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0D Hybrid Zn/Cd Halied for Color-Time-Dual-Resolved Security Applications: We devise a family of zero-dimensional (0D) hybrid metal halides based RTP materials with dual phosphorescence performance and adjustable lifetime scale, which realize color-lifetime-dual-resolved encoding ability, showcasing potential applications in multilevel anti-counterfeiting and information security. [Display omitted] • A new optical multiplexing concept of simultaneously utilizing the varied emission color and lifetime as dual temporary codes was proposed. • A new family of zero-dimensional (0D) organic metal halides was directly synthesized accompanied by tailorable lifetime at the same molecular platform. • High-security anti-Counterfeiting and 4D information encryption-decryption were demonstrated. Luminescent materials with engineered optical properties play an important role in anti-counterfeiting and information security technology. However, conventional luminescent coding is limited by fluorescence color or intensity, and high-level multi-dimensional luminescent encryption technology remains a critically challenging goal in different scenarios. To improve the encoding capacity, we present an optical multiplexing concept by synchronously manipulating the emission color and decay lifetimes of room-temperature phosphorescence materials at molecular level. Herein, we devise a family of zero-dimensional (0D) hybrid metal halides by combining organic phosphonium cations and metal halide tetrahedral anions as independent luminescent centers, which display blue phosphorescence and green persistent afterglow with the highest quantum yields of 39.9 % and 57.3 %, respectively. Significantly, the luminescence lifetime can be fine-tuned in the range of 0.0968–0.5046 μs and 33.46–125.61 ms as temporary time coding through precisely controlling the heavy atomic effect and inter-molecular interactions. As a consequence, synchronous blue phosphorescence and green afterglow are integrated into one 0D halide platform with adjustable emission lifetime acting as color- and time-resolved dual RTP materials, which realize the multiple applications in high-level anti-counterfeiting and information storage. The color-lifetime-dual-resolved encoding ability greatly broadens the scope of luminescent halide materials for optical multiplexing applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functional molecular electronics require molecular design that provides integrity and stability. In this work, we explored two types of single molecule devices differing in anchoring to the conducting leads. Single molecule conductance was measured by STM break junction method and the molecular conductor was composed of the redox active anthraquinone center (switching element) containing either 4‐pyridyl or p‐phenylene thioacetate anchoring groups. The experimental results were supported by quantum chemical charge transport calculations. Molecular junctions containing 4‐pyridyl anchors displayed two stable configurations with conductance values of 4.9 nS and 20 pS, respectively. Molecules anchored via p‐phenylene thioacetate groups led to one main junction configuration with conductance of 0.1 nS. Junctions employing 4‐pyridyl anchoring groups had higher junction formation probability, which in combination with lower conductance makes them better candidates for switching purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The resonance spectrum of the surface resistance derivative in organic conductors has been calculated numerically for the out-of-plane and in-plane magnetic field orientation. Not all but some of the resonances in a given series of transitions are present in the spectra. They are observed as maxima in the surface resistance derivative curve. For tilted magnetic fields, apart from the resonances for transitions between the adjacent surface states, there also appear resonances corresponding to the transitions between more distant surface states. The calculations allow for the obtain of additional information on the surface properties for fabrication of devices based on organic molecular conductors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ionic Polymer Metal Composite (IPMC) is a new type of artificial muscle material. It has unique advantages such as low driving voltage, good flexibility and rapid response that make it suitable for driving soft robots. However, the high preparation cost limited its widely application. The focus of this paper is to study a low-cost and high-performance Ag-IPMC and explores its application in driving bionic butterfly robots. In addition, based on the flexible characteristic of IPMC, a bionic butterfly soft robot is designed and manufactured, and its related performance is also studied. This manuscript also has provided a reference value for the extensive diversified application of the biological IPMC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel resonance‐assisted self‐doping mechanism has been demonstrated in ladder‐type oligoaniline‐derived organic conductors. The new class of compounds has a unique structure incorporating acidic phenolic hydroxyl groups into the ladder‐type cyclohexadiene‐1,4‐diimine core, enabling efficient resonance‐assisted proton transfer and electronic doping without the need for external dopants. Mechanistic and computational studies confirm the open‐shell, zwitterionic nature of the self‐doped state and the significant role played by the dielectric environment. This new self‐doping mechanism allows for higher stability and durability in the material's electronic performance. The self‐doped form retains durability under harsh conditions and maintains its properties over extended periods of time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bi‐based organic halides have attracted widespread attention as potential substitutes for lead‐based organic halide perovskites and have been explored and applied in many optoelectronic devices. The rational design of organic Bi‐based halides is a popular research topic. In this work, we used benzylammonium (BA) cations to synthesize BA3Bi2I9 (BBI) perovskite material and FA3Bi2I9 (FBI, FA [formamidinium]) as control. We observe that the benzene rings in BA cations overlap with each other due to the benzene rings Π‐Π conjugation in the crystal structure of BBI, which exhibits large interplanar spacing due to large BA ions. BBI has preferential orientation along the (020) crystal plane. Due to conjugation, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) mapping images indicate that the surface of the BBI thin film is smoother and more uniform than that of the FBI thin film. We fabricated the device by growing thin films of BBI and FBI on ITO interdigital electrodes. The photodetector based on BBI SC exhibits stability and regularity with turning on/off of the light at different intensities (10, 20, 30, and 40 W m−2) and wavelengths (386, 397, 405, and 433 nm). The ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) absorption and reflection spectrum analysis shows that BBI has a slightly wider bandgap than FBI. This study can provide some ideas for the design Π‐Π conjugation in organic metal halides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ionic polymer-metal composite (IPMC) sensors were fabricated and investigated for quantifying impact energy in sports applications. Nafion membranes were roughened and electroless plated with gold-platinum electrodes to form IPMCs. When subjected to impacts of varying energies, the IPMCs generated transient voltage spikes whose peak amplitudes and slopes showed exponential relationships with the impact energies. Empirical models were developed