Interface Modification Research Articles

Synergetic Interface and Bulk Defects Modification with Identical Organic Molecule for Efficient Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells.

Recent progress in inverted perovskite solar cells (IPSCs) mainly focused on NiOx modification and perovskite (PVK) regulation to enhance efficiency and stability. However, most works address only monofunctional modifications, and identical molecules with the ability to simultaneously optimize NiOx interface and perovskite bulk phase have been rarely reported. This work proposes a dual modification approach using 4-amino-3,5-dichlorobenzotrifluoride (DCTM) to optimize both NiOx upper interfaces and reduction of bulk defects in perovskite. Amino group in DCTM increases the Ni3+/Ni2+ ratio in NiOx, thereby increasing the conductivity and optimizing the energy alignment. Additionally, DCTM fills Pb2+ and I- vacancies in perovskite, which improves the vertical orientation of perovskite grains and subsequently reduces nonradiative recombination, thereby achieving the increased carrier lifetime. PVK modified by DCTM exhibits enhanced energy level alignment with the electron transport layer, while femtosecond transient absorption (TA) spectroscopy confirms that DCTM facilitates efficient carrier transport, leading to high-performance IPSCs. The optimized IPSCs achieve a maximum efficiency of 22.8% with a reduced hysteresis (0.7%). Moreover, the unencapsulated device preserves over 80% of its initial power conversion efficiency (PCE) after 1000 h stored in air at 30% relative humidity. This dual modification strategy of monomolecular offers a straightforward solution for interface optimization and provides new insights into selecting aniline-derived molecules for high-performance IPSCs.

Immobilization of 4-MBA & Cu2+ on Au nanoparticles modified screen-printed electrode for glyphosate detection.

This study introduces an innovative electrochemical biosensor, engineered through the functionalization screen-printed electrode (SPE) with a coordination complex comprised of 4-mercaptobenzoic acid (4-MBA) and copper ions (Cu2+), achieving precise quantitative determination of glyphosate. Electrodepositing gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) onto the electrode surface, forming a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) of 4-MBA via thiol-gold interactions, and immobilizing Cu2+ via coordination bonding with the monolayer, finalizing the electrochemical biosensor construction as Cu2+/4-MBA/AuNPs/SPE. The successful modification of the biosensor interface is confirmed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and electrochemical characterization. Through parameter optimization, critical metrics for the biosensor preparation process have been determined. Using square wave voltammetry (SWV), a linear relationship between the glyphosate concentration and the peak current inhibition ratio at the electrode surface is established. Additionally, the repeatability and anti-interference capabilities of the fabricated biosensors are evaluated. The experimental outcomes affirm the biosensor's capability for quantitative glyphosate detection across a 5-100nM range, boasting a 1.65nM limit of detection (LOD). Testing on tap water samples verifies a robust recovery rate for glyphosate residues, spanning 89.84%-107.48%. The proposed biosensor holds significant promise for glyphosate detection, offering substantial applicability and this study provides a valuable reference for the advancement of biosensors geared toward the quantitative assessment of organophosphate pesticides (OPs).

Tuning surface hydrophilicity of a BiVO4 photoanode through interface engineering for efficient PEC water splitting.

This study presents a novel approach to enhance photoelectrochemical (PEC) water oxidation by integrating cobalt phthalocyanine (CoPc) with bismuth vanadate (BVO) via a direct solvothermal method. The as-prepared BVO@CoPc photoanode demonstrated a photocurrent density of 4.0 mA cm-2 at 1.23 V vs. RHE, which is approximately 3.1 times greater than that of the unmodified BVO, and has superior stability. The incident photon-to-current conversion efficiency (IPCE) of the BVO@CoPc photoanode reaches an impressive value of 81%, accompanied by significant enhancements in charge injection efficiency. This excellent performance can be ascribed to the enhanced hydrophilicity with the BVO/CoPc interface engineering, which facilitates interfacial interaction between the electrode and electrolyte, accelerates photogenerated charge carrier transfer and separation. Furthermore, compared to the immersion and drop-casting methods, the BVO@CoPc-S composite photoanode prepared via the solvothermal method exhibits a significant improvement in interfacial contact and surface hydrophilicity. These findings highlight the potential of the strategy based on interfacial hydrophilicity modification to overcome key limitations in PEC water splitting, providing a pathway to more efficient and durable photoanode design.

