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NanoManufacturing

Michael De Volder, Engineering Department - IfM
 
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Table of Contents for Advanced Materials. List of articles from both the latest and EarlyView issues.
Updated: 1 hour 14 min ago

Atomically Precise Coinage Metal Cluster: A Promising Class of Scintillators for High‐Resolution X‐Ray Imaging

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 13:09

This review presents an in-depth analysis of the underlying mechanisms and critical performance parameters of the metal cluster scintillators (MCS). Subsequently, effective strategies to enhance scintillation performance are systematically summarized. In addition, it discusses various preparation methods for MCS screens. Finally, the opportunities and challenges that the field currently faces are explored.


Abstract

X-ray detection technology utilizing scintillators is pivotal across various applications, including medical diagnostics and industrial inspections. Recently, metal clusters have emerged as a novel class of scintillator materials, demonstrating promising potential in X-ray imaging due to their superior X-ray absorption capabilities, tunable optical properties, and excellent stability against moisture and oxygen. This review addresses the current lack of comprehensive evaluations in the domain of coinage metal cluster scintillators. It begins with an in-depth analysis of the underlying mechanisms and critical performance parameters of these scintillators. Subsequently, effective strategies to enhance scintillation performance are systematically summarized. The review also delves into various preparation methods for metal cluster scintillator screens. Lastly, it identifies the opportunities and challenges that the field currently faces. This review aims to serve as a theoretical foundation and a methodological guide for future studies focused on the structural design and performance optimization of coinage metal cluster scintillators, advancing X-ray imaging technologies to address application challenges in this evolving field.

Tailoring the Reaction Heterogeneity for Robust Li‐Rich Cathodes

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 13:06

The reaction heterogeneity is tailored precisely within Li-rich cathode materials, which not only helps alleviate the notorious oxygen release as well as parasitic interfacial side reactions, but also improve the Li+ diffusion kinetics by means of highly ordered cationic arrangement and enhanced mechanical stability, thereby boosting the electrochemical properties.


Abstract

The practical application of Li-rich Mn-based layered oxides (LLO) cathode is hindered by severe capacity and voltage degradation resulting from severe oxygen release and irreversible phase transition. Herein, the reaction heterogeneity, which describes the spatially resolved electrochemical divergence within individual cathode particles, is engineered through compositional gradient design to couple Li+ transport kinetics and the anion redox activity between particle interiors and surfaces. It is revealed that Co/Mn concentration gradient within particles creates heterogeneous phase content distribution and structural ordering, inducing surface-bulk reaction heterogeneity that significantly impacts the overall electrochemical performance. Specifically, Li2MnO3-poor and Co-enriched surface effectively mitigates the oxygen loss and enhances electrochemical reaction kinetics, benefited from the reduced surface redox reactivity and induced highly ordered intra-layered cationic arrangement. Meanwhile, the Li2MnO3-enriched core with slight Li/Ni intermixing provides high reversible capacity and strong mechanical stability. Consequently, the greatly enhanced anion redox reversibility, Li+ diffusion dynamics, and structure stability endow LLO with exceptional electrochemical properties, showing a capacity retention of 86.0% and a reduced voltage decay of 0.518 mV per cycle after 500 cycles at 1 C. This work provides a valuable strategy to tailor the redox chemistry and achieve robust LLO.

Bidentate Anchoring Enables Concurrent Grain Orientation and Lattice Strain Mitigation in Wide‐Bandgap Perovskites for High‐Performance All‐Perovskite Tandem Solar Cells

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 13:04

Bidentate malondiamidine hydrochloride enables oriented crystallization and strain relaxation in wide-bandgap perovskites for 29.0% efficient all-perovskite tandem solar cells (TSCs).


