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  • Suzhen Bai, Yi Zeng, Zhengshan Tian, Kesheng Cao, Xingwu Li, Haoqi Wang
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250801
    Accepted: 2025-09-16
    The electrocatalytic urea oxidation reaction (UOR) has emerged as an energy-efficient alternative to the traditional oxygen evolution reaction for hydrogen production, with mechanistic understanding being critical for the rational design of catalysts. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in in situ characterization techniques for elucidating the dynamic reaction mechanisms of UOR. Studies reveal that phase transitions, valence state migration, and electronic structure evolution of catalysts under operational conditions are key factors governing activity and stability. Techniques such as in situ X-ray diffraction, X-ray absorption spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy enable real-time monitoring of catalyst reconstruction, intermediate evolution, and interfacial adsorption behavior, overcoming the environmental deviations inherent in conventional ex situ characterization. When combined with theoretical calculations, these methods provide direct evidence for identifying active-site configurations, reaction pathways, and rate-determining steps. In addition, special emphasis is placed on multimodal in situ strategies for deciphering synergistic effects in nickel-based catalysts, while current challenges including non-alkaline systems, real wastewater environments, and multi-metal cooperation mechanisms are critically discussed. Future research should focus on developing novel in situ approaches for complex systems and establishing a mutually reinforcing framework integrating theoretical prediction and experimental validation, thereby advancing UOR catalyst design from empirical exploration to mechanism-guided optimization.
  • Yuanhang Shan, Jun Hu, Meng Wang
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250211
    Accepted: 2025-09-16
    Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are crosslinked polymer networks that combine the anisotropy of liquid crystals with the entropic elasticity of elastomers. They exhibit reversible large deformations under external stimuli, making them a focal point in smart materials research. Among various forms, LCE fibers, characterized by their high aspect ratio and large specific surface area, demonstrate enhanced sensitivity, greater deformation capacity, and excellent reversibility, weavability, and programmability, significantly broadening their application potential. In recent years, advancements in manufacturing technologies have expanded the fabrication methods of LCE fibers from traditional pulling and templating techniques to advanced spinning technologies such as melt spinning, electrospinning, wet spinning, and emerging 3D/4D printing techniques. These innovations have not only provided more possibilities for structural design and performance optimization of LCE fibers but also promoted their widespread use in high-performance material applications. This article systematically reviews the molecular structure and diverse fabrication methods of LCE fibers, discusses their applications in artificial muscles, soft robotics, smart clothing, and wearable devices, and provides an outlook on the future development of LCE fibers.
  • Yongzhen Chu, Pengfei Sun, Quli Fan
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250210
    Accepted: 2025-09-16
    D-A-D molecule refers to a class of conjugated structure molecules composed of an electron donor and an electron acceptor. The NIR two-region fluorescence imaging dominated by such molecules has the advantages of good penetration effect and high imaging clarity. It has high application potential in clinical diagnosis. However, such molecules usually contain conjugated benzene ring structures. This means that the water solubility of these molecules is not good, which greatly limits the wider application of NIR-Ⅱregion fluorescence imaging. In recent years, D-A-D molecules have usually been modified to improve their water solubility. This review introduces four methods to improve water solubility by end-modified hydrophilic polyethylene glycol, modified other hydrophilic polymer chains, modified by protein or peptide, and end-ionized modification. The design methods and related applications of water-soluble D-A-D molecules are introduced in detail. Finally, the further development of water-soluble D-A-D small molecules in the field of NIR-Ⅱ region fluorescence imaging is prospect.
  • Yuyang Sun, Wenxi Wang, Wencui Li, Hanying Qin, Jiaxin Cai, Zhen Zhao
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC241206
    Accepted: 2025-09-08
    Two-dimensional materials, with their high specific surface areas and tunable electronic structures, have shown significant advantages in the enhancement of catalytic efficiency, selectivity, and stability. Their ability to catalyze the conversion of methane into high-value chemicals is of great importance for sustainable energy utilization and environmental protection. This paper reviews the progress of the application of two-dimensional materials in the low-temperature selective oxidation of methane, summarizes the two mechanisms of C-H bond fracture during methane oxidation and lists several typical two-dimensional materials (such as graphene, transition metal sulfides, MXenes, MOFs, metal oxides and their synthesis methods. This paper focuses on investigating the catalytic performance of these materials doped with metal active sites for the selective oxidation of methane using different oxidants (such as H2O2, H2+O2, O2, and CO+O2), emphasizing the role of two-dimensional materials in the regulation of active sites and optimization of reaction pathways. Finally, the potential, challenges and future development direction of two-dimensional materials in solving the problem of methane activation and promoting the progress of energy technology are prospected.
  • Zihao Zhao, Liang Zhao, Xiayan Wang
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250303
    Accepted: 2025-09-03
    Nucleic acid testing is the gold standard and technological cornerstone for the modern diagnosis of pathogenic infections. As a deployable public health surveillance technology, Point-of-Care Testing (POCT) has demonstrated significant value in infectious disease prevention and control, personalized precision medicine, and medical scenarios with limited resources. POCT technology can rapidly provide diagnostic information, significantly improve patient outcomes, and optimize the allocation of medical resources. As an emerging technology, microfluidic chips have become a key component in POCT due to their low reagent consumption, high integration, and automation. By integrating laboratory functions onto a single chip, microfluidic devices have achieved full-process automation of sample processing, signal amplification, and detection, greatly enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of testing. Moreover, when combined with isothermal amplification techniques (such as LAMP) and CRISPR-Cas technology, microfluidic chips can rapidly and sensitively detect pathogens, making them suitable for on-site screening of various infectious diseases. Currently, POCT devices based on microfluidic chips have been successfully applied in the detection of pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2, demonstrating the advantages of speed, portability, and high sensitivity. This review aims to summarize the development of nucleic acid detection and the research progress on the combination of CRISPR-Cas technology and microfluidic chips to explore their current applications and future prospects for POCT.
  • Qianxin Liu, Kaisheng Xia, Zhen Yang, Yi Meng, Yunfeng Tian, Chi Bo, Yier Wu, Chenglin Liu
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250209
    Accepted: 2025-09-03
