Storage Performance Research Articles (Page 1)

Doping with phosphorus atoms can significantly improve the electronic structure of graphdiyne (GDY), resulting in outstanding performance in electrocatalysis, energy storage, and ion transport. The identification of phosphorus-doped graphdiyne (P-GDY) has not been thoroughly investigated experimentally or theoretically because of the variety of doping sites. The C1s X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and C1s near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectra as well as the geometries of seven typical P-GDY and phosphorus-doped graphdiyne oxides [P(O)-GDY] were simulated using density functional theory (DFT). Additionally, the O1s XPS and NEXAFS spectra of five molecules containing oxygen atoms were also simulated to provide a thorough analysis of the structure-spectrum relationships. The calculated results demonstrated that the NEXAFS spectra significantly depended on the local structure. Theoretical simulations of XPS spectra were in excellent agreement with the experimental results in terms of peak positions and shapes. Stated differently, the combination of XPS and NEXAFS spectra can be effective in identifying seven P-GDY and P(O)-GDY molecules. Not only do our research findings offer a trustworthy theoretical reference for differentiating P-doped graphdiynes, but they also provide further theoretical forecasts and directions for experimental synthesis, facilitating the resolution of the challenging issue of P-doped carbon-based material identification.

Antiferroelectric (AFE) ceramics with typical double polarization-electric field loops hold exceptional potential for high capacitance density capacitors. However, the inherent contradiction between polarization and breakdown strength limits the energy storage performance in AFE ceramics. Herein, the polarization and breakdown strength are improved simultaneously via optimizing the sandwich structure with alternate large polarization (Ag0.82Bi0.06)NbO3 layer and high breakdown strength (Ag0.70Bi0.10)NbO3 layer. A recoverable energy storage density Wrec of 16.8 J cm-3 with energy efficiency η of 81.3% is realized in (Ag0.70Bi0.10)NbO3/(Ag0.82Bi0.06)NbO3/(Ag0.70Bi0.10)NbO3 ceramic, attaining the peak value of AgNbO3-based AFE ceramics. Moreover, the sandwich-structured ceramic shows good stabilities with variations of less than 7.0% over a temperature range of 30-150°C, frequency range of 1-500Hz, and 105 cycling in Wrec, and a discharge energy density Wd of 6.2 J cm-3 along with a fast discharge time t0.9 of 120ns. This research provides an effective strategy for enhancing the energy storage performance of lead-free AFE ceramics, highlighting their potential for practical applications in pulse power systems.

Doping is a promising strategy to enhance the K+ storage performance of transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs), which are attractive conversion-type anodes for K-ion batteries (KIBs) due to their low cost and natural abundance. However, conventional doping approaches are often limited by low doping content or structural degradation at high doping levels, making it highly challenging to achieve efficient doping without compromising structural integrity. Herein, a local high-concentration doping strategy enabled by heterophase engineering is proposed to overcome this limitation. The boundaries in the heterophase of CoSe2/ZnSe act as built-in highways for dopant diffusion and doping formation, achieving a remarkably high P doping content of 34 at.%. Such local high-concentration P doping enhances the internal electric field and weakens bonding strength, thereby accelerating K+ storage kinetics. Benefiting from these effects, the optimized P-C/Z@C electrode delivers outstanding electrochemical performance, including 166 mAh g-1 at 10.0 A g-1 and 180 mAh g-1 at 5.0 A g-1 after 1400 cycles. Moreover, a full battery paired with a potassium Prussian blue cathode achieves a high energy density of 218 Wh kg-1, highlighting its practical feasibility. This work provides a new pathway for enhancing doping efficiency in TMCs and offers valuable insights for designing high-performance anodes for KIBs.

Enhancement of thermal stability of energy storage performances and electrocaloric effect in lead-free Ba0.65Sr0.35TiO3 ceramic

In high-voltage thin film capacitor applications, linear polymers have attracted considerable interest owing to their superior insulating properties. In this study, poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) was chosen as the outer layers of a three-layer architecture because of its favorable thermal and chemical stability and reliable dielectric performance. The intermediate dielectric layer comprises a polymer blend of poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and PMMA, designed to exploit PVDF's strong polarization to tune the composite film's dielectric response. We investigated how tuning the inner layer's dielectric properties influences the internal electric-field distribution and interfacial polarization characteristics of the three-layer structure, and we identified the optimal structural configuration for maximizing energy storage performance. Experimental results demonstrate that increasing the PVDF content in the inner layer markedly enhances interfacial polarization within the three-layer film. Concomitantly, the local electric field intensity in the middle layer decreases, whereas the field in the outer PMMA layers correspondingly increases, effectively redistributing the electric field. By optimizing the inner-layer dielectric properties, a three-layer film containing 30 wt % PVDF in the central layer achieved a discharge energy density of 15.3 J/cm3 under an applied field of 680 kV/mm.

