MXenes: Versatile 2D materials with tailored surface chemistry and diverse applications

MXenes,the most recent addition to the 2D material family,have attracted significant attention owing to their distinctive characteristics,including high surface area,conductivity,surface characteristics,mechanical strength,etc.This review begins by presenting MXenes,providing insights into their structural characteristics,synthesis methods,and surface functional groups.The review covers a thorough analysis of MXene surface properties,including surface chemistry and termination group impacts.The properties of MXenes are influenced by their synthesis,which can be fluorine-based or fluorinedependent.Fluorine-based synthesis techniques involve etching with fluorine-based reagents,mainly including HF or LiF/HCl,while fluorine-free methods include electrochemical etching,chemical vapor deposition(CVD),alkaline etching,Lewis acid-based etching,etc.These techniques result in the emergence of functional groups such as-F,-O,-OH,-Cl,etc.on the MXenes surface,depending on the synthesis method used.Properties of MXenes,such as electrical conductivity,electronic properties,catalytic activity,magnetic properties,mechanical strength,and chemical and thermal stability,are examined,and the role of functional groups in determining these properties is explored.The review delves into the diverse applications of MXenes,encompassing supercapacitors,battery materials,hydrogen storage,fuel cells,electromagnetic interference(EMI) shielding,pollutant removal,water purification,flexible electronics,sensors,additive manufacturing,catalysis,biomedical and healthcare fields,etc.Finally,this article outlines the challenges and opportunities in the current and future development of MXenes research,addressing various aspects such as synthesis scalability,etching challenges,and multifunctionality,and exploring novel applications.The review concludes with future prospects and conclusions envisioning the impact of MXenes on future technologies and innovation.

Achieving asymmetric redox chemistry for oxygen evolution reaction through strong metal-support interactions

Water electrolysis poses a significant challenge for balancing catalytic activity and stability of oxygen evolution reaction(OER)electrocatalysts.In this study,we address this challenge by constructing asymmetric redox chemistry through elaborate surface OO–Ru–OH and bulk Ru–O–Ni/Fe coordination moieties within single-atom Ru-decorated defective NiFe LDH nanosheets(Ru@d-NiFe LDH)in conjunction with strong metal-support interactions(SMSI).Rigorous spectroscopic characterization and theoretical calculations indicate that single-atom Ru can delocalize the O 2p electrons on the surface and optimize d-electron configurations of metal atoms in bulk through SMSI.The^(18)O isotope labeling experiment based on operando differential electrochemical mass spectrometry(DEMS),chemical probe experiments,and theoretical calculations confirm the encouraged surface lattice oxygen,stabilized bulk lattice oxygen,and enhanced adsorption of oxygen-containing intermediates for bulk metals in Ru@d-NiFe LDH,leading to asymmetric redox chemistry for OER.The Ru@d-NiFe LDH electrocatalyst exhibits exceptional performance with an overpotential of 230 mV to achieve 10 mA cm^(−2)and maintains high robustness under industrial current density.This approach for achieving asymmetric redox chemistry through SMSI presents a new avenue for developing high-performance electrocatalysts and instills confidence in its industrial applicability.

Why the abnormal phenomena of D-band center theory exist?A new BASED theory for surface catalysis and chemistry

Since the D-band center theory was proposed,it has been widely used in the fields of surface chemistry by almost all researchers,due to its easy understanding,convenient operation and relative accuracy.However,with the continuous development of material systems and modification strategies,researchers have gradually found that D-band center theory is usually effective for large metal particle systems,but for small metal particle systems or semiconductors,such as single atom systems,the opposite conclusion to the D-band center theory is often obtained.To solve the issue above,here we propose a bonding and anti-bonding orbitals stable electron intensity difference(BASED)theory for surface chemistry.The newly-proposed BASED theory can not only successfully explain the abnormal phenomena of D-band center theory,but also exhibits a higher accuracy for prediction of adsorption energy and bond length of intermediates on active sites.Importantly,a new phenomenon of the spin transition state in the adsorption process is observed based on the BASED theory,where the active center atom usually yields an unstable high spin transition state to enhance its adsorption capability in the adsorption process of intermediates when their distance is about 2.5Å.In short,the BASED theory can be considered as a general principle to understand catalytic mechanism of intermediates on surfaces.

