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Articles in press have been peer-reviewed and accepted, which are not yet assigned to volumes/issues, but are citable by Digital Object Identifier (DOI).
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Construction of Bi2Fe4O9/MXene Schottky heterojunction: synergistic charge transfer for efficient photocatalytic degradation of ciprofloxacin
Zizhen Wu, Zhao Wang, Jun Shi, Huiping Deng
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2026.02.002
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MXene has become an emerging two-dimensional layered material of significant interest in the field of photocatalysis. Introducing Ti3C2-MXene at the semiconductor interface has become a promising strategy for enhancing the photocatalytic performance through charge carrier separation. In this study, a Bi2Fe4O9/1%Ti3C2 (BFT-1) Schottky heterojunction photocatalyst was successfully synthesized to efficiently remove ciprofloxacin (CIP) from water. Under visible-light irradiation for 50 min, the degradation of CIP by BFT-1 reached 85.7% (k = 0.032 min−1), which was 1.6 times that of the pure Bi2Fe4O9 (BFO). The morphological characterization and photoelectrochemical analyses confirmed the successful synthesis of BFT-1. The Schottky heterojunction facilitated electron transfer and inhibited carrier recombination. Meanwhile, the BFT-1/Vis system demonstrated good adaptability to various environmental substrates in water. The BFT-1 photocatalyst also exhibited excellent stability and reusability over multiple cycles, along with minimal metal ion leaching. This research demonstrated the great potential of the BFT-1/Vis system as an efficient solution for the treatment of antibiotic-contaminated wastewater.
Unlocking Efficient Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Fatty Alcohol via Self-Promoted Hydrophobic Interfacial Microenvironment
Ruiqi Du, Shiyan Wang, Yuhan Sun, Zemao Chen, Kaizheng Zhang, Binhang Yan, Zheng Liu, Yi Cheng
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2026.02.001
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Electrocatalysis offers a promising solution for the oxidative valorization of fatty alcohols, showcasing reaction mildness and sustainability. However, the intrinsically low solubility of fatty alcohols in aqueous electrolyte presents severe mass transfer barriers, thus impeding the efficiency of electrocatalytic oxidation processes. In this study, we develop an electrolyte engineering strategy that avoids exogenous additives. By utilizing the amphiphilic fatty acid anions, we construct a “self-promoted” hydrophobic interfacial microenvironment. This design significantly enhances the oxidation rate of fatty alcohols on gold electrocatalysts while simultaneously ensuring high-purity products. Specifically, the addition of potassium octanoate (KC8) into 1 mol L-1 KOH results in a 3-4 fold increase in terms of current density and productivity for octanol oxidation, underscoring substantial practical potential. Mechanistic studies reveal that KC8 modifies the electrical double layer structure, effectively repelling interfacial water and disrupting the hydrogen bond network, thereby enhancing interfacial hydrophobicity. The hydrophobic microenvironment subsequently promotes the enrichment of octanol reactants at the interface, leading to improved adsorption coverage on the electrode. The “self-promoted” strategy established in this work represents a cost-effective method for interfacial microenvironment modulation, offering inspiration for the development of efficient organic electrocatalytic processes involving hydrophobic reactants.
Tailoring Charge Dynamics via Cu-Doped TiO2/g-C3N4 S-Scheme Composites for Solar Hydrogen Evolution
Chunxia Wang, Yanxin Sun, Zhuo Wang, Yifeng Zeng, Qin-Yi Li, Xinchen Kang, Guoyong Huang
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2026.01.008
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Copper (Cu) doping modifies the band structure of TiO2 by slightly narrowing the bandgap and shifting the Fermi level, while creating localized states that serve as temporary electron reservoirs to suppress carriers rapid recombination. On this basis, a ternary heterojunction Cu-TiO2/g-C3N4 (Cu-CT) was constructed by anchoring Cu-TiO2 onto g-C3N4 nanosheets. The synergistic interaction between Cu-doping and the S-scheme interfacial configuration generates an internal electric field that promotes vectorial carrier migration, enabling electrons in the conduction band of Cu-TiO2 and holes in the valence band of g-C3N4. This spatial separation preserves strong redox potentials and markedly suppresses recombination. Consequently, Cu-CT achieves a hydrogen evolution rate of 10.21 mmol g-1 h-1, more than twenty times higher than pristine TiO2. In-situ XPS, KPFM, and DFT analyses collectively validate the S-scheme charge-transfer pathway and highlight the synergistic role of Cu doping with heterojunction engineering, providing mechanistic insights to the rational design of advanced ternary photocatalysts for efficient solar-driven hydrogen production.
Grain-boundary-proximal hydroxyl defects in Pt-regulated inverse spinel high-entropy oxide enabling efficient CO2 photoreduction
Xuran Lei, Chunhong Qu, Yun wang, Lei Wang, Wenli Zhang, Min Zhang, Deping Wang, Liqiu Zhang, Chunmei Li, Hongjun Dong
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2026.01.006
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Achieving efficient photocatalytic performance for high-entropy oxides (HEOs) continues to pose significant challenge, primarily attributed to their intrinsically limited charge carrier mobility and sluggish surface reaction kinetics resulting from heterogeneous defect distributions. Herein, the new Pt-regulated inverse spinel HEOs with honeycomb-like architecture are developed employing a facile sol-gel technique. The doping of trace amounts of Pt in the octahedral B voids of the high-entropy (FeZnAlCoMn)3O4 can enables electronic structure optimization and regulates the grain-boundary-proximal hydroxyl defects, thereby improving CO2 adsorption/activation capabilities, charge transfer and separation efficiency, and surface reaction kinetics. As a result, the optimal high-entropy 1.6%Pt-(FeZnAlCoMn)3O4 achieves 3.41 times average CO evolution rate of (FeZnAlCoMn)3O4 and stable operations for 4 cycles in the photocatalytic CO2 reduction. This contribution provides novel insights into the targeted design and regulation of high-entropy oxides (HEOs) for efficient photocatalytic CO2 reduction, thereby establishing a new paradigm for grain boundary defect engineering that can be extended to other application fields.
Recent Progress of Surface/Interface Modification of Transition Metal Oxides for Enhancing Electrochemical Energy Storage and Conversion Activity
Zhiqiang Cui, Siqi Zhan, Rui Mei, Mengping Liu, Minglei Cao, Qin Wang, Yating Zhao, Rui Tong, Dongming Cai, Zhenghui Pan
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.013
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The electrochemical performance of transition metal oxides (TMOs) is significantly influenced by their surfaces and interfaces, which are pivotal in facilitating charge transfer, ion diffusion, and catalytic reactions. However, intrinsic limitations such as poor conductivity, insufficient active sites, and structural instability often hinder their efficiency. Surface/interface modification addresses these challenges by engineering the material at the atomic and nanoscale levels, thereby enhancing its functional performance. The rational design of transition metal oxide (TMO) surfaces and interfaces is pivotal in advancing electrochemical energy storage and conversion technologies, which involves tailoring the surface electronic structure, optimizing the surface topography, enhancing charge transfer rates, and incorporating vacancy defects. Surface and interface modification offers a plethora of active sites, thereby becoming indispensable in enhancing material properties. This review systematically summarizes the latest advancements in the surface/interface modification of transition metal oxides, with a particular focus on the strategies to enhance the electrochemical performance and stability of these materials in energy storage applications. It kicks off with a thorough exploration of vacancy engineering and delves into the fundamental mechanisms behind ion doping. Subsequently, various methods for modifying interfaces and surfaces, including thermal treatment, reduction method, cation/anion doping, plasma treatment, combustion treatment, laser ablation, are meticulously discussed. Furthermore, the crucial role of surface/interface modification of transition metal oxides in catalysis, supercapacitors, and secondary batteries is elaborated in detail. Finally, the review addresses the challenges and future prospects associated with modifying the surfaces/interfaces of transition met.
Synergistic Realization of Superior Potassium Storage in Group VB Metal Sulfoselenides via Complex-Assisted Interlayer Expansion and Augmented Charge Transfer Effect
Yifan Yang, Jinfeng Zheng, Zipeng Wang, Tiantian Liu, Penglei Chen, Zhanxiao Lu, Jiafan He, Yuxuan Wang, Xin Du, Dan Li
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2026.01.001
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Transition metal sulfoselenides inherit the 2D structure, large interlayer spacing, and high reactivity of their binary sulfide counterparts while tuning interlayer spacing and electronic structure via Se substitution for S, enhancing reaction kinetics and showing promise for potassium storage. Herein, a series of Group VB metal sulfoselenides (VSSe, NbSSe, and TaSSe) were successfully synthesized via chemical vapor transport and systematically evaluated their electrochemical properties as anodes for potassium-ion batteries. A combination of analytical techniques was employed to elucidate the underlying potassium storage mechanism, with findings confirming all three materials operate via intercalation. Both experimental findings and theoretical calculations reveal that NbSSe stands out among the three materials, showcasing exceptional electrochemical performance (retaining 182.1 mA h g-1 after 200 cycles at 0.5 A g-1 and exhibiting a rate capability of 127 mA h g-1 at 1 A g-1), the swiftest kinetics, the highest degree of metallicity, and the lowest reaction polarization. The essence of its enhanced performance lies in the unique ability of NbSSe to establish an interlayer expansion skeleton through complexes formed between the current collector Cu and electrolyte solvent molecules, which substantially widens the ion transport pathways - a feature absent in VSSe and TaSSe. Additionally, the pronounced charge transfer effect of Nb creates a synergistic interaction, and it is the combination of these two factors that propels NbSSe to ultimately attain superior electrochemical properties.
Transition metal dichalcogenide nanostructures: synthesis and application in detection and removal of metal ion contaminants from water
Xinyue Xiang, Binqi He, Maiyong Zhu
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2026.01.005
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At present, the global freshwater resources are severely lacking, and all life activities rely on freshwater resources. Industrial and domestic wastewater contain a large amount of toxic heavy metal ions and other toxic substances, which are not only harmful to human health but also cause significant damage to the environment. Therefore, it is necessary to detect and remove these metal ions. Although many technologies have been studied, there are still many deficiencies. At the same time, due to the vast proportion of the ocean on the earth, people hope that seawater resources can also be utilized by humans, and research on seawater desalination technology is being carried out. Capacitive deionization (CDI) technology has high desalination efficiency and no secondary pollution during the desalination process, and is therefore widely used. The core of these technologies lies in the materials used. Graphene-like materials, with their large specific surface area and numerous surface active sites, have been widely studied, especially transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) materials, which have excellent physical and chemical properties. This article mainly introduces the application of TMDs materials in the detection and removal of heavy metal ions in solutions and in CDI desalination, analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of the materials, and discusses the future development direction.
Polybenzimidazole anionic exchange membrane with hydrophobic clusters for efficient electrochemical CO2 reduction
Zuyu Li, Pingxia Zhang, Min He, Lihua Wang, Zhi Qiu, Yanbin Yun
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2026.01.002
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Specific anion exchange membranes (AEMs) are vital to highly efficient electrochemical CO2 reduction (ECR) which is a perspective choice for the carbon neutrality. However, the unexpected trade-off effect originated from the ion conductivity and the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is still a great challenge. Herein, AEMs with hydrophobic clusters distribution in hydrophilic domain were designed and prepared by special ternary-polymerization polybenzimidazole (TP-PBI). The hydrophilic domain contributed to high ionic conductivity and dispersed hydrophobic clusters inhibited the membrane swelling and consequently the HER. As a result, an increase of 157% was achieved in ionic conductivity compared with that of OPBI and the prepared TP-PBI membranes exhibit CO faraday efficiency (FEco) as high as 96.2%, outstanding in situ durability for 24 h at 100 mA·cm-2. Such TP-PBI membranes throw new light on the development of AEMs for highly efficient ECR.
Efficient polyolefin plastic upcycling into jet fuel components over a Fe/Beta catalyst in decalin
Xingyu Zhang, Aoyi Tang, Youjing Tu, Ruikai Li, Yao Zhang, Ze Song, Xinhao Shen, Junhong Liu, Yuan Liang, Shenggang Li, Lingzhao Kong
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2026.01.003
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Jet-range hydrocarbons were produced from polyolefin waste via a one-pot conversion of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) in decalin using a bifunctional Fe/Beta catalyst. Operating at 300 °C for 90 min afforded a liquid yield of 84.0 wt%, with 96.9 area% in the kerosene cut (C8–C16). The liquid product is rich in cycloalkanes (61.8 area%) and paraffins (24.4 area%), while aromatics remain limited (13.8 area%), consistent with aviation fuel specifications. Structure–performance analysis links the high activity and selectivity to uniformly dispersed Fe nanoparticles (2–5 nm) cooperating with tuned Brønsted/Lewis acidity on Beta zeolite. This metal–acid synergy enables controlled C–C scission and efficient hydrogenation, suppressing olefin accumulation and over-aromatization, thereby enhancing fuel quality. The results demonstrate a practical, mild route to upgrade plastic waste into drop-in jet-fuel components.
Mitigating Reaction Heterogeneity in Li-Rich Layered Cathodes through Surface-Phase Regulation Enabled by Tailored Concentration Gradients Engineering
Yujia Wu, Yuefeng Su, Jinyang Dong, Yun Lu, Jianan Hao, Huiquan Che, Teng Yang, Yiya Wang, Ning Li, Yibiao Guan, Feng Wu, Lai Chen
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.017
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Bioinspired Hierarchical Nanostructured CuBi2O4/CuO Heterojunction Photocathode for Enhanced Performance in Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting
Hao Xiu, Fan Fan, Pan An, Mengshen Zhang, Yuting Wang, Yongpeng Cui, Yajun Wang, Guiyuan Jiang, Chunming Xu
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.016
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The development of high-performance photocathode materials is crucial for solar hydrogen production, but their efficiency is often limited by poor charge separation, inefficient interfacial transfer, and sluggish surface reactions. In this work, a coral-like hierarchical nanostructured CuBi2O4/CuO heterojunction photocathode was designed to simultaneously overcome these limitations by synergistic adjusting the morphology and bandgap alignment. The optimized photocathode, featuring finer nanoscale microtentacles, substantially enhances the number of reactive sites, resulting in a significant enhanced interfacial electric field, which is 1.4 times greater than that of pure CuBi2O4. The CuBi2O4/CuO heterojunction photocathode generates a photocurrent density of 2.88 mA·cm-2 at 0.6 V vs. RHE, which is 4.43 times higher than that of a pure CuBi2O4 photocathode, and the incident photo-current efficiency reaches 18% at 400 nm. The charge transfer mechanism was elucidated using synchronous illumination X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (SI-XPS), in-situ Kelvin probe force microscopy (SI-KPFM) and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, which directly observed the transfer of photogenerated electrons from CuBi2O4 to CuO and confirmed the enhancement of the interfacial electric field intensity induced by the S-scheme heterojunction. This work integrates bionic strategies into PEC applications, offering a valuable reference for the structural design of photoelectrodes and potentially advancing the efficiency of photoelectrochemical systems.
