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The electrochemical property of Mo2C nanoparticles (NPs) depends on the structure and crystal planes. Herein, Mo2C nanoparticles were prepared and dispersed on carbon nanosheets by the construction of a biomass-derived carbon precursor, and the exposed dual crystal planes were also controlled by optimal conditions. The structure, compositions, and morphology of the carbon-based Mo2C were characterized, and the Mo2C NPs were well dispersed on the carbon nanosheets. The electrochemical study shows that optimal Mo2C exhibits excellent electrochemical properties for the oxidation of nicotine compared with other materials in the broad linear range of 0.2–300 μM. In particular, it displays a remarkable oxidation ability for the low-concentration nicotine (0.2–5 μM), and the detection limit is about 0.17 μM. Furthermore, the exposed dual crystal planes of Mo2C play a critical role in the oxidation. Notably, this characteristic of Mo2C NPs makes it possible to detect nicotine from the extracted solution and be used for chip electrodes to detect nicotine quickly via wireless response, which exhibits actual application prospects for portable detection. The results indicate that the as-prepared Mo2C material could be effective and low-cost for nicotine analysis in the sectors of health management and medical fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In simulations, particles are traditionally treated as rigid platforms with variable sizes, shapes, and interaction parameters. While this representation is applicable for rigid core platforms, particles consisting of soft platforms (e.g., micelles, polymers, elastomers, and lipids) inevitably deform upon application of external stress. We introduce a generic model for flexible particles, which we refer to as MetaParticles (MPs). These particles have tunable properties, can respond to applied tension, and can deform. A MP is represented as a collection of Lennard-Jones beads interconnected by spring-like potentials. We model a series of MPs of variable sizes and symmetries, which we subject to external stress, followed by relaxation upon stress release. The positions and the orientations of the individual beads are propagated by Brownian dynamics. The simulations show that the mechanical properties of the MPs vary with size, bead arrangement, and area of applied stress, and share an elastomer-like response to applied stress. Furthermore, MPs deform following different mechanisms, i.e., small MPs change shape in one step, while larger ones follow a multi-step deformation pathway, with internal rearrangements of the beads. This model is the first step toward the development and understanding of particles with adaptable properties with applications in the biomedical field and in the design of bioinspired metamaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The spontaneous exchange bias effect (SEB) has wide application prospects in information storage technologies. In this study, nanoscale raw materials were used to fabricate antiferromagnetic Fe3BO6 polycrystals. The obtained Fe3BO6 exhibited a large SEB effect, where the value of the spontaneous exchange bias field at room temperature was as large as ∼4234 Oe. The room-temperature training effect, temperature-dependence, and maximum field-dependence of the HSEB were investigated. We propose that this giant SEB originates from the exchange-coupling interactions between the weak ferromagnetic surface state and the bulk antiferromagnetic state. The theoretical analysis results were further verified by comparing the magnetic properties of the Fe3BO6 with relatively low crystallinity. The results of this investigation will help find promising candidate materials for devices based on the SEB effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The in situ growth dynamics of colloidal silver–gold core–shell (Ag@Au CS) nanoparticles (NPs) are studied using time-dependent second harmonic generation (SHG) and extinction spectroscopy. Four sequential additions of chloroauric acid, sodium citrate, and hydroquinone are added to a silver nanoparticle solution to form a gold shell around a 45 nm silver core under different reaction conditions, resulting in final sizes ranging from 80 to 125 nm in diameter. In the first addition, a bumpy, urchin-like surface morphology is produced, while the second, third, and fourth additions provide additional nanoparticle growth with the surface morphology becoming more smooth and uniform, as shown using transmission electron microscopy measurements. The in situ extinction spectra increase in intensity for each addition, where blue-shifting and spectral narrowing are observed as the Ag@Au CS NPs grow in size. The extinction spectra are compared to Mie theory simulations, showing general agreement at later stages of the reactions for smooth CS surfaces. The in situ SHG signal is dominated by surface-enhanced plasmonic hotspots at the early stages of the shell growth, followed by gradual decreases in signal as the surface becomes more smooth. Two-photon fluorescence is also monitored during the CS growth, showing complementary information for comparisons to the extinction and SHG results. The holistic study of the synthesis and characterization of Ag@Au CS nanoparticles using in situ SHG spectroscopy, extinction spectroscopy, and Mie theory simulations allows for a comprehensive analysis of the complex growth dynamics occurring at the nanoscale for developing optimized plasmonic nanomaterial properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the MX2 (M = {Hf, Zr}, X = {S, Se}) transition metal dichalcogenides