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5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), an attractive biomass-based platform compound, holds significant promise as a renewable resource for the production of diverse value-added chemicals. Of particular interest is the selective oxidation of HMF, which enables the production of valuable compounds such as 2,5-diformylfuran (DFF), 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA), and furan-2,5-dimethylcarboxylate (FDMC). Carbon-based catalytic materials have been recognized as highly effective carriers or catalysts in organic conversions, with their catalytic activity being easily modulated through compositional and structural modifications. This comprehensive review aims to provide a summary of recent advancements in utilizing carbon-based materials for the aerobic oxidation of HMF into DFF, FDCA, and FDMC in the past five years. Additionally, an outlook is presented to identify the challenges and opportunities in this fascinating and vital research domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

N-doped carbon aerogel capsulated Co3O4 (Co3O4@NCA) is prepared via a hydrothermal method using an N-doped carbon aerogel (NCA) as a conductive carbon matrix and coating layer. Kinetic parameters are investigated using CV and GITT methods, and the improved performance could be ascribed to rapid lithium-ion diffusion and enhanced pseudocapacitance contribution induced by the introduction of carbon aerogel conductive matrices and the construction of porous nanomicro-hierarchical architectures, which endow the material with a large surface area, good conductivity, abundant pore channels, and plentiful defects and active sites, thus greatly increasing the lithium storage capacity. Used as an anode for lithium-ion batteries, Co3O4@NCA-1 displays a reversible capacity of 600.2 mA h g-1 during the 200th cycle under 100 mA g-1, 5.13 times larger than the specific charge capacity of 116.8 mA h g-1 for Co3O4 samples. Even if the current density is increased to 1 A g-1, it has 4.48 times the charge capacity of pure Co3O4. The Co3O4 modification strategy using NCA as a matrix to fabricate nanomicro-hierarchical architectures demonstrates potential applications in the energy storage field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new strategy for doping selenium and phosphide in hollow N-doped carbon nanobox (N-CNB)-based porous electrospun N-doped carbon nanofibers (CNFs) was developed. First, lightweight N-CNBs were produced. Then, a hybrid of N-CNBs and CNFs (CNBs/CNFs) was prepared using electrospinning/carbonization techniques. Eventually, P and Se atoms were doped into CNBs/CNFs using a thermal treatment approach to prepare Se/P@CNBs/CNFs. The electrocatalytic capability of the Se/P@CNBs/CNFs composite toward H2O2 oxidation was investigated for H2O2 sensing, which showed performance in a linear range from 200 μM to 1800 μM with a high sensitivity of 171 μA mM−1 cm−2 and a limit of detection (LOD) of 58 μM (S/N = 3). In addition, the ability of Se/P@CNBs/CNFs toward H2O2 sensing in human serum was studied. These results indicated the excellent electrocatalytic performance of the as-prepared Se/P@CNBs/CNFs, which could be related to the unique hollow CNBs/CNFs doped with P and Se elements with a mesoporous structure, the open channels for effective H2O2 diffusion, fast mass/electron transport, and synergistic effect between the P and Se and CNBs/CNFs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The optimal ratio of reaction solutions resulted in excellent performance and product selectivity of CuO/g-C3N4 composites in the photocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction. A pH-dependent chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) imaging nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) method was used to confirm that CuO modification improves the adsorption capacity of CO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on carbon nanofibers (CNFs) with excellent electrical conductivity, a three-layer cladding structure CNFs@Bi2WO6@CoMoO4 material was prepared by a two-step solvothermal method, which effectively combines the great catalytic ability of transition metal oxides with the good conductivity of CNFs. Titanium (Ti) mesh was used as the conductive substrate and CNFs@Bi2WO6@CoMoO4 was scraped on it to prepare paired counter electrodes (CEs), and then dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) were assembled by unifying with photoanode and iodine electrolyte. The photoelectric conversion efficiency (PCE) of 9.41% (with Voc of 0.784 V, Jsc of 17.90 mA cm−2 and FF of 0.72) was obtained under standard light conditions (AM 1.5 G). In brief, this study found a cheaper and better alternative material for Pt and also provides more possibilities for the selection of conductive substrate for CEs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fairly low power density, mainly resulting from poor electroactive bacterial (EAB) adhesion and the sluggish extracellular electron transfer (EET) at the anode interface, constrains the practical implementation of microbial fuel cells (MFCs). Therefore, the properties of the anode material are considered to be a crucial factor for the long-term operational performance of MFCs. In order to enhance the power production performance of MFCs, an aerogel composed of Fe, N, and S co-doped carbon nanofibers (CNFs) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was employed as a high-performance anode material by electrospinning, high-temperature pyrolysis and freeze-drying. The doping of Fe, N and S elements induced the formation of abundant reactive sites on the CNFs, which enhanced the electrochemical performance of the anode and the EET process. The huge electroactive area of the samples facilitated the formation of dense biofilms. Therefore, an MFC with the FeS/Fe3C@NCNFs/rGO-modified anode achieved a maximum power density of 2792.56 mW m−2 and the highest output voltage of 0.658 V, both of which were significantly higher than those of the carbon cloth anode (773.97 mW m−2 and 0.443 V). Considering the great improvement in power production, it has considerable potential as a low-cost but high-performance anode material for MFCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a sodium-ion battery anode design using red phosphorus encapsulated in nitrogen-doped porous carbon nanofibers that mitigates volume expansion and poor conductivity issues, enhancing battery performance. Density functional theory calculations suggest nitrogen doping promotes robust phosphorus interactions, and finite element analysis indicates the design controls volume expansion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exploring