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2025, Volume 10,  Issue 9

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Oriented crystallization of metal electrodeposition in aqueous zinc batteries
Lingxiao Ren, Yang Dong, Dalong Zhong, Zhijiang Su, Aoxuan Wang, Chengxin Peng, Jiayan Luo
2025, 10(9): 1819-1827. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.07.010
Abstract(19) HTML PDF
Abstract:
Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) are attractive for large-scale energy storage due to their safety and low cost, but practical use is limited by dendrite growth, hydrogen evolution, and passivation. Traditional solutions often introduce additional complexity without addressing the root cause: unstable zinc deposition. Recent advancements now focus on controlling zinc crystallographic orientation to fundamentally suppress inhomogeneous nucleation and growth. The (002) basal plane supports smooth, reversible growth and can be promoted via heteroepitaxy or homoepitaxy, enabling long cycle life even at high rates. However, emerging studies show that Zn(100) and Zn(101) orientations may offer comparable benefits through faster kinetics and reduced parasitic reactions. Scalable, non-epitaxial methods, such as electrolyte tuning and pressure control also show promise. Despite these advances, balancing thermodynamic stability with kinetic performance remains a major challenge. Future research should integrate orientation control with strategies against corrosion and calendar aging to enable practical, high-performance AZIBs.
Review articles
Recent progress in hydrophobic pervaporation membranes for phenol recovery
Chao Sang, Chang Liu, Yunpan Ying, Lu Lu, Chenlin Zhang, Jan Baeyens, Zhihao Si, Xinmiao Zhang, Peiyong Qin
2025, 10(9): 1828-1837. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.03.006
Abstract(25) HTML PDF
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Phenol is extensively utilized in various industries involving paints, rubber, textiles, explosives, plastics, etc. Compared to the conventional distillation or extraction technologies, pervaporation (PV) membrane process can be operated at a low temperature and has a low energy consumption as well as a high separation efficiency for phenol recovery. Thus, to meet the high demand for phenol recovery, the application of PV has been encouraged, and reached a new level. The PV process is governed by the properties of the membrane materials that significantly influence the energy costs associated with the separation unit, and the membrane types include polymer membranes, inorganic membranes, and mixed matrix membranes. Although recent literatures show that PV membranes have been continuously updated, no review has reported the latest development about it. In this work, the material types, separation properties and preparation methods of hydrophobic PV membranes for phenol recovery are summarized. Furthermore, the key preparation methods and application challenges associated with membranes are summarized, along with an overview of the opportunities and challenges posed by hydrophobic PV membranes for phenol recovery.
Heteroatom-functionalized carbon nanoarchitectonics: Unlocking the doping effects for supercapacitor electrode design
Pragati A. Shinde, Lok Kumar Shrestha, Katsuhiko Ariga
2025, 10(9): 1838-1862. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.02.007
Abstract(53) HTML PDF
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This review focuses on the significant impact of heteroatom doping in enhancing the electronic properties and electrochemical performance of carbon materials for supercapacitors (SCs). Incorporating heteroatoms such as nitrogen, sulfur, phosphorus, fluorine, and boron modifies the carbon structure, creates defects and increases active sites, which improves electronic conductivity, ion accessibility, and surface wettability and reduces ion diffusion barriers. Additionally, certain heteroatoms can participate in electrochemical reactions, further enhancing SC performance. Although research in this area is still emerging, a deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind single and multi-doping systems is essential for developing next-generation materials. Future strategies for improving heteroatom-doped carbon materials include increasing heteroatom content to enhance specific capacitance, selecting suitable heteroatoms to expand the potential window and improve energy density, utilizing advanced in situ characterization techniques, and exploring the use of these materials in cost-effective SCs. The potential of heteroatom-doped carbon materials for SCs is promising, with their ability to improve energy density, power density, and cycling stability, making them competitive with other energy storage technologies. These advancements will be key to broadening their practical applications, including electric vehicles, portable electronics, and grid energy storage, and will contribute to more efficient, long-lasting, and environmentally friendly energy storage solutions.