    Brine resources are widely present in salt lakes, groundwater, and seawater. They are rich in many valuable elements such as lithium, potassium, magnesium, and boron, and thus possess significant economic value. With the rapid development of the new energy industry, especially the sharp increase in the demand for lithium resources, the comprehensive utilization of brine resources has become crucial for ensuring the sustainable supply of resources and promoting green development. However, traditional brine treatment methods, such as evaporation crystallization and chemical precipitation, have problems like high energy consumption, low separation precision, and environmental pollution. There is an urgent need for more efficient and environmentally friendly technical means. As a separation technology based on ion exchange membranes and the action of an electric field, electrodialysis technology has remarkable advantages such as high efficiency, energy conservation, and environmental friendliness, and has gradually become an important technology in brine resource treatment. This article introduces the principles of electrodialysis technology, including the working mechanisms of anion and cation membranes and bipolar membranes. By combining application cases, it explores the research progress of electrodialysis technology in the comprehensive utilization of brine resources. In terms of separation and extraction, this technology has a remarkable effect on the separation and extraction of elements such as lithium, boron, and potassium. It has outstanding advantages, especially in the extraction of lithium from brine with a high magnesium-to-lithium ratio. In the concentration process, it can achieve brine concentration with low energy consumption. In product processing, it can improve product purity and optimize the production process. Although electrodialysis technology has achieved remarkable results in the laboratory and pilot - scale stages, it still faces challenges such as the durability of membrane materials and equipment costs in large - scale industrial applications. In the future, electrodialysis technology is expected to develop synergistically with other technologies. Differentiated technical solutions will be developed according to the characteristics of different brine resources to achieve the full-component utilization of brine resources and promote the sustainable development of related industries.
  • Yanqiong Zhuang, Yinggang Sun, Peng Sun, Zhongfang Li
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250203
    Accepted: 2025-09-03
    Phthalocyanine transition metal macrocyclic complexes have been widely applied in electrochemical reaction processes related to energy conversion and storage, including catalytic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reactions (OER), etc. Their excellent bifunctional performance in catalytic oxygen reactions has attracted extensive attention. This article mainly reviews the preparation methods and current research progress of metal phthalocyanine-based catalysts, as well as the factors influencing the performance of metal phthalocyanine-based catalysts, such as the structure of metal phthalocyanine, the support, the synergistic effect of central metal ions and bimetallic ions, and the influence of edge modification groups, etc. The influence of the fully conjugated structure on its thermal stability and the improvement of catalytic performance was analyzed; The π-π interaction between polymeric metal phthalocyanine complexes and three-dimensional graphene is conducive to improving catalytic activity and durability. The synergistic effect between the two metals and the edge-modified electron-donating groups can enhance catalytic performance.
  • Jiayao Chen, Pengcheng Xiao, Saiqun Nie, Fuli Luo, Tian Zhao, Yi Chen
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250301
    Accepted: 2025-08-29
    As environmental challenges continue to escalate, the importance of energy storage development has never been greater. The design and advancement of high-performance batteries are now essential to meet the demands of modern society. However, existing battery substrates are inadequate for the production of next-generation batteries. Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as a novel class of multifunctional materials that offer significant advantages as battery substrates, including high specific surface area, exceptional porosity, and customizable properties. This review comprehensively examines the applications of various MOF substrates in the field of battery electrodes, and delves into innovative application strategies, challenges and outlines future development prospects for MOF electrode substrates, emphasizing their transformative potential in enhancing electrode performance, paving the way for their integration into sustainable energy solutions.
  • Qiaofang Zhong, Mengjie Li, Yanqiu Hu, Chao Qu, Haijun Zhang, Jianghao Liu
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250101
    Accepted: 2025-08-29
    Inconel 718 (IN 718) alloy owing to its high temperature strength, high ductility and good corrosion resistance, has broad application prospects in aerospace, military and energy fields. However, the low hardness and wear resistance of IN 718 alloy severely limits its application. To solve these problems, the feasible strategy is to modify the compositions/microstructures of IN 718 alloy. Laser additive manufacturing method has the capability of effectively regulating the composition and microstructure of composite materials, so as to enhance their overall mechanical performances. Herein, the intrinsic properties and compositional modification strategies of IN 718-matrix composites were first introduced, and then the advantages and limitations of laser-additive-manufactured IN 718-matrix composites were summarized. Afterward, the evolution laws of microstructural morphologies and mechanical performances of IN 718-matrix composites prepared by laser additive manufacturing methods are summarized. Finally, the key scientific problems in modifying the preparation method, regulating microstructure and optimizing mechanical performances of IN 718-matrix composites were respectively clarified, and the future developments were prospected.
  • Shuang-Lin Zou, Ying-Chun Xu, Tao Gui, Rong Tan, Ling-Ping Xiao, Run-Cang Sun
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250305
    Accepted: 2025-08-29
    In the era of heightened global environmental consciousness, the principle of sustainable development has become deeply ingrained in public awareness. However, conventional petroleum-based adhesives are plagued by issues of unsustainability, high energy consumption, and significant environmental pollution during their production and application. Consequently, the development of green, sustainable, and high-performance biomass-based adhesives has emerged as a critical research focus. Biomass-based adhesives continue to encounter significant challenges, including suboptimal water resistance, elevated production costs, and the necessity for enhanced environmental performance. Future research should focus on optimizing the modification process of biomass raw materials, reducing production costs, improving the comprehensive properties of adhesives, and promoting their large-scale industrial application. In-depth investigation into the correlation between the structure and properties of biomass is crucial for the development of environmentally friendly and cost-effective adhesives. This paper summarizes the classification, modification methods, and properties of biomass-based raw materials and provides a detailed prospect for their future development.
  • Yan He, Jiaxin Song, Xiaoqiang Fan, Xuehua Yu, Zhen Zhao
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250201
    Accepted: 2025-08-29
    Methane, as a light alkane clean resource with abundant reserves, its efficient utilization has significant practical significance. Direct conversion of methane into high-value target products through gas-phase selective oxidation of methane has become an effective way to efficiently utilize methane. This reaction has the advantages of simple equipment and relatively low reaction energy consumption. However, the strong carbon-hydrogen bond of methane makes its activation process difficult, and the product formaldehyde is prone to deep oxidation under high-temperature and oxygen-containing conditions, resulting in a decrease in the selectivity of the target product. Therefore, achieving high-selectivity direct oxidation of methane to form oxygen-containing compounds is challenging. This article reviews the research progress in the gas-phase selective oxidation of methane to formaldehyde, focusing on the reaction mechanism of selective oxidation of methane to formaldehyde on catalysts, catalyst systems, and the application of various in-situ characterizations in the reaction. Finally, the future development directions of the selective oxidation of methane are summarized and prospected.
