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2026 Volume 42 Issue 7
2026, 42(7): 1345-1367
doi: 10.11862/CJIC.20260066
Abstract:
The aqueous Zn-I2 battery has emerged as a promising candidate in the field of energy storage due to its abundant raw material reserves, low cost, intrinsic safety, and high theoretical energy density. However, both the cathode and anode of this battery system encounter a series of persistent challenges in conventional electrolyte systems (such as ZnSO4, Zn(CF3SO3)2, and ZnCl2) including the shuttle effect of polyiodides at the cathode, dissolution of active iodine species, formation of zinc dendrites, zinc corrosion, and parasitic side reactions. These issues collectively hinder the further advancement and practical application of aqueous Zn-I2 battery. The incorporation of functional additives into the electrolyte offers a viable strategy to simultaneously mitigate these interfacial problems, with the added advantage of operational simplicity conducive to large-scale industrial implementation. This paper focuses on electrolyte additives for aqueous Zn-I2 battery, systematically analyzing the critical challenges encountered in common electrolyte systems. It further reviews the mechanisms, functions, characteristics, and performance of various additive types (macromolecular, organic, and inorganic compounds) in aqueous Zn-I2 battery. Finally, future research directions for electrolyte additives are proposed, aiming to provide guidance for the rational screening and design of targeted functional additives toward achieving high-performance aqueous Zn-I2 battery.
The aqueous Zn-I2 battery has emerged as a promising candidate in the field of energy storage due to its abundant raw material reserves, low cost, intrinsic safety, and high theoretical energy density. However, both the cathode and anode of this battery system encounter a series of persistent challenges in conventional electrolyte systems (such as ZnSO4, Zn(CF3SO3)2, and ZnCl2) including the shuttle effect of polyiodides at the cathode, dissolution of active iodine species, formation of zinc dendrites, zinc corrosion, and parasitic side reactions. These issues collectively hinder the further advancement and practical application of aqueous Zn-I2 battery. The incorporation of functional additives into the electrolyte offers a viable strategy to simultaneously mitigate these interfacial problems, with the added advantage of operational simplicity conducive to large-scale industrial implementation. This paper focuses on electrolyte additives for aqueous Zn-I2 battery, systematically analyzing the critical challenges encountered in common electrolyte systems. It further reviews the mechanisms, functions, characteristics, and performance of various additive types (macromolecular, organic, and inorganic compounds) in aqueous Zn-I2 battery. Finally, future research directions for electrolyte additives are proposed, aiming to provide guidance for the rational screening and design of targeted functional additives toward achieving high-performance aqueous Zn-I2 battery.
2026, 42(7): 1368-1382
doi: 10.11862/CJIC.20260057
Abstract:
In the face of the global energy crisis and environmental pollution, hydrogen energy, as a clean, high- energy-density carrier, has garnered significant attention. Water electrolysis for hydrogen production, which converts renewable electrical energy into hydrogen, has become a mainstream technology for green hydrogen production. However, the electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) suffer from kinetic barriers, and the high cost and limited availability of traditional precious metal catalysts hinder their large-scale application. Graphene, with its exceptional conductivity, large specific surface area, excellent mechanical strength, and rich surface chemistry, shows great potential in the field of electrocatalysis. This paper systematically reviews the preparation techniques of graphene materials and their applications in water electrolysis for hydrogen production. Firstly, the advantages and disadvantages of various graphene preparation methods are analyzed from two categories: "top-down" and "bottom-up". In water electrolysis catalysts, graphene can serve as a catalyst support due to its high mechanical strength and electrical conductivity, and can also form active sites through defect engineering and heteroatom doping to develop high-performance catalysts. Moreover, due to its unique structure and properties, graphene plays a key role in coupled processes such as small molecule oxidation in water electrolysis, heavy water purification, seawater desalination, and direct seawater electrolysis. Additionally, the paper discusses the challenges graphene materials face in the widespread application of water electrolysis, focusing on challenges such as scalable production, stability, and defect control, and offers insights into the future development of graphene materials.
In the face of the global energy crisis and environmental pollution, hydrogen energy, as a clean, high- energy-density carrier, has garnered significant attention. Water electrolysis for hydrogen production, which converts renewable electrical energy into hydrogen, has become a mainstream technology for green hydrogen production. However, the electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) suffer from kinetic barriers, and the high cost and limited availability of traditional precious metal catalysts hinder their large-scale application. Graphene, with its exceptional conductivity, large specific surface area, excellent mechanical strength, and rich surface chemistry, shows great potential in the field of electrocatalysis. This paper systematically reviews the preparation techniques of graphene materials and their applications in water electrolysis for hydrogen production. Firstly, the advantages and disadvantages of various graphene preparation methods are analyzed from two categories: "top-down" and "bottom-up". In water electrolysis catalysts, graphene can serve as a catalyst support due to its high mechanical strength and electrical conductivity, and can also form active sites through defect engineering and heteroatom doping to develop high-performance catalysts. Moreover, due to its unique structure and properties, graphene plays a key role in coupled processes such as small molecule oxidation in water electrolysis, heavy water purification, seawater desalination, and direct seawater electrolysis. Additionally, the paper discusses the challenges graphene materials face in the widespread application of water electrolysis, focusing on challenges such as scalable production, stability, and defect control, and offers insights into the future development of graphene materials.
