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A double-sided light source based on field emission (FE) using an alternating current (ac) power source is demonstrated. Electrode plates acted as cathode or anode consisting an indium tin oxide glass, a screen-printed ZnS phosphor layer and urchin-like \alpha\-Fe2O3 emitters coated on the layer. Two pieces of the plates were assembled together with the coated surfaces facing each other to make a parallel-plate, diode-structure FE device with a gap distance of 300 \mum. The 1-cm^2 device shows a double-sided luminance distribution with a turn-on field of 2.2 V/\mum, 90.23% uniformity and a maximum luminance of 8750 cd/m^2 at 2 kV. The novel structure and ac model operation provide a double-sided luminance, high brightness, antiarcing, good thermal management, and long lifetime. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

An α-Fe2O3 nanobridge (NB) was laterally grown via the one-step thermal oxidation of 150 nm Fe film at 350 °C for 1 h in air atmosphere to form a NB field effect transistor (FET). The diameter of the as-grown NB was 7 nm, with a length of 170 nm. The electrical properties of the individual α-Fe2O3 NB were directly measured by microprobing the NB FET. The results show that the NB demonstrated N-type semiconductive behavior with a conductivity of 1.67 S/cm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] Synthesis ZnO thin film by simple method. [•] It can detect a minimum 50ppm NH3. [•] Its operation temperature can lower to 150°C. [•] Change the oxygen conc. to detect the NH3, and try to explain its mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The ratio of ZnS to AgInS2 is usually adjusted to tune the band gaps of this quaternary (Ag–In–Zn)S semiconductor to increase photocatalytic activity. In this study, the [Zn]/[Ag] ratio was kept constant. The hydrogen production rate was enhanced by increasing the content of indium sulfide. Compared to the steady H2 evolution rate obtained with equal moles of indium and silver ([In]/[Ag] = 1, 0.64 L/m2 h), that obtained with In-rich photocatalyst ([In]/[Ag] = 2, 3.75 L/m2 h) is over 5.86 times higher. The number of nanostep structures, on which the Pt cocatalysts were loaded by photodeposition, increased with the content of indium. The indium-rich samples did not induce phase separation between Ag x In x Zn y S2x+y and AgIn5S8, instead forming a single-phase solid solution. Although the photocatalytic activity decreased slightly for bare In-rich photocatalysts, Pt loading played a critical role in the hydrogen production rate. This study demonstrates the significant effect of In2S3 on this unique (Ag–In–Zn)S photocatalyst. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Platelet graphite nanofibers (PGNFs) were synthesized by thermal decomposition from a mixture containing polymer and catalyst. The hydrogen storage capacity of the material was measured using the volumetric method carried out at 298K at a pressure up to 4.83MPa. The results show that the PGNF possess a 3.3wt.% hydrogen storage capacity. The gaseous molecules were adsorbed between two graphene planes in the PGNFs and residual amounts of hydrogen were possession within PGNFs while pressure decreased to ambient conditions. X-ray diffraction was used to understand the PGNF structural modifications before and after hydrogen uptake. We found that the PGNF interlayer undergoes expansion and returns back to the initial value before and after hydrogen uptake. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The inhibitive effects of functional groups originating from the presence of additives on corrosion are linked to the physicochemical and electronic properties of these surficial chemical species. In this work, the acetoxy group (i.e. weak bases) with different orbital characters is integrated with donating/accepting molecules which reveals dissimilar inhibitive behaviour. Introducing cations on the acetoxy groups (-Ac) as additives leads to mitigation of undesirable self-corrosion of the anode. The Al-air battery corresponded to a maximum capacity of 2817 mAhg−1 at 10 mAcm−2 with the use of barium-Ac/KOH electrolyte, demonstrates nearly 95% of the theoretical capacity. However, a capacity of only 2392 mAhg−1 is observed for free additive. In addition, the maximum power density (i.e. 91.32 mWcm−2) increased by nearly 50% with the employment of barium-Ac/KOH. The rechargeable Al–air battery based on barium-Ac/KOH presents a low voltage gap of 0.83 V with a remarkable cyclic stability of 25,000 s. The results show that the acetoxy group integrated with metal ions can be a key player in reducing H 2 evolution rate in the aluminium-air batteries. XPS analysis confirmed an Al-complex (i.e. Al-acetoxy) is formed using barium-ac. DFT calculations confirmed