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Recently, tetracyclines (TCs) have become the most used antibiotics in animal husbandry since they can kill most Gram-positive and -negative bacteria. However, it is still a tough problem to accurately detect residual TCs. Carbon dots (CDs) have attracted intensive attention owing to their excellent fluorescence performance, good biocompatibility and facile availability. Thus, many research studies have been conducted to fabricate high-performance CD fluorescent probes for the fast and accurate detection of TCs. Nevertheless, a comprehensive summary about the effective synthesis of CDs and their practical function in detecting TCs is still needed to further strengthen the wide application of CDs. We herein first give a detailed introduction of TCs and CDs. Then, based on the different synthetic technologies, the synthetic methods of CDs are divided into top-down and bottom-up strategies. In addition, from the different doped species, we classify CD fluorescent probes as undoped CDs, metal-doped CDs, nonmetal-doped CDs, co-doped CDs and CD nanocomposites. Furthermore, the remaining defects and prospects are highlighted to provide valuable guidance in preparing commendable CDs and detecting TCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reasonable design of Pd-based catalysts with specific composition and morphology is of great importance for promoting the commercial application. of direct alcohol fuel cells (DAFCs). Recently, two-dimension (2D) with high density of defects and massive low-coordinated surface atom has become research highlights in the field of catalysis. Herein, we report a wet chemical method for synthesizing PdCu nanosheets with abundant wrinkles. The ultrathin two-dimensional structure endows catalysts plentiful catalytic active sites and large specific surface area, improving atomic utilization efficiency. The formation of bimetallic PdCu alloy structure leads to the adjustment of Pd electronic structure, resulting in lattice compression effect. Benefitting from the structural and compositional characteristics, PdCu nanosheets (NSs) exhibits excellent electrocatalytic performance for ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (EGOR) and glycerol oxidation reaction (GOR) with the mass activity of 7031 mA mg−1/5117 mA mg−1, which is 4.4/3.9 times higher than that of commercial Pd/C catalysts. Furthermore, the remained mass activity of PdCu NSs is 3991/3851 mA mg−1 after the durability measurement for EGOR/GOR, which confirm PdCu NSs possesses superior stability. We believe that our synthetic strategy could provide robust reference for the development of high-performance eletrocatalysts. [Display omitted] • PdCu nanosheets were prepared by a facile solvothermal method. • The PdCu NSs provide ideal electrocatalytic active sites. • The PdCu NSs exhibited excellent electrocatalytic performance toward EGOR and GOR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are considered as promising electrocatalytic materials due to their tunable porosity, functional organic ligands, and large specific surface area for oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Recently, most reported electrocatalysts focus on the establishing heterogeneous structures by thermal treatments to improve OER performance. However, the thermal treatments are accompanied by the complex synthetic process and destruction of the MOFs structure. Therefore, improving the catalytic performance of pristine MOFs remains a challenge. Here, a series of trimetallic M a M b M c -MOFs (M represents metal element) were synthesized by one-pot method. Modulating the Co/Ni ratio not only adjusts the morphology of FeCoNi-MOFs, but also effectively optimizes the electronic structure. The composition-optimized FeCo 0.5 Ni 2.5 -MOF nano-bundles (FeCo 0.5 Ni 2.5 -NBs) only required a low overpotential of 273 mV to achieve the current density of 10 mA cm−2 in alkaline solution, with a Tafel slope of 51.1 mV dec−1, lower than other FeCoNi-MOFs and commercial RuO 2 catalyst. The two-electrode couple FeCo 0.5 Ni 2.5 -NBs || Pt/C achieved the cell voltage of 1.55 V, delivering current density of 10 mA cm−2 for overall water splitting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The precise design and development of high-performing oxygen evolution reaction (OER) for the production of industrial hydrogen gas through water electrolysis has been a widely studied topic. A profound understanding of the nature of electrocatalytic processes reveals that Ni-based catalysts are highly active toward OER that can stably operate at a high current density for a long period of time. Given the current gap between research and applications in industrial water electrolysis, we have completed a systematic review by constructively discussing the recent progress of Ni-based catalysts for electrocatalytic OER at a large current density, with special focus on the morphology and composition regulation of Ni-based electrocatalysts for achieving extraordinary OER performance. This review will facilitate future research toward rationally designing next-generation OER electrocatalysts that can meet industrial demands, thereby promoting new sustainable solutions for energy shortage and environment issues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fe@CoMo 2 S 4 /Ni 3 S 2 /NF catalysts with enhanced conductivity, enlarged electochemical active areas and modulated electronic structure for efficient water splitting. [Display omitted] Oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is a multi-electron transfer process, whose intrinsic sluggish dynamic restricts the whole process of overall water splitting (OWS). To address this issue, a porous transition metal sulfide (TMS) catalyst with rich heterojunctions was prepared by vulcanization and trace Fe doping of CoMo-based metal–organic framework (MOF). In this work, the nanoflower composed of ultrathin 2D nanosheets anchored on a nickel foam presents a layered interface that contributes to the exposure of active regions. The resulting electrode denoted as Fe@CoMo 2 S 4 /Ni 3 S 2 /NF required a low overpotential (η 10 = 167 mV @ 10 mA cm−2, η 50 = 260 mV @ 50 mA cm−2) in 1.0 M KOH for OER and a small cell voltage (E = 1.513 V @ 10 mA cm−2) to power OWS when coupled with commercial Pt/C. It also exhibited splendid morphological and chemical stability with virtually invariant polarization curve and flower-like appearance after 1000 CV cycles, as well as long-term durability over 100 h with a constant current density of 10 mA cm−2. This work revealed the multi-anionic regulation mechanism in the surface reconstruction of sulfide electrocatalysts, and verified that Co/Mo/Ni-based oxysulfide was the true active substance of OER, which inspired the understanding and design of multi-anionic regulated electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of PdAu nanospheres with wrinkled-surface are synthesized as efficient electrocatalysts for ethylene glycol and ethanol oxidation reactions. [Display omitted] • The universal and simple method of 3D Pd-based nanospheres with novel morphology are studied. • The introduction of Au effectively modifies the electronic structure of Pd. • The content of Au plays a key role in enhancing the electrocatalytic performances of PdAu NSs. • The superior electrocatalytic performances of PdAu NSs to EGOR and EOR were effectively confirmed compared to commercial Pd/C. Three dimensional (3D) noble-metal nanomaterials with special surface structures have been regarded as high-performance catalysts for alcohol oxidation on account of their superior thermal stability, electrical conductivity and large specific surface area. Although extensive efforts have been