2026, 42(7): 1383-1411
doi: 10.11862/CJIC.20250344
Abstract:
Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), a class of nanoscale magnetic materials, possess excellent mechanical properties, high surface activity, and remarkable selectivity, which have established them as a prominent research focus in the field of advanced materials. Among various types of MNPs, Fe3O4 nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) exhibit distinct characteristics, including superparamagnetism, high coercivity, and a low Curie temperature. Thus, Fe3O4 NPs have been widely utilized as adsorbents, catalysts, and drug carriers in areas including environmental remediation, chemical synthesis, and biomedical therapies, exhibiting great potential for further development. The common preparation methods for Fe3O4 NPs, such as co-precipitation, thermal decomposition, sol-gel synthesis, and ball milling, have been systematically reviewed, and their respective advantages and limitations have been critically evaluated. For instance, the co-precipitation method enables the synthesis of Fe3O4 NPs with tunable particle sizes and morphologies by adjusting reaction parameters. However, the as-synthesized nanoparticles are highly susceptible to agglomeration and oxidation. The solvothermal route can yield Fe3O4 NPs with relatively small particle dimensions and uniform morphology, yet the crystallinity of the products may be limited, and the process tends to be costly. Although the sol-gel method features procedural simplicity, fewer synthetic steps, and high crystallinity of the resultant nanoparticles, it is plagued by low efficiency, high cost, and great challenges in scaling up for industrial production. Ball milling, while operationally simple, safe, and capable of high throughput, provides inadequate control over particle size and properties, necessitating strict control of processing parameters. Moreover, based on the integration strategies for combining functional materials with Fe3O4 NPs, surface modification and functionalization techniques are classified into several categories, including coating, loading, doping, and grafting, and the progress in each of these functionalization approaches has been summarized and discussed. Furthermore, the applications and emerging trends of Fe3O4 NPs and their composites in wastewater treatment, catalytic processes, biomedicine, and related fields have been comprehensively reviewed. Finally, future perspectives are put forward regarding the scalable production of Fe3O4 NPs via integrated methodologies, the development of more efficient and versatile functionalization protocols, and the exploration of their performance in complex operational environments.
Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), a class of nanoscale magnetic materials, possess excellent mechanical properties, high surface activity, and remarkable selectivity, which have established them as a prominent research focus in the field of advanced materials. Among various types of MNPs, Fe3O4 nanoparticles (Fe3O4 NPs) exhibit distinct characteristics, including superparamagnetism, high coercivity, and a low Curie temperature. Thus, Fe3O4 NPs have been widely utilized as adsorbents, catalysts, and drug carriers in areas including environmental remediation, chemical synthesis, and biomedical therapies, exhibiting great potential for further development. The common preparation methods for Fe3O4 NPs, such as co-precipitation, thermal decomposition, sol-gel synthesis, and ball milling, have been systematically reviewed, and their respective advantages and limitations have been critically evaluated. For instance, the co-precipitation method enables the synthesis of Fe3O4 NPs with tunable particle sizes and morphologies by adjusting reaction parameters. However, the as-synthesized nanoparticles are highly susceptible to agglomeration and oxidation. The solvothermal route can yield Fe3O4 NPs with relatively small particle dimensions and uniform morphology, yet the crystallinity of the products may be limited, and the process tends to be costly. Although the sol-gel method features procedural simplicity, fewer synthetic steps, and high crystallinity of the resultant nanoparticles, it is plagued by low efficiency, high cost, and great challenges in scaling up for industrial production. Ball milling, while operationally simple, safe, and capable of high throughput, provides inadequate control over particle size and properties, necessitating strict control of processing parameters. Moreover, based on the integration strategies for combining functional materials with Fe3O4 NPs, surface modification and functionalization techniques are classified into several categories, including coating, loading, doping, and grafting, and the progress in each of these functionalization approaches has been summarized and discussed. Furthermore, the applications and emerging trends of Fe3O4 NPs and their composites in wastewater treatment, catalytic processes, biomedicine, and related fields have been comprehensively reviewed. Finally, future perspectives are put forward regarding the scalable production of Fe3O4 NPs via integrated methodologies, the development of more efficient and versatile functionalization protocols, and the exploration of their performance in complex operational environments.
2026, 42(7): 1412-1419
doi: 10.11862/CJIC.20260131
Abstract:
Novel adsorbents for efficient natural gas purification should strike a balance between high selective adsorption performance and moderate adsorption enthalpy. To develop such materials, herein, a novel (3,6)-c topological metal-organic framework (MOF) featuring terminal coordinated acetate was constructed from [Fe3(μ3-O)(acetate)2(carboxyl)4(pyridyl)2] cluster and 5-(pyridin-4-yl)isophthalic acid, yielding [Fe2ⅢFeⅡ(μ3-O)(acetate)2(L)2(H2O)]·xGuest (designated as NJTU-Bai89; NJTU-Bai stands for Nanjing Tech University Bai′s group). The methyl group of acetate is impendent in the 1D pore channel, dividing it into the gourd-shaped one. Interestingly, NJTU-Bai89 exhibited high low-pressure C3H8 uptake and moderate adsorption enthalpy, owing to effective synergy between a suitable pore size and accessible nonpolar pore surfaces.
Novel adsorbents for efficient natural gas purification should strike a balance between high selective adsorption performance and moderate adsorption enthalpy. To develop such materials, herein, a novel (3,6)-c topological metal-organic framework (MOF) featuring terminal coordinated acetate was constructed from [Fe3(μ3-O)(acetate)2(carboxyl)4(pyridyl)2] cluster and 5-(pyridin-4-yl)isophthalic acid, yielding [Fe2ⅢFeⅡ(μ3-O)(acetate)2(L)2(H2O)]·xGuest (designated as NJTU-Bai89; NJTU-Bai stands for Nanjing Tech University Bai′s group). The methyl group of acetate is impendent in the 1D pore channel, dividing it into the gourd-shaped one. Interestingly, NJTU-Bai89 exhibited high low-pressure C3H8 uptake and moderate adsorption enthalpy, owing to effective synergy between a suitable pore size and accessible nonpolar pore surfaces.