correlating the IPMC voltage response features to the impact energies, achieving measurement accuracy within ±10 % RMS error over the tested dynamic range from 0.005 J to 1 J. The IPMC voltage profile was found to depend primarily on the impact energy and resultant strain rate, rather than impactor properties or contact geometry. Proper calibration procedures for each IPMC sensor before deployment were required to account for device-to-device variations. The results demonstrate the potential of IPMC sensors for continuous monitoring of athletes' impacts during sports activities. Further optimization is needed to improve the robustness, repeatability, and stability of the IPMC sensors under realistic sports conditions for reliable field performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research shows that cationic polyacrylamide (CPAM) flocculants, widely used in wastewater treatment, are susceptible to degradation when in contact with various metallic surfaces. This is evidenced by the investigation of the evolution of CPAM's rheological properties during degradation within metallic Couette tools, observing a transition from elastic to viscous behavior. The degradation is clearly evident on various metallic surfaces, while thermoplastic surfaces have significantly less effect on CPAM degradation. Key findings indicate that chemical interactions, rather than mechanical stress, are the primary cause of degradation, and this reaction is activated by temperature. Techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance analysis, and polyelectrolyte titration provided some initial understanding of this mechanism. This research offers valuable insights into CPAM's interactions with metal surfaces, with important implications for environmental and industrial applications, and establishes the appropriate protocol for characterizing the intrinsic rheological properties of these materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of its excellent hole conductivity, p‐doped 2,2′7,7′‐tetrakis‐(N,N‐di‐p‐methoxyphenyl‐amine)‐9,9′‐spiro‐bifluorene (spiro‐MeOTAD) is commonly deployed for hole transport in organic metal halide perovskite solar cells, but its rather expensive synthesis prompts the research for alternatives. In this work, tetrasubstituted [2.2]paracyclophanes (PCPs) are synthesized and investigated for replacing spiro‐MeOTAD. To enhance their conductivity, different doping strategies are followed. Best conductivities are achieved by doping PCP thin films with tris(2‐(1H‐pyrazol‐1‐yl)‐4‐tert‐butylpyridine)cobalt(III) tris(bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide) (FK209), matching the conductivity of state‐of‐the‐art p‐doped spiro‐MeOTAD. Best performance in solar cells is leveraged by doping PCPs with the co‐dopants lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) and 4‐tert‐butylpyridine (tBP) which are also used to p‐dope spiro‐MeOTAD thin films in solar cells. Yet, the thermal device stability is maximized upon doping PCPs with FK209 and 2,3,5,6‐tetrafluoro‐7,7,8,8‐tetracyanoquinodimethane (F4TCNQ). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most polymetallic hybrid metal halides are assumed to show a homogenous distribution of the metal ions in the bulk. Herein, we demonstrate a core–shell model for the hybrid lead halide [(C6H18N3)2·Pb2Br10] (C6H18N3 = 2-(piperazin-1-yl)ethan-1-aminium) coated with a manganese bromide layer. This model can explain the different photoemission of this composite material, and provides new insights on the investigation of polymetallic low-dimensional organic metal halides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low dimensional (LD) organic metal halide hybrids (OMHHs) have recently emerged as new generation functional materials with exceptional structural and property tunability. Despite the remarkable advances in the development of LD OMHHs, optical properties have been the major functionality extensively investigated for most of LD OMHHs developed to date, while other properties, such as magnetic and electronic properties, remain significantly under‐explored. Here, we report for the first time the characterization of the magnetic and electronic properties of a 1D OMHH, organic‐copper (II) chloride hybrid (C8H22N2)Cu2Cl6. Owing to the antiferromagnetic coupling between Cu atoms through chloride bridges in 1D [Cu2Cl62−]∞ chains, (C8H22N2)Cu2Cl6 is found to exhibit antiferromagnetic ordering with a Néel temperature of 24 K. The two‐terminal (2T) electrical measurement on a (C8H22N2)Cu2Cl6 single crystal reveals its insulating nature. This work shows the potential of LD OMHHs as a highly tunable quantum material platform for spintronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flexible scintillator screens with excellent stability and low detection limits are crucial for X‐ray imaging applications. 0D organic metal halide materials have emerged as a strong contender in the scintillator fields, owing to their excellent optical characteristics and simple maneuverability. Herein, high‐quality and large quantities of C38H36P2Sb2Cl8 single crystals are synthesized through a simple solution approach. The prepared single crystals with dimer‐structure [Sb2Cl8]2− exhibit yellow emission with a near‐unity high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of 99.8%, and possess an exceptional light yield of 41300 photons MeV−1, and a detection limit as low as 45.6 nGyair s−1. On this basis, a large‐size and ultra‐flexible C38H36P2Sb2Cl8 scintillator utilized for X‐ray imaging is prepared by template assembled method, demonstrating a high spatial resolution of 8.15 lp mm−1. The prepared ultra‐flexible scintillator screen can achieve excellent X‐ray imaging even after multiple bending and stretching, which can also provide clear non‐planar X‐ray imaging for irregular objects. In addition, the scintillator shows excellent stability in light, heat, X‐ray irradiation, and water. These results not only expand the optoelectronic application field of organic‐inorganic hybrid antimony halides but also promote the rapid development of efficient ultra‐flexible scintillators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High permittivity materials are required for efficient organic photovoltaic devices, and the addition of the conjugated polymer composite poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophen) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) to dielectric polymers has been shown to significantly heighten their permittivity. The permittivity of PEDOT:PSS at the optical and microwave frequencies has been investigated, but PEDOT:PSS layers are mainly used for low-frequency device applications, where accurate dielectric property measurements are hindered by their high electrical conductivity and the problems arising from the metal-polymer interfaces. Here, we determine the complex relative permittivity ( ε r * = ε r ′ − j ε r ″ ) of PEDOT:PSS layers perpendicular to the layer plane in the 10−2–106 Hz range by combining data from the reactive energy estimations and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and discover that: ε r ′ at <1 Hz is ultra-high (∼106) decreasing with frequency to ∼5 at 106 Hz; the experimental data fit the Cole-Cole dielectric relaxation model by considering multiple relaxation mechanisms; PEDOT:PSS polarizes nonlinearly and ε r ′ increases with the intensity of the applied external field; low frequency ε r ′ increases with both thickness and temperature of the layer, opposite trend of temperature-dependence prevails at >103 Hz; the dielectric properties of PEDOT:PSS are highly anisotropic and the in-plane ε r ′ at 1.0 kHz is three orders of magnitude higher than the vertical ε r ′ ; and that the ε r ′ ′ decreases proportional to the reciprocal of frequency (1/f). The latter finding provides an explanation for the ubiquitous pink noise accompanying signals transmitted through organic conductor links. The described methodology can be adopted for investigations on other conjugated polymers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is imperative to provide autonomous power supplies for the sensor nodes in structural health monitoring. Piezoelectric vibration energy harvesters (PVEH) can generate power to meet this. Here, studies on a novel PVEH design integrating ionic polymer metal composites (IPMC), for electrical tuning of resonant frequency of the harvester have been discussed. The device for which a patent is pending, has two sections. Macro fiber composite (MFC) is bonded on the root section and the extension beam is impacted by IPMC. Net power output was achieved with varying conditions. This article also discusses theoretical analysis of results and next-generation devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interplay between mitochondria, epigenetics, and the microbiota is intricately linked to both health and disease. Within our cells, a complex molecular dance occurs, where these components intertwine in a mesmerizing ballet that plays a decisive role in our health. Mitochondria, beyond being energy powerhouses, modulate nuclear gene expression through messengers like reactive oxidative stress (ROS) and calcium. Epigenetics, acting as the molecular conductor, regulates the expression of both nuclear and mitochondrial genes through modifications like DNA methylation. The intestinal microbiota itself produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that influence mitochondrial activity. SCFA-induced epigenetic modifications, like histone acetylation, impact mitochondrial function which may lead to disease. Mitochondrial dysfunction generates retrograde signals that alter nuclear gene expression, as evidenced by increased histone H3 lysine 27 acetylation (H3K27ac) in genes essential for neuronal differentiation and mitochondrial reprogramming. Alterations in the mitochondrial-nuclear-microbiota axis are associated with diseases including diabetes, neurodegeneration, and cancer. Modulating the intestinal microbiota with probiotics or prebiotics can restore balance while intervening in mitochondrial pathways, which can be a therapeutic strategy. Additionally, using epigenetic agents like histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors can reprogram gene expression and improve mitochondrial function. Finally, the present review aims to explore the central interplay between mitochondria, epigenetics modifications, and microbiota in a complex and dynamic molecular context that plays a fundamental role in human health. Specifically, it will examine the impact of microbiome components and metabolites generated from normobiosis and dysbiosis on mitochondria and epigenetic modifications across different diseases and metabolic conditions. This integrated understanding of the molecular players and their interactions provides a deeper perspective on how to promote health and potentially combat disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The performance and stability of organic metal halide perovskite (OMHP) optoelectronic devices have been associated with ion migration. Understanding of nanoscale resolved organic cation migration mechanism would facilitate structure engineering and commercialization of OMHP. Here, we report a three‐dimensional approach for in situ nanoscale infrared imaging of organic ion migration behavior in OMHPs, enabling to distinguish migrations along grain boundary and in crystal lattice. Our results reveal that organic cation migration along OMHP film surface and grain boundaries (GBs) occurs at lower biases than in crystal lattice. We visualize the transition of organic cation migration channels from GBs to volume upon increasing electric field. The temporal resolved results demonstrate the fast MA+ migration kinetics at GBs, which is comparable to diffusivity of halide ions. Our findings help understand the role of organic cations in the performance of OMHP devices, and the proposed approach holds broad applicability for revealing migration mechanisms of organic ions in OMHPs based optoelectronic devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

0D organic metal halide hybrids (OMHHs) have recently emerged as a new generation of scintillation materials, due to their high luminescence quantum efficiency, sensitivity, stability, and cost‐effectiveness. While numerous 0D OMHH scintillators have been developed to date, most of them are based on solution grown single crystals that require time‐consuming synthesis and are limited in size. Here, high‐performance X‐ray scintillators based on facile solution processed 0D OMHH amorphous films are reported for the first time. By reacting triphenyl(9‐phenyl‐9H‐carbazol‐3‐yl) phosphonium bromide (TPPcarzBr) with manganese bromide (MnBr2), 0D (TPPcarz)₂MnBr₄ amorphous films can be prepared via solution processing with mild thermal annealing, which exhibits green photoluminescence with an emission maximum ≈517 nm and a photoluminescence quantum efficiency of ≈87%. The X‐ray scintillation of 0D (TPPcarz)₂MnBr₄ amorphous films is characterized to exhibit a light yield of 44600 photon MeV−1 and an outstanding linearity with a low limit of detection of 32.42 nGyairs−1 over a wide range of X‐ray dose rates. The versatile processability of 0D (TPPcarz)₂MnBr₄ is illustrated with remarkable recyclability, high cost‐effectiveness, and scalability for large‐scale production. By taking advantage of the amorphous nature of newly designed OMHHs, the approach opens up new opportunities for developing high‐performance, solution‐processable scintillators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ionic polymer metal composite (IPMC) is regarded as the mainstream application material for achieving flexible driving technology in various engineering fields. In this article, aiming at the non-independence of the current IPMC electric driving method, an IPMC optical-controlled flexible driving method based on the photoinduced effects of lanthanum-modified lead zirconate titanate (PLZT) ceramic is proposed. To this end, a mathematical model for IPMC optical controlled flexible driving is built on the basis of the photovoltaic characteristic of PLZT ceramic, and the driving performance is experimentally analyzed through different lengths of IPMC under the excitation of different direct currents and light intensities. From the analysis and experimental results, when PLZT ceramic is irradiated by different light intensities, the output deformation of IPMC increases with increases in light intensity, and finally reaches a stable state. Moreover, the actuation curves obtained by light excitation and direct current excitation are consistent, and the motion coefficient reflects the driving performance more accurately. In addition, using light energy as an excitation source to drive IPMC not only provides new ideas for its development in the flexible driving field, but also provides a theoretical basis for its practical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel inorganic‐organic‐inorganic ternary bioactive material formulated on antimicrobial peptide‐based polymer has been reported. Supramolecular approach has been employed to incorporate molecularly crowded tyrosine‐based polymer stabilized silver nanoparticles into membrane bound vesicles exploiting polyoxometalate‐triggered surface templating strategy. Utilizing the covalent reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization and exploiting templated supramolecular