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Bi2MoO6 nanospheres with surface oxygen vacancies (SOVs) controlled by the calcination process were prepared in this study. Performance testing revealed that the Bi2MoO6-4 sample (Bi2MoO6 calcined at 350 °C for 4 h) with SOVs achieved a remarkable photocatalytic degradation efficiency up to 99.16% for Rhodamine B (RhB) within 50 min, which is 2.19 times higher than that of pure Bi2MoO6. The higher photocatalytic performance of the Bi2MoO6-4 sample is attributed to the SOVs' defect level located at the Bi2MoO6 bandgap, narrowing the bandgap to effectively promote the photogenerated charge separation. The promotion of photocarrier separation and electron were transferred due to the Bi–O bond breakage in the Bi2MoO6-4 [Bi2O2]2+ layer, which mediates the defect level of SOVs in the band structure. The density functional theory calculation results reveal the possible formation site of the oxygen vacancy and the vacancy-induced defect states. This study provides a new approach for fabricating new photocatalysts with surface oxygen defects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because copper phthalocyanine (CuPc) has significant uses in industrial devices and pigments, it is a subject of great interest in basic scientific research. Studying and adjusting its photoelectric qualities, in particular, has drawn much attention. In this work, in situ high-pressure experiments were used to investigate in detail the vibrational and optical properties of ground-state β-CuPc up to 13 GPa. Both micro-Raman and ultraviolet and visible light (UV–vis) absorption measurements revealed a phase transition occurring around 3 GPa. Notably, the macrocycle breathing vibration was found to have a remarkable characteristic of first weakening and then strengthening in response to this pressure-induced phase transition. The UV–vis absorption data revealed that the bandgaps corresponding to the two absorption edges decrease gradually with increasing pressure, with one edge disappearing entirely above 11 GPa. Furthermore, the blue β-CuPc can be adjusted to dark green at 10 GPa and ultimately entirely black due to the merging of its absorption bands and redshifts at high pressure. This work improves our understanding of CuPc's intrinsic characteristics under harsh settings and manipulates its color effectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photochromic yttrium oxyhydride (YHO) shows a very attractive color-neutral darkening upon photoactivation. However, the exact defect or state responsible for the visible light absorption or the mechanism for its creation is not fully understood. This makes it challenging to optimize and modify the material. In this work, we have investigated the relationship between photon absorption and darkening profile into a YHO film. The extinction coefficient k(λ) is obtained from spectroscopic ellipsometry, and the expected photon absorption profile is calculated. This is then compared to transmittance data during photodarkening by short-wavelength UV (254 nm). Our results show that the darkening is not homogeneous through the film, showing that photon absorption and darkening are positionally correlated, yet we show that the darkening stretches further into the film than the calculated photon absorption. A homogeneously darkened sample cannot always be assumed when assessing optical transmittance, absorbance, and ellipsometry data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Corn-like ZnO/Ag2S heterojunctions are designed and prepared by the solvothermal method and the subsequent covering process. They construct a type II core–shell heterojunction structure. This structure adjusts the relative positions of electron energy levels and generates a strong and broad absorption band, while emitting weak visible light. It also facilitates the transfer of photoexcited carriers through the interface and the confinement of the same by the different components of the nanostructure. Separation of electrons and holes makes them possible to drift to the surface of ZnO and Ag2S and to participate in the redox reactions. In addition, the presence of many defects produces many active sites on the surface of the lattice. So, the ZnO/Ag2S heterojunctions exhibit excellent photocatalytic properties in the first and second cycles of the photocatalytic process. It degrades 97.7% Rhodamine B only in 18 min. This study plays a significant role in promoting visible light catalysis, the efficiency of wastewater treatment technology, and the water environment on the earth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We attempted to deposit a platinum (Pt) layer onto a tungsten trioxide (WO3) thin film (Pt/WO3). The Pt layer deposited on WO3 was oxidized by calcining Pt/WO3 in air to form PtOx/WO3. An n-type anomalous photo-thermoelectric (photo-TE) effect was confirmed for Pt/WO3 and Pt/HyWO3−x. HyWO3−x is a protonated WO3 after the gaschromic (GC) reaction of WO3 in Pt/WO3. The anomalous photo-TE effect was that both the electrical conductivity (σphoto) and the absolute value of the Seebeck coefficient (Sphoto) increased under UV light or visible light irradiation. After stopping the irradiation, σphoto and Sphoto decreased. In contrast, an n-type normal photo-TE effect was observed for PtOx/HyWO3−x after the GC reaction of PtOx/WO3, in which σphoto increased and the absolute value of Sphoto decreased under ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation, and vice versa after stopping the irradiation. These findings indicate that Pt was responsible for the anomalous photo-TE effect due to the electron accumulation capability of Pt, to which electrons were transferred from the conduction band of HyWO3−x. In contrast, electrons could not energetically transfer from HyWO3−x to PtO2, which existed in PtOx particles at the surface. Therefore, PtOx/HyWO3−x behaved similar to sole HyWO3−x, indicating the normal photo-TE effect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

β-LiGaO2 with a wurtzite-like crystal structure is a direct ultra-wide bandgap semiconductor. Similar to many wide bandgap oxides, the valence band of LiGaO2 is predominantly composed of O-2p orbital, leading to a low valence band position, drastically limiting its applications. In this work, we employ first-principles calculations to demonstrate that adding a small amount of Bi into LiGaO2 to form the highly mismatched Li(Ga1−xBix)O2 alloys can dramatically modulate the valence band compositions. Compared to LiGaO2, the valence band maximum of the alloys is significantly elevated, and a fully occupied intermediate valence band appears, further raising the valence band positions. Despite the appearance of intermediate valence bands that significantly reduce the alloys' bandgap, the bandgap remains over 3.10 eV, ensuring visible light transparency. With increasing Bi composition in the alloys, the bulk modulus increases while the shear modulus gradually decreases, which improves the ductility. Moreover, the compliant elastic constants of the alloys indicate mechanical stability. These findings suggest that Li(Ga1−xBix)O2 alloys are promising flexible transparent conductive oxides, offering valuable insights for future applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigates the impact of biaxial strain on monolayer black phosphorus (BP) through first-principles calculations, confirming its stability and subsequently modifying its photocatalytic performance. Under biaxial strain, BP exhibits a direct bandgap suitable for photocatalytic hydrogen production during water splitting, albeit with limitations due to its valence band maximum edge. A distinctive GaN/BP heterojunction is proposed, featuring a direct bandgap and advantageous band edge positions conducive to efficient photocatalytic overall water splitting. Under the influence of biaxial strain, the heterojunction type undergoes a transition from direct type-I to direct type-II and Z, augmenting the separation of photoexcited electrons and holes and markedly enhancing the efficiency of photocatalytic hydrogen production. Furthermore, the heterojunction exhibits commendable capabilities in absorbing visible light. This research provides a promising avenue to surmount the constraints associated with monolayer BP in photocatalysis, offering valuable insights for the development of efficient photocatalytic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amorphous carbon nitride (a-CNx) films, prepared by reactive radio frequency magnetron sputtering, exhibit unique characteristics under visible light irradiation, referred to as photoinduced deformation. This phenomenon represents an energy conversion system wherein photon energy transforms into kinetic energy. The chemical bonding structure of a-CNx films was analyzed using near-edge x-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) at the NewSUBARU synchrotron facility of the