Recent progress on the development of non-fluorinated proton exchange membrane-A review
Peng Song, Yi Zhang, Xue Zhang, Jiaye Liu, Liang Wu, Adrian C. Fisher, Quan-Fu An
2025, 10(9): 1863-1880. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.03.003
Abstract(14) HTML PDF
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Proton exchange membranes (PEMs) are widely employed in energy conversion and storage devices including fuel cells (FCs), redox flow batteries (RFBs) and PEM water electrolysis (PEMWE). As one of the main components of these devices, a high-performance PEM is always desirable considering the cost challenges from both energy utilization efficiency and production cost. From this century, governments of countries worldwide have introduced PFAS (per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances) restriction related policies, which facilitate the extensive research on non-fluorinated PEMs. Besides, non-fluorinated PEMs become hot topics of all kinds of PEMs due to the advantages including excellent conductivity, high mechanical property, reduced swelling, low cost and reduced ion permeation of electrochemically active species. In this review, various types of non-fluorinated PEMs including main-chain-type hydrocarbon membranes, microphase separation membranes and membranes with rigid-twisted structure are comprehensively summarized. The basic properties of different types of non-fluorinated PEMs including water uptake, swelling ratio, oxidative stability, tensile strength and conductivity are compared and the corresponding application performance in FCs, RFBs and PEMWE are discussed. The state-of-the-art of the structural design in both monomers and polymers is reviewed for the construction of fast ion transport channels and high resistance of free radical attacks. Also, future challenges and possibilities for the development of non-fluorinated PEMs are comprehensively forecasted.
Research papers
The crucial role of intrinsic properties in determining the biological effects of CeO2 nanocrystals
Min Sun, Wanqin Dai, Yuhui Ma, Mengyao Liu, Xiao He, Zhuda Song, Yun Wang, Jiaqi Shen, Fang Yang, Zhiyong Zhang
2025, 10(9): 1881-1891. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.03.001
Abstract(10) HTML PDF
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Nano ceria (nano-CeO2) has been widely applied in various fields of industry and daily life, however, knowledge regarding the biological effects of nano-CeO2 with different intrinsic physicochemical properties remains limited. In this study, we investigated the impact of nano-CeO2 with different properties on the growth of a typical environmental species (romaine lettuce, Lactuca sativa L.) by exposing the plant to four types of CeO2 (rod-like nano-CeO2 (RNC), cubic nano-CeO2 (CNC), spherical nano-CeO2 (SNC) and commercial irregular CeO2 (CIC)) during the germination stage. The results indicated that different types of CeO2 exhibited varying inhibitory effects on plant growth. RNC and SNC significantly inhibited the elongation of roots and shoots, while CNC and CIC did not have a significant impact. We further examined the distribution and biotransformation of the four CeO2 in plant tissues using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and synchrotron X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES). Specifically, the positively charged RNC and SNC were more readily adsorbed onto the root surface, and needle-like nanoclusters were deposited in the intercellular space inside the roots. The absolute content of Ce(III) in the roots romaine lettuce was in the order of RNC > SNC >> CNC >> CIC. The size and shape (i.e., exposed crystal surface) of the materials affected their reactivity and dissolution ratios, and zeta potentials affected their bioavailability, both of which influenced the overall contents of Ce3+ ions in plant tissues. Thus, these characteristics together led to different biological effects. These findings highlight the importance of considering the intrinsic properties of nano-CeO2 when assessing their environmental and biological effects.
Freestanding and flexible CNT/Si/metal electrodes for high energy density lithium-ion batteries with enhanced electrochemical performance
Yanbin Wei, Yukang Zhu, Li Wang, Xiangming He
2025, 10(9): 1892-1900. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.04.001
Abstract(94) HTML PDF
Abstract:
In pursuit of meeting the demands for the next generation of high energy density and flexible electronic products, there is a growing interest in flexible energy storage devices. Silicon (Si) stands out as a promising electrode material due to its high theoretical specific capacity (∼3579 mA h g−1), low lithiation potential (∼0.40 V), and abundance in nature. We have successfully developed freestanding and flexible CNT/Si/low-melting-point metal (LM) electrodes, which obviate the need for conductive additives, adhesives, and thereby increase the energy density of the device. As an anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), the CNT/Si/LM electrode demonstrates remarkable cycling stability and rate performance, achieving a reversible capacity of 1871.8 mA h g−1 after 100 cycles at a current density of 0.2 A g−1. In-situ XRD and in-situ thickness analysis are employed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms during the lithiation/delithiation. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations further substantiate the mechanism by which LM enhances the electrochemical performance of Si, focusing on the aspects of stress mitigation and reduction of the diffusion energy barrier. This research introduces a novel approach to flexible electrode design by integrating CNT films, LM, and Si, thereby charting a path forward for the development of next-generation flexible LIBs.
