Themed collection Sustainable Energy & Fuels Recent HOT Articles, 2025

39 items
Perspective

Simulated annealing, spin-coating, and poling: in silico fabrication of ferroelectric polyvinylidene fluoride polymers on graphene as a model of a low-energy-consumption switching device

Amorphous-to-β-phase crystallization of PVDF by annealing, spin-coating and poling mimicked in silico by non-equilibrium molecular dynamics simulations.

Graphical abstract: Simulated annealing, spin-coating, and poling: in silico fabrication of ferroelectric polyvinylidene fluoride polymers on graphene as a model of a low-energy-consumption switching device
Review Article

Integrated adsorption–catalysis design enabling high-performance sodium–sulfur batteries

This review details the working mechanism of adsorption–catalysis synergy in RT Na–S batteries and systematically discusses the latest progress and strategies in enhancing adsorption–catalysis synergistic effects in RT Na–S batteries.

Graphical abstract: Integrated adsorption–catalysis design enabling high-performance sodium–sulfur batteries
Review Article

Evolutionary mechanisms of pore-fracture network development in oil shale during pyrolysis: current research progress and perspectives

This review examines lab techniques for pore/fracture evolution in oil shale pyrolysis, covering thermal mechanisms, rock properties, heating impacts, key parameters, and future directions.

Graphical abstract: Evolutionary mechanisms of pore-fracture network development in oil shale during pyrolysis: current research progress and perspectives
Review Article

Recent progress in curved materials for oxygen electrocatalysis

The preparation and utilization of hydrogen (H2) energy rely on the water splitting and fuel cell technology, specifically involving the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), respectively.

Graphical abstract: Recent progress in curved materials for oxygen electrocatalysis
From the themed collection: Editor-in-Chief’s choice – Karen Wilson
Review Article

Electrocatalytic aldehyde oxidation: an emerging anodic reaction for efficient electrolytic systems

Electrocatalytic aldehyde oxidation, which has low oxidation potentials, has emerged as a promising anodic reaction to be coupled with a diversity of electroreduction reactions.

Graphical abstract: Electrocatalytic aldehyde oxidation: an emerging anodic reaction for efficient electrolytic systems
From the themed collection: Editor-in-Chief’s choice – Karen Wilson
Paper

Non-precious macrocycle embedded hybrid nanocomposites for efficient water oxidation

The development of efficient electrocatalysts for OER remains a challenge owing to issues such as unfavourable mass transport, reaction thermodynamics, and kinetics.

Graphical abstract: Non-precious macrocycle embedded hybrid nanocomposites for efficient water oxidation
Paper

The effect of the formation of key components on the laminar combustion rate of ammonia/methanol mixture combustion under medium-pressure gas turbine related working conditions

With the development of industry, environmental pollution is becoming more and more serious, and greenhouse gas emissions lead to the continuous rise of global temperature; thus, energy conservation and emission reduction are imminent.

Graphical abstract: The effect of the formation of key components on the laminar combustion rate of ammonia/methanol mixture combustion under medium-pressure gas turbine related working conditions
Paper

Enhanced SnO2 electron transport layers by Eu3+ doping for efficient and stable perovskite solar cells

Europium chloride hexahydrate was added into the chemical bath deposition process of SnO2, in which Eu3+ successfully doped into SnO2 lattice, enhancing its electrical properties, increasing the efficiency and stability of perovskite solar cells.

Graphical abstract: Enhanced SnO2 electron transport layers by Eu3+ doping for efficient and stable perovskite solar cells
Paper

In situ composite solid electrolyte interphases enabling dendrite-free sodium metal batteries

Artificial SEI with NaF/Na2S ensures high ionic conductivity, while organic amide groups regulate Na+ flux via polar adsorption, enhancing sodium metal anode stability.

Graphical abstract: In situ composite solid electrolyte interphases enabling dendrite-free sodium metal batteries
Paper

Establishing redox flow batteries with polyoxometalate-based redox couples for enhanced hydrogen sulfide splitting

We developed an innovative redox flow battery with polyoxometalate-based redox couples. This system successfully improved the efficient conversion of H2S into hydrogen and elemental sulfur.

Graphical abstract: Establishing redox flow batteries with polyoxometalate-based redox couples for enhanced hydrogen sulfide splitting
Paper

Ultra-low loading porphyrin-incorporated conjugated polymer dots as photocatalysts for aerobic oxidation of sulfides in water

Porphyrin-incorporated conjugated polymer dots serve as ultra-low loading photocatalysts for the aerobic oxidation of sulfides to sulfoxides in aqueous environments. The photocatalytic process can be scaled to yield gram quantities of the product.