bifunctional electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), which combine the features of effective electrocatalytic activity, high electrical conductivity, and superior stability, remains a significant challenge for rechargeable Zn–air batteries (ZABs). Herein, we report a material, selenium (Se)-doped CoSe2 embedded in carbon nanofibers (CNFs) (denoted as Se–CoSe2/CNFs), which was synthesized as a bifunctional electrocatalyst for ZABs via electrospinning combined with in situ growth of Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-67 strategy, followed by carbonization and a facile selenization process. The as-synthesized Se–CoSe2/CNF electrode exhibits satisfactory electrochemical performance in an alkaline environment with a low overpotential of 325 mV at 10 mA cm−2 toward OER and a half-wave potential of 0.80 V for ORR. Remarkably, the Se–CoSe2/CNF catalyst-based ZAB shows a peak power density of 149.4 mW cm−2 and the voltage window barely changes after 180 h of cycling at 5 mA cm−2, which proves its great potential application for advanced bifunctional electrocatalysis in ZABs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of energy storage material technologies stands as a decisive measure in optimizing the structure of clean and low-carbon energy systems. The remarkable activity inherent in plasma technology imbues it with distinct advantages in surface modification, functionalization, synthesis, and interface engineering of materials. This review systematically expounds upon the principles, classifications, and application scenarios of plasma technology, while thoroughly discussing its unique merits in the realm of modifying electrode materials, solid-state electrolytes, and conductive carbon materials, which are widely used in lithium-ion batteries, sodium ion batteries, metal air batteries and other fields. Finally, considering the existing constraints associated with lithium-ion batteries, some application prospects of plasma technology in the energy storage field are suggested. This work is of great significance for the development of clean plasma technology in the field of energy storage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal sulfides (TMSs) are favorable as electrode materials for supercapacitors (SCs) because of their high theoretical capacity, low cost, fascinating redox reversibility, electronic conductivity, and reduced charge transfer resistance. However, TMS electrodes suffer from weak compatibility and combination at heterogeneous interfaces, resulting in TMS stripping and electrode capacity degradation during long-term charging/discharging processes. Herein, we used a convenient, feasible, cheap, and environmentally friendly hydrothermal method to grow S/CoS2/NiS2in situ on Pien Tze Huang-based porous carbon (PZH) to promote the poor electric conductivity and unsatisfactory cycling stability of TMSs. Furthermore, TMSs can be tightly embedded on the surface of PZH to prevent falling off or collapse during long-term processes and usage. The prepared S/CoS2/NiS2/PZH electrode possessed an excellent specific capacitance of 1159.2 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1, and after 10 000 cycles at 5 A g−1, the capacitance retention was maintained over 84.6%. This in situ method is promising for the development of stable TMS-based electrodes for supercapacitors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The addition of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and graphene (G) to nitrogen-doped carbon nanofibers (N–C/CNFs) greatly improves their performance as sodium ion battery anodes. However, there is currently limited research on whether the introduction of nanocarbon materials will affect the surface functional groups, defects, and material structure. Herein, the classical G and CNT were introduced into the N–C/CNFs. And the addition of G promotes the transformation of nitrogen-containing functional groups (NFGs), resulting in a substantial pore structure and an enlarged interlayer distance, which enhances the macroscopic electrochemical performance significantly. The nitrogen-doped graphene/carbon composite nanofibers (N–G/CNFs) exhibit superior electrochemical performance compared to N–C/CNFs and nitrogen-doped carbon nanotube/carbon composite nanofibers (N–CNT/CNFs). After 200 cycles, the N–G/CNFs demonstrate a reversible capacity of 295 mA h g−1 at 0.05 A g−1, significantly higher than the capacities of N–C/CNFs (193 mA h g−1) and N–CNT/CNFs (237 mA h g−1). The Na3V2(PO4)3@C//N–G/CNFs exhibit promising energy and power densities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The large amount of food waste generated worldwidely has significant adverse environmental impacts to our entire ecosystem, highlighting the urgent need for a historic resolution to achieve sustainable managment of food waste as well as its circular economy. In this regard, preparation of engineered biochars from food waste has garnered significant attention for CO2 capture, as this upcycling potential could play a significant role in advancing the concept of a negative carbon circular economy. Hence, this review holistically explores the potential of food waste-derived engineered biochars as CO2 adsorbents, not only from sample-level to process-level CO2 adsorption, but also from a life-cycle perspective. Sample-level CO2 adsorption is examined in terms of synthetic methods and procedures, focusing on application and optimisation of carbonisation, activation, and surface modification processes. The application of machine learning for guiding syntheses of high-performance CO2 adsorbents derived from food waste is also dicussed. Process-level CO2 adsorption is examined in terms of two primary cycling configurations, namely pressure swing adsorption and temperature swing adsorption, whose efficiency is critical for commercialisation. In addition, a comprehensive life-cycle assessment is performed to provide a novel and timely overview of the environmental impacts of CO2 adsorption using food waste-derived engineered biochars. This review demonstrates the viability and potential of integrating food waste-derived engineered biochars with carbon capture technologies to afford an environmentally friendly innovation for sustainable food waste management and climate change mitigation, which is benefical to achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals including Goals 11–13. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tartrazine (TRZ) is a synthetic food dye considered noxious to human health and a toxic environmental contaminant owing to the presence of a harmful azo group (–N＝ N–) in its chemical structure. The global necessity to prevent food contamination has led scientific researchers to develop disposable sensing platforms. This study aims to integrate nanotechnology with electrochemistry to fabricate a disposable screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE) with a nanocomposite composed of gadolinium molybdate (Gd2MoO6) nanoflowers decorated on an enmeshed matrix of acid-functionalized carbon nanofibers (f-CNF). The hierarchal arrangement of distinct components in the nanocomposite is promoted by synergism through the formation of a hybrid heterojunction. This heterojunction in the electrode modifier activates the electrode to sense TRZ with a remarkable limit of detection (0.8 nmol L−1) and quantification (2 nmol L−1) over a broad linear range of 0.025 μM to 216.45 μM. Furthermore, the functional sensing ability of the proposed sensor was analyzed in various commercial food products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Owing to the clean and environment friendly advantages, electrochemical water splitting stands out among various hydrogen production strategies. Electrocatalysts play an important role in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Hence, Pt-(Ni0.5Co0.5)2P/S-carbon fibers as electrocatalysts for highly efficient HER were prepared through the structural designing of CNF and heteroatom doping (sulfur (S) or boron (B)). First, three composites of the (Ni0.5Co0.5)2P/carbon fiber ((Ni0.5Co0.5)2P/CNF), (Ni0.5Co0.5)2P/porous carbon fiber ((Ni0.5Co0.5)2P/PCNF), and (Ni0.5Co0.5)2P/hollow porous carbon fiber ((Ni0.5Co0.5)2P/HPCNF) were fabricated via a facile electrospinning with a solvothermal method. (Ni0.5Co0.5)2P/PCNFs showed the smallest overpotential at a current density of 10 mA cm−2 among the three structures. (Ni0.5Co0.5)2P nanosheets loaded on the porous CNF with a large active surface area may expose active sites and shorten the ion transport channel. To improve the catalytic performance of (Ni0.5Co0.5)2P/PCNF, Pt nanoparticles were anchored on (Ni0.5Co0.5)2P/heteroatom doped-PCNF by the chemical reduction method. Pt-(Ni0.5Co0.5)2P/S doped-PCNF exhibited a small overpotential of 64 mV for the HER with 74.9 mV dec−1 Tafel slope and a good stability, which was attributed to the conductive S-doped PCNF facilitating electron transport, accompanying the synergistic effect between the bimetallic phosphide and Pt nanoparticles, thus providing a facile method for an efficient HER electrocatalysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although they are emerging technologies for achieving high-efficiency and green and eco-friendly energy conversion, ceramic electrochemical cells (CECs), i.e. solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs) and fuel cells (SOFCs), are still fundamentally limited by their inferior catalytic activities at low temperature, poor thermo-mechanical stability, high material cost, etc. The materials used in electrolytes and electrodes, which are the most important components in CECs, are highly associated with the cell performances. Therefore, rational design of electrolytes and electrodes with excellent catalytic activities and high stabilities at relatively low cost is a meaningful and valuable approach for the development of CECs. Nanotechnology is a powerful tool for improving the material performances in CECs owing to the favourable effects induced by the nanocrystallization of electrolytes and electrodes. Herein, a relatively comprehensive review on the nanotechnologies implemented in CECs is conducted. The working principles of CECs and the corresponding challenges were first presented, followed by the comprehensive insights into the working mechanisms of nanocrystalline materials in CECs. Then, systematic summarization and analyses of the commonly used nano-engineering strategies in the fabrication of CEC materials, including physical and chemical methods, were provided. In addition, the frontiers in the research of advanced electrolyte and electrode materials were discussed with a special emphasis on the modified electrochemical properties derived from nanotechnologies. Finally, the bottlenecks and the promising breakthroughs in nanotechnologies were highlighted in the direction of providing useful references for rational design of nanomaterials for CECs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon materials play an important role in supercapacitors due to their structural diversity, rich surface morphology, excellent chemical stability and highly active surfaces. Currently, there are many reports on the synthesis methods for carbon-based materials. The molten salt method stands out among the many methods for its advantages of economy, environmental protection, high efficiency, and maneuverability. Here, we focus on the different roles played by molten salts as templates, sealants, reaction media, and catalysts from the point of view of their functions. The properties and selection principles of the molten salts are discussed in depth, focusing on the morphology, structure, and capacitive properties of the carbon materials prepared using the molten salt strategy. Finally, the current research status of the preparation of carbon-based materials by the molten salt method is summarized, the shortcomings of existing technology are pointed out, and the prospects for its development are envisioned. It is hoped that this review can provide some basic knowledge for the preparation of carbon-based materials by the molten salt method and promote further research on molten salt technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon-based materials have demonstrated excellent thermal, electric, optical, magnetic, and mechanical properties, offering promising application potential in many fields. Corresponding synthetic approaches meeting the requirements of sustainable development goals are always desired. Compared with chemical vapor deposition, solvothermal, conventional pyrolysis, and salt-assisted methods are emerging as advanced synthetic technologies for the fabrication of carbon-based materials since these processes are expected to be more sustainable. Herein, we provide a comprehensive review on the salt-assisted synthesis of carbon-based materials and their typical energy-related applications. First, the properties of carbon and a comparison of various synthetic techniques are briefly introduced. In particular, we highlight the advantages of salt-assisted synthesis in view of sustainable development goals. For convenience, we divide the roles of salt in assisting the synthesis of carbon-based materials into four subclasses: reaction medium, pore-forming agent, morphology control, and precursors. Simultaneously, the applications of these carbon-based materials in energy-related fields are discussed. Lastly, the major