Volume 12, (2020)

• Highly Thermo-Conductive Three-Dimensional Graphene Aqueous Medium

  Zheng Bo1, 2, Chongyan Ying1, 2, Huachao Yang1, 2, *, Shenghao Wu1, 2, Jinyuan Yang1, 2, Jing Kong1, 2, Shiling Yang1, 2, Yanguang Zhou3, Jianhua Yan1, Kefa Cen1	Abstract | Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 138
  First Online: 01 July 2020 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-020-00478-2

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    a, b Schematic illustration of conventional aqueous medium and our 3D graphene system. c-e Top- and cross-view SEM images and TEM image of the skeleton of 3D-GS sample. f-g Top- and cross-view SEM images of graphene nanofins on the skeleton surface of 3D-GS-CBF sample. The inset in f denotes the SEM image of 3D-GS-CBF. h HRTEM image of the conjunction of nanofin and skeleton
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    a Thermal conductivity k of GN, 3D-GS and 3D-GS-CBF aqueous mediums at the same volume ratio. b Thermal conductivity k of 3D-GS-CBF aqueous medium as a function of filler content. c Temperature dependence of thermal conductivity for 3D-GS-CBF aqueous medium. d Stability of 3D-GS-CBF (upper) and conventional graphene structures from chemical methods (down) in water. e Optical images of the apparent contact angle changes on 3D-GS-CBF surface. Comparison of f thermal conductivity and g TCEE between our work and prior studies (details can be found in Table S1)
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    a 1D and b 2D temperature distribution at the graphene-water interface. c VDOS of graphene and water at the interface. d Averaged temperature of the GN and 3D-GS aqueous medium. e Average temperature of 3D-GS-CBF and 3D-GS aqueous mediums during the finite element method simulation
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    a Schematic of experimental setup for solar thermal conversion application. The apparatus includes a solar simulator, an electronic balance, thermocouples and data acquisition system. The inset denotes the photo of apparatus. b Temperature of Au, GN and 3D-GS-CBF aqueous mediums as a function of illumination time at 1 sun. c Comparison of solar vapor generation efficiency between our work and previous studies. d Schematic of experimental setup for LED thermal management application. Water flows through the block from inlet to outlet. e Photos of devices, showing the electric current and water flow. f Surface temperature of LEDs as a function of time for water, commercial coolant and 3D-GS-CBF aqueous mediums. g Water temperature at the inlet and outlet of LEDs as a function of time

• Soft Mesoporous Organosilica Nanoplatforms Improve Blood Circulation, Tumor Accumulation/Penetration, and Photodynamic Efficacy

  Xin Peng1, #, Kun Chen3, #, Wanhua Liu1, * , Xiongfeng Cao4, Mengru Wang1, Jun Tao3, Ying Tian2, Lei Bao5, Guangming Lu2, *, Zhaogang Teng2, 3, *	Abstract | Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 137
  First Online: 30 June 2020 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-020-00465-7

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    Schematic of the soft nanoparticles as effective anticancer plateforms. The soft nanoplatforms exhibit enhanced tumour accumulation, extravasation from tumour vessels and penetration into deep tumour parenchyma and more efficient anti-tumor activity due to their softness and deformability compared with their stiff counterparts
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    a, b TEM and c SEM images of the MONs-HA-Cy5.5. d, e TEM and f SEM images of the SMONs-HA-Cy5.5. g STEM-HAADF image and h, i EDX elemental mapping images of the SMONs-HA-Cy5.5. Red, blue, yellow, and green indicate the elements C, Si, S, and O, respectively. Scale bars, 200 nm
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    a Hydrodynamic diameter and b zeta potential of the MONs, MONs-NH2, MONs-HA, and SMONs-HA. c FTIR spectrum of the MONs, HA, MONs-HA, and SMONs-HA. d 29Si MAS NMR spectra, e nitrogen sorption isotherms, f pore-size distribution curves, g, h AFM images and i Young’s modulus of the MONs-HA-Cy5.5 and SMONs-HA-Cy5.5. Scale bars, 100 nm
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    Cellular uptake. a CLSM images and b relative fluorescence intensity analysis of MCF-7 cells incubated with the MONs-HA-Cy5.5 and SMONs-HA-Cy5.5 for 6 h. Scale bars, 25 µm. c Flow cytometry, d relative cellular uptake efficiency and e mean fluorescence intensity of MCF-7 cells incubated with the MONs-HA-Cy5.5 and SMONs-HA-Cy5.5 for 1, 3, 6 h
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    Blood circulation and tumor accumulation. a Concentrations of Si in the blood at different time intervals after injection of MONs-HA-Cy5.5 and SMONs-HA-Cy5.5. b The corresponding clearance (CL), c the terminal phase half-life(t1/2), d the mean residence time (MRT) and e blood concentration versus time curve (AUC) of MONs-HA-Cy5.5 and SMONs-HA-Cy5.5 by fitting the circulation profile. f Near-infrared fluorescence (NIFR) imaging and g quantification of the fluorescence intensity in the major organ and tumor from MCF-7 bearing mice (n = 3) at post-24 h after the administration of the SMONs-HA-Cy5.5 or MONs-HA-Cy5.5. ***P < 0.001
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    Penetrating behavior. a CLSM Z-stack scanning images and b corresponding fluorescence intensity of MCF-7 multicellular spheroids (MCSs) upon 4 h incubation with the MONs-HA-Cy5.5 and SMONs-HA-Cy5.5. Scale bars, 100 µm. c Gray value profile of MCSs along the arrow region at the Z-axis distance of 50 µm. d CLSM images of tumor slices from mice at post-24 h injection. Red and green signals were from anti-CD31 stained blood vessels and Cy5.5, respectively. Scale bars, 25 µm. e Relative Cy5.5 fluorescence intensities of intravascular and extravascular areas. f The grey value profile of green signal of extravascular areas (indicated by the yellow dashed lines).
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    PDT efficacy. a Fluorescence intensity of DCF in MCF-7 cells, which incubated with different agents and then received laser irradiation (660 nm, 0.5 W cm−2, 5 min), measured by a microplate reader. b Viability of MCF-7 cells co-incubated with different concentrations of Ce6, MONs-HA-Ce6, SMONs-HA-Ce6 for 24 h and then irradiated with laser (660 nm, 0.5 W cm-2) for 5 min. c Tumor growth curves of different groups (n = 5 mice per group). d Tumor photographs and e tumor weights at the end point after various treatments. f The body weights of MCF-7 tumor bearing mice during treatments. g H&E staining images of tissue sections from tumors of different groups at 24 h after irradiation. Scale bars, 100 µm. ***P < 0.001. I: PBS group; II MONs-HA-Ce6 group; III: SMONs-HA-Ce6 group; IV: PBS + laser group; V: free Ce6 + laser group; VI: MONs-HA-Ce6 + laser group; VII: SMONs-HA-Ce6 + laser group

• Electron-Induced Perpendicular Graphene Sheets Embedded Porous Carbon Film for Flexible Touch Sensors

  Sicheng Chen1, Yunfei Wang1, Lei Yang1, *, Fouad Karouta2, Kun Sun1	Abstract | Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 136
  First Online: 25 June 2020 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-020-00480-8

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    a Schematic illustration for the flexible EIPG electrode using spin coating and lift-off methodology. b Synthesizes process of perpendicular orientation of graphene sheets. c Field-emission scanning electron micrographs of AAO substrate and d deposited porous EIPG carbon film. e Raman spectrum of deposited EIPG electrode. f The HRTEM image of the plan-view of the EIPG electrode and g cross section of the EIPG electrode
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    a Schematic view of the active layers of the EIPG composite-based touch sensor. b Cross section of the layer structure of EIPG electrodes. c Conductive properties as a function of various electrodes and the inset figure shows in-plane transportation of electrons in perpendicular graphene flakes. d Relative resistance versus changing bending cycles and in the inset figure versus bending radius. e Photographs of assembling sensor device (4 cm2) under folding, twisting and stretching
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    Pressure-sensing performance of the EIPG touch sensor. a Relative capacitance (ΔC/C) versus normal pressure with various electrode types. b The instant response of the EIPG touch sensor shows response times of 66 ms. c Transient response to the load and step-unload process. d Transient response of the sensor when placing and removing a paper or a polytetrafluoroethylene sheet on the substrate, corresponding to a pressure of only 50 and 5 Pa, respectively. e ΔC/C versus time under applied pressure of three cycles. f Durability testing under external pressure of 1.5 kPa
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    Application of the wearable sensor. a Capacitance response plot obtained from the sensor when wrist bents with different angles. b Capacitance response of the sensor on the bloodstream in the wrist and the palm. c Transient response of the flexible sensor to speaking vibrations under the pronunciation of “haw,” “cherry,” and “banana”
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    a Capacitance change under external pressure applied (slowly approach, touch and leave) by bare hand (contact I), with nitrile rubber on (contact II) and metallic mechanical hand (contact III), respectively. b Mechanism for capacitance decrease when adjacent object approaches (i) charges distribution on capacitance without adjacent object (ii) fixed charges induced by adjacent objects. c Dual-parameter function according to short-circuit current generated by the single-electrode connection method

• A Novel Strategy of In Situ Trimerization of Cyano Groups Between the Ti3C2Tx (MXene) Interlayers for High-Energy and High-Power Sodium-Ion Capacitors

  Siyang Liu1, Fangyuan Hu1, *, Wenlong Shao2, Wenshu Zhang1, Tianpeng Zhang1, Ce Song3, Man Yao1, Hao Huang1, Xigao Jian1, 2, 3, *	Abstract | Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 135
  First Online: 25 June 2020 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-020-00473-7

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    a Schematic illustration of the synthesis for the Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM. b FTIR spectra of Na-dca, Ti3C2Tx and Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM; insert shows the thermal trimerization process of C2N3− to C6N93−. Peak labels correspond to (●) 2231 cm–1 vsC−N+ vasC−N, (♦) 2286 cm–1 vsC≡N and 2180 cm–1 vasC≡N, (♣) 1398 and 1516 cm–1 vasRing N+ vsRing N. c XRD patterns of Ti3C2Tx and Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM; insert shows the magnification of XRD patterns. Peak labels correspond to (●) amorphous carbon and (▲) Ti3C2Tx
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    Characterization of Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM and Ti3C2Tx. a High-resolution Ti 2p XPS spectra of Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM (top) and Ti3C2Tx (bottom). b High-resolution N 1s XPS spectra of Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM (top) and Ti3C2Tx (bottom); inserts in bottom shows the schematic illustration of N functional groups. c Pore size distributions of Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM and Ti3C2Tx; insert shows the nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherms. d Top-view SEM image of Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM. HR-TEM images of e Ti3C2Tx and f Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM. g STEM image of Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM and the corresponding elemental mapping images of h C, i Ti, j O, k N and l Na
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    Electrochemical performance and kinetic analysis of Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM and Ti3C2Tx for Na-ion storage. a CV curves of Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM at different scan rates from 0.1 to 1 mV s−1. b Charge-discharge curves of the 1st cycle and the 20th cycle at the current density of 20 mA g−1. c Rate performance at various current densities from 20 mA g−1 to 5000 mA g−1. d Long-term cycling performance and the coulombic efficiency at the current density of 100 mA g−1. e Nyquist plots of Ti3C2Tx−1, Ti3C2Tx−50, Ti3C2Tx−200 and Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM−1, Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM−50, Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM−200. f The determination of the b values at cathodic and anodic peaks regimes of the Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM (top) and the Ti3C2Tx (bottom). g The b values of anodic peaks at the different potentials. h Capacitive contribution ratios at various scan rates from 0.1 to 1 mV s−1
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    DFT calculations for the Na-ions storage on the Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM and Ti3C2Tx surface. Top view of an O atom adsorbed on 1 × 1 Ti3C2 surface at a top-site, b bcc-site and c fcc-site. Top view of a Na adsorbs on the most stable site on 3 × 3 surface of d Ti3C2Tx and e Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM. f Diffusion profiles of the Na on Ti3C2Tx and Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM surface in the NEB calculations
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    a Charge storage mechanism of the Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM//AC NICs. b CV curves of Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM//AC NICs based on various anode/cathode ratios (1:1, 1:2, 1:3) at a scan rate of 20 mV s−1. c Ragone plots of the Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM//AC NICs compared with the advanced MXene-based LICs and NICs. d Capacitance retention and coulombic efficiency of the Ti3C2Tx/Na3TCM//AC tested at 4.0 A g−1

• Correction to: A Universal Principle to Accurately Synthesize Atomically Dispersed Metal–N4 Sites for CO2 Electroreduction

  Wanzhen Zheng1,3, Feng Chen2, Qi Zeng1, Zhongjian Li1, Bin Yang1,4, Lecheng Lei1,4, Qinghua Zhang6, Feng He3, Xi‑Lin Wu2,*, Yang Hou1,4,5,*	Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 134
  First Online: 24 June 2020 (Correction)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-020-00463-9

