Progress in Chemistry

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Sulfate Radicals: A New Tool for Enhancing Sludge Dewatering

Yue Lai, Chao Wang, Jie Zhang, Shungui Zhou, Changgeng Liu, Jie Ye

DOI: 10.7536/PC230707

Accepted: 15 April 2024

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Abstract

Sludge is an inevitable by-product of the wastewater treatment process. Due to its high water content, large volume, and a large amount of toxic and hazardous substances, therefore it needs to be minimization and harmless treatment. However, sludge possesses extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) formed by ionization of negatively charged functional groups, which maintain a stable hydrated colloidal structure and prevent the release of water. This is a key factor in the difficulty of sludge dewatering. In the last decade, sulfate radical-based advanced oxidation processes (SR-AOPs) have received considerable attention due to their high efficiency for EPS disintegration, rapid reaction time and environmental friendliness, and thus sulfate radicals have become a new powerful tool for enhancing sludge dewaterability. In this paper, the development timeline and activation mechanisms of sulfate radicals were reviewed in detail, and the research advances of SR-AOPs for improving sludge dewaterability and removing micropollutants and heavy metals from sludge were systematically evaluated. Based on the current scientific problems of SR-AOPs in sludge conditioning, the future research directions of SR-AOPs were proposed from the perspectives of mechanism research, cost-effectiveness, and experimental scale, in order to provide a solid theoretical reference for sludge conditioning in wastewater treatment plants in China.

Enhancing Lithium Ion Battery Anode Performance through Electrospinning Applications

Sichang Ma, Dongyang Li, Rui Xu

DOI: 10.7536/PC230709

Accepted: 15 April 2024

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Abstract

The rapid advancement of large-scale energy storage devices has spurred the need for research focused on achieving higher energy density in lithium-ion batteries. Within this context, anode materials, which are crucial components of lithium-ion batteries, play a critical role in attaining enhanced energy density. Unfortunately, commercially available graphite anodes suffer from limitations such as low theoretical capacity, poor rate capability, and a low voltage plateau. Consequently, there is an urgent requirement to develop alternative anode materials that can meet these demands. Electrospinning has emerged as a popular method for fabricating electrode materials due to its simplicity, cost-effectiveness, and ability to produce flexible nanofibers. This technique offers several advantages, including the ability to tailor nanomaterials with diverse morphologies by adjusting key parameters. Furthermore, electrospinning enables the creation of nanomaterials with large specific surface areas, high mechanical strength, flexibility, and self-supporting properties. Consequently, it has garnered significant interest in the field of anode material preparation for lithium-ion batteries. This paper aims to provide an overview of the research progress in utilizing electrospinning for the preparation of anode materials in lithium-ion batteries. It covers various categories of anode materials, including carbon-based, titanium-based, silicon-based, tin-based, and other metallic compound materials. Additionally, the paper outlines the future directions and potential advancements in the development of electrospun anode materials. By exploring the applications of electrospinning in anode material preparation, this paper contributes to the understanding and advancement of lithium-ion battery technology, offering insights into the potential of electrospinning as a versatile and effective technique for enhancing anode performance.

Research on the Application of Metal-organic Framework Materials in the Field of Energy Storage

Hanlin Shen, Min Dai, Zhuo Li, Yunan Tian, Tianwei Li, Xianwei Hu

DOI: 10.7536/PC230823

Accepted: 15 April 2024

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Abstract

Due to the characteristics of large specific surface area, porosity, adjustable structure and easy modification, metal-organic framework materials and their derivatives are widely used in electrode materials, separators, electrocatalysts and other energy storage materials. However, there are still many problems in the practical application of MOFs. This paper reviews the latest developments in the application of MOFs and their derived materials in energy storage devices such as alkali metal ion batteries, metal chalcogenide batteries, aqueous zinc ion batteries, and supercapacitors, and proposes design solutions for problems such as dendrite growth and shuttle effects that often occur in secondary batteries. In addition, the design ideas of MOFs-derived carbon material heterostructure and metal compound structure modification are also summarized. Finally, the intrinsic regulation of MOFs precursors and the modification strategies of derived materials are summarized and prospected.

Research Progress of Biomaterials Based on Lignocellulose

Bin Xu, Jianguo Liu, Xinghua Zhang, Lungang Chen, Qi Zhang, Longlong Ma

DOI: 10.7536/PC230903

Accepted: 15 April 2024

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Abstract

With the continuous depletion of fossil energy and the continuous destruction of the ecological environment, the development of environmentally friendly renewable electrochemical energy storage devices and biomedical materials is particularly urgent. As an important renewable resource, lignocellulosic biomass has the advantages of low cost, easy accessibility, environmental friendliness, and rich pore structure, and it has a wide range of application prospects as a renewable, biodegradable, and biocompatible substrate for excellent modified materials. In this paper, the latest research progress in preparing biomass-derived materials for high-performance energy storage devices and biomedical fields is summarized and outlooked, and the problems and challenges are also pointed out.