devoted to the preparation of 3D Pd-based catalysts with superior activity and stability, designing a simple, effective and eco-friendly method remains a challenge. Herein, we developed a facile one-step coreduction strategy to synthesize a series of 3D surface-wrinkled PdAu nanospheres (NSs) with tunable Pd/Au atomic ratios and found a universal method to prepare surface-wrinkled PdM (M = Au, Pt, Cu and Pb) NSs. Benefiting from the function of the surfactant cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC), the synthesized PdAu NSs with different composition possess abundant surface wrinkles, which is beneficial for exposing more electroactive centers. Attributed to the unique geometric morphology and optimized atomic ratio, the PdAu-2 NSs exhibited an optimal mass activity (MA) of 8103 mA mg−1 and 5113 mA mg−1 for the ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (EGOR) and ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR), which was 6.1 and 4.1 times that of commercial Pd/C, respectively. Moreover, the PdAu-2 NSs exhibited superb stability after long-term current–time (i-t) and cyclic voltammetry (CV) tests of the EGOR and EOR. This work not only provides new avenues to engineer PdAu NSs with enhanced electrocatalytic performance but also offers guidance for extending to more 3D PdM (M = other metals) NSs with novel morphology applied to fuel cell fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A one-pot strategy was developed for the successful formation of PdPtNi porous nanosheets. • The PdPtNi PNS provide ideal electrocatalytic active sites. • The PdPtNi PNS displayed improved electrocatalytic performance toward MOR and EOR. Bimetallic two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials are widely used in electrocatalysis owing to their unique physicochemical properties, while trimetallic 2D materials of porous structures with large surface area are rarely reported. In this paper, a one-pot hydrothermal synthesis of ternary ultra-thin PdPtNi nanosheets is developed. By adjusting the volume ratio of the mixed solvents, PdPtNi with porous nanosheets (PNSs) and ultrathin nanosheets (UNSs) was prepared. The growth mechanism of PNSs was investigated through a series of control experiments. Notably, thanks to the high atom utilization efficiency and fast electron transfer, the PdPtNi PNSs have remarkable activity of methanol oxidation reaction (MOR) and ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR). The mass activities of the well-tuned PdPtNi PNSs for MOR and EOR were 6.21 A mg−1 and 5.12 A mg−1, respectively, much higher than those of commercial Pt/C and Pd/C. In addition, after durability test, the PdPtNi PNSs exhibited desirable stability with the highest retained current density. Therefore, this work provides a significant guidance for designing and synthesizing a new 2D material with excellent catalytic performance toward direct fuel cells applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of Pd-based nanosheets were synthesized by precisely controlling the feed ratio of Pd and Ru. Notably, Ru-PdRu heterostructure nanosheets, comprised of Ru and PdRu heterogeneous interface are endowed with sufficient catalytic active sites and modulated electronic structure, showing excellent performance towards alcohol oxidation reaction. [Display omitted] Fabricating 2D nanomaterials with heterogeneous structure is a feasible way to improve catalytic performance owing to its large surface area and tunable electron structure. However, such a category has not been widely reported in the field of alcohol oxidation reaction (AOR). In this work, we reported a new type of heterostructure nanosheet with Ru nanoparticles decorated around the edge of PdRu nanosheets (Ru-PdRu HNSs). Particularly, strong electronic interaction and sufficient active sites attributed to the construction of heterogeneous interface, is the key to the superior electrocatalytic behavior of Ru-PdRu HNSs towards methanol oxidation reaction (MOR), ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (EGOR), and glycerol oxidation reaction (GOR). Remarkably, owing to the enhanced electron transfer brought by the introduction of the Ru-PdRu heterogeneous interface, these novel nanosheets are highly durable. Apart from being able to maintain the highest current density after 4000 s chronoamperometry test, Ru-PdRu HNSs can be reactivated with negligible activity loss in MOR and GOR test after four consecutive i-t experiments. Impressively, in the EGOR test, after reactivation, the current density is step-wisely increased, making it one of the best AOR electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A sequential template-engaged method was applied to design and construct unique Pt-NiCoFeP@NiCoFe-PBA hollow nanocages. Impressively, constructing heterointerfaces and incorporating ultralow Pt could induce strong synergistic effects and modify electronic configurations to optimize the binding energy of intermediates, thus achieving prominent electrocatalytic performance. [Display omitted] • Exploiting a partial phosphidation strategy to ingeniously construct heterostructures. • Ultralow Pt-loading to regulate electronic structure and increase active sites of catalysts. • Three-dimensional cage-like nanostructure could promote efficient charge transfer. • Pt-NiCoFeP@NiCoFe-PBA exhibits admirable electrocatalytic activity toward OER. Developing highly efficient electrocatalysts based on appropriate heterojunction engineering and electronic structure modification for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) has been extensively recognized as an effective approach to increase the efficiency of water splitting. Herein, ultralow Pt-loaded (1 %) NiCoFeP@NiCoFe-PBA hollow nanocages with well-defined heterointerfaces and modified electronic environment are successfully fabricated. As expected, the obtained Pt-NiCoFeP@NiCoFe-PBA exhibits outstanding performance with a low overpotential of 255 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and a small Tafel slope of 57.2 mV dec-1. More specifically, the highly open three-dimensional structure, exquisite interior voids and abundant surface defects endow Pt-NiCoFeP@NiCoFe-PBA nanocages with more electrochemical active sites. Meanwhile, experimental results and mechanism studies also reveal that the construction of heterogeneous interfaces as well as incorporation of noble metals could readily induce strong synergistic effects and significantly tailor electronic configurations to optimize the binding energy of the intermediates, thereby achieving prominent OER performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We herein successfully prepared the surface-bulged trimetallic PdAgCu nanospheres which showed superb photoelectronic response performance to EGOR. [Display omitted] • The surface-bulged trimetallic PdAgCu NSs were prepared via a facial co-reduction strategy. • The incorporation of Cu into PdAg NSs can modify the optical absorption property. • The photoelectrocatalytic performances of PdAgCu NSs were further enhanced with the assistance of visible light. • The introduction of Cu can strengthen the whole SPR effect of PdAgCu NSs. The notable surface plasmon resonance (SPR) effect of some metals has been applied to improve the efficiency of alcohol oxidation reactions, whereas the comprehensive investigation of Cu-assisted photoelectrocatalysis remains challenging. We herein successfully prepared trimetallic PdAgCu nanospheres (NSs) with abundant surface bulges for the advanced ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (EGOR) and compared them with bimetallic PdAg NSs to investigate the performance enhancement mechanism. Impressively, the as-optimized PdAgCu NSs exhibited superb