Graphical abstract: Ultra-low loading porphyrin-incorporated conjugated polymer dots as photocatalysts for aerobic oxidation of sulfides in water
Open Access Paper

Immobilisation of a molecular iridium complex on periodic mesoporous organosilica for heterogeneous water oxidation catalysis

Heterogenised half-sandwich IrIII molecular catalysts as efficient heterogeneous water oxidation catalysts for artificial photosynthesis.

Graphical abstract: Immobilisation of a molecular iridium complex on periodic mesoporous organosilica for heterogeneous water oxidation catalysis
From the themed collection: Recent Open Access Articles
Open Access Paper

Strong impacts of inter-π-chain charge transfer accelerating CO2 reduction photocatalysis of carbazole–diimine-based linear conjugated polymer/Ru complex hybrids

Manipulation of photoexcited charge transportation via modulation of polymer structures significantly improved the photocatalytic performance of metal complex/conjugated polymer hybrids for CO2 reduction.

Graphical abstract: Strong impacts of inter-π-chain charge transfer accelerating CO2 reduction photocatalysis of carbazole–diimine-based linear conjugated polymer/Ru complex hybrids
From the themed collection: Recent Open Access Articles
Paper

A robust and conductive 3D Fe(II) MOF as a durable cathode for aqueous zinc-ion batteries

A highly robust, conductive 3D triazolate Fe-MOF serves as a standalone cathode for AZIBs, offering promising specific capacity with 60% retention over 2100 cycles. This study showcases the potential of 3D MOF in energy storage through AZIBs.

Graphical abstract: A robust and conductive 3D Fe(ii) MOF as a durable cathode for aqueous zinc-ion batteries
Paper

Photovoltaic performance and scanning tunneling microscopy analysis of PM6:Y7 based organic solar cells

OSCs, all fabricated and tested under regular atmosphere. Interchain and intermolecular distance of PM6, Y7 and PM6:Y7 blend by scanning tunneling microscopy (STM).

Graphical abstract: Photovoltaic performance and scanning tunneling microscopy analysis of PM6:Y7 based organic solar cells
Paper

Band engineering of a PTAA hole transporting layer in the n–i–p architecture of MAPbI3-based perovskite solar cells

This work reports the synthesis of poly[bis(4-phenyl)(2,4,6-trimethylphenyl)amine] (PTAA) with different chemical skeletal structures, resulting in varied highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) positions.

Graphical abstract: Band engineering of a PTAA hole transporting layer in the n–i–p architecture of MAPbI3-based perovskite solar cells
Paper

Crystalline sulfur-doped poly(heptazine imide) for enhanced photocatalytic H2 evolution under visible-light irradiation

A highly crystalline sulfur-doped PHI (S-PHI) is synthesized from the compound 1H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thiol. S-PHI exhibits enhanced light utilization, enlarged surface area and promoted charge-carrier transfer efficiency as compared to PHI.

Graphical abstract: Crystalline sulfur-doped poly(heptazine imide) for enhanced photocatalytic H2 evolution under visible-light irradiation
Paper

Photo-promoted one-pot coupling isomerization–codimerization of norbornadiene for the efficient synthesis of liquid fuel with a density higher than 1 g mL−1

exoexo-Hexacyclo[9.2.1.02,10.03,7.04,9.06,8]tetradec-12-ene (exoexo) is one of the few liquid fuels with a density higher than 1 g mL−1.

Graphical abstract: Photo-promoted one-pot coupling isomerization–codimerization of norbornadiene for the efficient synthesis of liquid fuel with a density higher than 1 g mL−1
Open Access Paper

Light-driven electron transfer in a lipid bilayer with mixed valence molecular wires

Light-driven electron transfer in a lipid bilayer is mediated by oligoaromatic bis(triarylamines), which are capable of long range electron delocalization (mixed valence).

Graphical abstract: Light-driven electron transfer in a lipid bilayer with mixed valence molecular wires
From the themed collection: Recent Open Access Articles
Open Access Paper

Metal-free graphitic carbon nitride/carbon-dots composites: unveiling mechanochemical synthesis opportunities

Mechanochemically synthesized materials show competitive performance in selective photooxidation. The study includes comprehensive characterization, light–matter interaction modeling, and quantum efficiency calculations.

