Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework Research Articles

Metal organic framework derived heteroatom doped porous carbon nanocubes enable efficient charge storage in a lithium-ion capacitor

Lithium-ion capacitors (LICs) are regarded as one of the promising technologies towards realizing energy & power dense energy storage systems. However, their energy densities at higher power densities are still limited due to the discrepancy between electrode kinetics of capacitor-like cathode and battery-like anode. Developing carbon materials with well-defined structures, porosity to match the chemical kinetics between electrodes are the major challenges to overcome. In the present work, we have devised a strategy to fabricate S, N dual-doped porous carbon nanocubes (S, N-PCNs) using zeolitic imidazole framework (ZIF)-8 precursors, and employed the PCNs as anode material in LICs. With its well-defined structure, hierarchical porous nature, and abundant heteroatom presence (1.9 % S, 16.2 % N), the pre-lithiated S, N-PCNs based anode has offered a greatly improved reversible storage capacity of ∼930 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 along with an impressive rate capability and cycling life. When S, N-PCNs anode is paired with activated carbon cathode, the 4 V dual-carbon LIC yields an energy density as high as 120.24 Wh kg−1 and 10.2 kW kg−1 of power density with a good cycle stability of 90.6 % after 5000 charge-discharge cycles. This work would open new scopes of exploring metal-organic framework derived heteroatom-doped porous carbons to make metal-ion capacitors more efficient.

Composition-optimized NiGa-LDH on MOF-derived and cobalt-nanoparticles-embedded carbon flakes for enhanced potassium-ion storage

Layered double hydroxides (LDHs), renowned for their distinct nanostructures, efficient ion channels, and high specific capacitance, are promising electrode materials for supercapacitors (SCs). However, commercial applications remain limited due to constraints in the rate capabilities and cycling. The synergistic effects of the composites can be leveraged by pairing LDHs with carbon materials to enhance the conductivity for better SC characteristics. Herein, flaky Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework(ZIF)-67 is deposited on carbon cloth and calcined to produce the MOF-derived composite of carbon nanosheet-embedded nano-cobalt particles (CPEC) on the surface of the carbon cloth. Afterward, NiGa-LDH with a controllable Ni to Ga ratio is synthesized on the CPEC to form a flower-like hierarchical nanostructure NiGa-LDH/CPEC@CC. Co nanoparticles act as nucleation sites for cohesive formation within the carbon cloth framework. Ni2Ga1-LDH/CPEC@CC has the best properties, such as a specific capacitance of 729.6F g−1 at 1 mA cm−2 and 97.3 % capacitance retention at 2 mA cm−2. The asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC) consisting of Ni2Ga1-LDH/CPEC@CC//AC has an excellent energy density of 83.96 Wh kg−1 with a power density of 80 W kg−1. Density-functional theory (DFT) calculations of Ni2Ga1-LDH/CPEC@CC affirm a potassium ion adsorption energy of −2.127 eV and density of state (DOS) near the Fermi level. The study imparts theoretical and technical knowledge about the design of complex nanostructures from MOF precursors.

Electrophoretic deposition of novel antibacterial and biocompatible polydopamine and ZIF-8 hybrid composite coating on anodized Ti-6Al-4V alloy with silane primary substrate

Production of biocompatible and corrosion resistance dental implant is a requirement in the modern dental science. In this work, the Ti-6Al-4V was used alloy for the dental implant application that has investigated to make it more corrosion resistive and antibacterial with electrophoretic deposition of silane precursor solution that made of acidic solution of tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) and methyl three ethoxy silane (MTES). The optimized silane coating has been achieved with 30 V, 30 min and at 100 °C ramped annealing by comparison of Taffel analysis and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Also, a new nanocomposite including polydopamine (PDA) and zeolite imidazole frame work composed from Zn (NO3)2 .6H2O and 2-methylimidazole (ZIF-8) that name PDA@ZIF-8 has been used as biocompatible and corrosion resistance amplifier to the precursor solution and used in the multilayer deposition process. The morphology analysis including atomic force microscopy (AFM) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) imaging and the obtained parameters show that coating has appropriate roughness that could increase the bounding of implant. A good adhesion strength has been determined for the two-layers silane coating with PDA@ZIF-8 according to the pull- off test. On the other hand, the antibacterial analysis indicate that the coating is an effective material for S. mutans and E. coli reduction that is another criterion for the dental implant materials. The results was introduced the coated Ti-6Al-4V could be used as corrosion resistive and antibacterial dental implant material.

