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The contradictory relationship between magnetism and ductility restricts further applications of FeCoV alloys in high-performance electrical machines. The role of the BCC-B2 transition, accompanied by vanadium (V) site occupancies, in magnetic moments and ductility has been explored using first-principles calculations. The variations in magnetism and ductility of FeCoV alloys are attributed to the coupling of the BCC-B2 transition and V occupancies. When V replaces Fe atoms in the equiatomic B2-FeCo alloy, the superior magnetism observed in B2-Fe 50- c Co 50 V c alloys is a consequence of the enhanced local magnetic moment of Fe and the ferrimagnetic-ferromagnetic transition in the magnetic state. Moreover, due to the preferential V occupancy in the B2 phase, the B2-Fe 46 Co 50 V 4 alloy exhibits comparable ductility to the BCC-Fe 50 Co 46 V 4 alloy. The results indicate that the increased brittleness in the B2 phase arises from the raised Peierls stress and the enhanced covalent component in interatomic bonding, which is caused by the strong hybridization between Fe and Co atoms. Pearson correlation analysis illustrates that valence electron concentration (VEC) and V content are significant factors in the contradictory relationship between magnetization and ductility. The theoretical results demonstrate that tuning the V content and atomic occupancies is helpful to achieve a trade-off between magnetization and ductility in B2-FeCoV alloys. • The coupling effect of the BCC-B2 transition and V occupations on magnetic moment and ductility. • The underlying origins of magnetism-ductility contradictory relationship. • A trade-off between magnetic moment and ductility can be obtained in B2-Fe 46 Co 50 V 4 alloy. • the magnetization can be improved by adjusting VEC and V content. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of integrated and miniaturized smart electronic devices is accompanied by an increase in the demand for high-strength flexible thermally conductive materials. Existing thermally conductive materials have limitations such as high cost, poor strength, and low efficiency; therefore, there is a demand for preparing flexible and insulating high-strength thermally conductive materials in a convenient and environment-friendly manner. In this study, a bottom-up synthesis of para-aramid nanofibers (ANF) was conducted, and ultra-thin large-scale boron nitride nanosheets (BNNS) were exfoliated by combining lithium-ion intercalation and ball milling. Finally, a composite membrane with a high thermal conductivity and pearl-layered structure was prepared by vacuum-assisted filtration. The BNNS/ANF-30 composite film had excellent mechanical properties, with a tensile strength of up to 40.3 MPa and a thermal conductivity of up to 5.5 W/mK, which are 340 % higher than those of the ANF film. Using the composite film as a substrate can achieve faster heat dissipation, effectively reducing the working temperature of light-emitting diode lights, and has great prospects for applications of thermally conductive materials. [Display omitted] • Exfoliated BNNS obtained through hydrothermal and ball milling. • ANF was prepared by bottom-up one-step polymerization synthesis. • Highly enhanced in-plane thermal conductivity up to 5.5 W m−1 k−1 with 30 wt% BNNS loading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal nitrides (TMNs), an encouraging and new class of emerging materials for energy storage devices, such as supercapacitors (SCs) and batteries, including Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), Potassium-ion batteries (KIBs), Zn-air battery, Lithium-S battery (Li-S), Sodium sulfur (Na-S), and Lithium-O 2 battery (Li-O 2) due to their wide bandgap, flat and adjacent potential similar to lithium-metal, high capacity, superior conductivity, ideal chemical stability, and tunable structure. From this perspective, Fe 2 N is the best electrode for electrochemical energy storage devices due to its brilliant electrical conductivity, high capacity, environmental friendliness, low resistance, economical and natural abundance. Large strains, due to the nano-size effect, offer large exposed areas and more active centers for charge accommodations. In the existing literature, no single review article outlines the energy storage performance of adorable Fe 2 N, a rising star in the TMNs family, and its composite electrodes for advanced energy storage technologies. The recent research progress in Fe 2 N, Fe 2 N-based nanostructures for advanced SCs, LIBs together with Na-ion, Li-S, Na-S, KIBs, Li-O 2 , and Zn-air batteries are briefly oulined in this review report. Howevetr, a sustainable strategies, structural features of various nanostructured electrodes, and the current research progress are advocated for future evaluation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, firstly, Zn x Cd 1−x S (x = 0.7, 0.5, 0.3) was synthesized. The results from testing show the photocurrent response of Zn 0.3 Cd 0.7 S is better than the other two materials. In order to improve PEC performance, different molar amount of MoO 3 was introduced to synthesize composites MoO 3 /Zn 0.3 Cd 0.7 S-Y (Y=0.10、0.20、0.25、0.30、0.40). It is found that the properties of the composites are better than MoO 3 and Zn 0.3 Cd 0.7 S. Furthermore, the results from UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV–vis DRS) and photoluminescence (PL) indicate MoO 3 /Zn 0.3 Cd 0.7 S-0.3 has the widest visible light absorption range and the most powerful photogenerated carrier separation capability in all samples. On the basis of analysis, a PEC sensor based on MoO 3 /Zn 0.3 Cd 0.7 S-0.3 was constructed to detect 4-Nitrophenol (4-NP) and hexvalent chromium (Cr (VI)). The linear range of 4-NP sensor is 0.05–100 μM, LOD is 0.028 μM (S/N = 3). For Cr (VI), these values are 0.1–240 μM and 0.019 μM, respectively. Simultaneously, the sensor has positive stability, reproducibility and selectivity, and can be utilized in actual samples. Hence, the PEC sensor based on MoO 3 /Zn 0.3 Cd 0.7 S-0.3 will have a promising application to detect 4-NP and Cr (VI). [Display omitted] • MoO 3 /Zn 0.3 Cd 0.7 S- Y composites were synthesized by hydrothermal method. • Composite material MoO 3 /Zn 0.3 Cd 0.7 S-0.3 shows excellent PEC activity. • A PEC sensor based on MoO 3 /Zn 0.3 Cd 0.7 S-0.3 was constructed to detect 4-Nitrophenol (4-NP) and hexvalent chromium (Cr (VI)). • The sensor has positive stability, reproducibility and selectivity, and can be utilized in actual samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract La 2 LiSbO 6 : Ln3+ (Ln = Eu, Ho, Dy, Sm, Tm) and La 2 LiSbO 6 : Eu3+, Bi3+ phosphors were synthesized by conventional solid state reaction method. They were characterized by X-ray diffraction patterns, SEM, photoluminescence spectra, diffuse reflectance spectra and temperature-dependent luminescence spectra. Among these doping Ln3+ ions, Eu3+ was found to be most suitable for La 2 LiSbO 6 host because of the relatively high energy transfer efficiency from host La 2 LiSbO 6 and the high quenching concentration. By co-doping Bi3+ ions, the fluorescent intensity of La 2 LiSbO 6 :Eu3+ could be further significantly increased. The energy transfer efficiency and the energy transfer mechanism in La 2 LiSbO 6 : Ln3+and La 2 LiSbO 6 :Eu3+, Bi3+ were procured. The good thermal stability of the composition optimized La 1.63 Bi 0.01 Eu 0.36 LiSbO 6 phosphor was also illustrated by the temperature-dependent luminescence spectra. These merits demonstrated this material could be a potential candidate as the red light component in the field of phosphor – converted LEDs. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Different energy transfer efficiencies from La 2 LiSbO 6 to rare earth ions are observed. • Adding sensitizing ion Bi3+ can enhance the luminescence of La 2 LiSbO 6 :Eu3+. • La 2 LiSbO 6 :Eu3+,Bi3+ phosphors can emit ideal red light excited by near-ultraviolet. • La 2 LiSbO 6 :Eu3+,Bi3+ phosphor has good thermal stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Interface passivation layer deposited onto photoanodes has been proven to be an available way to suppress charge recombination and enhance the power conversion efficiency in quantum dot-sensitized solar cells. In this work, the ZnS-MnS composites layers inserted in ZnO/CdS nanotubes photoanodes interface is firstly fabricated via ion-exchange and chemical bath deposition methods, simultaneously. By inserting the ZnS-MnS composites, electron back transfer is efficiently hindered. In addition, the uniform ZnS-MnS layer effectively blocks the direct contact between the polysulfide electrolyte and ZnO nanotubes, which inhabits the recombination of electron-hole pairs occurred at the interface. Besides, the MnS layer is in favour of the CdS quantum dots in higher load, profiting the light absorption intensity in the visible light region. Thus ZnO/ZnS-MnS/CdS nanotubes quantum dot-sensitized solar cells have efficiency of 3.62%, which is much higher than that of the solar cell with ZnS passivation layer (2.33%). This work demonstrates that constructing ZnS-MnS interface passivation layer with a proper band gap structure is a promising approach to enhance the performance of quantum dot-sensitized solar cells. Highlights • The ZnS-MnS composites passivation layer is fabricated between ZnO nanotube and CdS. • The presence of MnS is in favour of the loading of CdS quantum dots on the nanotube. • ZnS-MnS passivation layer inhibits the electron back transfer. • ZnO/ZnS-MnS/CdS QDSSCs exhibits a higher efficiency of 3.62% than ZnO/ZnS/CdS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract To better understand the influence of alloying elements on the mechanical properties of Mg-X (Al, Sn, Ca, Y, Sc, Er, Gd, and Nd) binary alloys, the local interactions between the solute atoms and basal screw dislocation cores were investigated using first-principles calculations. It is revealed that Rare Earth (Y, Sc, Er, Gd, and Nd) and Ca solute atoms can hinder the dissociation behavior of the full basal dislocation core to different extents. Moreover, Y, Sc, and Er tend to stabilize the perfect Burgers vector of basal dislocations. Furthermore, Sn, Y, and Nd were selected to access the interactions between solute atoms and partial dislocations. It is found that Y and Nd can alter the structure of partial dislocation and reduce the width of the stacking fault at specific locations. By comparison, Al and Sn solutes slightly influence the width of the stacking fault. The energies of relaxed basal dislocation cores decorated by Rare Earth and Ca are significantly lower than those decorated by Al and Sn, which suggests that a stronger binding is present between Rare Earth elements, Ca solute atoms, and basal dislocation cores. Moreover, non-planar basal dislocation cores would be induced by Rare Earth solutes. Finally, the physical factors of alloying elements influencing dislocation core structures and the implications of the diverse geometries of dislocation cores to mechanical properties of Mg alloys are discussed. Highlights • Some RE solute atoms tend to stabilize the full state of basal dislocation. • Basal dislocation cores would transform to be non-planar incurred by RE additions. • Strong binding between basal dislocation cores and RE and Ca solute atoms is found. • Al and Sn atoms slightly affect the structure of basal dislocation core. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This work is aimed at understanding the influence of pore size of titanium (Ti) substrate on the capacitive properties of boron doped diamond (BDD) electrode. BDD films were deposited on Ti substrates with five different pore sizes - 2.5, 5.0, 20.0, 30.0, 50.0 μm - using hot filament chemical vapor deposition (HFCVD). The pore size of substrate was found to cause significant variations in surface structure and capacitive properties of the Ti/BDD electrodes. The optimum pore size that resulted in best surface structure and capacitive properties was found to be 30.0 μm. The Ti 30.0 /BDD electrode was found to possess higher sp 2-C bonds content, sp 3-C bond with doped boron atom, more closely interlaced grains and bigger specific surface area than other electrodes. The maximum capacitance obtained for Ti 30.0 /BDD electrode was 53.3 mF cm−2, with minimum impedance value R ct of 4.8 Ω. The minimum capacitance of 1.07 mF cm−2 was obtained for the Ti 50 /BDD electrode, and the maximum impedance value R ct of 290 Ω was obtained by the Ti 20.0 /BDD electrode. Furthermore, the Ti 30 /BDD electrode possessed a favorable electrochemical stability of capacitance retention of 89.3% after 2070 cycles. A mechanism by which pore size affects the capacitance properties of the Ti/BDD electrode is proposed and discussed in this paper. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • Preparation of porous electrode by introducing the porous metal substrate directly. • The maximum capacitance of 53.3 mF cm−2 was observed at scan rate of 10 mV/s. • Ti 30 /BDD electrode was observed a capacitance retention of 89.3% after 2070 cycles. • Influence of pore size on capacitive property of the Ti/BDD electrode was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, in-situ electron back-scattered diffraction analysis was carried out to systematically investigate dominant mechanism for twinning process during re-compression after intermediate annealing in Mg alloys containing 0.03 at% and 0.18% at% Nd. The results show that twin growth is the dominant mechanism for both alloys during re-compression after annealing, while twin nucleation is the dominant mechanism for both alloys without annealing. Furthermore, the contribution of nucleation to twinning process decreases with the increase of Nd concentration for the alloys without annealing, while the contribution of nucleation increases with the increase of Nd concentration after annealing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional Ti 3 C 2 MXene is prepared by a combination of ball milling and HF etching of Ti 3 AlC 2 powder. Effects of etching temperature and ball milling duration on the preparation and electrochemical performance of as-prepared Ti 3 C 2 MXene are investigated in detail. It is found that higher etching temperature and longer ball milling duration lead to faster transformation from Ti 3 AlC 2 to Ti 3 C 2 MXene. The ball milling treatment can improve the capacitive of Ti 3 C 2 MXene. This improvement in the performance is attributed to higher carbon content for better conductivity and faster transportation of electrons, and the larger surface area for more access of aqueous electrolyte to the electrode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Considerable attention has been paid to design multifunctional hybrid materials for developing novel optoelectronic systems. Here, a series of novel porphyrin decorated Bi 2 O 2 CO 3 nanocomposites (BOC/TPP) loaded with different porphyrin contents was prepared by a facile solvothermal technique to maximize the photocatalysis and optical nonlinearity. The photoresponsive range of the BOC/TPP nanocomposites can be extended from UV to visible light, and the band gap can be continuously tuned. The wide absorption of the as-prepared nanocomposites in the visible light region makes them suitable for photocatalytic and nonlinear transmission studies. The associated photocatalysis and optical nonlinearity for the BOC/TPP nanocomposites are shown to be dependent on the contents of porphyrin. Compared to BOC, TPP and other prepared nanocomposites with different TPP loadings, the BOC/0.03TPP nanocomposite with 3 wt% TPP exhibits the highest photocatalytic performance and nonlinear optical absorption effect, due to the efficient interfacial charge transfer and the strong interfacial electronic interactions between TPP and BOC. These findings provide an ideal scientific platform to guide the rational design of difunctional nanomaterials with desired optoelectronic performances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a strategy for the modification of an ion-exchange resin (D113) as an inexpensive carbon source to obtain a macrospherical photocatalyst precursor that can be transformed into a stable all-solid-state Z-scheme heterojunction catalyst (denoted Bi 2 O 3 -Co 3 O 4 @C). X-ray diffractometry and Fourier transform infrared and Raman spectroscopy measurements confirmed the presence of highly graphitized carbon in the complex. Significantly, the cost of the as-prepared material was only 1/200 of that of commercial carbon nanotubes and 1/80 of that of graphene oxide. Aided by the organic carbon source, Bi 2 O 3 -Co 3 O 4 @C showed an enhanced light absorption, hindered electron–hole recombination, and an enhanced photocurrent response. Under simulated solar irradiation, Bi 2 O 3 -Co 3 O 4 @C (20 mg/L) showed degradation efficiencies of 100%, 47.52%, 94.28%, and 100% for methylene blue, rhodamine B, tetracycline, and Cr(VI), respectively, after 120 min. Herein, the highest turnover frequency (TOF) obtained under irradiation was 2.5 h−1 for Cr(VI). Further, the degradation efficiency for methylene blue trihydrate remained 91.46% after five cycles, indicating significantly higher stability than that of a catalyst prepared without graphitic carbon. The optimized band structure and photocatalytic mechanism of Bi 2 O 3 -Co 3 O 4 @C were determined based on ultraviolet-visible measurements and plane-wave density functional theory calculations in VASP. The findings of this study indicate the promise of the Bi 2 O 3 -Co 3 O 4 @C macrospheres for industrial applications based on their photocatalytic performance, high stability, low cost, and suitable particle size. [Display omitted] • Z-scheme heterojunction was constructed under the mediation of graphitized carbon. • Bi 2 O 3 -Co 3 O 4 @C optimized structure promoted light absorption and photocurrent response. • Bi 2 O 3 -Co 3 O 4 @C showed better