Themed collection Energy Advances Recent Review Articles
Evaluation of redox pairs for low-grade heat energy harvesting with a thermally regenerative cycle
We present a comprehensive survey of the redox couples and end up with 81 different electrolyte combinations to highlight the untapped potential of the thermally regenerative electrochemical cycle.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 2877-2886
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00368C
Powering the future: Germany's Wasserstoffstrategie in the transition to climate neutrality – case study on green hydrogen for the chemical industry
Analysis and calculation of Germany's climate politics and hydrogen strategy, with a focus on the technical demand for hydrogen implementation through a case study of the chemical industry that engages multiple stakeholders.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 2887-2895
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00246F
Battery electrode slurry rheology and its impact on manufacturing
Slurry rheology is a critical metrology tool for understanding and optimising the manufacture of battery electrodes.
Energy Adv., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00380B
Efficiency in photocatalytic production of hydrogen: energetic and sustainability implications
The efficiency of hydrogen generation through photocatalytic processes is analyzed from a dual perspective considering energetic and sustainability implications.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 2738-2757
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00361F
Unlocking high-efficiency energy storage and conversion with biocompatible electrodes: the key role of interfacial interaction assembly and structural design
This perspective paper covers textile- and hydrogel-based biocompatible electrodes, and their applications for supercapacitors, biofuel cells, and actuators, focusing on the importance of interfacial interactions between electrode components.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 2152-2174
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00387J
Quinacridone dyes: versatile molecules and materials for photo- and photoelectrochemical processes
We discuss the versatility of quinacridone pigment in photocatalysis, embracing water splitting, carbon dioxide reduction and organic synthesis. Applications include homogeneous catalysis, nanoparticles, covalent organic frameworks, photoelectrodes.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 1894-1904
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00273C
The energy storage application of core-/yolk–shell structures in sodium batteries
Materials with a core–shell and yolk–shell structure have attracted considerable attention owing to their attractive properties for application in Na batteries and other electrochemical energy storage systems.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 1238-1264
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00141A
Biofuels and hydrogen production: back to the Langmuir–Blodgett approach for large-scale structuration of Bi-based photoelectrodes
This perspective article highlights the good potentiality for the Langmuir Blodgett technique to produce massively BiVO4 based photoelectrodes for biomass valorization and hydrogen production in the context of Brazil's decarbonation.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 945-961
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00627A
Advancements in cathode materials for potassium-ion batteries: current landscape, obstacles, and prospects
This perspective highlights progress in the development of cathode materials for potassium-ion batteries, whilst providing valuable insights into unexplored compositional spaces that can be pursued for high-performance electrode materials.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 60-107
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00406F
Interfacial engineering of lithium metal anodes: what is left to uncover?
Interfacial engineering plays a key role in solving the reactivity puzzle of lithium metal batteries. Here, we discuss the interfacial engineering pieces that are in place and the ones that still need to be fitted.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 108-122
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00470H
Amorphous MOFs for next generation supercapacitors and batteries
New opportunities and challenges associated with amorphous MOFs for energy storage.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 1591-1603
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00306J
From material properties to device metrics: a data-driven guide to battery design
This perspective highlights the material properties, cell design decisions, and manufacturing costs with the biggest influence on the energy, power, cost, lifetime, and safety of a battery.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 1326-1350
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00137G
Artificial intelligence-navigated development of high-performance electrochemical energy storage systems through feature engineering of multiple descriptor families of materials
With increased awareness of artificial intelligence-based algorithms coupled with the non-stop creation of material databases, artificial intelligence (AI) can facilitate fast development of high-performance electrochemical energy storage systems (EESSs).
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 615-645
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00104K
The role of graphene in new thermoelectric materials
This article highlights new and interesting research ideas that explored graphene's potential for thermoelectrics.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 606-614
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00085K
Perspectives on the mechanical robustness of flexible perovskite solar cells
This perspective highlights recent advances in improving the mechanical robustness of FPSCs and prospects to clarify the mechanism between the mechanical behavior and the photoelectric performance.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 355-364
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2YA00303A
Composite solid-state electrolytes for all solid-state lithium batteries: progress, challenges and outlook
Composite solid-state electrolytes (CSEs) with multiple phases offer greater flexibility to customize and combine the advantages of single-phase electrolytes, making them promising candidates for commercial all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs).