patterned into armchair (AC) and zigzag (ZZ) nanoribbons (NRs) as potential channel materials in future logic field-effect devices. Ab initio quantum transport simulations are employed to assess the electronic, transport, and ballistic field-effect transistor (FET) properties of devices with such quasi-one-dimensional channels. We report a non-monotonic scaling behavior of MX2NR properties due to strong quantum confinement effects, which is reflected in a strong dependence of the ON-state current (ION) of MX2NR FETs on the nanoribbon configuration. The ∼2 nm-wide HfSe2 and ZrSe2 AC-PFETs have the highest ION of up to 2.6 mA/μm at 10 nA/μm OFF-state current. Surprisingly, MX2NR ZZ-NFETs exhibit a current increase of up to 70% when channel width is scaled down, with ION reaching 2.2 mA/μm in ∼2 nm-wide devices. The high ON-state performance is a direct consequence of high carrier injection velocity, which is explained by analyzing the band structure, transmission, and density of states. We demonstrate that nanostructured MX2 materials can be promising candidates for future logic transistors based on multi-nanowire architectures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three-dimensional (3D) reduced graphene oxide (rGO)/Ti2CTx MXene hybrid aerogels were effectively prepared by a two-step method involving hydrothermal reaction and freeze-drying. The intimately coupled rGO/Ti2CTx hybrid aerogel combined high electrical conductivity, large interlayer spacing, and excellent mechanical stability of Ti2CTx, which not only effectively prevents the self-restacking of Ti2CTx nanosheets, exposes more active sites exposed, and improves the volume change during the charge/discharge process but also increases the accessibility of ions and promotes the rapid transfer of ions/electrons. As a result, rGO/Ti2CTx 17.5–2.5 as the working electrode of electric double layer capacitors delivers a large specific capacity (107.05 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 in a 1M Na2SO4 electrolyte), a high rate capability (maintains 30% of its initial capacitance at 10 A g−1, which is much better than rGO and Ti2CTx), and excellent long-term large-current cycle stability (the initial capacitance remains above 71.1% after 10 000 cycles at 1 A g−1). In addition to providing a high-performance electrode for supercapacitors, this study proposes an efficient and time-saving strategy for constructing 3D structures from 2D materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the liquid phase of heterogeneous catalysis, solvent plays an important role and governs the kinetics and thermodynamics of a reaction. Although it is often difficult to quantify the role of the solvent, it becomes particularly challenging when a zeolite is used as the catalyst. This difficulty arises from the complex nature of the liquid/zeolite interface and the different solvation environments around catalytically active sites. Here, we use ab initio molecular dynamics simulations to probe the local solvation structure and dynamics of methanol and water over MWW zeolite nanosheets with varying Brønsted acidity. We find that the zeolite framework and the number and location of the acid sites in the zeolite influence the structure and dynamics of the solvent. In particular, methanol is more likely to be in the vicinity of the aluminum (Al3+) at the T4 site than at T1 due to easy accessibility. The methanol oxygen binds strongly to the Al at the T4 site, weakening the Al–O for the bridging acid site, which results in the formation of the silanol group, significantly reducing the acidity of the site. The behavior of methanol is in direct contrast to that of water, where protons can easily propagate from the zeolite to the solvent molecules regardless of the acid site location. Our work provides molecular-level insights into how solvent interacts with zeolite surfaces, leading to an improved understanding of the catalytic site in the MWW zeolite nanosheet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The acid-resistant tungsten trioxide photoelectrochemical solid–liquid ultraviolet (UV) photodetector uses a thin film of tungsten trioxide as the photoelectrode, forming a stable heterojunction with the electrolyte. This study employed band theory and double electron layer theory to analyze the mechanisms underlying the effect of pH on the redox potential and photocurrent, utilizing the ion product constant of water and the Nernst equation. By applying the principles of energy band theory and the two-electron layer model, the electron transfer process was analyzed and explained. These findings hold significant promise for enhancing solid–liquid heterojunction UV photodetectors. Tungsten trioxide has fast response and high sensitivity under extreme conditions. The device performance of WO3 nanosheets fabricated by annealing at 300 °C for one hour is excellent, including a rise time of 0.7 s, decay time of 6.8 s, photosensitivity of 1.90, and photoresponsivity of 2.31 mA/W. 0.5M sulfuric acid produced the highest photocurrent (5.46 μA) and sensitivity (14.07). This material has potential applications in optoelectronics, catalysis, sensing, water treatment, and air purification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface tension and interfacial tension are crucial to the study of nanomaterials. Herein, we report a solubility method using magnesium oxide nanoparticles of different radii (1.8–105.0 nm, MgO NPs) dissolved in pure water as a targeted model; the surface tension and interfacial tension (and their temperature coefficients) were determined by measuring electrical conductivity and combined with