mass activity and electrochemical stability. Moreover, under visible light illumination, the mass activity of PdAgCu NSs increased to 1.62 times compared to that in the dark, and in contrast, the mass activity of PdAg NSs only increased to 1.48 times that in the dark. A mechanistic study indicated that the incorporation of Cu not only strengthens the whole SPR effect of PdAgCu NSs but also further modifies the electronic structure of Pd. This work highlighted that the incorporation of Cu into PdAg NSs further enhanced the photoelectrocatalytic performance and increased noble metal atom utilization, which may provide guidance to fabricate novel and promising nanocatalysts in the field of photoelectrocatalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Porous nanospheres (PNSs) have great development prospects in the electrocatalysis field because of their structural characteristics, such as a large specific surface area. However, it is still a challenge to find a simple and energy-saving method for the controllable synthesis of PNS nanocatalysts. In this paper, a one-pot CTAC-assisted strategy was developed for the successful formation of PdPtAg PNSs with high porosity at room temperature. Benefitting from the unique structures, optimized composition, acceleration of charge transfer and enhanced resistance to CO poisoning, the PdPtAg PNSs displayed considerably improved electrocatalytic performance with high mass activity and stability toward the ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (EGOR) and glycerol oxidation reaction (GOR). The EGOR and GOR mass activities of PdPtAg were 5.00 A mg metal -1 and 3.06 A mg metal -1, which are 6.22 and 1.91 times that of commercial Pd/C, respectively. This work is expected to offer a new path for improving catalytic performance by simple design and adjustment of morphology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrasound was used for the self-assembly of precursors and high-performance kelp-like carbon nitride nanosheets were subsequently synthesized. [Display omitted] • Precursors were prepared by a fast and green ultrasonic self-assembly strategy. • Kelp-like carbon nitride nanosheets (CNS) were synthesized. • The controllable synthesis process of kelp-like CNS was elucidated. • The CNS has a unique morphology with high specific surface area and O-doping. The application of graphite carbon nitride photocatalysts is hampered by their low specific surface areas, few active sites, and low photogenerated electron-hole transfer rates. Here, we report a green and controllable strategy for synthesizing kelp-like carbon nitride nanosheets through self-assembled materials prepared from melamine and trithiocyanuric acid using sonochemistry. The prepared carbon nitride nanosheets showed superior and long-lasting photocatalytic activity in hydrogen evolution and the degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride. The significantly enhanced photocatalytic performance of carbon nitride nanosheets is attributed to the curled porous nanosheet structure and the appropriate amount of O-doping. This work provides a new design strategy for preparing shape-controlled carbon nitride catalysts via a green, fast, sonochemically mediated self-assembly approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The RuM (M=Ni, Co) porous nanorods are prepared as efficient electrocatalysts for the HER. [Display omitted] • The RuM (M = Ni, Co) HNRs were synthesized via wet-chemical method and cation-etching approach. • The hollow nanorod structures effectively enriched the active sites with easy accessibility. • Ni/Co-doping optimized the electronic structure of Ru. • The RuM (M = Ni, Co) HNRs exhibited excellent HER catalytic performance and high stability. The development of efficient and stable nanomaterial electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is of great significance for renewable energy conversion via water electrolysis. Herein, we have developed a novel class of bimetallic RuM (M = Ni, Co) hollow nanorods (HNRs) through a facile Fe3+ etching strategy, as electrocatalysts for enhancing the HER. Morphological physical characterization and electrochemical tests demonstrated that RuM (M = Ni, Co) HNRs with hollow structures can effectively enhance electrocatalytic activity due to their high specific surface areas. Impressively, the RuNi HNRs exhibited superior HER performance with an overpotential of merely 25.6 mV in 1 M KOH solution at 10 mA cm−2, which is significantly lower than that of commercial Pt/C (44.7 mV). Moreover, the as prepared RuNi HNRs showed excellent stability and could continuously work at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 for 40 h with a negligible increase in potential. The Ru-based HNRs also showed high HER activity in an acidic solution. This study paves a new way for the universal fabrication of bimetallic hollow structured nanomaterials as efficient electrocatalysts for boosting the HER. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The noble metal anodic catalysts with three-dimension (3D) chain-like network structure have been researched thoroughly due to their unique morphological characteristics. Herein, a novel scheme has been designed rationally to synthesize 3D PdPb nanochain networks (PdPb NCNs). Numerous nanochains were interlaced and stacked to form the nanonetworks, which were contributed to improving electrocatalytic performance. Abundant steps and kinks existed on the nanochain networks, which provided plentiful active sites to improve the electrocatalytic activity. In the subsequent electrochemical tests, the mass activity of Pd 65 Pb 35 NCNs was 4.47 A mg pd −1, higher than other catalysts. Moreover, in the chronoamperometry and consecutive CV measurements, Pd 65 Pb 35 NCNs exhibited the best stability than other prepared samples. This work explored the rational synthesis of PdPb nanochain networks, and confirmed the excellent electrocatalytic performance in EGOR. [Display omitted] • The intertwined nanochain network structure was beneficial to optimize the electron transport process. • The catalyst components were optimized by controlling the amount of Pb(HCOO) 2. • Pd 65 Pb 35 NCNs displayed the excellent electrocatalytic activity and stability in EGOR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • An ultrasensitive photoelectrochemical (PEC) was fabricated based on pillar[5]arenes functionalized Au and BiOBr nanoflowers (Au@WP5/BiOBr). • The immunosensor is specifically in bovine hemoglobin (BHb) sensing. • The COOH groups in BHb molecules formed a hydrogen bond with the NH 2 groups of DA, achieving an indirect detection of BHb. • The LSPR effect of Au NPs, the host–guest interaction between WP5 and DA, the photo generated electron-holes of BiOBr nanoflowers are responsible for the enhanced PEC performance. • The proposed sensor displays ultralow detection limit. In this work, the ultrasensitive photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensor for the detection of bovine hemoglobin (BHb) was developed based on water-soluble pillar[5]arenes (WP5) functionalized gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) and bismuth oxybromide (BiOBr) nanoflowers (Au@WP5/BiOBr). The photoelectrical signal of dopamine (DA) was decreased after adding the different concentrations of BHb due to the formation of hydrogen bond between the COOH groups of BHb molecules and the NH 2 group of DA, which could achieve the indirect detection of BHb. Benefiting from the photo-generated electron-holes of BiOBr nanoflowers, the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect of Au NPs, the host–guest interaction of WP5 between and DA, the PEC sensor showed a specifically recognize toward BHb with a wide detection