Showing papers by "Hua Zhang published in 2015"

Ultrathin Two-Dimensional Nanomaterials.

Abstract: The past decade has witnessed an extraordinary increase in research progress on ultrathin two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials in the fields of condensed matter physics, materials science, and chemistry after the exfoliation of graphene from graphite in 2004. This unique class of nanomaterials has shown many unprecedented properties and thus is being explored for numerous promising applications. In this Perspective, I briefly review the state of the art in the development of ultrathin 2D nanomaterials and highlight their unique advantages. Then, I discuss the typical synthetic methods and some promising applications of ultrathin 2D nanomaterials together with some personal insights on the challenges in this research area. Finally, on the basis of the current achievement on ultrathin 2D nanomaterials, I give some personal perspectives on potential future research directions.

Two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenide nanosheet-based composites.

Abstract: Ultrathin two-dimensional (2D) nanosheets of layered transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs), such as MoS2, TiS2, TaS2, WS2, MoSe2, WSe2, etc., are emerging as a class of key materials in chemistry and electronics due to their intriguing chemical and electronic properties. The ability to prepare these TMD nanosheets in high yield and large scale via various methods has led to increasing studies on their hybridization with other materials to create novel functional composites, aiming to engineer their chemical, physical and electronic properties and thus achieve good performance for some specific applications. In this critical review, we will introduce the recent progress in hybrid nanoarchitectures based on 2D TMD nanosheets. Their synthetic strategies, properties and applications are systematically summarized and discussed, with emphasis on those new appealing structures, properties and functions. In addition, we will also give some perspectives on the challenges and opportunities in this promising research area.

Ultrathin 2D Metal–Organic Framework Nanosheets

Abstract: A facile surfactant-assisted bottom-up synthetic method to prepare a series of freestanding ultrathin 2D M-TCPP (M = Zn, Cu, Cd or Co, TCPP = tetrakis(4-carboxyphenyl)porphyrin) nanosheets with a thickness of sub-10 nm is developed. As a proof-of-concept application, some of them are successfully used as new platforms for DNA detection. The Cu-TCPP nanosheet-based sensor shows excellent fluorescent sensing performance and is used for the simultaneous detection of multiple DNA targets.

Two-dimensional graphene analogues for biomedical applications.

Abstract: The increasing demand of clinical biomedicine and fast development of nanobiotechnology has substantially promoted the generation of a variety of organic/inorganic nanosystems for biomedical applications. Biocompatible two-dimensional (2D) graphene analogues (e.g., nanosheets of transition metal dichalcogenides, transition metal oxides, g-C3N4, Bi2Se3, BN, etc.), which are referred to as 2D-GAs, have emerged as a new unique family of nanomaterials that show unprecedented advantages and superior performances in biomedicine due to their unique compositional, structural and physicochemical features. In this review, we summarize the state-of-the-art progress of this dynamically developed material family with a particular focus on biomedical applications. After the introduction, the second section of the article summarizes a range of synthetic methods for new types of 2D-GAs as well as their surface functionalization. The subsequent section provides a snapshot on the use of these biocompatible 2D-GAs for a broad spectrum of biomedical applications, including therapeutic (photothermal/photodynamic therapy, chemotherapy and synergistic therapy), diagnostic (fluorescent/magnetic resonance/computed tomography/photoacoustic imaging) and theranostic (concurrent diagnostic imaging and therapy) applications, especially on oncology. In addition, we briefly present the biosensing applications of these 2D-GAs for the detection of biomacromolecules and their in vitro/in vivo biosafety evaluations. The last section summarizes some critical unresolved issues, possible challenges/obstacles and also proposes future perspectives related to the rational design and construction of 2D-GAs for biomedical engineering, which are believed to promote their clinical translations for benefiting the personalized medicine and human health.

