Themed collection 2023 Materials Chemistry Frontiers Review-type Articles
Surface engineering in CsPbX3 quantum dots: from materials to solar cells
Summarized CsPbX3 QD surface engineering strategies to achieve high-efficiency and high-stability PQD solar cells.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 2029-2055
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00911D
Research progress of robust binders with superior mechanical properties for high-performance silicon-based lithium-ion batteries
The mechanical properties of binders are emphasized: the intrinsic mechanical properties of binders and the adhesive strength of the binders with current collectors and active materials. The electronic and ionic conductivities of binders are introduced.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 1480-1512
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00839H
Perovskite and layered perovskite oxynitrides for efficient sunlight-driven artificial synthesis
Perovskite and layered perovskite oxynitrides are regarded as promising visible-light-responsive semiconductors for efficient artificial photosynthesis to produce renewable value-added energy resources, including H2, formic acid, and ammonia.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 1451-1479
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM01019H
Functionalization of pillar[n]arenes towards optically responsive systems via host–guest interactions
In this review, we discuss progress in the field of pillar[n]arene-based optical response systems, focusing on color, fluorescence, circular dichroism, and circularly polarized luminescence signal changes via host–guest interactions.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 1212-1229
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM01176C
Recent advances on three-dimensional ordered macroporous metal oxide-based photoelectrodes for photoelectrochemical water splitting
Recent advances in 3DOM metal oxide-based photoelectrodes for PEC water splitting are summarized. The advantages of an ordered structure from the perspective of photo-electrocatalysis mechanism and morphological design are also introduced.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 1230-1249
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00990D
Recent advances in metal–organic frameworks for water absorption and their applications
Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are promising water adsorbents with a controllable absorption humidity range, superior water capacity, and tailorable regeneration conditions.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 1171-1194
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00484H
Research advances and applications of ZIF-90 metal–organic framework nanoparticles in the biomedical field
A schematic illustration of ZIF-90 nanocomposites applied to anticancer therapy, biomedical imaging and other fields for the treatment of different diseases.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 1195-1211
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM01020A
Metal–organic frameworks for electrocatalytic hydrogen peroxide production
This review summarizes the recent advances in the design of MOF-based 2e-ORR electrocatalysts for H2O2 production with the current challenges and future perspectives discussed, aiming to inspire the further development of this emerging field.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 1084-1100
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00972F
Recent advances in red-emissive carbon dots and their biomedical applications
This review mainly summarizes the research advances in synthetic strategies, optical properties, and biomedical applications of red-emissive carbon dots in recent years.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 930-955
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00968H
Recent advances in metal-based electrocatalysts: from fundamentals and structural regulations to applications in anion-exchange membrane fuel cells
We present a comprehensive understanding of the alkaline hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR), ammonium oxidation reaction (AOR), and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) based on metal catalysts for H2 or NH3-fueled alkaline exchange membrane fuel cells.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 903-929
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00947E
Reinforcing built-in electric field to enable efficient carrier extraction for high-performance perovskite solar cells
This review presents an overview of the carrier separation and extraction mechanism influenced by the built-in electric field (BEF) in PSCs and various strategies used to enhance the BEF.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 956-985
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00956D
Recent advances in transition metal phosphide-based heterostructure electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction
This paper reviews the recent advances in transition metal phosphide-based heterostructure electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 1064-1083
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00793F
Engineering interfacial architectures toward nitrate electrocatalysis and nitrogen neutral cycle
Interface engineering is an important way to prepare high performance catalysts. In this review, we discuss synthesis strategies, the main types of interface engineering for efficient nitrate electrocatalysis and their special effects.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 1015-1035
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM01038D
Solid-state electrolytes for inhibiting active species crossover in lithium metal batteries: a review
Solid-state electrolytes not only avoids volatility, flammability, and short-circuits, but also inhibits the crossover of active species in various lithium-metal batteries, such as Li–sulfur, Li–organic and Li–air batteries.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 1036-1063
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00850A
Two dimensional oxides for oxygen evolution reactions and related device applications
The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is a key anode reaction for many renewable energy devices, such as electrocatalytic water splitting devices, Zn–air batteries and CO2 electrolyzers.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 880-902
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00848G
Recent progress and perspective for oxygen evolution reaction under acidic environments
Proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers play a vital role in sustainable energy conversion and storage.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 986-1014
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00801K
Applications of multifunctional metal–organic frameworks in perovskite photovoltaics: roles, advantages and prospects
Recent progress of applications of multifunctional MOFs in achieving efficient, durable and eco-friendly perovskite photovoltaics is systematically reviewed, and the profound prospects of MOFs inadvancing development of optoelectronics are outlined.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 869-879
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM01001E
Self-assembled molecules as selective contacts for efficient and stable perovskite solar cells