photocatalytic performance than binary and pure samples. • Combined with DFT calculation, all-solid Z-scheme mechanism of reaction was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, a novel CoCuFeNiTiV 0.6 high entropy alloy interlayer was used for vacuum diffusion bonding of TiAl alloy and TC4 titanium alloy. The effects of bonding temperature and pressure on the interfacial microstructure, element diffusion behavior and mechanical properties of the joint were investigated. According to the microscopic morphological characteristics of the joint, it is divided into four zones. Zone I and zone III are the TiAl side interface diffusion layer and the TC4 interface diffusion layer, respectively. Zone II is the bonded high-entropy interlayer, and zone IV is the diffusion region of the TC4 substrate. Three diffusion layers of B2 phase, Al(Cu, Ni)Ti and Al(Co, Ni) 2 Ti phase were formed in zone I, while two diffusion layers of Ti-rich IMC and Ti 2 Ni phase were formed in zone III. With the increase of bonding temperature and pressure, the different diffusion layers on the TiAl side interface gradually thickened, and the β-Ti region on the TC4 side became wider and the Widmanstätten microstructure increased. The mechanical properties of the joints were evaluated by nanoindentation and shear tests. The hardness and elastic modulus at the TiAl side interface are up to 8.12 GPa and 158 Gpa, respectively, which is easy to cause stress concentration. The maximum shear strength reached 96.2 MPa bonded for 60 min at 960 ℃ under 1.7 MPa. The fracture location in the joint generally occurs at the interface of the Al(Cu, Ni)Ti layer/Al(Co, Ni) 2 Ti layer/HEA interlayer, and the fracture is mainly characterized by brittleness. • Diffusion bonding of TiAl alloys to TC4 titanium alloys was performed using high-entropy alloys as interlayers. • The interlayer alloy can combine the advantages of toughness of FCC phase and strength of BCC phase. • The mechanism of the effect of high entropy effect and sluggish diffusion effect on the bonding process is discussed. • Dynamic recrystallization and atomic interdiffusion at the interface effectively formation the joint microstructure. • The growth rate of the reaction layer with higher growth activation energy is faster. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mesoporous TiO 2 nanocrystals were hydrothermally synthesized and then dispersed in graphene oxide (GO) solution through ultrasonicated treatment. Visible light photocatalysts incorporating TiO 2 nanocrystals and reduced GO (TiO 2 -rGO) were obtained by subsequent rapid solidification with liquid nitrogen, freeze-drying and heat treatment in flowing nitrogen. The resulting samples were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission election microscopy (TEM), Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, diffuse reflectance ultraviolet–visible (DR UV–Vis) spectroscopy and nitrogen adsorption-desorption. Their adsorption capacity and visible light photocatalytic degradation activity in the elimination of rhodamine B (RhB) were evaluated at room temperature. The results showed that the mesoporous TiO 2 nanoparticles were well dispersed onto rGO, leading to the enhanced adsorption of RhB and absorption of visible light. Consequently, the resulting TiO 2 -rGO hybrids showed outstanding efficiency for the elimination of RhB. Furthermore, the content of rGO had substantial influences on the photocatalytic performance of hybrids, which was the best for the hybrid with a content of rGO of 20% [TiO 2 -rGO(20)]. The adsorptive efficiency in the elimination of RhB dye with an initial concentration of 20.0 mg L −1 was as high as 66.7% and the photo-degradation efficiency may reach up to 81% under visible light irradiation over 10.0 mg of TiO 2 -rGO(20). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By using density functional theory (DFT) method, the phase stability, elastic properties, Debye temperature and electronic structure of zirconium trigallide (Ga 3 Zr) have been investigated. The polymorphs of D 0 22 - and L l 2 -Ga 3 Zr are compared under various pressures from 0 GPa to 60 GPa. The results show that phase transition from D 0 22 -Ga 3 Zr to L l 2 -Ga 3 Zr will occur when pressure is over 28.48–36.34 GPa. With the pressure going up, the elastic constants, mechanical moduli and Debye temperature of both phases increase. For L 1 2 -Ga 3 Zr, better ductility and lower Debye temperature of L 1 2 -Ga 3 Zr is confirmed. The pressure-induced Zr-4d delocalization can strengthen its orbital hybridization with Ga(s,p), which leads to stronger atomic bonding, and subsequently makes the L 1 2 -Ga 3 Zr more stable under high pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nano onion-like carbons (NOLCs) have been synthesized by chemical vapor deposition (CVD) at 800 °C using methane as the carbon source and high-temperature steam treated 316 stainless steel mesh as the catalyst, respectively. The phase composition, microstructure and microwave absorption properties of prepared unpurified and purified NOLCs have been characterized by XRD, SEM, TEM, Raman spectroscopy, and vector network analyzer, respectively. Results show that the unpurified NOLC is a core-shell structure with Fe-Ni compound particle as the core and carbon as the shell and the purified NOLC is a hollow structure. The microwave absorption property of the unpurified NOLC is much better than that of purified NOLC in the frequency range of 8.2–12.4 GHz. The minimum reflection coefficient (RC) value of −42.04 dB was achieved at 9.02 GHz and the bandwidths of RC < −10 dB are 0.54 GHz (matching thickness of 3 mm, from 8.2 GHz to 8.74 GHz), 2.23 GHz (matching thickness of 2.5 mm, from 8.2 GHz to 10.43 GHz), and 2.36 GHz (matching thickness of 2 mm from 10.04 GHz to 12.4 GHz), respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrafine lamellar-structured FeCrAl alloys with excellent mechanical properties were prepared via manipulating the content of Al 1.8 CrCuFeNi 2 particles by spark plasma sintering and mechanical milling. The microstructure shows a typical lamellar-structured with some fine equiaxed grains. Interestingly, the ultrafine lamellar-structured FeCrAl alloys show an ultrahigh tensile strength of 1445 Mpa and 151 Mpa at RT and 800 °C, respectively, which improves by about 247 % and 321 % than FeCrAl alloys, as well as a good elongation of 5.9 % and 15.1 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring for red-emitting phosphor materials with supper property plays a key role in the development of white light-emitting diodes (WLEDs). Simultaneously, the crystal structure has a crucial effect on its luminescence properties. In this work, we synthesized a type of new red-emitting Li 4 Ca 2 B 8 O 16 : Eu3+ phosphor via the solid-state reaction. The phase purity, crystal structure, surface morphology, decay behavior, thermal stability, the correspondence between local symmetry and luminescence properties were investigated in detail. Under the optimal 393 nm excitation, Li 4 Ca 2 B 8 O 16 : 0.33Eu3+ shows a strong red emission located at 612 nm ascribed to the 5D 0 →7F 2 transition of Eu3+. The calculated Judd-Ofelt parameters (Ω 2 and Ω 4) have clarified that Eu3+ has lower symmetry without an inversion center, resulting in the high value of R/O (the emission intensity ratio of 5D 0 →7F 2 to 5D 0 →7F 1) of 7.95 at x = 0.33 mol. The Li 4 Ca 2 B 8 O 16 : 0.33Eu3+ phosphor exhibits a high color purity of 94.99% with the chromaticity coordinates of (0.6547, 0.3449), perfect internal quantum efficiency (99.75%) and excellent thermal stability at high temperature (90.91% at 150 °C). The results indicate that this new Li 4 Ca 2 B 8 O 16 : Eu3+ phosphor can be used as the potential red component for pc-WLEDs. [Display omitted] • A series of new red-emitting Eu3+ doped Li 4 Ca 2 B 8 O 16 phosphors have been synthesized. • The incorporation of more Eu3+ ions leads to lower structural coordinated symmetry and higher color purity. • The Li 4 Ca 2 B 8 O 16 :0.33Eu3+ owns a high color purity of 94.99% and CIE of (0.6547, 0.3449). • Compared with the emission intensity at 25 °C, the overall emission intensity still remains 90.91% at 150 °C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, flower-shaped SnIn 4 S 8 grew on the surface of ZnO was synthesized by solvothermal method to detect hexavalent chromium (Cr (VI)). The composition, surface structure, valence state, photoelectric capability of ZnO/SnIn 4 S 8 were investigated through a series of characterizations. The results found ZnO/SnIn 4 S 8 composites show better photocatalytic activities than these of ZnO and SnIn 4 S 8. Meanwhile, the mass ratio of ZnO/SnIn 4 S 8 could affect the photoelectric properties. When the mass ratio is 1: 4 (ZnO/SnIn 4 S 8 -4), it has the best performances among all the composites. Density function theory calculation (DFT) confirms the increased properties could originate from the form of a Z-scheme heterojunction