University of Hyogo, Japan. This analysis aimed to elucidate the mechanisms behind the photoinduced deformation observed in a-CNx films. Three variants of a-CNx films, displaying varying degrees of photoinduced deformation, were deposited using a graphite target and nitrogen gas under different deposition temperatures. The NEXAFS spectra of the a-CNx films with substantial photoinduced deformation showed changes under light irradiation from a Xe lamp (directed through an optical window within the NEXAFS chamber). Specifically, the peaks corresponding to the 1s to π* transition related to C—C and 1s to σ* transition related to C—N bonds exhibited high sensitivity to visible light irradiation. Simultaneously, the N K-edge spectra associated with the 1s to π* transition, attributed to the N—C bond, exhibited a slight intensity decrease. Conversely, the C K-edge spectrum in the a-CNx films displaying minimal photoinduced deformation remained unchanged under visible light irradiation. The N K-edge spectra maintained a consistent shape under both visible light and dark conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 3D-deposited AgNW/TiO2, which is prepared by spray-applying titanium dioxide suspension to deposited silver nanowire sheets, the synergistic effects of increased crossing points of AgNWs to enhance localized surface plasmon resonance excitation and longer-lived electrons in the conduction band of TiO2 generated by plasmon-induced charge transfer have successfully resulted in photocatalytic activity in the visible light range. We have developed photocatalytic sheets in which TiO2 particles are uniformly attached to 3D-deposited AgNWs. Regarding the prepared sheet, it was confirmed that TiO2 was indeed well adhered to the AgNWs, and electron transfer was efficient at the interface. This sheet solves the problem that the response wavelength range of the photocatalytic reaction using TiO2 is only in the ultraviolet region and exhibits sufficient photocatalytic effect in the visible light region. Transient absorption spectroscopy measurements in the diffuse reflectance configuration confirmed that the electrons of AgNWs actually move into the conduction band of TiO2 under visible light and that the interaction is independent of the excitation light intensity, thereby extending the lifetime of the electrons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we used the non-hydrolytic sol–gel methodology to synthesize gadolinium vanadate particles doped with different Er3+ and Yb3+ molar ratios. Er3+ and Yb3+ chlorides and vanadium alkoxide were used as precursors during the sol–gel synthesis. The resulting powders were treated at 800 °C and characterized by x-ray diffraction and photoluminescence. The x-ray diffractogram displayed peaks attributed to the gadolinium vanadate matrix. Photoluminescence helped to evaluate the Fluorescence Intensity Ratio (FIR), which is important for understanding the nanothermometer property. The FIR of the GdVO4:Er3+/Yb3+ samples containing different Er3+ and Yb3+ molar ratios increased as a function of the laser power, which indicated that the local temperature increased. The excitation spectra obtained at fixed wavelengths of 525 and 555 nm displayed bands at 322, 379, and 489 nm, ascribed to the charge transfer band and Er3+ levels. Upon excitation at 321 nm, the emission spectra in the visible region presented intense bands at 525 and 555 nm, due to Er3+ emission, and excitation at 321 nm led to emission in the infrared region, 980 and 1550 nm. In conclusion, the synthesized system can be employed as a temperature sensor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The precise detection of target substances through refractive-index sensing is essential in various fields such as environmental monitoring, food assessment, and optical applications. This study demonstrates a real-time refractive index sensor based on a liquid-infiltrated metal-insulator-metal island (MIMi) structure in a lithography-free manner. In the MIMi structure, the top layer of the metal islands is formed through solid-state dewetting, which serves as an etching mask to form nanopillars in the insulator layer. This allows for the infiltration of external substances, resulting in different structural colors depending on the refractive index. This design results in a redshift of the resonance peak as the infiltrated refractive index increases. Furthermore, by adjusting the area fraction of the metal-island layer and etching depth of the insulator layer, the resonance-peak position can be controlled within the visible range according to the target refractive index. The advantages of our design are the use of cost-effective materials and the ability to implement scalable fabrication. Our proposed method offers a convenient method to sense the target refractive index in real time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Antiferromagnetic materials have recently been proposed as new types of terahertz (THz) range spintronic devices owing to their ultrafast spin dynamics. Manipulating their spin dynamics expediently, however, remains a key challenge. Here, we demonstrate the laser excitation of magnons in a prototypical antiferromagnet NiO via spin–phonon coupling. The terahertz time-domain spectrum revealed the frequencies of antiferromagnetic magnons near 1 THz. Laser excitations in the visible spectrum caused a noticeable softening of the magnons. Raman spectroscopy results established the presence of optical phonons. The laser heating effect was excluded by finite-element analysis and variable-temperature measurements. The temperature- and power-dependent properties suggest an optical phonon–magnon coupling mechanism. Laser excitation raises the optical phonon temperature, linked with the magnon temperature, via the magnon–phonon interaction. Consequently, the magnon temperature rises, and the magnon mode frequency softens. Our findings shed light on spin–phonon coupling in antiferromagnetic insulators and open a route for creating rapid opto-spintronic devices that utilize antiferromagnetic materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The immobilization of Re(I) complexes onto metal oxide surfaces presents an elegant strategy to enhance their stability and reusability toward photocatalytic CO2 reduction. In this study, the photocatalytic performance of fac-[ClRe(CO)3(dcbH2)], where dcbH2 = 4,4′-dicarboxylic acid-2,2′-bipyridine, anchored onto the surface of 1%m/m CuO/Nb2O5 was investigated. Following adsorption, the turnover number for CO production (TONCO) in DMF/TEOA increased significantly, from ten in solution to 370 under visible light irradiation, surpassing the TONCO observed for the complex onto pristine Nb2O5 or CuO surfaces. The CuO/Nb2O5 heterostructure allows for efficient electron injection by the Re(I) center, promoting efficient charge separation. At same time CuO clusters introduce a new absorption band above 550 nm that contributes for the photoreduction of the reaction intermediates, leading to a more efficient CO evolution and minimization of side reactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Quantum technologies utilize photons in a wide range of spectra, from microwave to visible light. Interactions between photons at different frequencies can be mediated by the collective excitation of spins in a ferromagnetic material. Here, we present optic-to-microwave conversions using the spin mode. In the conversion system, we observe that the generation of microwaves can be controlled by the polarization of the infrared input. Furthermore, we miniaturize the system and demonstrate conversion in a cryogenic environment, where microwave photons can be manipulated in the quantum regime. We show that the conversion efficiency scales with the intensity of the infrared illumination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Semiconductor-based photocatalysts have become increasingly used in the removal of pollutants from wastewater, especially antibiotics. A series of composite-based cuprous oxide and bismuth vanadate (Cu2O/BiVO4) composite-based photocatalysts were synthesized by using the chemical method. The structure of the Cu2O/BiVO4 composite was verified by using x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, photoluminescence, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and UV–visible spectra. The degradation of methylene blue (MB) and tetracycline (TC) was investigated to check the photocatalytic activity of the Cu2O/BiVO4 composite series. The quantity of Cu2O was varied from 1% to 7% by weight to prepare the series of Cu2O/BiVO4 composites. The analysis of results verified that 5% Cu2O/BiVO4 exhibits an outstanding photocatalytic activity as compared to 1%, 3%, and 7% Cu2O/BiVO4, pure Cu2O, and pure BiVO4 under visible light irradiation. The optimum value of photocatalytic degradation achieved with 5% Cu2O/BiVO4 was 97% for MB dye and 95% for TC