In this review, we summarize the recent advances about self-assembled molecules (SAMs) applied as selective hole or electron contacts for perovskite solar cells.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 681-699
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM01017A
XPS depth profiling of functional materials: applications of ion beam etching techniques
X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy depth profiling combined with ion beam etching methods is a primary tool to study the chemical composition of functional materials at different scales from the surface to the bulk.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 715-731
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM01036H
The progress of in situ technology for lithium metal batteries
This paper summarizes and compares the principles, advantages and disadvantages of various characterization techniques for lithium batteries. The challenges faced by various characterization techniques and future development directions are also given.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 700-714
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00912B
Defect passivation engineering of wide-bandgap perovskites for high-performance solar cells
This article provides a comprehensive review of the strategies for passivating defects in wide-bandgap perovskite solar cells.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 800-813
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00970J
Interaction mechanism between water molecules and perovskites
By discussing the interactions between water and perovskites, this review offers both a theoretical foundation and practical guidance for enhancing the stability and optoelectronic performance of perovskite photovoltaic devices.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 785-799
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00969F
Panchromatic porphyrin-based dye-sensitized solar cells: from cosensitization to concerted companion dye approaches
In this review, cosensitization, concerted companion and other strategies, enabling porphyrin sensitizers to achieve panchromatic absorption and the resulting high photovoltaic performance, are briefly summarized and discussed.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 652-680
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00770G
Recent advances in polyoxometalate-based materials and their derivatives for electrocatalysis and energy storage
This review highlights the significant roles of POMs in electrocatalysis and energy storage, and summarizes the recent advances of POM-based materials and their derivatives in water-splitting, the CO2RR, the NRR, SCs, and rechargeable batteries.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 732-768
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM01000G
Acceptor–donor–acceptor based thermally activated delayed fluorescent materials: structure–property insights and electroluminescence performances
Thermally activated delayed fluorescent (TADF) materials shown great attention in Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs). Herein, we have systematically reviewed the Acceptor–Donor–Acceptor based TADF materials with electroluminescent characteristics.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 769-784
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM01125A
Recent progress in bimetallic carbide-based electrocatalysts for water splitting
This review provides recent progresses in bimetallic carbides (Bi-TMCs) catalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in water splitting.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 627-651
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00819C
Advances in the mechanism investigation for the oxygen evolution reaction: fundamental theory and monitoring techniques
Fundamental theory and monitoring techniques of the OER mechanism: a review.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 603-626
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00935A
Towards separator safety of lithium-ion batteries: a review
The recent advance of high-safety separators with high mechanical strength, high thermal stability and good lithium dendritic resistance is the main focus in this review. The future challenges and perspectives of separators are provided for building high safety rechargeable lithium batteries.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 309-340
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00951C
Recent progress on 2D material-based nanoarchitectures for small molecule electro-oxidation
In this review, we comprehensively summarize the recent advancements in the controlled fabrication as well as relationship between 2D nanoarchitectures and electrochemical performances in the electro-oxidation of small molecules used in DLFC.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 404-433
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00905J
Engineering the spin configuration of electrocatalysts for electrochemical renewable conversions
This review focuses on the recent advances in spin-related catalysts to provide an insightful view of the origins of the enhanced catalytic activity.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 528-552
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00841J
Anti-freezing multifunctional conductive hydrogels: from structure design to flexible electronic devices
In this review, we systematically provide an overview of anti-freezing multifunctional conductive hydrogel-based flexible electronics and summarize the design strategies, properties, applications and perspectives.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 381-403
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00902E
Functional dielectric materials for high-performance solid-state batteries
Functional dielectric materials can regulate the migration, diffusion and deposition of cations in solid-state batteries, leading to high performance.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 354-380
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00964E
Recent progress in iron-series-element-based electrocatalysts for Zn–air batteries
This review has summarized recent iron series elements-based electrocatalysts (ISEEs) progress for Zn–air batteries, and the advantages, challenges, and improvement strategies relating to monometallic, dual, and ternary ISEEs are discussed.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 485-506
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00732D
Polypyrrole micro/nanostructures and their soft materials in versatile forms: construction and applications
Key issues regarding the syntheses of polypyrrole nanomaterials and their recent application were discussed. Polypyrrole derived dispersions, hydrogels, membranes and composites were outlined by considering improved conductivity and processability.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 434-454
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00826F
Solid hybrid electrolytes based on conductive oxides and polymer electrolytes for all-solid-lithium batteries
This article provides an overview of solid hybrid electrolytes based on Li+-conductive oxide and polymer electrolyte for all-solid-state lithium batteries and discusses their composition, conduction mechanism, progress, and perspectives.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 455-484