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    a Schematic diagram of synthetic process of SAs–M–N–C. b, c FESEM and TEM images of SAs–Ni–N–C. d XRD patterns of SAs–M–N–C
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    a–d AC HAADF-STEM images of SAs–Ni–N–C, SAs–Fe–N–C, SAs–Co–N–C, and SAs–Cu–N–C. e–h Elemental distribution mapping images from HAADF-HRTEM imaging of SAs–Ni–N–C, SAs–Fe–N–C, SAs–Co–N–C, and SAs–Cu–N–C
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    a High-resolution Ni 2p XPS spectra of SAs–Ni–N–C and Ni–porphyrin. b High-resolution N 1s XPS spectra of SAs–Ni–N–C and N–C. c–e Ni k-edge XANES spectra, Ni k-edge EXAFS spectra in R space, and WT-EXAFS images of SAs–Ni–N–C, Ni foil, and NiO. f, g FTEXAFS fitting results of SAs–Ni–N–C. h Schematic diagram of local geometric structure in SAs–Ni–N–C
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    a–g F.E.s for CO and H2 productions, geometric surface area-normalized partial current density for CO production, Nyquist plot, Tafel slope, double-layer capacitance, and ECSA-normalized partial current density for CO production of SAs–Fe–N–C, SAs–Co–N–C, SAs–Ni–N–C, and SAs–Cu–N–C. h Long-term stability tests of 50 h, CO F.E., and current density from SAs–Ni–N–C-catalyzed CO2ER at − 0.7 V
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    a Schematic diagram of the Zn–CO2 battery equipped with the SAs–Ni–N–C cathode. b, c Charge–discharge voltage curves and discharge and power density curves of the Zn–CO2 battery equipped with SAs–Ni–N–C cathode. d Charge–discharge cyclic curve of Zn–CO2 battery under constant current density of 1.0 mA cm−2. e CO F.E. of Zn–CO2 battery during galvanostatic discharge process. f Photograph of bulbs and homemade LED array lighted by two batteries in series. g Charge polarization curve and J–V curve of solar cell. h Photograph of Zn–CO2 battery charged by solar cell irradiated with natural sunlight

• Bismuth-Based Free-Standing Electrodes for Ambient-Condition Ammonia Production in Neutral Media

  Ying Sun1, 2, Zizhao Deng1, Xi-Ming Song3, Hui Li1, Zihang Huang1, Qin Zhao1, Daming Feng1, Wei Zhang3, Zhaoqing Liu4, Tianyi Ma2, *	Abstract | Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 133
  First Online: 19 June 2020 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-020-00444-y

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    Illustration of the synthesis of Bi2O3/FEG
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    a SEM images of Bi2O3/FEG with the inset showing the high magnification SEM image. b SEM and corresponding elemental (Bi, C, and O) mapping images of Bi2O3/FEG. c HRTEM images of Bi2O3/FEG, the inset shows the TEM image. d Corresponding HRTEM images in the circle area, the inset shows the SAED pattern. e XPS spectra of Bi2O3/FEG and the FEG substrate, insert is the magnified image. f Bi 4f XPS spectrum of Bi2O3/FEG
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    a Schematic reaction cell for ENRR. b Faradic efficiency and NH3 yield rate at various potentials in 0.1 M Na2SO4 electrolyte (determined by the Nessler’s reagent). c Chrono-amperometry results at the corresponding potentials. d FE and NH3 yield rate at various potentials in 0.1 M Na2SO4 electrolyte (determined by ion-selective electrode meter)
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    a FE and NH3 yield rate at various potentials in 0.1 M KOH electrolyte (determined by the Nessler’s reagent). b Chrono-amperometry results at the corresponding potentials. c FE and NH3 yield rate at various potentials in 0.05 M H2SO4 electrolyte (determined by the Nessler’s reagent). d Optimum FE and yield rates of NH3 in different electrolytes (at -0.5 V vs. RHE, determined by the Nessler’s reagent)
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    a FE and NH3 yield rates of Bi2O3/FEG calculated after consecutive recycling electrolysis in N2-saturated 0.1 M K2SO4 solution at -0.5 V (vs. RHE) for 2 h. b 12 h durability test for Bi2O3/FEG toward ENRR at -0.5 V (vs. RHE), insert: the corresponding FE and NH3 yield rate after durability test. c The HRTEM image of Bi2O3/FEG after ENRR. d Bi 4f XPS spectrum of Bi2O3/FEG after ENRR

• Conductive MOFs with Photophysical Properties: Applications and Thin- Film Fabrication

  Zeyu Zhuang1, Dingxin Liu1, *	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 132
  First Online: 19 June 2020 (Review)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-020-00470-w

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    a, b Photoresponse intensities at 20 V (different combinations of b1, b2 and t1, t2 stand for different crystal orientations). c Electronic absorption spectrum of MOF-CoNDI-py-2.
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    a DC current I at a voltage of 2 V under irradiations with light of 640, 530, 455, 400, and 365 nm wavelength. b Current–voltage-curve of the sample in the dark (black spheres) and under irradiation with 455 nm (blue spheres).
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    Comparison of photocurrent time plots of ZnL(DPE)(H2O)·H2O and free H2L ligand.
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    Thermally induced phase transformation of MIL-177.
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    a J-V curve of cell with pure ZnO and POM@MOF(Fe) modified ZnO photoanode. b Mechanism of charge transfer of POM@MOF(Fe).
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    a Luminescence spectra of the three Pb-MOFs. b Relationship among luminescence intensity, halogen atom radius, and distance between ligands in the three Pb-MOFs.
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    a Excitation (dashed lines) and emission (solid lines) spectra of free NDC (blue) and DPTTZ (red) ligands showing the requisite spectral overlap for FRET. b Excitation (dashed black line) and emission spectra of Zn2(NDC)2(DPTTZ) showing exclusively DPTTZ-centric emission regardless of excitation wavelengths (λEx = 320 (blue), 350 (green), and 380 nm (red)).
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    a Inward- and trans-conformations of [Cu6(tppa)(μ3-Br)6]n and [Cu2(tppa)(μ-CN)2]n,. b Emission spectra of free tppa ligand, [Cu6(tppa)(μ3-Br)6]n (2) and [Cu2(tppa)(μ-CN)2]n (3).
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    Modification of H2Bcpi+X– for H4L+Cl–.
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    Excitation (black line) and emission (red line) spectra of a MR-MOF-Eu and b WR-MOF-Eu hybrid materials.
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    Solid-state emission spectrum of {[Eu(L)(H2O)2]·5H2O}n at 254 nm at room temperature.
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    a PXRD pattern of Bio-MOF-1 simulated (black), Bio-MOF activated (brown) & Bio-MOF@RhB activated (green). b TGA profiles of as-made Bio-MOF-1 (blue), RhB (green) & Bio-MOF@RhB (brown).
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    The quenching percentage of [Zn(H2L)(2,2-bipy)]n in DMF of NB, 2-NP, 4-NP, 1,2-DNB, 1,3-DNB, 1,4-DNB, 2,4-DNP, TNP and TNB at excitation of 278 nm.
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    Changes of emission intensities of [CuI(BPDPE)]n with incremental addition of Al3+ (1 mM).
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    Sensing mechanism of Eu(Ln)@bio-MOF-1 composite samples towards O2.
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    Luminescence decay curves of Tb-SA films with and without the addition of Cu2+.
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    The Stern–Völmer plots for PL quenching of Cu‐MOF‐NPs by T3 hormone at different five temperatures.
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    a Photoluminescence enhancement ratio of MOF-74(Zn)-en in the presence of TBBPA (150 μg L-1) at different incubation time. b Calibration curves of photoluminescence enhancement ratios of MOF-74(Zn)-en in the presence of different concentrations of TBBPA (0-400 μg L-1).
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    a PCP-Zn: Structure of pristine MOF before guest molecule introduction. b PCP*-Zn: Structure after guest-molecule-induced structural change, but without guest molecule. c Bz+PCP-Zn: Structure after adsorption of benzene in the MOF. d–f The same structures as a-c with subframeworks colored as blue (subframework 1) and orange (subframework 2) and the hydrogens removed for clarity.
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    The emission (λex = 380 nm) and excitation (λem = 545 nm) spectra of {[Tb(Cmdcp)(H2O)3]2(NO3)2·5H2O}n, as well as the absorption spectra of different metal ions.
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    a Solid-state emission spectra of {[EuxTb1-x(L)(H2O)2]·5H2O}n with different molar ratios of Eu3+ under excitation of 302 nm. b CIE chromaticity diagram of {[EuxTb1-x(L)(H2O)2]·5H2O}n.
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    CIE chromaticity diagram of mixed EuxTb1-x-MOFs with different Eu ratios and excitation wavelengths.
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    CIE chromatic diagram of CDs, mixed-LnMOF, and CDs@Ln-MOF hybrids. CDs-2, CDs-3 and CDs-4 refer to 2, 3, and 4 mL of CDs encapsulated into MOFs, respectively.
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    Dual-emitting pathways in the Ag-doped MOF generating white-light emission.
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    Temperature-dependent PL spectra of CsPbBr3@Eu-BTC in the temperature range of 20-100 °C excited at 339 nm (inset: the CIE (x, y) coordinate diagram of emission colors at various temperatures).
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    a PL emission spectra of C-QDs@UiO-66-(COOH)2 film in the temperature range of 97-297 K. b Emission intensity of the C-QDs@UiO-66-(COOH)2 film as a function of temperature (black squares, left axis) with the fitting curve (red line, R2 = 0.991) and the relative sensitivity curve (blue line, right axis).
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    Reversible fluorescence switching of the BJTU pattern written on the paper at different stages under ambient and 365 nm UV light.
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    Cathodic deposition of Eu-HBPTC thin film.
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    Four phases of anodic deposition: a initial nucleation, b growth of MOF islands, c intergrowth and d crystal detachment.
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    Synthesis of TiO2@MOF nanorod array photoanode through layer by layer method.
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    a Schematic diagram of the solvothermal growth of PPF-11 film. b Cross-sectional-SEM images of solvothermally grown 10 μm thick PPF-11 film on ZnO layer.
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    Scheme of the ultrasonic spray deposition system.

• Water Splitting: From Electrode to Green Energy System

  Xiao Li1, #, Lili Zhao1, #, Jiayuan Yu1, #, Xiaoyan Liu1, Xiaoli Zhang3, Hong Liu1, 2, *, Weijia Zhou1, *	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 131
  First Online: 17 June 2020 (Review)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-020-00469-3

