Storage Applications Research Articles

Thermally Induced FeII Spin Crossover Hybrid Complex incorporating para‐sulfocinnamic acid

Anion‐Driven Light‐Induced Spin Change (AD‐LISC) enables multifunctional materials to switch magnetic states with light, enhancing potential applications in data storage, sensors, and molecular electronics, by improving spin state control by integrating photoactive anions. In this study, we report the synthesis and characterization of new mononuclear FeII coordination complexes, [Fe(3‐bpp)2](psca)2∙solvent (1∙solvent), which includes para‐sulfocinnamic acid (psca) as a non‐coordinated anion. 57Fe Mössbauer spectroscopy and magnetic susceptibility measurements (SQUID) reveals a mixture of high‐spin and low‐spin states in 1 and 1∙2.5H2O, with a predominance of low‐spin sites at room temperature. The desolvated form 1 shows a gradual spin crossover behaviour centred around the room temperature region. Additionally, single crystal X‐ray diffraction, evaluated according to Schmidt's criteria for [2 + 2] photodimerization, revealed that 1∙X does not satisfy the spatial requirements for photodimerization; accordingly, no colour change was noticed upon UV light exposure.

Mitigation of Polysulfide Shuttling in Lithium-Sulfur Batteries Utilizing Vanadium Pentoxide/Polypyrrole Nanocomposite Separators.

Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries are promising energy storage devices due to their high theoretical energy density and cost-effectiveness. However, the shuttle effect of polysulfides during the charging and discharging processes leads to a rapid decline in capacity, thereby restricting their application in energy storage. The separator, a crucial component of Li-S batteries, facilitates the transport of Li+ ions. However, the large pores present on the surface of the separator are insufficient to prevent the shuttling effect of polysulfides. This paper proposes a straightforward coating method to introduce a vanadium pentoxide (V2O5) /polypyrrole (PPy) functional coating on the surface of a conventional polymer separator. The unique composition of the V2O5/PPy layer plays an essential role in effectively preventing the bidirectional movement ofpolysulfides and the subsequent formation of inactive sulfur. Compared to those using polypyrrole separators,when equipped with a V2O5/PPy separator, the capacity retention after 100 cycles was recorded at 98%, with a measured rate of capacity degradation at just 0.016%, despite the sulfur content being as high as 1.84 mg cm⁻². Furthermore, after 400 cycles at 1C, the capacity retention rate reached 57.6%. The thoughtful design of this modified separator represents an effective strategy for improving the performance of Li-S batteries.

Observation of magnetic skyrmion lattice in Cr0.82Mn0.18Ge by small-angle neutron scattering

Incommensurate magnetic phases in chiral cubic crystals are an established source of topological spin textures such as skyrmion and hedgehog lattices, with potential applications in spintronics and information storage. We report a comprehensive small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) study on the B20-type chiral magnet CrMnGe, exploring its magnetic phase diagram and confirming the stabilization of a skyrmion lattice under low magnetic fields. Our results reveal a helical ground state with a decreasing pitch from 40 to 35 nm upon cooling, and a skyrmion phase stable in applied magnetic fields of 10–30 mT, and over an unusually wide temperature range for chiral magnets of 6 K (, K). The skyrmion lattice forms a standard two-dimensional hexagonal coordination that can be trained into a single domain, distinguishing it from the three-dimensional hedgehog lattice observed in MnGe-based systems. Additionally, we demonstrate the persistence of a metastable SkL at 2 K, even at zero field. These findings advance our understanding of magnetic textures in Cr-based B20 compounds, highlighting Cr0.82Mn0.18Ge as a promising material for further exploration in topological magnetism.