Abstract

Wide-bandgap perovskite solar cells (WBG-PSCs) are essential for high-performance all-perovskite tandem solar cells. However, their efficiency and stability are limited by inhomogeneous crystallization, which induces disordered crystal orientation and detrimental lattice strain. Herein, malondiamidine hydrochloride (MAMCl) is introduced as a new ligand that simultaneously controls crystal nucleation orientation and passivates grain boundaries in WBG perovskites while relieving lattice strain. MAMCl's unique molecular structure – featuring amide and amidine terminal groups connected by a short carbon chain, exhibits strong binding affinity with lead ions, promoting preferential (100)-oriented nucleation. The ligand's compact molecular structure, devoid of sterically hindering groups, facilitates charge extraction and transport at the perovskite/charge transport layer interface. During thermal processing, MAMCl preferentially anchors at grain boundaries through strong coordination bonding, effectively mitigating lattice strain and enhancing thermal stability. As a result, single-junction 1.77 eV WBG-PSCs achieve a champion power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 20.4% with an exceptional open-circuit voltage (V OC) of 1.369 V. When incorporated into tandem devices, a high PCE of 29.0% (certified 28.06%) is obtained. Notably, the encapsulated all-perovskite tandem devices retain 93% of initial efficiency after 700 h and over 80% after 1320 h of continuous maximum power point tracking (MPPT) under 1-sun illumination in ambient conditions.

Multimodal In‐Sensor Computing with Dual‐Phase Organic Synapses for Wearable Fitness Monitoring

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 12:57

A dual-phase organic synaptic sensor detects human respiration and ambient UV light, enabling a wearable neuromorphic system for real-time exercise monitoring.


Abstract

With the advancement of wearable and mobile devices, demand for the real-time, low-power processing of physiological and environmental signals is growing rapidly. To achieve this, neuromorphic systems that employ artificial synapses for analog signal processing and parallel computing represent a promising strategy. In this study, a synaptic sensor is developed that simultaneously responds to human respiration and ambient ultraviolet (UV) light, enabling multimodal analog data processing. The proposed device is fabricated using the organic semiconductor 5,5′-Di(4-biphenylyl)-2,2′-bithiophene, which has distinct bulk and channel phases. Human respiration-induced airflow is converted into a synaptic current via charge trapping triggered by the interaction between molecules of water and the bulk phase, leading to real-time detection of the respiratory rate. The inherent photosensitivity of the device also allows for simultaneous UV detection, thus capturing the environmental exposure conditions. Using these multimodal sensing and processing capabilities, a real-time feedback system is implemented that supports exercise monitoring by integrating physiological and environmental information. This work demonstrates the potential use of synaptic sensors as front-end components in wearable neuromorphic platforms, offering a compact, energy-efficient, and intelligent interface for healthcare and personalized information services.

Ladder‐Type Covalent Organic Frameworks with Highly Delocalized π‐Electrons and Dense Redox‐Active Sites toward Robust Aqueous Iron Organic Batteries

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 12:56

A poly(benzimidazobenzophenanthroline) (BBL) ladder-type covalent organic framework (HAQ-COF), featuring extended π-conjugation and densely packed carbonyl/imine redox sites, is synthesized, which represents the first application of COFs as cathodes in aqueous iron-ion batteries (AIIBs). Notably, HAQ-COF cathodes demonstrate high specific capacity, excellent rate capability, and long-term cycling stability, enriching the application of BBL-ladder-type COFs in AIIBs.


Abstract

Aqueous iron-ion batteries (AIIBs) have demonstrated fascinating advantages in large-scale energy storage, whereas the development of high-performance Fe2+ hosting cathode materials is still at its infancy. Herein, two hexaazatrinaphthyalene (HATN)-based poly(benzimidazobenzophenanthroline) (BBL)-ladder-type covalent organic frameworks (COFs) (namely HAQ-COF and HAB-COF) are synthesized and for the first time served them as cathodes for AIIBs. The rigid backbones and delocalized π-electron networks endow them with stable structure and fast charge transport, while the dense arrangement of redox-active groups in HAQ-COF generates more chelating sites, which can facilitate the storage of multivalent metal ions. As a result, HAQ-COF cathodes for AIIBs delivers a high specific capacity of 226 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1, excellent rate capability, and long-term cycling stability with 87% capacity retention over 26 000 cycles at 2 A g−1. Combined experimental (in situ/ex situ spectroscopy) analyses and DFT calculations uncover a dual-site 24-electron redox mechanism with Fe2+ sequentially coordination by carbonyl and imine moieties. This work not only establishes BBL-type COFs as high-performance cathodes for AIIBs but also provides mechanistic insight into Fe2+ storage, thereby informing rational design of sustainable and high-performance cathode materials for multivalent-ion energy storage systems.