Applications of Graphene in Hydrogen Evolution Electrocatalyst

Yiming Zhang, Jianping Guo, Jiale Zhang, Aowen Zheng, Yanyan Wang, Guangke Tian

DOI: 10.7536/PC230905

Accepted: 15 April 2024

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Abstract

Developing hydrogen energy is an important direction in the future. Industrialized scale electrolysis of water for hydrogen production requires the use of low-cost hydrogen evolution electrocatalyst materials to reduce its overpotential. Graphene has shown broad application prospects in hydrogen evolution electrocatalyst materials due to its large specific surface area, excellent conductivity, good stability, adjustable electronic structure, and easy modification of structure and surface state. This article provides a detailed analysis of the mechanism of graphene application in hydrogen evolution electrocatalysis. Based on different mechanisms, graphene-based hydrogen evolution electrocatalyst materials were classified and their latest research progress was reviewed. Finally, the future development direction of graphene-based hydrogen evolution electrocatalytic materials was prospected.

Preparation and Application Progress of Inherent Flame-Retardant Polyurethane Foams

Zhicheng Fu, Luping Feng, Wei Luo, Ting Wang, Jinni Deng, Wenli An, Mingjun Chen

DOI: 10.7536/PC230907

Accepted: 15 April 2024

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Abstract

Polyurethane foam, as one of the most important and widely used synthetic polymers since the 20th century, exhibits advantages such as low density, high strength, and excellent thermal insulation. It finds widespread applications in fields like aerospace noise reduction, railway track stabilization, and building insulation. However, its high flammability poses a serious threat to human life and property, limiting its further development. The addition or surface coating of flame retardants can indeed enhance the flame retardancy of polyurethane foam efficiently. However, these methods often result in the migration and precipitation of flame retardants, ultimately compromising its flame retardant properties and internal performance. Alternatively, the copolymerization of reactive flame retardant molecules into the polymer chain offers a more effective solution. This approach not only addresses the issues of flame retardant migration and precipitation but also minimizes the impact on the substrate's properties. As a result, it is highly favored by the industry and holds immense potential for future engineering applications. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of various methods for the preparation of intrinsic flame-retardant polyurethane foams over the past decade, focusing on the perspective of monomer molecular design and synthesis. This includes polyol modifications, isocyanate modifications, additive modifications, and other modifications. Furthermore, the review will delve into the challenges that remain to be addressed and offer insights into potential future directions for application development.

MOFs based photoelectrochemical sensing interface and its applications

Cunyin Zhou, Juan Huang, Qiong Wang, Hao Tang, Yunchu Hu, Wenlei Wang

DOI: 10.7536/PC230913

Accepted: 15 April 2024

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Abstract

Photoelectrochemical sensing analysis is a rapidly developing new analytical technology in recent years, and the photoelectric active materials are the key to photoelectrochemical sensing detection. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and their derivatives may be ideal carriers for the construction of photoelectrochemical sensing interfaces by dispersing photoelectrically active substances. Due to the "antenna effect" of organic ligands in MOFs, the metal clusters can be regarded as activated discrete semiconductor quantum dots, giving them photoelectric properties similar to those of semiconductors. The modification of MOFs materials with carbon-based compounds, organic polymers, noble metal nanoparticles, inorganic oxides, quantum dots, and the construction of MOFs-based photoelectrochemical sensing interfaces, can improve the electrical conductivity of MOFs, promote the separation of photogenerated electrons - holes, and thus improve the photoelectric conversion efficiency. The MOFs based photoelectrochemical sensing interfaces amplify the signal generated by photoelectrochemical sensing, enabling ultra sensitive detection of the target object. Based on these, this paper provides a detailed introduction to the photoelectric activity mechanism, synthesis methods, and strategies for constructing photoelectric activity interfaces of MOFs based materials. The applications of MOFs based materials in photoelectrochemical sensing detection of small molecule compounds, immunoassay, enzyme activity and environmental analysis in recent years are comprehensively reviewed. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives in this field are also proposed.

MXene-Based Composite Materials：Synthesis and Photoelectrocatalysis for Ammonia Synthesis

Tao Sun, Tiantian Sun, Ming Lu, Sun Wei, Chunbo Liu

DOI: 10.7536/PC230914

Accepted: 15 April 2024

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Abstract

In recent years, the problems of environmental pollution and energy scarcity have affected human life, and the green and low-carbon photocatalytic and electrocatalytic technologies have attracted widespread attention. Semiconductor-based photocatalytic and electrocatalytic technologies are very promising for ammonia synthesis applications. Since single semiconductors suffer from the disadvantages of low carrier separation efficiency and easy compounding, it is crucial to find co-catalysts that can enhance the performance of nitrogen fixation catalysts. Two-dimensional transition metal carbide/nitride/carbon nitride MXene, which have a promising application in photo- and electrocatalytic ammonia synthesis, are ideal for photo- and electrocatalytic nitrogen fixation owing to their good hydrophilicity, large specific surface area, excellent electrical conductivity and abundance of active sites for efficient catalysis of N₂ reduction. This paper mainly reviews the preparation of MXene and its composites and their progress in the field of photoelectrocatalytic ammonia synthesis. Firstly, the structural features of MXene and the preparation strategies of MXene and its complexes are briefly summarised. Secondly, the performance study of MXene-based composite catalysts for photo- and electrocatalytic ammonia synthesis is highlighted. Finally, the development direction of MXene-based composites is discussed and prospected.