Two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) nanosheets

Abstract: This special issue is about two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (2D TMDs), a family of materials consisting of over 40 compounds with the generalized formula of MX2, where M is a transition metal typically from groups 4–7, and X is a chalcogen such as S, Se or Te. Bulk TMDs have been widely studied over several decades because it is possible to formulate compounds with disparate electronic structures. In the bulk form, MX2 compounds are layered materials (or van der Waals solids) in which there is strong intralayer bonding and weak interlayer bonding. Each individual layer of the TMDs consists of three atomic layers in which the transition metal is sandwiched by two chalcogens. Furthermore, the chalcogen atoms are saturated and therefore are not highly reactive. These features allow for the attainment of individual layers of the TMDs by several exfoliation or vapor deposition methods. The isolation of monolayers of TMDs leads to the dramatic changes in their properties, primarily due to the confinement of charge carriers in two dimensions (xand y-directions) due to the absence of interactions in the z-direction. Thus, singlelayered nanosheets are two-dimensional materials that possess dramatically different a Materials Science and Engineering, Rutgers University, 607 Taylor Road, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA. E-mail: manish1@rci.rutgers.edu b Center for Nanochemistry (CNC), Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100871, People’s Republic of China. E-mail: zfliu@pku.edu.cn c School of Materials Science and Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore 639798, Singapore. E-mail: hzhang@ntu.edu.sg

One-pot Synthesis of CdS Nanocrystals Hybridized with Single-Layer Transition-Metal Dichalcogenide Nanosheets for Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution†

Abstract: Exploration of low-cost and earth-abundant photocatalysts for highly efficient solar photocatalytic water splitting is of great importance. Although transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) showed outstanding performance as co-catalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), designing TMD-hybridized photocatalysts with abundant active sites for the HER still remains challenge. Here, a facile one-pot wet-chemical method is developed to prepare MS2–CdS (M=W or Mo) nanohybrids. Surprisedly, in the obtained nanohybrids, single-layer MS2 nanosheets with lateral size of 4–10 nm selectively grow on the Cd-rich (0001) surface of wurtzite CdS nanocrystals. These MS2–CdS nanohybrids possess a large number of edge sites in the MS2 layers, which are active sites for the HER. The photocatalytic performances of WS2–CdS and MoS2–CdS nanohybrids towards the HER under visible light irradiation (>420 nm) are about 16 and 12 times that of pure CdS, respectively. Importantly, the MS2–CdS nanohybrids showed enhanced stability after a long-time test (16 h), and 70 % of catalytic activity still remained.

Black Phosphorus Quantum Dots

Abstract: As a unique two-dimensional nanomaterial, layered black phosphorus (BP) nanosheets have shown promising applications in electronics. Although mechanical exfoliation was successfully used to prepare BP nanosheets, it is still a challenge to produce novel BP nanostructures in high yield. A facile top-down approach for preparation of black phosphorus quantum dots (BPQDs) in solution is presented. The obtained BPQDs have a lateral size of 4.9±1.6 nm and thickness of 1.9±0.9 nm (ca. 4±2 layers). As a proof-of-concept application, by using BPQDs mixed with polyvinylpyrrolidone as the active layer, a flexible memory device was successfully fabricated that exhibits a nonvolatile rewritable memory effect with a high ON/OFF current ratio and good stability.

Wet-chemical synthesis and applications of non-layer structured two-dimensional nanomaterials

Abstract: Non-layer structured nanomaterials with single- or few-layer thickness have two-dimensional sheet-like structures and possess intriguing properties. Recent years have seen major advances in development of a host of non-layer structured ultrathin two-dimensional nanomaterials such as noble metals, metal oxides and metal chalcogenides. The wet-chemical synthesis has emerged as the most promising route towards high-yield and mass production of such nanomaterials. These nanomaterials are now finding increasing applications in a wide range of areas including catalysis, energy production and storage, sensor and nanotherapy, to name but a few.