architectonics at biopolymer interface, the bioactive ternary polymeric nanohybrids have been designed against Shigellosis leveraging the antibacterial activities of silver nanoparticle, cationic amphiphilic tyrosine polymer and inorganic polyoxometalate. The detail investigation against Shigella flexneri 2a cell line demonstrates that the collaborative mechanism of the ternary hybrid composite enhances the bactericidal activity in comparison to only polyoxometalate and polymer stabilized silver nanoparticle with an altered mechanism of action which is established via detailed biological analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some time ago, Kobayashi et al. experimentally studied the so-called Lee–Naughton–Lebed's (LNL) angular effect in strong electric fields [Kobayashi, K.; Saito, M.; Omichi E.; Osada, T. Phys. Rev. Lett. 2006, 96, 126601]. They found that strong electric fields split the LNL conductivity maxima in an α -(ET)2-based organic conductor and hypothetically introduced the corresponding equation for conductivity. In this paper, for the first time, we suggest the quantum mechanical theory of the LNL angular oscillations in moderately strong electric fields. In particular, we demonstrate that the approximate theoretical formula obtained by us well describes the above mentioned experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Redox‐active azo compounds are emerging as promising cathode materials due to their multi‐electron redox capacity and fast redox response. However, their practical application is often limited by low output voltage and poor thermal stability. Herein, we use a heteroatomic substitution strategy to develop 4,4′‐azopyridine. This modification results in a 350 mV increase in reduction potential compared to traditional azobenzene, increasing the energy density at the material level from 187 to 291 Wh kg−1. The introduced heteroatoms not only raise the melting point of azo compounds from 68 °C to 112 °C by forming an intermolecular hydrogen‐bond network but also improves electrode kinetics by reducing energy band gaps. Moreover, 4,4′‐azopyridine forms metal‐ligand complexes with Zn2+ ions, which further self‐assemble into a robust superstructure, acting as a molecular conductor to facilitate charge transfer. Consequently, the batteries display a good rate performance (192 mAh g−1 at 20 C) and an ultra‐long lifespan of 60,000 cycles. Notably, we disclose that the depleted batteries spontaneously self‐charge when exposed to air, marking a significant advancement in the development of self‐powered aqueous systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Integration of bioelectronic devices in clinical practice is expanding rapidly, focusing on conditions ranging from sensory to neurological and mental health disorders. While platinum (Pt) electrodes in neuromodulation devices such as cochlear implants and deep brain stimulators have shown promising results, challenges still affect their long‐term performance. Key among these are electrode and device longevity in vivo, and formation of encapsulating fibrous tissue. To overcome these challenges, organic conductors with unique chemical and physical properties are being explored. They hold great promise as coatings for neural interfaces, offering more rapid regulatory pathways and clinical implementation than standalone bioelectronics. This study provides a comprehensive review of the potential benefits of organic coatings in neuromodulation electrodes and the challenges that limit their effective integration into existing devices. It discusses issues related to metallic electrode use and introduces physical, electrical, and biological properties of organic coatings applied in neuromodulation. Furthermore, previously reported challenges related to organic coating stability, durability, manufacturing, and biocompatibility are thoroughly reviewed and proposed coating adhesion mechanisms are summarized. Understanding organic coating properties, modifications, and current challenges of organic coatings in clinical and industrial settings is expected to provide valuable insights for their future development and integration into organic bioelectronics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Three zero-dimensional organic metal halides with different emission characteristics were synthesized. • The photophysical properties of the as-synthesized compounds were investigated in detail. • We demonstrated Sb3+-doped compounds in single-component white light illumination latent fingerprint detection. • Based on Sb3+-doped Sn(IV) compounds, a triple-mode reversible PL switch of off-onI-onII-off was achieved under different external stimuli. The host lattice environments of Sb3+ has a great influence on its photophysical properties. Here, we synthesized three zero-dimensional organic metal halides of (TPA) 2 SbCl 5 (1), Sb3+-doped (TPA)SnCl 5 (H 2 O)·2H 2 O (Sb3+-2), and Sb3+-doped (TPA) 2 SnCl 6 (Sb3+-3). Compared with the intense orange emission of 1 , Sb3+-3 has smaller lattice distortion, thus effectively suppressing the exciton transformation from singlet to triplet self-trapped exciton (STE) states, which makes Sb3+-3 has stronger singlet STE emission and further bring a white emission with a photoluminescence quantum efficiency (PLQE) of 93.4%. Conversely, the non-emission can be observed in Sb3+-2 even though it has a similar [SbCl 5 ]2- structure to 1 , which should be due to its indirect bandgap characteristics and the effective non-radiative relaxation caused by H 2 O in the lattice. Interestingly, the non-emission of Sb3+-2 can convert into the bright emission of Sb3+-3 under TPACl DMF solution treatment. Meanwhile, the white emission under 315 nm excitation of Sb3+-3 can change into orange emission upon 365 nm irradiation, and the luminescence can be further quenched by the treatment of HCl. Therefore, a triple-mode reversible luminescence switch of off-onI-onII-off can be achieved. Finally, we demonstrated the applications of Sb3+-doped compounds in single-component white light illumination, latent fingerprint detection, fluorescent anti-counterfeiting, and information encryption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The field of smart materials is attaining global industrial importance rapidly. The ionic polymer metal composites withheld there importance in this field. They are not only used as biocompatible devices but also in the field of thin and conformal bio coatings. The nafion 117 is unstable at elevated temperatures and its water intake resistance is low, so the nafion 117 is coated with the noble material to increase its thermal stability and water resistant property. The high cost of noble metal make it's too costly to use in day to day applications so parylene has been used as substitute for noble metal in order to reduce the cost. The high thermal stability and water intake property if parylene make its suitable for the same. Multiple chemical treatments like plasma ionization and others have been done on the parylene coated nafion to increase its desirable properties considerably. The low adhesion rate between parylene and nafion 117 has been increased up to the certain extend by the use of ionized plasma. This paper reviewed the plasma chemical treatment of paryelene coatings for the biocompatible devices and provides an insight knowledge on classification, structure and thermal stability of the parylene coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new polyimine polymer (PL) containing sulphone functional groups was prepared from polycondensation of Schiff base (L) with terephthaloyl chloride at a very moderate condition. The polymer metal complexes were then synthesized from the reaction of polymer with metal salts. Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction analysis (XRD), thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), derivative thermogravimetry (DTG), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), and CHNS elemental analysis have been used to characterize all the synthesized materials. The excellent thermal stability of PL was specified by TGA. The optical features were assessed with the UV‐visible technique. The polymer complexes represent absorbance at the same wavelength as L and PL. The synthesized polymer metal complexes have a band gap varying from 3.19 (CuPL) to 2.77 (CdPL) eV. The inherent viscosities for the synthesized polymer is 0.4490 dL/g in DMF at 25 °C, indicating their moderate molecular weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs) have been growing potentially because of their applications in wearable biological applications and electrochemical sensors. These devices require efficient electronic transport and easy ion injection materials to sustain high capacity. OECTs of different channel dimensions and gate materials have been fabricated. The present study discusses how are the different employed electrolytes, channel dimensions, and gate materials affect transfer characteristics and transconductance (gm) and how unhydrated electrolytes like ionic liquid (IL) and solid gel decrease current modulation. In addition, we address how the nature of electrolytes plays a crucial role in determining OECTs regime of operations either capacitive or faradic. Also, the coupling product between the electron mobility and volumetric charge storage capacity (µC*) under different channel dimensions was found to be a key factor in designing and selecting organic mixed conductors for better steady-state OECTs performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study reports the fabrication result of a Ka-band waveguide for a low Earth orbit satellites using 3D printing and subsequent polymer metal coating. Electroless plating followed by electroplating proved effective in improving mechanical and adhesive characteristics. Both careful modification of the waveguide model and adjustment of the thickness of the Cu electroplating layer mitigated bowing issues during post-curing. The final Ka-band evaluation (26.5–30 GHz) showed an average S21 value of approximately 5.25 dB. Despite losses at the flange input and outlet, these results indicate the feasibility of the applied fabrication method for the use of Ka-band waveguides. Unlike existing studies focusing on Ku-band, this research emphasizes the challenging waveguide model for Ka-band, offering insights into SLA printing, post-curing methods, and metal coating on photopolymer surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

π‐Conjugated chiral nanorings with intriguing electronic structures and chiroptical properties have attracted considerable interests in synthetic chemistry and materials science. We present the design principles to access new chiral macrocycles (1 and 2) that are essentially built on the key components of main‐group electron‐donating carbazolyl moieties or the π‐expanded aza[7]helicenes. Both macrocycles show the unique molecular conformations with a (quasi) figure‐of‐eight topology as a result of the conjugation patterns of 2,2',7,7'‐spirobifluorenyl in 1 and triarylamine‐coupled aza[7]helicene‐based building blocks in 2. This electronic nature of redox‐active, carbazole‐rich backbones enabled these macrocycles to be readily oxidized chemically and electrochemically, leading to the sequential production of a series of positively charged polycationic open‐shell cyclophanes. Their redox‐dependent electronic states of the resulting multispin polyradicals have been characterized by VT‐ESR, UV/Vis‐NIR absorption and spectroelectrochemical measurements. The singlet (ΔES‐T=−1.29 kcal mol−1) and a nearly degenerate singlet‐triplet ground state (ΔES−T(calcd)=−0.15 kcal mol−1 and ΔES−T(exp)=0.01 kcal mol−1) were proved for diradical dications 12+2⋅ and 22+2⋅, respectively. Our work provides an experimental proof for the construction of electron‐donating new chiral nanorings, and more importantly for highly charged polyradicals with potential applications in chirospintronics and organic conductors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solid-state electromechanical smart material actuators are versatile as they permit diverse shapes and designs and can exhibit different actuation modes. An important advantage of these actuators compared to conventional ones is that they can be easily miniaturized to a sub-millimeter scale. In recent years, there has been a great surge in novel liquid pumps operated by these smart material actuators. These devices create opportunities for applications in fields ranging from aerospace and robotics to the biomedical and drug delivery industries. Although these have mainly been prototypes, a few products have already entered the market. To assist in the further development of this research track, we provide a taxonomy of the electromechanical smart material actuators available, and subsequently focus on the ones that have been utilized for operating pumps. The latter includes unidirectional shape memory alloy-, piezoelectric ceramic-, ferroelectric polymer-, dielectric elastomer-, ionic polymer metal composite- and conducting polymer-based actuators. Their properties are reviewed in the context of engineering pumps and summarized in comprehensive tables. Given the diverse requirements of pumps, these varied smart materials and their actuators offer exciting possibilities for designing and constructing devices for a wide array of applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examine the impact of temperature (T) on the Seebeck coefficient S, i.e., the T dependence of S for a single-component molecular conductor [Pd(dddt)2] (dddt = 5,6-dihydro-1,4-dithiin-2,3-dithiolate) with a half-filled band, where the coefficient is obtained from a ratio of the thermal conductivity to the electrical conductivity. The present paper demonstrates theoretically the novel result of large anisotropy in the Seebeck coefficient components of three-dimensional Dirac electrons in a molecular conductor. The conductor exhibits a nodal line with the energy variation around the chemical potential and provides the density of states (DOS) with a minimum. Using a threedimensional tight-binding (TB) model in the presence of both impurity and electron–phonon (e–p) scatterings, we study the Seebeck coefficient Sy for the molecular stacking and the most conducting direction. The impact of T on Sy exhibits a sign change, where Sy > 0 with a maximum at high temperatures and Sy < 0 with a minimum at low temperatures. The T dependence of Sy suggests that the contribution from the conduction (valence) band is dominant at low (high) temperatures. Further, it is shown that the the Seebeck coefficient components for perpendicular directions Sx and Sz are much smaller than Sy and present no sign change, in contrast to Sy. These results are analyzed in terms of the spectral conductivity as a function of the energy ϵ close to the chemical potential μ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The synthesis and properties of a series of 11,11,12,12‐tetracyano‐9,10‐anthraquinodimethane (TCAQ) inspired electron acceptors based on thiophene‐fused quinone and triptycene motifs is presented. This has yielded insights into structure‐property relationships for establishing and modulating simultaneous two‐electron reduction processes in TCAQ analogues. These new compounds were synthesised using a Friedel‐Crafts acylation between triptycene and thiophene‐3,4‐dicarbonyl chloride. Isomeric para‐quinones featuring