challenges in this field are outlined, and future research avenues in salt-assisted synthesis of carbon-based materials for energy-related applications are also highlighted. It is expected that this tutorial review will supply necessary background information to further advance salt-assisted synthesis of carbon-based materials for energy-related applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An Fe2P nanoparticle (Fe2P NP)-decorated carbon nanofiber (represented as Fe2P@CNF) composite was in situ prepared by electrospinning and subsequent high-temperature treatment. Benefitting from the synergy effect between Fe2P NPs and CNFs, as well as improved interface polarization and impedance matching, the Fe2P@CNF composite exhibits excellent microwave absorption performance relative to pure CNFs, in which the Fe2P@CNF composite with a fill loading of only 10 wt% possesses a minimum reflection loss (RL) of −49.2 dB at 3.0 mm and a maximum effective absorption bandwidth of 6.0 GHz at 2.2 mm. Therefore, this work provides a promising approach for the design and synthesis of an Fe2P@CNF composite with high-performance microwave absorption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elemental doping is an effective and attractive method for improving the photocatalytic performance. Here we synthesized three types of O-doped carbon nitride nanofibers (ACN, CCN, and LCN) through a one-pot simple solvothermal process by using L -arginine, L -cysteine and L -lysine as O dopants into pristine carbon nitride nanofibers (CNF). The three O-doped samples exhibited enhanced light harvesting capacity and satisfactory O2 adsorption and activation ability, which is beneficial for the following H2O2 generation process. The photocatalytic H2O2 generation rates of the optimal ACN, CCN, and LCN samples are 156.9, 166.2 and 107.2 μmol g−1 h−1, which are higher than that of pristine CNF (72.3 μmol g−1 h−1). Especially, CCN shows an apparent quantum efficiency of 4.66% at 420 nm. The results of photocurrent measurements and photoluminescence spectra indicate that the charge carrier recombination was effectively inhibited in the O-doped samples. Our research provides an effective and environmentally friendly strategy to improve the H2O2 generation performance by using common compounds in human life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, MnO2 nanoflowers are electrodeposited on a self-supported and electroconductive electrode in which 2D Ti3C2Tx nanosheets are encased in carbon nanofibers (MnO2@Ti3C2Tx/CNFs). This improves the conductivity and hydrophilicity of the MnO2 composite electrode. The asymmetric supercapacitor shows a high energy density of 46.4 W h kg−1 and a power density of 4 kW kg−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, a novel multi-component electrocatalyst that integrates CuCo-MnO nanoparticles (NPs), carbon nanotubes and electrospun carbon nanofibers (CuCo-MnO@CNTs/CNFs) was prepared by combining electrospinning technology and an NH3 assisted graphitization process. The self-supported CuCo-MnO@CNTs/CNFs achieves impressive catalytic activity with overpotentials of 33 and 184 mV at 10 mA cm−2 for the HER, and 180 mV and 250 mV for the OER at 10 mA cm−2 in both acidic and alkaline solutions, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Metal-free heterogeneous catalysis is promising in the context of H2 generation. Therefore, establishing structure–activity relationships is a crucial issue to improve the development of more efficient catalysts. Herein, to evaluate the reactivity of the oxygen functionalities in carbonaceous materials, commercial functionalized pyrolytically stripped carbon nanofibers (CNFs) were used as catalysts in the liquid-phase hydrous hydrazine decomposition process and its activity was compared to that of a pristine CNF material. Different oxygenated groups were inserted by treating CNFs with hydrogen peroxide for 1 h (O1-H2O2) and HNO3 for 1 h (O1-HNO3) and 6 h (O6-HNO3). An increase in activity was observed as a function of the oxidizing agent strength (HNO3 > H2O2) and the functionalization time (6 h > 1 h). A thorough characterization of the catalysts demonstrated that the activity could be directly correlated with the oxygen content (O6-HNO3 > O1-HNO3 > O1-H2O2 > CNFs) and pointed out the active sites for the reaction at carbon–oxygen double bond groups (C＝O and COOH). Systematic DFT calculations supported rationalization of the experimental kinetic trends with respect to each oxygen group (C＝O, C–O–C, C–OH and COOH). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitrogen-doped carbon nanoribbons and nanotubes decorated with Co3O4 nanoparticles were prepared by a metal-catalyzed graphitization–nitridization and oxidization process, using triazole and melamine as a solid nitrogen/carbon co-source, and assessed as anodes of lithium ion batteries (LIBs). These composite anodes display perfect electrochemical performance, indicating their potential for application in LIBs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar-driven steam generation (SSG) systems for sustainable clean water desalination and purification through photothermal conversion have been widely studied. Integrating solar-driven electricity generation (SEG) including hydroelectricity, saline electricity, moisture electricity, and thermoelectricity during the evaporation process is an effective way to utilize energy comprehensively. Carbon materials with superior stability, processability, practicability, abundance, and cost-effectiveness have aroused tremendous attention in the solar-driven steam and electricity generation (SSEG) field. Carbon materials can simultaneously play the essential role of solar absorbers for energy harvesting and conductive substrates for energy generation during SSEG. In this review, energy harvesting and generation mechanisms of carbon materials with different dimensions are first introduced. Afterward, the hybrid evaporation-induced electricity generation devices including hydroelectricity, saline electricity, moisture electricity, and thermoelectricity, and relevant efficiency-improving strategies are demonstrated. Moreover, the potential applications in power supply, energy storage, and electrical sensors are also discussed. Finally, some remaining challenges are considered, and suggestions for future development are sincerely proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Catalysts with high catalytic activity and low cost are extremely significant for hydrogen production by water cracking. In this work, through simple electrospinning and carbonization methods, Ru with excellent catalytic activity is dispersed onto Fe4C to form Ru–Fe4C nanoparticles loaded on N-doped carbon nanofibers (Ru–Fe4C/NCNF), so