Selective Hydrogenation of Acetylene: from Thermal Catalysis to Electrocatalysis, Photocatalysis and Photothermal Catalysis

Baisheng Pang, Yingying Xing, Ruihong Gao, Yaohua Fang, Haijun Zhang, Liang Huang

DOI: 10.7536/PC231104

Accepted: 15 April 2024

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Abstract

Ethylene is one of the most important raw materials in the modern petrochemical industry. The preparation of ethylene by steam cracking of petroleum hydrocarbons generates acetylene with a volume fraction about 0.3% to 3%. These trace amounts of acetylene can poison the catalyst of the ethylene polymerization reaction. Selective catalytic hydrogenation of acetylene is considered to be one of the most effective methods for removing acetylene impurities. This paper reviews the research progress of acetylene selective hydrogenation in recent years, introduces the reaction mechanism of acetylene hydrogenation, and summarizes the effects of catalyst active components, additives and carriers on the performance of acetylene selective hydrogenation. The development trend of how to further improve the performance of acetylene selective hydrogenation is discussed from the perspectives of electrocatalysis, photocatalysis and photothermal catalysis. Finally, some suggestions are proposed for the subsequent research on the selective hydrogenation of acetylene.

Progress in the Study of Exhaled Gas Fingerprinting in Diabetes

Haoping Wu, Lei Li, Rui Zeng, Yuchen Zhu, Bin Zhao, Fei Feng

DOI: 10.7536/PC231110

Accepted: 15 April 2024

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Abstract

In recent years, there has been a significant surge of interest in exploring exhaled gas detection within the context of diabetes research. This burgeoning field has attracted considerable attention due to its potential implications for the early detection and management of diabetes mellitus. Through a comprehensive synthesis of 114 pertinent scholarly works, researchers have delved into the intricate association between diabetes mellitus and exhaled gas detection. Leveraging state-of-the-art detection and analysis methodologies, including gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, spectroscopy, and sensor-based detection systems. This review provides an overview of the composition of some volatile organic compounds and their sources in the exhaled gas of diabetic patients. Furthermore, the application of machine learning-based algorithms has been scrutinized for its potential to facilitate predictive modeling of diabetes risk and associated complications. This comprehensive review also examines the national and international landscape of the development and application of exhaled gas detection methodologies in diabetes research, offering critical insights into current limitations and potential avenues for future research and application.

Synthesis and Modification of Single-Crystal High-Nickel Ternary Cathode Materials

Hanfeng Wu, Jiushuai Deng, Jinkun Wang, Jinli Liu, Yingqiang Wu, Li Wang, Xiangming He

DOI: 10.7536/PC231112

Accepted: 15 April 2024

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Abstract

With the rapid development of portable electronic products and electric vehicles, the demand for high energy density lithium-ion batteries is increasing. High-nickel ternary materials with nickel content higher than 0.6 (include) (e.g. LiNi_0.6Co_0.2Mn_0.2O₂, LiNi_0.8Co_0.1Mn_0.1O₂ and LiNi_0.9Co_0.05Mn_0.05O₂), which can deliver a high reversible specific capacity of more than 200 mAh g^-1 at an upper cut-off voltage of 4.3 V vs. Li⁺/Li, are an important development direction of cathode material with high specific capacity. However, the weak mechanical strength and low compaction density of polycrystal ternary materials and the anisotropy of primary grains lead to intergranular cracks in the polycrystal particles during the charging and discharging process. The electrolyte will penetrate into the polycrystal particles along the intergranular cracks, thus aggravating the side reaction between the electrode and electrolyte and deteriorating the cycle performance and safety of the battery. The design of single crystal material without grain boundary can reduce the formation of intergranular cracks, effectively suppress the side reaction at the interfaces and improve the cycle stability. In this paper, the advantages and problems of single-crystal high-nickel ternary materials are reviewed, and their synthe-sis methods and modification strategies are analyzed. Finally, the application prospects and challenges of ingle-crystal high-nickel ternary materials are reviewed and prospected.