Graphene Quantum Dots Coated VO2 Arrays for Highly Durable Electrodes for Li and Na Ion Batteries

Abstract: Nanoscale surface engineering is playing important role in enhancing the performance of battery electrode. VO2 is one of high-capacity but less-stable materials and has been used mostly in the form of powders for Li-ion battery cathode with mediocre performance. In this work, we design a new type of binder-free cathode by bottom-up growth of biface VO2 arrays directly on a graphene network for both high-performance Li-ion and Na-ion battery cathodes. More importantly, graphene quantum dots (GQDs) are coated onto the VO2 surfaces as a highly efficient surface “sensitizer” and protection to further boost the electrochemical properties. The integrated electrodes deliver a Na storage capacity of 306 mAh/g at 100 mA/g, and a capacity of more than 110 mAh/g after 1500 cycles at 18 A/g. Our result on Na-ion battery may pave the way to next generation postlithium batteries.

Hierarchical Ni-Mo-S nanosheets on carbon fiber cloth: A flexible electrode for efficient hydrogen generation in neutral electrolyte.

Abstract: A unique functional electrode made of hierarchal Ni-Mo-S nanosheets with abundant exposed edges anchored on conductive and flexible carbon fiber cloth, referred to as Ni-Mo-S/C, has been developed through a facile biomolecule-assisted hydrothermal method. The incorporation of Ni atoms in Mo-S plays a crucial role in tuning its intrinsic catalytic property by creating substantial defect sites as well as modifying the morphology of Ni-Mo-S network at atomic scale, resulting in an impressive enhancement in the catalytic activity. The Ni-Mo-S/C electrode exhibits a large cathodic current and a low onset potential for hydrogen evolution reaction in neutral electrolyte (pH ~7), for example, current density of 10 mA/cm2 at a very small overpotential of 200 mV. Furthermore, the Ni-Mo-S/C electrode has excellent electrocatalytic stability over an extended period, much better than those of MoS2/C and Pt plate electrodes. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and x-ray absorption spectroscopy were used to understand the formation process and electrocatalytic properties of Ni-Mo-S/C. The intuitive comparison test was designed to reveal the superior gas-evolving profile of Ni-Mo-S/C over that of MoS2/C, and a laboratory-scale hydrogen generator was further assembled to demonstrate its potential application in practical appliances.

Iron Oxide-Decorated Carbon for Supercapacitor Anodes with Ultrahigh Energy Density and Outstanding Cycling Stability

Abstract: Supercapacitor with ultrahigh energy density (e.g., comparable with those of rechargeable batteries) and long cycling ability (>50000 cycles) is attractive for the next-generation energy storage devices. The energy density of carbonaceous material electrodes can be effectively improved by combining with certain metal oxides/hydroxides, but many at the expenses of power density and long-time cycling stability. To achieve an optimized overall electrochemical performance, rationally designed electrode structures with proper control in metal oxide/carbon are highly desirable. Here we have successfully realized an ultrahigh-energy and long-life supercapacitor anode by developing a hierarchical graphite foam–carbon nanotube framework and coating the surface with a thin layer of iron oxide (GF–CNT@Fe2O3). The full cell of anode based on this structure gives rise to a high energy of ∼74.7 Wh/kg at a power of ∼1400 W/kg, and ∼95.4% of the capacitance can be retained after 50000 cycles of charge–discharge. These pe...

Reduced Graphene Oxide-Wrapped MoO3 Composites Prepared by Using Metal–Organic Frameworks as Precursor for All-Solid-State Flexible Supercapacitors

Abstract: Reduced graphene oxide-wrapped MoO3M (rGO/MoO3 ) is prepared by a novel and simple method that is developed by using a metal-organic framework as the precursor. After a two-step annealing process, the obtained rGO/MoO3 composite is used for a high-performance supercapacitor electrode. Moreover, an all-solid-state flexible supercapacitor is fabricated based on the rGO/MoO3 composite, which shows stable performance under different bending states.

Hybrid fibers made of molybdenum disulfide, reduced graphene oxide, and multi-walled carbon nanotubes for solid-state, flexible, asymmetric supercapacitors.

