Themed collection Recent Review Articles


Living dynamic polymeric materials
Many materials exhibit static and functional properties.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00710K
Debonding-on-demand adhesives for recycling and reusing of electronic devices
Debonding-on-demand adhesives enable the disassembly of multilayer electronic devices under external stimuli, facilitating efficient recycling and reuse of valuable components.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00468C

Is the single-ion conductor cubic Li7La3Zr2O12 a binary ionic electrolyte?
Garnet-type cubic Li7La3Zr2O12 (c-LLZO) is a single-ion conductor, but the electrochemically generated charged vacancies make it a binary ionic electrolyte, which explains the current- and thickness-dependent lithium dendrite initiation dynamics.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00069F
Rational design of uniform SiO2-based afterglow microparticles for photonic crystals
This article highlights recent advances in the rational design of uniform afterglow SiO2 microparticles, facilitated by pseudomorphic transformation-assisted doping, identifies key challenges, and explores opportunities in this field.
Mater. Horiz., 2025,12, 1381-1387
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01541J

A comprehensive analysis from the basics to the application of V-cathodes in Zn–V static and flow batteries
This mini review summarizes the recent progress of Zn–V static battery and Zn–V redox flow battery. Mechanisms, classification and structures, problems and modification strategies are discussed for future developments of these batteries.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NH00125K

Bioactive metal sulfide nanomaterials as photo-enhanced chemodynamic nanoreactors for tumor therapy
An overview of MeSNs for photo-enhanced chemodynamic theranostics of tumors is provided in this review, offering insights into their potential for next-generation cancer treatments.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NH00122F

The gold nanoparticle–lipid membrane synergy for nanomedical applications
The integration of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) with lipid bilayers, gives rise to powerful synergistic effects arising from nanoscale interactions.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NH00292C
Artificial Intelligence-Driven Revolution in Nanozyme Design: From Serendipity to Rational Engineering
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00719D
From optoelectronics to scintillation applications: The versatility of lead-free halide double perovskites
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00573F
Confined nanoarchitectonics for nano-reactors: in situ characterization and tracking systems at the nanoscale
This review explores the application of nanoarchitectonic to confined nanostructures, with a particular focus on advanced in situ characterization and tracking techniques that reveal the dynamic processes of chemical reactions within nano-reactors.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NH00252D
Toughening hydrogels with small molecules: tiny matter, big impact
This review highlights the pivotal role of diverse small molecules in engineering hydrogel network structures and enhancing mechanical toughness. Emerging applications of small-molecule-toughened hydrogels across advanced fields are also explored.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00588D
Nanosheet zeolites: controlled synthesis, characterization, and advanced catalysis applications
This review not only overviews recent advances in nanosheet zeolite synthesis strategies and catalytic applications, but also analyzes their physicochemical properties and effectiveness in diverse catalytic reactions.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00579E
Charge Carrier Recombination and voltage losses in Organic Solar Cells
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00445D