Pine sawdust immobilized zeolitic imidazolate framework-67 derived magnetic composites: An efficient and recycable adsorbent for norfloxacin removal

Pine sawdust immobilized zeolitic imidazolate framework-67 derived magnetic composites: An efficient and recycable adsorbent for norfloxacin removal

Revolutionizing acridine synthesis: novel core-shell magnetic nanoparticles and Co-Zn zeolitic imidazolate framework with 1-aza-18-crown-6-ether-Ni catalysts

Nanoparticles have emerged as a critical catalyst substrate due to their exceptional features, such as catalytic efficiency, high stability, and easy recovery. In our research, we have developed an innovative and environmentally friendly magnetic mesoporous nanocatalyst. Using the co-precipitation method, we produced magnetic nanoparticles (Fe3O4) and coated them with Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) to enhance their surface area and chemical stability. The resulting substrate was functionalized with 1-aza-18-crown-6-ether and nickel metal. Our prepared catalyst has been rigorously evaluated using advanced techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), Brunauer-Emmet-Teller (BET), vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM), scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDS), inductively coupled plasma (ICP), elemental mapping analysis (EMA), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). By synthesizing acridine derivatives, we have demonstrated the exceptional efficiency of our catalyst in organic compound synthesis. Through optimization, we have established the ideal parameters for catalytic processes, including catalyst amount, temperature, time, and ultrasonic use. Our catalyst has been proven to exhibit remarkable physical and chemical properties, such as porosity, temperature resistance, and recyclability. Notably, our heterogeneous nanocatalyst has shown outstanding performance and can be recycled six times without any loss in efficiency, affirming its potential in acridine.

Functional metal-organic frameworks derived electrode materials for electrochemical energy storage: a review.

Pristine metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are built through self-assembly of electron rich organic linkers and electron deficient metal nodes via coordinate bond. Due to the unique properties of MOFs like highly tunable frameworks, huge specific surface areas, flexible chemical composition, flexible structures and a large volume of pores, they are being used to design the electrode materials for electrochemical energy storage devices. As per the literature, MOFs (including manganese, nickel, copper, and cobalt-based zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs), University of Oslo (UiO) MOFs, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) MOFs and isoreticular MOFs (IRMOFs)) have attracted much attention in the field of supercapacitors (SCs)/batteries. According to their dimensionality such as 1D, 2D and 3D, pristine MOFs are mainly used as SC materials. Highly porous materials and their composites are capable for intercalation of metal ions (Na+/Li+). Moreover, the supramolecular features (π⋯π, C-H⋯π, hydrogen bond interactions) of redox stable MOFs provide better insight for electrochemical stability. So, this review provides an in-depth analysis of pure MOFs and MOF derived composites (MOF composites and MOF derived porous carbon) as electrode materials and also discusses their metal ion charge storage mechanism. Finally, we provide our perspectives on the current issues and future opportunities for supercapacitor materials.

Macrophage-T cell hybrid membrane-camouflaged biomimetic nanoparticles ameliorate autoimmune myocarditis via suppressing macrophage pyroptosis by target gene silencing