Abstract: One of challenges existing in fiber-based supercapacitors is how to achieve high energy density without compromising their rate stability. Owing to their unique physical, electronic, and electrochemical properties, two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, e.g., molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) and graphene, have attracted increasing research interest and been utilized as electrode materials in energy-related applications. Herein, by incorporating MoS2 and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanosheets into a well-aligned multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) sheet followed by twisting, MoS2-rGO/MWCNT and rGO/MWCNT fibers are fabricated, which can be used as the anode and cathode, respectively, for solid-state, flexible, asymmetric supercapacitors. This fiber-based asymmetric supercapacitor can operate in a wide potential window of 1.4 V with high Coulombic efficiency, good rate and cycling stability, and improved energy density.

All metal nitrides solid-state asymmetric supercapacitors

Abstract: Two metal nitrides, TiN porous layers and Fe2 N nanoparticles, are grown uniformly with the assistance of atomic layer deposition on vertically aligned graphene nanosheets and used as the cathode and anode for solid-state supercapacitors, respectively. Full cells are constructed and show good flexibility, high-rate capability, and 98% capacitance retention after 20,000 cycles.

Single-layer transition metal dichalcogenide nanosheet-based nanosensors for rapid, sensitive, and multiplexed detection of DNA

Abstract: Single-layer transition metal dichalcogenide nanosheets, including MoS2, TiS2, and TaS2, are used as novel sensing platforms for sensitive and selective detection of DNA, based on their high fluorescence-quenching ability and different affinities toward single-stranded DNA and double-stranded DNA. Importantly, for the first time, a single-layer TaS2 nanosheet-based multiplexed DNA sensor is also developed.

Non-volatile resistive memory devices based on solution-processed ultrathin two-dimensional nanomaterials

Abstract: Ultrathin two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, such as graphene and MoS2, hold great promise for electronics and optoelectronics due to their distinctive physical and electronic properties. Recent progress in high-yield, massive production of ultrathin 2D nanomaterials via various solution-based methods allows them to be easily integrated into electronic devices via solution processing techniques. Non-volatile resistive memory devices based on ultrathin 2D nanomaterials have been emerging as promising alternatives for the next-generation data storage devices due to their high flexibility, three-dimensional-stacking capability, simple structure, transparency, easy fabrication and low cost. In this tutorial review, we will summarize the recent progress in the utilization of solution-processed ultrathin 2D nanomaterials for fabrication of non-volatile resistive memory devices. Moreover, we demonstrate how to achieve excellent device performance by engineering the active layers, electrodes and/or device structure of resistive memory devices. On the basis of current status, the discussion is concluded with some personal insights into the challenges and opportunities in future research directions.

A Facile and Universal Top‐Down Method for Preparation of Monodisperse Transition‐Metal Dichalcogenide Nanodots

Abstract: Despite unique properties of layered transition-metal dichalcogenide (TMD) nanosheets, there is still lack of a facile and general strategy for the preparation of TMD nanodots (NDs). Reported herein is the preparation of a series of TMD NDs, including TMD quantum dots (e.g. MoS2, WS2, ReS2, TaS2, MoSe2 and WSe2) and NbSe2 NDs, from their bulk crystals by using a combination of grinding and sonication techniques. These NDs could be easily separated from the N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone when post-treated with n-hexane and then chloroform. All the TMD NDs with sizes of less than 10 nm show a narrow size distribution with high dispersity in solution. As a proof-of-concept application, memory devices using TMD NDs, for example, MoSe2, WS2, or NbSe2, mixed with polyvinylpyrrolidone as active layers, have been fabricated, which exhibit a nonvolatile write-once-read-many behavior. These high-quality TMD NDs should have various applications in optoelectronics, solar cells, catalysis, and biomedicine.

High-Yield Exfoliation of Ultrathin Two-Dimensional Ternary Chalcogenide Nanosheets for Highly Sensitive and Selective Fluorescence DNA Sensors

Abstract: High-yield preparation of ultrathin two-dimensional (2D) nanosheets is of great importance for the further exploration of their unique properties and promising applications. Herein, for the first time, the high-yield and scalable production of ultrathin 2D ternary chalcogenide nanosheets, including Ta2NiS5 and Ta2NiSe5, in solution is achieved by exfoliating their layered microflakes. The size of resulting Ta2NiS5 and Ta2NiS5 nanosheets ranges from tens of nanometers to few micrometers. Importantly, the production yield of single-layer Ta2NiS5 nanosheets is very high, ca. 86%. As a proof-of-concept application, the single-layer Ta2NiS5 is used as a novel fluorescence sensing platform for the detection of DNA with excellent selectivity and high sensitivity (with detection limit of 50 pM). These solution-processable, high-yield, large-amount ternary chalcogenide nanosheets may also have potential applications in electrocatalysis, supercapacitors, and electronic devices.

