Compact Interface Research Articles

Polyimide strengthened cement mortar

Abstract This study examined the effects of silane-modified polyimide polymer (PIS) on cement mortar. The PIS was added to replace cement in a specified ratio. Obtained results revealed that the PIS caused retardation on setting time, and accelerated UPV mostly by encapsulating unhydrated cement particles, filling pores, or reacting with C–S–H and Ca(OH)2 with shifting to Si–O vibrations. SEM results showed a good compact interface without forming considerable agglomeration and voids on the microstructure, and this improved flexural and compressive strength properties. In conclusion, silane-modified polyimide as an admixture or cement replacement can be recommended for construction industries to enhance the properties of cement mortar.

Enhanced passivity of reinforcing steel in cementitious materials with thermally-activated red mud

Red mud (RM) is a solid waste from aluminium industry that can be used as an emerging supplementary cementitious material, and it has beneficial effects on the corrosion resistance of reinforcing steel in concrete. However, the low reactivity of RM reduces the comprehensive performance of cementitious materials, thereby limiting its widespread application in concrete. In this study, RM was thermally activated and the phase transformation behavior of the thermally-activated RM (TA-RM) was studied. Additionally, the passivation behavior of steel in extract solutions and mortars containing RM with and without thermal activation was investigated using electrochemical methods, surface characterization techniques and compositional analysis. The results showed that the reactivity of RM was effectively improved by the thermal activation treatment due to the phase transformation, and the enhanced steel passivity was observed in both extract solution and mortar with TA-RM. Compared to steel exposed to extract solutions, the mortar containing TA-RM could provide an additional protection for the embedded steel by forming a compact steel-mortar interface, further improving its passivation ability.

A HKUST-1 coating with copper metal active site enables stabilized zinc metal anode

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) are considered to be one of the alternatives for large-scale energy storage devices due to unique advantages. However, the harmful Zn dendrites generation of Zn anodes seriously hinders the development of AZIBs. Herein, Cu3(BTC)2 (HKUST-1) as a compact functional interface layer on the surface of bare Zn foil is shown to improve the reversibility of Zn-plating/stripping process. Interestingly, HKUST-1 possesses high porosity, large number of water molecule vacancies, and Cu active center, which help to enhance the diffusion kinetics of Zn2+ and reduce the surface free energy of Zn electrode. Combining theoretical calculations with experiments, the HKUST-1 can contribute to the desolvation process of Zn[(H2O)6]2+ and balance Zn2+ concentration, which thus accelerate Zn2+ transfer kinetics, lower interfacial energy, and homogenize ion-distribution. Attributed to these superiorities, the HKUST-1@Zn symmetric cells demonstrate excellent stable plating/stripping for over 250 h under ultra-high current density (20 mA/cm2 and 20 mAh/cm2). Furthermore, a HKUST-1@Zn||MnO2 full cell exhibits an enhanced long-cycling performance with a discharge capacity of 114 mAh/g after undergoing 500 cycles. All results demonstrate the potential application of HKUST-1 coating in AZIBs.

Study on the composite compatibility and interfacial properties of excess sulfate phosphogypsum cementing system to OPC and C[formula omitted]A

Releasable sulfate contained in the Excess Sulfate Phosphogypsum Cementing System (ESPCS) potentially degrades interfaces when contacted with conventional cements, raising incompatibility concerns. This work evaluated fresh connection, adhesion, and aggregate embedment of ESPCS to ordinary Portland cement (OPC) and Calcium sulfoaluminate cement (CS¯A), with mechanical and interfacial properties studied. Results indicate the discrepancy in hydration properties gives Excess-sulfate Phosphogypsum Slag Cement (EPSC) uncoordinated expansion to OPC, followed by cracks (95 μm) generation. Meanwhile, expansive ettringite forms in the interface due to bleeding sulfate-rich water concentration, thus leaving a porous contact zone (1240 μm, 11.29%) and resultant flexural strength reduction of OPC-EPSC mortar (by > 36%). Conversely, EPSC and CS¯A are close in phase assemblages, resulting in compact interface and higher bond strength. Incorporating the Phosphogypsum-based Cold Bonded Aggregates (PCBAs) into OPC induces the interfacial ettringite formation-sulfate attack by internal curing water, yielding the worst composite performance, i.e., the lowest 360 d compressive strength (38.8 MPa) of concrete OPCC, lower than EPSCC (48.6 MPa) and CS¯AC (50.3 MPa). ESPCS is more compatible to CS¯A than OPC which is advised against exposing directly with ESPCS. This work helps specify composite feasibility and conditions of ESPCS with typical cement composites.