that barium-Ac/KOH provides the minimum value of ΔE (about 5.4 eV), indicating the remarkable ability for reacting with Al+3 ions to adsorb on the anode surface leading to complex (Ba-Ac-Al3+) formation. This study highlights the parasitic corrosion reaction leading to low coulombic efficiency in rechargeable Al- air batteries. • The impacts of additive integrated with acetoxy group was studied on Al corrosion and H2 evolution. • The corrosion inhibition efficiency follows the order of: Ba-acetoxy > Ca-acetoxy > Ethyl-acetoxy. • Ba–Ac/KOH exhibited the optimum discharge capacity 2817 mAh/g and 95% Al utilization. • XPS results revealed a complex containing Al-acetoxy contribute to reduce Al self-corrosion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium-oxygen batteries (LOBs) promise high energy density but suffer from catalyst-related issues. We've developed FeNi-NCNT/DrGO, a novel catalyst, by integrating iron-nickel nanoalloys (FeNi) embedded in nitrogen-doped carbon nanotubes (NCNTs) grafted onto defect-rich reduced graphene oxide (DrGO). The fabrication involved freeze-drying, defect engineering, and thermal treatments. The FeNi nanoalloy within the catalyst demonstrates outstanding bifunctional activity, while the NCNTs serve as an excellent electronic conduction medium and DrGO enables favorable ion transport. The 3D open-space architecture of this catalyst provides a rapid diffusion path for the electrolyte and room for accommodating discharge products. As a result, the LOBs with FeNi-NCNT/DrGO exhibits exceptional electrochemical performance, achieving a deep discharge capacity of 21,153.6 mAh g−1 and a high round-trip efficiency of 98.7% at 200 mA g−1. Moreover, it demonstrates excellent cycling stability, exceeding 100 cycles at 200 mA g−1 with a cut-off capacity of 500 mAh g−1. [Display omitted] • FeNi-NCNT/DrGO was formed by freeze-drying, ball milling, and thermal treatment. • The catalyst shows superior ORR, OER, conductivity, ion diffusion and Li 2 O 2 storage. • LOB with the catalyst shows a capacity of 21153 mAhg−1 and 98.74% efficiency. • LOB exceeds 100 cycles at 200 mA g−1 with a cut-off capacity of 500 mAh g−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The commercialization of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) is hindering by the cost of noble metal catalysts. We are introducing A-Fe SAC -NC DS /rGO, a novel catalyst derived from metal-organic framework through carbonization and ammonia treatment. This catalyst is incorporating single iron atoms (Fe SAC) within dual-sized porous nitrogen-carbon frameworks (NC DS , 30 nm and 100 nm), supporting on reduced graphene oxide (rGO). The catalyst is providing abundant active sites, with NC DS increasing active site density and rGO enhancing material conductivity. Consequently, catalyst is exceling in the oxygen reduction reaction, boasting an onset potential of 0.807 V and a half-wave potential of 0.779 V, near benchmark Pt/C catalyst. PEMFC tests employing A-Fe SAC -NC DS /rGO achieved a power density of 780.7 mWcm−2 at 1.6 A cm−2 in an H 2 –O 2 system. In durability tests at 0.6 Acm−2 in H 2 -air, voltage loss was 28.68 % after 50 h. These results position the catalyst as a promising choice for PEMFC. [Display omitted] • A-Fe SAC -NC DS /rGO is derived from carbonization and ammonia treatment of MOFs. • Catalyst has abundant Fe SAC within dual-sized porous N-carbon supported on rGO. • Catalyst exhibits ORR LSV E onset and E 1/2 values close to the benchmark Pt/carbon. • PEMFC demonstrates a power density of 780.7 mWcm−2 at 1.62 Acm−2 in H 2 –O 2 system. • Durability test of PEMFC shows a voltage loss is 28.68 % at 0.6 Acm−2 after 50 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• A brief summary of challenges and underlying opportunities was expressed. • This paper highlights issues related to employ liquid electrolytes in ZABs. • Various suggestions to reduce dendrites formation and ZnO layer was presented. • Additives demonstrate as promising approach for liquid and polymer electrolytes. In the past few years, there has been a growing level of interest in the research and development of energy storage systems such as batteries. This is a direct consequence of the soaring rise in global energy demand across various commercial and industrial sectors. Lithium ion batteries have set out a feasible horizon for widespread deployment as small-scale energy storage devices due to their high efficiency and cyclability. However, the availability and cost of lithium have limited the commercial deployment of large-scale systems. On the other hand, zinc-air batteries have demonstrated comparable efficiencies and have been reported to be suitable replacements for lithium batteries in large-scale applications. Nevertheless, more research has been