Transferable Molecular Model for Benzimidazole-Linked Polymer Membranes Applied in Hydrogen Separation
Qianqian Zhu, Shaofan Duan, Meixia Shan, Freek Kapteijn, Xin Gao, Yatao Zhang, Dongyang Li
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.020
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Benzimidazole-linked polymers (BILPs), with their densely cross-linked ultramicroporous networks, are promising for hydrogen separation. However, the molecular selectivity mechanisms remain poorly understood, hindering rational design. We present a multiscale simulation for BILPs, using BILP-101 as a model, to precisely resolve its microstructural features and elucidate H2 separation performance at an unprecedented molecular level. Through meticulous optimization of simulation protocols, including force fields, atomic charges, chain configurations, and equilibration cycles, optimal simulation protocols were identified, and the interplay of pore architecture and chemical interactions driving H2 selectivity was uncovered. Our simulations not only demonstrate precise control over pore geometry but also accurately replicate experimental H2/CO2, H2/N2, H2/CH4 separation performance across standard and elevated temperatures. The generality of our model was further validated by its strong agreement with empirical data for BILP-5 and BILP-15. This work bridges advanced molecular modeling with experimental validation, providing design principles to accelerate the development of next-generation BILPs or other polymer membranes for energy-efficient gas separation.
Enhanced coal tar-resistance of LaFeO3-based oxygen carrier for chemical looping reforming of coke oven gas
Longyu Wen, Zhiqiang Li, Nina Chen, Jiangyong Yuan, Yuelun Li, Lei Jiang, Hua Wang, Kongzhai Li
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2026.01.004
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Chemical looping reforming of coke oven gas (COG) is a promising technology for producing cheap hydrogen, but the presence of coal tar with relatively high concentration presents an enormous challenge for the design of oxygen carriers. In the present work, the effect of naphthalene (a coal tar model compound) on the activity and structure stability of LaFeO3-based perovskite oxygen carriers for chemical looping reforming of COG were investigated. We found that the presence of naphthalene would inhibit the methane conversion and lead to serious carbon deposit on oxygen carriers, thus reducing the structure stability during the redox cycling. In response to the aforementioned findings, a series of La1-xYxFe0.93Ni0.07O3-λ perovskite oxygen carriers were designed based on co-doping of A and B sites strategy. The presence of Ni2+ at B-site can improve the capacity of oxygen carrier for methane activation, and the Y3+ substitution at A-site may enhance the activity of lattice oxygen via regulating the Fe-O bond-length. With a suitable content of Ni and Y, the La0.9Y0.1Fe0.93Ni0.07O3-λ oxygen carrier shows superior performance for chemical looping reforming of COG, with the CH4 conversion higher than 99% and excellent stability during long-term redox cycles in the presence of 400 ppm naphthalene at 800 °C. This work may provide a viable strategy for developing robust perovskite oxygen carriers for the chemical looping reforming of fuels with relativity high content of impurities.
Ammonia Synthesis and Cracking: Thermocatalytic versus Electrochemical Approaches
Xue Ding, Sze Xing Tan, Zhang Lili, Jiajian Gao
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.018
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Ammonia (NH3) is a key chemical for agriculture, energy storage, and industrial processes. Its synthesis and cracking (decomposition) are pivotal for a sustainable energy future, particularly in the context of green energy transitions. Two major approaches for these processes are thermocatalysis and electrocatalysis, each with unique mechanisms, challenges, and advantages, as discussed in this review. Thermocatalysis is more mature but energy-intensive, while electrocatalysis promises lower energy consumption and compatibility with renewable energy sources. Electrochemical approach has the potential to eliminate carbon emissions if coupled with green electricity, whereas thermocatalysis is reliant on fossil fuels unless carbon capture is implemented. Thermocatalytic processes for ammonia are well-established at an industrial scale, whereas electrocatalytic systems require further technological development to match this capacity. In summary, thermocatalysis remains the dominant method for ammonia synthesis and cracking due to its industrial maturity. However, electrocatalysis offers a promising pathway toward sustainable and decentralized solutions, provided ongoing challenges in efficiency, stability, and scalability are addressed. Balancing these technologies will be crucial in transitioning to a low-carbon economy.
Metal-free C(CN)3 cooperated with Co-Ti dual sites in bimetallic CoTi-MOF as a tandem photocatalyst for highly efficient C2H4 production
Lijun Xiong, Dandan Zhu, Chenglong Qiu, Weihong Zeng, Mingshi Xu, Shanshan Wang, Yong Yang
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.019
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The photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) into high-value C2+ hydrocarbons represents a sustainable pathway to alleviate energy shortages and reduce atmospheric CO2 levels. In this study, a unique tandem photocatalyst (CoTi-CN), is constructed by integrating bimetallic CoTi-MOF with metal-free half-metallic C(CN)3. This composite demonstrates markedly enhanced activity and selectivity in the photocatalytic CO2 reduction to ethylene (C2H4), achieving a C2H4 selectivity of 36.8% and a generation yield of 31.3 μmol g−1 over 5 h. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations combined with in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) analysis reveal that C(CN)3 acts as an efficient CO2 to CO converter, while CoTi-MOF favors the adsorption and C-C coupling of *CO intermediates. The spatially decoupled CO generation and C-C coupling processes lead to optimized intermediate coverage and reduced energy barriers, resulting in superior selectivity toward multi-carbon products. This work opens new horizons for the design of tandem photocatalysts that combine half-metallic catalysts with bimetallic MOFs, achieving a significant enhancement in the activity and selectivity of photocatalytic C2H4 production.
Revolutionizing eco-environmental solutions through 3D printing: A strategic vision for future innovations
Xudong Guo, Bin He, Ligang Hu, Guibin Jiang
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.015
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Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology is emerging as a transformative tool in eco-environmental research. It innovates environmental analysis technologies, augments environmental purification, alleviates environmental health risks, and fosters ecological sustainability. Nevertheless, most current applications of 3D printing in the eco-environmental domain remain largely confined to laboratory testing stages, with limited translation to large-scale and real-world deployment. In this viewpoint, we review recent progress and critical challenges within this field, while providing strategic perspectives for its future trajectory. We highlight the imperative to integrate cutting-edge 3D printing techniques into eco-environmental research, advance sustainable printing materials, and develop integrated multifunctional devices for environmental monitoring and remediation. Furthermore, we introduce a pioneering conceptual framework: self-sustaining composite artificial biosystems. Here we envision it as a bionic tree, a 3D-printed biohybrid construct that integrates an open microfluidic scaffold with engineered living materials to autonomously maintain biological activity through self-driven internal mass transport. While emulating key morphological and physiological features of natural plants, the bionic tree transcends its natural analogue by enabling synthetic biology-guided environmental remediation, CO2 sequestration, and energy production. We provide an in-depth analysis of the rationale behind this concept, assess its technical feasibility, and present a developmental roadmap for this emerging research direction. Our insights are poised to amplify the contribution of 3D printing to the eco-environmental sector, thereby facilitating environmental pollution control and sustainable development.
Bimetallic Mo2C-Co Nanoparticles Embedded in Nitrogen-Doped Carbon Heterostructures as an Efficient Fenton-like Catalyst for Antibiotics Degradation
Lifei Lian, Hanbin Hu, Zhaohui Wu, Sai An, Yu-Fei Song
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.010
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Fenton and Fenton-like catalysts have demonstrated great potential in the field of antibiotic degradation. However, it remains a challenge to remove the high concentrations of antibiotics effectively over a wide range of pH values. Herein, we successfully fabricate a heterostructure of cobalt (Co) and molybdenum carbide (Mo2C) embedded in nitrogen-doped carbon (Mo2C-Co/N-C) by calcination of H3PMo12O40 (PMo12)-encapsulated Zn/Co-ZIF at 900 oC, in which the Co and Mo2C nanoparticles (NPs) are uniformly encapsulated in porous carbon with a high specific surface area of 315.9 m2·g-1 and a pore volume of 0.68 cm3·g-1. The as-prepared Mo2C-Co/N-C exhibits 99.3% degradation efficiency of 100 ppm of tetracycline (TC) within 20 min in the presence of H2O2 with the reaction rate constant k of 0.211 min-1, outperforming most reported Fenton-like catalysts. Moreover, the Mo2C-Co/N-C achieved above 90% removal efficiency for TC at concentrations up to 100 ppm over a wide range of pH values (3.0–9.0) and can also be recycled ten times without an obvious decrease in degradation efficiency, indicating satisfactory reusability and stability. Comprehensive studies demonstrated that the loss of electrons in Co species enhances the specific adsorption of TC and H2O2. Simultaneously, the Mo2C can accelerate the redox cycle of Co2+ → Co3+ → Co2+ and promote the generation of reactive oxygen species (1O2 and · OH) which ensured an improved catalytic activity.
Upcycling FCC slurry via in-situ SiCl4-catalyzed polycondensation: Constructing core-shell Si@C composites for high-stability lithium storage
Pengtao Fang, Haitao Song, Zhijian Da
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.014
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Petroleum-based polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), as by-products of petroleum, offer the advantages of abundant availability and high carbon content, making them ideal high-quality raw materials for the fabrication of carbon anode materials in lithium batteries (LIBs). This study presents a novel, dual-purpose strategy to fabricate hollow core-shell silicon-carbon composites (Si@Void@Cx) via the in-situ catalytic polycondensation of Fluid Catalytic Cracking (FCC) slurry. Unlike traditional synthesis routes employing metallic Lewis acids (e.g., AlCl3, FeCl3), silicon tetrachloride (SiCl4) was used as a cleaner, bifunctional catalyst that avoids metallic contamination while facilitating the precise polymerization of the carbon matrix. This approach not only circumvents the integration of heteroatoms via the catalyst, but also simplifies the process flow, reduces energy consumption, and contributes to a greener, sustainable technology by enhancing the high-value utilization of FCC, benefiting both resource conservation and environmental protection. The optimized composite (Si@Void@C1) delivers a robust electrochemical performance, exhibiting a specific capacity of 601.9 mAh/g and maintaining electrode integrity with a negligible thickness expansion of only 7% after 1000 cycles. Si@Void@C1 capitalizes on the well-dispersed silicon (Si) nanoparticles and the intact hollow core-shell structure to effectively buffer against the volume expansion stress of Si, thus maintaining electrode structural integrity and achieving superior cycling performance. This work provides a scalable, sustainable pathway for transforming petrochemical byproducts into advanced energy storage materials.
Synergistically Enhanced Thermal and Mechanical Properties of CNT-Modified Docosane@SiO2 Nanocapsules for Advanced Thermal Energy Storage
Yudan Li, Xiaoqi Zhong, Zhengguo Zhang, Ziye Ling, Xiaoming Fang
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.012
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This study presents a novel strategy for synthesizing carbon nanotube (CNT)-modified n-docosane@SiO2 (C22@SiO2) phase change nanocapsules with simultaneously enhanced latent heat, thermal conductivity, and mechanical strength. A critical pretreatment step involving the ultrasonic dispersion of CNTs in tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) for ≥3 hours was critical, enabling effective adsorption of TEOS onto CNT surfaces and thereby facilitating their co-encapsulation with C22 within SiO2 shells via interfacial polycondensation. Systematic optimization revealed that a 3-hour dispersion was essential for forming structurally intact capsules, achieving an encapsulation efficiency of 80.2% and a melting enthalpy (ΔHm) of 188.5 J·g-1. The optimal CNT loading of 0.05 g maximized core crystallinity (66.75%) and latent heat (ΔHm: 188.5 J·g-1 vs. 168.3 J·g-1 for unmodified capsules), while reducing the melting point by 2.4 °C due to molecular interactions between CNTs and C22, as confirmed by solid-state 1H NMR. The optimized capsules (denoted as P-CNT-0.05) exhibited a 36.8% higher thermal conductivity (0.52 W·m-1·K-1), a 338.9% increase in Young’s modulus (3964 MPa), near-zero leakage (0.88% mass loss after heating), and stable performance over 100 thermal cycles. This work provides a scalable route to multifunctional phase change nanocapsules with triply enhanced energy storage capacity, heat transfer efficiency, and mechanical durability, demonstrating great potential for advanced thermal management applications.
Tuning hard carbon pore structure via water vapor activation for enhanced sodium-ion storage
Zuqin Duan, Wang Zhou, Ying Mo, Rui Tang, Yan Duan, Aiping Hu, Jilei Liu
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.011
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The precise construction of closed pores in carbon anodes is crucial for boosting low-voltage plateau capacity of sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). Traditional closed-pore fabrication methods often face environmental and economic challenges. To address these limitations, this study proposes an innovative synergistic strategy combining water vapor activation with high-temperature repair. By precisely controlling the steam dosage during the 800 °C pre-carbonization stage, a tunable open pore network was constructed in the material, followed by efficient transformation of these open pores into ultra-micropores and closed pores through 1350 °C high-temperature treatment. The study reveals that the volume and size of open pores during pre-carbonization directly determines the final pore structure characteristics. Excessively large and abundant open pores hinder the transformation of the pore architecture during high-temperature treatment. The optimized PRHC2 anode demonstrates outstanding electrochemical performance, delivering a reversible capacity of 377.6 mAh g-1 at 30 mA g-1, including 284.1 mAh g-1 contribution from the plateau region. This research not only addresses the constraints of conventional methods but also provides critical technical support for developing next-generation carbon anode materials.