range of 1.0 × 10−11–1.0 × 10−1 mg/mL and a detection limit of 4.2 × 10−12 mg/mL (S/N = 3). Additionally, the proposed PEC sensor also displayed good stability, remarkable selectivity and provided a promising strategy of design pillar[5]arenes functionalized photoelectric activity nanomaterials for PEC sensing application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel CoTe-C composite has been designed and prepared as a support of Pd catalyst for the electrooxidation of ethylene glycol. [Display omitted] • The CoTe-C composite has been fabricated as a support of Pd catalyst for the ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (EGOR) for the first time. • The effect of CoTe-C carrier on electrocatalytic performance for EGOR has been studied. • The Pd/CoTe-C catalyst exhibits high catalytic performance and stability for EGOR in alkaline medium. The development of highly active and earth-rich electrocatalysts remains a formidable challenge for the commercialization of fuel cells. Herein, a composite carrier composed of cobaltous telluride (CoTe) and carbon (C) has been designed for the first time to enhance the electrocatalytic performance of palladium (Pd) nanoparticles (NPs) for the electro-oxidation of ethylene glycol (EG). Remarkably, the mass activity for the as-prepared Pd/CoTe-C catalyst during the ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (EGOR) is found to reach up to 3917.3 mA mg−1, which is 2.2 times higher than that of Pd/Co-C (1785.0 mA mg−1) and 4.1 times greater than that of commercial Pd/C catalyst (962.4 mA mg−1), exceeding that obtained for most Pd-based electrocatalysts reported thus far. In particular, the Pd/CoTe-C catalyst shows better electrochemical stability toward the EGOR than the Pd/Co-C and commercial Pd/C catalysts. Thus, the Pd/CoTe-C electrocatalyst is expected to exhibit broad application prospects in the field of fuel cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We render maneuverable synthesis of a series of 2D Pd nanoplates with progressively enriched nanopores. This study proposes a nanopore tunable synthetic strategy based on multilayer 2D platform, which originates from the integrated manipulation of the reaction kinetics and the in situ generated joint etchants. [Display omitted] • The synthesis of Pd NPs depends on synergetic adsorption of CO and acetylacetone. • Nanopore engineering of mesh Pd NPs derived from in situ generated etchants. • DFT calculations clarify Pd sites near nanopore alleviate Pd-O overbinding issue. Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials with nanopore display an enhancement effect on electrocatalysis behavior, whereas the nanopore engineering for 2D nanocatalysts remains an insurmountable challenge. We advance the synthesis of multilayer Pd nanoplates (Pd NPs) and two types of meshy nanoplates (Pd LMNPs/MNPs) with escalating nanopores from none and sparse to porous. Specially, an in situ nanopore enrichment on these Pd nanoplates hinges on a joint etching strategy with integrated manipulation of reaction kinetics. The optimized Pd MNPs exhibit exceptional oxygen reduction reaction performance, owing to the enhanced intermediates protonation on Pd site neighboring nanopore, which has been elucidated by density functional theory calculations. In addition, Pd MNPs also deliver excellent performances in fuel cell anodic reactions, including ethanol oxidation reaction and formic acid oxidation reaction. This study highlights a new strategy for in situ nanopores engineering , providing a prospect for designing superior nanocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A facile one-step method is adopted to design multi-low-dimensional PdPt nanomaterials by using different Pd precursors. 0D-2D PdPt NCs delivered better activity and stability than 2D PdPt NAs towards EOR/EGOR. The promotion mechanism is investigated on PdPt nanocrystals with different low-dimension. [Display omitted] • A facile one-step method is adopted to design low-dimension nanomaterials. • A novel kind of 0D-2D and 2D PdPt nanocrystals are precise reconstruction by altering the types of precursors. • 0D-2D PdPt NCs delivered better activity and stability than 2D PdPt NAs towards EOR/EGOR. • The promotion mechanism is investigated on PdPt nanocrystals with different low-dimension. Low-dimensional noble-metal materials (LDNMs) with different structural advantages have been considered as the high-performance catalysts for C 2 alcohol electrooxidation. However, it is still a great challenging to precisely construct nanomaterials with low-dimensional composite structure thus to take advantages of various dimension, especial without the surfactant participation. Most studies focus on the modulation of the single dimensional nanocatalysts, the correlation between electrocatalytic performances and low-dimension composite have been rarely reported. Herein, we engineered a simple one-step approach to design multi-low-dimensional PdPt nanomaterials by using different Pd precursors. The low-dimensional PdPt nanocrystals (NCs) composed of zero dimension (0D) dendrite-like nanoparticles and two dimension (2D) nanosheets were obtained by using Pd(OAc) 2 , and meanwhile the 2D PdPt nanosheet assemblies (NAs) were synthesized by the introduction of NaPdCl 4. Specifically, benefitting from the unique low-dimension structures with fast electron/mass transfer, and optimized electronic and synergistic effect, the multi-low-dimensional 0D-2D PdPt NCs showed the highest ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR)/ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (EGOR) mass activities, which were much higher than 2D PdPt NAs. The 0D-2D PdPt NCs also exhibited the highest structural stability. Generally, this work could inspire more advanced designs for surfactant-free synthesis and promote the fundamental engineering on nanocatalysts with low-dimension composite structure for electrocatalytic fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nanofirework-like PtRu alloy catalyst has been successfully synthesized and used as an efficient anodic catalyst for glycerol oxidation reaction (GOR) in alkaline medium. [Display omitted] • A class of firework-like bimetallic PtRu alloy nanocatalysts has been successfully fabricated. • The addition of Ru can effectively tune the electronic structure of Pt and greatly improve the performance of the catalyst. • The electrocatalytic properties of bimetallic PtRu catalysts strongly rely on their chemical composition. Electro-oxidation of glycerol is a key anodic reaction in direct alcohol fuel cell (DAFCs). Exploring the cost-effective nanocatalysts for glycerol oxidation reaction (GOR) is very important for the development of DAFC, but it is still challenging. In this paper, nanofirework-like PtRu alloy catalyst was successfully synthesized and used for GOR in alkaline medium. Thanks to the unique nanofirework-like structure and synergetic effects, the activity and stability of the as-prepared PtRu alloy nanofireworks (NFs) toward GOR were significantly improved relative to Pt NFs. In particular, the peak current density of GOR catalyzed by the optimized Pt 1 Ru 3 NFs catalyst reached 2412.0 mA mg−1, surpassing that of commercial Pt/C catalyst. This work has important guidance for the design of advanced anode electrocatalysts for fuel cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient synthesis of a sequence of low-dimensional PdAg networked nanochains assembled from nanoparticles with accelerated reaction kineties, boosted anti-CO poisoning and enhanced electrocatalytic performance toward EGOR and EOR. [Display omitted] • The novel synthesis of low-dimensional PdAg networked nanochains with 0D-1D composite structure are studied. • Ag