Graphical abstract: Metal-free graphitic carbon nitride/carbon-dots composites: unveiling mechanochemical synthesis opportunities
From the themed collection: Recent Open Access Articles
Paper

A polyfluorene-based electrolyte membrane for hydrogen/oxygen gas separation under humidified conditions

Hydrogen/oxygen separation under wet conditions has recently become important in the production of hydrogen.

Graphical abstract: A polyfluorene-based electrolyte membrane for hydrogen/oxygen gas separation under humidified conditions
Paper

Efficient homogeneous electrochemical water oxidation catalysed by macrocyclic nickel complexes with redox non-innocent pyridine coordination structures

Two Ni complexes are used as water oxidation catalyst. Complex 1 with pyridine-amine ligand is found to be a molecular catalyst, while complex 2 with amine ligand is a pre-catalyst, revealing that the pyridine ring benefits their stability.

Graphical abstract: Efficient homogeneous electrochemical water oxidation catalysed by macrocyclic nickel complexes with redox non-innocent pyridine coordination structures
Open Access Paper

Chemically pre-lithiated/sodiated reduced graphene oxide–antimony oxide composites for high-rate capability and long-term cycling stability in lithium and sodium-ion batteries

This study presents a graphene–antimony dual-function anode material synthesized through a simple chemical pre-lithiation/sodiation process, achieving near-theoretical capacities and outstanding cycling stability.

Graphical abstract: Chemically pre-lithiated/sodiated reduced graphene oxide–antimony oxide composites for high-rate capability and long-term cycling stability in lithium and sodium-ion batteries
From the themed collection: Recent Open Access Articles
Open Access Paper

A comparative cost and qualitative analysis for the transportation of green energy carriers

In this paper, we analyze the cost-optimality of transporting eight liquid or gaseous green energy carriers, including H2, via pipelines and shipping, over distances from 250 to 3000 km.

Graphical abstract: A comparative cost and qualitative analysis for the transportation of green energy carriers
From the themed collection: Recent Open Access Articles
Paper

Printable mesoscopic perovskite solar cells with performance tuning via trifluoroacetamide

Trifluoroacetamide was used as a passivator to fabricate printable mesoscopic perovskite solar cells with a power conversion efficiency of 18.67%.

Graphical abstract: Printable mesoscopic perovskite solar cells with performance tuning via trifluoroacetamide
Paper

Microbubble synthesis of hybridised bacterial cellulose–gelatin separators for multifunctional supercapacitors

This study introduces durable hybridised bacterial cellulose–gelatin separators synthesised via a facile microbubble process, offering enhanced electrochemical performance for innovative energy storage applications.

Graphical abstract: Microbubble synthesis of hybridised bacterial cellulose–gelatin separators for multifunctional supercapacitors
Paper

Electronically modulated cobalt–nitrogen/carbon catalyst via ligand displacement of metal–organic frameworks toward efficient oxygen reduction

Ligand displacement in a metal–organic framework to introduce nitrogen and sulphur elements could tailor the electronic environment and oxygen binding force of the resulting cobalt–nitrogen/carbon catalyst to improve its oxygen reduction activity.

Graphical abstract: Electronically modulated cobalt–nitrogen/carbon catalyst via ligand displacement of metal–organic frameworks toward efficient oxygen reduction
Paper

Numerical study of methanol steam reactor based on field synergy principle and analysis of different operating conditions

The geometry of the tube dictates the gas separation point, shaping shell-side flow and temperature distributions. Circular tubes create an expanded gas wake that optimizes temperature–velocity synergy and enhances heat transfer efficiency.

Graphical abstract: Numerical study of methanol steam reactor based on field synergy principle and analysis of different operating conditions
Paper

Nitrogen-deficient porous g-C3N4 derived from an HMTA-regulated supramolecular precursor for enhanced photocatalytic H2 evolution

N-defect-rich porous g-C3N4 is derived from an HMTA-regulated supramolecular precursor for enhanced photocatalytic H2-production performance.

Graphical abstract: Nitrogen-deficient porous g-C3N4 derived from an HMTA-regulated supramolecular precursor for enhanced photocatalytic H2 evolution
Open Access Paper

Enhancing the stability of inverted perovskite solar cells through Cu2ZnSnS4 nanoparticles hole transporting material

Cu2ZnSnS4 nanoparticles as hole transport material stabilise perovskite solar cells' performance.