the principle of the electrochemical equilibrium method, and the problem of particle size dependence is discussed. Encouragingly, this method can also be used to determine the ionic (atomic or molecular) radius and Tolman length of nanomaterials. This research results disclose that surface/interfacial tension and their temperature coefficients have a significant relationship with particle size. Surface/interfacial tension decreases rapidly with a radius <10 nm (while the temperature coefficients are opposite), while for a radius >10 nm, the effect is minimal. Especially, it is proven that the value of Tolman length is positive, the effect of particle size on Tolman length is consistent with the surface/interfacial tension, and the Tolman length of the bulk does not change much in the temperature range. This work initiates a new era for reliable determination of surface/interfacial tension, their temperature coefficients, ionic radius, and Tolman length of nanomaterials and provides an important theoretical basis for the development and application of various nanomaterials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Magic-sized nanocrystals (MSNCs) grow via jumps between very specific sizes. This discrete growth is a possible avenue toward monodisperse nanomaterials that are completely identical in size and shape. In spite of this potential, MSNCs have seen limited study and application due to their poor optical properties. Specifically, MSNCs are limited in their range of emission wavelengths and commonly exhibit poor photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQYs). Here, we report silver doping of CdSe MSNCs as a strategy to improve the optical properties of MSNCs. Silver doping leads to controllable shifts in emission wavelength and significant increases in MSNC PLQYs. These results suggest that doped MSNCs are interesting candidates for displays or luminescent solar concentrators. Finally, we demonstrate that the doping process does not affect the magic size of our MSNCs, allowing further photophysical study of this class of nanomaterial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gallenene is a novel metallic 2D material that can provide a semiconducting counterpart if patterned into quasi-one-dimensional (quasi-1D) nanostructures, i.e., gallenene nanoribbons (GaNRs). We investigate semiconducting GaNRs as a potential channel material for future ultrascaled field-effect transistors (FETs) by employing quantum transport simulations based on Green's functions and tight-binding Hamiltonians with the orbital resolution calibrated on ab initio calculations. The impact of GaNR width downscaling from ∼6 nm down to ∼0.2 nm on the electronic, transport, and ballistic device properties is investigated for the FET channel length of 15 nm. We report current enhancement and injection velocity overshoot effects for sub-1.2 nm-wide nFETs and pFETs, with a maximum current increase of 53% in the 1.2 nm-wide GaNR pFET in comparison to the widest device. In addition, promising current-driving capabilities of n- and p-channel GaNR FETs are observed with top ballistic currents of more than 2.2 mA/μm and injection velocities of up to 2.4 × 107 cm/s. The reported data are explained by analyzing the evolution of band structure and related parameters such as injection velocity, quantum capacitance, effective transport mass etc., with increasing quantum confinement effects in ultranarrow GaNRs. Generally, we find that quasi-1D gallenene is a promising channel material for future nanoscale FETs, especially for transistor architectures based on stacked nanosheets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The intrinsically low electrical conductivity and poor structural fragility of MnO2 have significantly hampered the zinc storage performance. In this work, Ba2+-implanted δ-MnO2 nanosheets have been hydrothermally grown on a carbon cloth (Ba–MnO2@CC) as an extremely stable and efficient cathode material of aqueous zinc-ion batteries. The three-dimensionally porous architecture composed of interwoven thin MnO2 nanosheets effectively shortens the electron/ion transport distances, enlarges the electrode/electrolyte contact area, and increases the active sites for the electrochemical reaction. Meanwhile, Ba2+ could function as an interlayer pillar to stabilize the crystal structure of MnO2. Consequently, the as-optimized Ba–MnO2@CC exhibits remarkable Zn2+ storage capabilities, such as a high capacity (305 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1), prolonged lifespan (95% retention after a 200-cycling test), and superb rate capability. The binder-free cathode is also applicable for flexible energy storage devices with attractive properties. The present investigation provides important insights into designing advanced cathode materials toward wearable electronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanomaterials have excellent adsorption performance due to nano-effect and have been widely used in many fields. The adsorption performance of nanomaterials depends on their adsorption thermodynamics and kinetics. Here, the thermodynamic and kinetic equations of adsorption for spherical nanoparticles are first derived in theory. The mechanisms and regularities of influences of nano-effect on thermodynamics and kinetics, using nano-CdS adsorption of methylene blue as a probe, were investigated. The results show that there are significant influences of nano-effect (i.e., interface area effect and interface tension effect) on the thermodynamics and kinetics of nanoparticle adsorption. When the particle radius is larger and beyond the nanometer scale (∼100 