A Compact Coupling Interface Method with Second-Order Gradient Approximation for Elliptic Interface Problems

A Compact Coupling Interface Method with Second-Order Gradient Approximation for Elliptic Interface Problems

Dendrite‐Free Zn Metal Anodes with Boosted Stability Achieved by Four‐in‐One Functional Additive in Aqueous Rechargeable Zinc Batteries

AbstractZn interfacial issues involved dendrite evolution and undesired parasitic reactions are tough challenges to impede the progress of Zn ion battery. Herein, dendrite‐free Zn anode with boosted stability is achieved by four‐in‐one functional additive triethyl phosphate (TEP). Experiments and theoretical calculation reveal that TEP additive participates in the generation of compact inorganic interface to prevent Zn from corrosion. Meanwhile, the interfacial electrical double layer (EDL) is reconstructed with adsorbed TEP molecules in inner layer and weakened Zn2+ solvation structure in diffusion layer, which efficiently shields Zn from active H2O and moderate electrochemical kinetics, thereby preventing water‐related secondary reaction and Zn electroplating on tip region. Additionally, TEP additive manipulates zinc growth direction by adsorbing on the (002) facet, thus enabling long‐lasting dendrite‐free deposition. Accordingly, Zn||Zn symmetric cell demonstrates an ultralong lifespan over 5000 h (almost 7 months) at 1 mA cm−2, 1 mAh cm−2 and remarkable coulombic efficiency (CE) of ≈97.6% for 1500 cycles. For practical demonstration, Zn||LiFePO4 full cell demonstrates an improved rate capability and an elevated capacity of 116.0 mAh g−1. These findings highlight interface chemistry manipulated by multifunctional additives as an efficient approach to stabilize Zn anode, holding promise for top‐notch Zn‐based batteries with improved longevity.

Enhancing rheology and reducing lipid digestion of oil-in-water emulsions using controlled aggregation and heteroaggregation of soybean protein isolate-peach gum microspheres

There is a growing interest in developing highly viscous lipid foods using plant protein and polysaccharide gum-based emulsion technology. However, gaps remain in understanding the rheological, microstructural, and digestive properties of plant proteins like soybean protein isolate (SPI) in combination with various gums. This study investigates how combining SPI and peach gum (PG) affects rheology and lipolysis of oil-in-water (O/W) emulsions containing 20 wt% soybean oil. Emulsions with varying SPI and PG compositions including SPI-PG single and SPI/PG mixed droplet systems were prepared. Heating induced alterations in viscosity (e.g., SPI-PG from 14.88 to 90.27 Pa·s and SPI/PG from 9.66 to 85.32 Pa·s) and microstructure revealing aggregate formation at oil-water interface. The viscosity decreased significantly from the oral to intestinal phase (SPI-PG: 28.10 to 0.19 Pa·s, SPI/PG: 21.27 to 0.10 Pa·s). These changes affected lipid digestion, notably in SPI-PG and SPI/PG emulsions where a compact interface hindered lipolysis during digestion. Interestingly, free fatty acid (FFA) release during small intestinal phase followed a different order: SPI (82.51 %) > SPI-PG (70.77 %) > SPI/PG (63.60 %) > PG (56.09 %). This study provides insights into creating highly viscous O/W spreads with improved rheology, stability, and delayed lipid digestion, offering potential benefits in food product formulation.