2026, 42(7): 1534-1542
doi: 10.11862/CJIC.20260079
Abstract:
Two zero-dimensional inorganic-organic hybrids, (NMe3CH2Ph)2[Zn(H2O)6](SO4)2 (1) and (NMe3CH2Ph)4[Zn2Cl2(SO4)3] (2), were assembled from ZnSO4 and trimethylbenzylammonium chloride. Both feature an inorganic-organic sandwich structure with organic layers formed via aromatic stacking. 1 contains a {[Zn(H2O)6](SO4)2}2- hydrogen-bonded network, while 2 consists of binuclear zinc clusters. Both exhibited room-temperature phosphorescence. 1 showed a lifetime of 14.00 ms (invisible), whereas 2 displayed a lifetime of 290.00 ms with visible green afterglow. Furthermore, a series of host-guest doped afterglow materials was developed using compound 1 as the host matrix. Tuning the guest molecules enabled afterglow tuning from cyan to orange-yellow, with lifetimes enhanced up to about 65-fold versus the pristine host. Furthermore, the application of the doped systems in advanced anti-counterfeiting was preliminarily explored.
Two zero-dimensional inorganic-organic hybrids, (NMe3CH2Ph)2[Zn(H2O)6](SO4)2 (1) and (NMe3CH2Ph)4[Zn2Cl2(SO4)3] (2), were assembled from ZnSO4 and trimethylbenzylammonium chloride. Both feature an inorganic-organic sandwich structure with organic layers formed via aromatic stacking. 1 contains a {[Zn(H2O)6](SO4)2}2- hydrogen-bonded network, while 2 consists of binuclear zinc clusters. Both exhibited room-temperature phosphorescence. 1 showed a lifetime of 14.00 ms (invisible), whereas 2 displayed a lifetime of 290.00 ms with visible green afterglow. Furthermore, a series of host-guest doped afterglow materials was developed using compound 1 as the host matrix. Tuning the guest molecules enabled afterglow tuning from cyan to orange-yellow, with lifetimes enhanced up to about 65-fold versus the pristine host. Furthermore, the application of the doped systems in advanced anti-counterfeiting was preliminarily explored.
2026, 42(7): 1543-1554
doi: 10.11862/CJIC.20250380
Abstract:
A tetranuclear Ho(Ⅲ)-based complex [Ho4(L)2(dbm)6(CH3O)4] (1) was synthesized via solvothermal methods, where HL=(E)-2-hydroxy-3-methoxy-N′-[(6-methoxypyridin-2-yl)methylene]benzohydrazide and Hdbm=dibenzoylmethane. Structural characterization revealed that this complex is composed of four Ho3+ ions, six dbm- ions, two L- ions, and four coordinated CH3O- ions. The interaction mechanisms between ligand HL, 1 and calf thymus DNA (CT-DNA) were investigated by using UV-Vis spectroscopy, fluorescence titration, and cyclic voltammetry. The results indicated that 1 can interact with DNA via intercalation. Catalytic tests showed that 1 exhibits remarkable catalytic activity, capable of catalyzing the cycloaddition reaction of CO2 with epoxides and the Knoevenagel condensation reaction between malononitrile and aldehydes.
A tetranuclear Ho(Ⅲ)-based complex [Ho4(L)2(dbm)6(CH3O)4] (1) was synthesized via solvothermal methods, where HL=(E)-2-hydroxy-3-methoxy-N′-[(6-methoxypyridin-2-yl)methylene]benzohydrazide and Hdbm=dibenzoylmethane. Structural characterization revealed that this complex is composed of four Ho3+ ions, six dbm- ions, two L- ions, and four coordinated CH3O- ions. The interaction mechanisms between ligand HL, 1 and calf thymus DNA (CT-DNA) were investigated by using UV-Vis spectroscopy, fluorescence titration, and cyclic voltammetry. The results indicated that 1 can interact with DNA via intercalation. Catalytic tests showed that 1 exhibits remarkable catalytic activity, capable of catalyzing the cycloaddition reaction of CO2 with epoxides and the Knoevenagel condensation reaction between malononitrile and aldehydes.
2026, 42(7): 1555-1568
doi: 10.11862/CJIC.20260004
Abstract:
A series of MIL-101(Fe)/Cu2O heterojunction photocatalysts was successfully constructed by coupling highly active dodecahedral Cu2O with MIL-101(Fe) through a co-precipitation method. The catalytic performance of these materials was systematically evaluated under visible light using tetracycline as the target pollutant. The results indicated that when the mass fraction of MIL-101(Fe) was 20%, the composite material exhibited the best catalytic performance, with a tetracycline degradation rate of up to 87.37% after 100 min of illumination, significantly enhancing the photocatalytic degradation efficiency. The significant improvement in photocatalytic performance was mainly attributed to the tight interface coupling between the two components. Transient photocurrent response and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) demonstrated that the introduction of MIL-101(Fe) greatly enhanced the electron conduction ability of the composite system and accelerated charge migration. On the other hand, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV-Visible diffuse reflectance spectra (UV-Vis DRS), and Mott-Schottky characterizations, combined with electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) tests, confirmed the formation of an effective Z-scheme heterojunction between the two components. This Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst not only promotes the spatial separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs but also retains the stronger redox ability of the composite material, thereby synergistically achieving efficient degradation of pollutants.