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00736G
Theoretical progress of MXenes as electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction
We reviewed recent theoretical progress in MXenes as HER electrocatalysts, covering structural and electronic properties, terminal group tunability, heteroatom doping, crucial activity descriptors, and advances in theoretical computational methods.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 507-527
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00783A
Coupling electrochemical CO2 reduction with value-added anodic oxidation reactions: progress and challenges
This review presents recent advances and future challenges of emerging and potential alternative anodic reactions with high energy-efficiency and value-added products in overall CO2 electrolysis.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 341-353
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00625E
Nano-based theranostic approaches for infection control: current status and perspectives
Nano-based theranostic platforms constructed from various nanomaterials possess unique advantages in tackling bacterial and fungal infections while detecting pathogenic cells, making them a potential modality for addressing global healthcare burdens.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 9-40
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM01048A
Metal porphyrins and metal phthalocyanines as designable molecular model electrocatalysts
The application of metal porphyrins and metal phthalocyanines as model catalysts in electrocatalytic reactions provides important insights into understanding the catalytic mechanism and structure–activity relationship.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 228-247
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00844D
Recent progress on MRI probes for metal ion detection and biological applications
The disorder of metal ion levels can have a significant impact on the ecological environment and human health due to their crucial role in complex biological metabolism processes and the overall ecological balance. Multiple magnetic resonance probes are used for detecting these metal ions.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 248-264
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00523B
Colorful variation of tetraphenylethene derivatives in the solid state
This review provides a clear overview of the multi-stimuli responsive properties of tetraphenylethene derivatives in the solid state.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 104-132
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00621B
Critical challenges and opportunities for the commercialization of alkaline electrolysis: high current density, stability, and safety
Alkaline electrolysis technology, which enables the production of “green hydrogen,” holds significant importance in the global pursuit of carbon neutrality.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 41-81
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00730H
Transition metal ion-doped cesium lead halide perovskite nanocrystals: doping strategies and luminescence design
We herein briefly review the recent advances in transition metal ion-doped cesium lead halide perovskite nanocrystals including the typical strategies for effective doping and optical properties manipulation.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 192-209
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00691C
Sub-nanometric materials for hydrogen evolution reaction
With the development of renewable and clean energy, hydrogen energy is booming as an alternative to fossil energy.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 159-178
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00586K
The role of organic spacers in 2D/3D hybrid perovskite solar cells
This review highlights the crucial role of organic spacers in the fabrication process and formation mechanism of different types of 2D/3D perovskites for PSCs including the bulk incorporation model, surface treatment model, and the coexisting model.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 82-103
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00726J
Materials design and applications of n-type and ambipolar organic electrochemical transistors
With the rapid development of n-type and ambipolar OECT materials, OECTs have been widely used in constructing logic circuits, electrophysiological recording, biosensing, and neuromorphic computing.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 133-158
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00828B
High-entropy catalysts: new opportunities toward excellent catalytic activities
High-entropy catalysts (HECs) have been increasingly used in various catalytic applications.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2024,8, 179-191
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00638G
A critical review on amorphous–crystalline heterostructured electrocatalysts for efficient water splitting
This review presents comprehensive details on recent developments in the fabrication of different amorphous–crystalline heterostructures, their compositions, and the resulting physicochemical properties for OER, HER, and overall water splitting.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6254-6280
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00940H
Effects of metal size on supported catalysts for CO2 hydrogenation
Tuning the metal size in loaded catalysts to increase the activity and selectivity of desirable products in CO2 hydrogenation is widely investigated in heterogeneous catalysis.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6411-6426
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00384A
Recent advances in mechanistic understanding and catalyst design for alkaline hydrogen evolution reactions
This review presents recent progress in alkaline HERs, covering mechanistic insights, catalyst development, and device performance. It also addresses challenges and future directions for high-performance alkaline HER catalysts.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6366-6388
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00600J
Paradigm in single-atom electrocatalysts for dinitrogen reduction to ammonia
Single-atom catalysts (SACs) are a new class of electrocatalysts for the electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6427-6445
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00269A
Emerging porous materials for carbon dioxide adsorptive capture: progress and challenges
The applications of porous adsorbents with tailored pore microenvironment and functionality for CO2 capture under important scenarios such as flue streams, biogas and direct air capture and efficient regeneration technologies are demonstrated.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6463-6482
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00705G
Progress in optical properties of chiral metal clusters: circular dichroism and circularly polarized luminescence
This review aims to elucidate how the regulation of chiral metal cluster structures affects their circular dichroism or circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) signals, with the ultimate objective of providing a reference for the rational design of CPL materials in the future.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6389-6410