Effects of Β-sitosterol oleogel on fat uptake reduction, physicochemical properties, oxidative stability, and sensory characteristics of fried surimi fish balls

Surimi, a minced fish meat, is available in various forms, including deep-fried surimi. However, deep-fried surimi tends to absorb high amounts of oil during frying, potentially contributing to obesity and cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, its high fat content renders it susceptible to lipid oxidation during storage, which can degrade its quality over time. Therefore, reducing oil absorption and subsequent oxidation is crucial for enhancing the quality of deep-fried surimi. In this study, we prepared oleogels with varying concentrations of β-sitosterol and investigated their effects on fat uptake, physicochemical attributes, oxidative stability, and sensory properties of frozen (−18 °C) fried surimi fish balls over a period of 30 days. Images that were obtained by scanning electron microscope demonstrated that surimi fish balls with 0.2 % β-sitosterol oleogel had a more compact and smoother crust-core interface than other groups. The addition of 0.2 % β-sitosterol oleogel led to the lowest fat absorption (8.63 %), decreased lipid oxidation (3.65 mg MDA/kg), reduced porosity, higher moisture content (57.72 %), elevated pH and color values, as well as increased bulk density compared to the control (p ≤ 0.05). Although atherogenicity and thrombogenesis indices increased, they remained below recommended levels. Importantly, this treatment did not adversely affect the product's texture and sensory properties. Given the increasing demand for healthier food products, it is recommended that the food industry incorporate 0.2 % β-sitosterol oleogel into the production of low-fat fried surimi. This approach can effectively mitigate lipid oxidation while maintaining product quality and sensory attributes. The study offers a valuable contribution to the food industry by addressing the challenges associated with deep-fried surimi and aligns with the growing consumer preference for healthier food choices.

Safety and Effect of Fly Ash Content on Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Green Low-Carbon Concrete

Based on the promotion and application of green and low-carbon technology, this study aims to develop a high-safety performance cement concrete incorporating a large dosage of fly ash (FA). The safety and effect of FA content on the mechanical properties of FA composited cement were studied through compressive strength, flexural strength, and microscopic tests. The results show that when the FA replaced 20% cement, the properties of concrete were the best in this study. The flexural strengths and compressive strengths of the standard cured concrete for 28 days with 20% FA content are 0.82 MPa and 4.32 MPa larger than that of the pure cement concrete. The XRD and SEM analysis suggested that the mechanical properties of the composite cement FA system are improved significantly since the replacement of cement by FA promotes secondary hydration of calcium hydroxide in the concrete, leading to a more compact and safe interface between cement and FA.

Facile in situ polymerization synthesis of poly(ionic liquid)-based polymer electrolyte for high-performance solid-state batteries

The rational one-step design of poly(ionic liquid) solid polymer electrolyte (PIL-SPE) with outstanding ionic conductivity and inferior interfacial resistance with Li-electrode to preclude the Li-dendrite growth and interfacial instability of solid-state lithium metal batteries (ASLMBs) remains a grand challenge. Herein, we provide a s facile, one-step, and productive approach for the synthesis of PIL-SPE via the in situ polymerization of 1-vinyl-3-butylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethanesulfony)imide ([VBIm][TFSI]) in the presence of bis(trifluoromethane) sulfonamide lithium salt (LiTFSI) using azodiisobutyronitrile (AIBN) as initiator. This approach endows a compact and compatible interface between Li-electrode and PIL-SPE with an excellent ionic conductivity that depends on the Li-salt concentration. Thereby, in situ polymerization of monomer with 40 wt% LiTFSI (PIL-SPE-LiTFSI-40) revealed the highest ionic conductivity of 1.35 × 10-3 S cm−1 at 303 K and 6.16 × 10-3 S cm−1 at 353 K, besides excellent lithium transference number (0.54), oxidative stability up to 5.3 V, and constant current plating/stripping cycles for 1000 h at 0.15 mA cm−2. Meanwhile, ASLMBs composed of PIL-SPE with LiFePO4 and LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathodes delivered discharge capacities of 164.3 mA h g−1 and 155.3 mA h g−1 at 0.1 C, respectively, along with 92 % capacity retention after 100 cycles. This study may revolutionize the synthesis of PIL-SPE electrolytes for the next generation of efficient and durable ASLMBs.

Corrosion characteristics of in situ hybrid (Al3Ni + Al2O3)/Al composites synthesized by the solid-state combustion

Abstract In this study, in situ hybrid (Al3Ni + Al2O3)/Al composites were prepared successfully by the solid-state combustion via Al–NiO system. The effects of Al3Ni + Al2O3 on the corrosion features of composites were analyzed using potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and immersion corrosion in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution. The results show that with the increase of NiO addition, the corrosion resistance of composites is improved, and the corrosion resistance of 15 % NiO–Al composite is almost comparable to the Al matrix. The increased quantity and dispersive distribution of Al3Ni and Al2O3 particles can effectively prevent the occurrence of corrosion and the movement of free electrons. Besides, more fine Al2O3 particles distributed in grain boundaries can increase the impedance and hinder the electrochemical corrosion preferentially starting at the boundary. Also, in the composite with high NiO addition, a better and compact interface bonding can be formed due to reduction of large size Al3Ni particles and improvement in the dispersion of particles, thereby inhibiting interface damage. This study has advanced understanding of corrosion.