A series of MIL-101(Fe)/Cu2O heterojunction photocatalysts was successfully constructed by coupling highly active dodecahedral Cu2O with MIL-101(Fe) through a co-precipitation method. The catalytic performance of these materials was systematically evaluated under visible light using tetracycline as the target pollutant. The results indicated that when the mass fraction of MIL-101(Fe) was 20%, the composite material exhibited the best catalytic performance, with a tetracycline degradation rate of up to 87.37% after 100 min of illumination, significantly enhancing the photocatalytic degradation efficiency. The significant improvement in photocatalytic performance was mainly attributed to the tight interface coupling between the two components. Transient photocurrent response and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) demonstrated that the introduction of MIL-101(Fe) greatly enhanced the electron conduction ability of the composite system and accelerated charge migration. On the other hand, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), UV-Visible diffuse reflectance spectra (UV-Vis DRS), and Mott-Schottky characterizations, combined with electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) tests, confirmed the formation of an effective Z-scheme heterojunction between the two components. This Z-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst not only promotes the spatial separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs but also retains the stronger redox ability of the composite material, thereby synergistically achieving efficient degradation of pollutants.
2026, 42(7): 1420-1428
doi: 10.11862/CJIC.20260101
Abstract:
In this paper, Ba3P4O13: Eu2+ phosphors were selected as the research object. Through partial replacement of Ba2+ ions with Gd3+/Y3+, we systematically investigated the effects of Gd3+/Y3+ doping on crystal phase transition and luminescent properties of Ba3P4O13: Eu2+ phosphors. Two series of phosphors with a fixed Eu2+ doping concentration (molar fraction) of 0.009, namely Ba2.991-1.5xP4O13: 0.009Eu2+, xGd3+ (x=0-0.080) and Ba2.991-1.5yP4O13: 0.009Eu2+, yY3+ (y=0-0.080), were synthesized via a high-temperature solid-state reaction under a reducing atmosphere. X-ray diffraction characterizations demonstrated that Gd3+/Y3+ doping could trigger a phase transition in Ba3P4O13 from the low-temperature phase to the high-temperature phase, and Gd3+ exhibited a more remarkable phase-inducing effect than Y3+. Fluorescence spectral measurements revealed that when the doping concentrations of Y3+ and Gd3+ were y=0.020 and x=0.020, the emission intensity of the sample increased by 15% and 59%, respectively. Moreover, as the doping concentration increased, the emission color of the samples achieved continuous tunability from blue to white, and further to yellow.
In this paper, Ba3P4O13: Eu2+ phosphors were selected as the research object. Through partial replacement of Ba2+ ions with Gd3+/Y3+, we systematically investigated the effects of Gd3+/Y3+ doping on crystal phase transition and luminescent properties of Ba3P4O13: Eu2+ phosphors. Two series of phosphors with a fixed Eu2+ doping concentration (molar fraction) of 0.009, namely Ba2.991-1.5xP4O13: 0.009Eu2+, xGd3+ (x=0-0.080) and Ba2.991-1.5yP4O13: 0.009Eu2+, yY3+ (y=0-0.080), were synthesized via a high-temperature solid-state reaction under a reducing atmosphere. X-ray diffraction characterizations demonstrated that Gd3+/Y3+ doping could trigger a phase transition in Ba3P4O13 from the low-temperature phase to the high-temperature phase, and Gd3+ exhibited a more remarkable phase-inducing effect than Y3+. Fluorescence spectral measurements revealed that when the doping concentrations of Y3+ and Gd3+ were y=0.020 and x=0.020, the emission intensity of the sample increased by 15% and 59%, respectively. Moreover, as the doping concentration increased, the emission color of the samples achieved continuous tunability from blue to white, and further to yellow.
2026, 42(7): 1429-1436
doi: 10.11862/CJIC.20260126
Abstract:
Reactions of (Et4N)[Tp*WS3] (A, Tp*=hydrotris(3, 5-dimethylpyrazolyl)borate) with [Cu(CH3CN)4]PF6 and 3-pyridinecarboxaldehyde (L1), 4-(2-aminoethyl)pyridine (L2), and 3-(4-pyridyl)propanoic acid (L3) in acetone (AC) or N, N-dimethylformamide (DMF), with the additional introduction of (Et4N)I as a bridging iodide source when employing L3, gave rise to three structurally distinct W/Cu/S cluster-based supramolecular compounds [Tp*WS3Cu3(L1)3(μ3-AC)](PF6)2 (1), [Tp*WS3Cu2(L2)(μ2-DMF)]2(PF6)2·2DMF (2·2DMF), and [Tp*WS3Cu3(μ4-I)0.5(L3)2]2(PF6)3·2AC (3·2AC), respectively. All three clusters were structurally characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. The [Tp*WS3Cu3(L1)3(μ3-AC)]2+ dication of 1 adopts a distorted cubane structure. The [Tp*WS3Cu2(L2)(μ2-DMF)]22+ dication of 2·2DMF consists of two corner-deficient cubane [Tp*WS3Cu2(μ2-DMF)]+ units bridged by a pair of L2 ligands to form a double corner-deficient cubane structure. The [Tp*WS3Cu3(μ4-I)0.5(L3)2]23+ trication of 3·2AC is composed of two corner-deficient cubane [Tp*WS3Cu3(L3)2]2+ units linked by μ4-I- bridges, giving a double-cubane architecture. The third-order nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of 1, 2·2DMF, and 3·2AC in solution were measured using the Z-scan technique, and they exhibited good third-order NLO responses.