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00747B
DNA as highly biocompatible carriers for drug delivery
This review aims to provide an overview of existing research on the use of various nucleic acid-based nanocarriers for drug delivery and summarize recent advances, including targeting strategies of DNA-based carriers, and the types of drugs that can be incorporated into the carriers.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6345-6365
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00395G
Polymer-based electrolytes for solid-state lithium batteries with a wide operating temperature range
Polymer-based electrolytes with regulated molecular structures demonstrate excellent temperature tolerance and are ideal for solid-state lithium batteries.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6305-6317
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00759F
Fullerene-derived nanocomposite as an efficient electrocatalyst for overall water splitting and Zn–air battery
In this paper, synthesis methods of fullerene-based electrocatalysts, their performance and their possible catalytic mechanism are reviewed and discussed. Development of novel fullerene-based catalysts for future investigation are also discussed briefly.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6446-6462
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00723E
Acid-scavenging separators promise long-term cycling stability of lithium-ion batteries
Acid-scavenging separators are an efficient way to inhibit the acidification of traditional LiPF6-containing electrolytes. This paper reviews the development and achievements of acid-scavenging separators to enhance their practical application capabilities and future developments.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6318-6344
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00709J
Advances in organic field-effect transistors based on metal–organic coordination materials and applications
The recent developments in organic field-effect transistors based on metal–organic coordination materials and related applications are reviewed.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6281-6304
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00720K
3D shape morphing of stimuli-responsive composite hydrogels
Programmable 3D shape morphing of stimuli-responsive hydrogels is of great interest for the fabrication of soft actuators and robots. The corporation of hydrogel matrices and functional additives is discussed in this review.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 5989-6034
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00856H
Cross-linking strategies for hole transport/emissive layers in quantum-dot light-emitting diodes
To avoid the interlayer erosion challenge in the IJP process and direct patterning process of the QD emissive layer (EML), cross-linking strategies have been introduced to construct solvent-resistant films (hole transport layers or QD EMLs) upon exposure to heat or light.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6130-6140
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00831B
Rational design of efficient electrocatalysts for hydrogen production by water electrolysis at high current density
Challenges and design strategies of electrocatalysts for high-current–density water electrolysis.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6035-6060
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00722G
Practical challenges and future perspectives of solid polymer electrolytes: microscopic structure and interface design
Reviewing the performance improving strategies of solid polymer electrolytes from the microscopic perspective.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 5963-5988
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00784G
Heterostructured 2D material-based electro-/photo-catalysts for water splitting
An overview of recent advances in 2D materials-based electrocatalysts with hetero-layered structures is provided, along with research examples to demonstrate their versatility.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6154-6187
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00566F
Application of MOF-derived materials as electrocatalysts for CO2 conversion
This review summarizes the four main synthesis strategies of MOF-derived materials, and the feasibility and challenges of MOF-derived materials in ECO2RR are discussed.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6107-6129
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00835E
Variable halide perovskites: diversification of anti-counterfeiting applications
This review emphasizes how the dimensionality, coordination number and bond length of halide perovskites (HPs) regulate their photoluminescence. HPs have good application potential due to their sensitivity to light, solvent, heat etc., facilitating anti-counterfeiting and encryption/decryption.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6085-6106
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00595J
Recent advances in designing solid-state electrolytes to reduce the working temperature of lithium batteries
This review paper summarizes the current methods to reduce the operating temperature of solid-state lithium batteries.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6061-6084
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00662J
Dimension-dependent intrinsic point defect characteristics of binary photovoltaic materials
Because the absorption layer materials in solar cells have different dimensions, they have different material properties. Defect formation energy can increase with the increase of material dimensions.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6188-6201
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00333G
Recent advances in regulating the excited states of conjugated thermally activated delayed fluorescence polymers for high-efficiency OLEDs
Several methods are summarized for controlling the excited states of TADF conjugated polymers, covering: (a) maintaining suitable ΔEST; (b) localized triplet excited state assisted reverse intersystem crossing; (c) hyperfine coupling facilitates reverse intersystem crossing.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 6141-6153
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00799E
A review of polymers in sulfide-based hybrid solid-state electrolytes for all-solid-state lithium batteries
The practical application of hybrid solid-state electrolytes involves the incorporation of polymers. This review focuses on the fabrication process of sheet-type solid-state electrolytes utilizing appropriate polymer binders.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 5475-5499
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00729D
Recent progress in metal–organic frameworks for the separation of gaseous hydrocarbons
This review highlights recent research progress in MOF materials for the important separation of gaseous hydrocarbons, especially for ethylene, propylene, and butadiene. The uniqueness of MOFs to achieve those progress is also outlined.
Mater. Chem. Front., 2023,7, 5693-5730
https://doi.org/10.1039/D3QM00430A
About this collection
Critical reviews and chemistry frontiers articles published in Materials Chemistry Frontiers during 2023 are collated as below for the benefit of readers.