Structural effects of AgNWs/MXene in artificial nacre‐Like hybrid cellulose nanofiber films on electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding performance

AbstractThe heterogeneous interface generally offers unique conductive behaviors in nacre‐like films. Reasonable interface and composition regulation are important to enhance EMI shielding performance when containing one and two dimensional nanofillers together. Herein, a series of flexible cellulose‐based EMI shielding nacre‐like films with different content of AgNWs and/or Ti3C2Tx nanosheets were prepared by vacuum‐assisted filtration method. To explore their different interaction behaviors, three different nacre structures (mixed, double‐layered, and multilayered structure) are fully prepared. The comparison results show that the Ti3C2Tx sheets are more advantageous to form a conductive path at a lower addition (<15%) than AgNWs. Surprisingly, the mixed structure leads to even lower SET values due to the break of original compact conductive network and interface resistance enhancement. Particularly, the layered‐structure film obtains the synergistic effect. However, with increasing layer numbers, the SET values reached the maximum at six layers (54.86 dB) and then dropped to 51.50 dB at eight layers, which is even lower than that of two layers (52.36 dB). Consequently, this work provided a detailed contrastive experimental process and discussion to obtain optimal EMI shielding films by adjusting composition and architecture. The interface coupling strategy may offer a useful path to guide the structural design.Highlights EMI shielding nacre‐like films were prepared with interface structure. Synergistic shielding effect of 1D AgNWs and 2D Ti3C2Tx nanosheets. Mixed, double‐layered, and multilayered structural films were prepared. The layered structure exhibits superior EMI SE than mixed structure. Excessive layered structure leads to the degradation of EMI SE.

Construction of core-shell CoSe2/ZnIn2S4 heterostructures for efficient visible-light-driven photocatalytic hydrogen evolution.

The use of photocatalysts based on semiconductor heterostructures for hydrogen evolution is a prospective tactic for converting solar energy. Herein, visible-light-responsive three-dimensional core-shell CoSe2/ZnIn2S4 heterostructures were successfully fabricated via in situ growth of ZnIn2S4 ultrathin nanosheets on spherical CoSe2. Without any noble metal co-catalysts, the as-prepared CoSe2/ZnIn2S4 composite achieved attractive photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity under visible light illumination. Optimal CoSe2/ZnIn2S4 achieved a hydrogen evolution rate of 2199 μmol g-1 h-1, which was 7 times higher than that of pristine ZnIn2S4 and even exceeded that of ZnIn2S4 loaded with platinum. In this distinctive core-shell heterostructure, the presence of CoSe2 could considerably improve the ability to harvest light, quicken the charge transfer kinetics, and avoid the agglomeration of ZnIn2S4 nanosheets. Meanwhile, the experimental results demonstrated that the strong interaction between CoSe2 and ZnIn2S4 at the compact interface could appropriately boost the photogenerated electron-hole pair migration and relieve charge recombination, thus improving photocatalytic hydrogen evolution activity. This work has bright prospects in constructing noble-metal-free core-shell heterostructures for solar energy conversion.

Bioinformatics prediction and screening of viral mimicry candidates through integrating known and predicted DMI data.

Domain-motif interactions (DMIs) represent transient bonds formed when a Short Linear Motif (SLiM) engages a globular domain via a compact contact interface. Understanding the mechanics of DMIs is critical for maintaining diverse regulatory processes and deciphering how various viruses hijack host cellular machinery. However, identifying DMIs through traditional in vitro and in vivo experiments is challenging due to their degenerate nature and small contact areas. Predictions often carry a high rate of false positives, necessitating rigorous in-silico validation before embarking on experimental work. This study assessed the binding energy changes in predicted SLiM instances through in-silico peptide exchange experiment, elucidating how they interact with known 3D DMI complexes. We identified a subset of potential mimicry candidates that exhibited effective binding affinities with native DMI structures, suggesting their potential to be true mimicry candidates. The identified viral SLiMs can be potential targets in developing therapeutics, opening new opportunities for innovative treatments that can be finely tuned to address the complex molecular underpinnings of various diseases. To gain a comprehensive understanding of identified DMIs, it is imperative to conduct further validation through experimental approaches.