  • Jingyuan Yang, Xiaoqi Yao, Li Ye, Hairui Jin, Yi Wang
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250108
    Accepted: 2025-08-29
    The increasing proportion of nuclear energy in China’s energy resources has brought about a series of difficulties and challenges. Nuclear power plants generate a large amount of radioactive liquid and solid waste during operation, and how to effectively treat and dispose of them has become a research focus. For radioactive liquid waste, the current main treatment processes in China are ion exchange and barrel evaporation drying. In addition, chemical precipitation, membrane technology, and other emerging technologies are also the current research directions for combined treatment. For solid waste, radioactive ions are tightly bound to solid materials, making it difficult for decontamination and regulatory release. Currently, solidification and compression are used for disposal in China, especially for mixed waste resins, which have large output and high radiation dose, as well as water absorption and elasticity, the main method in China is to use hot state overpressure technology to improve the volume reduction ratio, and then package and dispose of it geologically..
  • Shu Luxi, Zhang Yan
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250706
    Accepted: 2025-08-29
    Cell heterogeneity is key to understanding life processes such as embryonic development and disease evolution, while traditional bulk cell RNA sequencing cannot resolve gene expression differences at the single-cell level. Although single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology can construct transcriptomic maps at single-cell resolution, it faces challenges such as low efficiency in single-cell isolation and capture, and large deviations in trace RNA manipulation. Microfluidic chip technology, through a microscale fluid manipulation system, integrates processes such as single-cell isolation, lysis, reverse transcription, amplification, and sequencing library construction, achieving high-throughput, low sample loss, and automated operations, which significantly improves the efficiency and data reliability of scRNA-seq. This paper outlines the sequencing process of scRNA-seq, including steps such as single-cell isolation and capture, RNA extraction, reverse transcription and amplification, and single-cell sequencing. It analyzes the core advantages of microfluidic chips in adapting to single cells, precisely controlling reaction volumes, and realizing process automation, and briefly describes the technical principles and characteristics of representative platforms such as Fluidigm C1, 10X Genomics Chromium, and BD Rhapsody. Microfluidic chip technology provides an efficient and precise technical platform for scRNA-seq. In the future, with the continuous optimization of chip design and the improvement of multi-omics integrated analysis capabilities, we expect it to play a more profound role in resolving complex biological systems, revealing disease mechanisms, and even promoting precision medicine.
  • Ruyu Sun, Man Qi, Yawen Zhao, Yongli Lv, Li Wang, Wei Yan
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250311
    Accepted: 2025-08-29
    With the increasing global emphasis on carbon dioxide emissions reduction, electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction (ECO2R) to methanol has garnered significant attention within the context of carbon neutrality. However, existing ECO2R catalysts still suffer from limitations in activity, selectivity, and stability, thereby constraining their practical applications. This underscores the urgent need for the development of highly efficient catalysts, which remains a central research focus in this field. Traditional catalyst design predominantly relies on trial-and-error approaches, which are inherently inefficient. Therefore, novel strategies are required to accelerate catalyst discovery and optimization. With the rapid advancement of artificial intelligence, machine learning has emerged as a powerful tool to drive catalyst development. This review systematically summarizes the reaction mechanisms underlying ECO2R to methanol and highlights recent advancements in catalyst research, encompassing Cu-based, non-Cu-based, and phthalocyanine-based catalysts. Furthermore, the fundamental framework of machine learning applications in this domain is introduced, covering key stages from data acquisition to model validation. Particular emphasis is placed on machine learning-driven predictions of catalytic activity, catalyst design, and performance optimization. Although machine learning has made remarkable progress in ECO2R research, there are still several challenges, including data scarcity, insufficient model interpretability, and the lack of a universal prediction framework. Future research should focus on the establishment of high-quality catalyst databases, enhancement of model interpretability, and improvement of generalization capabilities. This review aims to provide a comprehensive perspective on ECO2R catalyst design while emphasizing the pivotal role of machine learning in facilitating breakthroughs in this field.
  • Hongzhang He, Jingzhe Zhang, Kenian Zhou, Jinbo Wu, Faliang Li, Haijun Zhang
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250104
    Accepted: 2025-08-29
    The extensive use of chemical fertilizers and other industrial and agricultural chemicals has led to the discharge of excessive nitrate wastewater into nature, posing a serious threat to the environment and human health. Photocatalytic nitrate reduction technology is considered to be a promising, harmless treatment method for nitrate due to its high efficiency, low energy consumption and wide applicability. In this paper, the mechanism and main products of nitrate reduction in photocatalytic water are described in detail. The commonly used photocatalyst types are systematically reviewed, and the influencing factors in the photocatalytic process are introduced. In addition, the main challenges faced by photocatalytic nitrate reduction technology are comprehensively analyzed, and its future development prospects are discussed and prospected.
  • Yuxiang Ren, Dongyang Han, Weiwei Shi
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250315
    Accepted: 2025-08-29
    Mirror-image peptides and proteins composed entirely of D-amino acids have emerged as promising therapeutic candidates owing to their resistance to proteolysis and reduced immunogenicity. Mirror-image phage display (MIPD) is currently the main experimental technique for identifying mirror-image peptide ligands targeting disease-related proteins. However, the success of MIPD critically depends on synthetic mirror-image target proteins, which cannot be produced by traditional recombinant methods due to the intrinsic chirality of biological systems. Recent advances in chemical protein synthesis, such as enzyme-cleavable solubilizing tags, backbone-installed split intein-assisted ligation, and removable glycosylation modification-assisted folding strategies, have effectively addressed key challenges in preparing these complex mirror-image proteins. In addition, computational approaches, exemplified by AI-driven protein design, have become powerful complementary tools, accelerating the discovery and optimization of mirror-image protein drug candidates. Although mirror-image protein drugs have not yet reached clinical use, ongoing innovations in chemical synthesis and ligand screening methods are steadily advancing their therapeutic potential toward clinical translation.
  • Shiying Yang, Ximiao Ma
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC241209
    Accepted: 2025-08-07