Interfacial chemistry of anode/electrolyte interface for rechargeable magnesium batteries

Rechargeable magnesium batteries(RMBs),as a low-cost,high-safety and high-energy storage technology,have attracted tremendous attention in large-scale energy storage applications.However,the key anode/electrolyte interfacial issues,including surface passivation,uneven Mg plating/stripping,and pulverization after cycling still result in a large overpotential,short cycling life,poor power density,and possible safety hazards of cells,severely impeding the commercial development of RMBs.In this review,a concise overview of recently advanced strategies to address these anode/electroyte interfacial issues is systematically classified and summarized.The design of magnesiophilic substrates,construction of artificial SEI layers,and modification of electrolyte are important and effective strategies to improve the uniformity/kinetics of Mg plating/stripping and achieve the stable anode/electrolyte interface.The key opportunities and challenges in this field are advisedly put forward,and the insights into future directions for stabilizing Mg metal anodes and the anode/electrolyte interface are highlighted.This review provides important references fordeveloping the high-performance and high-safety RMBs.

Designing ultrastable P2/O3-type layered oxides for sodium ion batteries by regulating Na distribution and oxygen redox chemistry

P2/O3-type Ni/Mn-based layered oxides are promising cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries(SIBs)owing to their high energy density.However,exploring effective ways to enhance the synergy between the P2 and 03 phases remains a necessity.Herein,we design a P2/O3-type Na_(0.76)Ni_(0.31)Zn_(0.07)Mn_(0.50)Ti_(0.12)0_(2)(NNZMT)with high chemical/electrochemical stability by enhancing the coupling between the two phases.For the first time,a unique Na*extraction is observed from a Na-rich O3 phase by a Na-poor P2 phase and systematically investigated.This process is facilitated by Zn^(2+)/Ti^(4+)dual doping and calcination condition regulation,allowing a higher Na*content in the P2 phase with larger Na^(+)transport channels and enhancing Na transport kinetics.Because of reduced Na^(+)in the O3 phase,which increases the difficulty of H^(+)/Na^(+) exchange,the hydrostability of the O3 phase in NNZMT is considerably improved.Furthermore,Zn^(2+)/Ti^(4+)presence in NNZMT synergistically regulates oxygen redox chemistry,which effectively suppresses O_(2)/CO_(2) gas release and electrolyte decomposition,and completely inhibits phase transitions above 4.0 V.As a result,NNZMT achieves a high discharge capacity of 144.8 mA h g^(-1) with a median voltage of 3.42 V at 20 mA g^(-1) and exhibits excellent cycling performance with a capacity retention of 77.3% for 1000 cycles at 2000 mA g^(-1).This study provides an effective strategy and new insights into the design of high-performance layered-oxide cathode materials with enhanced structure/interface stability forSIBs.

Discharge plasma for prebiotic chemistry: Pathways to life’s building blocks

Discharge plasmas, recognized as unique platforms for investigating the origins of chemical life, have garnered extensive interest for their potential to simulate prebiotic conditions. This paper embarks on a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in the plasma-enabled synthesis of life’s building blocks, charting the complex environmental parameters believed to have surrounded life’s inception. This discussion elaborates on the fundamental mechanisms of discharge plasmas and their likely role in fostering conditions necessary for the origin of life on early Earth. We consider a variety of chemical reactions facilitated by plasma, specifically the synthesis of vital organic molecules - amino acids, nucleobases, sugars, and lipids. Further, we delve into the impact of plasmas on prebiotic chemical evolution. We expect this review to open new horizons for future investigations in plasma-related prebiotic chemistry that could offer valuable insights for unraveling the mysteries of life's origin.

Defect chemistry engineering of Ga-doped garnet electrolyte with high stability for solid-state lithium metal batteries

Ga-doped Li_(7)La_(3)Zr_(2)O_(12)(Ga-LLZO)has long been considered as a promising garnet-type electrolyte candidate for all-solid-state lithium metal batteries(ASSLBs)due to its high room temperature ionic conductivity.However,the typical synthesis of Ga-LLZO is usually accompanied by the formation of undesired LiGaO_(2) impurity phase that causes severe instability of the electrolyte in contact with molten Li metal during half/full cell assembly.In this study,we show that by simply engineering the defect chemistry of Ga-LLZO,namely,the lithium deficiency level,LiGaO_(2) impurity phase is effectively inhibited in the final synthetic product.Consequently,defect chemistry engineered Ga-LLZO exhibits excellent electrochemical stability against lithium metal,while its high room temperature ionic conductivity(~1.9×10^(-3)S·cm^(-1))is well reserved.The assembled Li/Ga-LLZO/Li symmetric cell has a superior critical current density of 0.9 mA·cm^(-2),and cycles stably for 500 hours at a current density of 0.3 mA·cm^(-2).This research facilitates the potential commercial applications of high performance Ga-LLZO solid electrolytes in ASSLBs.