A 2D Van Der Waals Molecular Ferroelectric

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 12:54

The first 2D van der Waals molecular ferroelectric is reported, in which coordination bonded molecule-based monolayers are knitted together by weak van der Waals forces. It can be mechanically exfoliated into ultrathin flake with room-temperature ferroelectricity down to 9 nm, which has never been achieved in traditional molecular ferroelectrics.


Abstract

2D van der Waals (vdW) ferroelectrics have aroused great interest for their novel structures and functionalities in many applications such as in-memory computing and ferroelectric detectors. However, the documented 2D ferroelectrics remain very rare, mainly limited to inorganic ones represented by transition metal thio/selenophosphates. Constructing new 2D vdW ferroelectric categories may bring interesting phenomena, but it has always been a challenge. Here, a molecular 2D vdW ferroelectric sodium 2,2,3,3-tetrafluoropropionate (2,2,3,3-TFPS) is successfully designed through H/F substitution, which adopts a unique stable layered structure where each coordination bonded molecule-based 2,2,3,3-TFPS monolayers knitted together by weak vdW forces between protruding (−CHF2) cantilevers in the adjacent two monolayers. More strikingly, it can show robust room-temperature ferroelectricity even in a mechanically exfoliated ultrathin flake as thin as 9 nm, which has never been achieved in traditional molecular ferroelectrics with ferroelectricity mainly in the bulk form and micron-scale thin film. To the best of the knowledge, 2,2,3,3-TFPS is the first molecular 2D vdWs ferroelectric showing robust ferroelectricity in sub-10 nm thickness. This work expands the diversity of 2D vdW ferroelectrics and sheds light on the exploration of molecular 2D vdW ferroelectrics with promising low-dimensional ferroelectricity for applications in nanoscale devices.

Organic Electrochemical Synaptic Transistors with Improved Retention for Logic and Biosignal Processing

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 12:53

Thermal annealing enhances organic electrochemical synaptic transistors by improving molecular order, yielding stable multilevel conductance with long-term reliability under ambient conditions. The devices unify memory, sensing, and computation, demonstrated in logic gates, biosignal recording, and neuromorphic activity classification, offering a pathway toward robust bio-inspired electronics.


Abstract

Organic electrochemical synaptic transistors (OESTs) based on organic mixed ionic-electronic conductors (OMIECs) present a promising platform for bio-inspired neuromorphic computing and bioelectronics. However, achieving long-term memory retention and precise conductance modulation under ambient conditions remains a key challenge. Here, a solid-state OEST gated by a semi-solid ionic liquid gel, in which thermal annealing significantly enhances memory characteristics and operation reliability by tuning the thin film microstructure and ion-polymer interactions, is reported. The optimized devices exhibit stable multilevel conductance with 82% retention over 1000 s across five distinct states, and negligible drift over 20000 operation cycles under ambient conditions. These devices are integrated into non-volatile logic gates (NOT, NAND, NOR) and applied in high-fidelity recording and storage of electrocardiogram (ECG) signals for up to 1200 s, with reusability over 7 days. They are also used for neuromorphic computing of photoplethysmography (PPG) signals for activity classification. This work advances the development of reliable, high-performance bio-inspired neuromorphic devices, offering a route toward in-sensory processing and logic-in-memory architectures for bioelectronic applications.

Construction of Diverse Calcium‐Based Nanomaterials through a Microemulsion Method for Pyroptosis‐Initiated Antitumor Immunotherapy

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 12:52

A universal microemulsion approach using calcium dodecylbenzenesulfonate as surfactant and calcium source enables the synthesis of diverse calcium-based nanomaterials. Calcium succinate nanoparticles (PCS NPs) induce pyroptosis via calcium overload, and upregulate MHC-I expression, enhancing immune response and alleviating immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments. This strategy offers a novel platform for tumor microenvironment (TME)-regulated immunotherapy with broad applications.


Abstract

Calcium-based nanomaterials have gained significant attention in biomedical fields due to their critical roles in biological processes and excellent biocompatibility. In this study, a universal and simple microemulsion approach is presented using calcium dodecylbenzenesulfonate as both surfactant and calcium source, enabling the synthesis of diverse calcium-based nanomaterials (e.g., calcium succinate, calcium hypophosphite, calcium metatungstate, calcium gluconate, calcium formate, and calcium citrate). To address the challenges of inadequate immune response in tumor immunotherapy, calcium succinate nanoparticle (PCS NP) is investigated as an example. The PCS NP exhibit enhanced immunotherapeutic potential by activating the caspase-1/GSDMD-mediated pyroptosis pathway via calcium overload, which in turn enhanced the immune response. Additionally, the anionic succinate component upregulates major histocompatibility complex-I (MHC-I) expression, enhancing antigen presentation and alleviating the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). This microemulsion strategy provides a novel platform for calcium nanomaterial fabrication, opening new avenues for TME-regulated immunotherapy enhancement, demonstrating a broad application prospect.