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    Water splitting driven by different green energy systems
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    a Schematic diagram of two-electrode configuration for overall water splitting with NF/T(Ni3S2/MnS-O) as anode and cathode. b Photographs showing the NiCo-nitrides/NiCo2O4/GF||NiCo-nitrides/NiCo2O4/GF couple electrolyzer.
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    a Schematic diagram of conventional alkaline electrolyzer. b Schematic diagram of the formation of the catalyst film. c Schematic diagram of cathode deactivation caused by the deposition of trace metal impurities and the change of the overall voltage in the electrolytic cell.
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    a Schematic diagram for reducing the gap between electrodes by using a zero-gap cell. b Components for the zero-gap cell, including the machined flow field plates, silicone gaskets, mesh electrodes and Zirfon gas separator. c Schematic diagram and d a photograph of an integrated LIG electrolyzer.
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    a Schematic diagram of filtration mesh electrode encapsulated in a single injection assembly. b A photograph of the horizontal filter press DEFT electrolyzer stack, and c a diagram of a cross-section of the electrolyzer stack assembly. d Cross-section of the DEFT electrolyzer stack in a MCFP configuration. e Schematic diagram of the multi-cell system by the E-TAC process.
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    a Schematic diagram of the working principle and b composition of a PEM water electrolysis.
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    a Schematic of the electrocatalytic cell for cathodic HER and anodic hypochlorite production. b Dependence of the FE of hypochlorite with the applied potentials on the cathod and the cell voltage.
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    a Schematic of the dual junction PSC/hematite photoanode tandem cell. b Configuration consisted of Co-Ci/H, 3% Mo:BiVO4 and TiO2/CH3NH3PbI3 tandem cell. c Schematic of the perovskite and CIGS tandem water splitting cell. d The configuration of the PEC-PSC tandem device. e Schematic of the WO3/BiVO4 photoanode tandem configuration. f Scheme of the PEC-DSSC tandem cell.
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    a Schematic diagram of the solar-driven system with a Si solar cell for overall water splitting. b Unassisted water splitting using NCS/NCP/NF as the electrodes and Si solar cells as the light absorber. c Unassisted water splitting by using a combination of an NiFe electrolyzer and Si solar cells. d Schematic diagram of the CIGS absorber connected with the catalyst module by wires. e Schematic diagram of the CIGS electrode connected with a working electrode with deposited catalyst in the electrolyte by wires.
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    a Schematic diagram and b a generalized energy of the tandem PSC for water splitting. c Schematic diagram of the solar-energy-driven overall water splitting device with a PSC. d Configuration of the electrolyzer with the Ni0.5Co0.5P/CP bifunctional electrocatalyst and all-inorganic PSCs under irradiation.
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    a Temperature distributions under 1 sun irradiation of: (i) hot-side and (ii) cold-side of bare generator; (iii) hot-side and (iv) cold-side of CNP-generator. Inserts: temperature statistics of the area in corresponding dotted box. b Schematic of the overall water splitting system driven by 6 series-wound STEG devices. c Production of H2 and O2 by the water splitting system at different time. d The infrared thermal images of Al2O3 ceramic chip (I) and Al2O3 ceramic chip with Ni film (II) and Ni nanosheets/Ni film (III). e Illustration of electrolyzer-TE hybrid device. f H2/O2 production versus time curve of electrolyzer-TE hybrid device with additional 0.7 V applied voltage.
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    a Schematic diagram of a PEC-TE hybrid device. Energy band diagrams of b sole PEC and c a PEC-TE hybrid circuit under illumination depicting the influence of qVTE. d Schematic diagram of the fabricated TENG-TE hybrid energy cell. e Schematic diagram of the self-powered system for water splitting to produce H2. f Produced volume of H2 at different working times.
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    a Schematic diagram of the TENG-driven water splitting system. b The circuit diagram of the splitting system and the structure of disk TENG. c Schematic diagram of the TENG-PEC hybrid cells. d Illustration of simplified energy diagram for n-type semiconductor-based solar water splitting. e Photocurrent of as-prepared Au-decorated TiO2 with different bias.
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    a Schematic diagram of CRF-TENG wind energy harvester driven self-powered water splitting system. b The output voltage and c the output current of the CRF-TENG wind energy harvester with a transformer at different wind speeds. d H2 production volume as a function of the work times. e H2 production rate of the CRF-TENG with transformer at different wind speeds.
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    a Schematic of pyroelectric as an external source for water splitting. b Polarization-electric field loop of PZT sheet and schematic of the surface pyroelectric charges. c H2 evolution from external pyroelectric water splitting with working time from 1 to 6 h, d the amount and evolution rate of H2 and O2 after 6 h detected from the gas chromatography.
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    a Schematic illustration of the EWGS process in comparison to the traditional WGS process. b Schematic diagram of solid/liquid/gas interfaces on the PTFE-decorated Pt surface. c Adsorption of H2O at 25 °C on Pt/C and Pt@CNTs with and without PTFE treatment detected by intelligent gravimetric analyzer. d The rate of H2 production and FE on the cathode at different potentials with the Pt2.7Cu@CNTs and Pt@CNTs as the anode catalysts.

• A Porous Nano-Micro-Composite as a High-Performance Bi-Functional Air Electrode with Remarkable Stability for Rechargeable Zinc-Air Batteries

  Yasir Arafat1, Muhammad Rizwan Azhar1, 2, Yijun Zhong1, Xiaomin Xu1, Moses O. Tadé1, Zongping Shao1, 3, *	Abstract | Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 130
  First Online: 17 June 2020 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-020-00468-4

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    A schematic description of in situ growth of ZIF-67 crystals on BSCF surface and carbonization of prepared sample
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    a, b Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of BCZ1 sample illustrating the ZIF-67 crystals growth on BSCF particles, c magnified image of C-ZIF-67 crystals on BCZ1 and d BCZ2, e Corresponding energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) element mapping of BCZ2, f HRTEM of selected area of BCZ2, insets show the fast Fourier transform (FFT) patterns corresponding to six spots, g TEM image of carbonized-ZIF-67 crystals, h STEM−HAADF image and corresponding elemental mapping of N, Co, and C elements of carbonized ZIF-67 crystals
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    a XPS survey spectrum of BCZ2 composite. b XRD patterns of carbonized ZIF-67, BCZ2 and BCZ4 samples. c N2 adsorption/desorption isotherms of carbonized ZIF-67 and BCZ2 composite. d High resolution deconvoluted XPS spectrum of Co 2p of BCZ2, High resolution deconvoluted XPS spectrum of C 1s of e C-ZIF-67 and f BCZ2 composite. High resolution deconvoluted XPS spectrum of N 1s of g carbonized ZIF-67 h BCZ2 composite. i High resolution deconvoluted XPS spectrum of Fe 2p of BCZ2
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    a ORR and b OER polarization curves of composite samples prepared by physical mixing using different ratio in an oxygen-saturated 0.1 M KOH at a rotating speed of 1600 rpm. c Electron transfer number and percentage of HO2− of BSCF, C-ZIF-67, and BCZ2 composites at various potentials. d Tafel plots, e ORR, and f OER polarization curves of various samples including BCZ2 composite in an oxygen-saturated 0.1 M KOH at a rotating speed of 1600 rpm
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    a Overall polarization curves of BCZ2 and commercial Pt/C and IrO2 in 0.1M KOH. Rechargeable zinc−air battery tests. b galvanostatic charge/discharge test based on BCZ4and c BCZ2 and Pt/C and IrO2 mixture catalysts tested for Cyclic stability at 5 mA cm−2 for 300 h
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    Possible mechanism of OER and ORR and for synergy between C-ZIF-67 and BSCF composite

• One Stone Four Birds: A Novel Liposomal Delivery System Multi-Functionalized with Ginsenoside Rh2 for Tumor Targeting Therapy

  Chao Hong1, Jianming Liang1, 2, Jiaxuan Xia1, Ying Zhu3, Yizhen Guo1, Anni Wang1, Chunyi Lu4, Hongwei Ren1, Chen Chen1, Shiyi Li1, Dan Wang1,5, Huaxing Zhan5, Jianxin Wang1, 6, *	Abstract | Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 129
  First Online: 16 June 2020 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-020-00472-8

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    Rational design of a multifunctional Rh2-lipo for tumor targeting therapy. a Chemical structure of cholesterol and ginsenoside. b In Rh2-lipo, cholesterol was substituted by Rh2, which works as membrane stabilizer, long circulating stealther, targeting ligand of GLUT and chemotherapy adjuvant at the same time, empowering liposome with multiple functions including long circulation, active targeting, TME remodeling and tumor cell killing capacity
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    Rh2 worked as a membrane stabilizer, which keep the stability of liposomes. a Order parameter S of 5-DSA and 16-DSA measured as a function of cholesterol (Chol) or Rh2 concentration. b Isotropic hyperfine coupling constant a0 of 5-DSA and 16-DSA measured as a function of Chol or Rh2 concentration. c Stability of two blank liposomal formulations kept in 4 °C conditions monitored by dynamic light scattering (DLS) (n = 3; mean ± SD). d Size distribution of PTX loaded C-lipo and Rh2-lipo was examined with DLS and TEM. e Stability of two PTX loaded liposome formulations kept in 4 °C conditions monitored by DLS (n = 3; mean ± SD). f Drug leakage profiles of PTX loaded C-lipo and Rh2-lipo (n = 3; mean ± SD)
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    Rh2 worked as a long circulating stealther, which specifically prolonged circulation behavior of liposomes. a Blood circulation profiles of C-lipo, PEG-C-lipo and Rh2-lipo (n = 3; mean ± SD). b Representative SDS-PAGE gel of protein coronas obtained from three liposomes following one-hour incubation with plasma. c Classification of protein corona components according to their function in biological processes and the protein number of each type (n = 2). d Heat map of the most abundant proteins in the protein corona. Only those proteins that constitute at least 1% of the protein corona on one of the liposomes are shown
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    Rh2 worked as an active targeting ligand, which enhanced liposomes to accumulate in tumor by the interaction with GLUT. a Biodistribution of the DID-labeled C-lipo and Rh2-lipo after intravenous injection in 4T1 tumor bearing mice. b Fluorescence images of excised tumors at 24 h. c Fluorescence intensity in tumors from different groups (n = 4; mean ± SD). ***P < 0.001. d Fluorescent images of dissected organs of mice sacrificed 24 h. e Cellular uptake of FAM-labeled Rh2-lipo and its competition with glucose using flow cytometry analysis. f Ratio of the relative fluorescence intensity of cellular uptake from different groups (n = 3; mean ± SD). ***P < 0.001
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    a Cytotoxicity of different groups against 4T1 cells (n = 4, mean ± SD). b IC 50 values of different PTX formulations. **P < 0.01 and ***P < 0.001. c Representative scatter plots of Annexin V/PI analysis of 4T1 cells after drug treatments. d Percentage of cells with early, late and complete apoptosis (n = 3; mean ± SD). *P < 0.05, **P < 0.01 and ***P < 0.001
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    Rh2 worked as a chemotherapy adjuvant, which suppressed tumor growth and remodeled structure of TME. a 4T1-orthotopic tumor growth curve during PTX loaded Rh2-lipo treatments (n = 6; mean ± SD). *P < 0.05, **P < 0.01 and ***P < 0.001. b Body weight of 4T1-orthotopic tumor model mice treated by different formulations (n = 6; mean ± SD). c Blood vessels in 4T1 tumors, marked with CD31 antibody (green), were normalized in structure and reduced in expression after treatment; TAFs in tumors, marked with α-SMA antibody (red), were significantly decreased after treatment; Collagen fibers, marked with Masson's Trichrome, were significantly decreased after treatment. Scale bar = 100 μm. *P < 0.05, **P < 0.01 and ***P < 0.001, (n = 3; mean ± SD)
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    Rh2 worked as a chemotherapy adjuvant, which reversed immunosuppressive TME. a Relative abundance of CD4+, CD8+ cells in tumor tissues were detected by flow cytometry. b Flow cytometry gating and histograms analysis of CD11b+ /Gr-1+ MDSC cells in tumors. Double positive cells contain two populations, including Gr-1highCD11b+ granulocytic (G-MDSC) and Gr-1intCD11b+ monocytic (M-MDSC) MDSC subsets. c Flow cytometry gating and histogram analysis of FoxP3+ T regulatory cells in tumors. d, e The percentages of TAM populations with specific macrophage markers M1-type (CD11b+/F4/80+/CD86+) and M2-type (CD11b+/F4/80+/ CD206+) in tumor tissues were detected by flow cytometry. f, g Tumor cytokine IL6 and IL10 level were detected by using RT-PCR. *P < 0.05, **P < 0.01 and ***P < 0.001, (n = 3; mean ± SD)

Volume 11 (2019)

• Recent Progress on Engineering Highly Efficient Porous Semiconductor Photocatalysts Derived from Metal–Organic Frameworks

  Wenwen Zhan1, Liming Sun1, Xiguang Han1,*	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2019) 11: 1
  First Online: 08 January 2019 (Review)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-018-0235-z