Exploration of Ideological and Political Materials for the Course of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry for Environmental and Ecological Engineering Major

Integrating ideological and political theories teaching into the whole process of classroom teaching construction is a new requirement for implementing the fundamental task of cultivating people by virtue and playing the role of collaborative education.In order to realize the seamless integration of inorganic and analytical chemistry courses and ideological and political education,this paper summarizes the current situation of ideological and political research on inorganic and analytical chemistry courses in three major databases in China(VIP,CNKI and Wanfang),and sorts out the knowledge points,ideological and political elements and educational goals according to the content of the course chapters,to provide a basic guarantee for the ideological and political education construction of the course.

Identified the hydrochemical and the sulfur cycle process in subsidence area of Pingyu mining area using multi-isotopes combined with hydrochemistry methods

Groundwater serves as an important water source for residents in and around mining areas.To achieve scientific planning and efficient utilization of water resources in mining areas,it is essential to figure out the chemical formation process and the ground water sulfur cycle that transpire after the coal mining activities.Based on studies of hydrochemistry and D,^(18)O-H_(2)O,^(34)S-SO_(4)isotopes,this study applied principal component analysis,ion ratio and other methods in its attempts to reveal the hydrogeochemical action and sulfur cycle in the subsidence area of Pingyu mining area.The study discovered that,in the studied area,precipitation provides the major supply of groundwater and the main water chemistry effects are dominated by oxidation dissolution of sulfide minerals as well as the dissolution of carbonate and silicate rocks.The sulfate in groundwater primarily originates from oxidation and dissolution of sulfide minerals in coal-bearing strata and human activities.The mixed sulfate formed by the oxidation of sulfide minerals and by human activities continuously recharges the groundwater,promoting the dissolution of carbonate rock and silicate rock in the process.

Teaching Status and Teaching Reform Ideas of Physical Chemistry Experiments for Food Quality and Safety Major

Physical chemistry experiments are an important branch of chemical experiments.In view of problems and shortcomings in physical chemistry experiment teaching of food quality and safety major in Chengdu University,the teaching methods of physical chemistry experiment course of food quality and safety major were explored and practiced,aiming to arouse students enthusiasm for experiments and cultivate their ability of independent learning,comprehensive thinking and independent problem solving.

Intrinsic Self-Healing Chemistry for Next-Generation Flexible Energy Storage Devices

The booming wearable/portable electronic devices industry has stimulated the progress of supporting flexible energy storage devices.Excellent performance of flexible devices not only requires the component units of each device to maintain the original performance under external forces,but also demands the overall device to be flexible in response to external fields.However,flexible energy storage devices inevitably occur mechanical damages(extrusion,impact,vibration)/electrical damages(overcharge,over-discharge,external short circuit)during longterm complex deformation conditions,causing serious performance degradation and safety risks.Inspired by the healing phenomenon of nature,endowing energy storage devices with self-healing capability has become a promising strategy to effectively improve the durability and functionality of devices.Herein,this review systematically summarizes the latest progress in intrinsic self-healing chemistry for energy storage devices.Firstly,the main intrinsic self-healing mechanism is introduced.Then,the research situation of electrodes,electrolytes,artificial interface layers and integrated devices based on intrinsic self-healing and advanced characterization technology is reviewed.Finally,the current challenges and perspective are provided.We believe this critical review will contribute to the development of intrinsic self-healing chemistry in the flexible energy storage field.

Integrated interface configuration by in-situ interface chemistry enabling uniform lithium deposition in all-solid-state lithium metal batteries

All-solid-state lithium metal batteries(ASSLMBs)are considered as one of the ultimate goals for the development of energy storage systems due to their high energy density and high safety.However,the mismatching of interface transport kinetics as well as interfacial instability induces the growth of lithium dendrite and thus,leads to severe degradation of battery electrochemical performances.Herein,an integrated interface configuration(IIC)consisting of in-situ generated Li I interphase and Li-Ag alloy anode is proposed through in-situ interface chemistry.The IIC is capable of not only regulating charge transport kinetics but also synchronously stabilizing the lithium/electrolyte interface,thereby achieving uniform lithium platting.Therefore,Li||Li symmetric cells with IIC achieve a critical current density of up to 1.6 mA cm^(-2)and achieve stable cycling over 1600 hours at a high current density of 0.5 mA cm^(-2).Moreover,a high discharge capacity of 140.1 mA h g-1at 0.1 C is also obtained for the Li(Ni_(0.6)Co_(0.2)Mn_(0.2))O_(2)(NCM622)full battery with a capacity retention of 65.6%after 300 cycles.This work provides an effective method to synergistically regulate the interface transport kinetics and inhibit lithium dendrite growth for high-performance ASSLMBs.