Diffusion, mechanical and thermal properties of sT hydrogen hydrate by machine learning potential

Newly-synthesized structure T (sT) hydrate show promising practical applications in hydrogen storage and transport, yet the properties remain poorly understood. Here, we develop a machine learning potential (MLP) of sT hydrogen hydrate derived from quantum-mechanical molecular dynamics simulations. Using this MLP forcefield, the structural, hydrogen diffusion, mechanical and thermal properties of sT hydrogen hydrate are extensively explored. It is revealed that the translational and rotational mobilities of hydrogen molecule in sT hydrate are limited due to unique shape and finite dimensional cavities, and tiny windows of neighboring cavities. sT hydrogen hydrate exhibits unique uniaxial tension stress-strain response, with first nonlinear increase to GPa-level but followed by deep drop in the stretching stress, indicating brittle failure, similar to that by Density Functional Theory and empirical forcefields. Moreover, temperature-dependent thermal conductivity in sT hydrogen hydrate is mainly contributed by hydrogen-bonded network formed by host water molecules, while hydrogen guest molecules play an insignificant role in the thermal transport.

A Review of LCA Studies on Marine Alternative Fuels: Fuels, Methodology, Case Studies, and Recommendations

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology can be used to quantitatively assess the greenhouse gas emissions of low- or zero-carbon marine alternative fuels throughout their life cycle (from well to wake) and is an important basis for ensuring a green energy transition in the shipping industry. This paper first clarifies the trends and requirements of low-carbon development in shipping and introduces the major ship emission reduction technologies and evaluation methods. Next, the characteristics of various alternative marine fuels (i.e., LNG, hydrogen, methanol, ammonia, and biofuels) are comprehensively discussed and analyzed in terms of production, storage, transportation, and ship applications. In addition, this work provides a comprehensive overview of LCA methodology, including its relevant standards and assessment tools, and establishes a framework for LCA of marine alternative fuels. On this basis, a literature review of the current research on LCA of marine alternative fuels from the perspectives of carbon emissions, pollution emissions, and economics is presented. The case review covers 64 alternative-fueled ships and 12 groups of fleets operating in different countries and waters. Finally, this paper discusses the main shortcomings that exist in the current research and provides an outlook on the future development of LCA research of marine alternative fuels.

Enhanced inorganic (SP26) phase change material with Na2HPO4 and graphene nanoplatelets for latent heat storage applications

Enhanced inorganic (SP26) phase change material with Na2HPO4 and graphene nanoplatelets for latent heat storage applications

Review of Thermal Management Techniques for Prismatic Li-Ion Batteries

This review presents a comprehensive analysis of battery thermal management systems (BTMSs) for prismatic lithium-ion cells, focusing on air and liquid cooling, heat pipes, phase change materials (PCMs), and hybrid solutions. Prismatic cells are increasingly favored in electric vehicles and energy storage applications due to their high energy content, efficient space utilization, and improved thermal management capabilities. We evaluate the effectiveness, advantages, and challenges of each thermal management technique, emphasizing their impact on performance, safety, and the lifespan of prismatic Li-ion batteries. The analysis reveals that while traditional air and liquid cooling methods remain widely used, 80% of the 21 real-world BTMS samples mentioned in this review employ liquid cooling. However, emerging technologies such as PCM and hybrid systems offer superior thermal regulation, particularly in high-power applications. However, both PCM and hybrid systems come with significant challenges; PCM systems are limited by their low thermal conductivity and material melting points. While hybrid systems face complexity, cost, and potential reliability concerns due to their multiple components nature. This review underscores the need for continued research into advanced BTMSs to optimize energy efficiency, safety, and longevity for prismatic cells in electric vehicle applications and beyond.

Material Selection and Characterization Based on Shape, Size Enhance Thermal Stability for Energy Storage Applications