that Ru can expose more active sites and thus improve HER catalytic activity. Meanwhile, the addition of low-cost Fe can reduce the use of noble metal Ru, thereby reducing the catalyst cost. On the other hand, the prepared Ru–Fe4C/NCNF can be used as a self-supporting working electrode and shows good stability. The experimental results show that the prepared Ru–Fe4C/NCNF can drive a current density of 10 mA cm−2 with only 106 mV in 1 M KOH, and more importantly, only 254 mV can produce a current density of 100 mA cm−2. At the same time, it shows excellent stability after continuously working for 100 h at a current density of 100 mA cm−2. This work provides a new thought to synthesize economical catalysts with high catalytic activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building a stronger bioeconomy requires production capabilities that are largely generated through microbial genetic engineering. Plant feedstocks can additionally be genetically engineered to generate desirable feedstock traits and provide precursors for direct microbial conversion into desired products. The oleaginous yeast Rhodosporidium toruloides is a promising organism for this type of conversion as it can grow on a wide range of deconstructed biomass and consume a variety of carbon sources. Here, we leveraged R. toruloides native p-coumaric acid consumption pathway to accumulate protocatechuate (PCA) from 4-hydroxybenzoate (4HBA) released from a sorghum feedstock line genetically engineered to overproduce 4HBA. We did so by generating and evaluating an R. toruloides strain that accumulates PCA, RSΔ12623. We then show that at two scales a cholinium lysinate pretreatment with enzymatic saccharification successfully extracts 95% of the 4HBA from the engineered sorghum biomass while producing deconstructed lignin that can be more efficiently depolymerized in a subsequent thermochemical reaction. We also demonstrate that strain RSΔ12623 can convert more than 95% of 4HBA to PCA while consuming >95% of the glucose and >80% of the xylose present in sorghum hydrolysates. Finally, to evaluate the scalability of such fermentations, we conducted the conversion of 4HBA to PCA in a 2 L bioreactor under controlled conditions. This work demonstrates the potential of purposefully producing aromatic precursors in planta that can be liberated during biomass deconstruction for direct microbial conversion to desirable bioproducts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The binary composite, ZnSnO3 microcubes (ZSO MC) homogeneously parceled in an N-doped carbon nanofiber membrane (ZSO@CNFM), was synthesized via a mild hydrothermal, electrospinning and carbonization process as a flexible lithium-ion battery (LIB) anode material. The unique carbon-coating layer architecture of ZSO@CNFM not only plays a crucial role in alleviating the volume change of ZSO MC during lithium ion insertion/extraction processes, but also constructs a three-dimensional (3D) transport network with the help of interconnected carbon nanofibers (CNFs) to ensure the structural integrity of the material and promote the electrochemical reaction kinetics. Due to its good flexibility characteristics, the as-prepared ZSO@CNFM can be directly adopted as an anode material for LIBs without the use of copper foil, conductive carbon black and any binder. Electrochemical surveying results manifest that the optimal ZSO@CNFM electrode displays excellent cycling stability (582.6 mA h g−1 after 100 lithiation/delithiation cycles at 100 mA g−1), high coulombic efficiency (CE, 99.6% at 100th cycles), and superior rate performance (349.5 mA h g−1 at 2 A g−1). The good electrochemical properties can be ascribed to the synergistic effect of the high theoretical specific capacity of ZSO MC, favourable stability of the carbon substrate, the open structure of ZSO@CNFM and the 3D continuous highly conductive framework for rapid electron/ion transfer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The detection of trolox, which is an antioxidant such as vitamin E, is essential, as its excess use causes health problems. In this work, we introduce a hydrothermal method followed by a sonochemical treatment to synthesize tin sulfide (SnS)-decorated carbon nanofiber (f-CNF) as a highly sensitive electrode material for detecting trolox. The synthesized tin sulfide-decorated carbon nanofiber (SnS@f-CNF) composite structures and their surface morphology were analyzed by spectroscopic and microscopic studies. The synergistic effect of SnS@f-CNF composites imparts a low resistance charge transfer (Rct) of 52 Ω cm2, a redox potential (Epc) of 0.174 V for oxidation and 0.124 V for reduction vs. Ag/AgCl and a good response range of 0.5–26 μM with a lower limit of detection of 0.02 μM towards the detection of trolox. Enhanced active surface area, decreased charge recombination, and high analyte adsorption contribute to the high loading of biomarkers for excellent selectivity (by adding 8 interfering substances), stability (40 cycles), and repeated measurements. The proposed novel sensor was successfully used for the real-time analysis of trolox in food with good recovery values, illustrating the experiment's safety and reliability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, porous carbon nanofibers were produced via one-step carbonization and activation of cellulose acetate/polyacrylonitrile (CA/PAN) hybrid nanofibers using electrospinning. Zinc acetate effectively enhanced the thermal stability of CA without deacetylation and served as a template for pore creation. The effect of the mass ratio of CA to PAN on the microstructure and capacitive properties of the resulting carbon nanofiber membrane electrodes was investigated. All the membrane electrodes displayed self-supporting structures. The specific surface area, pore volume and specific capacitance of the membrane electrodes gradually increased with an increase in the CA : PAN mass ratio from 2 : 1 to 6 : 1, and then slightly decreased when the mass ratio reached 8 : 1. The CNF-C6P1 membrane electrode exhibited excellent flexibility, with a maximum specific surface area of ∼563.8 m2 g−1, largest specific capacitance of 132.2 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1, and excellent rate capability of 53.3% at 20 A g−1. After 4000 cycles of the charge/discharge process in a two-electrode system, this membrane electrode could still retain 85.1% of the original specific capacitance and the coulombic efficiency was close to 100%, showing high electrochemical stability and reversibility. This work provides a simple and effective strategy for the design and synthesis of flexible electrode materials for supercapacitors from cellulose acetate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The