assisted PdAg networked nanochains with abundant surface defects evidenced the modified electron structure of Pd. • The content of Ag plays a key role in enhancing the electrocatalytic performances of PdAg-2 NNCs. • The superior electrocatalytic performances of low-dimensional PdAg networked nanochains to EGOR and EOR were effectively confirmed compared to commercial Pd/C. Advanced 1D materials have become the focus due to the enhanced structure durability than 0D nanoparticles (NPs). Unfortunately, the unique electrocatalysts with 0D-1D composite structure are rarely reported. Herein, the low-dimensional PdAg networked nanochains (NNCs) with diverse element composition assembled from a sequence of NPs were designed as efficient 0D-1D electrocatalysts toward the ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (EGOR) and ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR). The low-dimensional PdAg NNCs not only possess stronger structure stability than 0D NPs, but also endow catalysts with more abundant active sites than traditional 1D nanochains. Attributed to the synergistic electronic effect, abundant active sites and surface defects, the composition-optimized PdAg-2 NNCs behaved the optimal electrocatalytic activities, greatly surpassing most of reported studies. Benefiting from 0D-1D composite structure and stable networked nanochain feature, the PdAg-2 NNCs still remained higher current density after the 3600 s chronoamperometry (CA) experiment and without obvious decline through three consecutive CA tests compared to commercial Pd/C, revealing the remarkable stability. Meanwhile, the PdAg-2 NNCs exhibited the prominent anti-CO poisoning ability and the lowest onset oxidation potential, manifesting the enhanced reaction kinetics. This work fabricated a novel electrocatalyst with low-dimension composite structure, producing new guidelines for the synthesis of high-efficiency electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ru-modified NiFe MOF nanosheet array was elaborately designed via self-driven galvanic replacement reaction (GRR), which exhibits dramatically enhanced HER, OER and UOR catalytic property as a multifunctional electrocatalyst. [Display omitted] • Ru-modified NiFe MOF nanosheet array was designed via self-driven galvanic replacement reaction. • Enhanced catalytic potency benefitted from spontaneous electronic reconstruction in the interface. • The Ru-NiFe- x /NF are endowed with richer high-valence Ni active species. • The Ru-NiFe- x /NF can operate as multifunctional electrocatalyst with high current density. Urea electro-oxidation reaction (UOR) has been a promising strategy to replace oxygen evolution reaction (OER) by urea-mediated water splitting for hydrogen production. Naturally, rational design of high-efficiency and multifunctional electrocatalyst towards UOR and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is of vital significance, but still a grand challenge. Herein, an innovative 3D Ru-modified NiFe metal-organic framework (MOF) nanoflake array on Ni foam (Ru-NiFe- x /NF) was elaborately designed via spontaneous galvanic replacement reaction (GRR). Notably, the adsorption capability of intermediate species (H*) of catalyst is significantly optimized by Ru modification. Meanwhile, rich high-valence Ni active species can be acquired by self-driven electronic reconstruction in the interface, then dramatically accelerating the electrolysis of water and urea. Remarkably, the optimized Ru-NiFe-③/NF (1.6 at% of Ru) only requires the overpotential of 90 and 310 mV to attain 100 mA cm−2 toward HER and OER in alkaline electrolyte, respectively. Impressively, an ultralow voltage of 1.47 V is required for Ru-NiFe-③/NF to deliver a current density of 100 mA cm−2 in urea-assisted electrolysis cell with superior stability, which is 190 mV lower than that of Pt/C-NF||RuO 2 /NF couple. This work is desired to explore a facile way to exploit environmentally-friendly energy by coupling hydrogen evolution with urea-rich sewage disposal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we developed a one-pot, surfactant-free approach to obtain a PdPtAu@Pd core@shell catalyst for the photocatalytic methanol oxidation reaction. By virtue of its dimensions, conjunction architecture and robust core@shell construction, 0D@2D PdPtAu@Pd exhibited a superior catalytic performance, with a mass activity 2.3- and 6.7-times higher than that of Pt/C and Pd/C catalysts, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A series of CoNi-based CoNiM (M= Fe, Cd, Ce, Cu, Mn, Zn) LTHs nanocatalysts with ultrathin nanosheet configuration are prepared as efficient electrocatalysts for OER. [Display omitted] • We developed a simple MOF-mediated method for synthetizing ultrathin 2D CoNiFe LTHs. • The modified electronic structure leads to high OER activity of the CoNiFe LTHs. • This work will boost the synthesis of ternary layer hydroxide catalysts. Developing low-budget, stable, and high-performance electrocatalyst toward oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is of pivotal significance in the fields of energy conversion and storage. Herein, a universal metal organic framework (MOF)-mediated method for the synthesis of two-dimensional (2D) layered triple hydroxides (LTHs) nanosheets with ultrathin nature has been developed. It is interesting to disclose that the CoNi-based LTHs possess better electrochemical catalytic performance, giving superior performance to commercial RuO 2 catalysts. Remarkably, benefitting from the ultrathin nanosheet configuration, optimized electronic structure, and strong synergistic effect, the optimized CoNiFe LTHs nanosheets show excellent OER performance with an ultralow overpotential of 262 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 and a small Tafel slope of 88.1 mV dec-1. This work provides a promising avenue to develop low-cost and high-performance layered ternary hydroxide electrocatalysts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Recently, intensive attention has been attracted to the two-dimensional metal nanosheets, owing to their excellent electrocatalytic performance for direct alcohol fuel cells (DAFCs). Herein, PdRu nanosheets have been synthesized successfully by a facile one-pot method. The rugged nanosheet structure provided plentiful surface active sites to enhance the electrocatalytic activity. Moreover, benefiting from the synergistic effect and improved electronic structure, PdRu NSs exhibited splendid electrocatalytic performance in ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (EGOR) and glycerol oxidation reaction (GOR). Specifically, the mass activity of PdRu NSs was 1.72 and 3.69 times over those of Pd NSs and Pd/C catalysts in EGOR. Moreover, PdRu NSs displayed the largest mass activity in GOR, 1.48 and 2.47 times as large as Pd NSs and Pd/C catalysts. The results of stability tests demonstrated that the durability of PdRu NSs was the highest among the obtained catalysts. This work plays a directive role on the in-depth engineering on Pd-based catalysts with nanosheet architectures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Optimizing the electronic and synergistic effect of hybrid electrocatalysts based on Pt and Pt‐based nanocatalysts is of tremendous importance towards a superior hydrogen evolution performance under both acidic and alkaline conditions. However, developing an ideal Pt‐based hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalyst with moderated electronic structure as well as strong synergistic effect is still a challenge. Herein, we fabricated boron (B)‐doped PtNi nanobundles by a two‐step method using NaBH4 as the boron source to obtain PtNi/Ni4B3 heterostructures with well‐defined nanointerfaces between PtNi and