The study explores phase change materials enhanced with complex dispersants, primarily aimed at improving the efficiency of TES systems. The energy storage and chemical stability of transition particles are anticipated to be highly dependent on their shape and size. The samples are characterized based on melting and solidification phases evaluated. Commercial phase change materials (0.1 wt.%) such as Al2O3, C13H11NO, C6H14O6, C6H6O2, Fe2O3, KSCN, C7H6O3, and ZnO at different pH stability (2.4-7.035) having purity 99% were dispersed in H2O and Ethylene glycol. The effect of particles in phase change materials was analyzed using TGA, FTIR, XRD, zeta potential, particle size, and FESEM for Al₂O₃ and C₆H₆O₂. The TGA enhances thermal stability with melting point temperature range from 184°C to 189.90°C mixture of Al₂O₃ and C₆H₆O₂ under weight loss conditions. The performance of zeta potential and particle size was evaluated and significantly impact their pH stability of low to medium temperature. Zeta potential is measured using methods such as concentration-based volume fraction analysis and the electrophoretic migration technique. To enhance performance the synthesis and characterization of functional materials rely significantly on determining their isoelectric point. To define functional group base hydrophobic and hydrogen bonding as their primary driving forces. For PCMs, the XRD method is utilized to analyze the atomic spacing and crystal structure in order to identify every potential plane. The spherical structure of nanophase changes particles and the required form of a rod were potential improvements for high-energy storage stability applications.

Investigation of thermal energy storage capacities of phase change material embedded different bio-based materials converted into biochar

Abstract In recent years, latent heat thermal energy storage systems have emerged as a significant technique for addressing the variable nature of renewable energy sources, balancing energy demand, and enhancing energy efficiency. Additionally, phase change materials (PCMs) with high latent energy storage capabilities have become increasingly popular as the preferred materials for thermal energy storage applications. This study investigates the effects of using composite materials with phase change materials embedded in biochar pores through microencapsulation on improvements in latent energy storage capacity. To achieve this, various organic materials, including hazelnut shells, peanut shell, pine cone, and poplar sawdust, were converted into composite biochar through pyrolysis, thereby enhancing their porosity. The results obtained are given in comparison with the results of composite materials with phase change materials encapsulated in the pores of the raw material. The latent heats of the composites impregnated with phase change material (PCM) in their pores were compared to identify the most suitable composite biochar material. The best performance improvements in energy storage capacities compared to the raw material results were found to be 134.8% and 147.6% for RT-28/Peanut shell biochar and RT-28/Pine cone biochar composites, respectively. On the other hand, the highest energy storage capacity for both raw material and biochar was measured as 50.18 J/g and 75.1 J/g for poplar sawdust, respectively. The results indicated that poplar sawdust was the most appropriate base material.

Surface Sulfurization and Self‐Reconstruction Strategy for Decorating Carbon Nanofibers to Fabricate Sheet‐Like NiCo2S4 Grown on Ni3S2 Electrode

In this study, transition metal sulfide‐based binder‐free hybrid electrodes were grown in‐situ on Ni foam using a simple hydrothermal method. However, it still remains a challenge for designing a heterostructure with sufficient electroactive sites to improve electrochemical performance. Herein, effects of CNF‐wrapped NSNCS on Ni foam binder‐free composites were investigated for developing high‐performance, low‐cost supercapacitors. By avoiding the use of additive binding polymers, the purity of the electrodes was enhanced, resulting in excellent electrochemical behavior. The prepared binder‐free CNF@NSNCS composite electrode exhibited an ultrahigh specific capacitance of 2739 F/g at a current density of 1 A/g, with superior capacitance retention charge‐discharge cycle stability of 100% over continuous 14,000 cycles at 10 A/g. Furthermore, an asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) was assembled using CNF@NSNCS binder‐free composites as the positive electrode and Activated carbon (AC) as the negative electrode. The assembled devices demonstrated superior electrochemical performance, delivering a high energy density of 77.5 Wh/kg at a power density of 748.4 W/kg. This work may contribute to advancing the development of low‐cost, high‐performance energy storage applications for the next generation of portable electronic devices.

Unraveling Redox Mediator-Assisted Chemical Relithiation Mechanism for Direct Recycling of Spent Ni-Rich Layered Cathode Materials.

