouse gas emissions, maintains environmental sustainability and achieves a dual benefit of circular economy with water reclamation. This paper highlights the overview of CDI, the significance of electrodes in CDI for electrosorption studies, various synthetic routes of plastic‐derived carbon, and its properties that help the researchers to focus on zero waste discharge‐based CDI process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review aims to elucidate recent developments in electrochemical sensors that use functionalized carbon electrodes with molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) for the selective detection of organic compounds in diverse fields including pharmacy, food safety, environmental monitoring of pollutants, and biomedical analysis. The main targets include explosive compounds, dyes, antioxidants, disease biomarkers, pharmaceuticals, antibiotics, allergens, pesticides, and viruses. Following a brief overview of the molecular imprinting principle, the most significant applications are explored. The selection of the functional monomer is subsequently discussed. Notably, various types of carbon electrodes are presented, with a particular emphasis on screen-printed carbon electrodes. The most commonly employed techniques for MIP deposition such as electropolymerization, drop casting, and chemical grafting are introduced and discussed. Electrochemical transduction techniques like cyclic voltammetry, differential pulse voltammetry, square wave voltammetry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy are presented. Lastly, the review concludes by examining potential future directions and primary limitations concerning carbon electrodes modified with MIPs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Dual‐ion battery is a new type of battery in which both anions and cations participate in the energy storage process. However, this unique battery configuration imposes high requirements on the cathode, which typically presents a poor rate performance due to the sluggish diffusion dynamics and intercalation reaction kinetics of anions. Herein, we report petroleum coke‐based soft carbon as the cathode for dual‐ion batteries, exhibiting a superior rate performance with a specific capacity of 96 mAh g−1 at a rate of 2 C and 72 mAh g−1 remained even at 50 C. In situ XRD and Raman demonstrate that the anions can directly form lower‐stage graphite intercalation compounds during the charge process owing to the surface effect, skipping the long evolutionary process from higher to lower stage, thus significantly improving the rate performance. This study highlights the impact of the surface effect and provides a promising perspective for dual‐ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are regarded as a promising next‐generation photovoltaic technology. However, poor device stability limits their commercialization. Carbon‐based inorganic PSCs (C‐IPSCs) can meet stability challenge owing to the absence of organic components. Meanwhile, the hydrophobic carbon materials as hole transport layers and back electrodes simplify fabrication process, decrease costs, and protect devices from moisture erosion. Since the first attempt for C‐IPSCs in 2016, a series of strategies have been proposed to improve device performance, including the fabrication technique optimization, solvent engineering, composition engineering, interface engineering, charge transport layer optimization, and so on, and the power conversion efficiency of C‐IPSCs are rapidly increased from initial 5% to exceeding 15%. In this review, the recent progress of C‐IPSCs is summarized, the existing challenges in this field are discussed, followed by a prospect for future development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon electrode perovskite solar cell has great potential in commercial application based on its low cost, superior stability, and facile fabrication process. However, its performance still lags behind that of devices with gold anode, which greatly attributes to the insufficient charge transport and collection at carbon anode side. Herein, efficient anode buffer contact is built by constructing an organic/inorganic composite hole transport bilayer together with strategic carbon precovering/postcovering anode. Adding a charge selective polythiophene (P3HT) layer between perovskite and nickel oxide (NiOx) can reduce charge transfer recombination loss, inhibit moisture infiltration, and crystallographically protect the perovskite underneath from being corroded by carbon paste. Together with a dense and pin-hole free hole transport layer (HTL)/carbon contact through precovering diluted carbon paste, the modified anode buffer interfaces also promote a facilitated charge collection, thus enhancing the photovoltaic performance of low-cost carbon electrode perovskite solar cells to a state-of-the-art value of 20.8% with an enhanced operational stability. This work provides adaptable and robust anode buffer interfaces for efficient, stable and low cost carbon electrode perovskite cells toward commercialization.

This article reports a strategy to use nitrogen-doped carbon materials as electrodes for supercapacitors. Depending on the carbon precursor, the porous structure is changed with specific surface area reached up to 2270 m2 g−1. The capacitance of carbon materials used as electrodes is related strictly to pore size. The microstructure and nitrogen functionalities enable a high capacitance (327 F g−1) and cycle durability. The nanoporous carbon electrode exhibits long-term cycle life and high cycle stability with a retention of 86% of its initial after 10,000 cycles in neutral electrolyte. Highly porous carbons are thus considered a promising material for supercapacitors.