Catalytic transformation of biomass-based platform compounds to pentanediols

Jiahui Deng, Yi Liu, Liangqing Zhang, Jiarong Qiu, Jianfeng Chen, Xianhai Zeng

DOI: 10.7536/PC231118

Accepted: 15 April 2024

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Abstract

Pentanediols (1,2-pentanediol, 1,4-pentanediol, and 1,5-pentanediol, etc.) are significant pharmaceutical chemicals that are used extensively worldwide. In addition to serving as an intermediate for the fungicide propiconazole and in the production of cosmetic products, they are also employed as key components in the manufacture of surfactants, polyester fibers, and pharmaceutical products. With the development of domestic and foreign markets in recent years, there has been growing demand for pentanediols production. Conventionally, the industrial production of pentanediols relies on non-renewable fossil resources, posing significant environmental concerns. Hence, the catalytic conversion of renewable biomass-based feedstocks to produce pentanediols represents a green production process, promising a brighter application prospect and research significance. This article provides a comprehensive review of recent studies on the catalytic transformation of biomass-based feedstocks (such as xylose, furfural, furfuryl alcohol, tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, gamma-valerolactone, and levulinic acid) for pentanediols production. A detailed summary of the catalysts employed for pentanediols synthesis is presented, encompassing various catalytic systems (noble and non-noble metals), reaction mechanisms, pathways, reaction conditions, and catalyst stability. On this basis, perspectives are offered on refining the biomass-derived pentanediols production process, considering sustainability and economics, etc. This review aims to furnish theoretical guidance and beneficial references for further developing novel, efficient, green, and stable catalytic systems.

Microfluidic-based vasculatures on chip: methods and recent progress

Fangtian Wang, Liang Zhao, Guangsheng Guo, Xiayan Wang

DOI: 10.7536/PC240121

Accepted: 15 April 2024

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Abstract

Microvasculature-on-a-chip, utilizing microfluidic technology, has emerged as a significant in vitro tool for simulating both the normal and disease states of blood vessel networks. In our review, we highlight the efficacy of microfluidic platforms in accurately reproducing the microenvironment of human blood vessels. We outline a range of methodologies employed to fabricate vascular networks in vitro, focusing on the use of endothelial cells within microfluidic structures. For each method, we provide an assessment of recent examples, critically evaluating their strengths and drawbacks. Furthermore, we delve into the outlook and the innovative advancements anticipated for next-generation vascular-on-a-chip models and the broader field of chip-based tissue engineering.

Research Progress of Cu-based Catalysts for Electrocatalytic Nitrate Reduction

Changzheng Lin, Jinwei Zhu, Weijia Li, Hao Chen, Jiangtao Feng, Wei Yan

DOI: 10.7536/PC240123

Accepted: 15 April 2024

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Abstract

In recent years, electrocatalytic nitrate reduction (ENitRR) has attracted considerable attention in the synthesis of ammonia at ambient conditions. Compared to the traditional Haber-Bosch process for ammonia synthesis, ENitRR offers lower energy consumption and milder reaction conditions. The design and optimization of ENitRR electrocatalysts are crucial for nitrate deoxygenation and hydrogenation. Copper-based catalytic materials have been widely studied due to their unique structure, low cost, and excellent performance, making them highly promising electrocatalysts through various morphology and electronic structure modulation strategies. This article summarizes various effective design strategies using copper-based electrocatalysts as a typical example to enhance the ammonia production rate and conversion efficiency in ENitRR. It also introduces the reaction mechanism and the relationship between structural changes in Cu-based electrocatalysts and their performance. These strategies include morphology modulation, alloy engineering, lattice phase tuning, single-atom structures, as well as copper compound construction and composites with other materials. Finally, challenges faced by copper-based electrocatalysts are discussed along with future research directions that should be focused on in order to provide reference for researchers engaged in nitrate treatment in aqueous systems.

Research Progress of Ecotoxicology of PPCP Pollutants

Chuanzi Gao, Haolin Liao, Yibo Wang, Yi Zheng, Chunmiao Zheng, Wenhui Qiu

DOI: 10.7536/PC240127

Accepted: 15 April 2024

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Abstract

Pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) are a large category of emerging pollutants that have been highly concerned in recent years. The huge production and rapid consumption demand of PPCPs make them widely enter and highly exist in various environmental medium. Due to migration, transformation and bioaccumulation, PPCPs enter the ecological environment, causing different degrees of negative impact on organisms and human bodies, which thus bringing serious threats to the ecological environment and human health. In this review, we summarize the exposure sources, pathways and characteristics of current PPCPs in the environment, conclude the degradation method and pathway of PPCPs in the environment, review the main biotoxicity of PPCPs, overview the exposure concentrations and the health influences on human body, and finally have some outlooks on the research field of ecotoxicity of PPCPs.