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    Timeline of the important breakthroughs in the fabrication of MOF-derived photocatalysts for various reactions
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    a Schematic illustration of MOF-templated synthesis of Fe2O3@TiO2 and its use for photocatalytic hydrogen production after deposition of Pt particles; high-resolution TEM images of Fe2O3@TiO2, both b as-synthesized and c after Pt particles have been deposited. The scale bars represent 10 nm; d H2 produced by Fe2O3@TiO2 at various times over 48 h under visible-light illumination. The inset shows the amount of H2 produced over this period.
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    a–c TEM and HRTEM images of PHIC. d STEM image and EDXS elemental mapping of C, O, and In. e mass-normalized H2 yield rates over PHIC, PHI, and commercial In2O3 under sunlight illumination. f photocurrent densities of PHIC, PHI, and commercial In2O3 under non-illuminated (i.e., dark) and illuminated (i.e., light) conditions. g Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy Nyquist plots of PHIC, PHI, and commercial In2O3. h mass-normalized H2 yield for 7 h over commercial In2O3, PHI, commercial In2O3 with Pt, PHI with Pt, and PHIC without Pt under simulated sunlight illumination.
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    a Schematic illustration of the synthesis of hierarchically porous metal oxides/sulfides templated by MOFs by a nanocasting process. b Photocurrent response and c EIS Nyquist plots for bulk CdS, nano-CdS as well as HP-CdS. d Comparison of the photocatalytic hydrogen production rates of bulk CdS, nano-CdS, and HP-CdS. e Catalytic recyclability of HP-CdS in hydrogen production by water splitting.
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    a Schematic illustration of the synthetic procedure for NiS/ZnxCd1−xS. b PXRD patterns of NiS/ZnxCd1−xS. c TEM image and particle size distribution (Fig. 2c inset) of NiS/Zn0.5Cd0.5S. d EELS elemental mapping images and e HRTEM image of NiS/Zn0.5Cd0.5S. f EIS plots, g photocurrent–time dependence, and h comparison of photocatalytic HER rates of NiS/ZnxCd1−xS; i HER cycling test for NiS/Zn0.5Cd0.5S under visible-light irradiation.
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    a Schematic illustration of the fabrication of Pt–ZnO–Co3O4, Pt–ZnS–CoS, and Pt–Zn3P2–CoP photocatalysts. a1–a3 TEM images of Pt–ZnO–Co3O4, Pt–ZnS–CoS, and Pt–Zn3P2–CoP. b1–b4 Photocatalytic hydrogen generation as the function of reaction time over different photocatalysts.
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    a Schematic illustration of the synthetic procedure of ZNGs and four types of bonding configurations of N atoms (1 graphitic N, 2 pyrrolic N, 3 pyridinic N, 4 pyridine-N-oxide). b Photocatalytic activities of ZNGs for H2 production with Pt as a cocatalyst. c Photocatalytic activity of ZNG-1000 under a prolonged light illumination for 12 h without Pt as a cocatalyst (inset: time course of the H2 evolution rate of ZNGs without Pt as a cocatalyst). d High-resolution TEM image of ZNG-1000.
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    a Low- and b high-magnification TEM images of Co3O4 hollow dodecahedra. c Low- and d high-magnification TEM images of CW-2 hollow dodecahedra. e HRTEM image of Co3O4 hollow dodecahedra (inset is the SAED pattern recorded for the whole particle). f HRTEM image of CW-2 hollow dodecahedra (inset is the SAED pattern recorded from the whole particle). g TOF and h transient photocurrent response of Co3O4 and CW-n under visible-light irradiation (from left to right: Co3O4, CW-1, CW-2, and CW-3).
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    a Schematic illustration of the synthetic process of the hierarchical In2S3–CdIn2S4 heterostructured nanotube: (I) liquid phase sulfidation and (II) cation exchange reaction. b, c TEM images of hierarchical In2S3 nanotubes. d Elemental mappings of an individual In2S3 nanotube. e–g TEM images of hierarchical In2S3–CdIn2S4-10 nanotubes. h Elemental mappings of a single In2S3–CdIn2S4-10 nanotube. i–n CO2 photoreduction performance. i Generation of CO and H2 over different samples. j Evolution of CO and H2 under various reaction conditions. k Results of GC–MS analysis of CO produced from 13CO2 isotope experiment. l Production of CO and H2 as a function of reaction time. m Formation of CO and H2 in stability tests. n Wavelength dependence of yields of CO and H2, and the light absorption spectrum of In2S3–CdIn2S4-10 photocatalyst.
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    Structure characterization of the core–shell cuboctahedron structure: a FESEM image, b and c TEM images, d SAED pattern, and e–g the corresponding HRTEM images. h STEM image of the core–shell cuboctahedron structure and the corresponding EDXS elemental mapping of C, Cu, N, and O and i line profiles. j Photocatalytic equation and reaction conditions. k Product yield correlation with reaction time in the CDC reaction between indole and N-aryl-tetrahydroisoquinoline catalyzed by different catalysts. l Cycling experiments using CNPC as the catalyst.
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    Structures of the three normal dye pollutants
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    SEM images of a ZIF-8, b ZnO-300-3, c ZnO-300-5, d ZnO-500-5, and e ZnO-750-5. f Photodegradation of MB over different catalysts. SEM images of g ZIF-8-derived pure ZnO and h N-doped ZnO. i Photodegradation of RhB by blank (absence of photocatalyst), pure ZnO, and N-doped ZnO with different ratios of urea and ZIF-8 as the precursors. SEM (j, k) and TEM (l, m) images of C350–400. j The calculated reaction rates k for RhB (n1) and phenol (n2) photodegradation under visible light (> 420 nm), k for RhB (n3) and phenol (n4) photodegradation under UV–Vis light (Xenon light)

• Bimetallic Nickel Cobalt Sulfide as Efficient Electrocatalyst for Zn–Air Battery and Water Splitting

  Jingyan Zhang1, Xiaowan Bai2, Tongtong Wang1, Wen Xiao3, Pinxian Xi4, Jinlan Wang2, Daqiang Gao1,*, John Wang3,*	Abstract | Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2019) 11: 2
  First Online: 09 January 2019 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-018-0232-2

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    a XRD spectra of (Ni,Co)S2, NiS2, and CoS2. b High-resolution XRD spectra with 2 theta angles ranging from 30.5° to 33.5°. c Raman spectra of (Ni,Co)S2, NiS2, and CoS2. d SEM image of (Ni,Co)S2. The insert is high-magnification SEM image. e TEM image, f, h HRTEM images, and g EDS spectrum of (Ni,Co)S2. i EDS mapping images of Ni, Co, and S elements in (Ni,Co)S2
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    High-resolution XPS spectra of a Co 2p, b Ni 2p, and c S 2p. d Density of states (DOS) curves of (Ni,Co)S2, NiS2, and CoS2. e Partial density of states (PDOS) curves of (Ni,Co)S2. Insert shows the optimized crystal structure of (Ni,Co)S2. f Charge density distribution of (Ni,Co)S2
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    a Polarization curves of (Ni,Co)S2, NiS2, CoS2, and Ir/C (20% Ir) at 5 mV s−1 in 0.1 M KOH. b Tafel slopes obtained from the corresponding polarization curves. c EIS of (Ni,Co)S2, NiS2, and CoS2. The inset is an analogue circuit diagram. d Cdl obtained by cyclic voltammetry at different scan rates. e I–t curves at 1.5 V versus RHE for 7 × 104 s. f Schematic of Gibbs free energy changes in the four elementary steps during OER on (100) surface of (Ni,Co)S2. g Proposed 4-step OER path presented using the model of (100) surface of (Ni,Co)S2
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    a ORR polarization curves of (Ni,Co)S2, NiS2, CoS2, and Pt/C (20% Pt) at 2 mV s−1 in 0.1 M KOH at 1600 rpm. b CVs of (Ni,Co)S2 in O2 and N2-saturated 0.1 M KOH solution. c ORR polarization curves of (Ni,Co)S2 at different rotation rates from 400 to 2400 rpm. The inset figure is the K–L plots. d RRDE polarization curves of (Ni,Co)S2 at 1600 rpm. The ring electrode was polarized at 1.5 V at a scan rate of 2 mV s−1. e Bifunctional electrocatalytic activities of various catalysts toward both ORR and OER
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    a Schematic illustration of rechargeable Zn–air battery. b Open cell voltage curve and c polarization and power density curves of (Ni,Co)S2-based primary Zn–air battery. d Galvanostatic discharge–charge cycling curves at 2 mA cm−2 of the rechargeable Zn–air battery. e Charge–discharge efficiency of the Zn–air battery at the beginning and end. f Long-time discharge curves of (Ni,Co)S2-based Zn–air battery at 5 mA cm−2. g Photograph of red LED powered by two (Ni,Co)S2-based Zn–air batteries. h Photographs of an electronic watch powered by the (Ni,Co)S2-based Zn–air battery
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    a HER polarization curves of (Ni,Co)S2, NiS2, and CoS2 at 5 mV s−1 in 0.1 M KOH. b Tafel slopes obtained from their polarization curves. c Schematic diagram of the self-assembled water-splitting system. d LSV curves of overall water splitting by (Ni,Co)S2 electrocatalyst in a two-electrode configuration at a scan rate of 5 mV s−1. e Two electrodes after water splitting powered by two in-series (Ni,Co)S2-based Zn–air batteries. f Time dependence of the mole quantities of H2 and O2 produced in the self-driven overall water-splitting unit

• Coral-Like Yolk–Shell-Structured Nickel Oxide/Carbon Composite Microspheres for High-Performance Li-Ion Storage Anodes

  Min Su Jo1, Subrata Ghosh2, Sang Mun Jeong2, Yun Chan Kang3,*, Jung Sang Cho1,*	Abstract | Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2019) 11: 3
  First Online: 09 January 2019 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-018-0234-0

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    Morphologies of the as-prepared powders obtained by spray pyrolysis at different temperatures: a 300 °C, b 400 °C, c 500 °C, d 600 °C, e 700 °C, and f 800 °C
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    Morphologies of the as-prepared powders obtained from the solution containing Ni salt, PVP, and a without PS nanobeads, b with 10 g L−1, c 20 g L−1, d 40 g L−1, and e 80 g L−1 PS nanobeads
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    a, b, d FE-SEM images, c, e HR-TEM images, f SAED pattern, and g elemental mapping images of the CYS-Ni/NiO/C microspheres
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    XRD patterns of the a CYS-Ni/NiO/C and b CYS-NiO/C microspheres
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    a, b, d FE-SEM images, c, e HR-TEM images, f SAED pattern, and g elemental mapping images of the CYS-NiO/C microspheres
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    a Survey XPS, b Ni 2p XPS, c C 1s XPS and d Raman spectra, e N2 adsorption and desorption isotherms, and f BJH pore size distribution of the CYS-NiO/C microspheres
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    Formation mechanism of the coral-like yolk–shell-structured NiO/C composite microspheres
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    Electrochemical properties of the CYS-NiO/C, CYS-Ni/NiO/C, and hollow NiO microspheres for lithium-ion storage: a CV curves of the CYS-NiO/C microspheres, b 1st charge/discharge curves at the current density of 1.0 A g−1, c cycling performance at the current density of 1.0 A g−1, d rate performance of the CYS-NiO/C microspheres, and e long-term cycling performance of the CYS-NiO/C microspheres at the current density of 2.0 A g−1
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    a–c Nyquist impedance plots (lines represent fitting data) and d relationships between the real part of the impedance (Zre) and ω−1/2 of the CYS-NiO/C, CYS-Ni/NiO/C, and hollow NiO microspheres: a before cycling, b after the 1st cycle, c, d after the 200th cycle
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    Morphologies of a hollow NiO, b, c CYS-NiO/C, and d CYS-Ni/NiO/C microspheres after the 200th cycles: a, b, d FE-SEM images and c TEM images

• In Situ Coupling Strategy for Anchoring Monodisperse Co9S8 Nanoparticles on S and N Dual-Doped Graphene as a Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for Rechargeable Zn–Air Battery

  Qi Shao1, Jiaqi Liu1, Qiong Wu1, Qiang Li1, Heng‑guo Wang1,*, Yanhui Li1, Qian Duan1,*	Abstract | Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2019) 11: 4
  First Online: 09 January 2019 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-018-0231-3

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    Schematic illustration of the synthesis of Co9S8/NSG
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    a UV–Vis absorption spectra of TSPP, TSPPCo, and TSPPCo/GO. b XRD patterns and c Raman spectra of the different samples. d N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms and the pore size distribution (inset) of Co9S8/NSG-700
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    a Low- and b high-resolution SEM images of Co9S8/NSG-700. c TEM image of Co9S8/NSG-700. d HRTEM image of Co9S8/NSG-700. e TEM image and elemental mapping of carbon, nitrogen, cobalt, and sulfur
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    a XPS survey, and high-resolution XPS spectra of b N 1 s, c Co 2p, and d S 2p of Co9S8/NSG-600, Co9S8/NSG-700, and Co9S8/NSG-800
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    ORR performance of Co9S8/NSG-700 in 0.1 M KOH. a CV curves of Co9S8/NSG-700 in N2-saturated and O2-saturated solutions. b LSV curves of Co9S8/C-700, NSG-700, Co9S8/NSG-700, and Pt/C at 1600 rpm. c LSV curves of Co9S8/NSG-700 at different rotating rates. d K–L plots and the electron transfer number (inset) obtained from RDE results of Co9S8/NSG-700. e Tafel plots of the samples. f Current–time (i − t) chronoamperometric response of Co9S8/NSG-700 and Pt/C in O2-saturated 0.1 M KOH
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    OER performance of Co9S8/NSG-700 in 1 M KOH. a LSV curves and b Tafel plots of Co9S8/NSG-700, RuO2, and Pt/C. c Current–time (i − t) chronoamperometric response of Co9S8/NSG-700 and RuO2. d Combined ORR/OER LSV curves of Co9S8/NSG-700, RuO2, and Pt/C
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    a Schematic illustration of the assembled rechargeable Zn–air battery. b Open-circuit plots of Co9S8/NSG-700 (inset: photograph of the open-circuit potential). c Galvanodynamic charge–discharge profiles of Co9S8/NSG-700 and Pt/C–RuO2. d Galvanodynamic discharge curve profiles and corresponding power density curves of Co9S8/NSG-700 and Pt/C–RuO2. e Cycling curves of the Co9S8/NSG-700 and Pt/C–RuO2 at a current density of 10 mA cm−2. f Photographs of an LED bike lamp powered by three Zn–air batteries of Co9S8/NSG-700 catalysts before and after 12 h (8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m., respectively)
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    a Schematic illustration of the assembled homemade all-solid-state batteries. b Open-circuit plots (inset: photograph of open-circuit potential). c Galvanodynamic charge–discharge profiles and corresponding power density curves. d Cycling curves of the batteries at a current density of 2 mA cm−2 (inset: photographs of an LED powered by two all-solid-state Zn–air batteries before and after 10 min)

• Enhanced Roles of Carbon Architectures in High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries

  Lu Wang1, Junwei Han1, Debin Kong2,*, Ying Tao1, Quan-Hong Yang1,*	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2019) 11: 5
  First Online: 10 January 2019 (Review)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-018-0233-1