Revolutionizing energy storage demands innovative strategies that transcend the conven­ti­onal boundaries of electrode design. Here, we unveil a powerful approach that harnesses the synergistic interplay between dielectric and conductive nanophases to unlock unprecedented charge storage performance in polymeric supercapacitors. By individually synthesizing copper oxide (CuO) and barium titanate (BaTiO3) nanoparticles and strategically embedding them into a polyaniline (PANI) matrix, we engineered two finely tuned ternary nano­composites: PCB5 (10 wt.% CuO, 5 wt.% BaTiO3) and PCB10 (5 wt.% CuO, 10 wt.% BaTiO3). Advanced structural and spectroscopic analyses (X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Ramanspectroscopy) confirmed the successful integration of the nanophases, while dielectric studies revealed distinct variations in dielectric constant and interfacial polarization behaviour depending on nanoparticle ratios. Among the composites, PCB5 showed the most balanced electrochemical performance, with a specific capacitance of 271.67 F g-¹, outperforming pristine PANI and its BaTiO3-rich counterpart. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy further confirmed the low series and charge-transfer resistances of the PCB5 composite sample, reflecting its efficient ion/electron transport pathways. Furthermore, BET analysis showed an increased surface area (31.37 m² g-¹) compared to pristine PANI (24.08 m² g-¹), providing additional electroactive interfaces for charge accumulation. These findings establish, for the first time, a dielectric-conductive co-engineering paradigm in PANI nanocomposites, where carefully optimized filler ratios act as a dual-function booster of both dielectric constant and electrochemical kinetics. This extraordinary synergy paves the way for transformative next-generation high-energy, high-power supercapacitors with tunable multifunctionality.

With increasing research on hydrogen storage for sustainable energy systems, numerous studies have explored the technological advancements and socio-economic opportunities of this critical field. This thesis examines the key themes and challenges in the literature on hydrogen storage for sustainable energy systems, providing insights into technological advancements and socio-economic opportunities while highlighting potential areas for future research. A systematic literature review was conducted on peer-reviewed articles published between 2020 and 2024 to capture the latest developments. A total of 38 studies were analysed, focusing on hydrogen storage's technological, environmental, and socio-economic dimensions. The findings are organized into four thematic clusters: (1) skills, capabilities, and technological advancements, emphasizing storage material optimization and infrastructure development; (2) hydrogen storage and energy performance, which address efficiency improvements and technical challenges; (3) policy, social, and cultural issues, exploring barriers such as public acceptance and regulatory frameworks; and (4) environmental and management issues, which assess the economic and lifecycle impacts of hydrogen storage technologies. Intersections among these themes are identified, such as the connection between safety advancements and public trust, as well as material innovations reducing costs and improving market adoption. Result suggest that further research is needed in areas such as large-scale practical applications of hydrogen storage, policy integration for developing countries, and the role of hydrogen storage in achieving carbon neutrality. The research found that Hydrogen storage systems study, has Limited real-world testing of theoretical models poses a challenge to practical implementation.

Hollow selenium/ferromanganese selenide nanospheres decorated with 3D porous graphene aerogel for enhanced lithium storage performance

High-entropy MXenes (HE-MXenes) represent a highly promising frontier in 2D materials, but their safe, fluorine-free synthesis remains a critical challenge. Recently, Lewis acidic molten salt etching has been emerged as a promising alternative due to its high operational safety and precise regulation of MXene surface terminal groups. This work reports a strategy utilizing anhydrous CuCl2 to etch the high-entropy MAX (HE-MAX)phase, (TiVNbMoW)3AlC2. The investigation reveals that the reaction is hindered by the formation of a previously unreported amorphous intermediate structure (M3C2-ClCux). However, this intermediate phase, trapped at a specific etchant concentration, degrades the material's electrochemical performance. By optimizing the etchant ratio, the adverse influence of the M3C2-ClCux on the electrochemical performance is effectively mitigated, enabling the successful synthesis of an accordion-like HE-MXene. The electrochemical energy storage performance of this HE-MXene is systematically evaluated in acidic and alkaline electrolytes. More importantly, this study not only presents a viable F-free synthetic route for HE-MXene but also reveals a novel reaction mechanism that is crucial for future process optimization and rational material design.

Underground pumped hydro storage (UPHS) in solution-mined salt caverns offers a promising approach to address the intermittency of renewable energy in flat geological regions such as Southern Ontario, Canada. This work presents the first fully coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical (THM) numerical model of a two-cavern UPHS system in Southern Ontario, providing a foundational assessment of long-term cavern stability and brine leakage behavior under cyclic operation. The model captures the key interactions among deformation, leakage, and temperature effects governing cavern stability, evaluating cyclic brine injection–withdrawal at operating temperatures of 10 °C, 15 °C, and 20 °C over a five-year period. Results show that plastic deformation is constrained to localized zones at cavern–shale interfaces, with negligible risk of tensile failure. Creep deformation accelerates with temperature, yielding maximum strains of 2.6–3.2% and cumulative cavern closure of 1.8–2.6%, all within engineering safety thresholds. Leakage predominantly migrates through limestone interlayers, while shale contributes only local discharge pathways. Elevated temperature enhances leakage due to reduced brine viscosity, but cumulative volumes remain very low, confirming the sealing capacity of bedded salt. Overall, lower operating temperatures minimize both convergence and leakage, ensuring greater stability margins, indicating that UPHS operation should preferentially adopt lower brine temperatures to balance storage efficiency with long-term cavern stability. These findings highlight the feasibility of UPHS in Ontario’s salt formations and provide design guidance for balancing storage performance with geomechanical safety.