Advances in intracellular single strand DNA research and high-throughput analysis techniques

Ruiqi Li, Weiyi Lai, Hailin Wang

DOI: 10.7536/PC240304

Accepted: 15 April 2024

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Abstract

During many life processes such as replication, transcription, and double-strand breaks repair and so on, double-stranded DNA will temporarily unwind and form single strand DNA (ssDNA). ssDNA may affect genomic stability and may also participate in the formation of non-B DNA structure, which in turn regulates and influences many key cellular processes. This review briefly describes the causes of the formation of single-stranded DNA, the structures containing single-stranded DNA and their possible functions in cells, and summarizes some high-throughput analysis techniques of single-stranded DNA, which provides the method inspiration for the subsequent ssDNA research and promotes the further development of ssDNA analysis techniques and methods．

Research progress of nanofiber composite hydrogels

Yvqing Ma, Zheng Li, Guobao Zheng, Songnan Zhang, Jixian Gong, Changsheng Qiao

DOI: 10.7536/PC240305

Accepted: 15 April 2024

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Abstract

Hydrogels have become one of the most widely researched materials across disciplines due to their excellent softness, wettability, responsiveness and biocompatibility. However, the mechanical properties of hydrogels are poor and cannot meet the use as some special materials. Nanofibers have been used to prepare nanofiber composite hydrogels with nano-size, porous structure and tunable mechanical properties due to their high aspect ratio, uniform fiber morphology and easy functionalization. Nanofiber composite hydrogels have suitable mechanical properties, ductility, adhesion, and the ability to mimic the microstructure of the extracellular matrix (ECM) and the microenvironment of the cell, which makes them widely used in many fields. This paper summarizes the classification of nanofiber composite hydrogels, their preparation methods and their development and application in the fields of multifunctional wound dressings, tissue engineering, sensors, and filter absorption materials its future development.

Research Progress of Covalent Organic Frameworks in Photocatalytic Organic Reactions

Jingyi Wang, Xin Xu, Shijia Zheng, Pifeng Wei, Wankai An

DOI: 10.7536/PC230824

Accepted: 15 April 2024

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Abstract

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have become one of the research focuses currently in porous materials due to their excellent photocatalytic activity. Compared with other heterogeneous photocatalysts, COFs possess regular and controllable structures, large specific surface areas, uniform pore channels and good chemical/thermal stability. Additionally, COFs have suitable band structures, adjustable absorption range, and are easy to be functionalized and recovered/reused after the reactions. The advantages above surely endow COFs with potential value in fundamental researches and industrial applications. In recent years, the application of COFs in photocatalysis has gained rapid progress, especially in the field of photocatalytic organic transformations. Theses significant works have greatly promoted the development of COFs. In this review, numerous synthesis strategies for photo-functionalized COFs are briefly introduced, e.g., “bottom-up” strategy, post modification and combination method. Then, the photocatalytic reaction mechanisms mediated by COFs are condensed into two pathways, i.e., energy transfer and electron transfer. The latest research progress of COFs as photocatalysts in photocatalytic selective oxidation reaction (oxidation of amines to imines, preparation of sulfoxides through selective oxidation of sulfides, oxidation hydroxylation of arylboronic acids to phenols, and oxidation of N-aryl tetrahydroisoquinoline), reduction reaction (reductive dehalogenation, hydrogenation of nitrobenzene, and hydrogenation of styrene), coupling reaction (C-C cross-dehydrogenative coupling reaction, C-N cross-coupling reaction, and C-S cross-coupling reaction), cyclization reaction, polymerization reaction and asymmetric organic synthesis etc., are succinctly outlined and discussed. Finally, the application of COFs in photocatalysis is summarized and prospected.

“Environmental Catalytic City”: Concept and Research Prospects

Jinzhu Ma, Biwu Chu, Qingxin Ma, Guangzhi He, Qian Liu, Shuxiao Wang, Kebin He, Jincai Zhao, Hong He

DOI: 10.7536/PC24021

Accepted: 19 March 2024

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Abstract

Air pollution is a major challenge for the improvement of urban environmental quality. The process of urbanization is an important cause of highly complex air pollution, on the other hand it also provides artificial reinforcement conditions for self-purification of air pollutants in cities. "Environmental catalytic city" refers to the spontaneous catalytic purification of low concentration gaseous pollutants in the atmosphere by catalytic materials coating on the artificial surfaces, such as building surfaces in the city under natural photothermal conditions. "Environmental catalytic city" is of great significance for the control of complex air pollution without additional energy consumption, the continuous improvement of indoor and outdoor air quality, and the scheme and construction of " self-purifying city". Here, we propose the concept of “environmental catalytic city”, and discuss its further improvement, development, and application.