Organic anion-intercalation boosting intrinsic Cl- capture capability of layered double hydroxide anode for enhanced capacitive deionization
Huazeng Yang, Rui Zhang, Ming Hou, Dongling Li, Jun Cao, Xingtao Xu, Weiwei Zhou, Guangwu Wen, Xiaoxiao Huang, Dong Wang
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.001
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Layered double hydroxides (LDH) hold great promise as capacitive deionization (CDI) anode owing to high Cl- capture capacity and abundant interlamellar ions transport channels. However, their narrow interlayer spacing results in sluggish ions diffusion and huge volume variation during Cl- adsorption/desorption, which become worse owing to large ionic radius of Cl-. Herein, we reveal the significant effectiveness of organic anions intercalation on boosting intrinsic Cl- capture capabilities of LDH anode. Compared with traditional inorganic anions-intercalated LDH anode, organic anion-intercalated LDH possess expanded interlayer spacing and increased proportion of highly active divalent metal ions in the host layer. Theoretical calculations unveil that organic anion intercalation endow LDH with stronger Cl- capture ability, faster ions diffusion behaviors, and stronger bonding strength with positively charged host layers. As expected, the prepared seven kinds of organic anion-intercalated LDH anodes all manifest fast pseudocapacitive reaction kinetics and enhanced desalination performance; particularly, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) intercalated LDH (LDH-SDS) anode exhibits large desalination capacity of 58.6 mg g-1 and excellent cyclic stability (76.9% retention ratio over 300 cycles), surpassing most of previously reported LDH-based CDI anodes. A series of in-situ/ex-situ characterizations further reveal outstanding structural stability and electrochemical reversibility of LDH-SDS anode. This work demonstrates great potential of crystal modulation on improving intrinsic ions capture capability of LDH and pave new insights for developing advanced CDI electrode.
Multi-Order Built-In Electric Field Engineering in Vo-ZF@TCN Heterojunctions for Efficient PMS Activation in Photo-Fenton-Like Reactions
Yiwen Wang, Yan Wang, Puyang Zhou, Chenchao Hu, Jia Yan, Yilin Deng, Yu Gan, Meng Xie, Liying Huang, Yuanguo Xu
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.003
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The adsorption of PMS and the associated transfer of photogenerated carriers are prerequisites for photo-Fenton activation. In this work, we constructed an S-scheme Vo-ZF@TCN heterojunction with the characteristics of interlayer and in-plane multi-level built-in electric fields (BIEF). It was found that the BIEF amplitude of the in-plane heterojunction was ∼2.7 times that of a traditional heterojunction. The strong BIEF promotes the directional, rapid, and efficient transfer of photogenerated charge carriers, enabling the photostimulated synergistic activation of PMS for the degradation of organic pollutants. The rational design of redox ends promotes the formation of electron-deficient Vo-Fe, which creates Lewis acid adsorption sites. This design constructs a composite site for PMS adsorption and carrier transfer. We elucidated that the directional migration of electrons and holes cause spatial separation of PMS radical and non-radical activation sites and regulates the activation pathways by altering the migration direction of PMS through adsorption. This study provides new insights into the regulation of PMS activation pathways and enriches the design strategies for efficient photogenerated carrier transport and transfer.
Exploring critical development in photocatalytic overall Water splitting: Recent trend, Current Challenges and Prospects
Z. Ajmal, M.H. Ullah, A. Qadeer, H. Zhang, M.A. Khan, S. Shen, Y. Orooji, Mohd. Imran, M.K.M. Ali, R. Taha, J. Li, S. Lu, W. Abbas, S. Wang
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.005
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Despite intensive research on solar-driven photocatalytic overall water splitting (OWS), the overall efficiencies remain insufficient to meet commercial standards. As central challenge in realizing this technology mainly lies in the precise tuning and rational designing of highly efficient materials and photocatalytic system, which is paramount for unlocking scalable, practical applications. However, novel materials fabrication and advanced photocatalytic systems is essential for overcoming intrinsic limitations of conventional catalysts by enabling this green technology to resolve global energy crisis. Therefore, this review critically explores the engineering developments in (OWS) process and novel photocatalyst designing, via shifting from simple bandgap engineering to more advanced charge carrier dynamics control via utilizing one/two-step photocatalytic excitation system, surface phase junctions i.e., Z-scheme and S-scheme heterojunctions, surface modification, morphological tuning, along with the role of co-catalysts, to control sluggish kinetic, promote four-hole oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and suppressing undesirable H2/O2, backward reaction with superior visible light absorption capacity to produce remarkable energy production. Moreover, we critically, discuss the recent trend of OWS from a materials discovery phase to demanding engineering and mechanistic optimization phase with viable economic viability, which requires bridging the gap between excellent lab-scale performance to stringent stability, cost, and high efficiency demands of industrial-scale solar fuel production with more beneficial systems. In addition, the currents challenges and future directions are also enclosed in detail for sustainable energy production.
Tailoring a photoreactive biomass-based redox coupled material for interaction enhanced removal of Cr(Ⅵ) and As(Ⅲ)
Yuanyuan Hu, Jun Mao, Yichun Xue, Zhanlong Tan, Fei Xue, Yuqian Yang, Lei Wang, Hongxiang Zhu, Hui He
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.007
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Reduction and complete removal of chromium (VI) and arsenic (III) are crucial for the purification of heavy metal-contaminated wastewater. Here, a photo-responsive eucalyptus-based adsorption-catalytic material was engineered by anchoring polyethyleneimine, porous carbon, and iron oxide onto eucalyptus. The material featured a high density of amino and Fe(Ⅱ)/Fe(Ⅲ), the ability to generate free radicals and heat upon light irradiation. High toxicity Cr(Ⅵ) and As(Ⅲ) in water were adsorbed onto the material while catalytically converted into less toxic Cr(Ⅲ) and As(Ⅴ) under light conditions. Notably, the valence cycling of Fe(Ⅱ) and Fe(Ⅲ) during the adsorption process played a critical role in facilitating the redox reactions converting Cr(Ⅵ) to Cr(Ⅲ) and As(Ⅲ) to As(Ⅴ). Furthermore, the preferential Cr(Ⅵ) adsorption on the material generated reactive sites for As(Ⅲ) oxidation, accelerating arsenic adsorption. Consequently, the eucalyptus-based adsorption-conversion material was capable of completely removing 100.0 mg·L-1 of Cr(Ⅵ) and As(Ⅲ), achieving over 95% conversion to the less toxic forms. This work elucidated the synergistic mechanisms underlying the adsorption-conversion processes of Cr(Ⅵ) and As(Ⅲ), providing novel insights into the material design of substances with synergistic and competing functionalities.
Hexagonal close-packed Ni (101) facets boost furan ring activation for selective total hydrogenation of biomass-derived 5-hydroxymethylfurfural over carbon-encapsulated Ni catalysts
Conghao Ku, Lihua Du, Huidu Xu, Xucheng Li, Siyuan Long, Zhengli Liu, Ik Seon Kwon, Jeunghee Park, Weiran Yang
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.009
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Selective total hydrogenation of biomass-derived 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to 2,5-bis(hydroxymethyl)tetrahydrofuran (BHMTHF) under mild condition is crucial in biomass refining, yet dauntingly challenging with non-precious metal catalysts. Herein, the hexagonal-close-packed (hcp) Ni dominated carbon-encapsulated Ni-based catalyst (Ni@C-3) was fabricated via a facile citric acid induced carbonization strategy, which exhibited an outstanding catalytic performance toward the hydrogenation of HMF, achieving a high BHMTHF yield of 95.4% under 70 °C and 2 MPa H2. Additionally, even at high HMF concentrations (2500 mM), it maintained an high BHMTHF yield of 89.7%. The carbon layer, derived from the thermal decomposition of citric acid, effectively prevents the agglomeration of Ni nanoparticles and suppresses the phase transition of hcp-Ni to fcc-Ni. The carbon-encapsulated structure ensures the excellent storage stability and reusability of catalysts. Structure-activity relationship studies demonstrated that the hcp-Ni (101) crystal facets effectively reduce the reaction energy barrier of the rate-determining step (furan ring hydrogenation) during the reaction process, thereby promoting the hydrogenation of HMF to BHMTHF. Furthermore, the Ni@C-3 exhibited excellent catalytic activity in the hydrogenation of compounds containing various functional groups. Notably, furfural can also be hydrogenated to tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol (THFA) under solvent-free conditions, and the yield of THFA can reach 91.2%. This study provides a facile strategy for designing and developing advanced hydrogenation catalysts based on crystal phase engineering, which makes it a promising alternative to noble metal catalysts in biorefineries.
Discrimination of Single and Binary Gases Using an Intelligent Electronic Nose System Based on Metal Oxide Gas Sensors
Xiaomeng Li, Zhengmao Cao, Jiaming Li, Wu Wang, Qingqing Ye, Behzad Rezaei, Fan Dong
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.006
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The pollutants emitted from industrial facilities seriously affect the atmospheric environment and human health. Accurately detecting low-concentration gas pollutants by single metal oxide gas sensors remains a significant challenge. In this study, we developed a novel electronic nose system to precisely discriminate components and concentrations of single and binary gas mixtures. The specific sensor array was constructed with six sensors based on SnO2 and Co3O4 sensing materials. The dataset collected from the electronic nose system was analyzed using k-nearest neighbor (KNN), support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), and logistic regression (LR) algorithms. For low-concentration ethanol, ammonia, and toluene, the KNN model accurately discriminated gas components and concentrations, achieving a five-fold cross-validation accuracy of 97.2%. As the number of sensors increased from 3 to 6, the accuracy for the types and concentrations of single and binary mixtures rose from 78.9% to 97.2%. The discrimination results for low-concentration gaseous pollutants demonstrate great potential for real atmospheric quality monitoring and provide an effective solution to the precise detection by metal oxide sensors.
Clostridium butyricum Mineralization of Intracellular Gold Nanoclusters to Boost Biohydrogen Production Using Visible Light
Yaoqiang Wang, Gang Xiao, Jianmin Xing, Haijia Su
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.008
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Photocatalytic intracellular biohybrid systems hold great potential for enhancing biohydrogen production using solar energy. yet conventional approaches face nanoparticle toxicity and inefficient transmembrane electron transfer. Here, we developed an intracellular biohybrid system via in-situ biomineralization of gold nanoclusters (Au NCs, 2.15 ± 0.68 nm) within C. butyricum. This biosynthesis leveraged native ion-transport proteins for Au(III) uptake, synthesizing photocatalytically active Au NCs through cysteine-mediated reduction. This intracellular engineering confines photoexcitation and electron transfer within bacterial cells, eliminating transmembrane energy losses. As expected, the photoexcited Au NCs significantly enhanced intracellular NADH regeneration and ATP synthesis versus dark controls, boosting metabolic reducing power and energy. This resulted in a 70.42% increase in hydrogen production (2.34 mol H2·mol-1 glucose). Furthermore, Au NCs eliminated reactive oxygen species (ROS), improving system viability and stability under visible light. This work establishes a platform for engineering biocompatible hybrid systems via endogenous nanophotocatalyst self-assembly.
3D-printing enables geometry-optimized ceramic membranes with minimizing mass transfer resistance for environmental application
Yuanhui Gao, Dong Zou, Ze-xian Nicholas Low, Zhaoxiang Zhong, Weihong Xing
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.004
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Membrane separation technology, with its features of high efficiency and environmental sustainability, is playing an increasingly important role in the field of energy conservation and emission reduction. Membrane structure design has shown high advantages in reducing mass transfer resistance and enhancing separation efficiency. In this study, 3D printing technology was employed to fabricate a direct-channel structured alumina-mullite ceramic membrane to enhance membrane separation efficiency. A ceramic slurry was used as raw material to precisely manufacture ceramic membrane as the digital model, achieving high curing depth of 200 μm and low curing width of 50 μm. Moreover, in-situ mullite reaction was employed to form sintering necks among ceramic particles to enhance the bending strength. The effects of solid content and sintering temperature on the membrane properties were systematically investigated. When the solid content was 75 wt% and sintering temperature was 1400 °C, the ceramic membrane with conventional structure exhibited a pore size of 1.1 μm and pure water flux of 1698 L/(m2·h·bar). In contrast, the direct-channel structured ceramic membrane exhibited a high pure water flux of 4700 L/(m2·h·bar), which was ∼3 times higher than those of the conventional ones. This improvement of permeability could be attributed to the optimized mass transfer process that was confirmed via computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation. To demonstrate the potential application of this ceramic membrane in the environmental sustainability, oil/water emulsion separation was taken as an example. The membrane demonstrated high separation efficiency of above 99% and a stable water permeance of 130 L/(m2·h·bar) during oil/water emulsion filtration. This work provides a fundamental basis to advance the development of structurally designed ceramic membranes for environmental sustainability.
From Photo-Assisted to Photo-Rechargeable: Advancing Zn-Ion Batteries with Light-Driven Energy Storage
Dan Yang, Chen Xin, Hua-Kun Liu, Yaoxin Zhang, Ting Xiong
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.12.002
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Solar energy represents a transformative, inexhaustible, and eco-friendly solution for sustainable power generation. However, its intermittent nature requires efficient energy storage technologies to maximize utilization. A promising approach involves integrating photoactive materials into the cathodes of zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs), enabling direct solar energy capture and storage while improving electrochemical performance. This review systematically explores the emerging field of light-driven ZIBs (LDZIBs), focusing on two main operational modes: photo-assisted ZIBs (PAZIBs), where light enhances battery performance, and photo-rechargeable ZIBs (PRZIBs), which can be directly charged by light without external power sources. We comprehensively examine the classification, working mechanisms, and material integration strategies for these systems. Key advances in electrode design, innovative materials, and potential application scenarios for both PAZIBs and PRZIBs are highlighted. Finally, we discuss the major challenges and future research directions aimed at improving the efficiency, stability, and scalability of LDZIBs to facilitate their commercialization as a cornerstone technology for future solar energy storage.