The increasing demand for Li-ion batteries across various energy storage applications underscores the urgent need for environmentally friendly and efficient direct recycling strategies to address the issue of substantial cathode waste. Diverse reducing agents for Li supplements, such as quinone molecules, have been considered to homogenize the Li distribution in the cathode materials obtained after cycling; however, the detailed reaction mechanism is still unknown. Herein, the ideal electrochemical potential factor and reaction mechanism of the redox mediator 3,5-di-tert-butyl-o-benzoquinone (DTBQ) for the chemical relithiation of high-Ni-layered cathodes are elucidated. Here, 100% efficiency of DTBQ-assisted chemical relithiation is achieved by adjusting the direct immersion time of Li-deficient cathode electrodes. The reversible reaction features of the physical and chemical structures of both the regenerated cathodes and the DTBQ molecules are investigated using advanced characterization and density functional theory calculations. These findings emphasize the potential of redox-mediator-assisted chemical relithiation for realizing direct recycling processes and offer a facile and sustainable solution for battery recycling.

Ab Initio Studies of the Discharge Mechanism of CuO Cathodes Modified with Bi2O3 in Rechargeable Alkaline Zn/CuO Batteries

Abstract Rechargeable alkaline Zn/CuO batteries are a promising candidate for energy storage applications due to their high capacity and low cost. Recent studies have shown that the addition of Bi2O3 and the implementation of carbon coating on CuO cathodes enhances the performance and improves the cyclability of Zn/CuO batteries. However, the mechanism of influence of Bi2O3 on the electrochemical performance of CuO cathodes in rechargeable Zn/CuO batteries is not fully understood. We apply density functional computational methods to investigate the electrochemical discharge of CuO cathodes modified with a Bi2O3 additive. Our calculations suggests that the improved performance of Zn/CuO-Bi2O3 cells could be partially attributed to the formation of stable mixed Cu-Bi oxides, such as CuBi2O4, which suppress the accumulation of highly resistive Cu2O in the battery cathode. The results of our study are consistent with the experimental observations that confirm the presence of CuBi2O4 in CuO cathodes modified with Bi2O3.

Construction of optical lattice-type skyrmion arrays in tightly focused electromagnetic field.

By utilizing the time inversion of radiation from spatial dipole arrays, we propose a method for constructing the spatial lattice-type skyrmion arrays under 4π focusing conditions, including Néel-, Bloch-, and Anti-skyrmions/merons. The Richards-Wolf vector diffraction theory is applied to analyze the radiation field emitted by dipole arrays, aiming to determine the incident field required under a high numerical aperture (NA=0.95). We construct spatial optical skyrmion arrays consisting of multiple topological points and investigate the distribution characteristics of the tightly focused field. The results indicate that diverse morphologies of optical skyrmions/merons can be achieved by adjusting the vectorial distribution within the unit dipole arrays. The high degree of freedom in combining optical skyrmion arrays holds significant potential for applications in high-density storage and precision measurement.

Revealing the Water Structure at Neutral and Charged Graphene/Water Interfaces through Quantum Simulations of Sum Frequency Generation Spectra.

The structure and dynamics of water at charged graphene interfaces fundamentally influence molecular responses to electric fields with implications for applications in energy storage, catalysis, and surface chemistry. Leveraging the realism of the MB-pol data-driven many-body potential and advanced path-integral quantum dynamics, we analyze the vibrational sum frequency generation (vSFG) spectrum of graphene/water interfaces under varying surface charges. Our quantum simulations reveal a distinctive dangling OH peak in the vSFG spectrum at neutral graphene, consistent with recent experimental findings yet markedly different from those of earlier studies. As the graphene surface becomes positively charged, interfacial water molecules reorient, decreasing the intensity of the dangling OH peak as the OH groups turn away from the graphene. In contrast, water molecules orient their OH bonds toward negatively charged graphene, leading to a prominent dangling OH peak in the corresponding vSFG spectrum. This charge-induced reorganization generates a diverse range of hydrogen-bonding topologies at the interface driven by variations in the underlying electrostatic interactions. Importantly, these structural changes extend into deeper water layers, creating an unequal distribution of molecules with OH bonds pointing toward and away from the graphene sheet. This imbalance amplifies bulk spectral features, underscoring the complexity of many-body interactions that shape the molecular structure of water at charged graphene interfaces.

Electrically conducting porous hydrogels by a self-assembled percolating pristine graphene network.