Energy Adv., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00542B
Exploring the spectrum: an environmental examination of hydrogen's diverse colors
Hydrogen is emerging as an immense source of energy having the potential to at least partly replace fossil fuels.
Energy Adv., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00570H
A review of proton exchange membranes modified with inorganic nanomaterials for fuel cells
This review gives an overview of the application of inorganic nanoparticles in the proton exchange membrane (PEM) of direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs).
Energy Adv., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00446A
Zinc–iron (Zn–Fe) redox flow battery single to stack cells: a futuristic solution for high energy storage off-grid applications
Decoupling of energy and power; depth of discharge; flexible in design; high safety; recyclable.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 2861-2876
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00358F
Recent advances in noble-metal-free bifunctional oxygen electrode catalysts
This article reviews advancements in non-precious metal bifunctional oxygen electrocatalysts, focusing on the pros and cons of carbon materials, transition metal compounds, composites, active site density, and design principles.
Energy Adv., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00551A
Nano-Engineering Halide Perovskites: Towards Energy Harvesting, Nano-Plasmon Sensing and Photoflexoelectric Potential Applications
Energy Adv., 2024, Accepted Manuscript
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00442F
Semitransparent organic and perovskite photovoltaics for agrivoltaic applications
Combining agriculture and solar energy offers a promising solution for communities to support their food needs sustainably. Organic and perovskite semitransparent photovoltaics can be potential game changers in agrivoltaics applications.
Energy Adv., 2025, Advance Article
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00492B
Fabrication methods, pseudocapacitance characteristics, and integration of conjugated conducting polymers in electrochemical energy storage devices
Conducting polymers are gaining significant attention in electrochemical energy storage devices for their unique ionic/electronic conduction and redox pseudocapacitance characteristics.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 2668-2703
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00504J
Controlled synthesis of copper sulfide-based catalysts for electrochemical reduction of CO2 to formic acid and beyond: a review
This review provides a comprehensive overview of various advanced engineering strategies and controlled synthesis of copper–sulfide compounds for enhanced electrochemical CO2 reduction to valuable products.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 2704-2737
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00302K
Recent advances in in situ/operando characterization of lithium–sulfur batteries
We review the recent literature on spectroscopic/electrochemical operando methods as they are increasingly being applied to understand lithium–sulfur batteries.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 2479-2502
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00416G
Recent advances in layered double hydroxide (LDH)-based materials: fabrication, modification strategies, characterization, promising environmental catalytic applications, and prospective aspects
Layered double hydroxides (LDHs) are clay networks with brucite (Mg(OH2)) layers that are coupled with anions between the produced layers.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 2136-2151
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00272E
Trends in the energy and environmental applications of metal–organic framework-based materials
Over the past 20 years, metal–organic framework (MOF) nanosheets have garnered a great deal of interest in the fields of energy and environmental management because of their inherent extraordinary qualities.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 2079-2135
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00332B
Looking beyond biology: glycosaminoglycans as attractive platforms for energy devices and flexible electronics
Glycosaminoglycans have quietly transitioned from biomaterials to advanced functional materials for energy devices and flexible electronics. Gathered here are 45 years of research highlighting both fundamental studies and recent advances and trends.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 1766-1843
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00155A
Challenges and opportunities using Ni-rich layered oxide cathodes in Li-ion rechargeable batteries: the case of nickel cobalt manganese oxides
Doping, coating, surface modification, formation of composites and control of crystalline orientation can control the capacity retention of Ni-rich cathodes. Furthermore, the design of Co-free Ni-rich cathodes may provide a cost-effective solution.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 1869-1893
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00631J
Recent progress in 2D inorganic non-conductive materials for alkali metal-based batteries
The recent progress in the strategies for the preparation of 2D inorganic non-conductive materials and their and application in alkali metal-based batteries is summarized in this review.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 1844-1868
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00209A
A review on the recent advances in the design and structure–activity relationship of TiO2-based photocatalysts for solar hydrogen production
The recent progress in visible light driven photocatalysis by describing the integration of TiO2 with variety of materials, and how it helps in tailoring electronic, structural and optical properties towards improved solar H2 production activity.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 1472-1504
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00249K