nm), the nano-effect can be neglected. When the radius of the nanoparticle is within 10–50 nm, the nano-effect of adsorption is mainly the interface area effect. When the radius is less than 10 nm, the influences of both the interface area effect and the interface tension effect on adsorption thermodynamics and kinetics become more significant. The theoretic equations and experimental insights in the present work could provide a significant basis and reference for improving and perfecting the adsorption theory involving nanomaterials and provide guidelines for the explanations of adsorption mechanisms as well as the selection of adsorbents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding interparticle interactions has been one of the most important topics of research in the field of micro/nanoscale materials. Many significant characteristics of such materials directly stem from the way their building blocks interact with each other. In this work, we investigate the efficacy of a specific category of Machine Learning (ML) methods known as interaction networks in predicting interparticle interactions within colloidal systems. We introduce and study Local Neighborhood Graph Neural Networks (LN-GNNs), defined according to the local environment of colloidal particles derived from particle trajectory data. The LN-GNN framework is trained for unique categories of particle neighborhood environments in order to predict interparticle interactions. We compare the performance of the LN-GNN to a baseline interaction network with a simpler architecture and to an Instance-Based ML algorithm, which is computationally more expensive. We find that the prediction performance of LN-GNN measured as an average normalized mean absolute error outperforms the baseline interaction network by a factor of 2–10 for different local neighborhood configurations. Furthermore, LN-GNN's performance turns out to be very comparable to the instance-based ML framework while being an order of magnitude less expensive in terms of the required computation time. The results of this work can provide the foundations for establishing accurate models of colloidal particle interactions that are derived from real particle trajectory data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides and semiconductor metal oxides have shown great potential in photocatalysis. However, their stability and efficiency need to be further improved. In this paper, porous ZnO nanorods with high specific surface area were prepared from metal-organic framework ZIF-8 by a simple hydrothermal method. A MoS2/ZnO composite was constructed by loading MoS2 onto the surface of porous ZnO nanorods. Compared with ZnO materials prepared by other methods, MoS2/ZnO prepared in this paper exhibits superior photocatalytic performance. The enhanced photocatalytic activity of the MoS2/ZnO composite can be attributed to the formation of heterojunctions and strong interaction between them, which greatly facilitate the separation of electrons and holes at the contact interface. In addition, due to the wide absorption region of the visible spectrum, MoS2 can greatly broaden the light absorption range of the material after the formation of the composite material, increase the utilization rate of visible light, and reduce the combination of electrons and holes. This study provides a new way to prepare cheap and efficient photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the channel lengths of electronic devices are scaled down to the nanometer range, the conventional methods to evaluate charge-carrier mobility approach a technical limit that is imposed by interfering effects of the electrode and forcing field. In this study, we demonstrate that electron spectroscopy provides additional (yet hidden) information on unipolar charge transport, which is free from conventional problems. We demonstrate that the estimated effective diffusion current through the target sample allows the measurement that is precise enough (10−4 cm2/V s) to obtain the mobility of electrons μelectron and holes μhole in nanolength organic channels. Using this method, we show how μelectron and μhole are correlated with the local structural order of poly(3-hexylthiophene) at the nanoscale. This method enables in situ charge-resolved observations of μelectron and μhole by eliminating the need for electrode and forcing field and will help to expand our understanding of charge conduction in nanoscale materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of van der Waals (vdW) materials has seen increased interest in recent years due to the wide range of uses for these materials because of their unique mechanical, electronic, and optical properties. This area has recently expanded further into studying the behavior of vdW nanomaterials as decreasing dimensions open up opportunities to interact with these materials in new ways. However, measuring the band structures of nanomaterials, which is key to understanding how confinement affects material properties and interactions, comes with several challenges. In this review, we survey a range of techniques for synthesizing and characterizing vdW nanomaterials, in order to outline the key material and characterization challenges. This includes controlling the Fermi level in vdW nanoparticles, preparing these particles for either ensemble or individual particle measurement, as well as protecting the pristine surface from oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cr-doped ZnO (x = 0. 