Crystalline Confinement of Dynamic Room‐Temperature Phosphorescent Hydrogels: A New Paradigm for Synergistic Enhancement between Lifetime and Flexibility

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 12:50

Integrating high toughness and persistent room-temperature phosphorescence in crystalline-induced dynamic RTP materials represents a fundamental challenge. Here, a crystalline confinement strategy is developed using ionic comonomers to precisely modulate crystalline domains. Hydration competition tailors crystalline domains to achieve exceptional toughness (12 MJ m−3) while electrostatic anchoring stabilizes triplet excitons to extend phosphorescence lifetime to 598.79 ms, overcoming the intrinsic materials limitation.


Abstract

Dynamic room-temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials present promising applications in optoelectronic fields.  However, conventional dynamic RTP hydrogels typically suffer from an inherent performance trade-off, where enhancement of flexibility comes at the expense of phosphorescence lifetime and vice versa. Herein, a universal crystalline confinement strategy is reported to overcome this fundamental limitation by employing ionic comonomers to regulate crystalline domains. By incorporating ionic comonomers such as 3-sulfopropyl methacrylate potassium salt (SPM), the hydration competition and disruption of crystalline packing enable precise control over crystal dimensions, yielding hydrogels with exceptional stretchability (634%) and toughness (12 MJ m−3, 107-fold improvement). The ionic comonomers also serve as electrostatic anchoring sites for chromophores, stabilizing triplet excitons and significantly prolonging the phosphorescence lifetime to 598.79 ms. This approach overcomes traditional trade-offs between flexibility and phosphorescence lifetime, demonstrating broad applicability across various ionic comonomers with ≈100-fold toughness enhancements and prolonged phosphorescence lifetime. These results establish a generalizable framework linking crystalline domain dynamics with photophysical properties in dynamic hydrogels. The design opens avenues for advanced dynamic RTP materials in stretchable optoelectronics, dynamic encryption, smart sensors, and reagent thermal history monitoring.

Flexible Graphene@Silica Fabric Metasurface for Electromagnetic Wave Absorption on High‐Speed Aircraft

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 12:49

A flexible, ultrathin (0.1 mm), and thermally robust graphene@silica fabric metasurface with tunable impedance for aerospace EMW absorption via chemical vapor deposition and laser “erasing” technique. This metasurface is directly integrated onto the aircraft thermal-insulation layer and ensures excellent durability under high temperatures, high-speed airflow scouring, and mechanical stress, making it ideal for aerospace applications.


Abstract

Modern high-speed aircraft require materials that can absorb electromagnetic waves (EMWs) while remaining lightweight, flexible, and resistant to extreme heat flux. Although graphene@silica fabric (G@SF) is a promising metasurface in this regard, its EMW dissipation capacity is limited by its uniform sheet resistance distribution, which leads to mismatched interfacial wave impedance. In this study, a subtractive laser “erasing” technique is applied to G@SF grown via chemical vapor deposition to develop a scalable, flexible, ultrathin (0.1 mm), and thermally robust (up to 1000 °C) metasurface with tunable impedance for aerospace EMW absorption. This metasurface is directly integrated onto the aircraft thermal-insulation layer to obtain an integrated absorber that minimizes radar reflection (down to −42 dB) without adding significant weight or altering aircraft structure. The all-inorganic design ensures excellent durability under high temperatures, high-speed airflow scouring, and mechanical stress, making it ideal for aerospace applications. The proposed method is a promising approach for fabricating next-generation EMW-absorbing materials that combine performance, resilience, and manufacturability.

Mirror Life: Bridging Chirality, Ethics, and the Foundations of Life Creation

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 12:48

Bridging chirality and materials science, this review charts how mirror-image building blocks enable stable biomaterials and therapeutics and propel efforts toward mirror cells. Applications in chiral biomaterials and therapeutics are surveyed, alongside engineering strategies toward mirror cells and protocells, and a pragmatic biosafety/ethics and containment roadmap for orthogonal, materials-based life systems.