Epitaxial Growth of Hetero-Nanostructures Based on Ultrathin Two-Dimensional Nanosheets

Abstract: Ultrathin two-dimensional (2D) nanosheets, such as graphene and MoS2, which are demonstrated to be fundamentally and technologically important in many applications, have emerged as a unique family of nanomaterials in chemistry and material science over the past decade. The single-crystalline nature and ultrathin thickness of these 2D nanosheets make them ideal templates for the epitaxial deposition of nanostructures, which offer many possibilities to engineer microsized 2D p-n hetero-junctions at atomic/nanometer scale. This Perspective aims to provide information on the epitaxial growth of hetero-nanostructures based on ultrathin 2D nanosheets. Various methods for the epitaxial growth of nanostructures based on ultrathin 2D nanosheets or in situ growth of lateral or vertical epitaxial 2D semiconductor hetero-nanostructures are introduced. The advantages of these 2D epitaxial hetero-nanostructures for some applications, such as electronics, optoelectronics, and electrocatalysis, are also presented. On the basis of the current status of 2D epitaxial hetero-nanostructures, the future prospects of this promising area are discussed.

Tubular TiC fibre nanostructures as supercapacitor electrode materials with stable cycling life and wide-temperature performance

Abstract: Highly active electrode materials with judicious design of nanostructure are important for the construction of high-performance electrochemical energy storage devices. In this work, we have fabricated a tubular TiC fibre cloth as an interesting type of stable supercapacitive material. Hollow microfibres of TiC are synthesized by carbothermal treatment of commercial T-shirt cotton fibres. To demonstrate the rationale of nanostructuring in energy storage, the hollow fibres are further covered by interwoven TiC nanotube branches, forming 3D tubular all-TiC hierarchical fibres with high electrical conductivity, high surface area, and high porosity. For energy storage functions, organic symmetric supercapacitors based on the hollow fibre–nanotube (HFNT) TiC cloth electrodes are assembled and thoroughly characterized. The TiC-based electrodes show very stable capacitance in long charge–discharge cycles and at different temperatures. In particular, the integrated TiC HFNT cloth electrodes show a reasonably high capacitance (185 F g−1 at 2 A g−1), better cycling stability at high-rates (e.g., 97% retention at room temperature after 150 000 cycles, and 67% at −15 °C after 50 000 cycles) than other control electrodes (e.g., pure carbon fibre cloths). It is envisaged that this 3D tubular TiC fibre cloth is also useful for solar cells and electrocatalysis.

Thin metal nanostructures: synthesis, properties and applications

Abstract: Two-dimensional nanomaterials, especially graphene and single- or few-layer transition metal dichalcogenide nanosheets, have attracted great research interest in recent years due to their distinctive physical, chemical and electronic properties as well as their great potentials for a broad range of applications. Recently, great efforts have also been devoted to the controlled synthesis of thin nanostructures of metals, one of the most studied traditional materials, for various applications. In this minireview, we review the recent progress in the synthesis and applications of thin metal nanostructures with a focus on metal nanoplates and nanosheets. First of all, various methods for the synthesis of metal nanoplates and nanosheets are summarized. After a brief introduction of their properties, some applications of metal nanoplates and nanosheets, such as catalysis, surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), sensing and near-infrared photothermal therapy are described.