a [c]‐fused thiophene on one side and a β,β‐ or α,β‐fused triptycene on the other were isolated alongside a thiophene‐3,4‐diketone which bears two triptycene fragments. Knoevenagel condensation of these products with malononitrile produced a quinoidal bis(dicyanomethylene), an oxo‐dicyanomethylene and an acyclic bis(dicyanomethylene). This series of new electron accepting molecules has been studied using X‐ray crystallography and the implications of their 3D structures on NMR and UV/vis absorbance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry results have been ascertained with conclusions underpinned by computational methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic metal complexes (OMCs) transport trace metals (e.g. , Co, Ni, Cu) from surface soils, via the unsaturated zone, to sites of cave carbonate (speleothem) formation. OMCs clearly imprint on speleothem trace element chemistry, but the role of kinetic factors in the signal transfer process has yet to be elucidated. We investigated whether OMCs may viably link metal concentrations in stalagmites and local hydrology (i.e. , drip rate), via their time-sensitive dissociation (or 'decay') in the speleothem water thin-film. We performed competitive ligand exchange experiments using water and soil samples from eight geographically diverse Aotearoa New Zealand caves, providing a first comparative characterisation of speleothem-specific OMC kinetics. Critically, this approach corroborated that NOM ligands limit transition metal availability at the dripwater-speleothem interface, exhibiting stabilities on the order Cu ≈ Co > Ni, whereas organic complexation of the alkaline earth metals Mg and Sr was virtually absent. Systematic variations of OMC stability with natural organic matter characteristics were not observed amongst water samples, whilst enhanced complexation was clearly evident in the comparably organic-rich soil extracts. Our results imply that the supply of transition metals to speleothems is inversely related to drip rate, increasing with drip interval via the decay of OMCs. This process appears most sensitive on time-scales relevant to typical speleothem-forming settings (<0 to ca. 40 drips min−1, corresponding to ca. <5.6 mL min−1), and therefore provides a general, mechanistic link to a quantitative proxy of palaeoclimatic cave drip rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interaction between excited states of a molecule and excited states of a metal nanostructure (e.g., plasmons) leads to hybrid states with modified optical properties. When plasmon resonance is swept through molecular transition frequency, an avoided crossing may be observed, which is often regarded as a signature of strong coupling between plasmons and molecules. Such strong coupling is expected to be realized when 2|⟨U⟩|/ℏΓ > 1, where ⟨U⟩ and Γ are the molecule–plasmon coupling and the spectral width of the optical transition, respectively. Because both ⟨U⟩ and Γ strongly increase with decreasing distance between a molecule and a plasmonic structure, it is not obvious that this condition can be satisfied for any molecule–metal surface distance. In this work, we investigate the behavior of ⟨U⟩ and Γ for several geometries. Surprisingly, we find that if the only contributions to Γ are lifetime broadenings associated with the radiative and nonradiative relaxation of a single molecular vibronic transition, including effects on molecular radiative and nonradiative lifetimes induced by the metal, the criterion 2|⟨U⟩|/ℏΓ > 1 is easily satisfied by many configurations irrespective of the metal–molecule distance. This implies that the Rabi splitting can be observed in such structures if other sources of broadening are suppressed. Additionally, when the molecule–metal surface distance is varied keeping all other molecular and metal parameters constant, this behavior is mitigated due to the spectral shift associated with the same molecule–plasmon interaction, making the observation of Rabi splitting more challenging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a hybrid material, metal organic frameworks (MOFs) contain unique characteristics for biomedical applications such as high porosity, large surface area, different crystalline morphologies, and nanoscale dimensions. These frameworks are assembled through the interconnection of organic linkers with metal nodes, while the engineering of an MOF for biomedical applications requires versatile linkers with acceptable symmetry. Porphyrin, as an organic linker with interesting photochemical and photophysical properties, attracted the attention of many for engineering the potent multifunctional porphyrinic metal organic frameworks (PMOFs). In this regard, a large number of approaches were conducted for designing robust practical PMOFs with a wide range of applications. In this review, we introduced another perspective of MOFs and coordination polymers constructed from porphyrinic linkers with a special focus on those synthesized by meso-tetrakis (4-carboxyphenyl) porphyrin (TCPP). In the following, we summarized and discussed the different types of PMOFs and their biomedical applications in terms of diagnostic agent, therapeutic platform, and drug delivery vehicle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the most fascinating aspects of condensed matter is its ability to conduct electricity, which is particularly pronounced in conventional metals such as copper or silver. Such behavior stems from a strong tendency of valence electrons to delocalize in a periodic potential created by ions in the crystal lattice of a given material. In many advanced materials, however, this basic delocalization process of the valence electrons competes with various processes that tend to localize these very same valence electrons, thus driving the insulating behavior. The two such most important processes are the Mott localization, driven by strong correlation effects among the valence electrons, and the Anderson localization, driven by the interaction of the valence electrons with a strong disorder potential. These two localization processes are almost exclusively considered separately from both an experimental and a theoretical standpoint. Here, we offer an overview of our long-standing research on selected organic conductors and manganites, that clearly show the presence of both these localization processes. We discuss these results within existing theories of Mott–Anderson localization and argue that such behavior could be a common feature of many advanced materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study the behavior of Cu(II) and Zn(II) complexes with ethylenediamine and 2,2′:6′,2′′ terpyridine in an aqueous environment was studied by classical MD simulations. Special attention was paid to the effect of Cu2+ for Zn2+ substitution on complex water surroundings and mobility. The replacement of a metal ion affects the structure of the complex water environment only in the vicinity of its location. However, it changes such a characteristic as the lifetime of a water molecule in the first coordination shell of a metal which can significantly affect the mobility of the complex. Moreover, the degree of influence on translational and rotational mobility can be different. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High‐performance polymers have proliferated in modern society across a variety of industries because of their low density, good chemical stability, and superior mechanical properties. However, while polymers are widely applied, frequent fire disasters induced by their intrinsic flammability have caused massive impacts on human beings, the economy, and the environment. Supramolecular chemistry has recently been intensively researched to provide fire retardancy for polymers via the physical barrier and char‐catalyzing effects of supramolecular aggregates. In parallel, the noncovalent interactions between supramolecular and polymer chains, such as hydrogen bonding, π–π interactions, metal–ligand coordination, and synergistic interactions, can endow the matrix with enhanced mechanical strength. This makes it possible to integrate physical–chemical properties and noncovalent interactions into one supramolecular aggregate‐based high‐performance polymeric system on demand. However, fulfilling these promises needs more research. Here, we provide an overview of the latest research advances of fire‐retardant and high‐strength polymer materials based on supramolecular structures and interactions of aggregates. This work reviews their conceptual design, characterization, modification principles, performances, applications, and mechanisms. Finally, development challenges and perspectives on future research are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic conductors are a promising material for future electronics. Although, its processing is a big challenge. In this manuscript, we demonstrate micropatterning of polyaniline within the pores of a polycarbonate membrane to fabricate a device for a conductometric sensor. The aqueous dispersion of polyaniline particles was prepared by single pot oxidative polymerization of aniline monomer using dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid as a surfactant as well as a dopant, and the polyaniline from its aqueous dispersion was then precipitated within the pores of polycarbonate membrane by adding solvents of varying polarities. The phase diagram of precipitation was drawn by titrating the polyaniline dispersion with tetrahydrofuran solvent. The dispersion was characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and UV-Vis spectroscopy, as well as a transmission electron microscope. The molecular weight of the synthesized polyaniline was measured by gel permission chromatography. The morphology of polyaniline has been compared through transmission electron microscopy in its dispersed form and after precipitation. Field emission scanning electron microscopy was used to see the growth of channel formation of precipitated polyaniline within the pores of the polycarbonate membrane. The electroactivity of the precipitated polyaniline was measured by in-situ conductance measurement as a function of the electrochemical state. Polyaniline dispersion, synthesized by using dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid as a protonic acid as well as a soft template, is precipitated in the pores of the polycarbonate membrane to fabricate a device for a conductometric sensor. The electrochemical measurements revealed that the precipitated polyaniline pattern retains its electroactivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Styrene (St), 1,4 vinyl pyridine (4VP) monomers and divinyl benzene (DVB) monomer‐cum‐crosslinker at different molar ratios were subjected to emulsion polymerization in the presence of FeCl2, 6H2O/FeCl3⋅4H2O followed by the treatment with an aqueous ammonia solution to produce several iron oxide nanoparticles (IONs) impregnated crosslinked copolymer composites. The resulting polymer metal nanocomposites (PMNCs) were characterized by FTIR, proton and 13C NMR, UV–visible spectroscopy, XRD, XPS, DLS, magnetic properties, SEM and TEM. The PMNCs were used for batch and column adsorption and photocatalytic degradation of p‐nitrophenol (PNP) from water. The PMNC4 composite prepared with an styrene:4VP molar ratio of 5:1 (16.7 mol% 4VP), 4 wt.% DVB crosslinker and 0.025/0.05 molar ratios of Fe(II)/Fe(III) salts leads to an optimum batch equilibrium adsorption (qe, mg/g)/removal% of 496.36/99.3 PNP from aqueous PNP of concentration 100 mg/L. The same composite showed an equilibrium PNP adsorption (qe) of 114.2 mg/g polymer and a removal% of 26.8 for an inlet feed concentration (Ci, mg/L)/flow rate (Qt, mL/min)/bed height (h, mm) of 100/30/30 in a fixed bed. The PMNC4 polymer showed a photodegradation efficiency of 98% with a 1st order rate constant of 0.029 min−1 after 70 min of degradation of 100 mg/L PNP in solar light. Highlights: Copolymer network of styrene, 4 vinyl pyridine and DVB were synthesized.Iron oxide nanoparticles were introduced into the network in‐situ during synthesis.The metal polymer nanocomposites (PMNCs) were characterized.Synthesis parameters were optimized with respect to batch adsorption of PNP.PMNCs showed excellent fixed bed adsorption and photocatalytic degradation of PNP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper details the preparation of an aluminum-based organic metal complex doped with fluorine and nitrogen (2-Ml/Al–F–N). The synthesis method combines hydrothermal synthesis and calcination for modification. The catalyst was thoroughly characterized for its composition, structure, and morphology using various techniques, including XRD, FT-IR, XPS, SEM, TEM, and others. The electrochemical performance of the material was assessed using an electrochemical workstation, and gas chromatography was employed to analyze the results. DFT calculations were used to compute the material's properties and energy barrier diagram. The findings demonstrate that the catalyst exhibits a carbon nanoline morphology and showcases high catalytic activity in the CO2RR to CO. Notably, the catalyst exhibits excellent performance with a maximum current density of 14.08 mA cm−2 and a peak faradaic efficiency of 90.1% at −1.1 V vs. RHE. The active sites are predominantly located within the nanoline structure. The DFT calculations reveal that the introduction of ammonium fluoride during the synthesis process leads to the formation of a highly efficient fluorinated aluminum metal catalytic center derived from nonahydrate aluminum nitrate. This specific structure demonstrates excellent hydrogen suppression properties and effectively lowers desorption energy barriers, which enhances the CO2RR activity and promotes the electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 to CO. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Integration of bioelectronic devices in clinical practice is expanding rapidly, focusing on conditions ranging from sensory to neurological and mental health disorders. While platinum (Pt) electrodes in neuromodulation devices such as cochlear implants and deep brain stimulators have shown promising results, challenges still affect their long‐term performance. Key among these are electrode and device longevity in vivo, and formation of encapsulating fibrous tissue. To overcome these challenges, organic conductors with unique chemical and physical properties are being explored. They hold great promise as coatings for neural interfaces, offering more rapid regulatory pathways and clinical implementation than standalone bioelectronics. This study provides a comprehensive review of the potential benefits of organic coatings in neuromodulation electrodes and the challenges that limit their effective integration into existing devices. It discusses issues related to metallic electrode use and introduces physical, electrical, and biological properties of organic coatings applied in neuromodulation. Furthermore, previously reported challenges related to organic coating stability, durability, manufacturing, and biocompatibility are thoroughly reviewed and proposed coating adhesion mechanisms are summarized. Understanding organic coating properties, modifications, and current challenges of organic coatings in clinical and industrial settings is expected to provide valuable insights for their future development and integration into organic bioelectronics.