Ambient-air fabrication of perovskite solar cells: challenges, progress, and perspectives
Xinyu Gu, Xiang Zhang, Dongxu Ren, Yixin Zhao, Hao Chen
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.11.005
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Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have emerged as a revolutionary photovoltaic technology due to their exceptional optoelectronic properties and low-cost solution processability, yet their fabrication typically demands stringent inert conditions to mitigate environmental degradation. However, achieving efficient and stable PSC fabrication in ambient air is crucial for their widespread commercialization, as it significantly reduces manufacturing costs, simplifies process flow, and enables scalable roll-to-roll and printing techniques. The main challenges hindering ambient processing include moisture-induced degradation, oxygen-related oxidation, and humidity-driven variations in crystallization kinetics, which often lead to reduced film quality, defective interfaces, and limited device performance. Recent advancements in ambient-air processing of PSCs present a promising pathway toward scalable and eco-friendly manufacturing, though challenges such as moisture sensitivity, oxygen-induced degradation, and crystallization control remain. This review examines ambient-air effects on perovskite formation, device performance, and stability, alongside strategies for improvement via compositional engineering, solvent optimization, and novel deposition methods. Furthermore, we discuss the progress in lab-scale and large-scale ambient-air fabrication methods, emphasizing their potential for industrial translation. Finally, we outline future research directions to enhance the efficiency, stability, and commercial viability of air-processed PSCs, underscoring their critical role in sustainable energy development.
Engineering Oxygen Vacancy-Rich CoFe2O4@C Core-Shell Microreactors via Defect-Morphology Dual Synergy for Ultrafast Peroxymonosulfate Activation
Long Sui, Zheng-Tao Dong, Yuan Tian, Lei Ma, Cheng-Gang Niu, Ming Yan, Jia-Jia Wang
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.11.006
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This study innovatively employs a "dual-engineering synergy" strategy combining defect engineering and morphological engineering to construct oxygen vacancy (OV)-enriched CoFe2O4@C core-shell microreactors (OV-CFO@C) for efficient peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation. The optimized OV-CFO@C-500 catalyst exhibits exceptional Fenton-like performance, degrading 97.65% of CIP in 12 min (kobs = 0.2984 min-1, 29.25 times that of PMS alone). Structural characterizations confirm successful OV introduction and core-shell architecture, where carbon cores prevent CoFe2O4 agglomeration while enabling reactant enrichment. Theoretical calculations reveal that core-shell structure and Ov modulate d-band center positions and electron delocalization, synergistically enhancing PMS adsorption energy and electron transfer efficiency. Mechanistic studies identify cooperative radical pathways (•OH/SO4•− contribution: 54.1%) and non-radical electron transfer processes. Notably, the catalyst demonstrates strong recyclability (88.91% CIP removal after 5 cycles), broad pH tolerance (pH 3–9), low metal ion leaching (< 0.06 mg/L), and practical applicability in real water matrices. In continuous-flow degradation systems, 12 h operation achieved sustained removal rates of 96.8% for CIP and 55.2% for total organic carbon (TOC). This study provides new insights into defect-microstructure engineering for advanced oxidation process optimization.
Low-cost industrial feedstocks derived calcium-based pellets assisted by pores regeneration for direct solar-driven thermochemical energy storage
Xinrui Wang, Xianglei Liu, Chao Song, Hangbin Zheng, Yongliang Li
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.11.004
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Calcium-based thermochemical energy storage (TCES) offers unique advantages of high energy density, long-duration energy retention, and high operation temperature, making it ideally suited for next-generation concentrated solar power (CSP) plants. However, the inherently poor cyclic stability and solar absorptance of CaO/CaCO3 limit its commercial viability. Conventional strategy relies on incorporating expensive inert supports and absorption enhancers into Ca-based materials, yet inevitably amplifies production costs. Here, low-cost industrial feedstocks derived Ca-based pellets assisted by pores regeneration are proposed for direct solar-driven thermochemical energy storage. Aluminous cement and manganese sand are used as the inert support and absorption enhancer additive, respectively, serving as cost-effective alternatives to expensive reagents. Composite Ca-based pellets possess a high energy storage density of 953 kJ/kg over 50 calcination/carbonation cycles, which is 2.09 times higher compared with conventional limestones. Direct solar thermochemical energy storage power density achieves as high as 1.68 kW/kg, which is enhanced by 30.2%. The underlying mechanism is attributed to pores regeneration during calcination-carbonation cycles, which are created by differential deformations of active CaO/CaCO3 and thermal pretreated enhanced inert skeletons. Furthermore, it achieves an industry-leading energy storage economy of 4.63 MJ/$, highlighting distinct low-cost advantages compared with similar energy storage materials reported in the literature. This work proposes a cost-effective strategy for engineering Ca-based TCES pellets, bridging the gap between high-performance thermochemical energy storage and scalable industrial applications.
Catalysts for Tar Reforming in Biomass and Solid Waste Gasification: A Comprehensive Review
Tianyue Liu, Xixi Lian, Dong Liang, Shuxiao Wang, Rui Shan, Haoran Yuan, Yong Chen
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.11.003
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Catalytic reforming plays a pivotal role in converting tar produced from the gasification of biomass and municipal solid waste (MSW). This review offers an in-depth discussion of formation processes and major components of tar, as well as the fundamental mechanisms of its catalytic reforming. The review also introduced various catalysts and their deactivation issues, such as active metals (transition metals, noble metals, and alkali metals), supports (metal oxides, carbon-based materials, perovskites, and core-shell structures), and promoters. Meanwhile, it summarized the synergistic interactions between active metals and supports, along with the modulation of catalyst redox properties, metal-support interactions (MSI), and surface acidity/basicity through promoters. Furthermore, the main challenges at industrial scale are summarized: complex chemistry, particle clogging and thermal stress. Current strategies being explored to address these include structured and alloyed catalysts, process integration, catalyst regeneration and simulation optimization. It was expected to further flourish the catalytic reforming in the energy regeneration of biomass and solid waste gasification.
Heat and Hydrogen Co-Production based on Photoresponsive Electrode in the Full-Spectrum SOEC Hybrid System
Chen-Ge Chen, Chenyu Xu, Guangyu Deng, Jinhao Mei, Shiyao Wu, Entao Zhang, Yanwei Zhang, Jing-Li Luo
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.11.002
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Facing the growing demand for clean and efficient energy conversion, this study presents the first full-spectrum SOEC hybrid system that co-produces heat and hydrogen by integrating a photoresponsive electrode. The electrode is directly irradiated to generate an additional photocurrent, thereby boosting hydrogen yield, while spectral splitting technology simultaneously supplies the SOEC with both heat and electricity. A comprehensive modeling framework, including the SOEC, balance of plant, and solar photoresponsive models, is developed to evaluate system energy and water flow and to analyze factor interactions within the photoresponsive material. Under optimized conditions, the system achieves an exergy efficiency of 58.98%, a solar-to-hydrogen (STH) efficiency of 28.30%, and a solar-to-thermal (STT) efficiency of 43.78%, offering new theoretical insights and practical design rules for highly efficient, flexible full-spectrum solar hydrogen production.
Rigid-flexible dual network hydrogel photoelectrodes for ultrafast and stable catalytic degradation of bisphenol A with minimal metal leaching
Xinmiao Qi, Guoxin Ma, Xiang Xiong, Xin Deng, Ping Jiang, Xin Guo, Yiqiang Wu
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.11.001
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Photoelectrocatalytic (PEC) technologies provide a promising and sustainable approach for the elimination of persistent organic pollutants, but their practical deployment is limited by catalyst deactivation and metal leaching. Here, we proposed a rational design strategy to address this challenge by constructing a rigid-flexible dual network hydrogel photoelectrode (CCMPCu) for ultrafast and stable catalytic degradation of bisphenol A (BPA) with minimal metal leaching. CCMPCu was fabricated by incorporating Cu2O@ZIF-67 into a chemically cross-linked chitosan/cellulose nanofibril (CNF)-MXene matrix (rigid network), which was further embedded within an in situ polymerized polyaniline network (flexible network). CCMPCu exhibited a high BPA adsorption capacity of 211.1 ± 6.2 mg g-1, ~4× that of Cu2O@ZIF-67. Under visible light, CCMPCu achieved nearly complete BPA removal (~100%) within 40 min, with a pseudo-first-order rate constant (k = 0.0836 ± 0.0041 min-1), representing a ninefold enhancement over Cu2O@ZIF-67. CCMPCu also showed excellent durability, maintaining over 90% removal efficiency after ten consecutive cycles with negligible Cu (< 5 ppb) and Co (< 8 ppb) leaching. Mechanistic studies revealed that synergistic integration of the rigid-flexible dual network, MXene, and Cu2O@ZIF-67 facilitated pollutant preconcentration and photogenerated charge separation, thereby collectively contributing to the enhanced PEC performance. Additionally, CCMPCu showed broad applicability by effectively degrading structurally diverse bisphenol analogues. This work presents a generalizable strategy for fabricating robust, multifunctional CS/CNF-based hydrogel photoelectrodes and offers valuable insights for the sustainable remediation of endocrine-disrupting contaminants.
A Tunable and Universal Catalyst for Efficient One-Pot Conversion of Xylose to γ-Valerolactone
Qiwen Zhan, Ruonan Zhu, Qingchong Xu, Xingjie Wang, Lihong Zhao, Fengxia Yue, Junli Ren
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.10.012
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The one-pot synthesis of γ-valerolactone (GVL) from xylose is pivotal for sustainable biofuel and fine chemical production. This study introduces a novel catalyst, Hf-LS-Beta, which is tailored for efficient xylose conversion to GVL, subsequently applied in a tandem process for wheat straw pre-hydrolysate catalysis. The catalyst features dispersed Lewis acid active sites formed through Hf and lignosulfonate sodium (LS) coordination within the Beta porous structure, enhancing accessibility. Both the structure and acidic properties of the catalyst were tunable by varying precursor dosages, with optimal performance achieved at a total Lewis acid content of 118-128 μmol/g and a specific surface area of 171-186 m2/g. Under optimized conditions, the Hf (1.5)-LS-Beta (0.4) catalyst delivered the highest GVL yield of 45.71% from xylose and maintained high stability over five cycles. Furthermore, a GVL yield of 29.37% was attained from xylose-rich hydrolysate from wheat straw. This catalyst achieves record-high xylose conversion in isopropanol, efficiently promoting cascade reactions involving dehydration, hydrogenation, ring-opening, and lactonization for GVL formation. Substrate versatility was also demonstrated with the successful conversion of glucose and arabinose, indicating the strong potential for integrated two-step GVL production from lignocellulosic biomass.
Selective Hydrogenolysis of Lignin to Alkene-Functionalized Monomers over ZnO-Modified Carbon Nanotube Supported Pd Catalysts
Wen Zhao, Qun Yu, Bingqing Wei, Lei Nie, Fabio Souza Toniolo, Zhenglong Li
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.10.011
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Although current methods enable lignin extraction and depolymerization, the selective hydrogenolysis of lignin into alkene-functionalized monomers remains a significant scientific challenge. These monomers can be further functionalized into diverse natural products or pharmaceutical intermediates, thereby enabling higher-value utilization of biomass resources. Here, we report a catalyst with low Pd loading (0.4 wt%) supported on ZnO-modified carbon nanotubes (Pd/ZnNC) for the selective catalytic hydrogenolysis of the dimer β-O-4 lignin model compound (veratrylglycerol-β-guaiacyl ether, VG) via distinct reaction pathways. The Pd/ZnNC catalyst achieves a selectivity of 37.5% toward alkene-functionalized monomers (1,2-dimethoxy-4-allylbenzene and 1,2-dimethoxy-4-propenylbenzene), approaching 75% of the theoretical maximum selectivity (50%). In contrast, the Pd/CNT catalyst predominantly produces 3-(3,4-dimethoxyphenyl)-1-propanol, and excessive side-chain saturation of monomers are not conducive to subsequent utilization processes. Moreover, the Pd/ZnNC catalyst achieves a conversion rate seven-fold higher than that of commercial catalysts Pd/C (5 wt%). Experimental characterization results demonstrate that the ZnO sites on carbon nanotubes facilitate the dispersion of Pd nanoparticles, resulting in a reduction in particle size. Furthermore, the synergistic effect between ZnO and Pd active sites promotes the selective catalytic formation of monomers containing unsaturated C=C bonds. The DFT calculations reveal that the Cγ-OH elimination is facilitated by Pd nanoparticles supported on ZnO, which reduces the reaction energy barrier and promotes the generation of propenyl-substituted monomers. The pathway enabled by Pd/ZnNC catalyst offers a great potential for lignin depolymerization into high-value products.
Degradation and Utilization of Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC): Challenges and Opportunities Toward a Circular Economy
Rui Huang, Jiaolong Meng, Xuefeng Jiang
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.10.010
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Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) poses persistent environmental and recycling challenges due to its high chlorine content, complex additives, and structural resistance to degradation. Recent research has shifted focus from traditional disposal methods toward chemically informed strategies that valorize PVC within the framework of a circular economy. This review systematically summarizes three emerging pathways for PVC transformation. The first involves catalytic deconstruction into small molecules such as chlorinated olefins, hydrocarbons, and oxygenates through thermal, photocatalytic, and electro-assisted processes. The second explores backbone-preserving reconstruction into functional materials including porous carbons, membranes, ion-conducting films, and vitrimer-type polymers by leveraging selective dechlorination and structural reprogramming. The third addresses the co-processing of PVC with mixed plastic wastes through synergistic catalytic systems that tolerate chlorine-rich streams and promote selective transformation. Across all pathways, emphasis is placed on structure–property correlations, chlorine management, additive compatibility, and downstream utility. Summary tables and schematic diagrams are included to compare system efficiencies, product selectivities, and application scopes. By integrating mechanistic understanding with materials innovation, this review highlights how PVC can be reimagined as a tunable molecular platform rather than a persistent pollutant.
Entropy-Driven Design of Multifunctional Electrocatalysts: Advances and Perspectives in High-Entropy Materials
Ning Wei, Sufeng Zhang, Xue Yao, Scott Renneckar
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.10.007
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High-entropy materials (HEMs) have attracted extensive attention in the field of electrocatalysis due to their high performance enabled by their multi-component, tunable structural characteristics and excellent stability. HEMs are usually composed of five or more metal elements, and have core advantages such as high configurational entropy, lattice distortion and multi-element synergistic effect, which provide new possibilities for composition regulation and performance optimization of catalysts. Especially at the nanoscale, HEMs show a larger specific surface area, abundant active sites and higher catalytic reaction efficiency, further expanding their application potential in electrochemical reactions. This paper systematically reviews the classification, structure construction and regulation strategies of HEMs, and focuses on their research progress in critical electrocatalytic reactions including water splitting (HER, OER), hydrogen oxidation (HOR), oxygen reduction (ORR), carbon dioxide reduction (CO2RR), nitrate reduction (NO3–RR) and electrooxidation of organics (EOO). In addition, the preparation methods of HEMs, the structure-performance relationship and the entropy regulation mechanism in the catalytic process are analyzed. Finally, this paper proposes the key challenges currently faced by HEMs in electrocatalytic applications and looks forward to their future development direction, providing a theoretical basis and design ideas for building a new generation of efficient and sustainable electrocatalysts.