Interface Modification by Ga2O3 Atomic Layers within Er-Doped GeO2 Nanofilms for Enhanced Electroluminescence and Operation Stability.

For silicon-based devices using dielectric oxides doped with rare earth ions, their electroluminescence (EL) performance relies on the sufficient carrier injection. In this work, the atomic Ga2O3 layers are inserted within the Er-doped GeO2 nanofilms fabricated by atomic layer deposition (ALD). Both Ga(CH3)3 and Ga(C2H5)3 could realize the ALD growth of Ga2O3 onto the as-deposited GeO2 nanofilm with unaffected deposition rates. The interfacial defects introduced by atomic Ga2O3 layers decrease the threshold voltage while increasing the tolerable injection current of the EL devices; the 1530 nm emissions from the 600 °C-annealed Ga2O3/GeO2:Er nanolaminate devices achieve the optical power density of 16.2 mW/cm2, with the excitation efficiency increased to 12.5%. Moreover, the interface modification by atomic Ga2O3 layers significantly prolongs the operation time of these prototype devices, reaching 5.21 × 104 s for the optimal one. High-temperature annealing above 800 °C results in the decomposition of GeO2 and leaves reticular porous nanofilms. The conduction mode within these amorphous Ga2O3/GeO2:Er nanolaminates conforms to the trap-assisted tunneling mechanism, with the depths of defect states lowered by the interfacial Ga2O3 layers. These Ga2O3/GeO2:Er nanolaminates with improved EL performance demonstrate new potential in the utilization of ALD GeO2 nanofilms in silicon-compatible optoelectronics.

Toward improved antifouling properties and monovalent anion selectivity of anion exchange membrane via interfacial polymerization modification

Toward improved antifouling properties and monovalent anion selectivity of anion exchange membrane via interfacial polymerization modification

Dual strategy of interface and absorber modifications via Ti3C2Tx MXene for high-performance self-powered CsPbCl3 UV photodetectors

Dual strategy of interface and absorber modifications via Ti3C2Tx MXene for high-performance self-powered CsPbCl3 UV photodetectors

Preparation, design and interfacial modification of sulfide solid electrolytes for all-solid-state lithium metal batteries

Preparation, design and interfacial modification of sulfide solid electrolytes for all-solid-state lithium metal batteries

Zincophilic MOF with N-functional groups for interfacial modification of stable aqueous zinc metal anodes

A two-dimensional zinc-based MOF (ZHPCA) was synthesized and employed as the interface modification layer of Zn anode, and the N-functional groups in ZHPCA can be used as binding sites for zinc ion deposition.

Fabrication of n-i-p perovskite solar cells based on strategy of buried interface modification

Normal (n-i-p) perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have received increasing attention due to their advantages such as high conversion efficiency and good stability. Tin dioxide is an ideal electron transport layer material for normal perovskite solar cells. Among various available electron transport layers, tin dioxide stands out because of its excellent stability, low density of defect states, and appropriate energy levels. The interface defects between tin dioxide and perovskite are the key factors restricting the improvement of the conversion efficiency in perovskite solar cells. Therefore, a method of fabricating normal perovskite solar cells based on the buried interface modification strategy is proposed in this work. By doping methylammonium bromide into tin dioxide to form a buried interface, the interface defects between tin dioxide and perovskite are reduced, the electron mobility of tin dioxide is enhanced, and the growth of high-quality perovskite materials is promoted. The conversion efficiency of the normal perovskite solar cells reaches 23.12%, providing an effective strategy for fabricating high-efficiency normal perovskite solar cells.

Enhanced charge carrier extraction and transport with interface modification for efficient tin-based perovskite solar cells

Interface modification improves charge carrier extraction in tin-based perovskite solar cells.