Stabilization of 4H hexagonal phase in gold nanoribbons

Abstract: Gold, silver, platinum and palladium typically crystallize with the face-centred cubic structure. Here we report the high-yield solution synthesis of gold nanoribbons in the 4H hexagonal polytype, a previously unreported metastable phase of gold. These gold nanoribbons undergo a phase transition from the original 4H hexagonal to face-centred cubic structure on ligand exchange under ambient conditions. Using monochromated electron energy-loss spectroscopy, the strong infrared plasmon absorption of single 4H gold nanoribbons is observed. Furthermore, the 4H hexagonal phases of silver, palladium and platinum can be readily stabilized through direct epitaxial growth of these metals on the 4H gold nanoribbon surface. Our findings may open up new strategies for the crystal phase-controlled synthesis of advanced noble metal nanomaterials.

Cellular and molecular regulation of the activation of mammalian primordial follicles: somatic cells initiate follicle activation in adulthood

Abstract: Background The first small follicles to appear in the mammalian ovaries are primordial follicles. The initial pool of primordial follicles serves as the source of developing follicles and oocytes for the entire reproductive lifespan of the animal. Although the selective activation of primordial follicles is critical for female fertility, its underlying mechanisms have remained poorly understood. Methods A search of PubMed was conducted to identify peer-reviewed literature pertinent to the study of mammalian primordial follicle activation, especially recent reports of the role of primordial follicle granulosa cells (pfGCs) in regulating this process. Results In recent years, molecular mechanisms that regulate the activation of primordial follicles have been elucidated, mostly through the use of genetically modified mouse models. Several molecules and pathways operating in both the somatic pfGCs and oocytes, such as the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase (PI3K) and the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) pathways, have been shown to be important for primordial follicle activation. More importantly, recent studies have provided an updated view of how exactly signaling pathways in pfGCs and in oocytes, such as the KIT ligand (KL) and KIT, coordinate in adult ovaries so that the activation of primordial follicles is achieved. Conclusions In this review, we have provided an updated picture of how mammalian primordial follicles are activated. The functional roles of pfGCs in governing the activation of primordial follicles in adulthood are highlighted. The in-depth understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of primordial follicle activation will hopefully lead to more treatments of female infertility, and the current progress indicates that the use of existing primordial follicles as a source for obtaining fertilizable oocytes as a new treatment for female infertility is just around the corner.

Surface modification-induced phase transformation of hexagonal close-packed gold square sheets

Abstract: Conventionally, the phase transformation of inorganic nanocrystals is realized under extreme conditions (for example, high temperature or high pressure). Here we report the complete phase transformation of Au square sheets (AuSSs) from hexagonal close-packed (hcp) to face-centered cubic (fcc) structures at ambient conditions via surface ligand exchange, resulting in the formation of (100)f-oriented fcc AuSSs. Importantly, the phase transformation can also be realized through the coating of a thin metal film (for example, Ag) on hcp AuSSs. Depending on the surfactants used during the metal coating process, two transformation pathways are observed, leading to the formation of (100)f-oriented fcc Au@Ag core-shell square sheets and (110)h/(101)f-oriented hcp/fcc mixed Au@Ag nanosheets. Furthermore, monochromated electron energy loss spectroscopy reveals the strong surface plasmon resonance absorption of fcc AuSS and Au@Ag square sheet in the infrared region. Our findings may offer a new route for the crystal-phase and shape-controlled synthesis of inorganic nanocrystals.

Carbon-Based Sorbents with Three-Dimensional Architectures for Water Remediation.

Abstract: Over the past decade, carbon-based 3D architectures have received increasing attention in science and technology due to their fascinating properties, such as a large surface area, macroscopic bulky shape, and interconnected porous structures, enabling them to be one of the most promising materials for water remediation. This review summarizes the recent development in design, preparation, and applications of carbon-based 3D architectures derived from carbon nanotubes, graphene, biomass, or synthetic polymers for water treatment. After a brief introduction of these materials and their synthetic strategies, their applications in water treatment, such as the removal of oils/organics, ions, and dyes, are summarized. Finally, future perspective directions for this promising field are also discussed.

Multifunctional Architectures Constructing of PANI Nanoneedle Arrays on MoS2 Thin Nanosheets for High-Energy Supercapacitors.