undertaken to address the issues associated with the cycling processes of these batteries. Secondary zinc-air batteries are yet to be commercially proven feasible due to the low charge/discharge cycle life of electrodes. The main problems of secondary alkaline zinc–air batteries are dendritic growth resulting in an alternation of morphology and structure, self-dissolution and the consequent occurrence of hydrogen evolution reactions. However, by and large, inefficient electrolytes are the main culprits responsible for the reduced performance of zinc-air batteries. Therefore, a comprehensive review of current advancements in the development of suitable electrolytes to promote zinc-air batteries towards commercial application will provide a perspective for future rechargeable zinc-air batteries. In this in-depth review, the effects of the types of electrolytes and their properties on the electrochemical performance of Zn anode have been discussed. A demonstration of the current research status and challenges set upon the large-scale deployment of zinc-air batteries will facilitate the educated steering of future research directions in this critically important realm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The electrospun fiber membrane has the highest CO 2 adsorption capacity of 3.42 mmol CO2 /g adsorbent at 30 °C. • The CO 2 adsorption membrane effectively filtered carbon dioxide (400 ppm in air) for up to 16 h. • Zinc-air battery with the CO 2 adsorption membrane exhibited a higher discharge capacity. Zinc-air batteries (ZABs) are an important option for energy storage applications because of their high specific capacity. However, when ZABs are operated in ambient air, the CO 2 (400 ppm) in the air can react with the alkaline electrolyte, forming carbonates, which shorten the battery lifetime. In this work, we fabricated an electrospun polystyrene (PS)/polyethylenimine (PEI) fiber membrane to capture CO 2 from ambient air before the air is admitted into a ZAB to enhance battery performance. The result show that the PS/PEI fibers have a CO 2 adsorption capacity of 3.42 mmol CO2 /g adsorbent or 7.58 mmol CO2 /g PEI at room temperature. The fibers retain 91% of their initial CO 2 adsorption capacity after 15 cycles of the adsorption–desorption process. A ZAB cell equipped with PS/PEI fibers exhibited a better discharge capacity (802 mA h/g) compared to that of a ZAB without the fibers (762 mA h/g). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A Fe-Ni-Zn triple single atom catalyst is an excellent bifunctional catalyst for ORR and OER. • XAS and TEM studies confirm Fe, Ni and Zn SAC atomically dispersed in the matrix. • The SAC(Fe,Ni,Zn) with an optimal Fe/Ni ratio of 5:5 is used for ZAB. • The battery has good specific capacity(809 mAh/g @ 50 mA cm−2) and excellent power density of 300 mW cm−2 @ 406 mA cm−2. • A rechargeable Zn-air battery has superior cycle stability with 2150 cycles (358.3 h). The rechargeable Zn-air battery (ZAB) is a promising device for energy storage. A good bifunctional catalyst for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) plays a decisive role in the ZAB. Here, we prepare a Fe-Ni-Zn triple single-atom catalyst (SAC) anchored in the nitrogen-doped porous carbon framework (NC) denoted as SAC(Fe, Ni, Zn)/NC or A-SAC(Fe, Ni, Zn)/NC (ammonia-treated) for the ZAB study. We found that not only Fe-N x , Ni-N x , and Zn-N x act as excellent catalytic sites for ORR and OER, but the synergetic effect by the three adjacent SAC(Fe, Ni, Zn) in the NC enhances the catalytic performance. As a result, the voltage difference (ΔE) of 0.75 V is achieved (half-wave potential of ORR: 0.88 V and the potential of OER at 10 mA cm−2: 1.63 V). In the rechargeable ZAB study, the battery with the A-SAC(Fe, Ni, Zn)/NC has a good specific capacity of 809 mAh/g @ 50 mA cm−2, the excellent power density of 300 mW cm−2 @ 406 mA cm−2 and superior cycle stability (2150 cycles, 358.3 h @ 10 mA cm−2) while the all-soild-state ZAB showed promising power density of 64.5 mW cm−2 and acceptable cycling durability over 25 h@1 mA cm−2. Triple SAC(Fe, Ni, Zn) in the hierarchical porous NC possesses the bifunctional catalytic capability, high ionic diffusivity, and electron conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urchin-like α-Fe 2 O 3 microspheres (radial α-Fe 2 O 3 nanowires on α-Fe 2 O 3 microspheres) are used as field emitters for a flat-panel lighting device with a lateral-gate-electrode structure. The urchin-like α-Fe 2 O 3 microspheres are in situ grown on the cathode electrode via thermal oxidation at 350 °C for 12 h after the screen-printing of pattern Fe microspheres on the cathode electrode. The lateral-gate triode structure comprises an Ag cathode and a pair of Ag gate electrodes screen-printed laterally on both