Abstract Background Current management of myocarditis mainly relies on conventional approaches and immunosuppressive therapies. However, these strategies often yield limited efficacy. Our previous research revealed the pivotal role of macrophage pyroptosis in myocarditis pathogenesis. Therefore, targeted intervention to inhibit macrophage pyroptosis may provide new insights into myocarditis treatment. Purpose We previously identified interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF1) as the key modulator of macrophage pyroptosis in myocarditis. In this study, we synthesized a nano-delivery platform consisting of a macrophage-T cell hybrid membrane-coated zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF-8) encapsulating IRF1-small interfering RNA (siRNA@ZIF@HM). We aimed to evaluate its targeting capability and therapeutic efficacy for macrophage pyroptosis in myocarditis. Methods The fabrication of siRNA@ZIF@HM was validated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic light scattering (DLS). Cellular uptake, cytotoxicity, endolysosome escape, IRF1 silencing, and anti-pyroptotic effect were assessed using mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages and the mouse macrophage cell line J774A.1 and RAW264.7. An experimental autoimmune myocarditis (EAM) mouse model was induced in Balb/c mice for in vivo investigations. Pharmacokinetics and targeting capability were determined with ex vivo fluorescence imaging and immunofluorescence staining. Subsequently, mice were randomly allocated into control, EAM + siRNA, EAM + siRNA@ZIF, and EAM + siRNA@ZIF@HM groups to assess the therapeutic efficacy. Additionally, the biodistribution and biosafety of siRNA@ZIF@HM were also evaluated. Results TEM, DLS, and element mapping confirmed the successful fabrication of siRNA@ZIF@HM, with a diameter of approximately 130 nm. The nanoparticle exhibited pH responsiveness and membrane markers of macrophage and T lymphocytes (Figure 1). It demonstrated high targeting specificity for pro-inflammatory macrophages and myocarditis. Immunofluorescence microscopy revealed successful endolysosome escape of IRF1-siRNA in macrophages. Consequently, the nanoparticle significantly silenced IRF1 protein expression and suppressed macrophage pyroptosis both in vivo and in vitro, resulting in the amelioration of autoimmune myocarditis (Figure 2). Furthermore, the nanoparticle showed good biocompatibility with no significant changes observed in other organs. Conclusions The pH-responsive, macrophage-T cell hybrid membrane-coated biomimetic nanoparticle demonstrates promising capability for targeted siRNA delivery to myocardial inflammation sites, particularly pro-inflammatory macrophages. Additionally, targeting IRF1-mediated macrophage pyroptosis represents a potential therapeutic strategy for myocarditis treatment.Figure 1Figure 2

Synergistic Interaction of Strongly Polar Zinc Selenide and Highly Conductive Carbon Nanoframeworks Accelerates Redox Kinetics of Polysulfides.

Lithium-sulfur batteries (LSBs) have become strong competitors in secondary battery systems because of their superior theoretical capacity and energy density. However, due to the serious shuttle effect of soluble long-chain lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) and the slow solid-solid reaction kinetics, LSBs face some specific challenges, such as a short cycle life and low rate performance. The introduction of selenide/carbon composites derived from zeolite imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) into separator coatings is a direct and effective solution to the aforementioned problems. Here, a zinc selenide/carbon catalyst material (ZnSe@C) was constructed and employed to modify commercial polypropylene (PP) separators to accelerate the conversion of intermediates. The highly polar ZnSe effectively fixes the active material on the cathode side by transferring electrons between elements with LiPSs and improves the utilization rate of sulfur. Concurrently, the highly conductive carbon nanoskeleton generated following the pyrolysis of ZIF-8 ensures the rapid transfer of charges during the catalytic reaction. The prepared ZnSe@C has a large specific surface area (250.07 m2 g-1) and mesoporous ratio (78.03%), which not only enhances adsorption and catalysis but also promotes the penetration of the electrolyte and the transport of Li+. Based on this, ZnSe@C/PP separator cells exhibit a low average capacity decay rate of 0.051% per cycle after 500 cycles at 1 C.

Enhancing Vanadium Redox Flow Battery Performance with ZIF-67-Derived Cobalt-Based Electrode Materials

Vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) have emerged as a promising energy storage solution for stabilizing power grids integrated with renewable energy sources. In this study, we synthesized and evaluated a series of zeolitic imidazolate framework-67 (ZIF-67) derivatives as electrode materials for VRFBs, aiming to enhance electrochemical performance. Four materials—Co/NC-700, Co/NC-800, Co3O4-350, and Co3O4-450—were prepared through thermal decomposition under different conditions and coated onto graphite felt (GF) electrodes. X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analyses confirmed the structural integrity and distribution of the active materials. Electrochemical evaluations revealed that electrodes with ZIF-67-derived coatings exhibited significantly lower charge transfer resistance (Rct) and higher energy efficiency (EE) compared to uncoated GF electrodes. Co/NC-800//GF delivered the highest energy efficiency and discharge capacity among the tested configurations, maintaining stable performance over 100 charge–discharge cycles. These results indicate that Co/NC-800 holds great potential for use in VRFBs due to its superior electrochemical activity, stability, and scalability.