    For halogenated organic compounds, antibiotics, and other emerging contaminants that are persistent and highly toxic, micro-electrolysis fillers can effectively disrupt the chemical structures of these contaminant molecules and achieve the effect of deep mineralization through direct electron reduction and electrochemical oxidation. However, although the traditional micro-electrolysis process has achieved certain results, there are still many thorny problems. For example, the stability of the fillers is poor, their service life is short, and they are prone to caking and passivation, which leads to clogging of the reactor, requiring frequent replacement of the fillers. To overcome these problems, granulation is usually employed to increase the interfacial bonding strength between iron powder and activated carbon powder. However, previous studies have often focused on the influence of the composition or preparation methods of the fillers on their performance, while the role of the binders has been subtle and difficult to detect. Through in-depth investigations, it has been found that binders play a key role as the 'unsung heroes' in enhancing the performance of micro-electrolysis fillers and that their functional groups and chemical structures have a profound effect on the performance of the fillers. They can not only strengthen the mechanical strength of fillers, improve their stability and anti-passivation ability, promote the mass transfer process, prevent filler caking, and prolong the service life of fillers, but also increase the utilization rate of electrons and catalyze the occurrence of reactions, thereby further enhancing the degradation activity of emerging pollutants. Given this, this paper systematically summarizes the interfacial bonding mechanisms of commonly used binders in different granulation methods, analyses the deep action mechanisms of binders in enhancing the performance of micro-electrolysis fillers, discusses the influence laws of binder types and contents on the fillers, and looks forward to the development of new fillers, and looks forward to the development of new high-performance binder materials, the optimizing of the process parameters of binders in the filler preparation process, and the in-depth exploration of the action mechanisms between binders and active components of fillers, with the expectation of promoting the development of micro-electrolysis fillers in the field of environmental management.