in 120 min, which is greater than the photocatalytic degradation of pure BiVO4 (MB 45% and TC 72%), pure Cu2O (MB 57% and TC 80%), 1% Cu2O/BiVO4 (MB 72% and TC 85%), 3% Cu2O/BiVO4 (MB 83% and TC 88%), and 7% Cu2O/BiVO4 (MB 87% and TC 91%). The stability and reusability of Cu2O/BiVO4 were also investigated. To check the major role of trapping in degradation, a trapping experiment was also performed by using three trapping agents: BQ, EDTA, and tBuOH. The results showed that Cu2O/BiVO4 exhibits an improved photocatalytic activity in the degradation of antibiotics in polluted water because the recombination rate of the electron–hole pair decreased and the surface area increased, which increased the active sites for redox reactions. Such a photocatalytic composite with high efficiency has various applications, such as energy production, environmental remediation, and water remediation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oblique shock wave–interface interactions of gases and liquids have been extensively studied in shock tubes using optical methods to measure equation-of-state (EOS) parameters. However, this is difficult with solids due to their opaqueness to visible light. X ray phase contrast imaging (XPCI) has the penetrative strength to probe solids while still being sensitive to mass density and enhancing the visibility of material boundaries. We investigate the accuracy and repeatability of measuring the mean value of the average mass density (areal density divided by thickness) over region S (B S) and flow deflection angle (θ) from XPCI images of a sample. To that end, a Hough transform-based method for measuring θ is developed. To measure B S , the XPCI image intensity probability density function (PDF) is modeled accounting for the spatial distribution of x ray energy, scintillator response, and pulse-to-pulse variation in the x ray intensity. In addition, a Monte Carlo-based algorithm for computing the B S PDF is developed. Both methods are validated on an impact-generated oblique shock wave interacting at a solid polymer-to-polymer interface. This is accomplished through a comparison to hydrodynamic simulations using well-established EOS. Under the modeling framework for the XPCI image intensity, B S is computed with an accuracy of < 0.1 % and precision of 3%–5%, while θ has an uncertainty of 0.2 ° , respectively. This shows that the XPCI-based model that is developed here could be an invaluable tool for high-fidelity testing of hydrodynamic models in shock polar configurations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The transformation of 2,5-diformylfuran (DFF) into renewable biomass-derived 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) is an attractive reaction. In this study, a novel photo-enzymatic catalysis system was established for selective oxidation of DFF into FDCA under mild conditions and through a one-pot process, in which 2-ethylanthraquinone served as the homogeneous photocatalyst for in situ H2O2 production under visible light irradiation, while H2O2 served as the oxidant for the organic peracid-assisted oxidation of DFF into FDCA by commercial lipase (Lipozyme 435). Results indicated that the constitution of the buffering system evidently influenced both photocatalyst and lipase activities in the coupling system, which further affected the kinetics of the tandem reactions and FDCA yield. Under optimized conditions (2 mg mL−1 of 2-ethylanthraquinone, 3 mg mL−1 of lipase, 7 W and λ > 420 nm of the light source, and tert-butanol/ethanol ratio of 9 : 1 (v : v)), 84.14% ± 4.68% of FDCA yield with complete DFF conversion was realized. Mechanism investigation using molecular docking simulation indicated that H2O2 produced from the light reaction was consumed by lipase to generate peracetic acid from ethyl acetate that drove the selective oxidation of aldehyde groups in the DFF molecule. The novel visible-light-driven photo-enzyme coupling system successfully addressed the challenges associated with manually adding, storing, and transporting H2O2 in conventional DFF oxidation, thus showing promise in valorization of a broader range of aldehyde group-containing biomass-derived molecules into renewable chemicals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is well recognized as a sustainable C1 synthon for producing a variety of carboxylic acid derivatives, including important natural and synthetic amino acids. In recent years, the inertness and high stability of the CO2 molecule have been successfully overcome through various stoichiometric and catalytic methods. Among these, visible-light-induced photoredox catalysis has emerged as a popular and effective approach, offering a greener and more sustainable solution. Various carboxylation reactions involving C(sp3)–H, C(sp2)–H, C(sp)–H, and Ar–X have been successfully developed by using a suitable photocatalyst under visible light excitation. In this mini review, we explore recent progress in carboxylation reactions through the functionalization of C(sp3)–H bonds specifically in various organic molecules using molecular CO2 through photocatalysis including organo-photocatalysts, homogeneous photocatalysts and heterogeneous photocatalysts along with their application in the development of bioactive molecules such as (±)-clopidogrel, (±)-tirofiban intermediate and DL -DOPA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Using temperature modulation, two distinct hydrogen bond organic frameworks HOF-C and HOF-K with different pore sizes were synthesized from the same ligands, tris(4-(4H-1,2,4-triazole-4-yl)phenyl)amine. The pore size difference prevents TRZ from entering HOF-K, while allowing TRZ to selectively insert into the larger-pored HOF-C to form HOF-C-TRZ. The donor–acceptor (D–A) structure formed in HOF-C-TRZ enhances its photoelectric response and exhibits exceptional uranium reduction under visible light irradiation. This study provides an effective strategy for pore size regulation of HOFs and opens up new ideas for the development of advanced uranium photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a novel type-II As 2 C 3 /MoSi 2 N 4 van der Waals heterojunction with high carrier mobility. The heterojunction's excellent stability was verified using a combination of ab initio molecular dynamics and density functional theory (DFT). The DFT method was employed to calculate the mechanical properties, electronic properties, carrier mobility, power conversion efficiency, optical properties, and photocatalytic water splitting characteristics of the heterojunction. In addition, this study discusses the effects of biaxial strain (−8% to +8%) and electric fields (−0.4 V/Å to +0.4 V/Å) on the band structure of the heterojunction. The results indicate that the band gap value of the heterojunction at the HSE06 level is 2.0507 eV, and the band type is type-II band alignment. The electron mobility of heterojunction in the x (y) direction reaches up to 89215.27 cm2V⁻1s⁻1 (48222.81 cm2V⁻1s⁻1). The power conversion efficiency of the heterojunction is 12.59%. The absorption coefficient of the heterojunction in the visible light range reaches up to 1 × 105 cm−1. The band edge positions of the heterojunction under different strain conditions meet the redox potentials for water splitting at both pH = 0 and pH = 7. The heterojunction can still maintain the type-II band structure under the external electric field. [Display omitted] • As 2 C 3 /MoSi 2 N 4 heterostructure meet the redox potentials for overall water splitting. • The electron mobility reaches up to 89215.27 cm2V⁻1s⁻1. • The light absorption in the visible light range reaches up to 105 cm−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • CA-Cu/TCN was fabricated by a citric acid (CA)-initiated self-assembly strategy. • CA induced the formation of tubular morphology, bridging C replacement, and N defects. • Ultra-dispersed CuN x sites and N vacancies resulted in excellent activity of CA-Cu/TCN. • Efficient degradation of ciprofloxacin (95.9 %) in CA-Cu/TCN photo-Fenton system. • Ciprofloxacin degradation was a gradual detoxification process for harmless disposal. The low utilization of visible light and easy recombination of charge carriers of graphitic carbon nitride (CN) restrain its application as photo-electron donor and metal site support in photo-Fenton system. Herein, a hydrogen bond-induced supramolecular self-assembly strategy was created to fabricate an ultra-dispersed Cu-loaded porous tubular CN composite (CA-Cu/TCN) by the hydrothermal–pyrolysis method with citric acid (CA) as initiator and chelating agent. CA-Cu/TCN with rich nitrogen vacancies (NVs) and abundant ultra-dispersed CuN x sites exhibited narrow bandgap, favorable visible light absorption capability, and high separation and transfer efficiency of charge carriers. CA-Cu/TCN effectively catalyzed the activation of H 2 O 2 for generating abundant reactive oxygen species under visible light