Reactions of (Et4N)[Tp*WS3] (A, Tp*=hydrotris(3, 5-dimethylpyrazolyl)borate) with [Cu(CH3CN)4]PF6 and 3-pyridinecarboxaldehyde (L1), 4-(2-aminoethyl)pyridine (L2), and 3-(4-pyridyl)propanoic acid (L3) in acetone (AC) or N, N-dimethylformamide (DMF), with the additional introduction of (Et4N)I as a bridging iodide source when employing L3, gave rise to three structurally distinct W/Cu/S cluster-based supramolecular compounds [Tp*WS3Cu3(L1)3(μ3-AC)](PF6)2 (1), [Tp*WS3Cu2(L2)(μ2-DMF)]2(PF6)2·2DMF (2·2DMF), and [Tp*WS3Cu3(μ4-I)0.5(L3)2]2(PF6)3·2AC (3·2AC), respectively. All three clusters were structurally characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry. The [Tp*WS3Cu3(L1)3(μ3-AC)]2+ dication of 1 adopts a distorted cubane structure. The [Tp*WS3Cu2(L2)(μ2-DMF)]22+ dication of 2·2DMF consists of two corner-deficient cubane [Tp*WS3Cu2(μ2-DMF)]+ units bridged by a pair of L2 ligands to form a double corner-deficient cubane structure. The [Tp*WS3Cu3(μ4-I)0.5(L3)2]23+ trication of 3·2AC is composed of two corner-deficient cubane [Tp*WS3Cu3(L3)2]2+ units linked by μ4-I- bridges, giving a double-cubane architecture. The third-order nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of 1, 2·2DMF, and 3·2AC in solution were measured using the Z-scan technique, and they exhibited good third-order NLO responses.
2026, 42(7): 1437-1452
doi: 10.11862/CJIC.20260043
Abstract:
A series of TiO2/SGFGDA composite photocatalytic materials were prepared using industrial solid waste Sangang flu gas desulfurization ash (SGFGDA) and industrial titanium gel (TG) as precursors via impregnation‑ loading method. Characterization results from X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and photoelectrochemical tests revealed that TiO2 particles were uniformly dispersed on the surface of SGFGDA, forming a tight and strong interfacial interaction between the two components, which effectively promoted the separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs. The TiO2 loading amount significantly influenced the photocatalytic degradation performance of the composites toward formaldehyde (HCHO). The sample (TiO2/SGFGDA-40) with TiO2 loading amount (mass fraction) of 40% exhibited optimal HCHO degradation performance under ultraviolet light irradiation, with a degradation efficiency of 87% in 4 h. This performance was significantly superior to that of pure TiO2 and its physical mixture. Systematic comparative studies reveal that the composite obtained by combining SGFGDA with TiO2 outperformed conventional supports in terms of photocatalytic HCHO degradation. Moreover, it can be found that the photocatalytic activity of the flue gas desulfurization ash (FGDA) from different sources-based composites is closely correlated with the CaSO3·0.5H2O content in the FGDA. Furthermore, the above-mentioned powder composite with optimal performance was fabricated into a putty powder coating. The coating retained 80% of the HCHO degradation efficiency after 4 h of ultraviolet light irradiation and retained stable performance over five cycles. It showed good compatibility with common building additives, demonstrating promising potential for engineering applications. Under 72-hour solar irradiation, the optimal powder composite TiO2/SGFGDA-40 achieved 24% HCHO degradation efficiency, comparable to powdered P25 (26%). Its derived putty powder coating exhibited enhanced efficiency of 35%, significantly higher than the putty powder coating prepared by mixing SGFGDA and P25 (19%).
A series of TiO2/SGFGDA composite photocatalytic materials were prepared using industrial solid waste Sangang flu gas desulfurization ash (SGFGDA) and industrial titanium gel (TG) as precursors via impregnation‑ loading method. Characterization results from X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and photoelectrochemical tests revealed that TiO2 particles were uniformly dispersed on the surface of SGFGDA, forming a tight and strong interfacial interaction between the two components, which effectively promoted the separation of photogenerated electron-hole pairs. The TiO2 loading amount significantly influenced the photocatalytic degradation performance of the composites toward formaldehyde (HCHO). The sample (TiO2/SGFGDA-40) with TiO2 loading amount (mass fraction) of 40% exhibited optimal HCHO degradation performance under ultraviolet light irradiation, with a degradation efficiency of 87% in 4 h. This performance was significantly superior to that of pure TiO2 and its physical mixture. Systematic comparative studies reveal that the composite obtained by combining SGFGDA with TiO2 outperformed conventional supports in terms of photocatalytic HCHO degradation. Moreover, it can be found that the photocatalytic activity of the flue gas desulfurization ash (FGDA) from different sources-based composites is closely correlated with the CaSO3·0.5H2O content in the FGDA. Furthermore, the above-mentioned powder composite with optimal performance was fabricated into a putty powder coating. The coating retained 80% of the HCHO degradation efficiency after 4 h of ultraviolet light irradiation and retained stable performance over five cycles. It showed good compatibility with common building additives, demonstrating promising potential for engineering applications. Under 72-hour solar irradiation, the optimal powder composite TiO2/SGFGDA-40 achieved 24% HCHO degradation efficiency, comparable to powdered P25 (26%). Its derived putty powder coating exhibited enhanced efficiency of 35%, significantly higher than the putty powder coating prepared by mixing SGFGDA and P25 (19%).