Single-atom electrocatalysts for lithium-sulfur chemistry:Design principle,mechanism,and outlook

Lithium-sulfur batteries(LSBs)have been regarded as one of the promising candidates for the next-generation“lithium-ion battery beyond”owing to their high energy density and due to the low cost of sulfur.However,the main obstacles encountered in the commercial implementation of LSBs are the notorious shuttle effect,retarded sulfur redox kinetics,and uncontrolled dendrite growth.Accordingly,single-atom catalysts(SACs),which have ultrahigh catalytic efficiency,tunable coordination configuration,and light weight,have shown huge potential in the field of LSBs to date.This review summarizes the recent research progress of SACs applied as multifunctional components in LSBs.The design principles and typical synthetic strategies of SACs toward effective Li–S chemistry as well as the working mechanism promoting sulfur conversion reactions,inhibiting the lithium polysulfide shuttle effect,and regulating Li+nucleation are comprehensively illustrated.Potential future directions in terms of research on SACs for the realization of commercially viable LSBs are also outlined.

Recent Progress in Atmospheric Chemistry Research in China: Establishing a Theoretical Framework for the “Air Pollution Complex”

Atmospheric chemistry research has been growing rapidly in China in the last 25 years since the concept of the“air pollution complex”was first proposed by Professor Xiaoyan TANG in 1997.For papers published in 2021 on air pollution(only papers included in the Web of Science Core Collection database were considered),more than 24000 papers were authored or co-authored by scientists working in China.In this paper,we review a limited number of representative and significant studies on atmospheric chemistry in China in the last few years,including studies on(1)sources and emission inventories,(2)atmospheric chemical processes,(3)interactions of air pollution with meteorology,weather and climate,(4)interactions between the biosphere and atmosphere,and(5)data assimilation.The intention was not to provide a complete review of all progress made in the last few years,but rather to serve as a starting point for learning more about atmospheric chemistry research in China.The advances reviewed in this paper have enabled a theoretical framework for the air pollution complex to be established,provided robust scientific support to highly successful air pollution control policies in China,and created great opportunities in education,training,and career development for many graduate students and young scientists.This paper further highlights that developing and low-income countries that are heavily affected by air pollution can benefit from these research advances,whilst at the same time acknowledging that many challenges and opportunities still remain in atmospheric chemistry research in China,to hopefully be addressed over the next few decades.

Tunable vacancy defect chemistry on free-standing carbon cathode for lithium-sulfur batteries

The defect chemistry is successfully modulated on free-standing and binder-free carbon cathodes for highly efficient Li-S redox reactions.Such rationally regulated defect engineering realizes the synchronization of ion/electron-conductive and defect-rich networks on the threedimension carbon cathode,leading to its tunable activity for both relieving the shuttle phenomenon and accelerating the sulfur redox reaction kinetics.As expected,the defective carbon cathode harvests a high rate capacity of 1217.8 mAh g^(-1)at 0.2 C and a superior capacity retention of61.7%at 2 C after 500 cycles.Even under the sulfur mass loading of 11.1 mg cm^(-2),the defective cathode still holds a remarkable areal capacity of 8.5 mAh cm^(-2).

Depth profiling of arsenian pyrite in Carlin-type ores through wet chemistry

Enrichment of As and Au at the overgrowth rims of arsenian pyrite is a distinctive feature of Carlin-type gold ores.Revealing distribution of such key elements in high resolution is of fundamental importance yet often proves challenging.In this study,repeated non-oxidative acid etching of ore samples from Shuiyindong gold deposit was applied to enable elemental depth profiling of goldbearing arsenian pyrite grains.ICP-OES and AAS were used to determine the dissolved Fe,As,and Au concentrations in each of the etching solutions,and XPS was carried out to exam the etched mineral surfaces.In contrast to conventional ion beam etching that may cause substantial sample damage,our acid etching method does not seem to significantly alter the composition and chemical state of the samples.The etched depths directly converted from the measured elemental concentrations can reproducibly reach a very high resolution of~1 nm,and can be conveniently controlled through varying the etching time.While the Fe and As depth profiles consistently reflect the surface oxidation property of arsenian pyrite,the Au profile displaying an obvious upward trend reveals the ore fluid evolution at the late stage of mineralization.Based on our experimental results,we demonstrate that our wet chemistry method is capable of effective depth profiling of gold ore and perhaps other geological samples,with advantages surpassing many instrumental techniques including negligible sample damage,nanoscale resolution as well as isotropic etching.