    Contents:

    1 Introduction

    2 Interfacial bonding mechanism during granula-tion of commonly used binders

    2.1 Inorganic binder

    2.2 Organic binder

    2.3 Composite binder

    2.4 Comparison of the performance of binders

    3 The main methods of binder granulation

    3.1 Sintering

    3.2 Carbothermal reduction

    3.3 Gelation

    3.4 Liquid phase reduction

    3.5 Burden

    3.6 Comparison of granulation methods

    4 Extended life cycle

    4.1 Optimization of filler mechanical strength

    4.2 Improved filler stability

    5 Enhanced electronic utilization

    5.1 Broadening the path of e-transfer

    5.2 Modulation of electron transfer

    6 Improvement of reaction efficiency

    6.1 Catalytic activation

    6.2 Promotion of micro-electrolysis

    6.3 Adsorption and flocculation

    7 Factors affecting binder granulation

    7.1 Types of binders

    7.2 Content of binders

    8 Conclusion and outlook

  • Qian Liu, Zichang Peng, Yameng Wang, Yao Geng, Xiaomin Ren, Xiaole Xia
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC241215
    Accepted: 2025-08-07

    Sweet-tasting proteins, characterized by their low calorie and high sweetness attributes, demonstrate significant potential in the food industry. They not only satisfy the demand of consumers for healthy and safe sweeteners but also have the potential to replace traditional high-calorie sweeteners, thus driving innovation in the food industry. However, their commercialization process still faces challenges such as restrictions on the origin of raw materials, low yield, high extraction costs, and poor stability. In this review, the basic characteristics of sweet-tasting proteins were examined, their taste mechanisms and the relationship between their structure and sweet taste activity were investigated. Precise design and modification of sweet-tasting proteins and host through synthetic biology and artificial intelligence methods to enhance their sweetness, stability and yield were proposed. Additionally, optimizing host, expression and secretion strategies, as well as precise control of the fermentation process, can further improve the yield and activity of sweet-tasting proteins. These approaches provide a theoretical basis and technical references for addressing the existing problems in the commercial application of sweet-tasting proteins and have positive implications for promoting their widespread use in the food industry.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Taste mechanism and structure-function relationship

    2.1 Recognition and signal transduction of sweet taste receptors

    2.2 Structure-function relationship analysis

    3 Customized optimization and production strategies

    3.1 Protein precision design and modification

    3.2 Optimization of strategies for host cell selection

    3.3 Optimization of expression and secretion strategies

    3.4 Precise control and optimization of the fermentation process

    4 Conclusion and outlook

  • Original article
    Nina Chen, Zhiqiang Li, Longyi Guo, Longyu Wen, Lei Jiang, Kongzhai Li
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC241212
    Accepted: 2025-08-01

    Chemical looping (CL) technology has been widely used in fields such as in-situ capture of carbon dioxide, hydrogen production, oxidative dehydrogenation and partial oxidation of methane. The development of oxygen carriers is the key link to the advancement of CL. Exploring the mechanism of oxygen storage and release in the oxygen carrier lattice is important for the design of high-performance oxygen carriers, the explanation of CL reaction mechanism, and the regulation of product selectivity and yield. First, this paper systematically reviews the research methods and progress of oxygen storage and release mechanism of oxygen carriers, presenting the important role of key characterization techniques in exploring the lattice oxygen migration mechanism. At the same time, we summarize the reaction mechanism of different types of oxygen carriers and the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of active components, providing theoretical support for the design and modification of oxygen carriers. Furthermore, this paper also focuses on the difficulties and controversies in the study of oxygen storage and release mechanism of CL oxygen carriers. Finally, some perspectives on the current studies of mechanism for oxygen carriers were presented.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 The research method to study the mechanism of oxygen storage and release by oxygen carriers

    2.1 Advanced characterization Techniques

    2.2 Experimental design method

    2.3 Primary calculation method

    3 Study on lattice oxygen migration mechanism during oxygen storage and release

    3.1 Lattice oxygen migration mechanism of spinel oxygen carriers

    3.2 Lattice oxygen migration mechanism of perovskite-type oxygen carriers

    3.3 Lattice oxygen migration mechanism of other metal based oxygen carriers

    4 Study on metal ions migration mechanism during oxygen storage and release

    5 Research limitations in oxygen storage and release processes

    5.1 Limitations of the research method

    5.2 Limitations of the research mechanism

    6 Conclusions and outlook

  • Original article
    Xu Guo, Xin Li, Jingyao Qi
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC241205
    Accepted: 2025-08-01

