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2025 Vol. 10, No. 7

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Review articles
Cyclic ethers-based solid electrolyte derived from in situ ring-opening polymerization strategy
Wubin Du, Yong Wu, Hao Cheng, Ran Bu, Kang Shen, Yuanzhong Tan, Zhijun Wu, Hongge Pan, Yifan Wang, Yingying Lu
2025, 10(7): 1359-1376. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2024.09.005
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Although solid-state polymer electrolytes (SPEs) are expected to solve the safety hazards and limited energy density in the energy storage systems, they still encounter an inferior electrode/electrolyte interface when prepared in an ex situ manner. Recently, in situ polymerization of SPEs favor high interfacial infiltrability, improved interface contact, and reduced interface resistance, owing to the formation of a "super-conformal" interface between electrode and electrolyte. Especially, in situ strategies employing ring-opening polymerization (ROP) are emerging as dazzling stars, further enabling moderate polymerization conditions, controllable molecular structure, and reduced interfacial side reaction. As the main monomers that can be in situ polymerized via the ROP strategy, cyclic ethers have been used to construct the CE-SPEs with many merits, including good battery electrochemical performances and a simple assembly process. Here, as a systematic summarization of the existing reports, this review focuses on the polymerization mechanism of ROP, the design principles of CE-SPEs electrolytes, and the recent application of in situ CE-SPEs. In particular, this review thoroughly discusses the selection of different cyclic monomers, initiators and various modification approaches in in situ fabricating CE-SPEs. Ending with offering future challenges and perspectives, this review envisions shedding light on the profound understanding and scientific guidance for further development of high-performance in situ CE-SPEs.
Recent progress on photothermal nanomaterials: Design, mechanism, and applications
Xiao Yu, Shilin Fan, Bin Zhu, Soliman I. El-Hout, Jian Zhang, Chunlin Chen
2025, 10(7): 1377-1436. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2024.09.002
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Photothermal energy conversion represents a cornerstone process in the renewable energy technologies domain, enabling the capture of solar irradiance and its subsequent transformation into thermal energy. This mechanism is paramount across many applications, facilitating the exploitation of solar energy for different purposes. The photothermal conversion efficiency and applications are fundamentally contingent upon the characteristics and performance of the materials employed. Consequently, deploying high-caliber materials is essential for optimizing energy capture and utilization. Within this context, photothermal nanomaterials have emerged as pivotal components in various applications, ranging from catalysis and sterilization to medical therapy, desalination, and electric power generation via the photothermal conversion effect.
This review endeavors to encapsulate the current research landscape, delineating both the developmental trajectories and application horizons of photothermal conversion materials. It aims to furnish a detailed exposition of the mechanisms underlying photothermal conversion across various materials, shedding light on the principles guiding the design of photothermal nanomaterials. Furthermore, addressing the prevailing challenges and outlooks within the field elucidates potential avenues for future research and identifying priority areas. This review aspires to enrich the understanding of photothermal materials within the framework of energy conversion, offering novel insights and fostering a more profound comprehension of their role and potential in harnessing solar energy.
Recent progress in carbon-based composite materials for advanced sodium ion batteries: From storage mechanism to structural design to applications as flexible electrodes
Ao Song, Yunchao Li, Dingkun Yuan, Jie Wu, Hailin Gu, Guangxue Zhang, Angjian Wu, Jiangrong Xu
2025, 10(7): 1437-1460. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2024.09.007
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Sodium ion batteries (SIBs) are one of the most prospective energy storage devices recently. Carbon materials have been commonly used as anode materials for SIBs because of their wide sources and low price. However, pure carbon materials still have the disadvantage of low theoretical capacity. New design and preparation strategies for carbon-based composites can overcome the problems. Based on the analysis of Na+ storage mechanism of carbon-based composite materials, the factors influencing the performance of SIBs are discussed. Adjustment methods for improving the electrochemical performance of electrodes are evaluated in detail, including carbon skeleton design and composite material selection. Some advanced composite materials, i.e., carbon-conversion composite and carbon-MXene composite, are also being explored. New advances in flexible electrodes based on carbon-based composite on flexible SIBs is investigated. The existing issues and future issues of carbon-based composite materials are discussed.