Pearl-Necklace Structured Se-Doped Hollow Carbon Nanofibers for High-Capacity and Ultrastable Potassium Ion Storage
Yali Lu, Huanyu Liang, Xinyu Wang, Hui Zhang, Jing Shi, Weiqian Tian, Jingwei Chen, Yue Zhu, Minghua Huang, Huanlei Wang
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.10.008
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Carbon-based materials are promising anodes for potassium-ion batteries due to their natural abundance and structural stability. However, their practical application remains hindered by limited capacity and poor rate performance. Here, we report the design of selenium-doped hollow carbon nanofibers (SeHCF-x) with a unique pearl necklace-like morphology, synthesized via electrospinning in combination with a SiO2 templating strategy. The hollow architecture ensures intimate electrolyte/electrode contact, reduces K+ diffusion distances, and accommodates volume fluctuations during cycling. Selenium doping introduces abundant defects and active sites, lowers the K+ diffusion energy barrier, and enhances electronic conductivity. As a result, the optimized SeHCF electrode delivers a high reversible capacity of 470 mAh g-1 at 0.05 A g-1 and maintains 167 mAh g-1 at 5 A g-1 after 6000 cycles. Ex-situ analyses reveal a reversible Se/K2Se conversion mechanism that underpins its potassium storage capability. Density functional theory calculations show that selenium doping has a significant contribution to K adsorption and electronic conductivity. When assembled into a potassium-ion hybrid capacitor, the SeHCF anode achieves an energy density of 145 Wh kg-1 and retains 85 % of its capacity after 10000 cycles. This work offers key insights into selenium-doped carbon frameworks and highlights a viable pathway for designing high-performance hollow-structured electrodes in next-generation energy storage systems.
Structure–Activity Relationship in Periodate Activation by Fe-MOFs: Why MIL-101(Fe) Outperforms Other MIL-Series in Antibiotic Degradation
Ning Liu, Jingwen Xu, Yixuan Zhai, Ziyi Zhang, Yi Dang, Yusong Cao, Zhe Li, Wenyuan Huang, Xiaodong Zhang, Liang Tang
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.10.006
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Antibiotics are emerging pollutants that pose significant risks to environmental and human health. Periodate (PI)-based advanced oxidation processes have shown promise for their effective degradation. In this study, we systematically investigate the structure-activity relationship of four representative Fe-based metal-organic frameworks (Fe-MOFs)—MIL-101(Fe), MIL-88B(Fe), MIL-88A(Fe), and MIL-53(Fe)—as PI activators for tetracycline (TC) degradation. Among them, MIL-101(Fe) exhibited the highest catalytic performance, owing to its unique Fe3O-OH nodes and mesoporous architecture. The MIL-101(Fe)/PI system achieved 93.3% TC degradation and 55.9% mineralization rate within 60 minutes. Mechanistic studies combining scavenger quenching, sulfoxide probe transformation, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and X-ray absorption fine structure confirmed the generation of multiple reactive oxygen species, and high-valent Fe(IV)=O and O2·- played major roles in the tetracycline degradation process. Density functional theory calculations further revealed that MIL-101(Fe) and MIL-88B(Fe) effectively interact with PI to form Fe(III)-superoxide (Fe(III)-O-O·-), a key intermediate in Fe(IV)=O generation. In contrast, the adsorption energy of MIL-53 (Fe) and MIL-88A (Fe) was relatively weak, with fewer binding sites, resulting in poor performance. The synergy between Fe(III)-O-O·- formation and the pore accessibility of MIL-101(Fe) accounted for its superior catalytic efficiency. This work not only clarifies the structural factors governing PI activation in Fe-MOFs, but also proposes a mechanistically informed strategy for designing high-performance catalysts for antibiotic degradation.
Unraveling the regulation rules of vanadium-site cation substitution for Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode materials toward high energy density sodium-ion batteries
Yi-Meng Wu, Jing-Yu Wang, Hao-Tian Guo, Peng-Fei Wang, Zong-Lin Liu, Yan-Rong Zhu, Jie Shu, Ting-Feng Yi
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.10.009
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NASICON-type Na3V2(PO4)3 (NVP) materials are seen as highly promising cathode materials in the field of sodium-ion batteries due to their low cost, a solid three-dimensional skeleton and good theoretical capacity, as well as high ionic conductivity. Nevertheless, the problem of low intrinsic electronic conductivity and energy density has limited the practical application of the materials. To address this issue, the relevant research team has successfully achieved remarkable research results through unremitting exploration and practical innovation. In this work, the crystal structure, ion migration mechanism and sodium storage mechanism of NVP cathode materials are systematically reviewed, with a focus on summarizing the latest progress of V-site doping modification research, classifying and exploring V-site doping from the perspectives of electronic structure, lattice strain and entropy, and briefly describing the optimization mechanism of V-site doping on electrochemical performance. In addition, the challenges and prospects for the future development of NVP cathode materials are presented, which are believed to provide new thinking for the design and development of high-performance NVP cathode materials and contribute to the large-scale application of sodium-ion batteries.
High-Value Utilization of Waste Plastics: Transforming Plastic Polymers into Thin-Walled and Uniform Carbon Nanotubes via Catalytic Pyrolysis
Ning Cai, Siqian Jia, Kunpeng Sun, Jiahui Zhu, Chuanwen Zhao, Haiping Yang
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.10.004
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The high-value utilization of waste plastics plays a crucial role in mitigating plastic pollution. In this work, transition metals were selected as active species, while magnesium oxide, derived from the calcination of basic magnesium carbonate, served as the support material for the generation of thin-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs). The confined pore structure restricts the migration of reduced iron nanoparticles, promoting the nucleation and growth of small-diameter and thin-walled CNTs. The results show that over 10 wt.% carbon deposits were collected from various types of plastics. The CNTs generated from polyethylene exhibit a diameter of approximately 8 nm and a wall thickness of about 6 layers of graphite. Additionally, Ni-based and Co-based catalysts, polypropylene and polystyrene have also been studied and around 10 nm CNTs were produced. Moreover, this study further demonstrates that excessively high or low temperatures are detrimental to the growth of CNTs. To sum up, this work proposes a novel strategy for recycling waste plastics into smaller-diameters CNTs, offering significant potential for the high-value utilization of waste.
Boosting efficient C-C Coupling toward Electrocatalytic Acetate Synthesis from CO2 via Close Cu+/Ag Dual Active Sites
Ruifeng Wang, Yuchang Liu, Yandong Li, Yafen Kong, Qizhi Chen, Shuangliang Zhao
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.10.005
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Efficiency of C-C bond coupling in highly inert CO2 is relatively low, which severely limits its efficient conversion to acetate. Here, we successfully developed a highly stable NF@CoMn2O4@Cu2O-Ag bimetallic active site catalyst by anchoring Ag on the Cu2O surface. In this catalyst, the Co3+/Mn3+-Mn4+ removes excess electrons from the Cu+ sites via strong electronic interactions, preventing the reduction of Cu2O to metallic Cu0, which ensures the NF@CoMn2O4@Cu2O-Ag exhibits a high resistance to deactivation. The Cu+ active sites of NF@CoMn2O4@Cu2O-Ag efficiently electroreduce CO2 to the *COatop intermediate, while the Ag active sites efficiently electroreduce CO2 to the *CObridge intermediate. The proximity of Cu+/Ag bimetallic sites shortens the distance for C-C bond coupling between the *COatop and *CObridge intermediates, facilitating the efficient electrocatalytic coupling of CO2 to synthesize acetate. DFT analysis indicates that the ΔG required for C-C bond coupling on the short-distance Cu+/Ag bimetallic sites of NF@CoMn2O4@Cu2O-Ag is significantly lower than that of NF@CoMn2O4@Cu2O, enabling a high Faradaic efficiency of 64.97% for acetate production at -0.3 V vs. RHE. This study provides an effective strategy for the rational design of synergistic catalysis between heterometallic catalytic sites to efficiently achieve C-C coupling for the synthesis of C2+ products.
Peroxymonosulfate activation on the S-scheme heterojunction Bi4O5I2/TiO2 photoanode of a photocatalytic fuel cell for degradation of tetracyclines with green power generation
Huizhong Wu, Ruiheng Liang, Yujie Chen, Xiuwu Zhang, Jingyang Liu, Zehua Xia, Ignasi Sirés, Minghua Zhou
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.10.002
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Photocatalytic fuel cells (PFC) are green devices for simultaneous contaminant degradation and power generation. However, their performance is still limited due to the inefficient light capture and poor charge transfer at photoanodes. Here, a PFC has been successfully developed using a Bi4O5I2/TiO2 nanotube arrays (NTAs) S-scheme heterojunction as the photoanode, incorporating peroxymonosulfate (PMS) as synergistic precursor of reactive oxygen species (ROS). A 17-fold increase in rate constant for the degradation of tetracycline (TC) and 6.6-fold increase in maximum power generation was attained in comparison with the TiO2/light PFC system. A systematic analysis elucidating PMS-mediated regulation of ROS generation and electron transfer was performed. The photocatalytic mechanism, dominated by non-radical 1O2 and photogenerated holes (h+), led to a maximum photocurrent density (0.091 mA cm-2) and output power (0.99 mW cm-2). The current work demonstrates the great robustness of heterojunction-based PFC as new self-powered water decontamination systems.
Advancements in synthesis strategies and environmental application of FAU-type zeolite: Bibliometric-driven review
Lin Chen, Bingqing Xu, Siying Wang, Shan Ren, Fan Yang, Wei Zhang, Yuanpei Lan, Chaoyi Chen, Junqi Li, Yanbing Su
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.10.003
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FAU zeolites have emerged as multifunctional materials with broad applications in catalysis and adsorption, owing to their hierarchical pore architectures, elevated specific surface areas, and adjustable extra-framework cationic sites. This review provides a critical overview of recent advances in FAU zeolite research with emphasis on their roles in environmental pollutant mitigation. A bibliometric analysis was performed to ascertain worldwide research trends, cooperation networks, and principal theme areas. Strategies for synthesis and functionalization, including crystallization pathways, one-pot methods, and post-synthetic modifications, were systematically evaluated for their capacity to tailor structural and physicochemical properties. Environmental applications were discussed in detail, particularly in heavy metal extraction, CO2 capture, and catalytic NOx reduction. Despite these advances, challenges persisted, notably restricted chemical stability under extreme pH conditions, scalability obstacle from laboratory to industrial production, and the necessity for enhanced catalytic efficiency, were emphasized. By integrating fundamental understanding with application-oriented perspectives, this review identifies existing knowledge gaps and delineates future directions for the rational design of FAU zeolites toward sustainable environmental remediation.
Ionic Liquids for olefin extractive separation from fluid catalytic cracking naphtha: Thermodynamics and molecular mechanisms
Wen-Hai Zhang, Jian Gao, Yue Zhang, Christoph Held, Gangqiang Yu, Hong Meng
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.09.005
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This study investigates the extractive separation of olefins from fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) naphtha using ionic liquids (ILs), from the perspectives of molecular thermodynamics and separation mechanisms. Initially, a representative binary mixture of benzene and 1-hexene was employed to screen various ILs for their separation performance, based on COSMO-RS calculations combined with relevant physicochemical property evaluations. Consequently, 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium thiocyanate ([EMIM][SCN]) was identified as the most promising extractant. Subsequently, the liquid-liquid equilibrium (LLE) behavior of ternary systems involving the selected IL and the benchmark solvent sulfolane (SUL) was quantitatively predicted using the Perturbed-Chain Statistical Associating Fluid Theory (PC-SAFT). In this modeling framework, ILs were treated as electrically neutral components due to the significant ion-pair electrostatic interactions in non-aqueous media, thus, the IL-related mixed systems are named as “complex strong electrostatic-hydrogen bonding organic systems”. Finally, quantum chemical (QC) calculations were conducted to elucidate the underlying molecular-level separation mechanism. The results indicate that [EMIM][SCN] exhibits significantly stronger intermolecular interactions with the organic components than SUL, thus accounting for its superior extraction performance. These findings provide valuable insights for the rational design of task-specific ILs for efficient olefin separation in petroleum refining processes.
Defect Engineering of TiO2 for Efficient Photocatalytic Transfer Hydrogenation with Palladium as Cocatalyst and Water as a Hydrogen Source
En Zhao, Jingyuan Su, Hehe Fan, Bing Nan, Lina Li, Haifeng Qi, Weiwei Fang, Wenjun Zhang, Zupeng Chen
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.09.008
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Photocatalytic transfer hydrogenation using water as the proton source has emerged as an attractive and green approach for the catalytic reduction of unsaturated bonds. Herein, we report an oxygen-defective TiO2-supported palladium catalyst (Pd-TiO2-Ov) for efficient photocatalytic water-donating transfer hydrogenation of anethole towards 4-n-propylanisole in a high yield of 99.9%, which is significantly higher compared to the pristine TiO2-supported palladium catalyst (Pd-TiO2, 74%). The enhanced performance is ascribed to the presence of oxygen vacancies, which facilitate light absorption and suppress the recombination of photogenerated electron-hole pairs. Furthermore, the Pd-TiO2-Ov is versatile in hydrogenating various alkene substrates including those with hydroxyl, ether, fluoride, and chloride functional groups in full conversion, thus offering a green method for transfer hydrogenation of alkenes. This study provides new insights and advances in current hydrogenation technology with water as the proton source.