The Electronic Principles of Nanomaterial Surface Chemistry

Guolei Xiang

DOI: 10.7536/PC240105

Accepted: 18 March 2024

Online available: 18 March 2024

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Abstract

Revealing the intrinsic electronic principles driving the surface chemistry of nanomaterials is a central goal in nanoscience; however, the concepts and theoretical frameworks have long remained incomplete and unsystematic. This review systematically introduces a theoretical framework to reveal the interaction mechanisms and trends of surface ligands with nanomaterials at the electronic level, on the basis of competitive orbital redistribution in chemisorption and a concept of orbital potential, the characteristic electronic attribute directly determining surface reactivity. Based on the competitive interactions between surface coordination bonds and bulk energy bands, this theoretical framework can provide coherent answers to these key scientific issues. (1) The opposite and uniform relation of surface activity and stability in nanomaterials originates from the normalization principle of wavefunctions. (2) The physical nature of enhanced surface activity by size reduction lies in two mechanisms: weakening the constrain strength to surface valence atomic orbitals by nanomaterial energy bands, and amplifying the effects of other structural parameters like defects. (3) Nanoscale cooperative chemisorption (NCC) model generally reveals the electronic-level mechanisms and common rules how ligand coverage regulates the energy band states and physical/chemical properties of nanomaterials. (4) The roles and interaction mechanisms of nanomaterial size (r), specific surface area (S/V), surface ligands, and ligand coverage (θ) in nanomaterial surface chemical reactions are elucidated.

Research Progress of Photocatalytic Methane Oxidation to Methanol in Promoting Methane Conversion Rate and Methanol Selectivity

Chunqiu Han, Yuehan Cao, Chuan Huang, Weifeng Lv, Ying Zhou

DOI: 10.7536/PC231020

Accepted: 13 March 2024

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Abstract

Photocatalytic direct conversion of methane (CH₄) to methanol (CH₃OH) provides an effective way for efficient energy storage and the synthesis of high-value chemicals. However, due to the difficulty in activating CH₄ molecules and the fact that CH₃OH is more reactive than CH₄ and prone to peroxidation, the conversion rate of CH₄ is low and the selectivity of CH₃OH is as well as low. Therefore, the selective photocatalytic direct conversion of CH₄ to CH₃OH still faces significant challenges. This review focuses on the research ideas on promoting CH₄ conversion rate and CH₃OH selectivity in recent years in the direct conversion of photocatalytic CH₄ to CH₃OH, as well as the corresponding catalyst design strategies. In terms of promoting CH₄ conversion rate, the main research idea is to effectively activate CH₄ by improving reactive oxygen radical activation or catalytic activation pathways. In terms of promoting CH₃OH selectivity, the main idea is to inhibit the peroxidation of CH₃OH or achieve CH₃OH regeneration. In order to improve the conversion rate of CH₄ and the selectivity of CH₃OH, catalytic design strategies mainly include loading cocatalysts, controlling the size of catalytic materials and constructing oxygen vacancies. Finally, this review provides an outlook on the future research direction of photocatalytic direct conversion of CH₄ to CH₃OH.

Construction of Polymer-Microorganism Hybrids for Catalysis

Yutai Zou, Wenshuo Wang, Jian Liu

DOI: 10.7536/PC231113

Accepted: 13 March 2024

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Abstract

The design and development of material-microorganism hybrid systems which can solar energy for green biosynthesis is expected to provide human society with a viable solution for addressing the global energy shortage and environmental crisis. In recent years, the construction of hybrid systems by coupling excellent physical and chemical features of artificial materials with the biosynthetic function of microorganisms has received extensive attention. Polymeric materials, due to versatile functions, excellent designability and good biocompatibility, have been widely used to construct material-microorganism hybrid systems, and have shown broad application prospects in the field of bioenergy. Based on the functional features of polymeric materials, this paper systematically summarizes different types of polymer-microorganism biohybrid systems, and discusses the augmentation of their catalytic performance by enhancing light utilization, accelerating electron transfer, and stabilizing biological activity. Finally, the challenges and future development of polymer-microorganism hybrid systems are discussed.

Synthesis of Low-symmetry 2D Transition Metal Dichalcogenides by Chemical Vapor Deposition

Yun Chen, Hui Zhang, Zheng Luo, Weiguo Mao, Jun'an Pan, Shanshan Wang

DOI: 10.7536/PC230810

Accepted: 13 March 2024

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Abstract

Low-symmetry two-dimensional materials are a new type of nanomaterials with few lattice symmetry operations and only atomic-level thickness in the longitudinal direction. In the two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) system, 1T'-MoTe₂, 1T'-WTe₂, 1T'-ReS₂ and 1T'-ReSe₂ are typical low-symmetry members. The unique lattice symmetry brings them rich anisotropic physical and chemical properties, so they have special application prospects in the fields of micro-nano photonics, tactile sensors, and anisotropic logic devices. The basic research and application development of low-symmetry two-dimensional TMDs materials rely on the high-quality, large-size, and stable preparation of such materials. Therefore, this paper takes these four types of materials as typical materials, first classifies them according to metal precursors, and reviews the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) preparation methods of low-symmetry two-dimensional TMDs materials in recent years. Secondly, according to the characteristics of 1T'-MoTe₂ easy to undergo phase transition and weak interaction between 1T'-ReS₂, 1T'-ReSe₂ and the substrate during the preparation process, the phase regulation mechanism in the preparation process of 1T'-MoTe₂ and the substrate engineering research in the preparation process of 1T'-ReS₂ and 1T'-ReSe₂ were introduced. . Finally, this paper looks forward to the future challenges and opportunities of low-symmetry 2D TMDs materials.