Dynamic synergy of tin in the electron-transfer layer and absorber layer for advancing perovskite solar cells: a comprehensive review
A schematic summary of this review highlights tin as an alternative to lead in perovskite solar cells. Lead toxicity limits its commercial potential, which tin perovskites can overcome with their enhanced optoelectronic properties.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 1505-1552
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00204K
Evaluation of zinc sulfide heterostructures as catalysts for the transformation of CO2 into valuable chemicals and clean energy generation
Zinc sulfide (ZnS) and doped ZnS have gained significant attention for the potential catalytic transformation of CO2 into useful compounds.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 1196-1221
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00202D
A review on the transition from conventional to bipolar designs of anode-less all-solid-state batteries
The review article discusses the transition from conventional battery to next-generation bipolar designs of anode-less all-solid-state batteries. The key elements, components and related technologies involved are discussed.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 1222-1237
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00138A
Soft carbon in non-aqueous rechargeable batteries: a review of its synthesis, carbonization mechanism, characterization, and multifarious applications
Soft carbon is a special class of carbon materials having tunable physical properties that makes it suitable for various battery applications.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 1167-1195
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00174E
Recent advancements in catalyst coated membranes for water electrolysis: a critical review
It is imperative to transition towards sustainable energy sources to mitigate the escalating threat of global warming and ameliorate the adverse impacts of climatic changes.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 1144-1166
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00143E
Rechargeable iron-ion (Fe-ion) batteries: recent progress, challenges, and perspectives
With the ever-increasing demand for efficient and sustainable energy solutions, rechargeable Fe-ion batteries have emerged as a viable alternative to conventional rechargeable batteries.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 927-944
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00101J
Recent trends on the application of phytochemical-based compounds as additives in the fabrication of perovskite solar cells
Phytochemical-based additives have functional groups that can modulate the nucleation and crystallization process of perovskite films resulting in improved optoelectronic and degradation resistance.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 741-764
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00025K
Possibilities and challenges of cathode materials for Zn-ion batteries
This thorough review explores the potential and obstacles related to cathode materials for zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs), providing insights into recent advancements, significant concerns, and prospective developments.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 676-688
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00638G
Porous covalent organic frameworks in photocatalytic ROS-mediated processes
Porous covalent organic frameworks towards photocatalytic ROS-mediated hydrogen peroxide production and organic substances degradation.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 712-740
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00082J
A comprehensive review of entropy engineered GeTe: an antidote to phase transformation
Driven by the burgeoning demand for high performance eco-friendly thermoelectric materials in the mid-temperature range (573–773 K), we herein focus on GeTe based alloys exhibiting high ZT of >2.0 owing to their promising band structure.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 689-711
https://doi.org/10.1039/D4YA00057A
Graphene-derived composites: a new Frontier in thermoelectric energy conversion
Diagram depicting the internal structure of various p-type and n-type legs in thermoelectric power generators.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 389-412
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00526G
MXene–carbon based hybrid materials for supercapacitor applications
Designing hybrid materials with superior electrochemical properties has attracted tremendous interest in recent years for energy-storage applications owing to a high demand for energy sources and the depletion of fossil fuel resources.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 341-365
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00502J
Improving plastic pyrolysis oil quality via an electrochemical process for polymer recycling: a review
In this review we discuss the application of electrochemical hydrogenation for pyrolysis oil upgrading, thus facilitating a circular polymer economy and low-carbon fuel production.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 366-388
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00389B
A review on the advancements of graphitic carbon nitride-based photoelectrodes for photoelectrochemical water splitting
This review offers a comprehensive depiction of g-C3N4-based materials for PEC water splitting. The fundamentals of PEC water splitting, along with the applications of g-C3N4-based materials as photoanodic and photocathodic materials are discussed.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 30-59
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00506B
Recent advances and perspectives of Ir-based anode catalysts in PEM water electrolysis
Recent advances and perspectives of Ir-based anode catalysts in PEM water electrolysis are highlighted, and it is concluded that the anti-dissolution and stability improvement of Ir active species should be carefully considered for catalyst design in the future.