Valorization of spent lithium-ion battery cathode materials for energy conversion reactions
Jin Zhang, Ding Chen, Jixiang Jiao, Weihao Zeng, Shichun Mu
2025, 10(7): 1461-1480. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2024.10.006
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With large-scale commercial applications of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), lots of spent LIBs will be produced and cause huge waste of resources and greatly increased environmental problems. Thus, recycling spent LIB materials is inevitable. Due to high added-value features, converting spent LIB cathode materials into catalysts exhibits broad application prospects. Inspired by this, we review the high-added-value reutilization of spent LIB materials toward catalysts of energy conversion. First, the failure mechanism of spent LIB cathode materials are discussed, and then the transformation and modification strategies are summarized and analyzed to improve the transformation efficiency of failed cathode materials and the catalytic performance of catalysts, respectively. Moreover, the electrochemical applications of failed cathode material derived catalysts are introduced, and the key problems and countermeasures are analyzed and proposed. Finally, the future development trend and prospect of high-added-value reutilization for spent LIB cathode materials toward catalysts are also given. This review will predictably advance the awareness of valorizing spent lithium-ion battery cathode materials for catalysis.
Oxidation mechanism and performance control of manganese-based catalysts in soot oxidation
Tingyi Zhao, Yuanjun Li, Chengchun Wu, Wen Cao, Jiahao Gong, Menglan Xiao, Zuguo Song, Zhihui Shao, Mingqin Zhao, Bing Cui
2025, 10(7): 1481-1502. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2024.12.004
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The extensive use of diesel engines has led to significant emissions of pollutants, especially soot particles, which pose serious risks to both the environment and human health. At present, developing catalysts with low-temperature activity, low cost, and high stability remains the core challenge in eliminating soot from diesel engine exhaust. This paper first reviews the mechanisms of soot catalytic oxidation. Based on these mechanisms, the current design directions for soot catalysts are summarized and discussed. On the one hand, the effects of modification methods such as doping, loading, and solid solution on the performance of manganese-based catalysts are reviewed from the perspective of intrinsic activity. On the other hand, the research progress on manganese-based catalysts with specific morphological structures for soot oxidation is explored. Following the identification of design strategies, the commonly used preparation methods to achieve these designs are also outlined. Finally, the paper highlights the challenges associated with manganese-based catalysts in soot catalysis and discusses future research and development directions.
Research papers
Fe-O-Bi efficient electron transfer channels and photo-Fenton synergy in S-scheme heterojunctions: Insights into interfacial interactions and ofloxacin degradation
Jiawei Liu, Jun Shi, Huiping Deng
2025, 10(7): 1503-1518. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2024.09.008
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Fenton method combined with light to accelerate the production of free radicals from H2O2 can achieve more efficient pollutant degradation. In this paper, a novel BiOI/FeWO4 S-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst was obtained by in situ synthesis, which can activate H2O2 and degrade the organic pollutant OFC (ofloxacin) under visible light. The S-scheme charge transfer mechanism was confirmed by XPS spectroscopy, in situ KPFM and theoretical calculation. The photogenerated electrons were transferred from FeWO4 to BiOI driven by the built-in electric field and band bending, which inhibited carrier recombination and facilitated the activation of H2O2. The BiFe-5/Vis/H2O2 system degraded OFC up to 96.4% in 60 min. This study provides new systematic insights into the activation of H2O2 by S-scheme heterojunctions, which is of great significance for the treatment of antibiotic wastewater.
Construction of imidazole-based ionic liquid modified MoO3-x for enhancing photocatalytic oxidation desulfurization in diesel
Suhang Xun, Chenchao Hu, Bohan Yang, Wei Jiang, Minqiang He, Wenshuai Zhu, Huaming Li
2025, 10(7): 1519-1530. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.02.005
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Development of clean desulfurization process that combines both efficient and environmentally friendly remains a significant challenge for diesel production. The photocatalytic oxidation desulfurization technology is regarded as a promising process depending on the superior electron transfer and visible light utilization of photocatalyst. Herein, the nonstoichiometry MoO3-x with outstanding photoresponse ability is prepared and modified by imidazole-based ionic liquid [C12mim]Cl to upgrade electronic structure. The interface H-bonding between MoO3-x and [C12mim]Cl regard as electronic transfer channel and the recombination of e--h+ pairs is effectively inhibited with the modification of [C12mim]Cl. Deep desulfurization rate of 96.6% can be reached within 60 min and the MoO3-x/[C12mim]Cl (MoC12) photocatalyst demonstrated outstanding cyclic stability within 7 cycles in an extraction coupled photocatalytic oxidation desulfurization (ECPODS) system. The study provides a new perspective on enhancing photocatalytic desulfurization through defect engineering and surface modification.