nitrate reduction reaction is emerging as having tremendous potential to mitigate nitrate pollution and simultaneously produce valuable ammonia. Here, we propose Co3O4 nanoparticles embedded in porous carbon nanofibers (Co3O4@CNF) as a high-efficiency catalyst to convert nitrate to ammonia, and it achieves a high faradaic efficiency of 92.7% and an extremely large NH3 yield of 23.4 mg h−1 mg−1cat, and also presents excellent electrochemical stability. Theoretical calculations reveal that the potential determining step (PDS) reaches as low as 0.28 eV. This work is expected to open a new avenue to rationally design robust noble-metal-free catalysts for the electrochemical synthesis of ammonia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a fascinating solid-phase synthesis of ultra-small CuMo solid solution alloy nanoclusters (2.1 nm) anchored on electrospun carbon nanofibers (CuMo/CNFs). By tuning the weight ratio of Cu and Mo, the optimized Cu2Mo1/CNFs achieves excellent CO2RR performance with a high faradaic efficiency (FE) of 84.5% for C2+ products and an FEethanol of 75.7%. In situ characterization demonstrates that the Cu2Mo1 alloy can strengthen the adsorption of the crucial intermediate and promote C–C coupling, leading to high selectivity and efficiency for C2+ products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) have been widely explored and utilized in sodium-ion battery (SIB) anodes owing to their unique advantages, such as high theoretical specific capacity and low cost. However, their inherent defects, such as low electronic conductivity and severe volume expansion, seriously limit the further development of TMC-based anodes. Here, a novel composite material of CoSe2 nanoparticles (NPs) encapsulated in a dual one-dimensional (1D) carbon composite structure (CoSe2@CNTs/N-CNFs) was designed deliberately. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were grown in situ on the surface of carbon nanofibers (CNFs) with eco-friendly ethanol as the carbon source, while electrospun polyacrylonitrile (PAN) fibers were pyrolyzed to form nitrogen-doped nanofibers. It is noted that the wrapping with the composite carbon structure greatly improved the stability of CoSe2 NPs and solved its inherent defects as an anode material. When assembled into a half-cell, the CoSe2@CNTs/N-CNFs electrode exhibited outstanding sodium storage performance with a reversible specific capacity of 442 mA h g−1 after 100 cycles at 0.1 A g−1, as well as excellent rate performance, and the discharge specific capacity still reached 265 mA h g−1 even after 2000 cycles at a high current density of 5 A g−1. This study shows a new way to build a novel carbon substrate and TMC composite sodium storage material with low cost. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries have attracted great research attention because of their high energy density and low cost. However, shuttling effects of polysulfides and insulation from elemental sulfur hinder their practical application. Herein, we report hollow carbon nanofibers filled with carbon nanotubes (denoted as HCNF/CNT) as host materials for sulfur to mitigate the shuttling behavior and improve the kinetics of insulative sulfur. The as-prepared HCNF/CNT with nano-conductive domains in the hollow carbon nanofibers enables high loading and efficient utilization of sulfur. Owing to their unique structural superiority, the sulfur-encapsulated HCNF/CNT cathode materials for Li–S batteries deliver excellent electrochemical performance, including high specific capacity of 1156 mA h g−1 at 0.2 C, good rate performance and cycling stability with a capacity retention of 77.2% after 200 cycles at 2 C. Such a unique structure can provide inspiration for the rational structural design of carbon materials as hosts for high performance Li–S batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel sandwich-like porous carbon nanosheet-supported hexagonal carbon micro-flakes (WPWMC) are fabricated via a one-step hydrothermal route at 700 °C with polyethylene as the precursor and magnesium as the inducer. Through various characterizations, it is confirmed that the hexagonal carbon micro-flakes exhibit (002) orientation, which exposes abundant edge active sites and shortens the K+ transmission path. Moreover, the inside cross-linked carbon nanosheets with abundant pores can accelerate ion diffusion and increase the capacitive contribution. The WPWMC anode displays a high reversible capacity (528.7 mA h g−1 at 0.2 A g−1), good rate capability (152.7 mA h g−1 at 10 A g−1) and long-term cycle stability (112.1 mA h g−1 at 5 A g−1 after 10 000 cycles). Furthermore, the WPWMC//CMK-3 hybrid capacitor exhibits an energy density of 222.7 W h kg−1 at 446.2 W kg−1. This work provides an idea for transforming waste plastic into value-added materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document is a back cover of the journal "Chemical Communications" and highlights a new issue dedicated to sustainable chemistry and new solutions for an open, green, and inclusive future. It features research from Professor Xue-Lu Wang's laboratory at East China Normal University in Shanghai, China. One of the featured studies discusses the use of carbon nitride nanosheet-supported CuO for efficient photocatalytic CO2 reduction with 100% CO selectivity. Another study focuses on a supramolecular helix of an oligomeric azapeptide building block. The document provides the necessary information for library patrons to decide if they want to explore the articles further. [Extracted from the article]

The document titled "Front cover" is from the New Journal of Chemistry and was published on April 7, 2024. The article discusses the preparation of nanocellulose-based nitrogen-doped carbon aerogel electrocatalysts for zinc-air batteries through hydrothermal pretreatment. The article is part of Volume 48, Number 13, and spans pages 5557-6042. The Royal Society of Chemistry also offers approved training courses for professional development, with members receiving a 10% discount. [Extracted from the article]

Lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs) are considered as a new generation of large-scale energy-storage devices. However, LSBs suffer from a lack of desirable cathode materials with excellent specific capacity and cyclic stability. Here, we designed a sulfur-coated nitrogen-doped branched carbon nanofiber (NBCNF@S) hybrid cathode for Li–S batteries, in which the hierarchical structure of the nitrogen-doped branched carbon nanofibers (NBCNFs) with good flexibility and conductivity provides a protective buffer for the volume expansion that occurs during electrochemical processes. The NBCNF@S electrode displayed a reversible specific capacity of 1280 mA h g−1 in the 1st cycle and was able to maintain a stable reversible discharge capacity of 1039 mA h g−1 with the Coulombic efficiency reaching almost 100% for 200 cycles. The electrode was still able to deliver exceptional reversible capacities of 188 and 168 mA h g−1, after 1000 and 2000 cycles, respectively, only decreasing by 0.02%/cycle. The excellent electrochemical performance can be attributed to the confinement of polysulfides, which involves the nitrogen doping effectively preventing the polysulfides from dissolving in the electrolyte during cycling. NBCNF@S synergistically anchors the polysulfides and therefore strongly suppresses the shuttle effect during the charge–discharge process, resulting in less capacity loss and better long-term cycling stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carbon-based quantum dots (QDs), as a new type of zero-dimensional (0D) inorganic material, are favored by researchers because of their superior optical properties, good water solubility, and biocompatibility. Besides graphene QDs (GQDs), many new carbon-based QD materials with good quality and excellent performance have emerged in recent years, such as g-C3N4 QDs (CNQDs), MXene QDs (MQDs), and graphdiyne QDs (GDQDs). These carbon-based QDs will open up unprecedented new opportunities in the fields of materials science, energy and environmental photocatalysis. Regrettably, a comprehensive review of the relevant topics is lacking. This review focuses on the applications of emerging carbon-based QD materials in sustainable photocatalysis. Herein, the structural characteristics of carbon-based QDs are first depicted. On this basis, the preparation, modification, and photocatalytic mechanism of high-quality carbon-based QDs are comprehensively summarized. Subsequently, the latest research progress on typical carbon-based QDs in the field of sustainable photocatalysis is discussed categorically. Finally, the future developments and challenges of highly active carbon-based QDs are proposed insightfully. This review is expected to provide powerful scientific guidance for the design, fabrication, and application of carbon-based QD materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, binder-free tungsten oxide carbon nanofibers and graphene oxide composites (WO3 CNFs/GO) were prepared as self-supporting anodes for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) by applying a one-step electrostatic spinning technology. Owing to the combination of WO3 CNFs (WCF) and graphene oxide (GO), the composites exhibit excellent performance by suppressing expansion during the cycle. WO3 CNFs (WCF) provide excellent continuity and uniform width, and the GO adhered to the WCF forms a cross-linked conductive network and an internal mesoporous environment, which reduces the diffusion distance of electrons/ions and facilitates charge transfer. In addition, the disordered arrangement of WO3 CNFs (WCFs) can increase the porosity and increase the contact area with the electrolyte, which is more favorable for electrolyte penetration. The WO3 CNF/GO (WCFG) anode had a specific capacity of 644.6 mA h g−1 after 250 cycles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herein, we present a freestanding and flexible 3D nanocomposite made of polyhedral spherical FeCoS2 and nitrogen-doped hollow carbon nanofibers (FeCoS2@N-HCNFs) that is synthesized through coaxial electrospinning, high-temperature calcination, and a facile solvothermal process. As a binder-free anode composite for potassium-ion batteries (PIBs), FeCoS2@N-HCNF presents a high specific discharge capacity on the first lap (701.2 mA h g−1 at 100 mA g−1) and superior cycling stability (132.6 mA h g−1 at 3200 mA g−1 after 600 cycles). The impressive electrochemical performance can be ascribed to the unique 3D structure, such as the enormous specific surface area of the mesoporous structure beneficial for K+ transfer, the three-dimensional hollow carbon nanofiber scaffold enhances the structural stability, and polyhedral spherical FeCoS2 improves the overall specific capacity. According to the above description, the FeCoS2@N-HCNF anode is a promising candidate for advanced potassium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Manganese oxides are promising cathode material candidates with appropriate positive potential windows for low-cost and safe aqueous sodium-ion capacitors (ASICs). However, their low electrical conductivity issue and the lack of advanced binder-free manganese oxide-based electrodes severely restrict their practical capacitance and application in flexible ASICs. Here, Ni0.25Mn0.75O (NMO) nanoparticles uniformly encapsulated in carbon nanofiber films with excellent flexibility are fabricated by electrospinning and subsequent carbonization. The uniformly amorphous carbon layer enhances the conductivity, avoids dissolution and alleviates the volume or stress change of NMO during ion intercalation or mechanical deformation. More importantly, compared with the flexible electrodes prepared by traditional methods, electrospinning materials can be directly used as binder-free electrodes, which can effectively simplify the process and improve the energy density. Finally, a 2.4 V flexible quasi-solid-state ASIC device is integrated, which exhibits a high energy density of 5.95 mWh cm−3, a high power density of 670 mW cm−3 and an outstanding stability of 1000 cycles. This work offers an effective materials engineering strategy for high-performance binder-free NMO-based cathodes and advanced flexible ASICs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, porous CoFe2O4/carbon composite nanofibers with metal–organic framework (MOF) structures were prepared by electrospinning and in situ growth followed by annealing. CoFe2O4 particles derived from Prussian blue analogues (PBAs) were firmly anchored onto highly conductive carbon nanofibers by tuning the growth time, generating the sturdy construction and prominent conductivity of CFO@C-24 with a large specific surface area, stable fibrous morphology and MOF structure integrity. Owing to these structural merits, more active sites are provided with accelerated electron/Li-ion transport when the nanofiber is applied as an anode in lithium-ion batteries. A high initial discharge/charge capacity of 1400/1328 mA h g−1 at 0.1 A g−1, a considerable reversible discharge/charge capacity of 623/598 mA h g−1after 400 cycles at 1 A g−1 and an excellent rate performance of 585 mA h g−1 at 1.5 A g−1 are presented. Specific capacities of 1166, 1059, 861, 742 and 585 mA h g−1 of CFO@C-24 are achieved at multiple current densities of 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1 and 1.5 A g−1, respectively, and the discharge specific capacity is able to resume