sides of the cathode. The role of the gate electrodes is to enhance the emission current and increase luminance uniformity and that of the anode electrode is to control the luminance intensity. The radial nanowire emitters on the spheres ensure good field emission performance without any pretreatment and in situ growth of the material enhances the contact between the electrode and the material. The microspheric emitters and the lateral-gate structure, which covers a small part (4.32%) of the printed area over the entire panel (3.5 cm × 5 cm) leads to, high luminance, excellent luminance uniformity and tunable luminance characteristics of the field-emission light source. A maximum luminance of 8330 cd/m 2 and a luminance uniformity of 92.4% are achieved with a gate voltage of 500 V, an anode voltage of 4000 V, and the anode current of 1.32 mA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous rechargeable Zn-ion batteries (ARZIB) are promising candidates for next-generation batteries because of their high safety, low cost, and relatively high capacity. In this study, we developed hydrated and potassium-doped manganese dioxide (MO) nanowires mixed with carbon nanotubes (CNT) on a graphene substrate (hydrated KMO-CNT/graphene) for ARZIB. A simple polyol process using poly(ethyl glycol), KMnO 4 , CNT, and graphene was utilized to fabricate hydrated KMO-CNT/graphene. MnO 2 nanowires with diameters of 15–25 nm possess a high specific capacity with a short diffusion path. The intercalated K ions and hydrates in the layered MnO 2 nanowires maintained the MO structure during the charge and discharge processes, whereas carbon nanomaterials (CNT and graphene) enhanced the conductivity of the material. Consequently, hydrated KMO-CNT/graphene demonstrated good ARZIB performance. A high capacity of 359.8 mAh g–1 at 0.1 A g–1, and at a high current density of 3.0 A g–1, a capacity of 129 mAh g–1 with 77% retention after 1000 cycles, were achieved. • Hydrated and potassium-doped MnO 2 mixed with CNT on graphene substrate is synthesized. • Polyol process was conducted with PEG, KMnO 4 , CNT and graphene. • MnO 2 has a high capacity, intercalated K and H 2 O keep the structure of MnO 2 and CNT/graphene provide conductivity. • The hydrated KMO-CNT/graphene delivers high specific capacities of 359.8 mAh g–1 at 0.1 A g–1 and 129 mAh g–1 at 3.0 A g–1 with 77% retention. • The performance of ZIB reaches a high energy density of 410.36 Wh kg–1 at 109.93 W kg–1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urchin-like CuO microstructures were formed using simple, template-free, one-step thermal oxidation of Cu solid microspheres in an air atmosphere at temperatures ranging from 350 to 500 °C. The urchin-like CuO microstructure consists of crystalline CuO nanowires grown radially on the surface of the sphere, a shell layer of CuO a few micrometers in thickness, and a hollow core. Study of the formation mechanism revealed that during oxidation, the nanowires grow from the surface, and the diameter, length, and population density of the nanowires increase with the oxidation time. For a sample formed at 450 °C for a dwell time of 24 h, the average diameter, length, and population density of the nanowires were 44.0 nm, 11.5 μm, and 25 nanowires/μm 2 , respectively. The novel urchin-like structure and high aspect ratio of the nanowires elicit unique properties. Study of the magnetic properties revealed that the urchin-like CuO is a semihard magnetic material with a coercive force of 135 Oe. Studies on the field-emission characteristics of the material demonstrated that an urchin-like emitter had a low turn-on field of 2.94 V/μm, a high field enhancement factor of 3715, a high luminance of 11,080 cd/m 2 , an excellent emission uniformity of over 3.5 × 3.5 cm 2 , and high emission stability during a 50-h test at a current density of 100 μA/cm 2 . [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The novel CNT-CoFe/NC and CNT-CoS 2 Fe/NC was fabricated by thermal treatments and vulcanization. • CNT-CoFe/NC shows a better ORR performance than Pt/C while CNT-CoS 2 Fe/NC shows a better OER performance than RuO 2. • The hybrid catalysts, CNT-CoFe/NC + CNT-CoS 2 Fe/NC, demonstrate a superior performance of rechargeable Zn-air battery. Catalysts with embedded and functionalized elements used for the effective control of oxygen-reduction (ORRs) and oxygen-evolution reactions (OERs) are the key to developing high-performance rechargeable Zn–air batteries (ZABs). Here, carbon nanotube-grafted, Co–Fe embedded, nitrogen-doped porous carbon nano-frameworks (CNT–Co–Fe/NC) were synthesized through the carbonization of Fe-doped zeolitic imidazolate frameworks and vulcanization of the CNT–Co–Fe/NC to form CNT–CoS 2 –Fe/NC. The CNT–CoS 2 –Fe/NC exhibited a superior OER performance