    Iron cobalt phosphide is considered to be an important candidate material for anodic water dissociation due to its low cost and high catalytic activity, but it still suffers from poor intrinsic conductivity and limited active sites. Starting from the anodic hydro-electric oxidation process represented by oxygen evolution reaction, we systematically reviewed the research progress of adjusting electronic structure, optimizing adsorption energy of water oxidation intermediates, and improving stability for iron cobalt phosphide based materials through strategies such as intrinsic activity regulation, doping engineering, defect design, and heterogeneous structure construction. Finally, the development of iron cobalt phosphide based anode materials is prospected.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Water oxidation process

    3 Strategies for improving the water dissociation performance of FeCoP based anode materials

    3.1 Intrinsic activity regulation

    3.2 Doping engineering

    3.3 Defects design

    3.4 Heterojunction engineering

  • Original article
    Mengyu Han, Rong Chen, Qiao Li, Hong Li, Yi Jia
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC241102
    Accepted: 2025-07-28

    Chemodynamic therapy (CDT) refers to a method that utilizes metal ion-mediated Fenton/Fenton-like reactions to catalyze the generation of highly cytotoxic hydroxyl radicals from hydrogen peroxide, effectively killing tumor cells. It offers advantages such as tumor specificity, minimal side effects, and a treatment process initiated solely by internal tumor substances like H2O2 and glutathione without the need for external stimuli. However, the high concentration of glutathione in the tumor microenvironment, insufficient endogenous hydrogen peroxide, and hypoxia hinder the therapeutic effect of CDT. To enhance its effectiveness, researchers have explored various metal ion-mediated Fenton/Fenton-like reactions, leading to the proposed combination of CDT with multiple other therapies. This article reviews the reaction mechanisms of CDT and its collaborative applications with various therapies in anti-tumor treatment. It begins by discussing the catalytic reaction mechanisms of CDT mediated by different metal ions, delving into the advantages and disadvantages of various ions in catalyzing Fenton or Fenton-like reactions. Subsequently, it details the latest research progress on the combination of CDT with other therapies, such as photothermal therapy, chemotherapy, and photodynamic therapy, in anti-tumor treatments. Finally, the article proposes future research directions for the development of chemodynamic therapy and highlights key issues that need to be considered to further promote its clinical research applications.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Mechanism for Fenton reaction mediated by various metal ions

    2.1 Iron-mediated mechanism for Fenton reaction

    2.2 Copper-mediated mechanism for Fenton-like reaction

    2.3 Other metal ion-mediated mechanisms for Fenton-like reactions

    3 CDT-based combination therapies and their anti-tumor applications

    3.1 Combination therapy of PTT and CDT

    3.2 Combination therapy of chemotherapy and CDT

    3.3 Combination therapy of PDT and CDT

    3.4 Combination therapy of other therapies and CDT

    4 Conclusion and perspective

  • Original article
    Weimo Han, Yahui Wang, Yin Li, Jianan Yan, Zhiqin Li, Di Huang
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC241103
    Accepted: 2025-07-28

    Bone defects caused by accidents or diseases are a common and serious problem in orthopedic surgery. Finding ideal bone repair materials has become a hotspot in current bone tissue engineering. Polyurethane (PU) is a multiblock copolymer with a microphase-separated structure formed by alternating soft and hard segments. Its application properties - such as mechanical performance, biocompatibility, and biodegradability - can be tailored by adjusting the soft segment structure, hard segment ratio, crystallinity, and other factors, demonstrating broad prospects in the field of bone defect repair. This paper reviews recent research on the design, synthesis, modification, and biological performance of PU in bone tissue engineering, with a focus on its application progress in bone regeneration, including implantable scaffolds, injectable materials, and drug carriers. The aim is to provide more insights for the future design and clinical application of PU materials.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Development of polyurethane

    3 Synthesis of polyurethane

    3.1 Main raw material

    3.2 Main reaction pathways

    4 Structure of polyurethane

    5 Properties of polyurethane

    5.1 Mechanical properties

    5.2 Biological activity

    5.3 Biodegradation

    5.4 Shape memory properties

    6 Applications of polyurethane in bone defects repairing

    6.1 Implanted scaffold

    6.2 Injected polyurethane

    6.3 Drug carrier

    7 Conclusion and outlook

  • Original article
    Ying He, Fangchang Tan, Xiliang Yan
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC241104
    Accepted: 2025-07-28

    Metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) exhibit great promise in diverse applications such as gas storage, catalysis, and sensing due to their distinctive structures and physicochemical properties. However, traditional experimental approaches face challenges in quickly and efficiently designing MOFs with the desired characteristics. In recent years, artificial intelligence (AI) techniques, particularly traditional machine learning and deep learning, have been extensively applied in materials science, yielding numerous noteworthy results. An essential requirement for successful modeling with these techniques is the ability to extract the structural features of MOFs and transform them into computer-readable formats. Therefore, we present a comprehensive review of two feature extraction approaches based on molecular descriptors and end-to-end deep learning. We summarize the fundamental concepts and principles of both methods, emphasizing their specific applications and recent advancements in MOFs design. Finally, we discuss the challenges and future directions for improving the comprehensiveness, interpretability, and reproducibility of structural feature extraction. This review aims to provide valuable insights and theoretical guidance for AI-driven MOFs design.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Traditional machine learning and end-to-end deep learning

    2.1 Basic concepts and historical development of artificial intelligence

    2.2 Key steps in traditional machine learning and end-to-end deep Learning

    2.3 Differences between traditional machine learning and end-to-end deep Learning

    2.4 Overview of the MOF databases

    3 Feature extraction based on molecular descriptors

    3.1 Structural descriptors

    3.2 Chemical characteristics

    3.3 Thermodynamic properties

    3.4 Feature selection and dimensionality reduction techniques

    3.5 Effective strategies for handling missing features and noisy data

    4 Application of end-to-end deep learning model to MOFs design

    4.1 Convolutional neural networks

    4.2 Recurrent neural networks

    4.3 Graph neural networks

    4.4 Generative adversarial networks

    5 Challenges and prospects

  • Review
    Feng Quan, Chuanzi Gao, Wenhui Qiu, Yi Zheng
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250610
    Accepted: 2025-07-11

    Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a category of persistent organic pollutants (POPs) that are ubiquitously found across various environmental media, due to their extensive application in industrial processes and consumer products. These substances can infiltrate the human body through diet, drinking water, inhalation and skin contact, thereby posing potential risks to human health. The placenta, a critical organ at the maternal-fetal interface, is integral to material exchange and endocrine regulation, functioning as a natural barrier to shield the fetus from harmful external agents. Nonetheless, PFAS can cross the placental barrier, accumulate in placental tissues, and subsequently disrupt normal placental physiological functions, which poses significant threats to fetal growth and development. Based on evidence from epidemiological studies, placental cell models, and animal exposure models, this review summarizes the global exposure levels of PFAS in the placenta, examines the effects of PFAS exposure on placental morphology, structure, and function, and explores the underlying molecular mechanisms. By providing a comprehensive overview of current research, this review also offers insights into future research directions.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Exposure of placentas to PFAS

    2.1 Exposure concentration and distribution of human placentas to PFAS

    2.2 Factors influence PFAS retention and transport in the Placenta

    3 The effect of PFAS on placental structure and function

    3.1 Effect on placental morphological

    3.2 Effect on placental histological structure

    3.3 Effect on placental vascular

    3.4 Effect on nutrient metabolism and transport

    3.5 Effect on placental endocrine

    3.6 Molecular mechanisms of placental dysfunction

    4 Conclusion and outlook

  • Mingyu Wu, Dongliang Ma, Qingsong Hua, Shun Lu
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250605
    Accepted: 2025-07-11

    Due to its unique layered structure and excellent electrochemical properties, molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) demonstrates significant potential for applications in the energy storage field, particularly in supercapacitors. It is widely regarded as one of the most representative transition metal dichalcogenides. MoS2 possesses a high theoretical specific capacitance, abundant edge active sites, and favorable tunability and structural diversity, which provide it with a distinct advantage in the construction of advanced electrode structures. Additionally, the anisotropic characteristics of MoS2 concerning electron and ion transport offer more dimensions for regulating its electrochemical behavior. This work will systematically review various synthesis strategies for MoS2 and its recent advancements in energy storage, with a particular focus on the mechanisms by which interlayer spacing modulation affects energy storage behavior in supercapacitor configurations. The discussion will encompass a comprehensive logical framework that spans material structure modifications, electronic configuration evolution, and enhancements in macroscopic device performance. This review aims to provide theoretical support and practical guidance for the application of MoS2 in the next generation of high-performance energy storage devices.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Overview of MoS2 as a fundamental electrode material for supercapacitors