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    Carbon-architecture assembly strategies for building high-energy and high-power LIBs
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    Assembly methods with the assistance of external forces or fields. a Schematic of silicon pomegranates. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [30]. b Schematic of the fabrication process for H-Fe3O4/GS hybrid films. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [39]. c Schematic of the gradient electrospinning and controlled pyrolysis method. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [45]. d Schematic of the synthesis rGO/Fe3O4 hybrid paper. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [52]. e VA-CNTs/Si structure. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [56]. f Schematic of the fabrication processes for nanostructured P-doped Si/graphite composites.
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    a Sketch and SEM images of graphite flakes coated with Fe3O4 nanoparticles. b Graphite-electrode casting. c Sketch depicting lithium diffusion pathways in both electrode architectures. d Rate capability.
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    a Schematic of MoS2@G. b Free-standing MoS2@G membrane. SEM images of: c Mo-SiO2-PVP, d Mo-SiO2@G, and e MoS2@G. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [87]. f HRTEM image of Gr-Si NP. g HRTEM image visualizing the origins (red arrows) of individual graphene-layer growth. h Schematic illustration showing the sliding of graphene coating layers that buffer the volume expansion of Si.
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    a Schematic of the fabrication process. b Cross-sectional SEM image. (Inset) A free-standing monolithic electrode. c Rate capability at tunable nanoporosity. d Rate performance at different mass loadings.
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    a Schematic of the lithiation/delithiation processes of the Ge-QD@NG/NGF/PDMS yolk-shell electrode. b, c SEM and d, e TEM images before cycling and under lithiation after 1,000 cycles at a current density of 1 C.
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    a Schematic of in-situ nanocrystal growth with GO as both hard and soft templates. Reprinted with permission from Ref. [108]. b Schematic of the sulfur-template control strategy that incorporates void space. HRTEM image of SnO2@GC: c before sulfur removal and d after removal of all of the original sulfur (Scale bar: 5 nm). e Cycling performance.
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    8 a Design concept of a 3D carbon-based current collector. b Visual comparisons of batteries with an ultrathick 3D electrode and a conventional design. Morphology and microstructure: c top view and d cross-sectional view. e Electrochemical performance.

• Comprehensive Application of Graphene: Emphasis on Biomedical Concerns

  S. Syama1, P. V. Mohanan1,*	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2019) 11: 6
  First Online: 12 January 2019 (Review)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-019-0237-5

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    Process of graphene synthesis. Graphite is exfoliated and oxidized to form hydrophilic graphene oxide (brown solution). Graphene oxide is further reduced to obtain reduced graphene oxide, which is less stable in water (black solution)
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    Drug and gene delivery applications. a Delivery of doxorubicin using amine-PEG-functionalized GO. b siRNA delivery and mRNA degradation using PEI-conjugated GO for gene silencing technology (RISC—RNA-induced silencing complex)
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    Anticancer therapy. a Photothermal destruction of tumor cells following GQD exposure and irradiation. b Development of the phototoxicity on/off system for subcellular targeting and selective destruction of tumor cells. c Combined chemo- and photothermal destruction of tumor cells using drug-loaded graphene nanosheets under NIR irradiation. d Photodynamic therapy using magnetic GO nanoconjugates functionalized with aptamer and an ICG photosensitizer to achieve targeted cancer cell destruction
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    Graphene-based biosensors. a FRET-based graphene sensors for the detection of target DNA using fluorescent-labeled ssDNA. b Graphene biosensors for the immobilization of enzymes to monitor enzyme activity. c Graphene immunosensor for the detection of an antigen–antibody complex for early disease diagnosis. d Graphene nanohybrid electrochemical aptasensor for endotoxin detection. Step 1: Complementary DNA 1 is hybridized to LBA. Step 2: LPS binds to LBA, promoting the release of DNA 1. Step 3: Together with the help of an associated probe, DNA 1 binds to a capture probe and forms a Y-shaped structure. Step 4: Exonuclease nicking cleaves the capture probe and releases both DNA 1 and the assistant probe. Step 5: DNA 1 and the assistant probe are rehybridized to the new capture probe, and the cycle continues. Step 6: More numbers of cleaved capture probes are formed. Step 7: Capture probes are hybridized to DNA 2 nanocomposites, resulting in the production of electrochemical signals. e Structure of the magnetocatalytic GQD-based Janus micromotors and fluorescence quenching upon binding of LPS
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    Bioimaging application. a Graphene quantum dots for in vitro cellular imaging. b Mechanism of toxicity induced by graphene in bacterial cells
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    Graphene as a scaffold for tissue engineering. a The figure explains that graphene enhances the viability and proliferation of mesenchymal stem cells and also induces their differentiation toward osteogenesis and neuronal cells without the addition of any differentiation factors. b Layer-by-layer assembly of graphene sheets printed using a 3D printer. c Three-dimensional printing and layer-by-layer assembly of a graphene-HA scaffold
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    Protein corona. a Formation of a hard and a soft corona on the surface of nanoparticles, following the incubation of nanoparticles with serum. b Isolation and separation of hard corona proteins that bind to graphene sheets by repeated centrifugation and washing. c SDS-PAGE analysis of hard corona proteins isolated from PRGO incubated with FBS at different time periods (5 min, 30 min, and 2 h). Only BSA (~ 66 kDa) formed a hard corona by strongly binding onto the surface of PRGO under different reaction conditions
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    Graphene–bio interaction. a Mechanism of graphene nanomaterial-induced toxicity (oxidative stress, apoptosis, and inflammation) in mammalian cells. b In vivo organ toxicity induced in animals following graphene administration. c Biochemical parameters following single (i) and repeated (ii) administration of PRGO in mice. d Histopathological sections of the liver (i—control, iii—PRGO group) and the kidney (ii—control, iv—PRGO group)

• Machine Learning Approach to Enhance the Performance of MNP-Labeled Lateral Flow Immunoassay

  Wenqiang Yan1, Kan Wang1,*, Hao Xu2, Xuyang Huo3,*, Qinghui Jin4,5, Daxiang Cui1,*	Abstract | Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2019) 11: 7
  First Online: 17 January 2019 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-019-0239-3

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    Format and assay principle of ICTS
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    Assay procedure comprising brief working principle of MIR
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    a Validation card with ICTS cartridge and QR code. b Waveform of validation card, comprising three levels of magnetic intensity: low, medium, and high
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    a Waveform for a single coil employed as the induction coil in the first version of the MIR. b Waveform for a pair of coils employed as the induction coil
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    Flow chart for data processing procedure
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    a Waveform of raw detection data. b Filtered waveform
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    Results of waveform reconstruction (in the small diagram). Blue line is the distorted waveform and green line is the reconstructed waveform
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    a HCG strips used for standard curve. Concentrations from 1 to 8 were 1000, 500, 100, 50, 10, 5, 1, and 0 mIU mL-1. b Standard curve for HCG strips
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    a Multiplex line strip and its waveform for detecting cTnI (TL1), CKMB (TL2), and Myo (TL3) simultaneously. Correlation between the results obtained by clinical ECLIA methods and this platform for b cTnI, c CKMB, and d Myo detection in serum samples

• Flexible, Porous, and Metal–Heteroatom-Doped Carbon Nanofibers as Efficient ORR Electrocatalysts for Zn–Air Battery

  Qijian Niu1,2, Binling Chen3,*, Junxia Guo1,2, Jun Nie1,2, Xindong Guo1,2, Guiping Ma1,2,*	Abstract | Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2019) 11: 8
  First Online: 19 January 2019 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-019-0238-4

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    Schematic illustration for the preparation of Zn/Co-N@PCNFs from electrospun Zn/Co-ZIFs/PAN nanofibers: a the micro-morphologies of the nanofibers before and after carbonization; b the simulated cross section diagram; c the simulated molecular structure diagram; d the digital photographs of the nanofiber film before and after carbonization
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    SEM images of the a Zn/Co-ZIFs/PAN nanofibers and b Zn/Co-N@PCNFs-800; TEM images of a single nanofiber c Zn/Co-ZIFs/PAN nanofiber and d Zn/Co-N@PCNFs-800; HR-TEM images and STEM elemental mappings of e a single Zn/Co-ZIFs/PAN nanofiber and f a single Zn/Co-N@PCNFs-800
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    a TG and DTG curves of Zn/Co-ZIFs/PAN nanofibers; b FT-IR spectra; c XRD patterns; and d Raman spectra of Zn/Co-ZIFs/PAN nanofibers and their carbonized samples with different carbonization temperatures (500, 600, 700, 800, 900, and 1000 °C)
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    TEM images of the samples obtained at different carbonization temperature: a 500 °C, b 600 °C, c 700 °C, d 800 °C, e 900 °C, and f 1000 °C (Insets are the size distributions of metal nanoparticles)
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    High-magnification HR-TEM images of the samples at different carbonization temperature: a 500 °C, b 600 °C, c 700 °C, d 800 °C, e 900 °C, and f 1000 °C (Insets are their corresponding SAED patterns)
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    XPS high-resolution spectra of a Zn 2p, b Co 2p, and c N 1s levels at different carbonization temperatures
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    N2 adsorption-desorption isotherm of the samples at different carbonization temperature: a 500 °C, b 600 °C, c 700 °C, d 800 °C, e 900 °C, and f 1000 °C
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    a CV curves of Zn/Co-N@PCNFs-800 in 0.1-M N2-saturated and O2-saturated KOH with a sweep rate of 50 mV s-1; b LSV curves for Zn/Co-N@PCNFs-800 and 20 wt% Pt/C in 0.1-M O2-saturated KOH electrolyte with a 10 mV s-1 and a rotation rate of 1600 rpm; c LSV curves of Zn/Co-N@PCNFs-800 at different rotation speeds from 400–2500 rpm; d K-L plots of Zn/Co-N@PCNFs-800 at different potentials; e Chronoamperometric response of Zn/Co-N@PCNFs-800 and 20 wt% Pt/C in 0.1-M O2-saturated KOH aqueous solution at 0.71 V vs. RHE; f The durability test of Zn/Co-N@PCNFs-800 and 20 wt% Pt/C for methanol, the arrow indicates the introduction of 1 mL methanol
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    a Schematic representation of the basic configuration of a two electrode Zn-air battery by coupling the Zn electrode with an air electrode to execute ORR and OER in 6 M KOH solution as the electrolyte; b Catalytic mechanism diagram of cathode about Zn/Co-N@PCNFs-800; c Photographs of a green LED (1.8 V) powered by two Zn-air batteries integrated in series; d Discharge polarization and power-density curves of the Zn-air batteries using Zn/Co-N@PCNFs-800 and 20 wt% Pt/C+RuO2 as ORR catalysts (mass loading of 1.2 mg cm-2)；e Specific capacities for the Zn-air battery using Zn/Co-N@PCNFs-800 and 20 wt% Pt/C+RuO2 as an ORR catalyst, which was regularized with consumed Zn mass; f Galvanostatic discharge and charge cycling curves at 10 mA cm-2 with each cycle for 10 min (5 min charge and 5 min discharge) of rechargeable Zn-air batteries with the Zn/Co-N@PCNFs-800 and 20 wt% Pt/C+RuO2 as the cathode catalyst

• N, F-Codoped Microporous Carbon Nanofibers as Efficient Metal-Free Electrocatalysts for ORR

  Tianle Gong1, Ruoyu Qi1, Xundao Liu2, Hong Li1,*, Yongming Zhang1	Abstract | Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2019) 11: 9
  First Online: 22 January 2019 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-019-0240-x

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    Schematic illustration of N, F-MCFs ORR catalysts
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    SEM images of a electrospun PAN/PVP/PVDF nanofibers, b PAN/PVDF porous nanofibers after hydrothermal treatment, N, F-MCFs with different compositions, c PAN/PVP/PVDF = 1/1/1, d PAN/PVP/PVDF = 1/1/1.5. e, f TEM images of N, F-MCFs
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    a XRD patterns, b Raman spectra, c, d N2 adsorption isotherms (Inset of c and d are pore size distributions of N, F-MCFs-A and N, F-MCFs-B)
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    a, d XPS spectra of N, F-MCFs-A&B. High-resolution XPS spectra of b, e N 1s and c, f F 1s of N, F-MCFs-A&B
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    a CV curves of N, F-MCFs-A; N, F-MCFs-B; N-MCFs-C; and N, F-CFs-D in O2-saturated 0.1 M KOH with a scan rate of 10 mV s-1. b LSV curves of N, F-MCFs-A; N, F-MCFs-B; and commercial 20% Pt/C in O2-saturated 0.1 M KOH with a scan rate of 10 mV s-1. LSV curves and K-L plots of c, d N, F-MCFs-A and e, f N, F-MCFs-B. g Percentage of H2O2 yield and electron transfer number (n) of N, F-MCFs-A. h LSV curves of N, F-MCFs-A with and without 10 mM NaCN in O2-saturated 0.1 M KOH with a scan rate of 10 mV s-1
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    a CV curves of N, F-MCFs-A and Pt/C 20% in O2-saturated 0.5 M H2SO4 with a scan rate of 10 mV s-1. b LSV curves and c K–L plots of N, F-MCFs-A in O2-saturated 0.5 M H2SO4 with a scan rate of 10 mV s-1
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    a Current-time (i-t) chronoamperometric response of N, F-MCFs-A and Pt/C 20% in O2-saturated 0.1 M KOH at a rotating rate of 1600 rpm for 10,000 s. b CV curves of N, F-MCFs-A and c Pt/C 20% with and without 3 wt% CH3OH in 0.1 M KOH