between ZnO and SnIn 4 S 8 , which facilitates charge separation through the action of an internal electric field, and retains strong redox ability of electrons (e-) or holes (h+). When the photoelectrochemical sensor based on ZnO/SnIn 4 S 8 -4 was used to detect Cr (VI), it shows the linearity between 0.5 and 300 μM, and limit of detection is 0.039 μM. Thus, Z-scheme ZnO/SnIn 4 S 8 heterojunction will provide new insights and potential application in Cr (VI) detection. • ZnO/SnIn 4 S 8 heterojunction was synthesized for detecting Cr (VI). • The photoelectrochemical sensor based on ZnO/SnIn 4 S 8 has potential applications in Cr (VI) detetion. • Density function theory calculation confirms the rationality of Z-scheme ZnO/SnIn 4 S 8 heterojunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the flaky graphite/cobalt zinc ferrite composites were synthesized by the coprecipitation method. The XRD results showed that the flaky graphite/cobalt zinc ferrite composites can be obtained and there is no impurity when the graphite weight ratio is less than 20 wt%. The FE-SEM results exhibited that the flaky graphite/cobalt zinc ferrite composites possessed flake-like shape with high aspect ratio. Moreover, the electromagnetic properties could be tuned by varying the graphite weight ratio. In the series of as-prepared flaky graphite/cobalt zinc ferrite composites, the sample with 10 wt% graphite possessed excellent impedance matching performance. As a result, the it exhibited the best microwave absorption properties. The reflection loss was less than −10 dB in frequency range of 10.3–13.5 GHz and the maximum reflection loss was reach to −33.85 dB at 11.7 GHz when the coating thickness was 2.5 mm. Moreover, the electromagnetic analysis demonstrated that the electromagnetic loss properties and the electromagnetic impedance matching performance should be both satisfied to obtain the excellent microwave absorption properties. This study was meaningful to design the ferrite/carbon composites based microwave absorbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The porous hollow BaFe 12 O 19 /CoFe 2 O 4 microrods were prepared by an easy and reproducible in situ synthetic method. Cotton cellulose was used as the sacrificial bio-template. The as-prepared hard/soft ferrite composites were homogeneously distributed on the surface of the microrods. It was demonstrated that the porous hollow microrods-like structure and the exchange-coupled interaction between hard and soft ferrites were beneficial to improve the microwave absorption properties. The weight content of the hard/soft ferrite composites was low to 60 wt%, whereas reflection loss could reach to −10 dB in the frequency range of 8.2–16.3 GHz. The fabrication of porous hollow BaFe 12 O 19 /CoFe 2 O 4 microrods was an efficient approach to solve the heavy mass problem of the conventional hard/soft ferrite matrix microwave absorption materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the Ni x Zn (1− x ) Fe 2 O 4 ( x = 0.2, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.8) ferrite nanofibers were synthesized by electrospinning method. The microstructure, electromagnetic properties and microwave absorption mechanisms were analyzed (in detail). The results indicated that the nanofiber diameter, the saturation magnetization, the coercivity and the electromagnetic properties could be optimized by tuning the Ni 2+ content. The Ni 0.5 Zn 0.5 Fe 2 O 4 ferrite nanofiber finally performed the excellent microwave absorption properties. The reflection loss was less than −10 dB in the whole X -band frequencies. The analysis of microwave absorption mechanism indicated that the microwave absorption bandwidth was mainly depended on the input impedance matching, the enhanced electromagnetic loss properties ensured that the entering wave could be mostly absorbed, and the frequency appearing the reflection loss peak was determined by the absorber thickness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polyaniline (PANI)-derived nitrogen-doped carbon nanofibres used as cathode electrodes in situ generate and activate H 2 O 2 to form •OH without metal catalysts. The degradation rates of ciprofloxacin hydrochloride (CIP) and methyl orange (MO) were 99.64% and 100%, respectively, and the mineralisation rates were 54.24% and 62.56% at the modified metal-free Fenton system for microbial fuel cells (MFC-Fenton) cathode. Micropores were introduced into the electrode to provide active sites such as pyridinic N and graphitic N, which improves the electron transfer rate and redox activity, as well as exhibiting excellent power generation capacity (783.48 ± 10.52 mV and 33.57 ± 0.14 W m− 3) in comparison with a single MFC process (543.14 ± 3.56 mV and 11.02 ± 1.03 W m− 3). The degradation intermediates and mechanisms of this process were studied in detail. This study provides a new understanding of MFC-Fenton systems for removing practical organic pollutants in wastewater. [Display omitted] • Efficient metal-free PANI electrode was synthesized by a electrodeposited method. • H 2 O 2 in-situ generated and activated for efficient degradation of CIP. • The prepared electrode firstly used as reusable metal-free MFC-Fenton cathode. • ESR confirmed the existence of •OH and the mechanism of degradation process. • Taking CIP as a pollutant, the three degradation path of intermediates was studied. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interstitial alloying has been proved to be a promising option to improve the mechanical properties in various commercial alloys. Herein, we systematically investigate the microstructure evolution and mechanical property change of CoCrFeMnNi high-entropy alloys (HEAs) with varied nitrogen contents as an interstitial alloying element. To equilibrate the thermal history, all the alloys are heat-treated as follows: homogenization (1100 ℃ for 20 h), cold-rolling (reduction ratio of 60%), and subsequent annealing (900 ℃ for 3 min). In N1 alloy (CoCrFeMnNi HEA with 1 at% of nitrogen doping), we could observe fully recrystallized grains with a small amount of Cr 2 N precipitates. As the nitrogen contents increased to 3 at% (N3 alloy), the recrystallization was significantly retarded by the formation of 3 different types of Cr 2 N precipitates, leading to having ~60% of non-recrystallized grains. Furthermore, the various precipitates let the alloy have a heterogeneous complex microstructure. With increasing nitrogen contents, the yield strength and ultimate tensile strength can be improved without significant reduction of ductility, which exceeds those of Cantor HEA by nearly a factor of two. The effect of each strengthening mechanism on the improved strength in heterogeneous complex microstructure is systematically discussed. These results are expected to provide a novel guideline on how to effectively control key properties of HEAs by interstitial alloying through tailoring of heterogeneous microstructure as well as the inherent complexity of HEAs. [Display omitted] • Strengthening by tailoring microstructural complexity in nitrogen interstitial HEAs. • Presenting guidelines on how to control recrystallization and Cr 2 N precipitation. • Elucidating the role of each mechanism on improved strength in N interstitial HEAs. • Providing deep insight how to control key properties of HEAs by interstitial alloying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The microstructure of horizontal continuous casting Al–12%Si alloy billets was optimized by fine-grained structural materials of the same composition as the master alloy. The effect of fine-grained structural materials on the morphologies and crystal defects of eutectic Si was studied by SEM, TEM and HRTEM. The results show that the secondary dendrite arm spacing of α-Al decreases and the morphologies of eutectic Si change from coarse needle-like to fine fibrous shape with 30% master alloy addition. Furthermore, the nature and distribution of the defects inside Si crystals are quite different as before. Two oblique crossing sets of twins present in the modified eutectic Si. In addition, the TEM and HRTEM results reveal that the growth mechanism of eutectic Si transforms from step growth to twin plane re-entrant growth mechanism due to the addition of fine-grained structural materials. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Barium hexagonal ferrite BaZn2Fe16O27 was rapidly synthesized by adsorbent combustion method. The whole preparation time was controlled within 8h. The microstructures were studied using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared (FT–IR). The results showed that the pure BaZn2Fe16O27 was obtained after calcined at 1200°C and the particles exhibited homogeneous hexagonal-plate shape with high aspect ratio. Moreover, the complex permeability and the complex permittivity were measured in the frequency range of 8–12GHz (X-band) and 12–18GHz (Ku -band) using the network analyzer. The as-prepared ferrite exhibited strong magnetic loss properties. The microwave absorbing properties of the single BaZn2Fe16O27 ferrite layer with different thicknesses were also analyzed. The results showed that the minimum reflection loss was −15.3dB and the bandwidth of reflection loss less than −10dB reached 7.7GHz with the absorber thickness only 1.7mm. The adsorbent combustion method is a kind of ideal method to rapidly prepare barium hexagonal ferrite with excellent microwave absorbing properties. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: TiO2 modified with Nd2O3 (Nd–TiO2) nanoparticles were prepared by a co-precipitation method and utilized as the photocatalysts for the degradation of Rhodamine B (RhB). The influence of Nd2O3 on the bulk and surface phase, surface area, particle size, and optical response of TiO2 was investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), UV Raman spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), BET, and UV–visible diffuse reflectance spectra. It is found that the crystalline phase and phase composition in the bulk and surface region of Nd–TiO2 calcined at high temperatures can be tuned by changing the amount of Nd2O3. Based on the results from XPS, EDX, XRD, and UV Raman spectra, it is assumed that Nd3+ ions do not enter the TiO2 lattice, but highly disperse onto the Nd–TiO2 particle surface in the form of Nd2O3 crystallites. These crystallites inhibit the agglomeration, growth in crystal size, and anatase-to-rutile phase transformation of TiO2. In the photocatalytic degradation of RhB reaction, Nd–TiO2 nanoparticles with higher surface area and wider optical response are more reactive in case of the same surface anatase phase. When the mixed phases of anatase and rutile exist in the surface region of Nd–TiO2, the synergetic effect over surface area and optical response is the important parameter which determines optimal photocatalytic activity. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Multiwalled carbon nanotubes were successfully coated with Pt nanoparticles through NH3 gas pretreatment. Pt with particle size distribution of 1–4nm was highly dispersed on carbon nanotubes. Cyclic voltammetry of ferrocyanide system was used to characterize the real electroactive surface area of platinum nanoparticle–multiwalled carbon nanotube (PtNP–MWCNT) coated glassy carbon electrode, and cyclic voltammetry for the PtNP–MWCNT coated electrode toward detecting H2O2 was measured to characterize the electrocatalytic property of the composite. Our results showed that the electroactive surface area of PtNP–MWCNT was higher than those of pristine multiwalled carbon nanotubes and Pt nanoparticles, and the composite exhibited the best electrocatalytic property for H2O2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The yield of graphene is significantly improved with the assistance of ZnO modified by polyvinyl alcohol. • High-yield graphene and graphene/ZnO composite can be prepared via the preparation method conveniently. • The graphene/ZnO composite exhibits excellent photodegradation performance under simulated sunlight irradiation. • The exfoliation mechanism of graphite and photocatalytic mechanism of graphene/ZnO composite are proposed. [Display omitted] In this paper, high-yield graphene (GRZ) and visible light-driven photocatalyst graphene/ZnO (GR/ZnO) composite were efficiently prepared by combining ball-milling and liquid-phase exfoliation (LPE) under mild conditions, in which ZnO-PVA (ZnO modified by polyvinyl alcohol) played a crucial intensification role. The addition of ZnO-PVA in ball-milling process could increase the yield of graphene from 16.7% to 32.9% compared with that without ZnO-PVA. High yield of graphene, obtaining GR/ZnO composite conveniently along with the ease of ZnO-PVA particles removal from graphene solution are the unique features of this approach. A series of characterizations such as UV–vis, SEM, TEM, EDS, XRD, Raman, XPS, EIS were carried out to explore the structure, morphology and characteristics of graphene and GR/ZnO composite, as well as the exfoliation mechanism of graphite and photocatalytic mechanism of GR/ZnO. Moreover, the as-prepared GR/ZnO showed significantly enhanced photocatalytic activity under simulated sunlight irradiation, in which 74.3% of methylene blue (MB) and 95.5% of Rhodamine B (RhB) was decomposed after 180 min. The relatively low-cost, simple and efficient preparation method of graphene and GR/ZnO composite is promising for large-scale application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Microstructure evolution during homogenization of a low-alloying τ-type Mg–Zn–Al magnesium alloy with a nominal composition of Mg–7% Zn–3% Al was investigated in this paper, using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, differential scanning calorimetry analysis and quantitative image analysis. A anneal treatment following rapid cooling to ambient temperature from homogenization isothermal temperature was adopted to assess the homogenization degree in respect to microchemical distribution. The results show that shorter holding time results in so-called in situ precipitation phenomena, which is attributed to the insufficient diffusion of the element Zn and Al from solute-rich grain boundary region to inner side of grain during homogenization. A homogenization treatment at 325°C for at least 50h is just enough allowing complete homogenization for such alloy, in point of both morphology and microchemistry of the microstructure, which is deemed to be a key precondition for the optimum combined properties through proper thermal–mechanical treatment. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

With the consumption of fossil, it is crucial to develop alternative energy. Hydrogen has gained increasing interest owing to its recyclability and environmental friendly. Recently, many researchers have tried using porous boron nitride (BN) as the co-catalyst to enhance the efficiency of photocatalytic hydrogen production from water. In this mini-review, we summarize these recent advances, and show how to employ porous BN for photocatalytic hydrogen production. The role of BN in BN based photocatalysts is discussed in depth. The photocatalytic mechanisms of doped BN, BN based mixtures and BN based heterojunctions are studied. We highlighted some typical research for the enhanced absorbance of visible light enabled by narrowing bandgap using defect engineering first, and then we summarized the Z-scheme heterojunctions coupling BN with semiconductors, which could improve the photocatalytic activity of semiconductors due to their surface charge transfer properties. At last, we end this mini-review by concerning more strategies for BN based heterostructures. We believe that this review will be helpful for the developments of novel and sustainable BN based heterostructures with greater activities in many environmental and energy-related fields. ga1 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A composite solid electrolyte based on Al-doped Li 7-3x Al x La 3 Zr 2 O 12 (LALZO) was synthesized by the sol-gel method. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) were used to characterize Li 7 La 3 Zr 2 O 12 (LLZO) precursors with different Al doping concentrations. The results show that LLZO precursor doped with 0.4 mol% Al (LALZO-4) has high stability and good crystallinity. Further, this composite solid electrolyte was co-coated with carbon to optimize the LiFePO 4 battery. Electrochemical performance tests show that the LiFePO 4 /C battery with 5% LALZO-4 precursor (LFP-5) exists in the form of uniformly dispersed spherical particles, and exhibits excellent cycling stability and high rate performance. In addition, the LALZO-4 coating layer can increase the diffusion rate by reducing the charge transfer resistance. • Al with varying concentrations (0–0.5 mol%) is directly doped in LLZO solid electrolyte using the sol-gel route. • The effects of different addition amounts (0–10 wt%) of LALZO-4 and carbon co-coating LiFePO 4 particles on their surface morphology and electrochemical performance were systematically investigated. • Rate performance of LiFePO 4 batteries were effectively improved by the commodification of LiFePO 4 material with 5% LALZO-4 and carbon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To reveal the relationship between the microstructural morphologies, tensile behaviors, and strain hardening mechanism of Cr-Mn-Si-Ni alloyed ultra-strength steel, uniaxial tensile tests of a Cr-Mn-Si-Ni alloyed steel were conducted at room temperature (RT) and elevated temperatures with different strain rates in this study. When the tensile test was carried out at RT, increased strain rate led to increased dislocation density of the tensed Cr-Mn-Si-Ni alloyed steel specimen and resulted in increased value of yield strength. Because the dislocation entanglement and strain hardening of tensed Cr-Mn-Si-Ni alloyed steel were inhibited by increased strain rate, decreased value of ultimate