Abstract

Biological homochirality, defined by the exclusive use of L-amino acids and D-sugars in terrestrial life, is essential for molecular recognition, enzymatic specificity, and cellular function. Recent advances in synthetic chemistry and molecular engineering have enabled the creation of mirror-image biomolecules such as D-peptides, L-DNA, and L-RNA, laying the foundation for orthogonal biological systems. These systems encompass engineered bacteria, viruses, and protocells composed entirely of D-amino acids and L-nucleotides. Mirror organisms represent a novel class of synthetic life with transformative potential in biomedicine. They may be used to develop protease-resistant drugs, nuclease-stable genetic elements, biosensors, and tissue engineering scaffolds, applications where biological durability and immune invisibility are advantageous. However, their unnatural chirality raises significant biosafety concerns. These organisms may escape immune detection, resist host antimicrobial defenses, and evade ecological regulators such as predation and microbial competition. This introduces the risk of uncontrolled proliferation in clinical or environmental settings. This review examines stereoselective synthesis of mirror biomolecules, construction of functional mirror subsystems, and engineering of mirror-life architectures. It also discusses recent progress in chiral biomaterials, including L-DNA hydrogels, nanostructures, and metamaterials, with potential applications in drug delivery, sensing, and regenerative medicine.

Self‐Powered Green Hydrogen Production via Osmotic Energy Harvesting

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 12:46

The TOC graphic highlights the newly fabricated PAA37 membrane, which exhibits exceptional ion selectivity. This membrane enables, for the first time, the practical application of using osmotic energy to directly power water electrolysis for hydrogen production. Furthermore, the PAA37 membrane can be mass-produced via a roll-to-roll process, demonstrating its significant potential for large-scale applications in osmotic power generation and hydrogen production.


Abstract

Harnessing renewable energy for green hydrogen production is critical for decarbonization. An ideal, sustainable route involves self-powered hydrogen production without additional energy input. Here, the osmotic energy between seawater and river water is used to continuously generate electricity to directly produce hydrogen. Efficient hydrogen production is successfully achieved by connecting the osmotic energy device composed of the polyamide acid PAA37 ion selective membrane and the water electrolysis device in series. The PAA37 membrane, featuring engineered sub-nanometer channels, exhibits an ultra-high cation transference number (t+ = 0.96). Targeting the critical challenge of scaling up osmotic power generation, the HLZ equation is introduced. It theoretically establishes that the decline in power density under large-area conditions is primarily attributed to the electrode impedance within the low-concentration zone. This finding offers a theoretical foundation for guiding the optimization of large-scale device designs. Consequently, the PAA37 membrane achieves a power density of 6.0 W m−2 over a macroscopic area of 3.14 mm2 under a 50-fold KCl. Furthermore, by stacking 110 RED units in series, a remarkable output voltage of 24.3 V is generated. By arranging this stack in series and parallel, the system successfully powers an electrolyzer for direct hydrogen production.

Spatially Programmable Electroadhesive Enables In Situ Site‐Selective Functional Coupling

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 12:44

A light-activated, in situ spatially programmable bioadhesive (STICH) enables microscale, site-selective integration of bioelectronic devices with wet tissue. It achieves robust mechanical bonding and low-impedance electrical coupling, enabling reconfigurable neuromodulation and directional electromechanical sensing in vivo and ex vivo.


Abstract

Precise intraoperative integration of bioelectronic devices with wet tissue surfaces remains a challenge due to the limited spatial control of adhesion sites. Here, an in situ spatially programmable electrical bioadhesive (termed “STICH”) is reported that enables site-selective adhesion and functional coupling via light-activated bonding with wet biological tissue. Upon irradiation with patterned green light, Rose Bengal in a chitosan/silver nanowire hydrogel matrix generates singlet oxygen, which oxidizes amino acid residues into carbonyl groups on the tissue surface. The covalent bonding is then formed between the newly formed reactive carbonyl group and amine groups on chitosan. The spatially programmable adhesive allows robust tissue bonding with a lap-shear strength of 160 kPa and precise adhesion regions at ≈2 µm resolution. The light-patternable adhesive enables spatially resolved mechanical coupling for directional electromechanical sensing on ex vivo cardiac tissue. The low impedance adhesive interface also provides spatially programmed electrical coupling for in vivo neuromuscular stimulation on intraoperatively selected muscle groups. This platform advances microscale device-tissue integration and paves the way for reconfigurable bioelectronic therapies.