Highly efficient photoelectrocatalytic degradation for ciprofloxacin with a new polyoxometalate-based metal-organic hybrid/BiVO4 photoanode
Yuting Song, Tao Bo, Ji-Cheng Ma, Jian-Fang Ma
2025, 10(7): 1531-1542. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.01.007
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Efficient removal of antibiotics is of great significance for the sustainability of aquatic ecosystems. In this work, a new polyoxometalate-based metal-organic hybrid material [Ag3L0.5(HSiW12O40)]·2C2H5OH·2CH3CN ( Ag-L-SiW 12 ) was prepared by using Keggin-type polyoxometalate anion and thiacalix[4]arene-based ligand (L) via solvothermal method. Subsequently, a composite heterojunction Ag-L-SiW 12 @BiVO4 photoanode was fabricated by loading Ag-L-SiW 12 on the surface of BiVO4. The photoelectrocatalytic degradation performance of ciprofloxacin (CIP) was explored under the simulated solar radiation. Remarkably, the CIP degradation efficiency reached 93% within 240 min using the optimal Ag-L-SiW 12 @BiVO4 photoanode, which is approximately 2 and 23 times those of pristine BiVO4 and Ag-L-SiW 12 , respectively. Furthermore, density functional theory (DFT) calculations were conducted to elucidate the role of Ag-L-SiW 12 during the photoelectrocatalytic process. This work offers an example of the efficient composite photoelectrocatalysts for the treatment of antibiotic wastewater.
MOF membrane boosts electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction on perovskite oxides
Tan Zhang, Qi Wang, Yuhan Sun, Jinping Li, Guang Liu
2025, 10(7): 1543-1550. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.02.002
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The electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) under ambient conditions presents a promising approach for the eco-friendly and sustainable synthesis of ammonia, with a continuous emergence of potential electrocatalysts. However, the low solubility and limited diffusion of N2 significantly hinder the achievement of satisfactory performance. In this context, we report an effective strategy to enhance NRR activity by introducing a metal-organic framework (MOF) membrane, specifically MIL-53(Al), onto a perovskite oxide (LiNbO3), denoted as LN@MIL-X (X = 0.2, 0.4 and 0.6). The MIL-53(Al) membrane selectively recognizes and concentrates N2 at the catalyst interface while simultaneously repelling water molecules, thereby inhibiting the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). This ultrathin nanostructure significantly improves the NRR performance of LN@MIL-X compared to pristine LiNbO3. Notably, LN@MIL-0.4 exhibits a maximum NH3 yield of 45.25 μg h-1 mgcat.-1 with an impressive Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 86.41% at -0.45 V versus RHE in 0.1 mol L-1 Na2SO4. This work provides a universal strategy for the design and synthesis of perovskite oxide electrocatalysts, facilitating high-efficiency ammonia synthesis.
Carbon nitride quantum dots decorated with cyano groups for boosting photocatalytic hydrogen peroxide production
Ke Kong, Hong Zhong, Dejian Chen, Fushuai Zhang, Xiaoju Li, Ruihu Wang
2025, 10(7): 1551-1558. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.01.004
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The photocatalytic hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production by graphitic carbon nitride is a sustainable and environment-benign alternative approach of conventional anthraquinone autoxidation technology, but it is great challenges to promote two-electron O2 reduction and water oxidation. Herein, we present the well-dispersed graphitic carbon nitride quantum dots decorated with cyano groups (Na-CNQD and K-CNQD) by thermal polymerization of melamine in the presence of metal fluoride. The quantum confinement and edge effect have endowed the photocatalysts with rich active sites, wide light absorption range and the inhibited charge recombination. The cyano moieties function as O2 reduction centers to accept the photogenerated electrons and facilitate their rapid transfer to O2 molecules. This process enables the selective two-electron reduction of O2, leading to the production of H2O2. Concurrently, the valence band holes on the heptazine moiety oxidize water into H2O2. These synergistic effects promote photocatalytic H2O2 production from O2 and H2O without the need for additional photosensitizers, organic scavengers and co-catalysts. In contrast, pristine carbon nitride nanosheets remain inactive under the same conditions. This study offers new strategies for rational design of carbon-based materials for solar-to-chemical energy conversion.