Carbon nitride-based single-molecular Van der Waals heterojunction for selective photocatalytic CO2 reduction to CO
Hongjun Dong, Chunhong Qu, Jiaming Li, Deping Wang, Min Zhang, Zuoyi Liu, Liqiu Zhang, Chunmei Li
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.09.004
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Single-molecular heterojunctions have demonstrated significant application potential in the fields of photocatalysis due to prominent photoelectric properties, while the charge transfer behavior still need to be further discussed. In this work, a fresh single-molecular Van der Waals heterojunction is fabricated through self-assembly of dibromo(1,10-phenanthroline-κN1,κN10)nickel (NiphenBr) molecules on the surface PCN nanosheets, which dramatically boosts the performance of selective photocatalytic CO2 reduction to CO. This unique assembled architecture effectively regulates electronic band structure and promotes the interfacial transfer and separation of photogenerated carriers owing to the π-π coupling effect between NiphenBr and PCN. Meanwhile, the single-molecular dispersed NiphenBr molecules also prevent their aggregation on PCN under the strong π-π interaction, and further provide abundant single-atom active sites for CO2 reduction reaction. Therefore, the average rate of photocatalytic reduction of CO2 to CO for the optimal NiphenBr/PCN-1 sample reaches 5.46 and 2.73 times that of PCN and NiphenBr, respectively. This work opens a new avenue for the single-molecular heterojunction in the application of photocatalytic reactions.
CO2 Utilization and Fixation in Biomass-Derived Furanics Conversion: Thermochemical and Electrochemical Pathways
Saeideh Gharouni Fattah, Sabah Karimi, Shaoyu Yuan, Zheng Li, Mohammad Jalal Zohuriaan-Mehr, Lu Lin, Xianhai Zeng, Buxing Han
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.09.011
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Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the main greenhouse gas (GHG) released by human activities. The substitution of fossil resources by biomass as a bio-renewable resource, has significant potential to reduce GHG emissions. The approach to biomass, as the only true full-scale alternative to fossil resources, is progressing rapidly. Converting biomass into furanic compounds, as versatile platform chemicals for synthesizing a wide range of bio-based products is the cornerstone of sustainable technologies. The extensive body of this review combines the biomass valorization to furanic compounds by CO2 utilization and furanic compounds conversion by CO2 fixation. These processes can be strategically applied through both 'thermochemical' and 'electrochemical' pathways, by utilizing CO2 from the atmosphere or industrial emission point and returning it to the natural carbon cycle. In the thermochemical pathway CO2 acts as a carbon source (carboxylation and polymerization) or active reaction assistant in the biomass conversion (CO2-assisted conversion), without altering its oxidation state, facilitating the synthesis of valuable products and polymers. Conversely, in the electrochemical pathway, CO2 can be used as a carbon source (electrocarboxylation) to give the corresponding carboxylic acid, or it can undergo reduction, yielding methanol, carbon monoxide (CO), formic acid, and analogous compounds, while on the other side, furanic compounds undergo oxidation yielding high-value-added chemicals. Finally, potential future research directions are suggested to promote CO2 utilization and fixation in the valorization of biomass-derived furanic compounds, and challenges facing further research are highlighted.
Enhancing High Volumetric Energy Density of Supercapacitors through Diatomic Reconstruction of Layered Double Hydroxides
Rong Zheng, Lin Sun, Yi Guo, Yu Liu, Qingjun Yang, Wei Zhang, Yulong Ying, Weidong Shi
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.09.001
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Double atom regulation and synergistic phosphorus doping and oxygen vacancy (OV) engineering are effective strategies for optimizing the electronic structure of layered double hydroxides (LDHs). In this study, a self-supporting P-doped OV-(Co0.5Ni0.5)3V2O8 electrode with interpenetrating carbon nanotube networks was synthesized via cation/anion co-reconstruction. Leveraging vanadium's high valence states, the dual-atom system creates a microporous architecture that enables precise charge redistribution, enhancing both electrical conductivity and OH- adsorption capacity. Density functional theory confirms that P-OV synergy reduces charge transfer resistance while optimizing ion diffusion pathways and charge storage kinetics. The optimized electrode achieves outstanding performance: 3807.9 F cm-3 volumetric capacitance at 1 A g-1 and exceptional cycling stability (100% capacity retention over 10000 cycles). Assembled asymmetric supercapacitors deliver 158.1 Wh L-1 energy density at 992 W L-1 power density, surpassing most reported LDH-based devices. This dual-atom charge redistribution mechanism establishes a universal paradigm for designing high-capacity electrodes, addressing critical challenges in energy storage materials through simultaneous electronic structure modulation and microstructural stabilization.
Efficient cyclohexane dehydrogenation over Pt/B-ZrO2 for H2 production
Lipeng Guo, Jihui Yao, Xiaojun Bao, Haibo Zhu
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.09.010
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The efficient storage and release of H2 are pivotal for the advancement of hydrogen energy technologies. Cyclohexane, as a promising liquid organic hydrogen carrier (LOHC), provides a safe and practical solution for H2 storage. However, the performance limitations of dehydrogenation catalysts have hindered the rapid development of LOHC technology. In this study, we successfully developed boron-modified Pt/ZrO2 catalysts, which exhibit exceptional catalytic performance in cyclohexane dehydrogenation. The optimal boron content is determined to be 0.5 wt.%, with the Pt/0.5B-ZrO2 catalyst achieving high turnover frequency (TOF) of 10,627.3 molH2·molPt-1·h-1 and benzene selectivity of 99% at 295 °C. The catalyst also demonstrates H2 evolution rate of 908 mmol·gPt-1·min-1 and low deactivation rate of 0.0043 h-1. Remarkably, the catalyst displays outstanding stability and regeneration performance, maintaining its activity without significant loss during a 60-hour dehydrogenation reaction and retaining a cyclohexane conversion of 77.2% after 10 consecutive cycles. Comprehensive characterization techniques, including XPS, CO-FTIR, NH3-TPD, H2-TPD, Benzene-TPD, and Py-IR, reveals that boron modification reduces the electron density of Pt, generating abundant electron-deficient Pt atoms. These electron-deficient Pt atoms enhances H2 adsorption and accelerated benzene desorption, effectively preventing coke formation from deep benzene dehydrogenation, which is responsible for the high catalytic performance of the Pt/0.5B-ZrO2 catalyst. These findings offer a valuable strategy for optimizing dehydrogenation catalysts in liquid organic hydrogen carrier (LOHC) technologies, addressing a critical bottleneck in the development of this essential energy storage solution.
Synergistic Brønsted and Lewis Acid Sites for Selective Catalytic Valorization of Isopropanol from VOC Streams
Honghong Zhang, Zhiwei Wang, Lu Wei, Zhiquan Hou, Yuxi Liu, Hongxing Dai, Zhenxia Zhao, Jiguang Deng
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.09.003
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Directional catalytic transformation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into value-added chemicals represents a more sustainable strategy than complete mineralization, as it simultaneously mitigates environmental pollution and reduces carbon emissions. The primary challenge in achieving multifunctional olefin production from alcohol-type VOCs is the lack of mechanistic clarity, which hinders the targeted synthesis of selective catalysts. Herein, we developed W-Ti hybrid metal oxide catalysts (WTiOx) with active Ti-O-W interfaces via a one-step hydrothermal synthesis and demonstrated their effectiveness for isopropanol conversion processes. Remarkably, WTiOx-500 achieved 99.8% isopropanol conversion and 99.3% propylene yield at 140 °C, significantly outperforming TiO2 (98.4% yield at 180 °C) and WO3 (90.5% yield at 240 °C). WTiOx-500 also displayed higher thermal stability, with isopropanol conversion and propylene yield decreasing by 1.0% and 1.6% after 35 h on-stream reaction. Although impurities (e.g., CO2, HCl, SO2) caused partial deactivation of WTiOx-500, oxygen treatment regenerated the catalyst. A series of characterization techniques indicated that the controlled calcination temperature promoted the formation of an optimal Ti-O-W interface in WTiOx-500 through W substitution into the TiO2 lattice and WO3-TiO2 surface interaction, where W species effectively tuned the electronic structure. This configuration endowed WTiOx-500 with moderate acidity of Brønsted (-OH) and Lewis (Ti4+/W6+) acid sites, which synergistically facilitated charge transfer between isopropanol and catalyst, accelerated C-O bond cleavage during dehydration. This work provides mechanistic insights into isopropanol dehydration and demonstrates a potential approach for VOC valorization.
High-valent cobalt-oxo species mediated selective oxidation of glucose to chemicals in photocatalytic Fenton-like system
Tianliang Xia, Chengxu Wang, Xinyu Bai, Meiting Ju, Hengli Qian, Ruite Lai, Chao Xie, Guanjie Yu, Yao Tang, Fei Qu, Chaojie Zhang, Shuwen Zhou, Haijiao Xie, Shaolan Song, Qidong Hou
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.08.001
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Peroxymonosulfate (PMS)-based Fenton-like technologies have been increasingly employed in the upgrading of biomass, but they are commonly limited by the trade-off between conversion and selectivity due to the short lifetime of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and uncontrollable oxidation pathways. Herein, we show that single-atom Co supported on carbon nitride enables the high-valent-oxo cobalt species (Co(IV)=O) mediated oxidation of glucose into value-added products in acetonitrile. This photocatalytic Fenton-like system achieved an overall selectivity of gluconic acid, glucaric acid, arabinose, and formic acid up to 90.3% at glucose conversion of 69.6%, outperforming most of previously reported catalytic systems. The small amount (0.72 wt%) of single-atom Co could not only elevate the optical absorption and the efficiency of photo-generated carriers separation but also induce the efficient generation of Co(IV)=O with reduced ROS to enable efficient and selective oxidation. These findings prove the great promise of high-valent metal-oxo species in biomass conversions.
The Need to Consider Regional Supply Chains and Water Usage in H2-Steel Transition
Peng Peng, Tae Lim, Fabian Rosner, Hanna Breunig, Prakash Rao, Arman Shehabi
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.08.002
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The iron and steel industry is one of the largest contributors to U.S. and global greenhouse gas emissions. Hydrogen can act as a promising reducing agent and clean energy carrier to decarbonize this sector, and has received significant attention in terms of process modelling, techno-economic analysis, and life cycle assessment in recent years. Policy incentives, hydrogen storage and transportation, and water stress levels are key factors that require significantly more consideration in order to realize hydrogen’s potential to decarbonize this industry. This review demonstrates the need for a systematic understanding and critical assessment of these areas, and their profound impacts on the decarbonization of the iron and steel sector. Furthermore, hydrogen and water supply face competition from other hard-to-decarbonize sectors, which should be considered on national and regional levels. Lastly, future research should also consider the impact of other environmental factors and hydrogen leak when deploying hydrogen at scale for industrial decarbonization.
Selective oxidation of high-concentration 5-hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5-furan dicarboxylic acid at room temperature in water by synergic electronic effect of bimetallic RuCo/NC catalyst
Lihua Du, Conghao Ku, Mengmeng Feng, Junjie Lan, Jeunghee Park, Ik Seon Kwon, Lingzhao Kong, Weiran Yang
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.07.008
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Bio-based 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) has the potential to replace petroleum-based terephthalic acid for the synthesis of high-performance polyester materials, demonstrating broad application prospects. Its primary preparation method involves the selective oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). However, the industrial process is limited by low HMF concentration during the reaction due to the formation of humus resulting from HMF instability especially in high concentration. In this study, a RuCo/NC bimetallic catalyst was fabricated, which can effectively catalyze the selective oxidation of HMF to obtain FDCA at room temperature (25 °C). Side reactions caused by HMF instability were significantly reduced at room temperature, allowing for the application of high-concentration HMF (10 wt%) to achieve an excellent FDCA yield of 91.92% in water. Mechanism studies reveal that a synergistic electronic effect exists between two metals that electrons transfer from Co to Ru to increase the electron density on the surface of Ru nanoparticles, improving oxygen activation ability. Meanwhile, the electron-deficient Co further enhances the adsorption of HMF on the catalyst surface for better reactivity. This study realized the high-concentration HMF aerobic oxidation to FDCA at room temperature in water, paving the way for FDCA to serve as a sustainable substitute for terephthalic acid in polyester production.
CdS-Enzyme Composite Promotes Photobiocatalytic Conversion of Plastic-derived Lactate to Chiral Chemicals
Willy W.L. See, Phuc T.T. Nguyen, Heng Yih Tan, Jie Fu Jeff Zhou, Sie Shing Wong, Kang Zhou, Ning Yan
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.07.018
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The combination of photo- and bio-catalysis in one-pot enables sustainable, visible-light driven cascade reactions for the synthesis of value-added chiral chemicals under mild conditions. Despite the attractiveness of merging the redox capability of heterogeneous photocatalysts with the excellent enantioselectivity of enzymes, developing such reaction under one-pot conditions poses a challenge due to catalyst incompatibility. In this study, a cadmium sulfide (CdS)-enzyme composite was engineered for one-pot conversion of plastic-derived lactate into chiral compounds. By coating CdS onto alginate beads, its redox capability for the oxidation of lactate in water under visible light was preserved. The generated pyruvate subsequently underwent enantioselective transformation catalyzed by encapsulated enzymes within the beads, producing (R)-acetoin, L-alanine, or (R)-phenylacetylcarbinol. The core-shell structure of the CdS-enzyme composite protects the enzymes against radical attacks and also facilitates recycling, with 81% yield of (R)-acetoin achieved after four reaction cycles. Additionally, we demonstrated an upcycling process converting post-consumer polylactic acid cups into (R)-acetoin. This work introduces a novel approach for integrating photocatalysts and enzymes to synthesize chiral chemicals from end-of-life plastics.
Mechanistic insights into the role of N/O-doped biochar in enhanced phenolics production during biomass pyrolysis
Zihang Zhang, Honghui Li, Jinlong Liu, Jusheng Hu, Shurong Wang
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.07.017
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Phenolic compounds are vital chemicals that can be converted into high-density jet fuel components, such as aromatic hydrocarbons or cycloalkanes. Pyrolysis of biomass waste for producing high-value phenolic compounds offers a sustainable approach to waste management and energy conversion. While N/O-doped biochar has demonstrated potential in enhancing phenolics production, its application faces challenges such as complex preparation, high activation temperatures, and unclear catalytic mechanisms. This study addresses these issues by developing a single-step sodium amide (NaNH2) activation method at mild temperatures (<500℃) to produce N/O-doped biochar with optimized catalytic properties. Characterization identified graphitic-N (-GN) and oxidized-N (-ON) configurations, along with aldehyde-O (-CHO) and carboxyl-O (-COOH) groups, as key active sites that enhance catalytic performance. Experimentally, the N/O-doped biochar achieved a phenolics yield of 57.87% at an activation temperature of 400℃, representing a 19.18% increase over non-catalytic conditions. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations further elucidated the role of N and O groups, showing that -GN and -ON in N groups and -CHO and -COOH in O groups lower energy barriers in radical-induced demethoxylation which promotes phenolic product formation. Machine learning analysis identified nucleophilicity and local softness as critical descriptors, indicating that these configurations effectively modulate electron density at active sites. These findings provide a comprehensive mechanistic understanding of how specific N and O functional groups in biochar enhance catalytic efficiency in targeted phenolic production.