Energy Adv., 2024,3, 14-29
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00492A
CdZnTe thin films as proficient absorber layer candidates in solar cell devices: a review
The CdZnTe is an efficient absorber to both single junction and tandem devices. This review presents an overview on associated development routes, characterization tools, developed devices and further recommendations for improving the performance.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 1980-2005
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00120B
High entropy materials—emerging nanomaterials for electrocatalysis
In this review, we present the key synthetic strategies for the preparation of high entropy materials and their applications in different electrocatalysis reactions.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 1800-1817
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00305A
Advancements in computational approaches for rapid metal site discovery in carbon-based materials for electrocatalysis
Computational approaches including quantum simulations, virtual high-throughput screening and machine learning accelerate the advance electrocatalysts discovery with proper accuracy and efficiency.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 1781-1799
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00321C
High-entropy materials for electrochemical energy storage devices
Lewis and co-workers review the use of high entropy materials in electrochemical energy storage devices.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 1565-1590
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00319A
Photothermal catalytic C1 conversion on supported catalysts
Photothermal catalysis is a promising method for converting C1 feedstocks into valuable chemicals. This comprehensive review highlights the mechanism, design strategies for catalysts, and recent progress in photothermal catalytic C1 conversion.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 1541-1564
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00315A
Hard carbons: potential anode materials for potassium ion batteries and their current bottleneck
In this review, we summarize the current mainstream research views on K+ storage mechanisms, obstacles and solutions.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 1294-1308
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00241A
Reviewing thermal conductivity aspects of solar salt energy storage
Reviewing thermal conductivity of solar salts with different nanoparticle additives; exploring experimental and theoretical methods.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 1309-1325
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00274H
Recent technological advances in designing electrodes and electrolytes for efficient zinc ion hybrid supercapacitors
Efficient ways of realizing energy and power dense rechargeable zinc ion hybrid supercapacitors (ZIHSCs) with advanced electrode and eletrolyte designing strategies have been reviewed.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 1263-1293
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00259D
Fourth-generation solar cells: a review
Solar cells have provided a solution to the prevailing energy crisis and environmental contamination in the ongoing energy-driven era because of their potential to utilize solar energy.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 1239-1262
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00179B
Synthetic approaches for perovskite thin films and single-crystals
Halide perovskites are compelling candidates for the next generation of photovoltaic technologies owing to an unprecedented increase in power conversion efficiency and their low cost, facile fabrication and outstanding semiconductor properties.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 1075-1115
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00098B
Nanostructured TiO2 for improving the solar-to-hydrogen conversion efficiency
Nanostructural engineering of TiO2 is an effective strategy to enhance its photoactivity. The different dimensional structured TiO2 and the effect of dimensionality on its photocatalytic performance were summarized.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 965-979
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00089C
Energy storage mechanism, advancement, challenges, and perspectives on vivid manganese redox couples
Manganese redox couples are a promising candidate for redox flow batteries due to their low cost, ecofriendliness, high standard reduction potential, and variable oxidation states.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 948-964
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00102D
Recent advances in electrospun fibers based on transition metal oxides for supercapacitor applications: a review
Recent advances in the role of electrospun nanofibers based on transition metal oxides in advanced supercapacitor applications, its challenges and progress towards the future “zero emission electric era” are highlighted in this review.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 922-947
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00067B
Machine learning in energy chemistry: introduction, challenges and perspectives
This review explores machine learning's role in energy chemistry, spanning organic photovoltaics, perovskites, catalysis, and batteries, highlighting its potential to accelerate eco-friendly, sustainable energy development.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 896-921
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00057E
Planar micro-supercapacitors toward high performance energy storage devices: design, application and prospects
The well-designed planar micro-supercapacitors can be manufactured through a variety of techniques for the applications in flexible electronics, biosensors, power grids and integrated chips.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 765-783
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00080J
Organic ionic plastic crystals: flexible solid electrolytes for lithium secondary batteries
This review introduces organic ionic plastic crystals (OIPCs) as Li-ion conductors and recent progress in the development of Li secondary batteries with OIPC-based solid electrolytes.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 748-764
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00078H
Review of the progress of solar-driven interfacial water evaporation (SIWE) toward a practical approach
Solar-driven interfacial water evaporation (SIWE) is a multipurpose practical, effective approach based on the photothermal effect to steam generation, desalination, wastewater treatment, salt production, and power generation leading to sustainability.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 574-605
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00028A
A comprehensive review of cathode materials for Na–air batteries
In recent years, rechargeable sodium–air batteries have attracted extensive attention and developed rapidly for electrochemical energy storage applications due to low costs, abundance of precursor resources, and high energy density.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 465-502
https://doi.org/10.1039/D2YA00340F
Machine learning-inspired battery material innovation
Data-driven machine learning is a proven technique for battery material discovery and enables the development of sustainable next-generation batteries.
Energy Adv., 2023,2, 449-464
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3YA00040K
About this collection
In addition to high quality research papers, Energy Advances features topical review articles. Reviews published in 2024 will be added to this webpage as soon as possible after publication.