with an overpotential of only 1.637 mV at a current density of 10 mA/cm2 and a Tafel slope of 197 mV/dec (which, for RuO 2 , is 112 mV/dec), whereas the CNT–Co–Fe/NC showed an excellent ORR performance with a Tafel slope of 71 mV/dec (which, for 20 wt% Pt/C, is 91 mV/dec). A ZAB was developed with a hybrid catalyst of 50 wt% CNT–Co–Fe/NC and 50 wt% CNT–CoS 2 –Fe/NC in the cathode, and it achieved an excellent specific discharge capacity of 814 mAh/g at 50 mA/cm2, high power density of 245 mW/cm2, and outstanding cycle stability of over 1800 cycles (300 h) at 10 mA/cm2 with a very high retention of 95% and small potential gap of 0.68 V, compared to the corresponding values of 803.7 mAh/g, 215.3 mW/cm2, 900 cycles: retention 92%, and potential gap 0.837 V for 150 h for the ZAB with a hybrid catalyst of Pt/C + RuO 2. It is hypothesized that the ZAB with the novel hybrid catalyst exhibits its excellent catalytic activity and durability as a result of the synergistic effect of the catalyst's embedded heteroatoms and nitrogen–metal/carbon framework that enhances the ORR/OER performance, porous carbon nano-framework that enables rapid diffusion and electrical conduction, and carbon nanotubes that complete the external electrical connection between the catalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Graphene quantum dots (GQDs) were formed by liquid-phase exfoliation in an ultrasonic bath using platelet graphite nanofibers (PGNFs) as the raw material and dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as the exfoliation agent. PGNFs, carbon fibers with graphene nanosheets stacked perpendicular along the fiber axis, were sectioned layer by DMSO for 3 h with ultrasonic assistance to create GQDs. The diameters of the derived GQDs were in the range of 10–30 nm and fewer than five graphene layers were formed. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis revealed that no functional groups were grafted onto the GQDs during the process, indicating that the synthetic route produced high-quality GQDs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Development of lithium metal based anode through novel Semi-infusion technique. • Ni mesh to be act as a host material to accommodate li ions during stripping/plating. • The symmetrical Li/SnO 2 -Ni cell revealed a low voltage gap of ∼ 8 mV over 2000 h at 1 mA cmˉ2 and 1 mAh cmˉ2. • Full cell cycling performance of the Li/SnO 2 -Ni with LFP delivered a specific capacity of 170 mAh gˉ1 with an excellent stability. Lithium metal battery is a promising candidate for the next generation batteries due to its high theoretical specific capacity and energy density. However, the dendritic propensity of Li metal and inevitable volume variation are critical obstacles for commercialization. Here, we prepare a novel anode that Li infused partially into the tin oxide coated Ni mesh (Li/SnO 2 -Ni) by semi-infusion strategy. The strategy can provide an adequate but not excessive amount of Li in the host for the battery. The SnO 2 -Ni mesh abates the dendritic formation and volume variation due to its lithiophilic property, three-dimensional (3-D) structure, and excellent conductivity guiding the Li-ion deposition and stripping uniformly during cycling. As a result, Li/SnO 2 -Ni cell can cycle a long span with an exceptionally low voltage gap of 8, 15, and 200 mV at a different current density and of 1, 3, and 35 mA cm−2, and a capacity of 1, 1 and 5 mAh cm−2, respectively, in a symmetrical cell. The performance of full cell against LiFePO 4 cathode achieves a superior capacity of 173 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C and the retention of 90 % after 70 cycles. This work offers a facile and effective strategy to fabricate a 3-D composite anode and promotes the practical applications of Li metal batteries. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A double-sided surface light source based on field emission (FE) using an alternating current power source is demonstrated. Carbon-nanotube (CNT) emitters and ZnS phosphor are mixed and screen-printed onto two pieces of indium tin oxide glass that were assembled together with the coated surfaces facing each other to make a parallel-plate, diode-structure FE device. The device has a double-sided luminance distribution with a turn-on field of 2V/μm, a good uniformity, and a stable luminance of 4000cd/m2. The results show that CNTs not only act as good field emitters but also as an electrically conductive network around the isolated phosphors. The network prevents electric arcing and thus extends the lifetime of the device. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The 3D mesoporous, well crystalline RuO2 film prepared via the evaporation-induced self-assembled method (EISA) successfully demonstrates the extremely high power performances (e.g., excellent capacitive behavior at 10,000mVs−1, ultrahigh-frequency capacitive responses (the absence of a knee point in the Nyquist plot), and 2.6MWkg−1 with an acceptable energy density of 4.6Whkg−1). These excellent capacitive performances were identified by means of voltammetric and electrochemical impedance spectroscopic (EIS) analyses. The mesoporous (with mean pore spacing of 18.1nm) and crystalline nature of this film was characterized by means of the field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), Brunaur–Emmett–Teller (BET) method, small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXRS), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), electron diffraction (ED), and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses. This mesoporous, well crystalline RuO2 film constrains the redox transition to the superficial region meanwhile the tailored mesoporous structure increases the electrochemically active centers, promotes the penetration of electrolytes, provides the “proton reservoirs”, and enhances the rate of electron transport simultaneously for the ultrahigh power application. The specific capacitance of this mesoporous RuO2 can be enhanced from 84 to 185Fg−1 after the microwave-assisted hydrothermal treatment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

• Development of lithium-metal-based anodes based on Li infusion technique is reviewed. • Several three-dimensional substrates designed to withhold molten Li are discussed. • The roles of porosity, lithiophilicity, and conductivity for anodes are discussed. • Unsolved issues and further research considerations are summarized. Lithium-metal-based anodes (LMA) are known to be most propitious for high-energy rechargeable batteries owing to their extremely high theoretical specific capacity (3860 mAh/g) and low electrode potential. Despite this, uncontrollable dendrite growth and large volume change are regarded as the main barriers to their commercialization. Various approaches for anode modification have been proposed to overcome these barriers. Unfortunately, the formation of short filamentous dendrites with various morphologies is still a problem to be addressed. For constructing stable anodes, lithium infusion is considered to be the most efficient strategy for confining the growth of dendrites and volume change. In this review, we dedicate recent advancements in a variety of porous substrates and their impacts on lithium infusion. We firmly believe that this review could dispense an effective facet for mitigating the mentioned issues and excel the superior performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: A red-emitting phosphor material, Gd2Ti2O7:Eu3+, V4+, by added vanadium ions is synthesized using the sol–gel method. Phosphor characterization by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy shows that the phosphor possesses a good crystalline structure, while scanning electron microscopy reveals a uniform phosphor particle size in the range of 230–270nm. X-ray photon electron spectrum analysis demonstrates that the V4+ ion promotes an electron dipole transition of Gd2Ti2O7:Eu3+ phosphors, causing a new red-emitting phenomenon, and CIE value shifts to x=0.63, y=0.34 (a purer red region) from x=0.57, y=0.33 (CIE of Gd2Ti2O7:Eu3+). The optimal composition of the novel red-emitting phosphor is about 26% of V4+ ions while the material is calcinated at 800 °C. The results of electroluminescent property of the material by field emission experiment by CNT-contained cathode agreed well with that of photoluminescent analysis. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The influence of various sulphur-oxygen (SO) group additives has been investigated in retarding the self-corrosion of Al anode in a 4M KOH solution, in order to effectively enhance the overall performance. The studied additives in this work were all found to be capable of decreasing H 2 evolution, and could mitigate aluminium self-corrosion, with the corrosion inhibition towards the cathodic protection process. The less pitting corrosion and holes were observed for inorganic additives in comparison to the organic counterparts. The Al-air batteries demonstrated an improvement in the discharge capacities: 2604, 2393, 2348 and 2048 mAh g−1 for Na 2 SO 4 , Na 2 SO 3 , C 2 H 6 SO, and C 6 H 5 SO 2 OH, respectively, in comparison to that associated with the 4M KOH (2021 mAh g−1). K 2 S 2 O 8 , an inorganic additive, exhibited a hydrogen evolution efficiency of 21%, but the lowest discharge performance (1973 mAh g−1). This may be due to the instability of the anions in redox reactions. The low inhibition efficiency of the hybrid additives in Al self-corrosion, when compared to single additives, may be ascribed to the involvement of Al3+ in complex