0 2 –0.08) nanoparticles are synthesized using the microwave solvothermal irradiation technique. The final product is calcinated at 450∘C and the nanostructure of the material is investigated using various techniques. In structural studies, XRD analysis shows that the hexagonal wurtzite structure of ZnO is present in the standard JCPDS card. FESEM spectrum reveals the hexagonal shape of the synthesized samples and EDS provides information on the qualitative composition of the nanoparticles. Optical absorbance images show exciton peaks in the UV region, which can be attributed to Cr incorporation into the ZnO lattice, and the optical energy bandgap values are calculated using the tauc plot method. Photoluminescence (PL) emission spectra are measured using PL spectroscopy. Interestingly, vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM) reveals enhancements in the magnetic properties in M–H loops and it is widely used for biological applications like antibacterial activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fast and facile synthesis of nanomaterials is always a challenge for industrial applications in various sectors. In this work, CdMoO₄ and CdWO₄ nanoparticles are synthesized by using a fast and cost-effective microwave-assisted method. The synthesized nanoparticles are mixed with reduced graphene oxide (rGO), to form active electrode materials for supercapacitor and their electrochemical performances were studied in detail. The electrodes were prepared by simple mixtures of rGO/CdMoO₄ and rGO/CdWO₄, and electrochemical performance were measured in both, two- and three-electrode configurations. In general, both rGO/CdMoO₄ and rGO/CdWO₄ mixtures exhibit an increased specific capacitance (Cp) compared to pure rGO. Notably, the rGO/CdMoO₄ mixture shows a Cp exceeding 543 Fg⁻1 at a scan rate of 5 mVs⁻1, which represents a significant improvement over rGO alone (Cp = 225 Fg⁻1). This increase in Cp can be attributed to the higher surface area of the rGO/CdMoO₄ electrode material due to smaller size of CdMoO₄ nanoparticles and their intercalation between the rGO layers in comparison to the rGO/CdWO₄ electrode material. Furthermore, the rGO/CdMoO₄ mixture demonstrated 77% capacitance retention over 5,000 charge/discharge cycles in the two-electrode configuration. The promising electrochemical performance and rapid, low-cost synthesis suggest that these materials have great potential for further use in high efficiency energy-storage devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report the design of Cu–CoO heterostructure nanosheets as a highly efficient electrocatalyst for the electrochemical conversion of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA). The Cu–CoO nanosheets exhibited remarkable catalytic performance, achieving 100% HMF conversion, 98.2% FDCA yield, and 98.1% Faraday efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study is to develop a sensor for the detection of n-butanol gas at room temperature, which in turn facilitates sensor integration. To this end, porous In 2 O 3 nanosheets were prepared in this experiment, along with noble metal Ag modification and UV excitation, to achieve effective monitoring of low concentrations of n-butanol at room temperature. The material composition and structure were analyzed by various analysis techniques. The addition of precious metals promotes the absorption of UV light by the material. The n-butanol gas sensitivity test was completed on individual samples under 365 nm UV. The response of 5 wt% Ag/In 2 O 3 to 10 ppm n-butanol under UV irradiation reaches 127.5 % at room temperature, which is twice as much as pure In 2 O 3. The sensor showed a well regular answer at different concentrations of n-butanol. This paper also discusses the sensing mechanism for the improved gas-sensitive behavior of Ag/In 2 O 3 , which mainly benefits from the chemical and electron sensitizing of Ag. The results show that the Ag/In 2 O 3 material excited by ultraviolet light in this paper lays a certain foundation for the preparation of room temperature n-butanol gas sensor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel single-atom Pt monolithic electrode is designed and constructed by anchoring Pt single atoms on etched vertical graphene nanosheets. This unique atomic-scale Pt O 4 active structure demonstrates enhanced stability and efficiency for acidic hydrogen evolution, outperforming traditional Pt C/N catalysts and paving the way for advancements in industrial-scale hydrogen production. [Display omitted] Pt N C single-atom catalysts (SACs) single-atom catalysts (SACs) are promising for acidic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) but suffer from instability at high current densities, limiting their large-scale application. Herein, Pt O bonds are constructed to securely anchor atomically dispersed Pt for single-atom (SA) catalysis, utilizing etched vertical graphene (EVG) nanosheets as monolithic supports (Pt-SAs/EVG). Compared to Pt N C, the resultant Pt O 4 coordination demonstrates improved stability while maintaining significant catalytic activity. When applying this catalyst in the acidic HER, a high turnover frequency (34.6 s−1) is achieved at 70 mV, accompanied by exceptional durability exceeding 100 h at −100 mA cm−2. Theoretical analyses indicate that the Pt O bonds confer stability to the Pt atoms, facilitating the efficient adsorption of protons and the subsequent desorption of hydrogen. The prepared Pt-SAs/EVG can also be directly employed as the cathode to afford stable operation at 0.5 A cm−2 in a proton exchange membrane electrolyzer cell. This study offers novel insights into enhancing the performance of SACs for industrial applications in electrocatalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A robust 2D/2D