In situ converting the native passivation layer into a fast ion transport interphase to boost the stability of zinc anodes
Zi-Long Xie, Yunhai Zhu, Jia-Yi Du, Dong-Yue Yang, Hao Chen, Zhi Wang, Gang Huang, Xin-Bo Zhang
2025, 10(7): 1559-1567. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.02.004
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Aqueous zinc batteries offer significant potential for large-scale energy storage, wearable devices, and medium-to low-speed transportation due to their safety, affordability, and environmental friendliness. However, the uneven zinc deposition at the anode side caused by localized reaction activity from the passivation layer presents challenges that significantly impact the battery's stability and lifespan. In this study, we have proposed an expandable and maneuverable gel sustained-release (GSR) treatment to polish the Zn metal, which in situ converts its native passivation layer into a composite interphase layer with nanocrystal zinc phosphate and flexible polyvinyl alcohol. Such a thin and uniform interface contributes to fast and homogeneous Zn ion transport and improved anti-corrosion ability, enabling uniform zinc deposition without dendrite growth and thereby improving the battery performance with high-rate ability and long cycle life. This GSR treatment method, characterized by its simplicity, low cost, and universality, facilitates the widespread application of aqueous zinc batteries.
Ambient temperature catalyzed air-oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural via ternary metal and oxygen vacancies
Yunlei Zhang, Yiran Liu, Qinghua Xia, Yao Chen, Lingzhao Kong, Xingchen Yan, Wen Guan, Jianming Pan
2025, 10(7): 1568-1582. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.02.003
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Catalytic oxidation of biomass-derived 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA, an alternative bioplastic monomer to petroleum-derived terephthalic acid), has been identified as an important biomass conversion reaction in bio-based polyester industry. However, it is still challenging to acquire a high FDCA yield from the selective oxidation of HMF at low temperatures. Herein, a ternary metal-based catalyst was prepared by loading AuPdPt noble metal nanoparticles on the oxygen-rich vacancy titanium dioxide layer deposited on natural clay mineral halloysite nanotubes (HNTs), and the catalytic activity was examined for air-oxidation of HMF to FDCA in water at ambient temperature (30 °C). By adjusting the Au/Pd/Pt ratio, a 93.6% FDCA yield was achieved with the optimal Au0.5Pd0.2Pt0.3/TiO2@HNTs catalyst, which revealed an impressive FDCA formation rate of 67.58 mmol g-1 h-1 and an excellent TOF value of 17.54 h-1 under normal air pressure at 30 °C, surpassing the performance of mono- and bimetallic-based catalysts. Theoretical calculation and catalytic performance study clarified the structure-activity relationship. It was found that the ternary metal and oxygen vacancies revealing synergistic enhancement of ambient temperature catalyzed HMF air-oxidation via electronic structure tuning and adsorption intensification. DFT and kinetics study demonstrated that the presence of ternary metal significantly improved the adsorption capacity of substrate and enhanced the rate-determining step of the key intermediate 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furanocarboxylic acid (HMFCA) oxidation when compared to mono- and bimetal. Additionally, the TiO2@HNTs support with high oxygen vacancy concentration facilitated the adsorption of oxygen, synergistically working with the ternary metal to activate and low the energy barriers for the generation of superoxide radical, thus enhancing the FDCA formation. This work offers a novel strategy for designing ternary metal-based catalysts for low-energy catalytic oxidation reactions.
Tailor of frustrated Lewis pairs in Ag/CeO2 for producing 4-aminophenol
Huaiquan Zhao, Hongye Bai, Zhenzhen Huang, Guanhua Wang, Hongliang Dai, Xuliang Pang, Hongping Li, Weiqiang Fan
2025, 10(7): 1583-1595. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.02.006
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Catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) pollutant to the high-value 4-aminophenol (4-AP) with a clean hydrogen donor holds significant importance yet great challenges owing to the difficult activation of nitro and H species. In this work, Ag tailoring Frustrated Lewis pairs (FLPs) of CeO2 (Ag/CeO2) were successfully fabricated for electrochemical reduction reaction of 4-NP (4-NP ERR). As a result, the bond of Ag with O atom changed the state of the Ce-O bond and electron density, where the tailored FLPs were the key factor for enhancing absorption and activation. The reaction rate of Ag/CeO2 reached up to 4.70 μmol·min-1 (Faraday efficiency: 99.5%), which was about four times of CeO2. Additionally, this study delved into the proton-coupled electron processes to further understand the mechanism of 4-NP ERR. Therefore, in this study, we have endeavored to investigate the role of tailored FLPs sites and utilize this structure-function relationship to achieve environmental-friendly chemical synthesis.

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