• In-situ Preparation of Bimetal Co-doped Mesoporous Graphitic Carbon Nitride with Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity

  Wanbao Wu1, Zhaohui Ruan2, Junzhuo Li1, Yudong Li1, Yanqiu Jiang1,*, Xianzhu Xu1, Defeng Li1, Yuan Yuan2,*, Kaifeng Lin1,*	Abstract | Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2019) 11: 10
  First Online: 23 January 2019 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-018-0236-y

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    XRD patterns of P-CN, Co-CN-5, Mo-MCN-2, and Co/Mo-MCN composites
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    a Nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherms and b corresponding pore size distribution curves of P-CN, Co-CN-5, Mo-MCN-2, and Co/Mo-MCN
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    TEM images of a, b P-CN and c, d Co/Mo-MCN-5
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    SEM images of a P-CN, b Co-CN-5, c Mo-MCN-2, d Co/Mo-MCN-5, e–h elemental mapping for Co/Mo-MCN-5
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    XPS spectra of a C1s, b N1s, c Mo3d, and d Co2p for Co/Mo-MCN-5
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    a Photocatalytic H2 evolution rate of as-prepared materials, b cyclic test of photocatalytic H2 evolution by Co/Mo-MCN-5, c Photocatalytic activities of RhB degradation for as-materials and d cyclic test of RhB degradation by Co/Mo-MCN-5
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    a UV−Vis absorption spectra of P-CN, Co-CN-5, Mo-MCN-2, and Co/Mo-MCN-5, b Mott–Schottky plots of P-CN and Co/Mo-MCN-5, c transient photocurrent responses, and d photoluminescence spectra of P-CN, Co-CN-5, and Co/Mo-MCN-5
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    Crystal structure of a P-CN, b Co-CN, and c Mo-CN, and charge density difference of d Co-CN and e Mo-CN
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    Band structure of a PCN, b Mo-CN, and c Co-CN
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    Optical absorption coefficient of PCN, Co-CN, and Mo-CN
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    a Simulation model of Mo-MCN. D represents mesopores of sizes ranging from 10 to 50 nm, and electric field intensity distribution in x–y plane for b P-CN, c Mo-MCN, and x–z plane for d P-CN, and e Mo-MCN
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    Photocatalytic mechanism scheme of Co/Mo-MCN under visible light irradiation

Most Viewed articles are updated on a monthly basis. Below are the journal’s Top 10 most viewed over the last 6 months.

• Growth of Carbon Nanocoils by Porous α-Fe2O3/SnO2 Catalyst and Its Buckypaper for High Efficient Adsorption

  Yongpeng Zhao1, 2, Jianzhen Wang1, Hui Huang1, Tianze Cong1, Shuaitao Yang1, Huan Chen2, Jiaqi Qin3, Muhammad Usman1, Zeng Fan1 , Lujun Pan1, *	Abstract | Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 23
  First Online: 16 January 2020 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-019-0365-y

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    Top view and cross-sectional SEM images of the carbon deposits prepared by the catalysts with different Fe/Sn molar ratios of a, b 1:0, c, d 60:1, e, f 30:1, g, h 10:1, and i, j 3:1. k Raman spectra and l the respective ID/IG and FWHW values for the carbon deposits; m the thickness of carbon layer and purity of CNCs synthesized at different Fe/Sn molar ratios
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    TEM and HRTEM images of a single CNC (a, b) and a single CNF (c, d.
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    Cross-sectional SEM images of CNCs synthesized using Fe/Sn catalyst films with spin-coating times of a one, b three, c five, d)ten, e fifteen, and f thirty times. g Effects of varying Fe/Sn catalyst density on the the thickness of short fibrous carbon layers and density of CNCs. h Raman spectra of CNCs synthesized at different Fe/Sn catalyst films
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    a Plots of yield and thickness of CNCs versus growth time; Cross-sectional SEM images of CNCs grown for b 10, c 30, d 60, e 180 and (f) 360 min. Optical photographs of the substrates (g) before and (h) after the‘scale-up’ CVD reaction. The scale bar for (b-f) is 300 m. (i) and (j) Top and back sides SEM images of the carbon deposits prepared with different substrates of 1, 3, 5, 7, 10 and 12, respectively. The scale bar for (i) and (j) is 5 m.
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    Structural and component analysis of the catalysts with Fe/Sn molar ratio of 10:1. aa SEM, bb TEM, and c HRTEM images, d EDX, and e XRD spectra, f Fe 2p and Sn 3p, g Sn 3d, and h O 1s XPS spectra, i N2 adsorption/desorption isotherm for the catalyst particles
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    a TEM image of the tip of an as-grown CNC synthesized by the Fe/Sn catalyst with molar ratio of 10:1; b HRTEM image of the part indicated by a dashed box in a; c-d The elemental mapping of tip particles with Fe/Sn molar ratios of 10:1 and 3:1
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    SEM images of the catalyst aggregates and deposits on the substrates after feeding C2H2 (4 sccm) at 710 °C for a 10 s, b 30 s, c 100 s, d 300 s. e Schematic of growth pathway of high-purity CNCs
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    a CNC buckypaper; b and c top view and cross-sectional SEM images of CNC buckypaper; d electrical, e mechanical, and f electrochemical properties of CNC buckypaper. Insert of (e) galvanostatic charge/discharge measurement. g Photographs of a 10 ppm methylene blue solution (left) and the clear solution (right) obtained by soaking the CNC paper for 120 min. h UV-Vis spectra of pristine (10 ppm, black curve) and CNC paper-treated (red curve) methylene blue solution. i Photographs and j UV-Vis spectra of a 10 ppm methylene blue passing through the needle with pristine plug (left) or plug/CNC mix plug (right)

• Ultrathin 2D Metal Organic Framework Nanosheets In-situ Interpenetrated by Functional Carbon Nanotubes for Hybrid Energy Storage Device

  Feitian Ran1, Xueqing Xu1, Duo Pan2, Yuyan Liu1, Yongping Bai1, Lu Shao1, *	Abstract | Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 46
  First Online: 04 February 2020 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-020-0382-x

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    a Schematic illustration for the synthesis of ultrathin Ni-MOF/C-CNTs nanosheets. SEM images of as-synthesized b, c Ni-MOF and d, e Ni-MOF/C-CNTs40 nanosheets. f EDS mapping for C, O, and Ni elements of the Ni-MOF/C-CNTs40
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    TEM images of a, b Ni-MOF, c-e Ni-MOF/C-CNTs40 nanosheets with different magnification. f HRTEM image of Ni-MOF/C-CNTs40
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    Physical characterization of as-synthesized samples. a XRD patterns and b FT-IR spectra of Ni-MOF and a series of Ni-MOF/C-CNTs nanostructures. c XPS spectrum of Ni-MOF/C-CNTs40. High-resolution XPS spectra of d Ni 2p and e O 1s. f N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms and pore size distribution plots (inset) of Ni-MOF and Ni-MOF/C-CNTs40
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    Electrochemical evaluation measured in 3M KOH electrolyte with a three-electrode system. a CV curves at 10 mV s-1 and b GCD curves at 1 A g-1 for Ni-MOF and a series of Ni-MOF/C-CNTs nanostructures. c CV curves at different scan rate, d the relationship between the scan rate and peak current density, and e GCD curves at various current densities for Ni-MOF/C-CNTs40. f Specific capacities for Ni-MOF and a series of Ni-MOF/C-CNTs
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    a Schematic illustration of the MOF/C-CNTs40//AC HSC device. b CV curves of Ni-MOF/C-CNTs40 and commercial AC electrodes at 5 mV s-1 in three electrode system, respectively. c CV curves of the HSC device in various voltages at 20 mV s-1. d GCD curves of the HSC device at various current densities. e Cycling performance at the current density of 2 A g-1 and two devices in series can lighten up a red LED indicator (inset). f Ragone plots of HSC device

• Single-Atom Catalysts for Electrochemical Hydrogen Evolution Reaction: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives

  Zonghua Pu1, 2, Ibrahim Saana Amiinu2, Ruilin Cheng2, Pengyan Wang2, Chengtian Zhang2, Shichun Mu2, *,Weiyue Zhao3, Fengmei Su4, Gaixia Zhang1, *, Shijun Liao3, *, Shuhui Sun1, *	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 21
  First Online: 13 January 2020 (Review)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-019-0349-y

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    a Pt SACs are uniformly distributed on the FeOx and b directly occupy the positions of the Fe atoms. c, d A mixture of SACs (in white circles), 2D Pt rafts consisting of less than ten Pt atoms (in black circles) and the size of 3D Pt clusters about 1 nm or less (white squares) are seen clearly. e DFT model of Pt1/FeOx.
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    a Schematic illustrations of Pt ALD mechanism on graphene nanosheets. b-g present the results with (b, c) 50, (d, e) 100, and (f, g) 150 ALD cycles. h Schematic illustration of the Pt ALD mechanism on NGNs. HAADF-STEM images of ALDPt/NGNs samples with i 50 and j 100 ALD cycles.
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    a The schematic illustrations of Co SAs/N-C. b TEM, c, d HAADF-STEM images of Co SAs/N-C(800). e LSV of Co SAs/N-C, Co NPs-N/C, and Pt/C in O2-saturated 0.1 M KOH solutions. f Preparation of (Fe, Co)/N-C. g HAADF-STEM of (Fe, Co)/N-C. h Corresponding intensity profiles obtained on the zoomed areas in panel g. i Corresponding EELS mapping of Co, Fe, and N. j Schematic formation process of Co-N4 and Co-N2. k EXAFS spectra confirm the atomic dispersion of Co atoms in Co-N2, Co-N3 and Co-N4. l LSVs of Co-N2, Co-N3, Co-N4 and Co NPs.
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    a The synthetic process of ISAS-Co/HNCS. b TEM and c AC-HAADF-STEM images of ISAS-Co/HNCS. d HAADF-STEM image and corresponding EDX element mapping of ISAS-Co/HNCS. e ORR polarization curves.
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    a Schematic illustration, b TEM, c HAADF-STEM image of Co-N5/HNPCSs. d AC-HAADF-STEM and magnified images of Co-N5/HNPCSs. e LSV curves.
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    a Schematic illustration of Pt nanoparticle to Pt SACs. b Schematic illustration of Pd nanoparticle to Pd SACs and structural characterizations of Pd SACs. c Scheme of Ni NPs to Ni SACs transformation and structural characterizations. d Schematic of the synthesis of Cu-SACs/N-C.
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    a Schematic illustration of the iced-photochemical process. AC-HAADF-STEM images of b Ag SACs and c Au SACs. d-f Structural characterizations of Pd1/TiO2.
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    a The synthetic procedure of the Co-NG material. b SEM, c TEM and d cross-section SEM image of Co-NG nanosheets. e Bright-field aberration-corrected STEM image of the Co-NG. f HAADF-STEM image of the Co-NG. g The enlarged view of the selected area in f.
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    a Fe K-edge XANES and b FT EXAFS signals for FeN4/GN, FePc, Fe foil, and Fe2O3. XANES spectra at the Co K-edge of c Co3O4, Co foil, CoO, and Co-N5/HNPCSs, d Co-N5/HNPCSs-T (inset is the magnified image), e FT at R space, f schematic model, C (gray), N (blue), Co (wathet), and H (white).
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    a Preparation process of Ru SAs@PN. b Polarization curves of the samples. c The synthetic process for the Ru-N/G-750. d Polarization curves of Ru-N/G-750, Fe-N/G-750 and Pt/C in O2-saturated 0.1 M HClO4 solutions. e Scheme of the synthetic procedure for Ru SAs/N-C. f Current densities for NH3 production.
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    a Illustration of the preparation process of Ru3/CN. b Conversion (%) of 2-aminobenzylalcohol versus time for Ru3/CN, Ru1/CN, Ru NPs/CN and commercial Ru/C. c Schematic illustration of the hydrogenation. d Ru K-edge FT-EXAFS spectra. e HAADF-STEM image of Ru/LDH. f Possible reaction pathway for CO2 hydrogenation to produce formic acid with a Ru/LDH catalyst.
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    a The synthetic process of Pt@PCM. b Element mapping images of Pt@PCM. Polarization curves of samples in c 0.5 M H2SO4 and d 1.0 M KOH solutions. e The formation of Pt-GDY1 and Pt-GDY2. f AC-HAADF–STEM images for PtGDY2. g Elemental mapping for Pt-GDY2. (h) The polarization curves for Pt-GDY2, Pt-GDY1, and c Pt/C in acidic solution.
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    a TEM and b HAADF-STEM images of Pt-MoS2. c Magnified domain with red dashed rectangle in b. d Polarization curves for bulk MoS2, FL-MoS2, Pt-MoS2, and 40% Pt/C. e Schematic illustration of the spontaneous MoS2/Pd (II) redox reaction. f Dark-field STEM image of the 1% Pd–MoS2. g Polarization curves of 1% Pd-MoS2/CP, 1% Pd-MoS2, pure MoS2, 1% Pd-C, and 20% Pt/C.
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    a The polarization curves of Co-G, NG, Co-NG and commercial Pt/C in acidic solutions. b Polarization curves for the Co-NG before and after 1,000 CV cycles in acidic and alkaline solutions, respectively. c The preparation and activation process of the Ni-C materials. d Polarization curves before and after activation at a constant potential. e CVs of HCl-Ni@C. f Polarization curves for A-Ni-C, HCl-Ni@C, and Pt/C catalysts.
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    a Schematic illustration for the synthesis of Fe/GD and Ni/GD. AC-HAADF-STEM images of b Ni/GD and c Fe/GD. d Polarization curves of CC, Ni/GD, GDF, Fe/GD, and Pt/C. e The chemisorption energy of H for HER performance related to the free energy profile (ΔG).
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    a The formation process of W SACs. b TEM and c AC-HAADF-STEM images of the W SACs. d Atomic structure model of the W SACs. e Polarization curves for the W SACs. f TEM image of the Mo1N1C2, the insert is SAED pattern. g EDS maps for Mo1N1C2 material. h HRTEM and i AC-HAADF-STEM images of the Mo1N1C2. j Mo K-edge FT-EXAFS fitting curves of the Mo1N1C2. k Atomic structure model of the Mo1N1C2. l Polarization curves for the Mo1N1C2, MoN, Mo2C, and 20% Pt/C. m Polarization curves for the Mo1N1C2 before and after 1,000 CV cycles. n Gibbs free energy for H* adsorption for Mo2C, Mo1N1C2, and MoN. o The calculated DOS of the Mo1N1C2.