Preparation and enhanced mechanical properties of novel Al2O3‐C ceramic filter reinforced by microporous powder and SiC whiskers

AbstractIn present work, the novel Al2O3‐C ceramic filter fabricated by using microporous corundum‐spinel powder instead of dense Al2O3 powder and reinforced by SiC whiskers is proposed. The effects of Si powder content (0, 3, 6, and 9 wt. %) on the microstructures and mechanical properties of the filters were studied. After replacing the α‐Al2O3 micro‐powder with microporous corundum‐spinel powder, the in situ spinel whiskers were formed inside the filter skeleton under the reducing atmosphere. The rough surface structure of the microporous powder increased the interface contact area with the small‐sized carbon particles, resulting in a compact interface bonding in the filter skeleton and a higher cold compressive strength of the filter. When the Si powder content increased to 6–9 wt. %, the in‐situ SiC whiskers were formed not only between the microporous powder, but also inside the pores near the surface of it by vapor‐solid reaction mechanism in the filter skeleton. The SiC whiskers synergized with the microporous powder to form a more compact interface structure, thus remarkably enhancing their cold compressive strength and thermal shock resistance. Overall, the mechanical properties of the filters were significantly improved by the addition of 9 wt. % Si powder. The filter skeleton had an apparent porosity of 36.2% and a bulk density of 1.93 g/cm3. The filter also exhibited a high cold compressive strength of 1.59 MPa and a superior thermal shock resistance. It has the potential for better purification efficiency on molten steel in the future due to a rougher skeleton surface structure compared to existing Al2O3‐C filters.

Effective enhanced photocatalytic H2O2 production through synergistic oxygen vacancy defects and In situ-growth Z-scheme BiOBr/WO3 heterojunction with compact interface

Rational heterojunction interface construction and defect engineering have been regarded as significant strategies to enhance the photocatalytic performance of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production. Herein, a novel 2D/1D BiOBr/WO3 Z-scheme heterostructure with compact interface and rich oxygen vacancies (OVs) was successfully fabricated by an in situ-growth procedure. The rational design architecture and electronic structure allow the photocatalytic system to fully optimize light absorption, charge separation, and surface redox reaction. Benefited from synergistic effect of the formation of compact Z-scheme heterostructur and oxygen vacancies, the as-prepared BiOBr/WO3 photocatalysts exhibit a greatly improved photocatalytic performance in the production of H2O2 with a yield of 82.4 mM/h/g. We believe that this work provides a novel sight to develop high-efficiency photocatalyst via microstructure nanointerface control and defect engineering.

Multiphilic-Zn group “adhesion” strategy toward highly stable and reversible zinc anodes

The application of aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) has been bottlenecked by the dendritic problems and complex side reactions of zinc anodes, although it shows great potential for application. Herein, we propose a strategy for reconstructing the electric double layer on the Zn surface by chemisorption of sodium hyaluronate (SH) to assist in regulating the charge distribution on the zinc surface and limiting the selective diffusion of zinc ions. Experiments and theoretical calculations confirm that the adsorbed functional groups allow the water molecules originally free on the surface of the zinc anode to be squeezed out and form a water-poor state, thus establishing the zinc anode-SH molecular interface and leading to an electrical double-layer reconstruction; In addition, the strong interaction between Zn and SH induces the directional deposition of Zn towards the (002) crystal plane, thus constituting a homogeneous and compact deposition interface. Due to the powerful dynamic regulation of SH, the Zn anode exhibits an impressive runtime of 6300 h with stable and reversible zinc deposition/stripping efficiency and low-temperature performance. This strategy of inducing directional Zn deposition via organic functional groups offers a new perspective for future Zn anode and safeaqueous cell design.