Aldol condensation is a cost‐effective and sustainable synthetic method, offering the advantages of low complexity, substrate universality, and high efficiency. Over the past decade, it has become popular for creating next‐generation organic functional materials, particularly rigid‐rod conjugated (semi)conductors. This review focuses on conjugated small molecules, oligomers, and polymeric (semi)conductors synthesized through aldol condensation, with emphasis on their remarkable features in advancing n‐type organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs), organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs), organic photovoltaics (OPVs), and organic thermoelectrics (OTEs) as well as NIR‐II photothermal conversion. Coherence character, optical properties, microstructure, and chain conformation are investigated to understand material‐property relationships. Future applications and challenges in this area are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The construction of low-symmetry topological supramolecular structures using bistable building blocks remains challenging. We report an unusual truncated triangular prismatic cage with D3h symmetry using a ligand with both cis- and trans-configurations upon coordination with metal. This work provides new ideas and methods for the future synthesis of low-symmetry topological supramolecules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Physical sensors have emerged as a promising technology for real‐time healthcare monitoring, which tracks various physical signals from the human body. Accurate acquisition of these physical signals from biological tissue requires excellent electrical conductivity and long‐term durability of the sensors under complex mechanical deformation. Conductive polymers, combining the advantages of conventional polymers and organic conductors, are considered ideal conductive materials for healthcare physical sensors due to their intrinsic conductive network, tunable mechanical properties, and easy processing. Doping engineering has been proposed as an effective approach to enhance the sensitivity, lower the detection limit, and widen the operational range of sensors based on conductive polymers. This approach enables the introduction of dopants into conductive polymers to adjust and control the microstructure and energy levels of conductive polymers, thereby optimizing their mechanical and conductivity properties. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of doping engineering methods to improve the physical properties of conductive polymers and highlights their applications in the field of healthcare physical sensors, including temperature sensors, strain sensors, stress sensors, and electrophysiological sensing. Additionally, the challenges and opportunities associated with conductive polymer‐based physical sensors in healthcare monitoring are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The journal article titled "Functional Molecular Materials Insights" is a special issue that celebrates Professor Manuel Almeida's 70th birthday. It includes fifteen contributions from renowned researchers in the field of molecular materials science. The articles cover a range of interdisciplinary topics, combining chemistry and physics. They explore subjects like the synthesis and magnetic properties of GaMo4Se8, nonthermal equilibrium processes in metal/insulator/organic semiconductor junctions, and the formation of Dirac cones in molecular conductors. The articles offer valuable insights into the behavior and potential applications of functional molecular materials. The document is an editorial that introduces a special issue of the journal Magnetochemistry, focusing on current research in molecular materials and related studies. It expresses gratitude to the authors and acknowledges the support of the editorial team. The issue includes research papers on topics such as metal-insulator transitions, spin-Peierls systems, and lanthanide-based metal-organic frameworks. [Extracted from the article]

The achievement of significant photoluminescence (PL) in lanthanide ions (Ln3+) has primarily relied on host sensitization, where energy is transferred from the excited host material to the Ln3+ ions. However, this luminous mechanism involves only one optical antenna, namely the host material, which limits the accessibility of excitation wavelength‐dependent (Ex‐De) PL. Consequently, the wider application of Ln3+ ions in light‐emitting devices is hindered. In this study, we present an organic–inorganic compound, (DMA)4LnCl7 (DMA+=[CH3NH2CH3]+, Ln3+=Ce3+, Tb3+), which serves as an independent host lattice material for efficient Ex‐De emission by doping it with trivalent antimony (Sb3+). The pristine (DMA)4LnCl7 compounds exhibit high luminescence, maintaining the characteristic sharp emission bands of Ln3+ and demonstrating a high PL quantum yield of 90–100 %. Upon Sb3+ doping, the compound exhibits noticeable Ex‐De emission with switchable colors. Through a detailed spectral study, we observe that the prominent energy transfer process observed in traditional host‐sensitized systems is absent in these materials. Instead, they exhibit two independent emission centers from Ln3+ and Sb3+, each displaying distinct features in luminous color and radiative lifetime. These findings open up new possibilities for designing Ex‐De emitters based on Ln3+ ions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Directional defects management in polycrystalline perovskite film with inorganic passivator is highly demanded while yet realized for fabricating efficient and stable perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Here, we develop a directional passivation strategy employing a two‐dimensional (2D) material, Cu‐(4‐mercaptophenol) (Cu‐HBT), as a passivator precursor. Cu‐HBT combines the merits of the targeted modification from organic passivator and excellent stability offered by inorganic passivator. Featuring with dense organic functional motifs on its surfaces, Cu‐HBT has the capability to "find" and fasten to the Pb defect sites in perovskites through coordination interactions during a spin‐coating process. During subsequent annealing treatment, the organic functional motifs cleave from Cu‐HBT and convert in situ into p‐type semiconductors, Cu2S and PbS. The resultant Cu2S and PbS not only serve as stable inorganic passivators on the perovskite surface, significantly enhancing cell stability, but also facilitate efficient charge extraction and transport, resulting in an impressive efficiency of up to 23.5 %. This work contributes a new defect management strategy by directionally yielding the stable inorganic passivators for highly efficient and stable PSCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sustainable water desalination and purification membrane processes require new practical pathways to improve their efficiency. To this end, the inclusion of two-dimensional materials in membrane structure has proven to have a significant impact in various applications. In particular, in processes such as membrane distillation and crystallization, these materials, thanks to their characteristics, help to increase the recovery of clean water and, at the same time, to improve the quality and the production of the recovered salts. Therefore, a fundamental aspect of obtaining 2D materials with certain characteristics is the technique used for the preparation. This review provides a broad discussion on the preparation and proprieties of 2D materials, including examples of organic structures (such as graphene and structures containing transition metals and organic metals). Finally, the critical challenges, future research directions, and the opportunities for developing advanced membranes based on 2D materials are outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photo-induced carrier dynamics were measured in the organic Dirac electron candidate  α -(BETS) 2 I 3  to investigate why resistivity increases below  T MI  = 50 K. We found a change in carrier dynamics due to an insulating gap formation below  T ′  = 50 K. On the other hand, the relaxation time and polarization anisotropy of the observed dynamics differ from those in the charge-ordering (CO) state of the isostructural salt  α -(ET) 2 I 3 . Based on the difference, it can be concluded that the insulating phase has a different origin than the CO state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]