Techno-economic assessment of plasma-driven air oxidation coupled with electroreduction synthesis of ammonia
Lei Xiao, Shiyong Mou, Xiaoyu Lin, Keying Wu, Siyuan Liu, Weidong Dai, Weiping Yang, Chiyao Tang, Chang Long, Fan Dong
2025, 10(9): 1901-1910. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.03.009
Abstract(123) HTML PDF
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Recently, the plasma-driven air oxidation coupled with electrocatalytic NOx reduction reaction (pAO-eNOxRR) technology for sustained NH3 synthesis displays the promise in tackling the high energy-consumption and carbon-emission associated with the Haber-Bosch process. Here, a technical and economic assessment of pAO-eNOxRR technology is comprehensively undertaken to determine its feasibility as a potential substitute for the Haber-Bosch process. The technical assessment suggests that, in terms of both environmental impact and energy efficiency, N2-NO-NH3 and N2-NO2−-NH3 are presently the most effective pathways. The deep analysis of the current state-of-the-art technological performance indicates that the pAO-eNOxRR technology is competitive with commercial processes in achieving large-scale NH3 synthesis. However, lower energy efficiency of pAO-eNOxRR technology leads to high electricity costs that surpass the current market price of NH3. Subsequently, we conducted a comprehensive analysis which reveals that, for the economic viability of NH3 synthesis, an energy efficiency in the range of 33.8–38.6% must be attained. The expenses associated with plasma equipment, electrolyzer, catalysts, and NH3 distillation also contribute significantly to the economic burden. The further development of pAO-eNOxRR technology should be centered around advancements in plasma catalysts, electrocatalysts, reactors, as well as the exploration for energy-efficient cathode-anode synergistic catalytic systems.
Construction of an adsorption-diffusion model reveals the conversion-deposition process of polysulfides
Wenhao Yang, Dan You, Zhicong Ni, Yongshun Liang, Yingjie Zhang, Yunxiao Wang, Qingsong Liu, Xue Li, Yiyong Zhang, Jiajun Wang
2025, 10(9): 1911-1921. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.04.004
Abstract(33) HTML PDF
Abstract:
Despite progress in suppressing polysulfide shuttling, this challenge persists in lithium-sulfur battery commercialization. While existing strategies emphasize polysulfide adsorption and catalytic conversion, the critical role of diffusion kinetics in conversion–deposition processes remains underexplored. We design an MXene-based array architecture integrating 2D structural advantages and strong polysulfide affinity to regulate diffusion pathways. Combined experimental and multiscale computational studies reveal diffusion-mediated conversion-deposition dynamics. The sodium alginate-constructed MXene array enables three synergistic mechanisms: (1) Enhanced ion/electron delocalization reduces diffusion barriers, (2) Continuous ion transport channels facilitate charge transfer, and (3) Exposed polar surfaces promote polysulfide aggregation/conversion. Synchrotron X-ray tomography coupled with comprehensive electrochemical analyses reveals distinct mechanistic differences between conversion and deposition processes arising from diffusion heterogeneity. In situ characterization techniques combined with DFT simulation calculations demonstrate that diffusion kinetics exerts differential regulatory effects on these coupled electrochemical processes, exhibiting particular sensitivity toward the deposition mechanism. This work provides fundamental insights that reshape our understanding of diffusion-mediated phase transformation in complex multi-step electrochemical systems, offering new perspectives for advanced electrode architecture design in next-generation energy storage technologies.