Becoming a foodie in virtual environments: simulating and enhancing the eating experience with wearable electronics for the next-generation VR/AR
Human–machine interfaces have received significant attention for their potential in VR/AR. This review summarizes recent progress in simulating physical and chemical sensations for enhancing eating experiences by utilizing wearable electroncis.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00488H
Advances in conductive filler-integrated hydrogels and derived aerogels: innovative strategies for electromagnetic interference shielding
Electromagnetic interference has promoted the development of hydrogel shielding materials. This review explores their shielding mechanisms, research progress, challenges and future directions.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00577A
Advances in mechanically active materials for soft wearable electronics
This article reviews advances in mechanically active materials for wearable electronics. The content covers mechanisms of piezoelectric, magnetic and elastomeric materials, as well as applications in multimodal sensing, haptic feedback and others.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00563A
Overview and SWOT analysis of nano-ferroptosis therapy for cancers
This review employs SWOT analysis to assess the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats of nano-ferroptosis therapy, thereby identifying strategies that can inform ongoing basic research, application development, and clinical trials.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NH00170F
Intelligent soft wearable bioelectronics for neurological disorders
This review highlights recent advancements in soft wearable bioelectronics for neurological disorders, focusing on device design strategies and their clinical applications.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00528K
Toward next-generation smart medical care wearables: where microfluidics meet microneedles
The integration of microneedles (MNs) with microfluidic platforms has emerged as a transformative approach for developing next-generation smart wearable devices aimed at precise drug delivery and real-time physiological monitoring.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NH00060B
Innovative materials that behave like robots to combat plastic pollution
The growing plastic pollution crisis demands novel approaches, with innovative materials that mimic robotic behaviors emerging as a promising solution.
Mater. Horiz., 2025,12, 4042-4064
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01772B
Recycling and regeneration of failed layered oxide cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries
With broad usage of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) in electronic devices and electric vehicles (EVs), a large number of decommissioned LIBs will be generated, which cause serious environmental pollution and waste of resources.
Mater. Horiz., 2025,12, 4065-4091
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01803F
A review on electrode materials of supercapacitors used in wearable bioelectronics and implantable biomedical applications
Supercapacitors boost wearable/implantable devices with high power & long life. Novel materials aim for better energy density & miniaturization, powering bioelectronics & medical implants with reliable, safe energy.
Mater. Horiz., 2025,12, 4092-4132
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01707B
From synthesis to properties: expanding the horizons of machine learning in nanomaterials research
An overview of the application of machine learning in single nanomaterials and nanocomposites is provided. We highlight a closed-loop relationship between the synthesis and properties by machine learning models with optimization and prediction tasks.
Mater. Horiz., 2025,12, 4133-4164
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01909A
Self-powered electrochemical energy systems to produce fuels
This review discusses advances in self-powered electrochemical systems for fuel production. Critical evaluations of the electrochemistry are highlighted to estimate the obstacles still hindering large-scale application in this field.
Mater. Horiz., 2025,12, 4027-4041
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00285K
2D van der Waals heterostructure memristors: from band structure regulation to neuromorphic computing applications
2D van der Waals heterostructures offer great promise for memristors and neuromorphic computing. This review covers their preparation methods, band structures, switching mechanisms in memristors, and neuromorphic computing applications.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00306G
Recent progress in perovskite photodetectors: from carrier dynamics to device structures and applications
Types and applications of perovskite photodetectors.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00032G
Nucleic acid-based chiral nanostructures and their biomedical applications
The chiral geometries of nucleic acids and emerging biomedical applications of nucleic acid-based chiral nanostructures are summarized in this review.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NH00140D
Transforming Surgical Planning and Procedures through Synergistic use of Additive Manufacturing, Advanced Materials and Artificial Intelligence: Challenges and Opportunities
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00501A
Electrically conductive nanomaterial-enhanced membranes for wastewater reclamation: mechanisms and performance insights
This review article discusses membrane technology for wastewater reclamation using electrically conductive nanomaterials (ECNMs) and emphasizes “green synthesis” for nanomaterial manufacturing.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00601E
Crystalline porous membrane devices: emerging architectures for carbon-neutral technologies
In this review, we present a comprehensive analysis of crystalline porous materials (MOFs, COFs, and HOFs) as membrane devices for carbon-neutral technologies.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00766F
Tattoo electrodes in bioelectronics: a pathway to next-generation wearable systems
This review provides an overview of recent progress in tattoo electrodes, emphasizing fabrication techniques and material selection, and explores their broad range of applications in wearable bioelectronic systems.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NH00175G
Self-powered wearable sensing devices for digital health
This review focuses on self-powered wearable sensing devices that utilize human energy, introducing their power supply mechanism and efficiency improvement methods.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00443H
Recent progress of gel-based materials in energy storage and conversion
Gel materials are ideal electrode candidates for energy applications, featuring unique 3D networks, tunable properties, and remarkable stability.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00368G
Wet chemically produced nanomaterials for soft wearable biosensors
This review covers wet chemically synthesized nanomaterials for soft wearable biosensors, covering materials, inks, fabrication and sensing applications, and concludes with challenges and opportunities in personalized healthcare.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NH00048C

Exploring the intricacies of protein–nanoparticle interaction and its implications in chronic diseases: a comprehensive review
Nanoparticles upon interaction with proteins form a protein corona, altering their characteristics. This corona influences nanoparticles' biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, and therapeutic efficacy.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NH00076A
Wearable biosensors for health monitoring: advances in graphene-based technologies
This paper reviews graphene nanostructures as promising materials for wearable biosensors, detailing their synthesis, tunability, and biocompatibility, and outlining their role in next-generation wearable diagnostics for real-time health monitoring.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NH00141B

Next-generation CO2 electroreduction: the role of atomically precise nanoclusters and emerging catalytic strategies
This article explores the electroreduction capabilities of metal nanoclusters, highlighting the structure–property correlation and its impact on product selectivity–ultimately guiding the design of efficient electrocatalysts for CO₂ reduction.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NH00138B