strength was measured. During tensile test at RT, the dislocations rearranged and transformed to low-angle grain boundaries and high-angle grain boundaries sequentially. Above microstructural evolution resulted in microstructural refinement of Cr-Mn-Si-Ni alloyed steel. The strain hardening of Cr-Mn-Si-Ni alloyed steel during tensile test at RT was divided into four stages according to the calculated values of strain hardening rate. The microstructural evolution behaviors including accumulation of dislocations, generation and transformation of slips took place in different stages of strain hardening were affected significantly by the strain rate. Based on the true stress-true strain curves, the effects of the tensile temperature and strain rate on the values of the yield strain, fracture strain, yield strength, and ultimate strength of Cr-Mn-Si-Ni alloyed steel tensed under different experimental conditions were studied. A two-stage constitutive model of Cr-Mn-Si-Ni alloyed steel associated with dislocation density was established based on the experimental results. • Strain hardening of tensed Cr-Mn-Si-Ni alloyed steel was divided into 4 stages. • Microstructural refinement of Cr-Mn-Si-Ni alloyed steel during tensile deformation at RT was studied. • A two-stage constitutive model of Cr-Mn-Si-Ni alloyed steel was established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The carrier spin polarization of magnetic materials is one of the most critical elements for current-driven spintronics devices. Experimental evidence of spin polarization of magnetic oxides is still a matter of considerable debate although room-temperature ferromagnetism was reported in nearly all doped/undoped oxides materials. In this work, we systematically study the carrier spin polarization and non-uniform magnetization scattering of Zn 1−x Fe x Al 0.01 O (x = 0.05, 0.10) thin films in metallic regime. Spin polarization 65 ± 8% is confirmed experimentally for Zn 0.95 Fe 0.05 Al 0.01 O by Andreev Reflection spectroscopy, which reduces to 40 ± 5% for Zn 0.90 Fe 0.10 Al 0.01 O as Fe doping level increases to 10%. Magnetoresistance and Anomalous Hall effect are observed in Zn 1−x Fe x Al 0.01 O films which corroborates the spin-polarized carrier in spin-split bands close to the Fermi level. Furthermore, combining element mapping and Andreev reflection spectra, our results support that non-uniform magnetization of Zn 1−x Fe x Al 0.01 O films which introduces large inelastic spin-flip scattering at the interface of Zn 1−x Fe x Al 0.01 O/Pb superconducting junctions, and consequently reduction of spin polarization. The spin-polarized carrier and transport behaviors in Zn 1−x Fe x Al 0.01 O magnetic oxides provide the reliable evidence to identify the intrinsic ferromagnetism and an excellent platform for spintronics device applications. [Display omitted] • Spin polarization of carrier 65 ± 8% was determined quantitatively in Zn 0.95 Fe 0.05 Al 0.01 O thin film for the first time. • Carrier spin polarization and transport offer a reliable evidence to identify intrinsic ferromagnetism of doped oxides. • Element mapping and Andreev reflection spectra, confirm non-uniform magnetization distribution in Zn 0.90 Fe 0.10 Al 0.01 O film. • Ferromagnetism and Anomalous Hall effect of Zn 1−x Fe x Al 0.01 O films corroborate spin-split bands close to the Fermi level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Because of high temperature process, it has been a challenge to fabricate flexible piezoelectric or ferroelectric devices based on PbZr 0.53 Ti 0.47 O 3 (PZT). In this work, a high-quality flexible PZT film is successfully fabricated by the controlled spalling technology (CST). The PZT film deposited on sapphire substrate using sol-gel method is transferred onto a flexible polyimide (PI) substrate through electroplating Ni stressor layer, realizing the flexible heterogeneous integration of PZT film and PI substrate. The obtained PZT film exhibits a good crystalline perovskite structure and a smooth surface before and after spalling process. The ferroelectric response of the spalled PZT film based on Au/PZT/Au structure does not show obvious deterioration under different mechanical deformation, which indicates good ferroelectric property and stable mechanical performance. Further, the film on flexible Ni layer has the better piezoelectric property compared with that on conventional rigid Pt/Ti/SiO 2 /Si substrate. This work has the important significance for the development of flexible ferroelectric and piezoelectric devices like sensors, memorizers and nanogenerators. • High-quality PZT film on sapphire is successfully transferred onto flexible PI by CST. • Ferroelectric performance of spalled PZT film does not deteriorate after deformation. • The spalled PZT film on flexible Ni layer has a better piezoelectric property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract The semiconductor photoelectrodes with sufficient light absorption, efficient photogenerated carrier separation and fast transport is crucial for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting. Herein, we firstly report the 1D/0D WO 3 /CdS heterojunction photoanodes modified with dual co-catalysts NiOOH and Co-Pi to realize efficient water splitting. In this quaternary photoanode, the heterojunctions restrain the recombination of photo-generated electron-hole pairs and CdS acts as a light absorber for sufficient light absorption. Besides, the amorphous dual-layer co-catalyst NiOOH (the hole storage layer) and Co-Pi (hole transfer layer) can collect and delivery the holes to the Helmholtz layer, respectively. The photoanode yields 6.4 times improved photocurrent density (2.59 mA/cm2 at 1.0 V vs RHE) in comparison with that of bare WO 3 and a 300 mV negatively shifts in onset potential. Moreover, it exhibits high efficiency and persistent stability. These results reveal that heterojunctions and the synergetic effect of the dual-layer co-catalyst could effectively improve the performance for water splitting. Especially, it provides a superior way to design photoelectrodes towards PEC application. Graphical abstract Image 1 Highlights • The dual-layer co-catalysts modified the WO 3 /CdS heterojunctions for PEC water splitting. • WO 3 /CdS/NiOOH/Co-Pi yields 6.4 times improved photocurrent density comparison with that of WO 3. • High performance due to excellent light-harvesting, efficient electron-hole pairs separation and transport. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The electronic structure and high thermoelectric properties of Ba 3 Cu 20 Te 13 are studied using first principles calculations and the semiclassical Boltzmann theory. The coexistence of ionic and covalent bonding in Ba 3 Cu 20 Te 13 indicates that it is a Zintl phase compound. The calculated band structure shows that the compound is a semiconductor with an indirect band gap ∼0.45 eV, which is an appropriate band for the high thermoelectric performance. The transport calculations based on the electronic structure indicate that it exhibits relatively large Seebeck coefficients, high electrical conductivities, and high power factor. For Ba 3 Cu 20 Te 13 , the n-type doping may achieve a higher thermoelectric performance than that of p-type doping. It is worth noting that the thermoelectric parameters of Ba 3 Cu 20 Te 13 are comparable or larger than that of Ca 5 Al 2 Sb 6 , a typical Zintl compound representative with high thermoelectric performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the present study, Ti-24Nb-4Zr-3Mn alloys were prepared by mechanical alloying and spark plasma sintering. With the increase of milling time, the particle size of alloy powder decreases, while the oxygen content shows the opposite trend. The excess O content will dramatically deteriorate the mechanical properties of Ti-24Nb-4Zr-3Mn alloy and should be strictly controlled in future studies. Among all the investigated alloys, Ti-24Nb-4Zr-3Mn alloy prepared by 20-hour milling powder (TNZM-20) shows excellent comprehensive mechanical properties with a preferable compressive strength (∼2786 MPa) and constant strain (∼ 55.3 %), as well as a highest tensile strength (∼1148 MPa) and elongation (∼11.2 %), which attribute to the combined effect of almost full density, fine grain strengthening and solid solution strengthening together with dispersion strengthening provided by FCC phase. Interestingly, the excellent combination of high strength and low elastic modulus of metastable β alloy can be obtained by manipulating the content of the FCC phase, providing a new approach for fabricating high-performance metastable β Ti alloys. • Ti-24Nb-4Zr-3Mn alloys were prepared by SPS from alloy powders milled for various times. • Ti-24Nb-4Zr-3Mn alloy prepared by 20-h milling powder shows excellent comprehensive properties. • The origination of the FCC phase has been discussed. • The strengthening mechanisms have been clarified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soft