MXene/C 3 N 5 heterostructured artificial photosynthesis platform. • Nitrogen-rich C 3 N 5 nanosheets with abundant π-π conjugated electrons. • Abundant ultrathin 2D/2D hetero-interfaces for rapid charge separation/transfer. • Nearly 100 % photocatalytic NADH regeneration efficiency without electron mediator. • Ultra-high HCOOH production rate of 3.51 mmol g−1h−1 with nearly 100 % selectivity. Photoenzyme-coupled catalytic systems offer a promising avenue for selectively converting CO 2 into high-value chemicals or fuels. However, two key challenges currently hinder their widespread application: the heavy reliance on the costly coenzyme NADH, and the necessity for metal-electron mediators or photosensitizers to address sluggish reaction kinetics. Herein, we present a robust 2D/2D MXene/C 3 N 5 heterostructured artificial photosynthesis platform for in situ NADH regeneration and photoenzyme synergistic CO 2 conversion to HCOOH. The efficiencies of utilizing and transmitting photogenerated charges are significantly enhanced by the abundant π-π conjugation electrons and well-engineered 2D/2D hetero-interfaces. Noteworthy is the achievement of nearly 100 % NADH regeneration efficiency within just 2.5 h by 5 % Ti 3 C 2 /C 3 N 5 without electron mediators, and an impressive HCOOH production rate of 3.51 mmol g−1h−1 with nearly 100 % selectivity. This study represents a significant advancement in attaining the highest NADH yield without electron mediator and provides valuable insights into the development of superior 2D/2D heterojunctions for CO 2 conversion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, bimetallic ZnNi/g-C 3 N 4 (ZnNi/CN) photocatalysts prepared by chemical reduction method were investigated for their photocatalytic hydrogen production activity, and it was found that the addition of the bimetallic ZnNi promotes the reactive active site, improves the charge transfer efficiency, and inhibits the ability of photogenerated electron-hole complexes effectively. Therefore, the 3% ZnNi/CN photocatalyst with the best hydrogen production activity can produce up to 1822.75 μmol g−1 h−1 of hydrogen, which is 56.8 times higher than that of the conventional g-C 3 N 4 (CN) photocatalyst. The results suggest that the effective combination of bimetallic ZnNi and CN materials can enhance the photocatalytic activity for hydrogen production. This work demonstrates the great potential of bimetallic co-catalysts and provides new insights into the efficient hydrogen production by modified CN nanosheets. • Preparation of bimetallic ZnNi/CN photocatalysts by facile chemical reduction method. • The ZnNi/CN photocatalysts was facilitated the effective separation of e−-h+ pairs. • The 3% ZnNi/CN photocatalysts exhibits excellent photocatalytic H 2 generation activity and reusability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional nanostructured materials offer abundant active sites, providing numerous pathways for diffusion and dissociation of hydrogen. CoFeLDH and NiFeLDH (LDH = layered double hydroxide) prepared by the co-precipitation method act as precursors, with their derivatives CoFeMMO and NiFeMMO (MMO = mixed metal oxide) being integrated into the MgH 2 system. NiFeMMO doped MgH 2 has shown impressive performance, absorbing 4.05 wt% hydrogen within 60 min at 75 °C and rapidly absorbing 5.72 wt% hydrogen within just 1 min at 150 °C. In contrast, CoFeMMO doped MgH 2 absorbs 4.09 wt% hydrogen within 60 min at 150 °C, whereas milled MgH 2 absorbs only 1.19 wt% hydrogen during the same period. The initial hydrogen release temperatures are lowered to 230 °C for CoFeMMO doped MgH 2 and 200 °C for NiFeMMO doped MgH 2 , respectively. There is a significant reduction in the hydrogen release activation energies to 88.77 kJ/mol and 68.36 kJ/mol, respectively. Interestingly, NiFeMMO doped MgH 2 demonstrates characteristics reminiscent of a "hydrogen pump" during hydrogenation and dehydrogenation by forming Mg 2 Ni/Mg 2 NiH 4. This study highlights the promising potential of LDH-derived MMO catalysts in advancing hydrogen storage applications. In this paper, CoFe and NiFe layered double hydroxides (LDH) derived mixed metal oxides (MMO) were introduced into MgH 2. The hydrogen storage properties of the MgH 2 -5 wt% CoFeMMO (MgH 2 -CoFeMMO) and MgH 2 -5 wt% NiFeMMO (MgH 2 -NiFeMMO) composites have been investigated, and the catalytic mechanism for CoFeMMO and NiFeMMO catalyzed MgH 2 has been revealed. [Display omitted] • CoFeMMO and NiFeMMO serve as active sites and improve the cycling stability of MgH 2. • Synergistic catalytic effect enhances the hydrogen storage capacity of MgH 2. • Mg 2 Ni/Mg 2 NiH 4 functions as "hydrogen pump". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, we produced KP-aluminum composites using a solvent/non-solvent technique to improve their combustion properties, tested different process parameters for better bonding, and analyzed their thermal decomposition and ignition combustion. The optimum refinement and binding for the samples was found using a 1:4 solvent ratio, dichloroethane as the non-solvent, a 40℃ water bath and 300 rpm stirring. The refined KP improved the heat transfer and the reaction of the aluminum powder. In combustion tests, the refined sample had 1.2 times higher pressure, 50% shorter ignition delay and better combustion rates and completeness than the unrefined mixture, showing that the refined KP significantly improves the reaction of the system. The morphology of KP was improved by solvent/non-solvent methods to achieve micro-nanometer particle sizes, which resulted in a significant reduction of the dispersion scale of the mixed system