Indoor light energy harvesting perovskite solar cells: from device physics to AI-driven strategies
This review explores the evolution of indoor perovskite solar cells driven by recent advances in material optimization and machine learning, fostering sustainable indoor energy solutions for interconnected smart technologies.
Mater. Horiz., 2025,12, 3691-3711
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00133A

Memristive neuromorphic interfaces: integrating sensory modalities with artificial neural networks
This review explores recent advances in mimicking biological sensory systems—receptors, neurons, and synapses—using memristors. It also outlines methods to attain the necessary device traits and implement systems effectively.
Mater. Horiz., 2025,12, 3667-3690
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00038F
Advancing endosomal escape of polymeric nanoparticles: towards improved intracellular delivery
This review explores mechanisms of endosomal escape in polymeric nanoparticles and highlights emerging quantification methods. A critical discussion on current challenges and future strategies for optimizing intracellular delivery is provided.
Mater. Horiz., 2025,12, 3622-3632
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01781A
Polyimide nanocomposites for next generation spacesuits
Exploring the potential of polyimide–carbon nanocomposites with enhanced mechanical strength, self-healing ability, dust repellence, fire resistance and protection against atomic oxygen for next-generation spacesuits.
Mater. Horiz., 2025,12, 3633-3666
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01816H
Semiconductor-mediated radiosensitizers: progress, challenges and perspectives
The principles, enhancement strategies, progress of different semiconductor types, challenges/perspectives, and guidance for commercial applications are systematic reviewed for the semiconductor radiosensitizers.
Mater. Horiz., 2025,12, 3598-3621
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01703J
Machine learning-assisted X-ray absorption analysis of bimetallic catalysts
Bimetallic nanoparticles have attracted increasing scientific and technological interest as modules for creating nanoscale materials with unique magnetic, electronic, and chemical properties.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00387C
Bacterial cellulose-based functional yarns: from design to applications
This review highlights recent advances in bacterial cellulose-derived functional yarns, covering applications in reinforcement materials, wearable technology, energy storage, and discolored textiles, with existing challenges and future perspectives.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00456J

Machine learning in biosignal analysis from wearable devices
This review outlines key machine learning algorithms for biosignal analysis and offers guidance on model selection. Applications in neural, cardiovascular, and biochemical signal monitoring for health tracking and disease prediction are discussed.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00451A
Research on light-responsive luminescence properties of carbon dots and their applications
This review classifies light-responsive carbon dots into photoluminescent and photochromic categories, examines their synthesis strategies and optical mechanisms, and discusses the applications of these materials in various fields.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00676G

Harnessing mesoporous g-C3N4-based photocatalytic materials for sustainable fuel production via solar energy conversion: a review
This TOC signifies the mp-g-CN photocatalyst enriched with a finely tuned functional porous surface and enhanced optoelectronic features, which suitably enables solar fuel production by using renewable stuffs to maintain the circular energy cycle.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00294J
Bioinspired rational design of nanozymes
This review presents a comprehensive overview of bioinspired rational design of nanozymes, guided by the catalytic mechanisms and structural characteristics of natural enzymes, and enhanced by emerging trend of machine learning assisted strategies.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00746A
Polymorphic phases in 2D In2Se3: fundamental properties, phase transition modulation methodologies and advanced applications
This review explores the latest progress of various polymorphic phases of 2D In2Se3, emphasizing their unique properties, characterization methods, phase modulation strategies, and practical applications.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2025,10, 1054-1076
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00650J
Advancements in MOF-based resistive gas sensors: synthesis methods and applications for toxic gas detection
Gas sensors are essential tools for safeguarding public health and safety because they allow the detection of hazardous gases.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2025,10, 1025-1053
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00662C