• Hierarchical Porous RGO/PEDOT/PANI Hybrid for Planar/Linear Supercapacitor with Outstanding Flexibility and Structural Stability

  Fuwei Liu1, 2, Luoyuan Xie1, Li Wang1, Wei Chen3, Wei Wei4, Xian Chen1, Shaojuan Luo5, Lei Dong6, Qilin Dai7, Yang Huang1, *, Lei Wang1, *	Abstract | Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 17
  First Online: 04 January 2020 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-019-0342-5

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    Fabrication process of hierarchical and porous RGO/PEDOT/PANI hybrid
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    a, b Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of porous RGO/PEDOT framework at different scales. c−f SEM of hierarchical and porous RGO/PEDOT/PANI hybrid with different electrodeposition durations of PANI: 5, 10, 15, and 20 min
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    a CV curves of GO/PEDOT:PSS, RGO/PEDOT, and RGO/PEDOT/PANI at 50 mV s−1. b CD curves of GO/PEDOT:PSS, RGO/PEDOT, and RGO/PEDOT/PANI at 1 A g−1. c Nyquist plots of GO/PEDOT:PSS, RGO/PEDOT, and RGO/PEDOT/PANI. d CV curves of RGO/PEDOT/PANI at different scan rates. e CD curves of RGO/PEDOT/PANI at different current densities. f Cycle stabilities of RGO/PEDOT/PANI hybrid at 5 A g−1
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    a XRD patterns, b FTIR spectra, c Raman spectra, d Uv−Vis spectra, and e XPS full spectra of GO/PEDOT:PSS, RGO/PEDOT, and RGO/PEDOT/PANI. f N 1s spectra of RGO/PEDOT/PANI
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    a CV curves of planar solid-state SC at different scan rates. b CD curves of the planar device at different current densities. c Cycle stabilities of the device at 5 A g−1. d Photographs of the compact and flexible SC, with a thickness of 141 μm. e Capacitance retention at different bending angles. f Ragone plots of our SC device and its comparison with other devices: Cr2O3/GO/PANI, PANI NFs/FrGO, RGO/CuO/PANI, CNT/PANI, CNF/PANI, HPC/PANI, PANI/MWCNT, RGO/MnO2@PANI, grapheme//MGC, activated carbon//MnO2, MnO-RGO//FC, activated carbon//NaMnO2
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    SEM images of the cotton electrode at different scales: a−c pristine state, d−f modified with RGO/PEDOT, g−i modified with RGO/PEDOT/PANI hybrid
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    a Schematic diagram of the linear SC device. b Cross-section SEM images of the linear device based on RGO/PEDOT/PANI modified cotton yarn. c The linear device can be stretched, bended, twisted or knotted arbitrarily without damaging its integrity, while continuously powering a digital watch. d Ragone plots of our linear SC and its comparison with other linear devices. e Three SCs connected in series can easily power a digital watch for at least half an hour

• Nanotechnologies in Food Science: Applications, Recent Trends and Future Perspectives

  Shivraj Hariram Nile1, *, #, Venkidasamy Baskar2, #, Dhivya Selvaraj2, Arti Nile3, Jianbo Xiao4, Guoyin Kai1, *	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 45
  First Online: 04 February 2020 (Review)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-020-0383-9

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    Different sized nanoparticles used in nanotechnologies of food science.
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    Nanotechnology in food science and technology
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    Potential for the development of metallic-based nanocomposites in active food packaging
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    Examples of nanotechnology-based solutions for detection and prevention of microbial infections.
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    Oral bioavailability of bioactive compounds controlled by three major steps; bio-accessibility, absorption and transformation.
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    Examples of effective micronutrient delivery system for food manufactures.
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    Schematic diagram showing the delivery of bioactive components in food matrix.

• Natural and Eco-friendly Materials for Triboelectric Energy Harvesting

  Vladislav Slabov1, 2, Svitlana Kopyl1, Marco P. Soares dos Santos2, 3, Andrei L. Kholkin1, 4, 5, *	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 42
  First Online: 28 January 2020 (Review)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-020-0373-y

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    The main modes of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) and examples of construction: a four main working modes; b example of the surface modification of the polymer-based TENG; c example of construction of a TENG operating under the contact-separation mode using springs; d schematic illustration of the polymer TENG operating under the contact-separation mode using a spacer.
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    The design of TENGs using plants: a surface of the petal rose and schematics of the contact-separation mode TENG with petal; b schematics of the rhododendron leaf as an electric bilayer structure; c schematic illustration of the working principles of leaf-TENG in the single electrode mode. i) contact state; ii) separating state; iii) separated state; iv) approaching state; d structure of the fresh leaf and dry powder. e schematics and proof of the concept of plant modification for designing TENGs; f schematics of the water-solid contact.
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    Products of processing of plants used to design TENGs: a cellulose/phosphorene hybrid TENG preparation and transparency demonstration; b demonstration of a bacterial nanocellulose-based TENG; c surface structure, schematic illustration and demonstration of the transparency of a TENG based on cellulose nanofibrils; d sponge-TENG fabricated by 3D soft lithography using sugar particles.
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    a NBPs obtained from wide raw material sources and structure diagram of a typical BN-TENG device: scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) images of nanostructure on the surface of NBP film. Lower and upper scale bars: 5 and 1 µm; b Photo of the rice paper and scheme of the TENG: PET, PVC, transparent conductive electrode and rice paper; c Electrical output of BD-TENG encapsulated in PVA. (c1, c2) Photograph of the implant site of PVA-coated BD-TENG. (c1) Right after implantation. (c2) 72 h after implantation; d In vivo exhibition of T2ENG's multiple functions, such as total biodegradation, energy harvesting, biomechanical sensing and medical therapy.
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    Factors influencing the output performance of TENGs: a influence of the excitation frequency. b the output voltage as a function of the size contact area of TENGs; c static water contact angle measurement and contact potential difference comparison of materials under friction; d influence of the vertical force on output voltage; e Kelvin probe force microscopy of the leaf before and after friction.

• Recent Advances in Tumor Microenvironment Hydrogen Peroxide Responsive Materials for Cancer Photodynamic Therapy

  Nan Yang1 , Wanyue Xiao1, Xuejiao Song1, *, Wenjun Wang2, Xiaochen Dong1, 3, *	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 15
  First Online: 03 January 2020 (Review)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-019-0347-0

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    Summary of H2O2-responsive materials for enhanced photodynamic therapy
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    a Schematic representation of the formation of HMCP nanoparticles. b HMCP was added at different pH values to generate oxygen in H2O2 solution (100×10-6 M). The decrease in oxygen concentration in the sample at pH 7.4 (after about 150 s) is due to the rapid consumption of H2O2. c Representative immunofluorescence images of tumor sections after hypoxia staining. Hypoxic areas and blood vessels were stained with anti-pipemole antibody (green) and anti-CD31 antibody (red). d Scheme of the disintegration of HMCP nanoparticles by in situ chemical reaction in the TME for synergistic PDT and chemotherapy.
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    a Schematic diagram of MDSP NPs manufacturing. b Schematic illustration of MDSP NPs for TME responsive chemo/photodynamic therapy. c Tumor growth curves of differently treated mice (6 mice/group). d Tumor photographs collected from mice in different treatment groups.
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    a Porphyrin metal-organic framework nanoparticle aMMTm was constructed by drug loading, MnO2 coating and tumor cell membrane decoration. b The proposed mechanism of action of aMMTm in mouse tumor model. Tumor cell membrane camouflage can help the early removal of nanoparticles and target tumor through homotypic affinity. At tumor site, MnO2 shell reacts with GSH in the microenvironment or tumor cells, consuming excess GSH and enhancing the action of PDT. Simultaneously produced Mn2+ can be used as MRI contrast agent. When MnO2 shell degrades, the released apatinib neutralizes PDT-induced revascularization and prevents tumor progression.
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    a Schematic diagram of enzyme-like activity of AuNCs. b Through the catalase activity of AuNCs-NH2, a simple strategy of combining traditional PDT with self-supplying O2 leads to increase in 1O2 and O2•- generation. c Schematic illustration of the synthesis of AuNC@HSA/CAT nanoparticles. d 1O2 generation for AuNC@HSA or AuNC@HSA/CAT with or without addition of H2O2. e O2 generation in H2O2 solutions (100 μM) incubated with AuNC@HSA or AuNC@HSA/CAT.
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    a Schematic illustration of core-shell nanofactory for enhanced tumor therapy. Pda-Pt@PCN-FA converts H2O2 from tumors into O2 and 1O2. b O2 generation of different groups. c In vivo fluorescence images of Pda-Pt @ PCN-FA at different time after intravenous injection. d Tumor growth volume curves of different treated mouse group.
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    a Schematic illustration of C3N4-Fe-TPP NF/MB as theranostic nanocomposites for mitochondria-targeting H2O2-enhanced PDT. b O2 was catalyzed by FeMn-LDH adding H2O2 (100 mM). c Evolution of O2 in HeLa cells incubated with O2 probe RDPP and FeMn-LDH (100 mg mL-1) at different time (0, 4, 8, and 24 h).
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    a Schematic diagram of the synthesis and action mechanism of Cu-Cys NPs. b Detection of ROS in ADSCs and MCF-7R cells before and after Cu-Cys NPs treatment. c Photographs of tumors collected from the mice. d Changes in body weight of mice during treatment. e Histological analysis of the major organs after treatment.
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    a Schematic diagram of the synthesis and action mechanism of UCNPs@CeOx/g-C3N4. b TEM image of NaGdF4:Yb, Tm@NaGdF4:Yb, Nd NPs. c TEM image of UCG NPs and the DLS curve of UCG NPs. d TEM images of UCGM NPs. e TEM images of UCGM NPs treated with H2O2 for 4 h under acidic condition (pH 6.5). f The EDS element mapping of UCGM NPs. g CLSM images of ROS generated in HepG2 cells with different treatment methods using H2DCFDA as indicator. Scale bar: 10 μm.
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    a Compounds 1-4. b Formation of interchain crosslinks (ICL) induced by 1 and 2 during H2O2 activation. b Release of nitrogen mustard from compound 1 upon treatment with H2O2. c The concentration dependence of compounds 1 and 2 on DNA cross-linking formation upon H2O2 activation. Lane 1 without drug; lanes 2-9 with drug 1: lane 2, without H2O2 (cross-linking yield 0%); lane 3, 50 μM H2O2 + 100 μM 1 (2.2%); lane 4, 100 μM H2O2 + 200 μM 1(5%); lane 5, 250 μM H2O2 + 500 μM 1 (11%); lane 6, 500 μM H2O2 +1.0 mM 1 (18%); lane 7, 1.0mM H2O2 + 2.0 mM 1 (28%); lane 8, 1.5mM H2O2 + 3.0 mM 1 (36%); lane 9, 2.0 mM H2O2 + 4.0 mM 1 (42%); lanes10-17 with drug 2: lane 10, without H2O2 (0%); lane 11, 50 μM H2O2 +100 μM 2 (2.0%); lane 12, 100 μM H2O2 + 200 μM 2 (4%); lane 13, 250μM H2O2 + 500 μM 2 (11%); lane 14, 500 μM H2O2 + 1.0mM 2 (17%); lane 15, 1.0 mM H2O2 + 2.0 mM 2 (27%); lane 16, 1.5 mM H2O2 +3.0 mM 2 (35%); lane 17, 2.0 mM H2O2 + 4.0 mM 2 (43%). Adapted with permission from Ref. [56]. Copyright 2011 American Chemical Society. d QCA is activated and degraded by H2O2 and acidic pH, leading to amplified oxidative stress and driving cells to undergo apoptotic death. e Representative images of mice bearing SW620 tumor xenografts. f Representative images of mice bearing DU145 tumor xenografts.
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    a Multifunctional H2O2-activatable nanoparticles for bioimaging and therapy. b The preparation of C-TBD NPs and illustration of the principle for chemiluminescence and 1O2 generation of C-TBD NPs in the presence of H2O2. c Schematic diagram of the hypothetical mechanism of C-TBD NPs and FEITC combination therapy. d Tumor growth curves with different therapies.
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    a Schematic diagram of the mechanism of apoptosis induced by CA-loaded HPG-2S-SN38 nanomicelles. b Cell viability was (A1, A2) MCF-7 cells, (B1, B2) HeLa cells and (C1, C2) HN-4 cells were treated with CA, SN38, HPG-2S-SN38 micelles after 48 h, physical mixture of SN38 CA and CA loaded HPG-2S-SN38 micelles were at various SN38 (A1, B1, C1) and CA (A2, B2, C2) concentrations. c Schematic illustration of light-assisted p53 gene delivery and PDT for cooperative anti-cancer therapy.
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    a Schematic of the oxidation-responsive morphological transformation of MPEG-IPDI-Se-Se-IPDI-PPG micelles. b XPS analysis of the model compound HOCH2CH2SeSeCH2CH2OH before and after oxidation in 0.5 wt% H2O2 solution. c 1H-NMR spectra of the model compound HOCH2CH2SeSeCH2CH2OH before (up) and after oxidation (down) in 0.5 wt% H2O2 solution.
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    a Schematic illustration of the formation of the PSe-Por micelles. After light irradiation, the oxidization product has anticancer activity. b Schematic diagrams for the preparation of catalase-loaded SeNPs and photodynamic treatment.
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    a Oxidation-responsive organotellurium-containing polymer micelles that could undergo a series of morphological changes triggered by ROS under biologically relevant conditions. b Visible-light responsive tellurium-containing multilayer film.