AC Current‐Driven Magnetization Switching and Nonlinear Hall Rectification in a Magnetic Topological Insulator

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 12:44

This study reports alternating-current (AC) driven magnetization reversal in a semi-magnetic topological insulator (Cr,Bi,Sb)2Te3/(Bi,Sb)2Te3, with low current density. Time-domain Hall voltage measurements reveal a nonlinear and rectified Hall effect, along with higher-harmonic responses and hysteresis. These findings, including asymmetric frequency mixing, offer potential for spintronic applications like signal processing and frequency conversion.


Abstract

Spin–orbit torque arising from the spin–orbit-coupled surface states of topological insulators enables current-induced control of magnetization with high efficiency. Here, alternating-current (AC) driven magnetization reversal is demonstrated in a semi-magnetic topological insulator (Cr,Bi,Sb)2Te3/(Bi,Sb)2Te3, facilitated by a low threshold current density of 1.5 × 109 A m−2. Time-domain Hall voltage measurements using an oscilloscope reveal a strongly nonlinear and rectified Hall response during the magnetization reversal process. Fourier analysis of the time-varying Hall voltage identifies higher-harmonic signals and a rectified direct-current (DC) component, highlighting the complex interplay among the applied current, external magnetic field, and magnetization dynamics. Furthermore, a hysteretic behavior in the current-voltage characteristics gives rise to frequency mixing under dual-frequency excitation. This effect, distinct from conventional polynomial-based nonlinearities, allows for selective extraction of specific frequency components. The results demonstrate that AC excitation can not only switch magnetization efficiently but also induce tunable nonlinear responses, offering a new pathway for multifunctional spintronic devices with potential applications in energy-efficient memory, signal processing, and frequency conversion.

pH‐Dependent Phosphates Conformal Coating Enabling 5.0 V Graphite Cathodes Over 10,000 Cycles via Reinforced Mechanical Strength and Optimized Interphase

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 12:41

A pH-dependent phosphate conformal coating capable of effectively suppressing the electrolyte decomposition and considerably enhancing the mechanical stability of graphite cathode via a bonding interaction with binder enables 5.0 V graphite cathodes over 10,000 cycles with an exceptional capacity retention of 80.7% in dual-ion batteries.


Abstract

Dual-ion batteries (DIBs) composed of a graphite cathode and a lithium anode are promising candidates for high-energy and high-power energy storage systems. However, graphite cathode undergoes rapid failure during the extended cycling and rapid charge/discharge mainly because of its structural breakdown and drastic resistance rise of cathode/electrolyte interphase (CEI) arising from the violent electrolyte decomposition at high voltage (4.5–5.0 V). Unlike the mainstream CEI modification strategy solely solving the problem of electrolyte decomposition, this work proposes a bifunctional CEI construction strategy that not only inhibits the electrolyte decomposition but also enhances the mechanical stability of graphite cathodes. Three pH-variable phosphates (LiH2PO4, Li2HPO4 and Li3PO4) are artificially coated on the surface of natural graphite (NG) particles through a green and low-cost wet coating route. The acidic LiH2PO4 coating not only effectively suppresses the electrolyte decomposition through the formation of a conformal coating layer, but also considerably enhances the mechanical strength of NG cathode via a strong bonding between LiH2PO4 and binder. The underlying mechanisms are elucidated through both theoretical calculations and empirical experiments. The optimized NG cathode is able to withstand fast charge/discharge at 60 C and exhibits exceptional capacity retention of 80.7% after 10,000 cycles 2 C.

All Solid State Battery with Soft Carbon–TiSi2 Multilayer Structure for Optimized LiSi Anodes

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 12:41

Next-generation all-solid-state batteries require high-capacity yet stable Si anodes, which still suffer from severe volume expansion and lithium dendrite growth. This article presents a soft carbon-TiSi2 multilayer anode that overcomes these challenges. The designed ST5/SC/Li structure enables ultra-long cycling over 64 000 cycles at 10C with zero capacity decay and charge–discharge cycling time exceeding 10 000 h. The multilayer architecture offers synergistic effects of stress buffering, dynamic lithium replenishment, and stable ion-electron dual conduction.