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are novel porous crystalline materials formed through the self-assembly of metal ions and organic ligands. They have various advantages, including tunable chemical and electronic structures, high porosity, and large specific surface areas. Owing to their unique structural and physicochemical properties, MOFs have been widely applied in the fields of catalysis, supercapacitors, sensors, and drug recognition/delivery. However, the intrinsic poor stability and low electrical conductivity of conventional MOFs severely hinder their practical implementation. Graphdiyne (GDY), a unique carbon allotrope, features a new structure composed of both sp2- and sp-hybridized carbon atoms. Its distinct chemical and electronic configuration endow it with exceptional properties such as natural bandgap, uniform in-plane cavities, and excellent electronic conductivity. Integrating MOFs with GDY can effectively overcome the intrinsic limitations of MOFs and expand their potential applications. As emerging hybrid materials, MOF/GDY composites and their derivatives have attracted increasing attention in recent years. This article reviews recent advances in the synthesis strategies of MOF/GDY composites and their derivatives, along with their performance and applications in catalysis, energy storage, and biological sensors. It also discusses the future opportunities and challenges faced in the development of these promising composite materials, aiming to inspire interest and provide scientific guidance.

Pepper (Capsicum frutescens L.) is a globally important vegetable crop whose fruit glossiness serves as a key quality trait influencing consumer preference and market value. This review summarizes the measurement methods, influencing factors, and molecular regulatory mechanisms of pepper fruit surface glossiness, as well as the correlation between post-harvest changes in carotenoid content and fruit surface glossiness, aiming to provide references for the molecular breeding of high-gloss pepper cultivars. Pepper fruit glossiness is primarily determined by cuticle structure and composition. The content and arrangement of cuticular crystals significantly affect the specular reflection and diffuse reflection on the fruit surface. The ordered arrangement of long-chain alkanes enhances the anisotropy of specular highlights, reduces the contrast of diffuse reflection, and forms a high-gloss surface. In contrast, the imbalance of wax components or disordered accumulation of crystals leads to increased light scattering, resulting in a matte phenotype. Furthermore, carotenoid content strongly correlates with L*, a*, and b*, critically influencing fruit color intensity and hue. Currently, there are still several issues in the research on pepper glossiness, including the lack of standardized measurement methods, unclear gene regulatory networks, and unknown pathways related to post-harvest gloss maintenance and environmental responses. In the future, we should promote the combination of multiple technologies to establish unified measurement standards; integrate multi-omics to identify key genes; develop targeted preservation technologies based on the law of fruit gloss degradation; and breed pepper cultivars with high glossiness and good storage performance.

Protein-based biomaterials offer sustainable and biocompatible alternatives to traditional ionic conductors, essential for advancing green energy storage and bioelectronic applications. In this work, a robust, intrinsically self-assembling repeat protein scaffold to enhance ionic conductivity through the selective incorporation of glutamic acids is engineered. These mutations increase the number of available protonation sites and promote the formation of well-defined charge pathways. The self-assembly properties of the system enable the propagation of molecular-level modifications to the macroscopic scale, yielding self-standing protein films with significantly improved ionic conductivity. Specifically, engineered protein-based films exhibit an order of magnitude higher conductivity than their unmodified counterparts, with a further ten-fold enhancement through controlled addition of salt ions. Mechanistic analysis shows that the conductivity enhancement originates from the intertwined contributions of proton transport, hydration, and ion diffusion, all promoted by engineered charged residues. Finally, films of the best-performing variant are integrated, as both separator and electrolyte, into a supercapacitor device with competitive energy storage performance. These findings highlight the potential of rational protein design to create biocompatible, sustainable, and efficient ionic conductors with the stability and processability required to be successfully integrated into the next generation of energy storage and bioelectronic devices.

Biochar-infused cellulose foams with PEG-based phase change materials for enhanced thermal energy storage and photothermal performance.

Nickel-catalyzed synthesis of coffee grounds-derived carbon and its lithium/sodium storage performance

Unlocking higher performance of dual-ion storage via fluorene substitution in bipolar conjugated polymers featuring dual acceptors

On-site measurements and study on cooling demand characteristics and operational performance of ice storage cooling systems in large-scale sports stadium

Annual performance of a calcium looping thermochemical energy storage with sCO2 Brayton cycle in a solar power tower

Enhancement of the energy storage and electrocaloric effect performances in 0.4 BCZT–0.6 BSTSn medium-entropy ceramic prepared by sol-gel method

Hybrid PCM concentration on energy storage and thermal performance of solar thermal air heater featured with carbon nanotube and copper oxide nanofluid