Novel metal–organic framework biosensing platform for detection of COVID-19 RNA

The latest pandemic resulting from the novel SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus has significantly affected public health, the worldwide economy, and social life. Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are currently being implemented in biosensors for rapid and accurate detection of viruses thanks to their exceptional properties. This research aims to develop a Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework-8 (ZIF-8) based fluorescent biosensor for facile and rapid COVID-19 RNA sequence detection. ZIF-8 was characterized using several tests, such as FT-IR, TGA, and PXRD, to examine the MOF’s crystalline structure and thermal stability. The results demonstrated high crystallinity and thermal stability up to a temperature of 550 °C. The experimental study showed that ZIF-8 is an excellent fluorescence quencher, with 78.39% quenching efficiency. Analyzing the adsorption mechanism of probe DNA into ZIF-8 revealed that they can form electrostatic and π–π stacking interactions, forming a P-DNA@ZIF-8 complex and that PET is more dominant than FRET in the quenching mechanism. This ZIF-8 biosensing platform showed high sensitivity towards COVID-19 RNA with an ultra-low limit of detection of 6.24 pM, a rapid detection time of 8 min, and high selectivity to COVID-19 RNA. Indeed, ZIF-8 experienced much lower fluorescence recovery when tested on two mismatched RNAs. The experimental results show the potential use of ZIF-8 as a novel biosensor for a rapid and sensitive COVID-19 diagnosis.

Tailoring Cationic Cobalt Vacancies in Molybdenum-Cobalt Selenide Derived from POM@ZIF-67 for Enhanced Electrocatalysis in Lithium-Oxygen Batteries.

Slow reaction kinetics during redox reactions limits the utilization of the high theoretical energy density of lithium-oxygen batteries (LOBs). Vacancy engineering, a potential strategy for modulating active sites, is critical in the development of high performance catalysts. This study investigates cobalt vacancies in Mo-CoSe2 nanoparticles created by selenization of phosphomolybdic acid (POM) embedded into zeolitic imidazolate framework-67 (ZIF-67). The nanomaterial exhibits an outstanding electrochemical performance, characterized by high specific capacitance and excellent cycle durability. The LOBs with cobalt vacancies in the Mo-CoSe2 electrode material exhibit a discharge capacity of 21 836 mAh g-1 at a current density of 100 mA g-1 and exhibit stable cycling performance over 194 cycles at 300 mA g-1. Additionally, density functional theory (DFT) calculations suggest that the presence of cobalt vacancies increases the distance between the surface selenium atoms and the subsurface cobalt atoms. In addition, cobalt vacancies modify the electronic structure of the d-orbitals, lowering the energy barriers of the reaction and accelerating the reaction kinetics by improving the adsorption of the reactants. The research introduces a strategy for the rational design of efficient cathode materials in LOBs.

Ionic Liquid-Assisted Synthesis of Higher Loaded Ni/Fe Dual-Atom Catalysts in N, F, B Codoped Carbon Matrix for Accelerated Sulfur Reduction Reaction.

In response to mitigating the severe shuttle effect within lithium-sulfur batteries, single-atom catalysts have emerged as one of the most effective solutions. Here, N, F, B codoped porous hollow carbon nanocages (NFB-NiFe@NC) with high Ni and Fe doping are rationally designed and synthesized using ionic liquids (ILs) as dopants. The introduction of ILs inhibits the growth of zeolitic imidazolate framework-8 (ZIF8), resulting in NFB-ZIF8 precursors with smaller particle sizes, enabling higher loading dual-atom catalysts. Meanwhile, the abundant heteroatoms increase the reactive sites and alter the carbon matrix's nonpolar intrinsic properties, thus enhancing the chemisorption of polysulfides. The synergistic interaction of the heteroatoms with Ni and Fe dual-atoms ultimately promotes the catalytic conversion kinetics of polysulfides. As a result of these beneficial properties, the cells prepared using the NFB-NiFe@NC modified separator exhibit significantly improved performance, including a high initial capacity of 1448 mAh g-1 at 0.2 C. Even at a high S-loading of 7.6 mg cm-2, the ideal area capacity of 8.38 mAh cm-2 can still be maintained at 0.1 C. New insights are provided here for designing highly loaded dual-atom catalysts for application in lithium-sulfur batteries.