to 1035 mA h g−1 when returned to 0.1 A g−1. Upon assembling into full cells, considerable capacitance and rate performance are delivered and a series of LED bulbs can be lit to demonstrate its potential in real applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As a post-nanotechnology concept, nanoarchitectonics has attracted much attention in recent years. Nanoarchitectonics is used to architect functional materials and systems from nanounits through the fusion of nanotechnology with other fields. Nanoporous carbon materials can be regarded as successful products of nanoarchitectonic approaches. High capabilities in structural regulations and modification of material nature would lead to various functional performances, especially in environmental usage. This review summarizes the recent progresses in the field of metal-free porous carbons nanoarchitectonics, mainly derived from metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and fullerene self-assembled nanostructures. The preparation methods for both the MOF-derived and fullerene crystals-derived nanostructured carbons without metal species are explained in detail. Moreover, the applications of such carbons for environmental remediation through the adsorption of contaminants of emerging concern and detection of volatile organic compounds, especially with the quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) technique, are summarized. Importantly, innovative ideas or trends will be suggested for future research in these fields. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microwave absorbers with light weight and excellent microwave absorption performance are urgently needed in the microwave absorption field, which is still a challenge. Herein, N-doped carbon nanofibers decorated with nickel nanoparticles (Ni@CNFs) were synthesized by a facile electrospinning method combined with a two-step heat treatment, in which Ni nanoparticles are uniformly dispersed in carbon nanofibers. Benefitting from the special nanoarchitecture (including Ni nanoparticles encapsulated with graphitic carbon layers and carbon nanotube protrusions anchored on CNFs), three-dimensional conductive networks, the synergistic effect between suitable impedance matching and satisfactory electromagnetic (EM) attenuation ability, a superb comprehensive microwave absorption (MA) property is achieved for the optimal Ni@CNF sample with a rather low filler loading of 5 wt%. The optimal reflection loss (RL) reaches −66.3 dB at a small thickness of 3.1 mm and the maximum effective absorption bandwidth (EAB, RL < −10.0 dB) as wide as 4.56 GHz is obtained at 2.0 mm. This study demonstrates that the carefully designed Ni@CNF composites are superior to many previously reported magnetic carbon-based hybrid absorbers and can be applied as promising candidates for light weight and high-efficiency EM wave absorbers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly graphitic porous carbon was derived from kelp biomass and prepared using KOH as the main activating agent with K2FeO4 as the assisting activated agent for supercapacitor applications. The optimum K2FeO4 mass in the total activating agent and temperature were investigated. The characterization results showed porous sheet carbon with a high specific surface area of 2868 m2 g−1 and a low ID/IG of 0.909. It delivered an excellent specific capacitance of 438 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1. In addition, the assembled supercapacitor device reached the highest energy density of 19.9 W h kg−1 with a power density of 398 W kg−1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amorphous carbon materials have been confirmed as attractive anode materials for lithium-ion batteries. Herein, an effective strategy to fabricate amorphous carbon materials at low temperature under air atmosphere is proposed. As demonstrated, one-dimensional nitrogen-doping carbon nanofibers were obtained through simple electrospinning technology, following low-temperature heat treatment. Meanwhile, the nitrogen-doping concentration can be regulated by the heating temperature, which can further introduce different levels of adsorption sites on the surface of carbon and enhance the electronic conductivity. Based on experimental investigation, carbon nanofibers with a high nitrogen doping concentration of 18.1 at% achieved an outstanding cycling durability (194.0 mA h g−1 at 2.0 A g−1 after 2000 cycles). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We design a vanadium nitride (VN) modified porous carbon nanofiber film as the host to load SeS2 as the cathode (SeS2@VN/CNFs) for improving Li storage capacity. The conductive porous carbon nanofibers can accommodate active SeS2 and release the volume change. The introduced VN nanoparticles can chemically anchor the intermediate species and improve the utilization of SeS2. As a result, the SeS2@VN/CNFs cathode displays a superior electrochemical performance including a high reversible capacity of 806 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C and good long-term cycling stability in Li–SeS2 batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of carbon dioxide utilization (CDU) technologies is heavily influenced by policy priorities such as access to renewable energy resources and the country's economic structure. At the same time, most conversion-based CDU technologies are early-stage technologies characterized by significant uncertainties due to a nascent knowledgebase and limited available data. Consequently, identifying major sustainability hurdles and hotspots is crucial in ensuring effective allocations of R&D resources in technology upgrading and upscaling. In this study, we formulate the task of identifying sustainability hurdles as assessing and ranking key sources of risk that influence whether a given CDU technology is sustainable or not. To this end, we propose a novel methodology for risk-based uncertainty assessment through classification based on stakeholder-set sustainability decision rules. Risk is subsequently quantified by comparing the class likelihoods. For multiple sustainability criteria scenarios, additional stakeholder input in the form of joint conditional probabilities is implemented in the decision rules. We demonstrate the methodology by applying it to the CO2 hydrogenation to formic acid process employing heterogeneous Ru/bpyTN-30-CTF catalysts, being developed as part of the ongoing Carbon-to-X R&D initiative in South Korea. The proposed methodology is most applicable to CDU technologies with TRLs between 3 and 5 in which the core utilization concepts have already been experimentally validated and the conceptual design process has started. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]