This study introduces a method for synthesizing electrically conductive hydrogels by incorporating a self-assembled, percolating graphene network. Our approach differs from previous approaches in two crucial aspects: using pristine graphene rather than graphene oxide and self-assembling the percolation network rather than creating random networks by blending. We use pristine graphene at an oil-water interface to stabilize a water-in-oil emulsion, successfully creating hydrogel foams with conductivities up to 15 mS m-1 and tunable porosity. Our approach avoids the need for the conductivity-degrading oxidation process to form GO and decreases the amount of graphitic filler needed for percolation, leading to superior mechanical properties. The concentration of monomer and graphite in the emulsion was optimized to control the cell size, stability, and swelling behavior of the final hydrogels, offering versatility in structure and functionality. Electrical conductivity and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) confirmed the stability and conductive properties imparted by the graphene network. This method demonstrates a cost-effective route to conductive hydrogels, making them promising candidates for applications in sensors, energy storage, bioelectronics, and other advanced technologies.

AA-Stacked Hydrogen-Substituted Graphdiyne for Enhanced Lithium Storage.

Graphdiyne (GDY) has been considered a promising electrode materialfor application in electrochemical energy storage. However, studies on GDY featuring an ordered interlayer stacking are lacking, which is supposed to be another effective way to increase lithium binding sites and diffusion pathways. Herein, we synthesized a hydrogen-substituted GDY (HsGDY) with a highly-ordered AA-stacking structurevia a facile alcohol-thermal method. Such unique architecture enables a rapid lithium transfer through the well-organized pore channels and endows a stronger adsorption capability to lithium atom as compared to the arbitrarily-stacked mode. The resultant HsGDY exhibits a reversible capacity of 1040 mA h g-1 at 0.05 A g-1ranking among the most powerful GDY-based electrode materials, and an excellent rate performanceas well as a long-term cycling stability. The successful preparationof gram-level high-quality HsGDY products in batches implies thepotential for large-scale lithium-storage applications.

Starch-Assisted Eco-Friendly Synthesis of ZnO Nanoparticles: Enhanced Photocatalytic, Supercapacitive, and UV-Driven Antioxidant Properties with Low Cytotoxic Effects.

This study presents an efficient and environmentally sustainable synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles using a starch-mediated sol-gel approach. This method yields crystalline mesoporous ZnO NPs with a hexagonal wurtzite structure. The synthesized nanoparticles demonstrated remarkable multifunctionality across three critical applications. In photocatalysis, the ZnO NPs exhibited exceptional efficiency, achieving complete degradation of methylene blue within 15 min at pH 11, significantly surpassing the performance of commercial ZnO. Under neutral pH conditions, the nanoparticles effectively degraded various organic dyes, including methylene blue, rhodamine B, and methyl orange, following pseudo-first-order kinetics. The methylene blue degradation process was aligned with the Langmuir-Hinshelwood model, emphasizing their advanced catalytic properties. For supercapacitor applications, the ZnO NPs attained a high specific capacitance of 550 F/g at 1 A/g, underscoring their potential as energy storage solutions. Additionally, the nanoparticles demonstrated strong UV-induced antiradical activity, with an EC50 of 32.2 μg/mL in DPPH assays. Notably, the cytotoxicity evaluation revealed an LC50 of 1648 μg/mL, indicating excellent biocompatibility. This study highlights a sustainable approach for the synthesis of multifunctional ZnO NPs that offers effective solutions for environmental remediation, energy storage, and biomedical applications.

Recent advances in synthesis and application of Magnéli phase titanium oxides for energy storage and environmental remediation.