Graphical abstract: Enhancing the stability of inverted perovskite solar cells through Cu2ZnSnS4 nanoparticles hole transporting material
From the themed collection: Recent Open Access Articles
Open Access Paper

Li-doped 2D aza-fused covalent organic framework: a promising avenue for hydrogen storage

In this article, we used DFT calculations and ab initio molecular dynamics simulations, to study two-dimensional (2D) aza-fused covalent organic framework (aza-COF) doped with Li, which is shown to be a promising material for hydrogen storage applications.

Graphical abstract: Li-doped 2D aza-fused covalent organic framework: a promising avenue for hydrogen storage
Paper

CeO2-enhanced surface reconstruction of Ni3S2 nanosheets for improved urea-assisted water splitting performance

Ni3S2–CeO2/NF enhances urea-assisted water splitting by promoting surface reconstruction and urea adsorption, and optimizing HER kinetics through synergistic interactions.

Graphical abstract: CeO2-enhanced surface reconstruction of Ni3S2 nanosheets for improved urea-assisted water splitting performance
Open Access Paper

Hydroxyl-conductive 2D hexagonal boron nitrides for anion exchange membrane water electrolysis and sustainable hydrogen production

Anion exchange membrane water electrolyser showing the chemical structure of hydroxyl-conductive 2D hBN-based anion exchange membrane (AEM). The developed AEMs exhibit high hydroxyl conductivity, superior mechanical and electrochemical stability.

Graphical abstract: Hydroxyl-conductive 2D hexagonal boron nitrides for anion exchange membrane water electrolysis and sustainable hydrogen production
From the themed collection: Recent Open Access Articles
Paper

Elucidating the role of cobalt nanoparticles and Mn-phosphate in etched ZIF-67/phthalimide-NC and phthalimene oxide for supercapacitor and electrochemical oxygen evolution reaction applications

Elucidating the effect of CoNPs and Mn-phosphate as found in K-phthalimide-derived N-doped carbon sheet in capacitive charge-storage while forming a composite with ZIF-67 and oxidized K-Ph-Oxide similar to graphene oxide.

Graphical abstract: Elucidating the role of cobalt nanoparticles and Mn-phosphate in etched ZIF-67/phthalimide-NC and phthalimene oxide for supercapacitor and electrochemical oxygen evolution reaction applications
Paper

Activating hexagonal boron nitride monolayers for efficient hydrogen evolution reaction by strong interfacial interactions with 2D M2X electrides

Anchoring h-BN monolayer on metal-based electride substrates can enhance its electrical conductivity and regulate its catalytic activity for hydrogen evolution reactions.

Graphical abstract: Activating hexagonal boron nitride monolayers for efficient hydrogen evolution reaction by strong interfacial interactions with 2D M2X electrides
Paper

Crystalline/amorphous Co3(PO4)2–MoO3−x/NF heterojunction synergistically improves overall water-splitting kinetics

Designing and constructing highly efficient, cost-effective, and durable non-precious metal bifunctional catalysts remains a challenge.

Graphical abstract: Crystalline/amorphous Co3(PO4)2–MoO3−x/NF heterojunction synergistically improves overall water-splitting kinetics
Paper

Enhancing the performance and safety of quasi-solid-state zinc ion batteries through advanced electrolyte and material design

Schematic diagram of ion transport.

Graphical abstract: Enhancing the performance and safety of quasi-solid-state zinc ion batteries through advanced electrolyte and material design
Paper

Rapid laser synthesis of medium-entropy alloy nanostructures for neutral seawater electrolysis

We report the direct laser-induced synthesis of medium-entropy alloy FeNiCoRu nanoparticles for neutral seawater electrolysis with excellent long-duration.

Graphical abstract: Rapid laser synthesis of medium-entropy alloy nanostructures for neutral seawater electrolysis
Paper

Cathode-supported solid polymer electrolyte with solvate ionic liquid and polysulfide modification for rechargeable lithium metal batteries

A cathode-supported solid polymer electrolyte was fabricated for rechargeable lithium metal batteries, modified synergistically with a solvate ionic liquid (SIL) as a plasticizer and a soluble polysulfide (Li2S6) as a functional additive.

Graphical abstract: Cathode-supported solid polymer electrolyte with solvate ionic liquid and polysulfide modification for rechargeable lithium metal batteries
39 items

Spotlight

Advertisements