Abstract

Li metal and Si anodes are in urgent need for next-generation all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) due to their high energy density. However, short-circuit caused by Li dendrite growth and rapid capacity fading due to severe volume expansion of Si still seriously limit their application. Herein, a Si-TiSi2-LPSCl/soft carbon/Li (ST5-SC-Li) three-layer structured anode is designed to overcome these challenges. Multi-layer structure restricts the anisotropic expansion of Si by using the rigid support of TiSi2 and the plastic deformation capability of LPSCl. The composite layer forms a continuous ionic channel through close contact between Si and sulfide electrolyte, and constructs an “ion-electron dual network” in addition to the high electronic conductivity of the Si-Ti alloy. The SC layer forms ion-conductive LiC6, further absorbing expansion stress and inhibiting dendrite penetration. The Li metal layer dynamically compensates for the irreversible capacity loss of Si. The LCO/LPSCl/ST5-SC-Li SASSBs achieves an ultra-long cycle of 64 000 cycles at a high rate of 10C (6.4 mA cm− 2) with a capacity retention rate >100%. Separately, a high reversible areal capacity of 19.6 mAh cm−2 is achieved at 0.1C under high loading.

Pseudo‐Solid‐State Polymer Materials for QD‐Sensitized NIR‐I and NIR‐II Upconversion Beyond the Silicon Bandgap

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 12:39

Quantum dot (QD)-sensitized upconversion mixtures are encapsulated in droplets within a rigid polymer matrix, enabling liquid-like NIR-I and NIR-II triplet−triplet annihilation upconversion (TTA-UC) in a pseudo-solid format. The system achieves record-high ηUCs${\eta _{U{C_s}}}$ for QD-sensitized solid-state TTA-UC in the NIR-I regime and the first measurement of NIR-II UC emission efficiency at 1064 nm, offering a viable pathway toward silicon-compatible infrared photovoltaics and photodetectors.


Abstract

Quantum-dot (QD) sensitized triplet–triplet annihilation upconversion (TTA-UC) offers a promising strategy for harvesting sub-bandgap photons in silicon photovoltaics and infrared photodetectors. However, translating solution-based upconversion to the solid state remains a major challenge due to severe efficiency losses. Here, a hybrid approach is reported that encapsulates QD-sensitized upconversion mixtures into mesoscale droplets within a rigid acrylate matrix, preserving liquid-like dynamics in a pseudo-solid form. Using a system of PbS sensitizer, carboxytetracene mediator, and TES-ADT annihilator, a normalized UC emission efficiency (η UC ) of 0.72% and upconverted singlet state generation efficiency (ηUCs${\eta _{U{C_s}}}$) of 18% in the NIR-I regime (785 nm excitation) is achieved, record-high for solid-state QD-sensitized systems. A key advance lies in the rational design of a chemically compatible polymer system that enables spontaneous phase separation of QDs into nanodroplets while preserving QD surface chemistry, preventing an over 1000-fold drop in upconversion efficiency observed in chemically incompatible control systems. Transient absorption spectroscopy confirms that PbS surface chemistry and dynamics are maintained within nanodroplets. Extending this approach to the NIR-II regime, the first quantifiable solid-state TTA-UC under 1064 nm excitation is demonstrated, achieving η UC of 0.022% (ηUCs${\eta _{U{C_s}}}$ of 0.55%). These findings represent a substantial step toward integrating QD-sensitized TTA-UC into Si-based optoelectronics.

DNA‐Scaffolded Bispecific Antibodies Enhance Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Therapy for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 12:39

A Y-shaped bispecific antibody enhances the homing efficiency of mesenchymal stromal cells and enables competitive binding to leukocyte receptors. Engineered cells preferentially accumulate in inflamed colonic tissue, suppress immune cell infiltration, and promote colonic tissue regeneration.