2026, 42(7): 1453-1462
doi: 10.11862/CJIC.20260033
Abstract:
A new azide bridged tetranuclear Ho(Ⅲ)-based complex with the formula[Ho4(L)4(NO3)2(N3)2(μ2-N3)4]·CH3OH (1) has been constructed via the solvothermal method by using Schiff base ligands (HL=N′-[(6-methoxypyridin-2-yl)methylidene]pyridine-2-carbohydrazide), Ho(NO3)3·6H2O, and NaN3. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction reveals that the structure of complex 1 is mainly composed of four Ho(Ⅲ) ions, four L- ions, two NO3- ions, two N3- ions and four μ2-N3- ions. The four central Ho(Ⅲ) ions are connected by four μ2-O atoms and four μ3-N3- atoms forming a parallelogram Ho4 core. The interaction between complex 1 and calf thymus DNA was studied by cyclic voltammetry, gel electrophoresis, ultraviolet spectroscopy, and fluorescence spectroscopy. The results revealed that complex 1 could bind to calf thymus DNA mainly by intercalation.
A new azide bridged tetranuclear Ho(Ⅲ)-based complex with the formula[Ho4(L)4(NO3)2(N3)2(μ2-N3)4]·CH3OH (1) has been constructed via the solvothermal method by using Schiff base ligands (HL=N′-[(6-methoxypyridin-2-yl)methylidene]pyridine-2-carbohydrazide), Ho(NO3)3·6H2O, and NaN3. Single-crystal X-ray diffraction reveals that the structure of complex 1 is mainly composed of four Ho(Ⅲ) ions, four L- ions, two NO3- ions, two N3- ions and four μ2-N3- ions. The four central Ho(Ⅲ) ions are connected by four μ2-O atoms and four μ3-N3- atoms forming a parallelogram Ho4 core. The interaction between complex 1 and calf thymus DNA was studied by cyclic voltammetry, gel electrophoresis, ultraviolet spectroscopy, and fluorescence spectroscopy. The results revealed that complex 1 could bind to calf thymus DNA mainly by intercalation.
2026, 42(7): 1463-1474
doi: 10.11862/CJIC.20260032
Abstract:
The Au and Pt nanoparticles-loaded nickel-iron layered double hydroxide (NiFe-LDH) catalyst (AuPt-NiFe-LDH-NF, NF was the nickel foam) was prepared by electrodeposition and immersion electroreduction methods. Electrochemical measurement results demonstrated that the catalyst exhibited excellent catalytic activities towards the alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), requiring only 17 mV overpotential to achieve a current density of 10 mA·cm-2, which was superior to that of commercial Pt/C electrodes. In-situ electrochemical impedance spectra (EIS) results revealed that the Pt introduction onto the NiFe-LDH-NF support improved the charge transfer capability, accelerated the Volmer step by avoiding the adsorption competition between H and OH over the Pt and Ni dual adsorption sites. In addition, more electronegative metal Au stabilized the adsorbed water intermediates via formed hydrogen bonding network with the interfacial water over Pt and Au sites, and accelerated the OH- transfer to the interface through the Grotthuss mechanism during water splitting. A solar-to-hydrogen efficiency of 17.2% was realized by connecting GaInP2/GaInAs/Ge solar cells with AuPt-NiFe-LDH-NF electrode.
The Au and Pt nanoparticles-loaded nickel-iron layered double hydroxide (NiFe-LDH) catalyst (AuPt-NiFe-LDH-NF, NF was the nickel foam) was prepared by electrodeposition and immersion electroreduction methods. Electrochemical measurement results demonstrated that the catalyst exhibited excellent catalytic activities towards the alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), requiring only 17 mV overpotential to achieve a current density of 10 mA·cm-2, which was superior to that of commercial Pt/C electrodes. In-situ electrochemical impedance spectra (EIS) results revealed that the Pt introduction onto the NiFe-LDH-NF support improved the charge transfer capability, accelerated the Volmer step by avoiding the adsorption competition between H and OH over the Pt and Ni dual adsorption sites. In addition, more electronegative metal Au stabilized the adsorbed water intermediates via formed hydrogen bonding network with the interfacial water over Pt and Au sites, and accelerated the OH- transfer to the interface through the Grotthuss mechanism during water splitting. A solar-to-hydrogen efficiency of 17.2% was realized by connecting GaInP2/GaInAs/Ge solar cells with AuPt-NiFe-LDH-NF electrode.
2026, 42(7): 1475-1484
doi: 10.11862/CJIC.20260025
Abstract:
A 3D lanthanum-based metal-organic framework, {[La(L)2]Cl·CH3CN}n (La-MOF), was synthesized using 1, 3-bis(4-carboxybenzyl)-4-methylimidazolium chloride ((H2L)Cl) as the ligand. The heterogeneous catalyst Pd-NHC@La-MOF (1) was subsequently prepared via post-synthetic modification, wherein active palladium-N-heterocyclic carbene (Pd-NHC) sites were immobilized through the reaction of La-MOF with Pd(OAc)2. Comprehensive characterization (powder X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis) confirmed that the material retained high crystallinity, uniform Pd-NHC dispersion, and remarkable thermal stability. Catalyst 1 exhibited excellent performance in the Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reaction of bromobenzene and phenylboronic acid under mild conditions, achieving a yield of over 99%. Furthermore, the catalyst demonstrated broad substrate adaptability. Notably, it maintained a yield of over 88% over three consecutive cycles without significant structural degradation.