Ni4B3, achieving an enhanced catalytic HER performance. Especially, the PtNi/Ni4B3 nanobundles (PtNi/Ni4B3 NBs) can deliver a current density of 10 mA cm−2 at the overpotential of 14.6 and 26.5 mV under alkaline and acidic media, respectively, as well as outstanding electrochemical stability over 40 h at the current density of 10 mA cm−2. Remarkably, this approach is also universal for the syntheses of PtCo/Co3B and PtFe/Fe49B with outstanding electrocatalytic HER performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is highly desirable to develop efficient catalysts under high-current-density operation and long-term stability for high performance water splitting. However, most reported modified MOFs catalysts exhibited favorable catalytic activity under a low current density on 10 mA cm−2 and limited stability. In response, reasonable design and applications modified MOFs catalyst with high current density and prolonged stability is essential yet challenging. In this review, we firstly summed the classifications of modified MOFs with pristine MOFs, MOFs composites and MOFs derivatives. Then, we discussed the strategies on the high-current-density activity improvement referring to the electronic structure tuning, defect construction and vacancy formation, and methods on the long-term stability enhancement including active sites protection, catalytic support reinforcement and efficient surface reconstruction. Finally, we proposed the challenges and prospects of modified MOFs to achieve improvement for further industrial water splitting, which could bring design principles in the field of modified MOFs materials. [Display omitted] • Pristine MOFs, MOFs composites and MOFs derivatives are summarized. • The strategies of modified MOFs for high current density operation and long-term stability are reviewed. • Perspectives and challenges of modified MOFs for water splitting are outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A series of open-structured amorphous/crystalline CoNiRuO x heterointerface nanocages are prepared by a simple method. • The suitable crystallinity and defects levels could be simultaneously precise regulated. • The optimized CoNiRuO x -2 PNCs exhibited the superior OER activity with an overpotential of 245 mV at 10 mA cm−2. Amorphous/crystalline (a/c) metal-oxide nanocages with defects are promising materials towards the realization of efficient water electrocatalysis. In this work, we not only constructed a Ru doping porous nanocages (PNCs) structure, but also studied the relationship between both crystallinity of a/c degrees and oxygen vacancy (O vac) levels in a/c CoNiRuO x PNCs catalysts and their catalytic properties. Owing to the rich mass transfer channels, optimized crystallinity and O vac levels, and efficient catalytic model of "Ni-O-Co-O-Ru-O-Ni" for well-distributed electron density, the optimized CoNiRuO x -2 PNCs exhibited the alkaline oxygen evolution reaction (OER) properties with an overpotential of 245 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and remarkable stability for 60 h, surpassing other series of a/c CoNiRuO x and benchmark RuO 2 catalysts. In addition, the electrode couple a/c CoNiRuO x -2//Pt/C only need an ultralow voltage of 1.54 V to drive overall water splitting. This work proposed the introduction and quantitative control on both a/c heterostructure degree and O vac level, offering guidelines for OER catalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Amorphization/crystallization methods of TM-based catalysts are summarized. • Various kinds of a/c TM-based catalysts are reviewed. • Perspectives and challenges of a/c TM-based catalysts for water splitting are outlined. The rational phase engineering on transition-metal-based (TM-based) catalysts is an efficient strategy to improve the catalytic performance for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in water splitting. Combining high conductivity from crystalline phase with orderly atomic arrangement and high activity from amorphous phase with abundant unsaturated sites, more amorphous/crystalline (a/c) heterostructure TM-based catalysts with optimized electronic structures have been confirmed to exhibit superior OER and HER properties with well-balanced activity and stability. However, the rational design of the a/c TM-based catalysts for water splitting is often ignored. In this review, we firstly summarized the amorphization/crystallization strategies for constructing a/c TM-based catalysts including pyrolysis method, composition-tuned approach, electrochemical method, chemical etching and other strategies. Then, we introduced various kinds of a/c TM-based catalysts such as a/c TM-based alloys, oxides and hydroxides, nitrides/phosphides/sulfides, and composites. In addition, the roles of a/c interfaces on the performance promotion for OER and HER have been analyzed, which involved the active sites increasement with optimized d-band center, catalytic kinetics acceleration with fast electron transfer, and stability enhancement with electron density redistribution. Finally, we proposed the existing challenges and further perspectives referring to the precise synthesis, in-depth activity investigation and performance promotion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Classifications of 3D Pd-based nanocubes for fuel cell electrocatalysis are summarized. • The rich active sites, rational composition regulation, key facet control and efficient strain effect are reviewed. • Perspectives and challenges of 3D Pd-based nanocubes are outlined for further development. Recently, the noble metal-based, especially Pd-based, nanocatalysts have attracted great attention owing to their unique structural merits and high intrinsic activity resulting in enhancing the electrocatalytical efficiency for direct alcohol fuel cells (DAFC). Specially, among various Pd-based nanocatalysts, the 3D Pd-based nanocubes, endowed with large specific surface area, high structural stability, and favorable electric transmission capability have shown superb electrocatalytic performance for DAFC. So far, numerous researches, concerning the efficient synthesis, physicochemical characterization and electrocatalytic performance study about Pd-based nanocubes, have been widely reported. However, there is still lack of a comprehensive summary with regard to the universal synthesis strategies of Pd-based nanocubes and systematic analysis of the electrocatalytic ability enhancement. In this review, we firstly made an in-depth introduction of DAFC, mainly involving the two crucial half-reactions, namely, anodic alcohol oxidation reaction (AOR) and cathodic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Then, from the perspective of different physical morphologies of Pd-based nanocubes, the current synthesis pathways were generalized as the co-reduction approach, seed-mediated method, galvanic replacement and chemical etching, and meanwhile, the Pd-based nanocubes could also be classified as homogeneous, mesoporous, core–shell, hollow and concave nanocubes. In addition, some advanced strategies for electrocatalytic performance enhancement were further highlighted, which mainly included rich active sites, rational composition regulation, key facet control and efficient strain effect. Furthermore, the opportunities and challenges were also overviewed to provide guidance for the efficient synthesis and application of 3D Pd-based nanocubes in electrocatalytic field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, an ultrasensitive and specific photoelectrochemical (PEC) immunosensor was designed for carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) detection. Benefitting from the ascorbic acid (AA) used as an electron donor that led to a notable