Simultaneous regulation on coordination environment and interfacial chemistry via taurine for stabilized Zn metal anode

Aqueous Zn-ion batteries(AZIBs)are the potential options for the next-generation energy storage scenarios due to the cost effectiveness and intrinsic safety.Nevertheless,the industrial application of AZIBs is still impeded by a series of parasitic reactions and dendrites at zinc anodes.In this study,taurine(TAU)is used in electrolyte to simultaneously optimize the coordination condition of the ZnSO4electrolyte and interfacial chemistry at the anode.TAU can preferentially adsorb with the zinc metal and induce an in situ stable and protective interface on the anode,which would avoid the connection between H_(2)O and the zinc metal and promote the even deposition of Zn^(2+).The resulting Zn//Zn batteries achieve more than 3000 hours long cyclic lifespan under 1 mA cm^(-2)and an impressive cumulative capacity at 5 mA cm^(-2).Moreover,Zn//Cu batteries can realize a reversible plating/stripping process over 2,400cycles,with a desirable coulombic efficiency of 99.75%(1 mA cm^(-2)).Additionally,the additive endows Zn//NH_(4)V_(4)O_(10)batteries with more stable cyclic performance and ultrafast rate capability.These capabilities can promote the industrial application of AZIBs.

Petrographical and mineral chemistry evidence to delineate the source/sources of the Central Indian Ocean Basin pumices

We present data pertaining to mineral assemblages and composition of the Central Indian Ocean Basin(CIOB)pumices.Eight groups of pumices were identified considering the presence of phenocrysts of plagioclase,clinopyroxene,orthopyroxene,hornblende and biotite together with the occurrence of quartz and glass.Pigeonite,fayalite and ulvospinelare reported for the first time from these pumices.In the eight groups,the modal percentage of the constituents are phenocrysts 3%to 19%(avg 9.6%),silicic glass 33%to 54%(avg 43%)and the rest is vesicles.Based on the above factors we have identified the possible sources of the CIOB pumices.The mineral compositions of plagioclase,pyroxenes,and biotite of the CIOB pumices were compared with those of Krakatau and Toba.Most of the plagioclase and pyroxene compositions resemble the Haranggoal Dacite Tuff of Toba and Krakatau.Considering the mineral assemblages and compositions,there are pumices which do not correlate to any of the above eruptions and are probably from yet unidentified source/sources.These sources could either be from nearby terrestrial volcanoes or intraplate seamounts present in the CIOB.In a global context,it is viable that petrological characteristics could be used as initial criteria to determine the source of pumices that occur at abyssal depths in the world ocean.

Rechargeable Na-MnO_(2) battery with modified cell chemistry

High voltage,high energy density,nominal cycle life,and low cost are the most critical requirements of rechargeable batteries for their widespread energy storage applications in electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies.Na-MnO_(2) battery could be a low-cost contender,but it suffers extensively from its low cell voltage and poor rechargeability.In this study,we modified the conventional cell structure of Na-MnO_(2) battery and established altered cell chemistry through a hybrid electrochemical process consisting of Na striping/plating at the anode and Zn^(2+) insertion/de-insertion along with MnO_(2) dissolution/deposition at the cathode.After the modification,Na-MnO_(2) battery exhibits a discharge capacity of 267.10 mA h/g and a cell voltage of 3.30 V(vs.Na/Na^(+)),resulting in a high specific energy density of 881.43 Wh/kg.After 300 cycles,the battery retains 98% of its first-cycle discharge capacity with100% coulombic efficiency.Besides,Na metal-free battery assembled using sodium biphenyl as a safer anode also delivers an excellent energy density of 810.0 Wh/kg.This work could provide a feasible method to develop an advanced Na-MnO_(2) battery for real-time energy storage applications.

The medicinal chemistry of Urtica dioica L.:from preliminary evidence to clinical studies supporting its neuroprotective activity

Urtica dioica is a perennial herb from the family of Urticaceae that is commonly known as stinging nettle.This plant is widespread in Europe,Africa,America,and a part of Asia,as it adapts to different environments and climatic condi-tions.The leaves,stalk,and bark of U.dioica found applications in the field of nutrition,cosmetics,textile,pest control and pharmacology.In this connection,bioactive chemical constituents such as flavonoids,phenolic acids,amino acids,carotenoids,and fatty acids have been isolated from the plant.With this review,we aim at providing an updated and comprehensive overview of the contributions in literature reporting computational,in vitro,pre-clinical and clini-cal data supporting the therapeutic applications of U.dioica.Experimental evidence shows that U.dioica constituents and extracts can provide neuroprotective effects by acting through a combination of different molecular mecha-nisms,that are discussed in the review.These findings could lay the basis for the identification and design of more effective tools against neurodegenerative diseases.