A 3D lanthanum-based metal-organic framework, {[La(L)2]Cl·CH3CN}n (La-MOF), was synthesized using 1, 3-bis(4-carboxybenzyl)-4-methylimidazolium chloride ((H2L)Cl) as the ligand. The heterogeneous catalyst Pd-NHC@La-MOF (1) was subsequently prepared via post-synthetic modification, wherein active palladium-N-heterocyclic carbene (Pd-NHC) sites were immobilized through the reaction of La-MOF with Pd(OAc)2. Comprehensive characterization (powder X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis) confirmed that the material retained high crystallinity, uniform Pd-NHC dispersion, and remarkable thermal stability. Catalyst 1 exhibited excellent performance in the Suzuki-Miyaura cross-coupling reaction of bromobenzene and phenylboronic acid under mild conditions, achieving a yield of over 99%. Furthermore, the catalyst demonstrated broad substrate adaptability. Notably, it maintained a yield of over 88% over three consecutive cycles without significant structural degradation.
2026, 42(7): 1485-1494
doi: 10.11862/CJIC.20260019
Abstract:
In this work, PEDOT/MXene composite electrodes (PEDOT=poly(3, 4-ethylenedioxythiophene)) were successfully fabricated via a facile one-step electrochemical polymerization approach, wherein 2D MXene (Ti3C2Tx) nanosheets served as templates to facilitate the dispersed growth of PEDOT on their surface. To optimize the electrochemical capacitive performance of the resultant electrodes, a systematic investigation was conducted to elucidate the effects of ten distinct electropolymerization conditions on the capacitive properties of the as-prepared PEDOT/MXene electrodes. Electrochemical measurements suggest that the incorporation of MXene remarkably enhances the electrochemical performance of PEDOT-based electrodes. This can be attributed to the fact that PEDOT is coated on the surface of MXene nanosheets, thereby achieving homogeneous dispersion of PEDOT. Notably, the electrode synthesized via the galvanostatic method at a current density of 1 mA·cm-2 delivered the optimal capacitive performance, achieving an areal capacitance of 236.3 mF·cm-2 at 0.5 mA·cm-2, which was 2.3-fold higher than that of the PEDOT electrode. In terms of cycling stability, the PEDOT/MXene composite electrode retained 87.8% of its initial capacitance after 10 000 charge-discharge cycles, whereas the PEDOT electrode only maintained 42.5% of its initial capacitance.
In this work, PEDOT/MXene composite electrodes (PEDOT=poly(3, 4-ethylenedioxythiophene)) were successfully fabricated via a facile one-step electrochemical polymerization approach, wherein 2D MXene (Ti3C2Tx) nanosheets served as templates to facilitate the dispersed growth of PEDOT on their surface. To optimize the electrochemical capacitive performance of the resultant electrodes, a systematic investigation was conducted to elucidate the effects of ten distinct electropolymerization conditions on the capacitive properties of the as-prepared PEDOT/MXene electrodes. Electrochemical measurements suggest that the incorporation of MXene remarkably enhances the electrochemical performance of PEDOT-based electrodes. This can be attributed to the fact that PEDOT is coated on the surface of MXene nanosheets, thereby achieving homogeneous dispersion of PEDOT. Notably, the electrode synthesized via the galvanostatic method at a current density of 1 mA·cm-2 delivered the optimal capacitive performance, achieving an areal capacitance of 236.3 mF·cm-2 at 0.5 mA·cm-2, which was 2.3-fold higher than that of the PEDOT electrode. In terms of cycling stability, the PEDOT/MXene composite electrode retained 87.8% of its initial capacitance after 10 000 charge-discharge cycles, whereas the PEDOT electrode only maintained 42.5% of its initial capacitance.
2026, 42(7): 1495-1504
doi: 10.11862/CJIC.20260016
Abstract:
Accurately targeting damaged chondrocytes for the diagnosis and treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) remains a formidable challenge. In this study, we designed and prepared an ultrasmall quercetin-gadolinium (CPQGd) nanoprobe assembly. The negative charge on the surface of CPQGd nanoprobes enables them to target degenerated chondrocytes through electrostatic interactions, as these cells typically carry weak negative charges due to pathological changes. Thanks to the strong antioxidant properties of quercetin, CPQGd nanoprobes exhibited significant multi- enzyme mimetic activity, effectively mimicking the functions of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD). This multi-pathway catalytic activity promotes the comprehensive clearance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in degenerated chondrocytes, reducing oxidative stress in the OA microenvironment. In addition to its therapeutic function, CPQGd nanoprobes also integrate dual-mode imaging capabilities. The doped gadolinium ions provide high-resolution T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), while the intrinsic fluorescence of TCPP endows CPQGd with sensitive fluorescence properties. This collaborative imaging platform not only enables precise localization of degenerated chondrocytes by probes but also enables non-invasive real-time monitoring of their biological distribution and therapeutic response.
Accurately targeting damaged chondrocytes for the diagnosis and treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) remains a formidable challenge. In this study, we designed and prepared an ultrasmall quercetin-gadolinium (CPQGd) nanoprobe assembly. The negative charge on the surface of CPQGd nanoprobes enables them to target degenerated chondrocytes through electrostatic interactions, as these cells typically carry weak negative charges due to pathological changes. Thanks to the strong antioxidant properties of quercetin, CPQGd nanoprobes exhibited significant multi- enzyme mimetic activity, effectively mimicking the functions of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD). This multi-pathway catalytic activity promotes the comprehensive clearance of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in degenerated chondrocytes, reducing oxidative stress in the OA microenvironment. In addition to its therapeutic function, CPQGd nanoprobes also integrate dual-mode imaging capabilities. The doped gadolinium ions provide high-resolution T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), while the intrinsic fluorescence of TCPP endows CPQGd with sensitive fluorescence properties. This collaborative imaging platform not only enables precise localization of degenerated chondrocytes by probes but also enables non-invasive real-time monitoring of their biological distribution and therapeutic response.