change in the photocurrent density, pillar[5]arene functionalized Au and Polyaniline-Bismuth oxybromide heterojunction (Au@WP5/PANI-BiOBr) displayed superior PEC performance for CEA sensing. In detail, the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of the Au NPs and host-guest complexation between WP5 and AA increased the photocurrent signal, the photogenerated holes on BiOBr accelerated the oxidation of AA, and the fast electron transfer of the hollow PANI tubes benefited an increase in the photocurrent. The antibody effectively bound with CEA when bovine serum albumin blocked the residual sites on the Au@WP5/PANI-BiOBr electrode, generating a clear decrease in photocurrent density in AA solution. Under the optimum condition, the developed PEC immunosensor exhibited a sensitive response to CEA which was linear in the range of 0.01 ng mL-1 to 50 ng mL-1 with a detection limit of 3 pg mL-1. The proposed PEC immunosensor displayed high specificity, good stability, and excellent reproducibility, paving a new way to construct sensitive and specific photoactive heterojunction materials for biomarker immunosensing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • The MOF-derived CoNiFeP nanospindles catalysts are prepared by a facile ion-exchange and phosphorization method. • The CoNiFeP with unique yolk-shell structure exhibit rich channels for mass transportation. • The construction of robust phosphide heterojunction interface in CoNiFeP boost the electron transfer. • The promotion mechanism of OER property is analyzed on CoNiFeP with well-tuned composition. The heterogeneous interface engineering of nanocatalysts has been proved as an efficient strategy to promote the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalytic performance. Different from the conventional hollow structures, the yolk-shell construction could defend the distortion and dissolution during OER for stability improvement. However, it is still a great challenging to simultaneously construct heterogeneous interface and yolk-shell structure based on electrocatalysts with well-tuned composition and structure. Herein, we developed a facile synthetic method to prepare the yolk-shell trimetallic phosphide catalysts by starting with MIL-88A nanospindles templates. Benefitting from heterogeneous interface with fast electron transfer, yolk-shell architecture with rich channels for mass transportation, and active metal doping with electron structure modulation, the obtained CoNiFeP yolk-shell nanospindles (YSNSs) catalysts displayed superior OER catalytic properties with the overpotential of only 261 mV to deliver a current density of 10 mA cm−2 in alkaline media. Furthermore, the yolk-shell architecture endowed CoNiFeP with remarkable OER stability for 60 h. By coupling CoNiFeP with Pt/C electrodes to drive overall water splitting, an ultralow cell voltage of 1.56 V is required. The experimental and mechanistic studies indicated the optimized binding energy of *OOH ad and *OH ad intermediates by constructing robust phosphide interface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Efficient photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants in water heavily depends on the elaborate design of the micro/chemical structure of the catalyst. For g-C 3 N 4 , the synergistic incorporation of heterojunction structures is an effective strategy toward enhanced charge separation and broadened response range of light irradiation, rendering improved performances in photocatalysis. Herein, we propose a WO 3 /BiOCl heterojunction (WB) supported on graphite phase g-C 3 N 4 (CN) nanosheets that simultaneously enables local surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect (by WO 3) and promotes charge separation at the catalyst interface (by BiOCl). The WO 3 /BiOCl/g-C 3 N 4 nanocomposites (WB-CN) show high efficiency in the photo-degradation of two model antibiotics, levofloxacin (OFLX) and tetracycline hydrochloride (TC), which are 2.57 and 2.05 times higher than that of unmodified CN, respectively. The Free radical capture experiments confirmed that the significant reactive species are the photo-generated holes and superoxide radicals. Photoluminescence and photoelectrochemical characterizations suggest an LSPR-coupled charge separation mechanism behind the enhanced photocatalytic activity of WB-CN, creating a local Z-scheme heterojunction structure in the composites that improves the separation efficiency of photo-generated carriers. Together, our results highlight the great potential of composite design in developing CN-based photocatalysts for environmental technology. g-C 3 N 4 -supported WO 3 /BiOCl heterojunctions were successfully prepared to achieve highly efficient degradation of antibiotics near infrared [Display omitted] • WB-CN nanocomposites present broader response region compared to CN under simulated sunlight irradiation. • WB-CN nanocomposites show superior photocatalytic activity for degrading antibiotics and mineralization for TC. • WO 3 with LSPR effect and BiOCl as electron-transfer mediators synergistically promote the charge transfer. • Possible degradation pathway of OFLX and TC oxidation was elucidated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We herein successfully prepared a sequence of 3D ultrathin lotus-like PdCu nanosheets which showed high-efficiency photoelectronic response performance to EGOR. [Display omitted] • The SPR of plasmon Cu-assisted photoelectrocatalysis is studied. • The introduction of Cu effectively modifies the electronic structure of Pd. • The content of Cu plays a key role in enhancing the electrocatalytic performances of PdCu NSs. • The photoelectric response ability of PdCu NSs to EGOR was further advanced with the assistance of visible light. Coupling the unique surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of plasma metals with electrocatalysis is of huge challenge but great significance to advance alcohol oxidation. Herein, we demonstrate the commendable SPR effect of Cu harvesting solar energy to boost the electrocatalytic efficiency of ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (EGOR) over 3D ultrathin lotus-like PdCu nanosheets (NSs). Notably, the well-defined PdCu-2 NSs exhibit the highest mass activity (7547 mA mg−1) to EGOR under visible light illumination, which is 1.3 times enhanced versus in dark, as well as outclassing the Pd-homemade NSs and commercial Pd/C catalyst. Meanwhile, the PdCu-2 NSs also show excellent stability in long-term durable tests. Investigations of the correlative mechanism reveal that the enhanced EGOR is mainly attributed to the SPR of Cu promoting the electron transfer from Cu to Pd, modifying the electronic structure of Pd, and facilitating the charge transport in electrochemical reactions, thus strengthening the electrocatalytic ability of Pd. This work sheds light on the SPR of plasma Cu-assisted photoelectrocatalysis to EGOR and provides new avenues to develop novel and high-efficiency photoelectrocatalysts for liquid fuel cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pillar [5]arene, a new water-soluble carboxylatopillar [5]arene ammonium salts (WP5), has been employed as the host for complexation of guest molecules. Herein, a visible light driven WP5 functionalized gold nanoparticles (Au@WP5) was fabricated for ultrasensitive photelectrochemical (PEC) detection of caffeic acid (CA). The ultraviolet–visible spectrum characteristics, PEC response results of samples in caffeic acid solution confirm the localized surface plasmon resonance effect of Au NPs and the host-guest interaction between WP5 and CA are responsible for the enhanced PEC sensing performance. Under optimal conditions, the sensitive PEC sensor constructed with Au@WP5 exhibited the