magnetic functional materials exhibit low coercivity, low power loss, and high permeability, making them highly utilized in power electronic devices. In some cases, soft magnetic components with intricate architectures are required to accomplish various tasks. The multi-material and multi-scale fabrication ability of three-dimensional printing (3DP) provides a new way for manufacturing soft magnetic devices with complex structures. The aim of the present work is to consolidate the latest advancements in the 3DP of soft magnetic materials (SMMs). The goal is to inspire future research directions by highlighting existing gaps in knowledge and potential areas for innovation. This paper summarizes recent research on 3DP of SMMs. Studies on 3DP of SMMs, such as Fe-Si and Fe-Ni alloys and soft magnetic ferrites and composites, are reviewed. Moreover, several mainstream 3DP procedures have been introduced. Furthermore, application scenarios of 3DP SMMs, including electronic components and magnetic-drive robots, are covered. Finally, the current challenges and future development trends of 3DP SMMs are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photocatalytic hydrogen production from wastewater is an effective strategy to alleviate the increasingly energy crisis. In this work, ultrathin Ti 3 C 2 T x decorated AgInZnS (AIZS-TiC) polysulfide was designed as an efficient photocatalyst for hydrogen production from tetracycline (TC) wastewater. Compared with pure AIZS, the AIZS-TiC exhibited an improved photocatalytic hydrogen production rate of 226 μmol/g/h with synergistic TC degradation. In addition, the hydrogen evaluation rate can achieve 1287 μmol/g/h under 300 W Xe light irradiation with triethanolamine as the hole sacrifice agent, which is more than three times that of pure AIZS. The systematic mechanism study indicated that the introduction of novel metalloid TiC effectively optimizes the morphology and energy band structure of AIZS. Furthermore, the matched work functions of two materials ensure the establishment of Schottky junction between AIZS and metalloid TiC, thereby enhancing the surface-active site and inter-facial charge transfer of the photocatalyst. These findings provide a valuable reference for the design and application of polysulfide and metalloid TiC in the field of photocatalytic waste to energy conversion. [Display omitted] • Ti 3 C 2 T x decorated AgInZnS was designed for waste to hydrogen conversion. • The hybrid has richer reactive sites, enhanced charge transfer and sunlight response ability. • Enhanced water splitting activity is achieved by the assistance of tetracycline. • A systematic study of photocatalytic mechanism was proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, different volume ratios (NiTiO 3 : CoFe 2 O 4 = 1:3, 2:3, 1:1) of NiTiO 3 /CoFe 2 O 4 composites were synthesized using the sol-gel method. The effects of different NiTiO 3 volume ratios on the structural, morphological, magnetic, and microwave properties were systematically investigated by X-ray diffraction spectroscopy (XRD), field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), Raman spectroscopy (RAMAN), vibrating-sample magnetometery (VSM), and vector network analysis. Electromagnetic wave absorption analysis indicated that 1:3 composite sample showed the greatest reflection loss (−21.7 dB at 17.1 GHz frequency) at a thickness of 10.0 mm. The microwave absorbing properties decrease with the increasing NiTiO 3 volume ratio. The observed improvement can be attributed to the low degree crystallization of NiTiO 3 that increases magnetic losses through increased exchange resonance. • Different volume ratios of NiTiO 3 /CoFe 2 O 4 were synthesized by sol-gel method. • Microwave absorbing properties of NiTiO 3 are very poor, nearly no broad peak with lower than − 10 dB. • 1:3 composite sample showed greatest reflection loss (−21.7 dB at 17.1 GHz) at 10.0 mm thickness. • The improvement attributed to low degree crystallization of NiTiO 3 that increases exchange resonance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Silver nanowire (Ag NW)-based transparent back electrodes prepared via all solution-process are promising for bifacial and semitransparent perovskite solar cells (PSCs). However, the inadequate electrical contact between the silver nanowires themselves and the contact with substrate leads to reduced overall solar cell performance; meanwhile, serious corrosion of Ag NW in ambient environment restricting the further applications. In this work, polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as a binder in Ag NW electrode significantly enhances the conductivity and transparency at the same time improving the interface electric contact. The PSC with PVP modified Ag NW electrode demonstrated frontside and backside efficiency approaching 18 % and 14.1 % (AM1.5, 1 Sun), respectively, which achieves 82 % efficiency with normal Ag device and bifacial factor of 79 %. The long-term storage stability of PSC is also improved by PVP protection. The final device structure is ITO/Ni O x /MeO/(FA0.92MA0.08)0.95Cs0.05Pb(I0.9Br0.1)3/PEAI/PC61BM/BCP/ Ag NW. This work highlights the method to fabricate robust transparent Ag NW electrode for bifacial perovskite solar cells. • Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) in Ag nanowire (Ag NW) electrode significantly enhances the conductivity and transparency. • PVP modified Ag NW electrode improves the interface electric contact and charge transport of the solar cell. • The Perovskite solar cell (PSC) with PVP modified Ag NW electrode demonstrated high efficiency and bifacial factor. • The long-term storage stability of PSC is also improved by PVP protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two-dimensional (2D) perovskite single crystals have risen to be prominent in the domain of optoelectronic materials due to their exceptional characteristics including notably low ion migration and defect density. A distinguishing feature is the strategic inclusion of larger organic amine spacer, alternately inserted between inorganic lead halide octahedral layers. This spacer effectively mitigates ion migration, even under higher bias voltages, which is particularly advantageous for X-ray detection. However, the simultaneous realization of multiple functions within this realm remains a formidable challenge. In this work, we have synthesized a high-quality organic spacer-incorporated single layered 2D perovskite single crystal of [CYP]PbBr 4 (CYP = 1-cyclohexylpiperazine). Our findings reveal the impressive potential of [CYP]PbBr 4 in the domain of X-ray detection, as evidenced by the ultrahigh X-ray sensitivity, long-term stability, and astonishingly low detection limit of 1.72 nGy air s-1. Notably, [CYP]PbBr 4 also emits bright broadband yellow light with quantum yield of 30.3%, and the fabricated white LED achieves a high Color Rendering Index of 94.1, which surpasses that of commercially available white LED based on YAG: Ce3+ (< 80). [Display omitted] • [CYP]PbBr 4 shows the spectral-selective photoconductivity, specifically, it is sensitive to UV-light illumination below about 400 nm but almost blind to the standard visible light (above 400 nm), showcasing the potential in visible-blind ultraviolet photodetection. • The X-ray photoconductor device, featuring an Au- [CYP]PbBr 4 -Au structure, has demonstrated outstanding sensitivity and minimal detection limit of 1.72 nGy air s-1 and exhibites enduring stability toward X-ray over 1500 min without additional protective shell. • This compound display bright broadband yellow light emissionwith moderate photoluminescence quantum yield of 30.3%. Most notably, the fabricated white LED achieves an extraordinary Color Rendering Index (CRI) of 94.1. • We believe our findings will provide valuable insights into the rationa design of new 2D organic-inorganic hybrid halides for advanced X-ray detection and solid-state lighting applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catalyst surface active oxygen species have an important influence on plasma catalytic oxidation. However, the reaction process of CO and O 3 migration and transformation on the catalyst surface during discharge at different temperature is still unclear. In this study, β- and γ -MnO 2 are selected to unveil the roles of different oxygen species under in-plasma catalysis configuration at different temperature in CO oxidation. Operando TPR-DRIFTS-MS is used to reveal CO and O 3 oxidation pathways. The results show that O 3 can react with CO at room temperature, and O 3 is also converted to other reactive oxygen species on the catalyst surface. As the temperature increases, the oxygen species of the catalyst itself (Mn O and Mn-O-Mn) can react with CO to form oxygen vacancies (Mn-□-Mn and Mn=□). Mn-□-Mn are beneficial for O 2 decomposition and promotes the regeneration of Mn O and Mn-O-Mn. The carbonate covered on the surface of the catalyst is the rate-determining step of CO oxidation. It is