• A Review on Binderless Tungsten Carbide: Development and Application

  Jialin Sun1, *, Jun Zhao2, Zhifu Huang1, *, Ke Yan3, *, Xuehui Shen4, Jiandong Xing1, Yimin Gao1, Yongxin Jian1, Hejie Yang1, Bo Li1	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 13
  First Online: 30 December 2019 (Review)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-019-0346-1

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    Ashby diagrams for materials. Left: Young’s modulus v.s. strength, right: wear-rate constant vs. hardness. The red arrows point to tungsten carbides.
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    a Percentage of impurity phase W2C phase in sintered sample obtained by SPS at 1800 °C for 6 min under the pressure of 70 MPa as a function of C addition in powders. b XRD patterns of WC micro and WC ball milled with carbon addition, c WC+0.15%C and d WC+0.3%C SPS 2200 °C without holding time. e Schematic of abnormal grain growth due to addition of C.
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    a Schematic diagram illustrating different onset temperatures of sintering of nano- and micro-sized particles. Relative density of pure WC as a function of initial particle size in BTC b microsize and c nanosize. d Relative density of micro and nano WC vs sintering temperature, without holding time. e Schematic of the sintering mechanism of nano WC on the basis of the experimental shrinkage strain rate in a non-isothermal experiment. f Schematic diagrams and corresponding TEM micrographs revealing the contact state of WC and ZrC nano-particles during sintering.
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    a Variations of temperature and shrinkage displacement with heating time during high-frequency induction heated sintering of WC-xat% TiC hard materials (under 60 MPa pressure, 2800A). b Relative density as a function of TiC content. c Plot of WC phase lattice parameter as a function of TiC content produced by PCAS.
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    a Bulk density and relative density of WC-SiC composites. b Bulk density and relative density of WC-SiCw composites.
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    Densification behavior of a WC, SPSed at 2060 °C for 0 min, and b WC3A (WC-3wt% Al2O3) and WC10A (WC-10wt% Al2O3), SPSed at 1800 °C for 5 min. c Variations of temperature and shrinkage with heating time during the pulsed current activated sintering of WC-Al2O3 powder.
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    a Relative density obtained at different sintering temperatures with WC composites with 6 wt% ZrO2 (stabilized with varying amount of Y2O3) sinter-additive. Densification curves for b pure WC sintered at 1800 °C for holding 5 min, c WC3Z and WC10Z specimens sintered at 1600 °C for holding 5 min.
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    a Schematic representation of SPS equipment. b The formation mechanism of WC sintered under high pressure.
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    FE-SEM images of the polished samples showing the different dispersion states and morphologies of the toughening particulates: (a, A) WC-10vol% Al2O3, (b, B) WC-20vol% Al2O3, (c, C) WC-30vol% Al2O3, and (d, D) WC-40vol% Al2O3, composites sintered at 1540 °C for 90 min. FE-SEM images of Vickers indentation crack extension path of e WC-10vol% Al2O3, f WC-20vol% Al2O3, g WC-30vol% Al2O3, and h WC-40vol% Al2O3 composites sintered at 1540 °C for 90 min.
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    Toughening mechanisms in WC-Al2O3-TiC ceramics: a, b Al2O3 crack deflection, c Al2O3 transgranular, d microcracking, e WC crack bridging and f plate-like WC crack deflection.
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    a TEM micrographs of WC-TiC-Al2O3 ceramics, b-d dislocation morphology, and electron diffraction spots of e point 1, f point 2, and g point 3.
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    SEM images of indentation cracks observed in the sintered WC-Si3N4 composites: a Si3N4 whiskers pullout, b crack-bridging by Si3N4 whiskers.
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    a SEM micrographs and EDS maps of the distribution of b Al c Ti, and d W elements on the red line of nano-laminated WC-Al2O3-TiC ceramics.
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    FE-SEM micrographs of crack propagation in a WC-5vol% CNT and b WC-10vol% CNT. Typical SEM images of c the fracture surfaces and d crack details of WC-CNT composites.
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    a The distribution of MLG (color in red) in WC-based composites reinforced by 0.1 wt% MLG (by EBSD). b Raman spectroscopy of MLG and sintered ceramics.
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    Toughening mechanisms in WC-based ceramics reinforced by MLG: a graphene bending, b graphene wrapping, c graphene wall and network, d graphene interface debonding, e graphene intergranular bridging, f graphene pullout, g graphene deflection, h crack bridging, and i crack stopping.
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    a Plot of fracture toughness versus hardness of BTC. b Plot of hardness and c fracture toughness versus relative density. d Plot of hardness versus chord length of dense samples.
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    a Relative wear rates for the tested materials as shown in Table 7 abraded with diamond, SiC, and silica. 100 corresponds to Bl worn with diamond. b Wear rates for the different tested materials as shown in Table 8 abraded with silica and diamond.
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    Preferential orientation of MLG in WC ceramics after hot-pressing a in low magnification and b in high magnification, influence of MLG contents on c friction coefficient and d wear rates, surface topographies of wear tracks on e, f monolithic WC ceramics and g, h ceramics containing 0.1 wt% MLG.
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    Schematic of effect mechanism of MLG reinforced WC-based materials against AISI 1045 steel.

• Hierarchical N-doped Porous Carbons for Zn-air Batteries and Supercapacitors

  Beibei Guo1, 3, Ruguang Ma1, Zichuang Li1, Shaokui Guo1, Jun Luo3, Minghui Yang2, 4, Qian Liu1, 2, Tiju Thomas5, Jiacheng Wang1, 3, *	Abstract Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 20
  First Online: 10 January 2020 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-019-0364-z

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    Schematic representation of the preparation of N-doped porous carbon (NPC) via a mechanochemical route
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    a, b SEM, and c TEM images of NPC-1000; d-f SEM image of NPC-1000 and corresponding elemental mapping images of C and N
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    a XRD patterns and b Raman spectra of different NPCs; c nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherms of NPC-1000 (inset: pore-size distribution); d XPS spectra, and e, f high-resolution N1s and C1s spectra of NPC-1000
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    a Cyclic voltammograms (CVs), b ORR polarization curves (sweep rate: 10 mV s-1; rotation speed: 1600 rpm) of the as-prepared catalysts in an O2-saturated 0.1-M KOH electrolyte; c Tafel plots derived from b; d comparison of the onset (Eonset) and half-wave (E1/2) potentials of different catalysts; e LSV curves of NPC-1000 at different rotation speeds (insert shows the corresponding Koutecky−Levich plots); f peroxide yield and electron-transfer number of the as-prepared catalysts at various potentials based on the RRDE data
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    a Schematic illustration of the Zn–air battery with NPC-1000 as the air cathode; b image of the ZAB with a measured open-circuit voltage of 1.43 V; c discharge polarization curves and corresponding power-density plots; d, e charge/discharge cycling at 10 mA cm-2 (0.5 h for each cycle) for a rechargeable ZAB with NPC-1000 and NiFe-LDH as the air-cathode; f image of a Bluetooth headset powered by four ZABs in series
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    a CV curves at 50 mV s-1, b GCD curves at 0.5 A g-1, c variations in the specific capacitances at different current densities and d Nyquist plots of NPC-700, NPC-800, NPC-1000, and NPC-1100 in a 6-M KOH electrolyte; e cycling performance of NPC-800 at a current density of 10 A g-1; f deconvolution of the charge contribution as a function of the scan rate

• Nitrogen-doped Carbon Nanospheres Modified Graphitic Carbon Nitride

  Qiaoran Liu1, Hao Tian2, Zhenghua Dai3, Hongqi Sun4, Jian Liu2, Zhimin Ao3, Shaobin Wang5, *, Chen Han1, Shaomin Liu1, *	Abstract | Support Info Full Text Html PDF w/ Links Export Citation
  Nano-Micro Lett. (2020) 12: 24
  First Online: 17 January 2020 (Article)
  DOI:10.1007/s40820-019-0358-x

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    Proposed mechanism for photocatalytic process
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    a SEM images of GCN-C, b GCN-NC(5.4), c GCN-NC(11.9), and d GCN-NC(6.0). e, f TEM images of GCN-NC(6.0). g XRD patterns h N2 adsorption-desorption isotherms (h inset: the textural properties) of samples
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    a XPS full survey and b C 1s spectra of GCN, GCN-C, GCN-NC(5.4), GCN-NC(11.9), and GCN-NC(6.0)
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    a UV–vis diffuse reflectance absorption and b Mott-Schottky of GCN and NC loaded GCN. The inset in (a) shows plots of (ανh)2 vs. photon energy (hν) for the band gap energy; the inset in (b) shows the photoluminescence spectra of the samples
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    a Photocatalytic degradation of SCP over GCN, GCN-C, GCN-NC(5.4), GCN-NC(11.9), and GCN-NC(6.0) under UV light irradiation and b under visible light irradiation. c Comparison of the degradation rate constants of GCN, GCN-C, GCN-NC(5.4), GCN-NC(11.9), and GCN-NC(6.0) photocatalysts under UV and visible light irradiations. d The effect of temperature on degradation over GCN-NC(6.0)
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    a Transient photocurrent and b EIS curves of the GCN, GCN-C, GCN-NC(5.4), GCN-NC(11.9) and GCN-NC(6.0) in 0.1 M Na2SO4 solution. c Photocatalytic activity of GCN-NC(6.0) for SCP degradation with radical scavengers (formate, tert-butyl alcohol and p-benzoquinone) under visible light irradiations. d EPR spectra of GCN-NC(6.0) under UV-visible light irradiations with quenching of tert-butyl alcohol and p-benzoquinone
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    a The structure of GCN-C hybrid and b GCN-NC hybrid. In the simulation, a 2×2 supercell is taken, the grey, white, blue and red balls are standing for carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen and oxygen respectively
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    a The band structures of pristine GCN, b C/GCN, and c NC/GCN systems, the red dash line at energy 0 is the position of Fermi level
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    a The PDOS of C/GCN, b NC/GCN systems, and c GCN4 in different systems. The vertical dash lines are the position of the Fermi level
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    Mechanism scheme of GCN-NC in photocatalytic degradation of SCP