concentration linear range from 0.025 μM to 370 μM and a detection limit of 0.01 μM (S/N = 3). Importantly, the good anti-interference ability, stability and reproducibility of the proposed PEC sensor providing the promising detection application of pillar [5]arene functionalized photoactive materials in food and drinks. [Display omitted] • Pillararene functionalized Au nanoparticles (Au@WP5) were prepared via simply ultrasonic self-assembly method. • An enhanced photo-electrochemical sensor was fabricated based on Au@WP5. • Au@WP5 photo-electrochemical sensor is ultrasensitive in caffeic acid detection. • The LSPR effect of Au NPs and the host-guest interaction between WP5 and CA are responsible for the enhanced PEC sensing. • The proposed sensor displays low detection limit and specific detection ability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Classifications of 1D NMBCs for fuel cell electrocatalysis are summarized. • The composition, interface, facet, strain, and defect engineering of NMBCs are reviewed. • Perspectives and challenges of NMBCs are outlined for further development. The noble-metal-based catalysts (NMBCs) have always been the promising catalytic materials in fuel cell electrocatalysis. Among diversified NMBCs, one dimension (1D) construction endows them with unique anisotropic structure, large specific surface area, and high flexibility and stability, which contribute to the superior catalytic behaviors than the bulk counterparts in fuel cell reactions, mainly including (anodic alcohol oxidation reaction (AOR) and cathodic oxygen reduction oxidation (ORR)). In the field of electrocatalysis, a large number of 1D NMBCs have been reported. However, a comprehensive review of the substructure design, as well as the systematic analysis of their performance enhancement still need further research and summary. In this review, we firstly expounded the basal understanding of AOR and ORR in fuel cells in terms of the catalytic mechanism and crucial problems, then discussed the recent advances and superiorities in the 1D NMBCs with well-defined substructures, involving 1D core@shell, ultrathin, networked, hollow, jagged, and heterogeneous structures. Moreover, we highlighted the advanced strategies for improving the catalytic performances of 1D NMBCs, which involves robust composition, interface, facet, strain, and defect engineering. Finally, we outlooked the challenges and perspectives for the further enhancement in precise synthesis, performance improvement, and mechanism investigation of 1D NMBCs towards fuel cell electrocatalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to their well-known instability in air, organic n-type semiconductors must be doped to protect them from moisture and oxygen. Such doping is crucial for producing soft flexible devices that can convert large amounts of low-temperature waste heat into electrical energy. Herein, we report the preparation and thermoelectric properties of drop-cast carbon nanotube (CNT) films double-doped with the 1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene (DBU) superbase and electron-donating polyamidoamine dendrimers (PAMAM). Our method not only enhances the chemical stabilities of the electron carriers but also is favorable for large-scale applications. Despite being prepared in aqueous solvents, the p-type CNTs were found to exhibit n-type behavior, irrespective of the pKa of the electron-donating organic molecule. In particular, the addition of DBU resulted in the largest thermoelectric conversion output factor (Seebeck coefficient and power factor of −32.2 μV K−1 and 261 μW m−1 K−2, respectively). The inclusion of PAMAM as a dispersant and secondary dopant significantly prolonged the stability of the n-type behavior of DBU-doped CNTs in air at 80 °C from approximately 15 days for an undoped system to more than 30 days. Surprisingly, after 30 days, the thermoelectric conversion power factor of the doped system was found to be approximately 20% higher than that of the undoped system, confirming the excellent performance of hybrid thermoelectric material with a PAMAM shell/DBU-doped CNT core structure. In addition, its n-type doping process does not require organic solvents. These results create new avenues for the development of atmospherically stable drop-cast n-type CNT films. [Display omitted] • Durable n-type carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were fabricated. • Nitrogen-based organic compounds act as n-type dopants in CNT films. • 1,8-Diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene exhibits good thermoelectric conversion ability. • Doped CNTs covered by polyamidoamine (PAMAM) show more stable n-type behavior. • PAMAM shell/DBU-doped CNT core films are promising air-stable n-type materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] Co-modified PtTe 2 nanorods with abundant surface defects are prepared as efficient electrocatalysts for MOR. • A facile alkali-etching strategy is proposed for preparing defect-enriched PtTeM nanorods. • The PtTeCo nanorods after surface reconstruction are endowed with rich surface defects. • The modification of Co and surface reconstruction modulate the electronic structure of catalyst. • The ae-PtTeCo nanorods could deliver excellent electrocatalytic MOR performance. Nanomaterials with both one-dimensional structure and surface defect are attractive for electrocatalysis owing to the increased atomic utilization and exposed high-energetic sites. Herein, utilizing the alkali etching to drive structure reconstruction, a class of Co-modified PtTe 2 nanorods (ae-PtTeCo NRs) with surface defects are designed for efficient methanol oxidation reaction (MOR). The optimized ae-Pt 2 Te 6 Co 3 NRs show remarkable mass activity of 1.47 A mg−1 Pt and specific activity of 8.3 mA cm−2, which are 3.4-fold and 8.1-fold higher than those of commercial Pt/C, respectively. Electrochemical measurements and physical characterizations reveal that the enhanced MOR performance of ae-Pt 3 Te 6 Co 2 NRs is attributed to the abundant surface defects and optimized electronic structure, which effectively promote the oxidation of CO-like intermediates. Meanwhile, such an alkali etching strategy is universal to fabricate other metal-modified PtTe 2 NRs with surface defects, achieving a class of ae-PtTeM NRs (M = Ag, Sn, Cu, Pd, Pb, Ir, In, Cd, Bi, Ni, Ru, Ga). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • A MOF mediated method has been proposed for the synthesis of (Ru-Co)O x nanobox. • The (Ru-Co)O x nanoboxes are endowed with rich vacancies and interfaces. • The doping of ultralow Ru effectively modifies the electronic structure of CoO x. • (Ru-Co)O x nanoboxes could deliver outstanding electrocatalytic OER performance. For accelerating the reaction kinetics of oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and improving the efficiency of water electrolysis, it is essential to develop high-performance and robust OER electrocatalysts. Herein, heterostructured ruthenium-cobalt oxide hollow nanoboxes are developed for enabling a highly efficient OER electrocatalysis. Benefitting from the desirable structural and compositional merits of more exposure of surface active centers, modulated electronic structure, and interfacial synergy effect, the (Ru-Co)O x hollow nanobox could exhibit excellent electrocatalytic performance toward OER. Particularly, an extremely low overpotential of 265 mV is necessary for the optimized (Ru-Co)O x -350 to achieve a current density of 10 mA cm−2, together with a small Tafel slope of 60 mV dec-1. More interestingly, by combing (Ru-Co)O x -350 with Pt/C for driving alkaline water splitting, an ultralow cell voltage of merely 1.57 V is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]