Manipulating and unveiling contributions of the reactive oxygen species dramatically promote selective photo-oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural into 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid in aqueous solution
Runqing Xiao, Qingmao Yang, Yanjie Li, Wei Zhang, Gang Xiao, Chun Shen
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.07.014
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Achieving high selectivity to 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) in the photocatalytic oxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) in aqueous solution advocates the principle of green and sustainable chemistry, but still remains a significant challenge. Herein, manipulating the reactive oxygen species (ROS) has been realized and dramatically promotes the selective photocatalytic oxidation of HMF in aqueous solution. High FDCA yield of 98.6% has been achieved after 3 hours of visible light irradiation over the as-prepared FeOx-Au/TiO2 catalyst, being one of the leading photocatalytic performances. Furthermore, satisfactory FDCA yields of higher than 80% could be realized even in the outdoor environment under natural sunlight irradiation, regardless of sunny or cloudy weather. A combination study including physical characterization, kinetic analysis, radical trapping experiments and density functional theory calculations unveils the rate-determining step (oxidation of hydroxyl group) and respective contributions of the generated ROS (1O2 and·O2-) in each step of the entire reaction network. The present work would push ahead the understanding of HMF photocatalytic oxidation and contribute to the rational design of high-performance photocatalysts.
Enhancing Carbonization of Microcrystalline Cellulose through Ball Milling under Decoupled Temperature and Pressure Hydrothermal Conditions
Kaile Li, Jiahui Hu, Zhiqiang Xu, Shijie Yu, Qinghai Li, Yanguo Zhang, Hui Zhou
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.07.016
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Hydrothermal treatment of cellulose is a promising green route for bioenergy and biochemical production, yet requiring investigations of the mechanisms. In this study, the effects of cellulose crystallinity and decoupled temperature and pressure conditions on cellulose conversion and product distribution were investigated. Microcrystalline cellulose was ball-milled for varying durations, leading to a reduction in crystallinity, with 4 h of milling sufficient to achieve near-complete amorphization. Unlike concurrent recrystallization and hydrolysis observed under autogenous pressure, decoupled conditions significantly accelerated hydrolysis of cellulose. Notably, lower crystallinity cellulose exhibited significant improvements in glucose and 5-HMF yields, with 4-hour ball milling showing optimal performance among all samples. Furthermore, carbon sub-micron spheres were largely produced, which were confirmed via PTFE encapsulation experiments to primarily consist of secondary char deriving from re- polymerization and condensation reactions of the liquid phase. Overall, this study demonstrates that lower crystallinity not only facilitates hydrolysis but also accelerates the carbonization processes under decoupled pressure conditions, highlighting its potential for efficient biomass conversion into valuable products.
Acetone-Mediated Glucose Isomerization over a ZrO2-NC Composite Catalyst
Mi Gao, Hongquan Fu, Wenhua Zhang, Zhicheng Jiang, Bi Shi
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.07.012
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The agglomeration-prone properties of metal oxide catalysts limit their catalytic efficiency in the isomerization of glucose to fructose. Herein, the hierarchical structure and abundant coordination groups of collagen fibers were used to anchor Zr4+, and a highly dispersed ZrO2-nitrogen-doped carbon (ZrO2-NC) composite catalyst was subsequently fabricated by calcination. For the catalytic glucose-to-fructose isomerization over ZrO2-NC, fructose was obtained in 41.3% yield and 85.3% selectivity in a water-acetone solvent at 120 ℃ for 10 min. The electron-deficient environment of ZrO2 surface during charge transfer from ZrO2-to-NC layer benefited to preferentially adsorb glucose, which accelerated glucose isomerization and fructose desorption. The amphoteric catalyst triggered both proton transfer on the Bronsted base sites and the intramolecular hydride shift of glucose on the Lewis acid sites of ZrO2-NC in the mixed solvent. The latter isomerization mechanism depended on the presence of acetone, which lowered the energy barrier and increased fructose yield.
Boosting redox kinetics in CoS/Ti3C2 heterostructure via interfacial charge redistribution for high-energy-density supercapacitors
Yu Liu, Mengjie Pan, Mengqin Gong, Huachen Lin, Yulong Ying, Longhua Li, Hong Jia
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.07.015
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Supercapacitors are indispensable for next-generation energy storage, achieving high energy density and long-term durability remains a formidable challenge. Conventional CoS suffers from poor conductivity, while Ti3C2 faces severe restacking. Herein, we report a novel synthesis strategy that integrates metal-organic framework (MOF) growth with electrostatic self-assembly to construct heterojunction of CoS nanotubes coated with ultrathin Ti3C2 nanofilms. Material characterization via SEM, TEM, XRD, and XPS systematically confirms the heterostructure formation, and chemical composition. This rational design synergistically leverages CoS high pseudocapacitance and Ti3C2 metallic conductivity while the heterostructure mitigates restacking, enhances charge transfer, and stabilizes interfacial interactions. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal strengthened OH- adsorption at the Co-Ti interface (Ead = 1.106 eV). Consequently, the CoS/Ti3C2@CC delivers a remarkable specific capacitance of 1034.21 F g-1 at 1 A g-1. Assembled into a supercapacitor, CoS/Ti3C2@CC//AC achieves a high energy density of 74.22 Wh kg-1 at 800 W kg-1, maintaining 89.13% initial capacitance after 10,000 cycles. Significantly, it exhibits a remarkably low leakage current (0.23 μA) and ultra-prolonged voltage retention (47.14% after 120 h), underscoring exceptional durability. This work pioneers a rational heterostructure engineering strategy by integrating MOF-derived architectures with conductive MXene nanofilms, offering critical insights for the development of ultradurable supercapacitor.
Harnessing tunable lignin-based carbon quantum dots for sustainable water purification
Xinyan Hou, Pengfei Zhou, Jun Guo, Shenao Yuan, Shiman Chen, Heyu Chen, Xiao Xiao, Jikun Xu, Feng Peng
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.07.011
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Developing on-demand biomass valorization represents an ideal path to alleviate the double burden of sustainable energy-environment future, yet exploring tunable lignin-first chemistry to accomplish multifunctional water purification remains elusive. Herein, we report a versatile solvent-fractionation to construct heteroatom-doped multicolor lignin carbon quantum dots (CQDs) with the functions of bimodule pollutant sensing, metaL-ionic visualization, and photocatalytic antibiotic dissociation. With the aid of oxidation cleavage and biphasic extraction, the underlying lignin features of molecular weight and functional linkages influence the quantum size and core-surface state of CQDs conferring the unique opticaL-structure-performance. The N, S co-doped blue-emitting CQDs via light-quenching offers the selective identification of Fe3+-ions in a broad response range with acceptable limit of detection. The addition of L-cysteine can efficiently restore the fluorescence of CQDs by forming a stable Fe3+-L-cys complex. The green-emissive CQDs is facilely embedded into cellulose hydrogel to directly visualize the presence of metaL-ions. A red-CQDs modified ternary ZnIn2S4 (ZIS) composite is fabricated to achieve photocatalytic antibiotic removal with an efficiency of ~85%. The excellent photo-generated electron and storage capabilities of CQDs improve the light-capturing, electron conduction, and charge carriers separation of ZIS. The reactive species are of importance to photocatalytic tetracycline oxidation, wherein the electron holes (h+) function as the main contributor followed by ·O2-, 1O2 and ·OH. The directly interfacial electron escaping-shuttling with the help of optimized electronic and energy-band structures is confirmed via electrochemical test and theoretical computation. We anticipate that the present work not only sheds a substantial light to manipulate polychromatic lignin-based CQDs via a tailored solvent-engineering, but also presents an emerging green route of emphasizing biomass-water nexus.
Ultrasonic-enhanced Cu(I)/Cu(II) nanointerfaces for sustainable ozone activation in green aluminum production:atomic-level catalysis of organic waste degradation
Jianfeng Ran, Xu Sun, Jiaping Zhao, Shaoshuai Wei, Haisheng Duan, Ying Chen, Libo Zhang, Shaohua Yin
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.07.007
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The accumulation of refractory organics in Bayer liquor (pH 14.4) critically compromises aluminum production efficiency and product quality, necessitating sustainable remediation strategies. Herein, we develop an ultrasonic-driven catalytic ozonation system with dynamically reconstructed CuO/Cu2O heterointerfaces, achieving unprecedented efficiency in extreme alkaline wastewater treatment. Atomic-scale interface engineering endows the catalyst with hydrophilicity (contact angle:6.1°) and 3.8-4.3 times higher oxygen vacancy density compared to single-phase catalysts. These properties facilitate efficient interfacial interactions with Bayer liquor and enable superior ozone activation through synergistic Cu(I)/Cu(II) redox cycling across the heterointerface. This interfacial synergy reduces ozone adsorption energy from 5.46 eV (Cu2O) to 1.48 eV, driving reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation via low-energy pathways. Under optimized conditions, the system achieves 57.82% TOC removal within 1.5 h with 2.3-fold faster kinetics than ozone- alone processes, while improving energy efficiency by 1.82-3.22 times per kWh over conventional thermal oxidation. Remarkable stability is demonstrated through 80.21% activity retention after 6 cycles, attributed to surface energy minimization (0.61 J/m2), alongside 67.91% hydroxyl radical (·OH)-mediated degradation confirmed by quenching tests. In XPS, EEMs analysis, and ECOSAR modeling further elucidate the surface reconstruction mechanism and intermediate toxicity reduction. This work establishes an atomic interface design paradigm that bridges catalytic innovation with green metallurgy applications, offering a sustainable solution for industrial wastewater remediation aligned with circular economy principles.
Grafting Sulfonated Triptycene-Based Hypercrosslinked Polymers onto Bi2WO6 for Enhanced Adsorption and Photoelimination of Antibiotics
Yingxue Zhang, Wanjun Xu, Xiao Yang, Shihong Dong, Najun Li, Qingfeng Xu, Hua Li, Jianmei Lu, Dongyun Chen
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.07.004
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Antibiotics, as an emerging pollutant due to their extensive use and difficulty in biodegradation, can cause harm to health through bioaccumulation. To address this, various photocatalysts have been developed for rapid antibiotic removal. However, their low concentrations limit mass transfer efficiency, resulting in suboptimal performance. Adsorption is crucial for enhancing photocatalytic efficiency. In this study, a series of binary heterojunction catalysts (x% BWO@STHP) were synthesized, consisting of Bi2WO6 (BWO) grafted with sulfonated triptycene-based hypercrosslinked polymer (STHP). The high specific surface area of STHP, combined with π-π conjugation and ionic interactions with antibiotics, significantly enhances adsorption capacity. This facilitates effective contact between low-concentration pollutants in aqueous solutions and the active sites of the catalyst. The formation of a Z-scheme heterojunction between BWO and STHP facilitates photogenerated charge separation, and further significantly improves photocatalytic degradation performance. Specifically, the 20% BWO@STHP catalyst achieved rapid adsorption equilibrium for oxytetracycline (OTC), doxycycline (DOX), and tetracycline (TC) within 2 min and completely degraded them after 15 min of irradiation, compared to pristine BWO, the photocatalytic reaction rate constants are significantly increased, being 9.69 times higher for OTC and 13.45 times higher for DOX. The catalyst exhibits excellent reusability and holds promising potential for practical applications.
Cu doping induced lattice distortion and oxygen vacancy formation in PbBiO2Br:Band structure modulation enhances photocatalytic nitrogen fixation and pollutant degradation performance
Shude Yuan, Yekang Zheng, Yuxin Chu, Chuanqi Xia, Ruoyu Dong, Jiating Xu, Botao Teng, Ying Wu, Yiming He
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.07.005
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Photocatalytic nitrogen fixation has emerged as a sustainable alternative for ammonia synthesis, playing a crucial role in alleviating energy shortages and environmental pollution. In this study, PbBiO2Br was applied to photocatalytic nitrogen fixation for the first time, and its photocatalytic performance was effectively enhanced through Cu doping. The catalyst was synthesized via a simple reduction method, and its morphology, structure, and physicochemical properties were systematically investigated using various characterization techniques and density functional theory calculations. The results revealed that the incorporation of Cu2+ partially replaced Pb2+, inducing lattice distortion in PbBiO2Br, promoting the formation of oxygen vacancies, and modifying its electronic band structure. Specifically, Cu doping led to a slight bandgap narrowing, a reduction in work function, and a significant upward shift in the conduction band position. These changes enhanced light absorption, facilitated charge carrier migration and separation, and improved the reduction ability of photogenerated electrons. Moreover, Cu doping promoted N2 adsorption and activation. Consequently, the photocatalytic nitrogen fixation performance of Cu- doped PbBiO2Br was significantly enhanced, achieving an optimal nitrogen fixation rate of 293 μmol L-1 g-1 h-1, which is 3.6 times higher than that of pristine PbBiO2Br. Additionally, Cu- PbBiO2Br also showed good activity in the photocatalytic degradation of RhB, with a degradation rate 4.6 times higher than that of PbBiO2Br. This work offers new insights into the application of PbBiO2Br in photocatalytic nitrogen fixation and offers valuable guidance for the development of highly efficient nitrogen fixation materials in the future.