Research Advances in Interface Engineering of Solid‐State Lithium Batteries

ABSTRACTSolid‐state lithium batteries have attracted increasing attention due to their high ionic conductivity, potential high safety performance, and high energy density. However, their practical application is limited by a series of interface issues. In recent years, many efforts have been dedicated to solving these problems via interface engineering by providing feasible strategies for the optimization of lithiumion solid‐state battery interfaces. This paper reviews the recent developments of interface engineering in addressing interfacial issues. The existing interface problems are first systematically summarized, including poor contact, electrochemical instability, lithium dendrites, space‐charge layers, and element diffusion. Then, the corresponding interface characteristics and engineering strategies are thoroughly analyzed from the perspective of the cathode/electrolyte interface, the anode/electrolyte interface, and battery structure design. Finally, future research directions for the interface modification of solid‐state lithium batteries are discussed.

Enhancement on thermal management and mechanical properties of cellulose nanofiber films through synergistic filler construction and interface optimization

AbstractThis study is aimed at developing composite films with superior thermal management performance in an attempt to solve challenge rising from heat accumulation in modern high‐frequency broadband communication devices. To effectively address the interface thermal resistance (ITR) of graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) in the composites, cobalt nanoparticles were coated onto edge‐oxidized graphene to in‐situ form a hybrid filler (EGO@Co), which was then uniformly incorporated into the carboxymethyl cellulose nanofiber (c‐CNF) matrix. A vacuum‐assisted filtration was employed to fabricate EGO@Co/c‐CNF thermally conductive multi‐layered composite films. In‐situ growth of heterogeneous structure filler Co helped to extend the thermal paths and optimize the heat transfer networks. The incorporation of edge oxidation was found to facilitate the strong hydrogen bonding interactions between filler and matrix, constructing an efficient three‐dimensional (3D) thermal conduction network, significantly enhancing both heat flux and stress transfer efficiency. After hot‐pressed, the EGO@Co40/c‐CNF films exhibited an outstanding thermal conductivity (λǁ ~ 28.4 W m−1 K−1 and λ⊥ ~ 1.1 W m−1 K−1) in addition to a high tensile strength. The optimization on the thermal filler construction and interface modification have proved to significantly enhance the microstructure and properties of the composite films, which helps to pave the way for practical opportunities in the application of novel thermally conductive materials in the TMMs fields.Highlights Cobalt nanoparticles enhanced thermal conductivity of composites. EGO strengthened filler‐matrix hydrogen bonding. Vacuum‐assisted filtration produced multi‐layered composite films. EGO@Co/c‐CNF films displayed high thermal conductivity. Thermal filler optimization boosted mechanical and thermal properties.

Interface Enhancement and Tribological Properties of Cattle Manure-Derived Corn Stalk Fibers for Friction Materials: The Role of Silane Treatment Concentration

Corn stalk fibers extracted from cattle manure (CSFCM) represent a unique class of natural fibers that undergo biological pre-treatment during ruminant digestion. This study systematically investigates the optimization of CSFCM-reinforced friction materials through controlled silane treatment (2–10 wt.%). The biological pre-treatment through ruminant digestion creates distinctive fiber properties that influence subsequent chemical modification. Physical characterization revealed that optimized interface modification at 6 wt.% silane treatment (CSFCM-3) effectively enhanced the fiber–matrix compatibility while achieving a 34.2% reduction in water absorption and decreased apparent porosity from 9.03% to 7.85%. Tribological evaluation demonstrated superior performance stability, with CSFCM-3 maintaining friction coefficients of 0.35–0.45 across 100–350 °C and exhibiting enhanced thermal stability through a fade ratio of 14.48% and recovery ratio of 95%. The total wear rate showed significant improvement, reducing by 26.26% to 3.433 × 10−7 cm3 (N·m)−1 compared to untreated specimens. Microscopic analysis confirmed that the optimized silane modification promoted the formation of stable secondary plateaus and uniform wear patterns, contributing to enhanced tribological performance. This investigation establishes an effective approach for developing high-performance friction materials through precise control of silane treatment parameters. The findings demonstrate the potential for developing sustainable friction materials with enhanced performance characteristics, offering new pathways for eco-friendly material design that effectively utilizes agricultural waste resources.