formation of the inorganic-organic hybrid additives. A stable discharge-charge cycling test over 6 h with a voltage gap of around 0.7 V is observed for Na 2 SO 4 , demonstrating the efficient performance compared to the additive-free KOH electrolyte. It could be concluded that efficient additives containing SO group, successfully mitigated the self-corrosion and hydrogen evolution associated with the Al anode that was confirmed with DFT results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, composites incorporating NiO-Co 3 O 4 (NC) and CuO-NiO-Co 3 O 4 (CNC) as active electrode materials were produced through the hydrothermal method and their performance was investigated systematically. The composition, formation, and nanocomposite structure of the fabricated material were characterized by XRD, FTIR, and UV-Vis. The FE-SEM analysis revealed the presence of rod and spherical mixed morphologies. The prepared NC and CNC samples were utilized as supercapacitor electrodes, demonstrating specific capacitances of 262 Fg -1 at a current density of 1 Ag -1 . Interestingly, the CNC composite displayed a notable long-term cyclic stability 84.9%, which was observed even after 5000 charge-discharge cycles. The exceptional electrochemical properties observed can be accredited to the harmonious effects of copper oxide addition, the hollow structure, and various metal oxides. This approach holds promise for the development of supercapacitor electrodes. These findings collectively indicate that the hydrothermally synthesized NC and CNC nanocomposites exhibit potential as high-performance electrodes for supercapacitor applications.

Low temperature rechargeable batteries are important to life in cold climates, polar/deep-sea expeditions, and space explorations. Here, this work reports 3.5-4 V rechargeable lithium/chlorine (Li/Cl 2 ) batteries operating down to -80 °C, employing Li metal negative electrode, a novel carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) activated porous carbon (KJCO 2 ) as the positive electrode, and a high ionic conductivity (≈5-20 mS cm -1 from -80 °C to room-temperature) electrolyte comprised of aluminum chloride (AlCl 3 ), lithium chloride (LiCl), and lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI) in low-melting-point (-104.5 °C) thionyl chloride (SOCl 2 ). Between room-temperature and -80 °C, the Li/Cl 2 battery delivers up to ≈29 100-4500 mAh g -1 first discharge capacity (based on carbon mass) and a 1200-5000 mAh g -1 reversible capacity over up to 130 charge-discharge cycles. Mass spectrometry and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy probe Cl 2 trapped in the porous carbon upon LiCl electro-oxidation during charging. At -80 °C, Cl 2 /SCl 2 /S 2 Cl 2 generated by electro-oxidation in the charging step are trapped in porous KJCO 2 carbon, allowing for reversible reduction to afford a high discharge voltage plateau near ≈4 V with up to ≈1000 mAh g -1 capacity for SCl 2 /S 2 Cl 2 reduction and up to ≈4000 mAh g -1 capacity at ≈3.1 V plateau for Cl 2 reduction., (© 2023 Wiley-VCH GmbH.)

Advancing new ideas of rechargeable batteries represents an important path to meeting the ever-increasing energy storage needs. Recently, we showed rechargeable sodium/chlorine (Na/Cl 2 ) (or lithium/chlorine Li/Cl 2 ) batteries that used a Na (or Li) metal negative electrode, a microporous amorphous carbon nanosphere (aCNS) positive electrode, and an electrolyte containing dissolved aluminum chloride and fluoride additives in thionyl chloride [G. Zhu et al. , Nature 596 , 525-530 (2021) and G. Zhu et al. , J. Am. Chem. Soc. 144 , 22505-22513 (2022)]. The main battery redox reaction involved conversion between NaCl and Cl 2 trapped in the carbon positive electrode, delivering a cyclable capacity of up to 1,200 mAh g -1 (based on positive electrode mass) at a ~3.5 V discharge voltage [G. Zhu et al. , Nature 596 , 525-530 (2021) and G. Zhu et al. , J. Am. Chem. Soc. 144 , 22505-22513 (2022)]. Here, we identified by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) that upon charging a Na/Cl 2 battery, chlorination of carbon in the positive electrode occurred to form carbon-chlorine (C-Cl) accompanied by molecular Cl 2 infiltrating the porous aCNS, consistent with Cl 2 probed by mass spectrometry. Synchrotron X-ray diffraction observed the development of graphitic ordering in the initially amorphous aCNS under battery charging when the carbon matrix was oxidized/chlorinated and infiltrated with Cl 2 . The C-Cl, Cl 2 species and graphitic ordering were reversible upon discharge, accompanied by NaCl formation. The results revealed redox conversion between NaCl and Cl 2 , reversible graphitic ordering/amorphourization of carbon through battery charge/discharge, and probed trapped Cl 2 in porous carbon by XPS.