irradiation, contributing to efficient degradation of ciprofloxacin (CIP) with removal rate of 95.9 % and kinetic rate constant of 0.0948 min−1. The superior catalytic activity of CA-Cu/TCN can be ascribed to the effective transport of photogenerated electrons, high specific surface area, atomically dispersed Cu species, and enriched surface NVs. The mechanism of photo-Fenton catalytic degradation of CIP and possible degradation pathways were proposed as the dominant role of 1O 2. Toxicity evaluation of CIP and intermediates indicated that the degradation of CIP was a gradual detoxification process. This work offers a novel self-assembly strategy to design and synthesize highly active and sustainable visible light-driven photo-Fenton catalysts for effectively degrading organic pollutants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Indoor air pollution, predominantly caused by volatile organic compounds (VOCs), poses significant health hazards when concentrations surpass critical thresholds. Using waste corn straw as carbon source and urea as nitrogen source, straw derived carbon aerogel (CAGH) loaded with g-C 3 N 4 H 2 O-N 2 -450–3 h was successfully prepared by hydrothermal and water-assisted calcination. Following water-assisted regulation, g-C 3 N 4 H 2 O-N 2 -450–3 h on CAGH exhibited a mixed structure comprising honeycomb and two-dimensional filaments, while the growth of g-C 3 N 4 H 2 O-N 2 -450–3 h was uniformly distributed on carbon aerogel in a line-surface combination fashion. This innovative binding method not only enhanced the loading capacity of g-C 3 N 4 and the mechanical elasticity of aerogel, but also exposed a large number of adsorption sites, resulting in a significant increase in its adsorption capacity for VOCs, exceeding that of commercial activated carbon (AC). In comparison to pure g-C 3 N 4 , CAGH exhibited an expanded photo-response range. Under the exposure of visible light, CAGH proved highly effective in eliminating 73.87 % of toluene. In addition, it has demonstrated efficient removal of formaldehyde and acetone VOCs with good cyclic stability. Therefore, this work aims to reduce the emission of pollutants at source and provide an effective and economical strategy for the preparation of clean building materials from renewable materials, with potential applications in the environmental field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Synthesis of waterborne smart polymer particles containing spiropyran. • Synergistic effect of flexibility and polarity of polymers on optical properties. • Fabrication of multi-functional smart electrospun polymer fibers. • Preparation of MXene-enhanced multi-functional smart electrospun fibers. • Time-dependent photo-switchable wettability of MXene-based electrospun fibers. Switchable wettability potential in smart fibers is of paramount importance in various applications. Light-induced controllable changes in surface wettability have a significant role in this area. Herein, smart waterborne homopolymer, functional copolymer with different polarity and flexibility, and multi-functional terpolymer particles containing a time-dependent dual-responsive acrylated spiropyran, as a polymerizable monomer, were successfully synthesized through eco-friendly single-step emulsifier-free emulsion polymerization. Presence of 10 wt% of butyl acrylate and dimethylaminoethyl methacrylate relative to methylmethacrylate as functional comonomers decreased the T g of the samples almost 20 ℃ and increased their polarity. The optical properties of the particles were investigated, and the UV–vis and fluorescence spectroscopy results showed that not only polarity and flexibility of the polymer chains may have a positive effect on improving the optical properties, but also the simultaneous presence of functional groups has a synergistic effect. The smart polymer particles with flexibility and polarity features exhibited higher absorption and emission compared to other samples. Inspired by these findings, multi-functional smart polymer fibers were prepared using the electrospinning method. The smart multi-functional electrospun fibers containing few-layer Ti 3 C 2 MXenes were synthesized to improve the fibers' properties and change the surface wettability due to the hydrophilic functional groups of MXene. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy images displayed the successful preparation of few-layer MXenes. Smooth and bead-free fibers with bright red fluorescence emission under UV irradiation were shown using fluorescence microscopy. The study on the surface wettability of fibers revealed that UV and visible light irradiation induced reversible time-dependent changes in the wettability of the smart multi-functional MXene/polymer electrospun fibers from hydrophobic to hydrophilic, reaching a water contact angle of 10° from an initial water contact angle of 100° under UV light and also changing to superhydrophilic state with passing time. Upon visible light exposure, the fibers returned to their original state. Furthermore, the fibers demonstrated a high stability over five alternating cycles of UV and visible light irradiation. This study shows that the fabrication of time-dependent smart fibers, utilizing the flexibility and polarity in the presence of MXenes, significantly improves and controls surface wettability changes. The outstanding dynamically photo-switchable wettability of these fibers may offer exciting opportunities in various applications, especially in the separation of oil from water contaminants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Constructing a photocatalytic in-situ Fenton system (PISFs) is a promising strategy to address the need for continuous hydrogen peroxide (H 2 O 2) addition and the low efficiency of H 2 O 2 activation for hydroxyl radical generation in the traditional Fenton reaction. In this study, we constructed a photocatalytic in-situ Fenton system using anthraquinone-modified carbon nitride (AQ-C 3 N 4) for efficient pollutant degradation. The resultant AQ-C 3 N 4 not only enhanced the production of H 2 O 2 but also increased the generation of hydroxyl radical (·OH). Experimental results demonstrated that, the apparent rate constant for the degradation of 2,4-Dichlorophenol (2,4-DCP) by AQ-C 3 N 4 -PISFs was 0.145 min−1, which is 2.74 times higher than that of C 3 N 4 under visible light. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations indicate that AQ modification promotes electron-hole separation while increasing the adsorption energy of O 2. Independent gradient model (IGM) analysis based on Hirshfeld Partition revealed that van der Waals interactions between AQ-C 3 N 4 and 2,4-DCP promoted the degradation process. This work provides new ideas to overcome the problems of continuous addition of H 2 O 2 and low utilization of ·OH that exist in conventional Fenton system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • IO-CFTi composite is self-assembled TiO 2 inverse opal covered with IL-CuCQDs-F via Ti F bonds. • TiO 2 inverse opal efficiently trigger photo-catalysis via a slow photon effect. • Cu-N/Imidazole IL-CuCQDs-F extends visible light absorption and boosts e− / h + separation and CO 2 capture. • IO-CFTi showed ultra-high CO production rate (78.1 μmol/g‧h) with 98 % selectivity. Photocatalytic reduction of CO 2 exhibits unsatisfactory photocatalytic performance owing to the inefficient separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs, low CO 2 capture efficiency and limited visible light absorption on most photo-catalysts. Herein, Ti F bridged IL-CuCQDs-F/TiO 2 inverse opal composite (IO-CFTi) was constructed for boosting CO 2 visible-photo reduction via slow photo effect. In this work, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA(Cu)) and imidazole ionic liquid 1-(2-Hydroxyethyl)-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([HOEtMIM][BF 4 ]) were employed to confine grow of IL-CuCQDs-F within TiO 2 inverse opal supporter via Ti F bonds connection. Unique IL-CuCQDs-F efficiently expended light absorption towards visible region, and the confined growth of IL-CuCQDs-F within the TiO 2 inverse opal cavity achieved the photoelectric conversion and efficient CO 2 capture. Moreover, their Ti F bonding interface of IO-CFTi assisted photogenerated electron transportation from TiO 2 to CO 2 for its reduction in this system. Consequently, IO-CFTi achieved a substantially increased CO production rate of 78.1 μmol·h−1·g−1 with 98 % selectivity. This improved performance in CO 2 photoreduction positions the nanocomposite as a promising material for preservation of the environment and conversion of energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractThe widespread use of antibiotics has led to significant water pollution. Photocatalysis can effectively degrade antibiotics, but the performance is greatly limited by the photogenerated carrier recombination in the photocatalytic material g-C3N5. Constructing heterojunctions can enhance interfacial charge transfer, leading to more stable and efficient photocatalysis. This study synthesized a Fe2O3/g-C3N5 heterojunction using the solvothermal method. The Z-scheme charge transfer mechanism facilitated efficient separation of photogenerated carriers, preserving photoelectrons and holes with high redox activity. This process generated a substantial amount of highly reactive free radicals such as ·O2− and ·OH, enabling the efficient degradation of tetracycline (TC). Under the optimal conditions of initial concentration of TC was 200 mg/L, the quality ratio of Fe2O3 and g-C3N5 was 1:2, the catalyst dosage was 50 mg and pH = 7.0, the TC degradation rate reached 92.46% within 60 min of visible light irradiation. The photocatalytic activity’s enhancement was attributed to broad spectral absorption and effective photogenerated carrier separation. Furthermore, the photocatalytic performance can be affected by the presence of inorganic salt ions such as HCO3− and CO32−. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Energy-efficient windows are essential for modern buildings, because they can greatly save the energy consumed for heating and cooling. The functionality of energy-efficient windows is realized through coating the glass with a transparent conductive film (TCF), which possesses both low infrared emissivity and high visible light transmission. However, fabricating high quality TCFs with sufficient properties for energy-efficient window applications is still very challenging. Under this context, we had tried to optimize the properties of indium tin oxide (ITO) films, that is one of the most widely used TCFs, through a combination of room temperature sputtering and post-annealing. Particularly, we had thoroughly investigated how the microstructure, morphology, and optoelectronic properties of ITO films changed after post-annealing. Our findings show that ITO films annealed using rapid annealing (RA) at high temperatures exhibit superior crystallinity, smoother surfaces and enhanced optoelectronic properties compared to those annealed using conventional thermal annealing (CTA). Notably, among all the ITO films prepared under different conditions, the one annealed at 700 °C through RA shows the lowest infrared emissivity of 0.14, and highest figure of merit value of 128.34, that is obtained with an average visible light transmittance of 86.42 % and a resistivity of 1.94 × 10−4 Ω⸱cm. This indicates that ITO films prepared via RA are promising candidates for use in energy-efficient window applications. Furthermore, the adherence of the infrared emissivity and resistivity results to the Hagen-Rubens theory, particularly as the resistivity is low, confirms the reliability of our experiments and highlights the excellent conductivity of ITO films fabricated in this study. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exploitation of photoelectrode materials with high-efficiency utilization of solar light, an outstanding separation property of photogenerated charges and a large surface area is extremely important yet significantly challenging. Herein, a three-dimensional array of reduced TiO2 nanobelts with a disordered surface and abundant oxygen vacancies was successfully constructed for PEC water splitting. As expected, the reduced 3D-TiO2 nanobelt array produced a photocurrent density of 0.96 mA cm−2 at 0.22 V vs. Ag/AgCl with a faradaic efficiency of 100%, corresponding to 2.4 times enhancement compared with that of the pristine 3D-TiO2 nanobelt array. Furthermore, IPCE was improved within both the UV and visible light regions. This enhancement originates primarily from the efficient utilization of UV-visible light as well as the promoted separation and transport of photogenerated charges induced by the cooperative effect of the disordered surface and oxygen vacancies. This research sheds new light on exploiting TiO2 nanobelts for PEC applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A unique metal-free and 100% atom-economical method for intramolecular oxyamination of alkynes with high stereoselectivity via visible light photocatalysis is developed. Utilizing a robotic and rapid photocatalytic synthesis and screening system capable of anhydrous and oxygen-free flow synthesis, the standard reaction conditions were extensively investigated and optimized with reduced sample consumption, and an inexpensive and efficient organic photosensitizer was rapidly and successfully found. Starting from inexpensive, widely and readily available propargyl alcohol feedstock materials, single Z configuration 2-aminoprop-1-ene-1,3-diol derivatives could be obtained with good functional group compatibility and broad substrate scope. A possible mechanism involving a nitrogen radical process and nucleophilic attack was proposed based on the radical inhibition experiment and the cross-over experiment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolution of hydrogen (H 2) from water using solar energy is one of the most promising solutions to the energy dilemma. Implementing a cost-effective photocatalyst that does not contain any noble metals is critical. Based on thiophene ring-doped polymer semiconductor carbon nitride (CNA), CNA/Co-dcbpy modified by Co-dcbpy, an active molecular complex cocatalyst, has been successfully designed. Following a mild reprocessing reaction, the amide bond formed between ligand dcbpy and CNA firmly binds Co-dcbpy to the skeleton of CNA. This structure not only realizes the terminal modification of CNA, but also contributes to a highly monodisperse of Co atoms, greatly increasing the active sites of photocatalytic reaction. This catalyst shows significant H 2 production of 1016 μmol h−1 g−1 under visible light, which is basically equivalent to the catalyst with the same Pt load. The doping of the electron-rich thiophene ring extends the π-conjugated system of CNA, enhances the visible light absorption, and promotes charge separation. The synergistic interaction with complex modification facilitates charge delocalization and mitigates carrier recombination. At the same time, the Co active sites enhanced the H adsorption-desorption balance, which was conducive to promote H 2 evolution. Therefore, the transition metal complex strategy is a strategic way to design cost-effective photocatalysts. [Display omitted] • Carbon nitride modified with transition metal complex Co-dcbpy was synthesized. • The formation of amide bonds securely anchored the complex to carbon nitride. • The modification by complex is conductive to the single-atom dispersion of Co. • Thiophene-ring doping and Co-complex grafting synergistic promote charge delocalization. • The Co-complex exhibits equivalent co-catalytic activity for H 2 evolution as Pt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalytic hydrogen production is one of the most promising techniques for solar energy conversion. Herein, we proposed photocatalysts based on graphitic carbon nitride g-C 3 N 4 with two-dimensional Ti 3 C 2 T x (MXene) for photocatalytic hydrogen production under visible light (430 nm). The synthesis of the 0.5–15 wt% Ti 3 C 2 T x /g-C 3 N 4 photocatalysts included thermal polycondensation of melamine and urea mixture to obtain g-C 3 N 4 with further deposition on its surface of Ti 3 C 2 T x obtained by conventional etching technique. Bulk and surface structure of the synthesized photocatalysts was established by a set of characterization techniques. The photocatalyst activity was tested in the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution from aqueous solutions of triethanolamine (TEOA), ethanol, and glucose. It was found that for all sacrificial agents, deposition of MXenes on the surface of g-C 3 N 4 increased the activity in the hydrogen production. The highest activity at the level of 100 μmol g−1 h−1 was achieved over 10 wt% Ti 3 C 2 T x /g-C 3 N 4 photocatalyst with TEOA as a sacrificial agent. In addition to the formation of hydrogen the presence of by-products, including CO, CO 2 , and other light hydrocarbons, was monitored. Relationships were established between the composition of the photocatalyst, the nature of the sacrificial agent and the distribution of reaction products. [Display omitted] • 0.5–15 % Ti 3 C 2 T x /g-C 3 N 4 was proposed for photocatalytic H 2 production (λ = 430 nm). • Triethanolamine, ethanol, and glucose were effectively used as sacrificial agents. • Ti 3 C 2 T x is shown to be effective cocatalyst for H 2 evolution under visible light. • Highest activity, 0.1 mmol H 2 g−1 h−1, was achieved over 10 wt % Ti 3 C 2 T x /g-C 3 N 4. • Ti 3 C 2 T x mass fraction and sacrificial agent control selectivity of H 2 evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents a novel 2D/2D step scheme α-Fe 2 O 3 /BiOBr/MoS 2 ternary integrating heterojunction with unparalleled visible-light-induced enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen (H 