Interpretable machine learning analysis on CO2 adsorption and separation capacity of biochar under multi-scenario conditions
Jialiang Dong, Ruikun Wang, Yulong Xie, Fuyan Gao, ShiTeng Tan, Zhenghui Zhao, Qianqian Yin, Eric J. Hu
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.07.001
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Biochar has been widely recognized as a promising solid CO2 adsorbent with economic and ecological benefits. Industrial CO2 emissions originate from diverse sources, while the pore structure and chemical functional groups of biochar exhibit varying degrees of influence on CO2 adsorption and separation performance under different adsorption conditions. Therefore, exploring the matching relationship between the physicochemical properties of biochar and its adsorption and separation performance at different adsorption conditions is essential for the development and optimization of carbon-based adsorbents. This study selected the high-performance extreme gradient boosting (XGB) algorithm from various algorithms and utilized it to develop CO2, N2, CH4 adsorption prediction models. Based on this, coupled prediction models were developed for CO2/N2 and CO2/CH4 adsorption selectivity. Furthermore, feature importance and partial dependence analysis were performed using SHAP values. The results indicate that during CO2 adsorption, the influence of the pore structure of biochar outweighs that of its chemical composition. Specifically, the pore structure of 0.4-0.6 nm is the most important property influencing CO2 adsorption at low and medium pressure (0-0.6 bar), and the pore structure of 0.6-0.8 nm, as well as the specific surface area contribute the most at high pressure (0.6-1 bar). During CO2 selective separation, the CO2/N2 mixture is primarily separated through the selective adsorption of CO2 by nitrogen functional groups. In contrast, for CO2/CH4 mixtures, pore structure <1 nm plays a more critical role in determining adsorption selectivity. In addition, molecular simulation studies further revealed the adsorption filling mechanisms of CO2 molecules within different pore sizes and functional groups. Finally, nitrogen-doped biochar was synthesized using de-alkalize lignin as the precursor, KOH as the activating agent, and urea as the nitrogen dopant. CO2, N2, and CH4 isothermal adsorption experiments were conducted, and the experimental results confirmed that the developed prediction models exhibit high accuracy (R2>0.9).
Cutting-edge aminated conjugated microporous poly(aniline)s enabled highperformance membrane for seawater uranium extraction
Xiaoxia Ye, Bingqing Huang, Xueying Chen, Yaping Wang, Zhihong Zheng, Yifan Liu, Yuancai Lv, Chunxiang Lin, Jian Huang, Jie Chen
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.06.005
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The extraction of uranium from seawater via membrane adsorption is a promising strategy for ensuring a long-term supply of uranium and the sustainability of nuclear energy. However, this approach has been hindered by the longstanding challenge of identifying sustainable membrane materials. In response, we propose a prototypal hybridization strategy to design a novel series of conjugated microporous polymer (CMPO)@collagen fiber membrane (COLM), as decorated with multiple functional groups through an amination. These sustainable and low-cost membrane materials allow a rapid and high-affinity kinetic to capture 90% of the uranium in just 30 min from 50 ppm with a high selectivity of Kd > 105 mL·g-1. They also afford a robustly reusable adsorption capacity as high as 345 mg·g-1 that could harvest 1.61 mg·g-1 of uranium in a short 7-day real marine engineering in Fujian Province, even though suffered from very low uranium concentration of 3.29 µg·L-1 and tough influence of salts such as 10.77 g·L-1 of Na+, 1.75 µg·L-1of VO3-etc in the rough seas. The structural evidence from both experimental and theoretical studies confirmed the formation of favorable chelating motifs from the amino group on CMPN, and the intensification by the synergistic effect from the size-sieving action of CMPN and the capillary inflow effect of COLM.
Enhancing C-N bond formation in amine carbonylation through dual hydrogen bonding catalysis under mild reaction conditions
Xiang Hui, Jianhui Shi, Jiajun Zhang, Yan Cao, Huiquan Li, Peng He, Liguo Wang
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.05.010
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The carbonylation of amines offers a promising route for synthesizing N-substituted carbamates with high atom economy. However, conventional catalysts exhibit limited catalytic efficiency, and the underlying proton transfer mechanism remains elusive. Herein, we reported a metal-free, roomtemperature strategy utilizing 1,5,7-triazabicyclo[4.4.0]dec-5-ene (TBD) as a dual hydrogen bond catalyst to synergistically activate propylamine (PA) and dimethyl carbonate (DMC). This green catalytic system achieves a 10-fold acceleration in reaction rate compared to other hydrogen bonding catalysts under mild conditions. This is enabled by dual hydrogen bonding of TBD with PA and DMC, which facilitates rapid proton transfer and stabilizes tetrahedral intermediates. Theoretical calculations confirm that the dual hydrogen bond system significantly lowers activation energy compared to single hydrogen bond analogs. Furthermore, it was revealed that the hydrogen bonding network within the product is the primary factor responsible for the sluggish reaction rate. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of a dual hydrogen bond system in accelerating the carbonylation of amines and provides a green route to access carbamates.
Advancing Battery Safety System: Introducing Eutectic Hydrated Salt Composite Phase Change Materials with Two Stage Thermal Storage Properties
Wensheng Yang, Zhubin Yao, Xiaoyu Zhou, Xinxi Li, Ya Mao, Wei Jia, Yuhang Wu, Weifu Xu, Rui Liang, Xiaozhou Liu, Lifan Yuan, Zhizhou Tan, Canbing Li
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.05.011
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To address the challenge of balancing thermal management and thermal runaway mitigation, it is crucial to explore effective methods for enhancing the safety of lithiumion battery systems. Herein, an innovative hydrated salt composite phase change material (HSCPCM) with dual phase transition temperature zones has been proposed. This HSCPCM, denoted as SDMA10, combines hydrophilic modified expanded graphite, an acrylic emulsion coating, and eutectic hydrated salts to achieve leakage prevention, enhanced thermal stability, cycling stability, and superior phase change behavior. Battery modules incorporating SDMA10 demonstrate significant thermal control capabilities. Specifically, the cylindrical battery modules with SDMA10 can maintain maximum operating temperatures below 55 °C at 4 C discharge rate, while prismatic battery modules can keep maximum operating temperatures below 65 °C at 2 C discharge rate. In extreme battery overheating conditions simulated using heating plates, SDMA10 effectively suppresses thermal propagation. Even when the central heating plate reaches 300 °C, the maximum temperature at the module edge heating plates remains below 85 °C. Further, compared to organic composite phase change materials (CPCMs), the battery module with SDMA10 can further reduce the peak thermal runaway temperature by 93 °C and delay the thermal runaway trigger time by 689 s, thereby significantly decreasing heat diffusion. Therefore, the designed HSCPCM integrates excellent latent heat storage and thermochemical storage capabilities, providing high thermal energy storage density within the thermal management and thermal runaway threshold temperature range. This research will offer a promising pathway for improving the thermal safety performance of battery packs in electric vehicle and other energy storage systems.
Bio-Inspired Amino Acid Promoted Nanofluidic Ion Transport and Energy Conversion in Free-Standing Layered Vermiculite-based Membranes
Ruohan Feng, Chaoran Zhang, Di Zhang, Fang Song
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.05.009
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Two-dimensional nanofluidic membranes have garnered considerable interest due to their potential for cost-effective osmotic energy harvesting. One promising approach to enhancing ion conductivity and selectivity is the incorporation of guest additives. However, the traditional host-guest configuration can undermine the structural integrity of nanochannels owing to the inconsistent size and shape of these additives. Drawing inspiration from the intricate design of biological protein channels, which utilize small amino acid molecules as guests, we have addressed this issue by incorporating glycine, a common amino acid, into a vermiculite membrane using a simple vacuum-assisted infiltration method. The resulting vermiculite-glycine membrane demonstrates 1.8 times greater ionic conductivity and twice the power density compared to pure vermiculite membranes. Analysis based on glycine content, coupled with spectroscopic examination, reveals that ion conductivity is linked to the distribution of glycine molecules across three specific sites within the membrane. This suggests that glycine molecules—whether confined in voids, adsorbed onto nanochannel surfaces, or intercalated within multilayered vermiculite nanoparticles—enhance nanofluidic ion transport by modulating surface and space charge density, as well as strengthening hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interactions, and steric effects. This work reveals the specific interactions between amino acids and vermiculite, offering a novel path for advancing nanofluidic composite membranes and highlighting critical considerations for the proposed strategy.
Multi-scale Nanofiber Filter-based TENG for Sustainable Enhanced PM0.3 Filtration and Self-powered Respiratory Monitoring
Mengtong Yi, Nan Lu, Yukui Gou, Pinmei Yan, Hong Liu, Xiaoqing Gao, Jianying Huang, Weilong Cai, Yuekun Lai
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.05.001
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Advanced healthcare monitors for air pollution applications pose a significant challenge in achieving a balance between high-performance filtration and multifunctional smart integration. Electrospinning triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG) provide a significant potential for use under such difficult circumstances. We have successfully constructed a high-performance TENG utilizing a novel multi-scale nanofiber architecture. Nylon 66 (PA66) and chitosan quaternary ammonium salt (HACC) composites were prepared by electrospinning, and PA66/H multiscale nanofiber membranes composed of nanofibers (≈ 73 nm) and submicron-fibers (≈ 123 nm) were formed. PA66/H multi-scale nanofiber membrane as the positive electrode and negative electrode-spun PVDF-HFP nanofiber membrane composed of respiration- driven PVDF-HFP@PA66/H TENG. The resulting PVDF-HFP@PA66/H TENG based air filter utilizes electrostatic adsorption and physical interception mechanisms, achieving PM0.3 filtration efficiency over 99% with a pressure drop of only 48 Pa.Besides PVDF-HFP@PA66/H TENG exhibits excellent stability in high-humidity environments, with filtration efficiency reduced by less than 1%. At the same time, the TENG achieves periodic contact separation through breathing drive to achieve self- power, which can ensure the long-term stability of the filtration efficiency. In addition to the air filtration function, TENG can also monitor health in real time by capturing human breathing signals without external power supply. This integrated system combines high-efficiency air filtration, self-powered operation, and health monitoring, presenting an innovative solution for air purification, smart protective equipment, and portable health monitoring. These findings highlight the potential of this technology for diverse applications, offering a promising direction for advancing multifunctional air filtration systems.
Optimizing CO production in electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction via electron accumulation at Ni Sites in Ni3ZnC0.7/Ni on N-doped carbon nanofibers
Ge Bai, Min Wang, Luwei Peng, Lulu Li, Yadan Yu, Wenyi Li, Nianjun Yang, Daniil I. Kolokolove, Jinli Qiao
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2025.04.010
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The electrocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2RR) to valuable products presents a promising solution for addressing global warming and enhancing renewable energy storage. Herein, we construct a novel Ni3ZnC0.7/Ni heterostructure electrocatalyst, using an electrospinning strategy to prepare metal particles uniformly loaded on nitrogen-doped carbon nanofibers (CNFs). The incorporation of zinc (Zn) into nickel (Ni) catalysts optimizes the adsorption of CO2 intermediates, balancing the strong binding affinity of Ni with the comparatively weaker affinity of Zn, which mitigates over-activation. The electron transfer within the Ni3ZnC0.7/Ni@CNFs system facilitates rapid electron transfer to CO2, resulting in great performance with a faradaic efficiency for CO (FECO) of nearly 90% at -0.86 V vs. the reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) and a current density of 17.51 mA cm-2 at -1.16 V vs. RHE in an H-cell. Furthermore, the catalyst exhibits remarkable stability, maintaining its crystal structure and morphology after 50 hours of electrolysis. Moreover, the Ni3ZnC0.7/Ni@CNFs is used in the membrane electrode assembly reactor (MEA), which can achieve a FECO of 91.7% at a cell voltage of -3 V and a current density of 200 mA cm-2 at -3.9 V, demonstrating its potential for practical applications in CO2 reduction.
Dual-bonded Polyethyleneimine Network with Electron-withdrawing Groups at α, β-sites for Ultra-stable and Low-energy CO2 Capture in Harsh Environments
Tong Zhou, Yunxia Wen, Zhinan Wu, Shuailong Song, Bohong Wu, Hongwei Guo, Huanhao Chen, Xin Feng, Liwen Mu, Xiaohua Lu, Tuo Ji, Jiahua Zhu
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2024.10.005.
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As an innovative approach to addressing climate change, significant efforts have been dedicated to the development of amine sorbents for CO2 capture. However, the high energy requirements and limited lifespan of these sorbents, such as oxidative and water stability, pose significant challenges to their widespread commercial adoption. Moreover, the understanding of the relationship between adsorption energy and adsorption sites is not known. In this work, a dual-bond strategy was used to create novel secondary amine structures by a polyethyleneimine (PEI) network with electron-extracted (EE) amine sites at adjacent sites, thereby weakening the CO2 binding energy while maintaining the binding ability. In-situ FT-IR and DFT demonstrated the oxygen-containing functional groups adjacent to the amino group withdraw electrons from the N atom, thereby reducing the CO2 adsorption capacity of the secondary amine, resulting in lower regeneration energy consumption of 1.39 GJ·t-1-CO2. In addition, the EE sorbents demonstrated remarkable performance with retention of over 90% of their working capacity after 100 cycles, even under harsh conditions containing 10% O2 and 20% H2O. DFT calculations were employed to clarify for the first time the mechanism that the oxygen functional group at the α-site hinders the formation of the urea structure, thereby being an antioxidant. These findings highlight the promising potential of such sorbents for deployment in various CO2 emission scenarios, irrespective of environmental conditions.
Potassium-doped hydrated manganese dioxide nanowires-carbon nanotube on graphene for high performance rechargeable zinc-ion battery
Ting-Hao Xu, Sin Liou, Fan-Lin Hou, Yuan-Yao Li
, Available online  , doi: 10.1016/j.gee.2021.10.006
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Aqueous rechargeable Zn-ion battery (ARZIB) is a great candidate for the next generation battery due to its high safety, low cost, and relatively high capacity. Here, we develop hydrated and potassium-doped manganese dioxide (MO) nanowires mixed with carbon nanotubes (CNT) on graphene substrates (hydrated KMO-CNT/graphene) for ARZIB. A simple polyol process (poly(ethyl glycol), KMnO4, CNTs, and graphene) is conducted to form the hydrated KMO-CNT/graphene. MnO2 nanowires with diameters of 15–25 nm have a high specific capacity with a short diffusion path. The intercalated K ions and hydrates in the layered MnO2 nanowires remain the MO structure during the charge and discharge process, while carbon nanomaterials (CNTs and graphene) enhance the conductivity of the materials. As a result, the hydrated KMOCNT/graphene demonstrates a good ARZIB performance. A high capacity of 359.8 mAh g-1 at 0.1 A g-1 can be achieved while, at a high current density of 3.0 A g-1, the capacity of 129 mAh g-1 can be obtained with 77% retention after 1000 cycles.

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