hoped that Mn-based catalysts with more reactive oxygen species and oxygen defects will be prepared to facilitate low-temperature CO oxidation under plasma conditions. [Display omitted] ● Operando TPR-DRIFTS-MS reveals CO and O 3 oxidation pathways. ● O 3 can be converted to other reactive oxygen species on the catalyst surface. ● Carbonate is the rate-determining step in CO oxidation. ● Bridge-type oxygen vacancies (Mn-□-Mn) are beneficial for O 2 decomposition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] The unpassivated SiC but not AlN edge can cause magnetic moments of the nanoribbons. [•] The net up-spin charge mainly accumulates at C1, C2 and Si1 sites for ferromagnetic nanoribbons. [•] The increasing concentration of Si–C chains has little effect on the magnetic properties of the nanoribbon. [•] The number of the dangling bonds caused by Si and C atoms strongly affects the magnetic of the nanoribbon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Antimony-doped tin oxide (Sn0.9Sb0.1O2, ATO) and W-type barium ferrite (Ba0.9Gd0.1(Zn0.3Co0.7)2Fe16O27) were synthesized by coprecipitation method and polymer adsorbent combustion method, respectively. The microstructures were studied using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results showed that the pure ATO with spherical morphology and the pure W-type barium ferrite with hexagonal flake shape were prepared. The complex permittivity and complex permeability of ATO, ferrite and ATO/ferrite composites were analyzed by Agilent 8722ET. It was indicated that ATO had strong dielectric property and ferrite showed superior magnetic performance. An appropriate electromagnetic match was established when the composite microwave absorber contained 50wt% ATO and 50wt% ferrite. For the optimized microwave absorber, the maximum reflection loss (RL) was about −19.4dB at 14.8GHz. Moreover, the absorption bandwidth reached 3.6GHz when RL was −10dB in the measured frequency range of Ku-band. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The NiWO 4 @NiO nanorods are prepared using the MOF as a self-sacrificing template with annealing. • The 12 wt% NiWO 4 @NiO based sensor exhibits higher response value and fast recovery time to TEA and xylene. • The enhanced gas sensing properties can be attributed to forming the NiWO 4 @NiO p-p heterostructure. • This paper may be contribute to fabricate a single gas sensor with dual functionality to detect TEA and xylene. [Display omitted] Accurate detection of outdoor air quality requires a large number of gas sensors to be used in various fields. Thus, it is greatly significance to develop multifunctional sensors. In this work, the NiWO 4 decorated NiO p-p type heterostructure were successfully synthesized using the metal organic framework (MOF) as a self-sacrificing template with annealing process. The gas sensitive measurements reveal that the 12 wt% NiWO 4 decorated NiO based sensor exhibits the higher response value (65) than that of the pure NiO sensor (2.5) to 50 ppm triethylamine (TEA) at 240 °C. The selectivity of the NiWO 4 decorated NiO based sensors could be changed when the operating temperature over 260 °C, and the 12 wt% NiWO 4 decorated NiO based sensor shows the higher response value (28) than that of the pure NiO sensor (2) to 50 ppm xylene at 270 °C, indicated that as-prepared the NiWO 4 decorated NiO heterostructure can be as a promising material applied to fabricate the dual sensor to detect TEA and xylene with high sensitivity as well as distinguish by adjusting the temperature. The improved gas-sensing mechanisms of the NiWO 4 decorated NiO based on sensor are discussed in detail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optoelectronic properties and film-formation characteristics of CuCrO 2 are optimized through oxygen (O) and nitrogen (N) co-doping using the space-limited domain annealing method in ambient air. After O, N co-doping at 100 °C, the conductivity of CuCrO 2 is enhanced due to a decrease in trap-state density and an increase in hole concentration, thereby facilitating carrier transport. With a work function (W F) of 5.24 eV and an electron affinity (χ) of 2.29 eV, the CuCrO 2 films serves as both a hole transport layer (HTL) and an electron-blocking layer, playing a pivotal role in enhancing photogenerated holes extraction while suppressing nonradiative charge recombination at the heterojunction interface. Consequently, the responsivity and detectivity of the device with FTO/TiO 2 NRs/O, N co-doped CuCrO 2 /Au structure reach 188 mA W−1 and 3.14 × 1013 cm Hz1/2 W−1 in self-powered mode, respectively. Simultaneously, the rise/decay time is reduced to just 31.2/32.1 ns. Furthermore, after applying a bias of − 2 V, the photodetector demonstrates significantly improved performance with a responsivity of up to 5 × 105 mA/W (365 nm, 0.97 mW cm−2) and an apparent quantum efficiency of ∼30,000%. These results highlight the promising potential of utilizing O, N co-doped CuCrO 2 HTL for constructing high-performance optoelectronic devices. • An innovative self-powered ultraviolet photodetector composed of TiO 2 nanorod arrays/CuCrO 2 is developed using an all-solution process technique. • The optoelectronic properties and film-formation characteristics of CuCrO 2 are optimized through O and N co-doping using the space-limited domain annealing method in ambient air. • By adjusting the energy band alignment of the heterojunction, nonradiative charge recombination was mitigated, resulting in enhanced device performance. • Significant excellent performance, e.g., R = 188 mA W−1 @ 0 V, D λ * = 3.14 × 1013 cm Hz1/2 W−1, R = 5 × 105 mA W−1 @ −2 V (365 nm, 0.97 mW cm−2), AQE= 30,000% (−2 V, 365 nm), was achieved for self-powered ultraviolet photodetectors with TiO 2 NRs/O, N co-doped CuCrO 2 heterosturcture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Developing of a photocatalyst for the degradation and reduction of high concentrated pollutants from wastewater is of great importance. 2D/2D flower-like Ti 3 C 2 /CdIn 2 S 4 (MXCIS) was successfully prepared by integrating Ti 3 C 2 and CdIn 2 S 4 using a hydrothermal method. MXCIS-8 possess the best photocatalytic activity, and its removal efficiency of 50 mg/L of TC and Cr (VI) can reach 80.4% and 60.8%, respectively. This is caused by the Schottky heterostructure with the well 2D/2D interface, which can boost its photon capture performance and effectively hinder the recombination of photo-generated electrons and holes. Hydroxyl radicals, superoxide radicals, and h+ participate in the TC degradation, and both acidic and alkaline conditions are conducive to enhancing the degradation activity of MXCIS-8. However, only e− is the main contributor to the Cr(VI) reduction, and the photocatalytic performance of MXCIS-8 decreases under alkaline conditions. Importantly, MXCIS-8 exhibits satisfactory physicochemical stability, recyclability, and environmental friendliness. Overall, this work confirms that MXCIS has broad application potential in the removal of Cr (VI) and TC pollutants in wastewater treatment. • 2D/2D flower-like Ti 3 C 2 /CdIn 2 S 4 Schottky junction was fabricated by hydrothermal method. • Introduction of Ti 3 C 2 not only boosted photon trapping activity, but also effectively separated photo-generated H+ and e−. • MXCIS possesses the excellent photocatalytic activity on the removal of TC and Cr(VI). • Ti 3 C 2 /CdIn 2 S 4 exhibits excellent physical and chemical stability after many cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Porous carbon has been considered to be a promising light and high-efficient microwave absorber, but the nonmagnetic and relatively poor impendence matching property have limited its advanced applications. Herein, the nanoporous biomass carbon (NBC) was prepared by using the ZnCl 2 to activate the walnut shells. The NBC showed excellent microwave absorption (MA) performance, whose minimum reflection loss (RL) value reached −36.9 dB at 8.2 GHz. What's more, for the purpose of improving the impedance matching, Fe 3 O 4 nanoparticles were generated on the surface of NBC by in situ synthesis. The minimum RL value of as-prepared NBC@Fe 3 O 4 composites could reach −40.3 dB at 17.5 GHz with a thin thickness of 2.0 mm and the effective absorption bandwidth (RL ≤ −10 dB) was 6.6 GHz when the thickness was 2.5 mm. Compared with NBC, the promoted MA performance of NBC@Fe 3 O 4 composites was due to the improved impedance matching and synergistic effect between dielectric loss and magnetic loss. We believe that as-prepared NBC@Fe 3 O 4 composites have a great potential as an efficient microwave absorber. • A new walnut shell-derived nanoporous carbon has been developed for microwave absorption. • NBC@Fe 3 O 4 composites are prepared by the method of ZnCl 2 activation and in situ synthesis.. • NBC@Fe 3 O 4 composites deliver an excellent MA performance (-40.3 dB) and a wide effective absorption bandwidth (6.6 GHz). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]