The in-situ growth of Cu2O–CuO on Cu foam coated with carbon derived from polydopamine as the flexible high-voltage cathode for thermal batteries
Xin-ya Bu, Yan-li Zhu, Ting Quan, Bin-chao Shi, Shu Zhang, Xiao-yu Wei, Qi Xia
2025, 10(9): 1922-1933. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.04.003
Abstract(96) HTML PDF
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Thermal batteries are a type of thermally activated reserve battery, where the cathode material significantly influences the operating voltage and specific capacity. In this work, Cu2O–CuO nanowires are prepared by in-situ thermal oxidation method onto Cu foam, which are further coated with a carbon layer derived from polydopamine (PDA). The morphology of the nanowires has been examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The material shows a kind of core–shell structure, with CuO as the shell and Cu2O as the core. To further explore the interaction between the material and lithium-ion (Li+), the Li+ adsorption energies of CuO and Cu2O were calculated, revealing a stronger affinity of Li+ for CuO. The unique core–shell nanowire structure of Cu2O–CuO can provide a good Li+ adsorption with the outer layer CuO and excellent structural stability with the inner layer Cu2O. When applied in thermal batteries, Cu2O–CuO–C nanowires exhibit specific capacity and specific energy of 326 mAh g−1 and 697 Wh kg−1 at a cut-off voltage of 1.5 V both of which are higher than those of Cu2O–CuO (238 mAh g−1 and 445 Wh kg−1). The discharge process includes the insertion of lithium ions and subsequent reduction reactions, ultimately resulting in the formation of lithium oxide and copper.
N2 treatment triggered self-reorganization into fully exposed platinum cluster catalysts for efficient low-temperature CO oxidation
Yang Zou, Xue Li, Yongqi Zhao, Xiaolong Liu, Tingyu Zhu
2025, 10(9): 1934-1947. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.04.005
Abstract(146) HTML PDF
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The development of efficient low-load platinum catalysts for CO oxidation is critical for large-scale industrial applications and environmental protection. In this study, a strategy of N2 treatment triggered the self-reforming into fully exposed Pt cluster catalysts was proposed. By adjusting the coordination environment of Pt species on the defect support through N2 treatment, the CO catalytic activity was significantly enhanced, achieving complete CO oxidation at 130 °C with a Pt loading of only 0.1 wt.%. The turnover frequency of N2-treated PtFEC/Ti-D at 160 °C was 18.3 times that of untreated PtSA/Ti-D. Comprehensive characterization results indicated that the N2 treatment of the Pt single-atom defect catalyst facilitated the reconfiguration and evolution of the defect structure, leading to the aggregation of Pt single atoms into fully exposed Pt clusters. Notably, these fully exposed Pt clusters exhibited a reduced coordination of Pt–O in the first coordination shell compared to single atoms, which resulted in the formation of Pt–Pt metal coordination. This unique coordination structure enhanced the adsorption and activation of CO and O2 on the catalyst, thereby resulting in exceptionally low-temperature CO oxidation activity. This work demonstrates a promising strategy for the design, synthesis, and industrial application of efficient low-platinum load catalysts.
Atomically dispersed Co sites on BiOCl nanosheets for efficient CO2 photoreduction
Ting Peng, Yiduo Wang, Ke Wang, Kaini Zhang, Yiqing Wang, Yufei Xu, Qingqing Guan, Guofu Wang, Wenjie Zhang, Binglan Wu, Shaohua Shen
2025, 10(9): 1948-1955. doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.04.006
Abstract(126) HTML PDF
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Efficient CO2 photoreduction to produce fuel remains a great challenge, due to the fast recombination of photogenerated charge carriers and the lack of effective reactive sites in the developed photocatalysts. Herein, single Co atoms (CoSA) were highly dispersed on hydrothermally synthesized BiOCl nanosheets (BOC) by a facile two-step electrostatic self-assembly and pyrolysis method. The obtained CoSA-BOC could be performed for efficient CO2 photoreduction to stoichiometrically produce CO and O2 at the ratio of 2:1, with the CO evolution rate reaching 45.93 μmol g−1 h−1, ∼4 times that of the pristine BOC. This distinctly improved photocatalytic performance for CoSA-BOC should benefit from the introduction of atomically dispersed Co–O4 coordination structures, which could accelerate the migration of photogenerated charge carriers to surface by creating an impurity energy level in the forbidden band, and act as the reactive sites to deliver the photogenerated electrons to activate CO2 molecules for CO production. This work provides a facile and reliable strategy to highly disperse single atoms on low-dimensional semiconductors for efficient CO2 photoreduction to selectively produce CO.

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