of KP and Al, facilitated the reaction of KP on aluminum powder, and improved the combustion exothermic performance of the whole system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites exhibit excellent characteristics such as light weight, high specific strength, specific stiffness, and chemical stability, making them customizable to meet the specific demands of various sectors such as the automotive, aerospace, defense, biomedical, and energy industries. However, the inert surface of carbon fibers (CFs) results in a poor interface compatibility with polymer matrices, leading to numerous interfacial defects and pores in prepared CFRP composites. These drawbacks significantly limit the application of CFRP composites in high‐end fields. The higher surface area and smaller size of nanomaterials provide multiple advantages for high‐performance CFRP composites that enhance the mechanical properties, impact resistance and interface adhesion between the fiber and the matrix. Hence, this review firstly summarizes the interfacial behavior and interface enhancement mechanisms for CFRP composites. Subsequently, we comprehensively review the recent advances in various nanomaterials‐modified CFRP composites, including carbon‐based nanoparticles, silicon‐based nanomaterials and metal nanomaterials, et al. Besides, we also present the applications of CFRP in emerging fields, such as military, aerospace, automotive, sports equipment, and medical, etc. Finally, we also prospected the challenges and future development trends of CFRP composites, aiming to provide new ideas and insights for future research on nanomaterial modifications and promote the development of high‐performance CFRP composites. Highlights: The interface reinforced theory of CFRP is comprehensively summarized.Different types of nanoparticles that can be used for reinforcement in CFRP composites and nanomaterials modification methods are reviewed.Application of CFRP composites in various fields is presented.Challenges and future development directions of preparation of high‐performance CFRP composites are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reports on preparing two types of graphene oxide‐zinc oxide (GO‐ZnO) nano‐hybrids and their effect on the performance of polybutylene succinate (PBS) matrix. This view synthesized GO, ZnO, and GO‐ZnO nano‐hybrids at 1:1 and 1:2 weight ratios. Subsequently, various spectroscopy and microscopy analyses (FTIR, UV, Raman, AFM, and TEM) were employed to characterize the structure of synthesized nanomaterials. The obtained results revealed that the hybridization was successfully occurred and microstructure of two types of prepared nano‐hybrids are basically different depending on the preparation procedure. Following this, PBS nanocomposites with 0.5, 1, and 1.5 wt% of GO‐ZnO nano‐hybrids (NPs) were produced via the solvent‐blending method. The mechanical, microstructural, rheological, biodegradability and UV‐shielding properties of the fabricated films were then investigated. Mechanical properties showed that addition of 0.5 wt% ZnO‐GO nanohybrids improved elongation at break from 21.6% to 28.7% and increased tensile strength by 20%. However, rheological assessments showed a one‐order‐of‐magnitude decrease in viscosity with the addition of only 0.5 wt%. In degradation analysis, 100 percent of mass loss was observed during 5 weeks for PBS with 1.5 wt% of GO‐ZnO. PBS/GO‐ZnO nanocomposites indicated tailored mechanical properties, biodegradability, suggesting a promising potential in packaging applications. Highlights: GO‐ZnO nanohybrids were successfully synthesized.Incorporating GO‐ZnO into PBS improved its hydrolytic degradationThe thermal decomposition of PBS was accelerated by the addition of GO‐ZnO.Adding GO‐ZnO nanohybrids to PBS resulted in a drop in viscosity.Nanohybrids with higher ZnO content exhibited greater hydrolytic and thermal degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two nanosheets of Bi4NbO8Cl were successfully synthesized for photocatalytic conversion of CO2 into solar fuel, featuring differently exposed (001) and (201) facets. The exposure of these specific facets facilitates C–C coupling to generate ethanol, and (201) facet typically accelerates this process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rGO-based 5% Ni-doped Co3O4/TiO2 (GNCT) p-n heterojunction nanocomposite was synthesized using hydrothermal method. The resulting nanocomposite's morphology, structure, surface area, elemental composition, electrical and optical properties were thoroughly examined using a variety of techniques. The GNCT nanomaterial achieved an impressive 99.11% degradation within 40 min, while GPCT closely followed with a 96.6% efficiency. Its smart nanomaterial also excels as a n-butanol sensor, with GNCT showing a sensitivity of 91.51%, and GPCT registering 86.51%. This dual-functionality highlights its potential as an advanced material for environmental and sensing applications. Additionally, GNCT exhibited excellent stability across multiple cycles, underscoring its potential for gas sensing and environmental applications. The remarkable performance of GNCT is a result of the synergistic effects of its morphology (nanosheet), surface area (540.215 m2/g), band gap (1.93 eV), and photosensitivity (36.92%), which collectively make it an ideal candidate for the photocatalytic and gas sensing applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electroreduction of NO3− and CO2 to urea (ENCU) represents a fascinating strategy to enable waste NO3−/CO2 removal and sustainable urea production. Herein, uncoordinated Zn nanosheets (U-Zn) are developed as a highly