2) production. We report the first successful integration of α-Fe 2 O 3 /BiOBr nanostructures with ultrathin MoS 2 layers via a hydrothermal process. This distinctive heterojunction, composed of Nanosheets (NSs) well characterized using XRD, TEM, STEM, SEM, XPS, EDX, PL and UV techniques. A unique covalent connection between α-Fe 2 O 3 and BiOBr creates a BiOBr-OV system, which excels in charge carrier-mediated photocatalytic reactions. When we compared our ternary heterojunction containing more than one or two semiconductors with a single semiconductor, it showed perfect alignment of the bandgap, which is good for the disconnection of photogenerated carriers and also suppresses their recombination. So, these kinds of heterojunctions normally have higher hydrogen production rates. Until now binary composite α-Fe 2 O 3 /BiOBr shows the best activities as the photocatalyst, but when we compared it with our ternary composite α-Fe 2 O 3 /BiOBr/MoS 2 has an edge of minimum toxicity, tunable band gap, and maximum chemical stability up to ten cycles and also has best photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate under the visible light irradiation. The optimized composite, consisting of 0.5 wt% α-Fe 2 O 3 /BiOBr loaded with 10 wt% MoS 2 , exhibits remarkable stability over 180 h and achieves an exceptionally manifested quantum yield of 70.3% at 420 nm. A noteworthy breakthrough in solar hydrogen generation, this nanocomposite exhibits an astounding H 2 expansion rate of 57 mmol g−1h−1. The design principles established in this work have broad applicability for developing highly efficient materials for advanced energy storage and conversion systems. • Novel S-scheme α-Fe 2 O 3 /BiOBr/MoS 2 ternary nanoheterojunction developed for enhanced photocatalytic H 2 production. • The successful integration of α-Fe 2 O 3 /BiOBr nanostructures with ultrathin MoS 2 layers via hydrothermal process. • A unique covalent connection between α-Fe 2 O 3 and BiOBr creates a highly efficient BiOBr-OV system. • Optimized composite achieves an exceptional distinct quantum capitulate is 70.3% at 420 nm with remarkable 180 h stability. • The rate of H 2 evolution is 57 mmol g−1 h−1 indicating a major technological improvement in solar H 2 generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Easily recyclable photocatalysts hold great potential in the field of photocatalysis. Guided by rational theoretical predictions, this study designs a novel tetrapod-like Cd 0.9 Zn 0.1 S/NiCoB (CZS/NCB) Schottky heterojunction with magnetic and photothermal properties, and demonstrates its excellent photocatalytic hydrogen evolution performance. Under the combined effects of the photothermal properties and the Schottky heterojunction, the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate extraordinarily reaches 108.39 mmol g−1 h−1 after 3 h of visible light irradiation, which is 4.69 times that of pure CZS. Additionally, photocatalytic hydrogen evolution tests conducted using infrared thermography and alternating visible and visible plus infrared light irradiation have confirmed the material's outstanding photothermal properties. In-depth density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal potential charge transfer pathways and confirm the formation of the Schottky heterojunction. This work provides guidance for the rational construction of magnetic recoverable photocatalysts with practical application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Hydrothermal reactions synthesized BTO NRs/Bi 2 S 3 with a covered rod structure. • BTO NRs/Bi 2 S 3 exhibited outstanding piezo-photocatalytic activity. • The main reactive oxygen species produced during catalysis are the h+ and O 2 -. • The degradation solution for CTC showed a trend of decreasing toxicity. Although the presence of the built-in electric field will solve the problem of carrier complexation in photocatalytic systems to some extent. However, free carriers will quickly shield the stabilized electric field and lose its effect. Therefore, how to introduce the dynamic piezoelectric field into the photocatalytic system has become an imminent problem. Herein, we developed an overcoated, visible light responsive, piezoelectric-assisted photocatalytic system by depositing Bi 2 S 3 photocatalysts with a narrow-band system onto the surface of highly piezo-responsive BaTiO 3 nanorods (BTO NRs). The heterojunction structure, bound by Bi-O chemical bonding, enhances carrier transport efficiency under the influence of the piezoelectric field. In the degradation experiments, the first-order rate constant for the degradation of chlortetracycline hydrochloride (CTC) in the BTO NRs/Bi 2 S 3 system with the optimal complex ratio was 0.0276 min−1, which was 3.1 and 7.8 times higher than that of BTO NRs and Bi 2 S 3 , respectively. Additionally, we deduced the degradation pathways of CTC through a combination of Density functional theory (DFT) calculations and Liquid Chromatograph Mass Spectrometer (LC-MS), evaluating the toxicity of the intermediates. This complex system, featuring a highly photo-responsive semiconductor as a photo-acceptor deposited on a piezoelectric semiconductor surface providing a dynamic built-in electric field, enhances carrier separation efficiency under optimal light energy utilization conditions. These findings present novel and effective strategies for addressing two primary challenges in photocatalytic systems: low spectral utilization and significant photogenerated carrier complexation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Morphological transformation of BiOX was achieved via cellulose-derived carbon. • The morphologies of BiOX vary from disordered lamellae to regular flowers. • Such flower-like morphologies give obvious increases in surface area and porosity. • BiOX/CDC exhibited impressive photocatalytic activity for Cr(VI) reduction. Exquisitely tailoring the morphologies of photocatalysts could achieve high activities. In this study, the morphological transformation of bismuth oxyhalide (BiOX, X = Br, I and Cl) from disordered lamellae to regular flowers was facilely achieved via the use of carboxylated cellulose-derived carbon (CDC). The sphere-like structure and abundant surface functional groups of CDC induce the formation of such flower-like morphologies of BiOX/CDC, and this morphology results in a pronounced increase in surface area (e.g., the surface area of BiOBr increases from 3 to 106 m2 g−1) and porosity. Combined with the good light absorption and conductivity of CDC, the flower-like BiOX/CDC exhibited impressive photocatalytic activity under visible light. Regarding the probing Cr(VI) reduction reaction, the representative BiOBr/CDC is capable of reducing 98% of Cr(VI) within 30 min of visible-light illumination, which is markedly greater than those of pure BiOBr (6%) and CDC (16%). Likewise, BiOI/CDC and BiOCl/CDC also have decent photocatalytic Cr(VI) reduction capacities (89% for BiOI/CDC and 69% for BiOCl/CDC) under visible light in comparison with pristine BiOI (13%) and BiOCl (1.5%). This work furnishes a novel and facile approach to tune photocatalyst morphologies and sheds light on the great potential of biomass-derived carbon, which may enlighten the judicious design of photocatalysts with high efficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Graphite carbon modified CuFe 2 O 4 (C/CFO) composites were synthesized. • C/CFO, H 2 O 2 and light formed a novel photo-Fenton degradation system. • The synergistic system exhibited high degradation efficiency of tetracycline. • Fe and Cu as electron-poor reaction centers to promote valence cycling of metals. • Oxygen vacancies as electron-rich reaction centers to decompose H 2 O 2. Controlling high recombination of photogenerated carriers and optimizing low cycling of metal valence states are the two key control steps in enhancing photo-Fenton oxidation. To achieve multiscale synergy of photo-Fenton degradation, graphite carbon-modified copper ferrite composites (C/CFO) with poor/rich dual electron reaction centers were synthesized through direct carbonization of Fe/Cu bimetallic organic frameworks. A novel photo-Fenton catalytic system was constructed by irradiating the Fenton reaction with visible light. The photo-Fenton degradation efficiency of C/CFO for tetracycline (100 mg‧L−1) was 93.69% ± 0.02%, and the degradation rate constant was 4.84 times higher than that of the control. Optimized preparation and catalytic conditions, ensured good cyclic stability and broad applicability of C/CFO. This excellent stability performance improvement can be attributed to the following main factors: (1) The introduction of graphite carbon not only increases the specific surface area of C/CFO, but also acts as a bridge between the dual electron reaction centers, facilitating the transfer of photogenerated electrons. (2) On the one hand, the electron-poor reaction centers Fe and Cu capture photogenerated