Abstract: Multifunctional MoS2 @PANI (polyaniline) pseudo-supercapacitor electrodes consisting of MoS2 thin nanosheets and PANI nanoarrays are fabricated via a large-scale approach. The superior capacitance retention is retained up to 91% after 4000 cycles and a high energy density of 106 Wh kg(-1) is delivered at a power density of 106 kW kg(-1) .

Hydrophilic Nitrogen and Sulfur Co‐doped Molybdenum Carbide Nanosheets for Electrochemical Hydrogen Evolution

Abstract: Nitrogen and sulfur dual-doped Mo2 C nanosheets provide low operating potential (-86 mV for driving 10 mA cm(-2) of current density). Co-doping of N and S heteroatoms can improve the wetting property of the Mo2C electrocatalyst in aqueous solution and induce synergistic effects via σ-donation and π-back donation with hydronium cation.

VO2 nanoflake arrays for supercapacitor and Li-ion battery electrodes: performance enhancement by hydrogen molybdenum bronze as an efficient shell material

Abstract: Hydrogen molybdenum bronze (HMB) is electrochemically deposited as a homogeneous shell on VO2 nanoflakes grown on graphene foam (GF), forming a GF + VO2/HMB integrated electrode structure. Asymmetric supercapacitors based on the GF + VO2/HMB cathode and neutral electrolyte are assembled and show enhanced performance with weaker polarization, higher specific capacitance and better cycling life than the unmodified GF + VO2 electrode. Capacitances of 485 F g−1 (2 A g−1) and 306 F g−1 (32 A g−1) are obtained because of the exceptional 3D porous architecture and conductive network. In addition, the GF + VO2/HMB electrodes are also characterized as the cathode of lithium ion batteries. Very stable capacities at rates up to 30 C are demonstrated for 500 cycles. This new type of shell material is expected to have its generic function in other metal oxide based nanostructures.

Novel Metal@Carbon Spheres Core–Shell Arrays by Controlled Self-Assembly of Carbon Nanospheres: A Stable and Flexible Supercapacitor Electrode

Abstract: The high performance of electrochemical energy-storage devices relies largely on scrupulous design of nanoarchitectures and smart hybridization of bespoke active materials. Carbon nanopsheres (CNSs) are widely used for energy storage and conversion devices. Here, the directional assembly of CNSs on a vertical-standing metal scaffold into a core/shell array structure is reported. The method uses a three-step all-solution synthesis strategy (chemical bath deposition, electrodeposition, and hydrothermal) and begins from ZnO microrod arrays as a sacrificial template. The self-assembly of CNSs can be correlated to a simultaneous etching effect to the ZnO accompanying the polymerization of glucose precursor. The Ni microtube/CNSs arrays are selected as an example for structural and electrochemical characterizations. The novel type of metal/CNSs arrays is demonstrated to be a highly stable electrode for supercapacitors. The electrodes of metal/CNSs arrays are assembled into symmetric supercapacitors and exhibit high capacitances of 227 F g−1 (at 2.5 A g−1) and an outstanding cycling stability with capacitance retention of 97% after 40 000 cycles.

Supramolecular Polymerization Promoted In Situ Fabrication of Nitrogen‐Doped Porous Graphene Sheets as Anode Materials for Li‐Ion Batteries

Abstract: A novel strategy of utilizing supramolecular polymerization for fabricating nitrogen doped porous graphene (NPG) with high doping level of 12 atom% as the anode material for lithium ion batteries is reported for the first time. The introduction of supramolecular polymer (melamine cyanurate) functions not only as a spacer to prevent the restacking of graphene sheets but also as a sacrificial template to generate porous structures, as well as a nitrogen source to induce in situ N doping. Therefore, pores and loose-packed graphene thin layers with high N doping level are very effectively formed in NPG after the annealing process. Such highly desired structures immediately offer remarkably improved Li storage performance including high reversible capacity (900 mAh g−1 after 150 cycles) with good cycling and rate performances. The effects of annealing temperature and heating rates on the final electrochemical performance of NPG are also investigated. Furthermore, the low cost, facile, and scalable features of this novel strategy may be helpful for the rational design of functionalized graphene-based materials for diverse applications.