2026, 42(7): 1505-1512
doi: 10.11862/CJIC.20260003
Abstract:
β-MnO2 nanowires were successfully prepared, and their well-defined crystalline structure and morphology were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Using the typical organic pollutant tannic acid (TA) as the target degradation substance, the oxidative degradation performance of β-MnO2 activated peroxymonosulfate (PMS) toward tannic acid (TA)was systematically investigated. Key influencing factors, including PMS dosage, catalyst amount, initial solution pH, and reaction temperature, were thoroughly examined. The experimental results demonstrated that the β-MnO2/PMS system exhibited excellent TA removal capability. The TA removal efficiency increased with higher PMS and MnO2 dosages, and optimal degradation performance was achieved under acidic conditions. Elevated temperatures accelerated the reaction process, with an apparent activation energy of 11.45 kJ·mol-1. Free radical quenching experiments further confirmed that sulfate radicals (SO₄-·) were the primary active species involved in the reaction.
β-MnO2 nanowires were successfully prepared, and their well-defined crystalline structure and morphology were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Using the typical organic pollutant tannic acid (TA) as the target degradation substance, the oxidative degradation performance of β-MnO2 activated peroxymonosulfate (PMS) toward tannic acid (TA)was systematically investigated. Key influencing factors, including PMS dosage, catalyst amount, initial solution pH, and reaction temperature, were thoroughly examined. The experimental results demonstrated that the β-MnO2/PMS system exhibited excellent TA removal capability. The TA removal efficiency increased with higher PMS and MnO2 dosages, and optimal degradation performance was achieved under acidic conditions. Elevated temperatures accelerated the reaction process, with an apparent activation energy of 11.45 kJ·mol-1. Free radical quenching experiments further confirmed that sulfate radicals (SO₄-·) were the primary active species involved in the reaction.
2026, 42(7): 1513-1522
doi: 10.11862/CJIC.20250205
Abstract:
By virtue of the solvothermal synthetic method, 1,1′-dimethyl-4,4′-bipyridinium cation (methyl viologen cation, MV2+) and 1,1′-diethyl-4,4′-bipyridinium cation (ethyl viologen cation, EV2+) were embedded into the framework of Zn-NH2-BDC, achieving two viologen-modified metal-organic frameworks: {(MV)[Zn2(NH2-BDC)3]}n (1), {(EV[Zn3(NH2-BDC)4]}n (2) (NH2-H2BDC=2-aminoterephthalic acid). The two complexes have shown considerable catalytic activities under mild conditions, namely, they could be used as efficient and recyclable catalysts for the Knoevenagel condensation-Michael addition cyclization reaction, and consequently, to obtain 4H-pyran derivatives, and the yield could reach over 98%. Remarkably, two catalysts could be reused at least five times while maintaining their catalytic activities.
By virtue of the solvothermal synthetic method, 1,1′-dimethyl-4,4′-bipyridinium cation (methyl viologen cation, MV2+) and 1,1′-diethyl-4,4′-bipyridinium cation (ethyl viologen cation, EV2+) were embedded into the framework of Zn-NH2-BDC, achieving two viologen-modified metal-organic frameworks: {(MV)[Zn2(NH2-BDC)3]}n (1), {(EV[Zn3(NH2-BDC)4]}n (2) (NH2-H2BDC=2-aminoterephthalic acid). The two complexes have shown considerable catalytic activities under mild conditions, namely, they could be used as efficient and recyclable catalysts for the Knoevenagel condensation-Michael addition cyclization reaction, and consequently, to obtain 4H-pyran derivatives, and the yield could reach over 98%. Remarkably, two catalysts could be reused at least five times while maintaining their catalytic activities.
2026, 42(7): 1523-1533
doi: 10.11862/CJIC.20260038
Abstract:
Herein, a stable Al2O3/GaN photocatalyst with an Al2O3 surface stabilizing layer for water splitting was prepared by a sol-gel method. The Al2O3 layer suppressed both the photo-corrosion of GaN induced by nascent generated O2 and the consequent H2-O2 recombination reaction. Electrochemical analysis, distribution of relaxation time, and steady-state/transient fluorescence spectroscopy spectra demonstrated that the Al2O3 layer not only significantly enhances charge separation and transport efficiency and prolongs carrier lifetime, but also remarkedly reduces overpotential and accelerates surface reaction kinetics for water splitting. The Al2O3/GaN catalyst achieved overall water splitting under full-spectrum irradiation and maintained stable performance for over 9 h without decay.
Herein, a stable Al2O3/GaN photocatalyst with an Al2O3 surface stabilizing layer for water splitting was prepared by a sol-gel method. The Al2O3 layer suppressed both the photo-corrosion of GaN induced by nascent generated O2 and the consequent H2-O2 recombination reaction. Electrochemical analysis, distribution of relaxation time, and steady-state/transient fluorescence spectroscopy spectra demonstrated that the Al2O3 layer not only significantly enhances charge separation and transport efficiency and prolongs carrier lifetime, but also remarkedly reduces overpotential and accelerates surface reaction kinetics for water splitting. The Al2O3/GaN catalyst achieved overall water splitting under full-spectrum irradiation and maintained stable performance for over 9 h without decay.