High-temperature reduction of TiO2 causes the gradual formation of structural defects, leading to oxygen vacancy planar defects and giving rise to Magnéli phases, which are substoichiometric titanium oxides that follow the formula Ti n O2n-1, with 4 ≤ n ≤ 9. A high concentration of defects provides several possible configurations for Ti4+ and Ti3+ within the crystal, with the variation in charge ordered states changing the electronic structure of the material. The changes in crystal and electronic structures of Magnéli phases introduce unique properties absent in TiO2, facilitating their diverse applications. Their exceptional electrical conductivity, stability in harsh chemical environments and capability to generate hydroxyl radicals make them highly valuable in electrochemical applications. Additionally, their high specific capacity and corrosion resistance make them ideal for energy storage facilities. These properties, combined with excellent solar light absorption, have led to their widespread use in electrochemical, photochemical, photothermal, catalytic and energy storage applications. To provide a complete overview of the formation, properties, and environmental- and energy-related applications of Magnéli phase titanium suboxides, this review initially highlights the crystal structure and the physical, thermoelectrical and optical properties of these materials. The conventional and novel strategies developed to synthesise these materials are then discussed, along with potential approaches to overcome challenges associated with current issues and future low-energy fabrication methods. Finally, we provide a comprehensive overview of their applications across various fields, including environmental remediation, energy storage, and thermoelectric and optoelectronic technologies. We also discuss promising new directions for the use of Magnéli phase titanium suboxides and solutions to challenges in energy and environment-related applications, and provide guidance on how these materials can be developed and utilised to meet diverse research application needs. By making use of control measures to mitigate the potential hazards associated with their nanoparticles, Magnéli phases can be considered as versatile materials with potential for next generation energy needs.

Ultrahigh Energy Density in All‐Organic Composites Synergistically Tailored by PMMA and Molecular Semiconductor

AbstractThe inherent limitations (particularly low discharged energy density, Ud ≈2 J∙cm−3) of commercially available biaxially‐oriented polypropylene (BOPP) film capacitors significantly restrict their broader application in advanced energy storage systems. This study presents a novel approach to overcome this limitation through the development of all‐organic dielectric composite films. A ternary polymer blend matrix, comprising poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF), and poly(vinylidene fluoride‐hexafluoropropylene) (P(VDF‐HFP)), is employed, with the incorporation of 1,4,5,8‐naphthalenetetracarboxylic dianhydride (NTCDA) molecular semiconductors as nanofillers. Systematic investigation reveals that controlled modulation of the PMMA content within the blend matrix effectively suppresss leakage current by reducing crystallinity, minimizing crystallite size, and stabilizing the γ‐phase in the ferroelectric polymer matrix. Simultaneously, the introduction of NTCDA nanofillers create a high density of deep electron traps, thereby impeding charge injection and enhancing charge carrier trapping within the composite film. The optimized composite film, incorporating 0.5 vol.% NTCDA and 40 wt.% PMMA within the PVDF/P(VDF‐HFP) matrix, demonstrates a substantial enhancement in both breakdown strength (Eb) of 1054 MV∙m−1 and Ud of 28.10 J∙cm−3, representing a considerable improvement over conventional BOPP‐based capacitor. These findings offer a promising strategy for the design and fabrication of high‐performance all‐organic dielectric composite films for next‐generation energy storage applications.

Anode-Free Zinc-Bromine Batteries Enabled by a Simple Prenucleation Strategy.

The design of anode-free zinc (Zn) batteries with high reversibility at high areal capacity has received significant attention recently, which is quietly challenging yet. Here, a Zn alloyed interface through electroplating is introduced, providing homogeneous Zn prenucleation sites to stabilize subsequent Zn nucleation and plating. By employing Zn-Cu alloy as a module, the complementary simulations and characterizations confirm that the prenucleation alloyed interfaces achieve a homogeneous electric field distribution and greatly enhance the stability of the Zn anode. Accordingly, the Zn//Zn-Cu@Cu half-cells show a long cycle life of over 900h and an average Coulombic efficiency (CE) of 99.8% at an areal capacity of10 mAh cm-2. The assembled anode-free zinc-bromine (Zn-Br2) battery exhibits an attractive stable cycling of 11 000 cycles at 1 mAh cm-2, while over 1000 cycles at the higher areal capacity of 10 mAh cm-2. Excitingly, the Zn-Br2 pouch cell with a capacity of 1000 mAh operates stably over 50 cycles, and achieves successful integration with photovoltaic systems. This anode-free Zn-Br2 batteries constructed through a prenucleation strategy offer new insights into the potential for large-scale energy storage applications.