High-Performance Flexible Strain Sensors: The Role of In-Situ Cross-Linking and Interface Engineering in Liquid Metal-Carbon Nanotube-PDMS Composites.

The increasing demand for high-performance strain sensors has driven the development of innovative composite systems. This study focused on enhancing the performance of composites by integrating liquid metal, carbon nanotubes, and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) in an innovative approach that involved advanced interface engineering, filler synergy, and in situ cross-linking of PDMS in solution. Surface modification of liquid metal with allyl disulfide and hydrogen-containing polydimethylsiloxane significantly improved its stability and dispersion within the polymer matrix. Through in situ cross-linking in solution and subsequent segment rearrangement after solvent evaporation, a continuous filler network was formed within the composite. The composites exhibited enhanced thermal stability, achieving a thermal conductivity of up to 2.13 W/(m·K) while simultaneously attaining a high electrical conductivity of 416 S/cm. The composite demonstrated excellent thermal management capabilities, alongside remarkable mechanical properties, including over 400% elongation at break and a low modulus of 0.587 MPa, even at high filler content. These attributes make the composite highly suitable for flexible strain sensor applications. Notably, the composite demonstrated outstanding strain sensing capabilities, effectively monitoring both human motion and handwriting. This work highlighted the critical roles of interface modification, filler interactions, and in situ cross-linking in achieving significant improvements in thermal, electrical, and sensing performance, thereby advancing the potential applications of flexible electronic materials.

Interface Issues of Layered Transition Metal Oxide Cathodes for Sodium-Ion Batteries: Current Status, Recent Advances, Strategies, and Prospects.

Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) hold significant promise in energy storage devices due to their low cost and abundant resources. Layered transition metal oxide cathodes (NaxTMO2, TM = Ni, Mn, Fe, etc.), owing to their high theoretical capacities and straightforward synthesis procedures, are emerging as the most promising cathode materials for SIBs. However, the practical application of the NaxTMO2 cathode is hindered by an unstable interface, causing rapid capacity decay. This work reviewed the critical factors affecting the interfacial stability and degradation mechanisms of NaxTMO2, including air sensitivity and the migration and dissolution of TM ions, which are compounded by the loss of lattice oxygen. Furthermore, the mainstream interface modification approaches for improving electrochemical performance are summarized, including element doping, surface engineering, electrolyte optimization, and so on. Finally, the future developmental directions of these layered NaxTMO2 cathodes are concluded. This review is meant to shed light on the design of superior cathodes for high-performance SIBs.

Metal Nanoclusters for Interface Engineering and Improved Photovoltaic Performance in Organic Solar Cells.

Copper nanoclusters (Cu NCs), synthesized by a one-pot synthesis method, were theoretically shown to exhibit a dipole moment and cause work function modification on a surface as observed from Kelvin probe measurement. Here, Cu NCs were used as an interfacial modifier in organic solar cells (OSCs). The effective engineering of the electron transporting layer/active layer interface using Cu NCs resulted in improved photovoltaic performance in fullerene and non-fullerene based OSCs. On insertion of Cu NCs, the best power conversion efficiency (PCE) obtained for the non-fullerene based system was 15.83% compared to 14.22% for the control device, while the PCE increased from 7.79% to 8.62% for the fullerene based system. The interface modification resulted in reduced recombination losses and charge accumulation at the interfaces. The improved performance in Cu NC interfaced devices is attributed to work function modification, enabling reduced energy barrier and enhanced charge collection.