Development of bismuth-rich bismuth oxyhalides based photocatalyst for degradation of a representative antibiotic under simulated solar light irradiation

In this study, the novel 2D/2D S-scheme Bi12O15Cl6/BiOCl heterojunction was fabricated using a facile solvothermal followed by a post-thermal treatment process. The samples were characterized by various modern spectroscopy techniques. A series of Bi12O15Cl6/BiOCl heterojunctions were prepared by adjusting the molar ratio of Bi:Cl and the calcination temperature. The crystalline structure, morphology, elemental composition, and optical properties of nanocomposites strongly depend on the synthesis conditions. The sample prepared with Bi:Cl molar ratio of 2.0:1 and calcined at 400 °C (BOC-2.0-400) containing 29.55 wt% of BiOCl and 70.45 wt% of Bi12O15Cl6, exhibited the highest efficiency in the degradation of CIP solution under simulated solar light irradiation. The reaction rate constant was 2.5 times and 1.8 times higher than that of pristine BiOCl and Bi12O15Cl6, respectively. Under the experimental conditions of catalyst dosage of 0.7 gL-1, initial CIP concentration of 10 mgL-1 and pH8.8, CIP was completely degraded within 150 min of irradiation over the BOC-2.0-400. Furthermore, radical scavenging studies signified that O2●–, h+ are evolved in photocatalytic process. The experimental and characterization results provided evidenc that the excellent photocatalytic performance of Bi12O15Cl6/BiOCl heterojunction was facilitated by the construction of S-scheme charge transfer route with compact interface of 2D/2D morphology. The S-scheme Bi12O15Cl6/BiOCl heterojunction exhibited excellent visible light absorption ability, high photogenerated charge separation efficiency and maintained strong redox capacity for electrons and holes during CIP photodegradation. These findings provide a potential strategy for designing S-scheme heterojunction-based bismuth-rich bismuth oxyhalide photocatalyst to eliminate antibiotic residues.

Integrated composite wall with geopolymer permanent insulation formwork: Interface bonding behavior and mechanism

Traditional external insulation engineering and formwork engineering in buildings are unable to meet the development needs of the construction industry under the current situation due to their complex construction processes, high environmental pollution, and insulation layers is prone to fire, peeling, and other diseases. Therefore, improving the technology of building external insulation engineering and formwork engineering scientifically and economically has become an urgent practical problem to be solved. This study developed an integrated composite wall with geopolymer insulation formwork based on alkali activation technology. The interface bonding performance between alkali-activated mortar (AAM) and building insulation materials (BIM), as well as between AAM and the post-cast normal concrete (NC) were examined by push-out test and single shear test, respectively. Among them, BIM includesd alkali-activated insulation materials (AAI) and traditional extruded polystyrene foam (XPS). Studied the enhancement effect and mechanism of interface treatment methods on two types of interfaces. The simplified models were proposed for the shear strength of AAM-NC interfaces with grooved treatment and crushed stone studs. The results showed that the interfacial bond strength of AAM-AAI was better than that of AAM-XPS, which was due to the more compact interface transition zone of AAM-AAI. The grooved treatment had a positive improvement effect on the shear strength of AAM-AAI and AAM-NC interfaces, increasing by 16.59%∼167.32% and 21.03%∼42.06%, respectively. Adding crushed stone studs and installing connectors can improve the bonding performance of AAM-NC interface by 19.63%∼42.99%. In addition, the proposed simplified models have high consistency between the predicted results and test results, which can provide good reference value for engineering design.

Co3 O4 Supported on β-Mo2 C with Different Interfaces for Electrocatalytic Oxygen Evolution Reaction.

Interface engineering is an effective strategy for improving the activity of catalysts in electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Herein, Co3 O4 supported on β-Mo2 C with different interfaces were investigated for electrocatalytic OER. The morphological diversity of β-Mo2 C supports allowed different Co3 O4 -Mo2 C interactions. Various techniques characterized the composition and microstructure of the interface in the composites. Due to the strong interaction between Co3 O4 nanoparticles and β-Mo2 C nanobelts with opposing surface potentials, compact interface was observed between Co3 O4 active species and β-Mo2 C nanobelt support. The compact interface enhanced the conductivity of the material and also regulated the interfacial electron redistribution of Mo and Co atoms, promoting the charge transfer process during OER. In addition, the surface loading of Co3 O4 can effectively improve the hydrophilicity of the surface. β-Mo2 C has the capability in dissociating H2 O molecules. Thus, an example has been carefully demonstrated for interface engineering in electrocatalytic OER.