Application of Copper-Based Catalysts for the Selective Catalytic Combustion of Ammonia

Qian Zhang, Run-ze Tao, Yu Huang, Hou-zhang Tan, Bao-chong Cui

DOI: 10.7536/PC230816

Accepted: 13 March 2024

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Abstract

Ammonia is a promising new energy carrier that has the potential to replace traditional fossil fuels due to its high calorific value, CO₂ emission free and renewable properties, and low storage and transportation costs. However, the ammonia combustion faces several challenges such as high NO_x emission, slow combustion rate, and ignition difficulties. To address these challenges, selective catalytic combustion is an efficient and promising way that can decrease combustion temperature, enhance combustion stability, improve fuel conversion rate and reduce NO_x emission, while requiring less auxiliary fuel and consuming less energy. Copper-based catalysts are cost-effective and they are demonstrated to exhibit excellent performance in ammonia catalytic combustion with high N₂ selectivity. In this review, the reaction experimental setup and primary mechanisms, namely NH-HNO, N₂H₄ and i-SCR pathways are presented firstly; then the recent research progress on copper-based supported catalysts for ammonia combustion, including the effect of preparation methods, types of support materials, metal-support interactions, and Cu-based single or multiple active components on catalytic performance are reviewed in detail. Finally, the review is concluded by summarizing the research achievements, current drawbacks and proposing the future developments.

A Review of Reagents On Rare Earth Mineral Processing Technology

Meiying Xie, Fan Yang, Liyan Xue, Kaixian Wang, Zhengming Jiang, YaZhu Li

DOI: 10.7536/PC230821

Accepted: 13 March 2024

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Abstract

Rare earths have excellent physicochemical properties and have important applications in a wide range of fields, and always been recognized as a key mineral resource by many major countries, including China, the United States, Japan and Australia. However, rare earth raw minerals are diverse, low grade, often closely coexist with gangue minerals of similar nature, and its beneficiation and enrichment relies heavily on the development of the reagents on rare earth mineral processing technology. In this review, the research and development status of mineral-based rare earth ore flotation reagents, including collecting agents(hydroxamic acid, fatty acid, phosphoric acid and others), foaming agents(2# oil and others), modifying agents (depressants, activators) and their flotation mechanism are described. The innovation of chemical mineral processing reagents for ion-adsorption type rare earths ores, including leaching agents, precipitation regents are summarized. In particular, this review pays special attention to the rare earth flotation collectors, especially for hydroxamic acid which is the current mainstream collector, and this review also provides a more detailed description of the capture mechanism of hydroxamic acid as well as the synthesis route. And at the end of this review, it also points out the future research direction of the reagents on rare earth mineral processing technology should be toward the higher selectivity, higher recovery, and more environmentally friendly. This review provides some useful reference for enterprises or personnel who engaged in the rare earth mineral processing or related pharmaceuticals.

The Space Confinement Effect of Catalytic Materials and Its Application in Low Temperature Denitration

Wei Zhang, Qiao Wu, Yehao Fu, Yaocheng Liang, Min Ruan, Yanshan Yin, Shan Chen

DOI: 10.7536/PC231005

Accepted: 13 March 2024

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Abstract

The spatial confinement effect of porous materials can change the surface electron distribution and electron transport performance, realize the local reaction in the micro-nano pore domain, effectively prevent the external environment from affecting the active substances in the confined space, and inhibit the agglomeration of the active center, which is an effective way to strengthen the denitrification performance of the catalyst. This paper focuses on the changes of surface energy, periodic boundary conditions and electronic energy levels of different catalytic materials, and discusses the formation mechanism of spatial confinement effect. The effects of confinement effect on the dispersion of active species, redox ability and molecular adsorption strength in the reaction process and the regulation strategies of size effect, encapsulation effect and molecular sieve effect in confinement effect were described. The strengthening effects of confined catalysts on NH₃ adsorption performance, reaction selectivity, anti-toxicity and denitrification activity in the denitrification process were summarized. Finally, the development prospect of confined denitrification catalysts was prospected.

Performance improvement strategy of photocatalytic ammonia synthesis catalyst

Lijun GUO, Hong YANG, Shengjuan SHAO, Yinqi LIU, Jianxin LIU

DOI: 10.7536/PC231202

Accepted: 13 March 2024

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Abstract

Photocatalytic nitrogen fixation is driven by solar energy, N₂ and H₂O are used to directly produce NH₃ at normal temperature and pressure, and the process has zero carbon emission. It is one of the most promising artificial nitrogen fixation methods, and has attracted wide attention from researchers in recent years. Limited by the difficult activation of N₂, low utilization rate of photogenerated carrier and low utilization rate of sunlight, the ammonia production efficiency is still not high, so improving the ammonia production efficiency is the focus of research in the field of photocatalytic ammonia synthesis. Starting from the three important processes of N₂ adsorption activation, carrier separation and migration, and surface reaction, it is very promising to promote the activation and conversion of N₂ under mild conditions and produce NH₃ efficiently by reasonable modification of the catalyst. This paper mainly studied the modification of photocatalyst, summarized the influence of N₂ molecular adsorption and activation ability, photogenerated electron transfer ability and light utilization on the ammonia production efficiency, analyzed the research in recent years in these fields, and finally summarized the modification strategy of photocatalytic ammonia synthesis catalyst.