Abstract

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are considered a promising cell-based therapy for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), due to their potent immunomodulatory properties and robust regenerative potential. However, their therapeutic efficacy against IBD is hindered by poor homing capacity and excessive leukocyte infiltration at inflamed colonic sites. In this study, MSCs with a Y-shaped bispecific antibody (YMV) assembled via DNA nanotechnology, which integrates anti-vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (anti-VCAM-1) and anti-mucosal addressing cell adhesion molecules-1 (anti-MAdCAM-1) antibodies are engineered, to enhance targeted delivery and inhibit leukocyte recruitment. YMV-modified MSCs show an approximately threefold enhancement in adhesion efficiency compared with native MSCs. Notably, they effectively compete for MAdCAM-1 binding sites and significantly suppress leukocyte adhesion. In a mouse model of IBD, YMV-MSCs demonstrate enhanced homing to the colon, promote mucosal repair, reduce leukocyte infiltration, and attenuate local inflammation. This DNA-mediated bispecific antibody modification strategy improves MSCs targeting and exerts anti-inflammatory effects by blocking leukocyte recruitment, offering a promising platform for MSC-based therapy.

Self‐Elevated 3D Helical Oscillator with Addressable Eigenfrequency for Wearable Interface

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 12:37

Based on frequency division multiplexing and electromagnetic induction, a 3D self-elevated helical oscillating unit (SEHOU) for wearable high-capacity human-machine interactions is developed. Eigenfrequencies of multiple SEHOUs can be collected by one flexible coil upon triggering of oscillations. Crosstalk-free communications are achieved on a single piece of SEHOU-based interface without compromising the overall wearability.


Abstract

Equipped with 3D architecture, flexible electronic devices enable intuitive tactile sensing with enhanced spatial efficiency and skin conformity. However, realizing 3D metasurfaces on a flexible substrate remains laborious. Furthermore, conventional methodology often requires complex electrical connections and communication channels to realize tactile addressing. Leveraging magnetic repulsion among ferromagnetic microstructures, here, the spontaneous formation of a 3D self-elevated helical oscillating unit (SEHOU) on flexible films is presented. Through specific pattern design, the 3D morphology can be precisely tuned upon built-in magnetic moments that balance with the inherent elastic strength. Based on electromagnetic induction, axial vibrations of SEHOU generate sinusoidal electric signals with an intrinsic oscillating frequency. Along with the theoretical model, non-overlapping eigenfrequencies are customized, allowing convenient mapping of mechanical inputs from the received electrical signals. It is shown that crosstalk-free interactions can be achieved on a single piece of SEHOU-based interface, e.g., multi-touch recognition, without compromising the overall wearability. Further, the developed fabric coils and signal analysis modules showcase the potential for wireless Internet of Things. This methodology provides a valuable reference to establish reliable, scalable, and distributed tactile addressing for high-capacity human-machine interactions.

Synergistic Engineering of Nonmagnetic Ions Enables Decoupling of Magnetic Frustration and Structural Dynamics in Cobalt‐Free High‐Nickel Cathodes

Tue, 14/10/2025 - 12:08

This study proposes a promising strategy to design high-performance cobalt-free high-nickel cathodes by introducing non-magnetic ions to suppress magnetic interactions and significantly strengthen metal–oxygen bonds. Multi-ion cooperative doping (B–Al–W) enables the formation of a fast-transport layered-spinel nano-heterostructure. Additionally, the B-enriched near-surface layer effectively stabilizes the interface and inhibits HF erosion.


Abstract

Cobalt-free high-nickel layered oxides have emerged as promising cathode candidates for next-generation lithium-ion batteries, owing to their exceptional capacity and cost-effectiveness. However, their large‑scale application remains constrained by intrinsic deficiencies stemming from cobalt absence—namely, magnetic‑ordering imbalance and sluggish structural dynamics. Here, a synergistic doping strategy involving nonmagnetic ions (B–Al–W) is presented to achieve atomic-scale coordination between bulk lattice stabilization (via Al/W doping) and near-surface interface passivation (through B enrichment). Precise substitution of non‑magnetic cations effectively mitigates magnetic frustration and superexchange interactions, while strengthened metal–oxygen bonding alleviates anisotropic lattice strain. Simultaneously, the constructed layered–spinel mortise and tenon structure significantly enhances Li+ diffusion kinetics. The optimized cathode material delivers a reversible capacity of 162.2 mAh g−1 at 10 C, retains 88.6% capacity after 100 cycles at 5 C, and markedly suppresses voltage fade. This work provides a novel design paradigm for the synergistic magnetic–electrochemical regulation of Co‑free, high-Ni cathodes in next‑generation, high‑performance LIBs.

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