electrons, accelerate the Fenton reaction, and realize the valence cycling of Fe and Cu. On the other hand, the electron-rich reaction centers (oxygen vacancies) act as active sites for H 2 O 2 adsorption, which greatly accelerate the decomposition of H 2 O 2. Overall, the synergy of dual electron reaction centers effectively promoted photo-Fenton oxidation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Semiconductor/redox-based dual light-induced color switching systems (LCSs) with a visible light response at different wavelengths are highly sought after for efficient redox reactions. In this work, Sn2+ self-doped SnO 2 has been designed as nanophotocatalysts for preparing visible light-responsive inks/fabrics with single/multi-color abilities. The self-doping of SnO 2 nanoparticles results in the formation of oxygen vacancies due to charge compensation effects leading to electron-driven photoreduction and photooxidation of LSC inks. By mixing SnO 2-x nanoparticles dispersions with specific redox-sensitive dyes can lead to the creation of well-designed sets of visible light-responsive semiconductor-driven LCS systems with both single-color (RGB) and multi-color (violet and green) changes. The exposure of LCS inks to green (550 nm) light culminates in the rapid photoreduction of the inks to decolorized state, while red (660 nm) light initiates the photooxidation in air. The combination of the LCS inks with –OH-rich polymers can be coated on the hydrophobic surface of the layered fabric to produce photo-responsive fabrics with single/multi-color response. The interaction of green light with the semiconductor-driven LCS systems allows the remote photo-printing of different images/letters on the LCS fabrics. Spontaneous erasure can be achieved by red light with high stability and repeatability (>35 cycles). The research in this paper provides new perspectives and insights for the development of new color-changing materials with potential applications as light-activated sensors and display units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rapid development of tourism, the concentration of visitor flows poses significant challenges for public safety management, especially in low-light and highly occluded environments, where existing pedestrian detection technologies often struggle to achieve satisfactory accuracy. Although infrared images perform well under low-light conditions, they lack color and detail, making them susceptible to background noise interference, particularly in complex outdoor environments where the similarity between heat sources and pedestrian features further reduces detection accuracy. To address these issues, this paper proposes the FusionU10 model, which combines information from both infrared and visible light images. The model first incorporates an Attention Gate mechanism (AGUNet) into an improved UNet architecture to focus on key features and generate pseudo-color images, followed by pedestrian detection using YOLOv10. During the prediction phase, the model optimizes the loss function with Complete Intersection over Union (CIoU), objectness loss (obj loss), and classification loss (cls loss), thereby enhancing the performance of the detection network and improving the quality and feature extraction capabilities of the pseudo-color images through a feedback mechanism. Experimental results demonstrate that FusionU10 significantly improves detection accuracy and robustness in complex scenes on the FLIR, M3FD, and LLVIP datasets, showing great potential for application in challenging environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Recent findings show that visible light, particularly blue light, stimulates melanogenesis in human skin, though the underlying mechanisms remain debated. This study aimed to determine the cell damage threshold of non-ionizing blue light on keratinocytes while preserving their ability to stimulate melanogenesis. Methods: Human keratinocytes (N = 3) and melanocytes (N = 3) were isolated from skin samples of varying Fitzpatrick skin phototypes and irradiated with blue light (λpeak = 457 nm) and UVA light (λpeak = 385 nm). Cellular metabolic activity was assessed using the AlamarBlue HS assay, α-Melanocyte-Stimulating Hormone (α-MSH) production by keratinocytes was quantified using ELISA, and Western blotting was used to assess pro-melanogenic factor expression in melanocytes. Results: High blue light intensity (50 mW/cm2, 50 J/cm2) and UVA light (15 mW/cm2, 20 J/cm2) significantly reduced cellular metabolic activity, with a 0.86 ± 0.055 and 0.60 ± 0.031 (mean ± SD) fold decrease compared to their respective sham by day 7. In contrast, moderate blue light intensities (5–15 mW/cm2, 10–20 J/cm2) preserved cellular metabolic activity while stimulating α-MSH production, with an optimal balance achieved at 10 mW/cm2, 15 J/cm2 (1.14 ± 0.046 fold increase relative to sham on day 7). Co-culture experiments confirmed that irradiated keratinocytes enhanced melanogenesis in melanocytes via paracrine signaling, increasing the expression of Tyrosinase and Dopachrome Tautomerase (DCT). Direct blue light irradiation on melanocytes also increased pigmentation without significant cellular damage. Discussion: Moderate-intensity blue light at 10 mW/cm2, 15 J/cm2 effectively stimulates melanogenesis while maintaining cellular metabolic activity in both keratinocytes and melanocytes, offering a promising, safe approach for blue light therapies targeting pigmentation disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A metamaterial absorber capable of swiftly altering its electromagnetic response in the microwave range offers adaptability to changing environments, such as tunable stealth capabilities. Inspired by the chameleon's ability to change color through the structural transformation of photonic lattice crystals, which shift the bandgaps of reflection and transmission of visible light, we designed a crisscross structure that transforms from an expanded to a collapsed form. This transformation enables a switch between broadband absorption and peak transmission in the microwave range (4 to 18 gigahertz). The structure, optimized through data-driven design, is mechanically actuated by the rotation of interlinked trusses. This mechanism changes the entire array's response, allowing it to remain undetected by an external radar or to transmit an internal radar signal to a near-field receiver when needed. The mechanical actuation and the shifting electromagnetic response of the arrayed structure are demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heterojunction formation between BiVO4 nanomaterials and benchmark semiconductor photocatalysts has been keenly pursued as a promising approach to improve charge transport and charge separation via interfacial electron transfer for the photoelectrocatalytic degradation of recalcitrant pharmaceutical pollutants. In this work, a heterostructured TiO2/Mo-BiVO4 bilayer photoanode was fabricated by the deposition of a mesoporous TiO2 overlayer using the benchmark P25 titania catalyst on top of Mo-doped BiVO4 inverse opal films as the supporting layer, which intrinsically absorbs visible light below 490 nm, while offering improved charge transport. A porous P25/Mo-BiVO4 bilayer structure was produced from the densification of the inverse opal underlayer after post-thermal annealing, which was evaluated on photocurrent generation in aqueous electrolyte and the photoelectrocatalytic degradation of the refractory anti-inflammatory drug ibuprofen under back-side illumination by visible and UV–Vis light. Significantly enhanced photoelectrochemical performance on both photocurrent density and pharmaceutical degradation was achieved for the bilayer structure with respect to the additive effect of the constituent layers, which was related to the improved light harvesting arising from the backscattering by the mesoporous TiO2 layer in combination with the favorable charge transfer at the TiO2/Mo-BiVO4 interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing demand for advanced transparent and flexible display technologies has led to significant research in thin-film transistors (TFTs) with high mobility, transparency, and mechanical robustness. In this study, we fabricated all-transparent TFTs (AT-TFTs) utilizing amorphous indium-zinc-tin-oxide (a-IZTO) as a dual-functional material for both the channel layer and transparent conductive electrodes (TCEs). The a-IZTO was deposited using radio-frequency magnetron sputtering, with its composition adjusted for both channel and electrode functionality. XRD analysis confirmed the amorphous nature of the a-IZTO layers, ensuring structural stability post-thermal annealing. The a-IZTO TCEs demonstrated high optical transparency (89.57% in the visible range) and excellent flexibility, maintaining a low sheet resistance with minimal degradation even after 100,000 bending cycles. The fabricated AT-TFTs exhibit superior field-effect mobility (30.12 cm2/V·s), an on/off current ratio exceeding 108, and a subthreshold swing of 0.36 V/dec. The AT-TFT device demonstrated a minimum transmittance of 75.46% in the visible light range, confirming its suitability for next-generation flexible and transparent displays. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bi3+ ion presents strong UV excitation up to ∼430 nm and is almost not excitable by visible light, which makes it valuable in current lighting technologies. Morphologically uniform Sc 1- x VO 4 : x Bi3+ (x = 0–0.03, 0.005 interval) and RE 0.99 VO 4 :0.01Bi3+ (RE = Sc, Lu, Y, Gd, Lu 0.5 Sc 0.5 , Y 0.5 Lu 0.5 , Gd 0.5 Y 0.5) micro/nanocrystals were successfully prepared in this work by hydrothermal reaction under 180 °C and pH = 8, without using any chelate or surfactant. The solid-solution vanadates were formed as microrods for Sc and nanocrystals for the other RE owing to different reaction pathways. The optimal Bi3+ content for luminescence is 1 at% (x = 0.01) and concentration quenching was analyzed to occur via electric dipole-dipole interaction. The peak wavelength of the excitation/emission band was found to almost linearly increase, accompanied by band broadening, with decreasing cell volume for the series of REVO 4 :0.01Bi3+, which was rationalized by considering the energy of metal-to-metal charge transfer (MMCT) and the character of the chemical bond (nephelauxetic effect). Notably, the REVO 4 :0.01Bi3+ phosphors showed broadband luminescence (FWHM >165 nm) covering almost the entire visible light region in each case, and the center wavelength of emission can be widely and finely tuned from ∼557 to 639 nm by decreasing the size of RE3+ on demand. Such luminescence performance may allow the micro/nanocrystals to find valuable application in UV-excited white LED lighting and others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, Fe-doped TiO 2 nanofilm was fabricated using a solvothermal method and subsequently applied to the substrate via an electrophoretic deposition (EPD) technique without requiring a binding agent. The aim of this research is to enhance the sonophotocatalytic performance of TiO 2 by integrating iron impurities into the catalyst structure, thereby addressing the limitation of the catalyst's inactivity under visible light and tackling the issue of catalyst separation for reuse. This method guarantees that the nanofilm is deposited uniformly and under regulated conditions on the substrate. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and UV–Vis techniques were employed to characterize the synthesized nanofilms. The findings indicate that the resulting nanofilms were responsive to visible light and exhibited high efficiency in the degradation of amoxicillin (AMX). The sonophotocatalytic process eliminated approximately 90 % of the amoxicillin, while ultrasound alone could degrade 17 % and visible light alone could degrade about 39 %. It was calculated and noted that the combination of ultrasonic and visible light had a synergistic effect of roughly 70.7 %. The most notable discovery was that the nanofilm could degrade 83 % of AMX after four applications, demonstrating its reusability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ZnO and TiO 2 show promise for the remediation of phenol-containing wastewater, but their wide band gaps restrict their industrial-scale application under visible light. However, harnessing visible light in dye-sensitizing systems could significantly enhance their efficacy for industrial purposes. Considering the state-of-the-art, this research represents a pioneering report to explore the development of dye-sensitized photocatalysts using Sudan Red 7B (SR) dye. For this purpose, a new surfactant-capping route was applied to synthesize spherical TiO 2 and ZnO nanoparticles. The prepared materials were then impregnated with (SR) dye to produce the unprecedented visible light active dye-sensitized TiO 2 (TiO 2 /SR) with spherical morphology, and sheet form dye-sensitized ZnO (ZnO/SR) photocatalysts. Based on the cyclic voltammetry and UV–Vis results, the LUMO and HOMO energy levels of SR dye were calculated to be −0.8 V and +3.15 V (versus NHE), respectively, providing an adequate thermodynamic driving force for the electron injection processes from dye to conduction bands of TiO 2 and ZnO, thus successfully degrading pollutants via the dye-sensitized photocatalytic route. Phenol photodegradation experiments under visible light were conducted using these photocatalysts, applying a diversity of pH and catalyst loading conditions. The results showed that the visible light photocatalytic experiments using TiO 2 /SR and ZnO/SR had significantly higher performance in degrading phenol, with an output that was almost 5 and 3 times better, respectively, compared to their pure photocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenyl hydrazine has attracted attention in photoredox catalytic synthetic strategies for the formation of carbon-carbon (C-C) bond and Carbon-Heteroatom (C-N, C = N, C-P, C-S, S-N) bonds, because of low cost and ease of availability make it a promising alternative method for typical transition metal complex-based photocatalyzed synthesis. In this review, we have focused on the recent radical coupling -reactions of phenyl hydrazine via photochemical strategies to form carbon–carbon and carbon–heteroatom (N, P, S) bonds along with mechanism involved in their reaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A visible-light mediated one-pot synthesis of N -aryl γ-lactams is developed following a cascade radical addition/cyclization sequence. This transition metal-free approach proceeds efficiently at room temperature, employing an organic dye as the photocatalyst. Inexpensive N -arylglycines and acrylic acid derivatives were used as the starting materials and a vast array of diversely substituted N -aryl γ-lactams were synthesized in moderate to excellent yields. Detailed mechanistic experiments and comprehensive photophysical studies elucidated a plausible reaction mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The S=O bond formed via hydrothermal method tightly binds oxygen-rich vacancy WO 3 with N -doped Zn 0.6 Cd 0.4 S. • Oxygen vacancies introduced into WO 3 serve as bridging sites, facilitating a closer interaction with N -doped Zn 0.6 Cd 0.4 S. • An efficient Z-scheme charge transfer mechanism was formed in the composites. • An excellent hydrogen evolution activity of 21.98 mmol·g−1 was obtained under visible light irradiation. Photocatalytic water splitting technology for H 2 production represents a promising and sustainable approach to clean energy generation. In this study, a high concentration of oxygen vacancies was introduced into tungsten trioxide (WO 3) to create a vacancy-rich layer. This modified WO 3 (WO 3-x) was then combined with N -doped Zn 0.6 Cd 0.4 S through a hydrothermal synthesis, resulting in the formation of a Z-scheme heterojunction composite aimed at enhancing photocatalytic performance. Under visible light, the H 2 production activity of the composite reached an impressive 8.52 mmol·g−1 without adding co-catalyst Pt. This corresponds to enhancements of 7.82 and 4.39 times the production yield of pure ZCS and ZCSN, respectively. However, the hydrogen production increased to 21.98 mmol·g−1 when Pt was added as a co-catalyst. Furthermore, an array of characterizations were employed to elucidate the presence of oxygen vacancies and the establishment of the Z-scheme heterojunction. This structural enhancement significantly facilitates the utilization of photo-generated electrons while effectively preventing photo-corrosion of ZCSN, thus improving material stability. Our study provides a new scheme for the incorporation of oxygen-rich vacancy and the construction of Z-scheme heterojunction, demonstrating a synergistic effect that greatly advances photocatalytic performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ubiquitous nitrate (NO3−) in groundwater sources is considered a hazard compound for human health. Photo-catalytic reduction by Ag-TiO2/formic acid/visible light represents an emerging method for NO3− removal without secondary pollution. In this contribution, the removal of NO3− by photo-catalytic reduction and the selectivity of N2 were systematically investigated under varied conditions, including concentrations of Ag-TiO2, NO3−, and formic acid (HCOOH). The removal efficiency of NO3− reached 84.47%, 82.68% of which was converted to N2 under the optimal conditions: NO3− at 50 mg-N/L, Ag-TiO2 at 1.0 g/L, HCOOH at 20.05 mmol/L, and reaction time at 120 min. The removal of NO3− was enhanced mainly by CO2− rather than by photo-generated electrons or HCOO−. The results of this study indicated that the production of ·CO2− by Ag-TiO2 and HCOOH under visible light catalysis can achieve efficient NO3− removal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]