Application of MOFs-Derived Metal Sulfides and their Composites in Photocatalysis

Shijian Chen, Yuxuan Pan, Junfeng Qian, Lihua Cheng, Hui Wang

DOI: 10.7536/PC230806

Accepted: 13 March 2024

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Abstract

With the rapid development of society and economy, the demand for energy has been continuously increasing. Solar energy has emerged as a clean energy source with great development potential, and the long-term effective utilization of solar energy has become an urgent problem that needs to be addressed. Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) derived metal sulfides retain the original structural characteristics of their parent MOFs, including large surface areas, dispersed nanoscale subunits, and abundant active sites. They overcome the limitations of MOFs in terms of material stability at high temperatures and harsh chemical environments. Moreover, compared to metal oxides, they have a narrower bandgap, which extends their light absorption range to the visible region. The porous nature of MOFs-derived metal sulfides also provides additional pathways for light-induced electron migration, promoting charge carrier separation. As a result, they have attracted increasing attention in the field of photocatalysis. Although this field is still in its nascent stage, the results obtained so far indicate that MOF-derived metal sulfides and their composite photocatalysts have high potential for practical applications. This article systematically elucidates the synthesis, performance, and mechanisms of MOFs-derived metal sulfide photocatalysts and their composites in various application areas such as wastewater treatment, water splitting for hydrogen generation, and CO₂ reduction. This will provide a new direction for the synthesis and application of novel and efficient composite photocatalytic materials. Additionally, some existing issues in current research are addressed, and the future prospects and challenges of MOFs-derived sulfide photocatalytic materials are discussed.

Mercury methylation in periphyton and its impact on the fate of methylmercury in aquatic environments

Zhe Chen, Yuping Xiang, Yongguang Yin, Yanwei Liu, Lufeng Chen, Yong Liang, Dingyong Wang, Yong Cai

DOI: 10.7536/PC231014

Accepted: 13 March 2024

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Abstract

Mercury (Hg) is an important global pollutant. Aquatic environment is an important sink of mercury and the most important site for methylation and bioaccumulation. As one of the most important primary producers, periphyton is widely present in lakes, wetlands, streams, and other aquatic environments. Compared to water columns, periphyton has enhanced mercury methylation potential, which is an important source of methylmercury in aquatic environment and a key pathway for mercury entering into food chains. Periphyton has diverse microbial structures and exhibits highly complex functionality. The interactions among different microorganisms result in distinct redox gradients within periphyton, forming an anoxic microenvironment conducive to mercury methylation. On the one hand, algae and bacteria in periphyton can accumulate inorganic Hg(Ⅱ) from the surrounding water, providing sufficient substrate for mercury methylation. On the other hand, periphyton is rich in metabolic secretions from various algae and bacteria, with the functional groups (such as thiol groups) can regulate the speciation of inorganic Hg(II) and enhance its bioavailability. In addition, different microorganisms can share metabolites, which can enhance the abundance and metabolic activity of Hg methylating bacteria, thus promoting the production of methylmercury. Overall, clarifying the mercury methylation mechanism and bioaccumulation in periphyton contributes to a further understanding of the source and fate of methylmercury in aquatic environment, and provides scientific basis and data support for accurately assessing mercury pollution and environmental risks.

Study on the High-Voltage Resistance of Layered Oxide Cathode Materials for Sodium-ion Batteries

Lixiang Ding, Xuke Li, Xuefeng Liu, Yimin Liu, Wen Lei, Haijun Zhang

DOI: 10.7536/PC231023

Accepted: 13 March 2024

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Abstract

Sodium-ion batteries have shown great application prospects in the field of large-scale energy storage and low-speed electric vehicles due to their resource and cost advantages. Among various cathodes reported, layered oxide cathode materials have been widely investigated owing to their high theoretical capacity and simple synthesis method. However, many adverse reactions and phenomena such as structural instability and surface degeneration are prone to occur during its cycling process, especially at high voltage, which hinders its application in commerce. This article briefly reviews the mechanism of structural transformation, surface degradation, and oxygen loss of layered oxide cathode at high-voltage, focuses on the strategies to improve the high-pressure resistance of layered oxide cathode, and aims to provide reasonable insights for improving the high-voltage stabilization of layered oxide cathode materials and designing sodium-ion layered oxide cathode materials with high performance. Finally, the shortcomings of sodium battery layered oxide cathode materials in modification and future research directions are also summarized.

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