Uncovering Required Molecular Properties for Interface Regulators and Modification Mechanisms for Zn Anode in Aqueous Batteries

Uncovering Required Molecular Properties for Interface Regulators and Modification Mechanisms for Zn Anode in Aqueous Batteries

MXenes in Perovskite Solar Cells: Emerging Applications and Performance Enhancements

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have emerged as promising candidates for next-generation photovoltaic technology due to their remarkable power-conversion efficiencies (PCEs). Since their introduction, the PCE of PSCs has advanced from 3.8% to over 26%. Nonetheless, challenges pertaining to stability and reliability continue to impede their commercial viability. Recent progress in interface engineering and materials science has underscored the potential of two-dimensional (2D) materials, particularly MXenes, in mitigating these challenges. MXenes represent a class of two-dimensional materials with significant potential for application in PSCs, attributed to their exceptional electrical conductivity, high carrier mobility, remarkable optical transparency, chemical stability, and tunable surface chemical properties. When employed as electron transport layers, MXenes enhance charge transfer and extraction efficiency, leading to substantial improvements in PCEs. Furthermore, their integration into hole transport layers and use as interfacial modifiers contribute to the mitigation of degradation pathways, thereby enhancing device longevity. The unique structural and electronic characteristics of MXenes facilitate their application as transparent electrodes, presenting opportunities for cost reduction and improved optical properties. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current advancements in MXene-based PSCs, emphasizing significant accomplishments and exploring future research directions aimed at enhancing the efficiency and stability of these devices.

Dual Interfacial Modifications by a Natural Organic Acid Enable High-Performance Perovskite Solar Cells with Lead Shielding.

Effective interfacial modification of the perovskite layer is a feasible approach to improve the efficiency and stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Herein, we introduce a dual interfacial modification approach utilizing a natural organic acid, citric acid (CA), to enhance both interfaces adjacent to the crucial perovskite layer within the PSC structure. First, a CA thin layer is deposited on the top of a SnO2 electron transport layer to mitigate the corrosive effects of alkaline impurities in SnO2 on the perovskite film and to control the crystal growth of the perovskite. Then, the perovskite film is post-treated with CA to adjust the surface condition and passivate the defects on the film surface; thus, the interface contact around perovskite is strengthened, thereby facilitating charge transfer at the interfaces. Besides, CA also provides an in situ suppression of lead leakage in case the perovskite film is destroyed, owing to the strong chelating interactions of carboxyl groups with Pb2+. The photovoltaic performance and stability of the final PSCs are significantly enhanced, with the power conversion efficiency (PCE) increasing from 21.02 to 24.20%. This optimization of the important interfaces adjacent to the perovskite layer through surface treatment with a natural organic acid offers a practical method for enhancing the performance and stability of environmentally friendly PSCs.

Atomic-Scale Interface Modification in Complex Oxide Heterojunctions for Near-Infrared Photodetection.

Photodetectors that detect near-infrared (NIR) light serve as important components in contemporary energy-efficient optoelectronic devices. However, detecting the low-energy photons of the NIR light has long been challenging since the ease of photoexcitation inevitably involves increasing the background current in the dark. Herein, we report the atomic-scale interface modification in SrRuO3/LaAlO3/Nb-doped SrTiO3 (SRO/LAO/Nb:STO) heterostructures for NIR photodetection. The interfacial band alignment by a polar monolayer LAO allows precise tuning of the Schottky barrier to achieve a specific energy band profile suitable for the NIR photodetection. The SRO/LAO/Nb:STO heterojunctions show a high photoresponsivity up to ∼1.1 mA/W under NIR light irradiation (λ = 850 nm), while keeping the pA-scale dark current. The increase in the responsivity by interface modification is evaluated at a maximum of 1371%. Based on the enhanced NIR photoresponsivity, as a proof of concept, we demonstrate the spatial imaging of NIR signals using a conceptual array of SRO/LAO/Nb:STO heterojunctions. In addition, the experimental-data-based simulation verifies that the array device can implement pulse-number-dependent plasticity, which is based on the characteristic persistent photoconductivity. This study suggests that atomic-scale interface modification is a facile and powerful method for optimizing the photoresponsive properties of complex-oxide-based heterojunctions.