The emergence of metal-free molecular perovskites: challenges and opportunities
This review discusses the challenges associated with the emerging all-organic perovskite materials while outlining opportunities for their further development and applications in the future.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01877J
Recent advances in garnet-based electrolytes for solid-state lithium metal batteries: interfacial challenges and engineering strategies
In this review, we systematically analyze the interfacial challenges between garnet-type electrolytes/composite electrolytes and electrodes, mainly focusing on the interfacial failure mechanism of garnet-type based SSLMBs.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00583C
Shape-morphing bioelectronic devices
Working principles, representative deformation modes, manufacturing methodologies, diverse applications, as well as challenges and opportunities of shape-morphing bioelectronic devices.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00453E
Control of molecular aggregation structures towards flexible organic photovoltaics
This review evaluates molecular aggregation structures across scales, elucidates mechanisms for enhancing tensile properties and summarizes methods to regulate structures, which provides critical insights for designing efficient and flexible OPVs.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00160A
Innovative biosensing smart masks: unveiling the future of respiratory monitoring
An innovative biosensing smart mask for the future of respiratory monitoring.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00279F
Enhanced biochemical sensing using metallic nanoclusters integrated with metal–organic frameworks (NCs@MOFs): a comprehensive review
Significant advancements have been made in biochemical sensing, particularly in the design, development, and utilization of metallic nanoclusters and metal–organic frameworks as separate functional materials.
Mater. Horiz., 2025,12, 3301-3319
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01932F
Advances in small droplets manipulation on bio-inspired slippery surfaces: chances and challenges
This paper reviews droplet manipulation on bioinspired slippery surfaces. It also classifies methods into active and passive based on external stimuli like heat and light and emphasizes their significance for applications in multiple fields.
Mater. Horiz., 2025,12, 3267-3285
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01666A
Recent advances in metal single-atom catalysts for ammonia electrosynthesis
This review provides insight into the development of advanced metal single-atom catalysts for ammonia electrosynthesis.
Mater. Horiz., 2025,12, 3286-3300
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00042D

Wide-temperature solid polymer electrolytes: Li+ coordination structure, ionic transport and interphases
Solid polymer electrolytes have been considered one of the most promising candidates for solid-state batteries, while the Li coordination structure, interfaces and interphases and related cycling performance still remain challenge.
Mater. Horiz., 2025,12, 3201-3233
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01869A
Recent advances in lead-free carbon supported perovskites based on Z-scheme and S-scheme heterojunctions for photocatalytic energy conversion
Photocatalysis has emerged as a crucial technology for utilizing solar energy to combat global warming and energy shortages.
Mater. Horiz., 2025,12, 3234-3266
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01516A
Self-assembled monolayers for tin perovskite solar cells: challenges and opportunities
This review explores the potential of self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) as a solution to mitigate the voltage deficits in tin perovskite solar cells (TPSCs).
Mater. Horiz., 2025,12, 3188-3200
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01603C
Recent progress in the electrocatalytic applications of thiolate-protected metal nanoclusters
The latest developments in thiolate-protected metal nanoclusters in important electrocatalytic applications, such as hydrogen evolution, oxygen reduction and CO2 reduction reactions, are briefly reviewed in this work.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NH00153F
Recent advances in nanomaterial-based adsorbents for removal of pharmaceutical pollutants from wastewater
Adsorption is widely recognized as an effective and practical approach for mitigating the environmental hazards associated with pharmaceutical waste, owing to its operational simplicity, economic feasibility, and consistent performance.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00627A

Innovative engineering strategies and mechanistic insights for enhanced carbon-based electrocatalysts in sustainable H2O2 production
This review provides a comprehensive overview of the latest key advancements in materials engineering strategies for carbon-based electrocatalysts for H2O2 production.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00221D
Thermogalvanic hydrogels for low-grade heat harvesting and health monitoring
With the advances and ongoing research efforts discussed in this review, a continuous breakthrough in high-performance thermogalvanic hydrogels for efficient low-grade heat harvesting and wearable electronics for health monitoring is foreseeable.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01931H

Recent advances in atomic layer deposition of superconducting thin films: a review
ALD of superconducting films for various high performance applications.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5MH00323G
Advances in chiral luminescent liquid crystals (CLLCs): from molecular design to applications
Research on circularly polarized luminescent (CPL) materials has evolved into a hot research topic because of their potential application prospects in the optoelectronics and chiroptical fields.
Mater. Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4MH01928H
Photoacoustic contrast agents: a review focusing on image-guided therapy
Photoacoustic (PA) imaging is a burgeoning imaging modality that has a broad range of applications in the early diagnosis of cancer, detection of various diseases, and relevant scientific research.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4NH00395K
Research advances in the diagnosis of infectious disease by aptasensor technology
Various aptasensors offer rapid, accurate and reliable detection tools for diagnosis of infectious disease pathogens.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NH00098J
Radio frequency switching devices based on two-dimensional materials for high-speed communication applications
This review summarizes recent progress in two-dimensional material-based RF switches, focusing on performance optimization, fabrication methods, and challenges, and potential applications in future high-frequency communication systems.
Nanoscale Horiz., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D5NH00105F
About this collection
In addition to first reports of new concepts, Materials Horizons and Nanoscale Horizons publish topical review and minireview articles.
Reviews will be added to this webpage as soon as possible after publication.