    3 Synthesis strategies of MoS2

    3.1 “Bottom-up” synthesis of MoS2

    3.2 “Top-down” synthesis of MoS2

    4 Strategy of modulating MoS2 interlayer spacing and the effects on electrochemical properties

    4.1 Interlayer agent induces interlayer spacing expansion

    4.2 3D structure construction

    4.3 Defect engineering

    4.4 Other methods to regulate the interlayer spacing of MoS2

    4.5 Theoretical understanding

    5 Summary and outlook

  • Yuxiang Zhang, Weijie Zhang, Lei Liu, Yirui Huang, Hui Wang, Anchao Feng
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC241013
    Accepted: 2025-06-19
    PET-RAFT polymerization (Photoinduced Electron Transfer-Reversible Addition-Fragmentation Chain Transfer Polymerization) has been widely concerned and applied in the field of polymerization due to its characteristics such as low energy consumption, mild reaction conditions, time-space control, reaction orthogonality and oxygen resistance. In terms of surface modification, PET-RAFT polymerization is used to improve the surface characteristics of materials, such as biocompatibility and anti-adhesion. In the biomedical field, PET-RAFT polymerization technology is used to prepare drug delivery systems such as spherical micelles and vesicles. In addition, the application of PET-RAFT polymerization in 3D printing and laser writing demonstrates its great potential for precise control of material structure and functionalization. The key to PET-RAFT polymerization is to find suitable photocatalysts. Currently, the types of catalysts include homogeneous catalyst systems, such as transition metal complexes, porphyrin and phthalocyanine catalysts, organic dyes, and semiconductor materials, as well as heterogeneous catalyst systems, such as macro material supported, nano material supported, metal organic framework, co valent organic framework, conjugated microporous polymers, etc. Among them, heterogeneous catalysts can be effectively recovered and utilized by centrifugation and filtration separation of photocatalysts.The heterogeneous catalyst can be effectively recycled by centrifugation and filtration separation. In the future, researchers will develop new low cost, high efficiency, easy recovery, non-toxic photocatalysts to improve the use of low energy photons and improve the compatibility of photopolymerization with the environment.
  • Junshu Yuan, Wei Zhou, Yang Yu, Xingxing Wang, Yuming Huang, Xiaoxiao Meng
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC241113
    Accepted: 2025-06-06
    Hydrogen energy is regarded as an ideal energy carrier for the future. Traditional hydrogen production through fossil fuel reforming fails to fundamentally address carbon emission issues. Direct seawater electrolysis has emerged as a promising hydrogen production technology with significant prospects. Compared to conventional pure-water electrolysis systems, natural seawater exhibits a more complex chemical composition and induces additional side reactions during electrolysis, thereby imposing higher requirements on electrode materials and electrolyzer structural design. The chlorine evolution reaction (CER) at the anode and calcium/magnesium ion precipitation at the cathode constitutes two critical challenges in direct seawater electrolysis. While substantial research has been reported in recent years regarding the mechanisms and suppression strategies of CER, comparatively fewer studies have systematically addressed the fundamental mechanisms and inhibition approaches for cathodic calcium/magnesium deposition. Practical hydrogen production processes require particular attention to electrode performance degradation caused by such inorganic precipitates, including increased mass transfer resistance and reduced electrolysis efficiency. This review initiates from the formation mechanisms of calcium/magnesium precipitation on cathode surfaces, elaborates on the fundamental principles and technical challenges of direct seawater electrolysis, and critically summarizes recent advances in suppression strategies against cathodic inorganic deposition. Furthermore, perspectives on future research directions for seawater electrolysis technology are provided, emphasizing the need for comprehensive investigations into electrode-electrolyte interfaces and scalable system optimization.
  • Jinzhu Ma, Biwu Chu, Qingxin Ma, Guangzhi He, Qian Liu, Shuxiao Wang, Kebin He, Jincai Zhao, Hong He
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC24021
    Accepted: 2024-03-19
    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.
  • Shuang Wang, Xin Zhang, Miao Sun, Hongjuan Duan, Haijun Zhang, Shaoping Li
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC230813a
    Accepted: 2024-03-13
    Lignocellulose aerogels possess excellent properties of low density, high porosity, low thermal conductivity and so on, making them widely utilized in thermal insulation, adsorption, catalysis, electromagnetic shielding, biomedical and other fields. Moreover, as a bio-based material, lignocellulose is a green, pollution-free, renewable, and sustainable material. In this paper, the latest research progress of wood-based cellulose and agricultural waste-based cellulose aerogels are reviewed. Then the current research status of lignocellulose aerogel preparation methods including freeze-drying, supercritical drying, and atmospheric drying, is summarized. In addition, for the flammability issues commonly found in lignocellulose aerogels, commonly used methods to improve the flame retardancy of lignocellulose aerogels are discussed in detail. Finally, this paper concludes the main problems in lignocellulose aerogel preparation methods and properties, and the future development direction in this field is proposed.
  • Lu-Sha Gao, Jing-Wen Li, Hui Zong, Qian-Yu Liu, Fan-Sheng Hu, Jie-Sheng Chen
    Progress in Chemistry. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC220326
    Accepted: 2022-04-01
    Water is a clean, safe, environmentally benign chemical reaction medium. Understanding the properties of water and the chemical processes in hydrothermal systems is of vital significance in the research of condensed matter chemistry. The physicochemical features of water under hydrothermal conditions greatly differ from that under normal condition, and thus the hydrothermal technique has been extended to much broader systems. In this review article, we introduce the structures of water and its clusters, the variation of their properties along with conditions, and relevant condensed matters in hydrothermal systems. We also illustrate the hydrothermal chemistry through discussing the preparation of typical materials through hydrothermal methods, hydrothermal organic reactions, and bio-hydrothermal chemistry. By relating condensed matter and hydrothermal chemistry, we hope this review will offer new ideas for comprehending hydrothermal reaction systems from the angle of condensed matter chemistry.