selective ENCU catalyst, exhibiting the highest urea-faradaic efficiency of 31.8% with the corresponding urea yield rate of 39.3 mmol h−1 g−1 in a flow cell. Theoretical calculations and electrochemical spectroscopic measurements reveal that the high ENCU performance of U-Zn arises from the critical role of uncoordinated Zn sites that can promote both key steps of *NO2/CO2 coupling and *CO2NH2 protonation to *COOHNH2, while retarding the competitive side reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vanadium tetrasulfide (VS4) is increasingly acknowledged as a potential electrode material for supercapacitors, attributed to its unique one-dimensional structural characteristics and elevated sulfur content. However, its intrinsic low conductivity and the tendency of vanadium to dissolve in the electrolyte have severely hindered its cycling performance, resulting in limited specific capacity under practical application conditions. The realization of advanced energy storage materials predominantly hinges on the exploitation of multiple oxidation states, the design of rational nanostructures, and the achievement of high electrical conductivity. Consequently, we report the successful construction of VS4 and polypyrrole (PPy) cross-aligned nanostructures on the surface of bio-templated diatomite (De@VS4@PPy) using a two-step hydrothermal and oxidative polymerization technique, which has led to remarkable electrochemical performance (specific capacitance of 243.33 F g−1 at a current density of 1 A g−1) and outstanding energy storage capabilities (97.7% capacitance retention after 3000 cycles). The highly conductive and cross-aligned nanostructures facilitate efficient electrolyte ion diffusion and concurrently minimize charge transfer resistance. Notably, the De@VS4@PPy nanostructured electrode materials demonstrate significant specific capacitance, a broad potential window, and outstanding cycling stability. Furthermore, this strategy can be readily extended to practical applications, exemplified by the asymmetric supercapacitors assembled employing De@VS4@PPy nano-electrode materials, which can achieve potential windows and maximum energy densities up to 1.8 V and 21.75 W h kg−1 (at 899.94 W kg−1), respectively. This work serves as a valuable reference for future studies focused on the screening and optimization of superior electrode materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hybrid MoS 2 /hollow carbon spheres (CSs) composites are fabricated using solvothermal method by uniformly growing MoS 2 nanosheets onto hollow CSs in an ethanol and water mixture at different pH values (CMS-x-y, with x and y been the weight ratio of Na 2 MoO 4· 2H 2 O and pH value). Sample CMS-20-3.5 fabricated using optimized conditions shows that the MoS 2 nanosheets with a mixed phases of 1T and 2H are uniformly anchored onto the surface of monodispersed hollow CSs. The hydrogen reaction evolution (HER) and supercapacitor measurements results suggest that sample CMS-20-3.5 reveals the best electrocatalytic activity for HER in acidic media, at the potential of 150 and 207 mV to attain current density of 1 and 10 mAcm-2 in case of no IR correction, respectively. Moreover, sample CMS-20-3.5 exhibits the highest specific capacitance of 800 Fg-1 at 1 Ag-1 using a three-electrode system in a 3 M KOH solvent. An asymmetric supercapacitor device is assembled using sample CMS-20-3.5 and activated carbon to manifest a high energy density of 36.4 Whkg-1 at 800 Wkg-1 under the voltage window of 0–1.6 V. Encouragingly, the composites in HER and supercapacitor applications exhibits excellent stability in the case of 24 h and 5000 cycles of continuous operation. [Display omitted] • MoS 2 nanosheets were grown homogeneously on hollow carbon nanospheres (CSs). • MoS 2 /CSs composites revealed high HER performance in acidic and alkaline media. • The sample delivered a high specific capacitance of 800 F g−1 in alkaline solvent. • An asymmetric device was assembled to manifest an energy density of 36.4 Wh kg−1. • The composites showed excellent stability in HER and supercapacitor applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanoscale materials tend to have a single crystal domain, leading to not only size dependence but also orientation dependence of their mechanical properties. Recently, we developed a microscopic nanomechanical measurement method (MNMM), which enabled us to obtain equivalent spring constants (force gradients) of nanocontacts (NCs) while observing their atomic structures by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Therein, we evaluated Young's modulus based on a model that a newly introduced layer at the thinnest section of a NC determined the change in the measured equivalent spring constant, and discussed their size dependence. However, this model is not general for other nanomaterials that do not exhibit the introduction of a new atomic layer while stretching. In this study, using MNMM, we propose a new analytical method to directly retrieve the local Young's modulus of nanomaterials by measuring initial lattice spacing and its displacement of a local region in the TEM image during the stretching of the NC. This reveals the size dependence of local Young's modulus at various positions of the NC at once. As a result, our estimated Young's modulus for a gold [111] NC showed a size dependence similar to the one previously reported. This indicates that this analytical method benefits in revealing the mechanical properties of not only nanomaterials but also structurally heterogeneous materials such as high-entropy alloys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]