Developing new types of high-capacity and high-energy density rechargeable batteries is important to future generations of consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and mass energy storage applications. Recently, we reported ∼3.5 V sodium/chlorine (Na/Cl 2 ) and lithium/chlorine (Li/Cl 2 ) batteries with up to 1200 mAh g -1 reversible capacity, using either a Na or a Li metal as the negative electrode, an amorphous carbon nanosphere (aCNS) as the positive electrode, and aluminum chloride (AlCl 3 ) dissolved in thionyl chloride (SOCl 2 ) with fluoride-based additives as the electrolyte [Zhu et al., Nature , 2021 , 596 (7873), 525-530]. The high surface area and large pore volume of aCNS in the positive electrode facilitated NaCl or LiCl deposition and trapping of Cl 2 for reversible NaCl/Cl 2 or LiCl/Cl 2 redox reactions and battery discharge/charge cycling. Here, we report an initially low surface area/porosity graphite (DGr) material as the positive electrode in a Li/Cl 2 battery, attaining high battery performance after activation in carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) at 1000 °C (DGr_ac) with the first discharge capacity ∼1910 mAh g -1 and a cycling capacity up to 1200 mAh g -1 . Ex situ Raman spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD) revealed the evolution of graphite over battery cycling, including intercalation/deintercalation and exfoliation that generated sufficient pores for hosting LiCl/Cl 2 redox. This work opens up widely available, low-cost graphitic materials for high-capacity alkali metal/Cl 2 batteries. Lastly, we employed mass spectrometry to probe the Cl 2 trapped in the graphitic positive electrode, shedding light into the Li/Cl 2 battery operation.

Anode-free lithium-metal batteries employ in situ lithium-plated current collectors as negative electrodes to afford optimal mass and volumetric energy densities. The main challenges to such batteries include their poor cycling stability and the safety issues of the flammable organic electrolytes. Here, a high-voltage 4.7 V anode-free lithium-metal battery is reported, which uses a Cu foil coated with a layer (≈950 nm) of silicon-polyacrylonitrile (Si-PAN, 25.5 µg cm -2 ) as the negative electrode, a high-voltage cobalt-free LiNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4 (LNMO) as the positive electrode and a safe, nonflammable ionic liquid electrolyte composed of 4.5 m lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI) salt in N-methyl-N-propyl pyrrolidiniumbis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (Py 13 FSI) with 1 wt% lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) as additive. The Si-PAN coating is found to seed the growth of lithium during charging, and reversibly expand/shrink during lithium plating/stripping over battery cycling. The wide-voltage-window electrolyte containing a high concentration of FSI - and TFSI - facilitates the formation of stable solid-electrolyte interphase, affording a 4.7 V anode-free Cu@Si-PAN/LiNi 0.5 Mn 1.5 O 4 battery with a reversible specific capacity of ≈120 mAh g -1 and high cycling stability (80% capacity retention after 120 cycles). These results represent the first anode-free Li battery with a high 4.7 V discharge voltage and high safety., (© 2022 Wiley-VCH GmbH.)

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are widely used in applications ranging from electric vehicles to wearable devices. Before the invention of secondary LIBs, the primary lithium-thionyl chloride (Li-SOCl 2 ) battery was developed in the 1970s using SOCl 2 as the catholyte, lithium metal as the anode and amorphous carbon as the cathode 1-7 . This battery discharges by lithium oxidation and catholyte reduction to sulfur, sulfur dioxide and lithium chloride, is well known for its high energy density and is widely used in real-world applications; however, it has not been made rechargeable since its invention 8-13 . Here we show that with a highly microporous carbon positive electrode, a starting electrolyte composed of aluminium chloride in SOCl 2 with fluoride-based additives, and either sodium or lithium as the negative electrode, we can produce a rechargeable Na/Cl 2 or Li/Cl 2 battery operating via redox between mainly Cl 2 /Cl - in the micropores of carbon and Na/Na + or Li/Li + redox on the sodium or lithium metal. The reversible Cl 2 /NaCl or Cl 2 /LiCl redox in the microporous carbon affords rechargeability at the positive electrode side and the thin alkali-fluoride-doped alkali-chloride solid electrolyte interface stabilizes the negative electrode, both are critical to secondary alkali-metal/Cl 2 batteries., (© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Limited.)