Functional Three-Dimensional Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework with an Ordered Macroporous Structure for the Isolation of Extracellular Vesicles.

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) and their cargoes are increasingly being recognized as noninvasive diagnostic markers, necessitating the isolation of EVs from complex biological samples. Herein, a distearoyl phospholipid ethanolamine-functionalized single-crystal ordered macroporous three-dimensional zeolitic imidazolate framework (SOM-ZIF-8-DSPE) was developed, which combines the surface charge interaction of ZIF-8 with the synergistic effect of DSPE insertion into the phospholipid membrane of EVs to improve the isolating selectivity of EV capture. The materials have porous structures larger than 300 nm in diameter, providing enough space and active sites to trap EVs. Benefiting from this feature, the entire isolation process takes only 10 min and is well compatible with the subsequent analysis of RNA in EVs. Consequently, 10 upregulated miRNA of plasma EVs in the primary colorectal cancer (pCRC) patients is found over the healthy donors, and 6 upregulated miRNA of plasma EVs in the metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) patients over pCRC patients. These findings suggest that the isolation of EV-based SOM-ZIF-8-DSPE is a promising strategy to identify biomarkers for disease diagnosis, such as miRNAs in plasma EVs for the early detection of CRC.

Automatic metabolism modulator for glycolytic intervention‐induced cascade cancer therapy

AbstractEffective intervention in glycolytic metabolism is a promising way to inhibit tumor malignant invasion. However, the inherent hypoxia environment and unitary regulating model subsequently compromise its therapeutic efficacy. Herein, a facile way to design an automatic metabolism modulator (auto‐MMOD) is developed by loading glucose oxidase (GOx) and DNA‐templated silver nanoclusters (DNA‐AgNCs) into a pH‐responsive zeolitic imidazolate frameworks‐8 (ZIF‐8) nanocarrier, which can activate a cascaded metal ion‐killing effect during GOx‐regulated glycolysis metabolism. When the acidic lysosome microenvironment induces ZIF‐8 decomposition, the released GOx can effectively consume glucose and generate H2O2, thus inhibiting Adenosine Triphosphate synthesis and accelerating tumor starvation. Moreover, the released Ag+ in response to H2O2 can disturb bioenergy metabolism to inhibit tumor proliferation, which further enhances the tumor‐killing effect in hypoxic microenvironments. This study achieves effective tumor suppression in vitro and in vivo by integrating ion therapy into glycolysis intervention, which establish a promising strategy for nano‐theranostics.

Molecular imprinting sensor based on zeolitic imidazolate framework derived Co, N-doped carbon loaded on reduced graphene oxide toward the determination of dopamine.

Anovel voltammetric sensor designed for dopamine(DA) detectionis presented utilizing a combination of zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-67) derived cobalt and nitrogen-doped carbon on reduced graphene oxide (Co-N-C/rGO). ZIF-67 cubic crystals were synthesized in situ and deposited onto the graphene oxide (GO) surface through room-temperature reactions. High-temperature calcination resulted in partially collapsed cubic and spherical carbon, while simultaneously reducing GO to rGO. A molecular imprinting resorcinol polymer (MIP) membrane was also in situ applied to the Co-N-C/rGO/glassy carbon electrode (GCE) via electropolymerization. Analyses using cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance, and pulse voltammetry reveal that the modified MIP/Co-N-C/rGO/GCE electrodes show improved electroconductivity and notable electrochemical reactivity towards dopamine. After optimizing detection parameters, the sensor demonstrates a wide linear detection range of 0.01-0.5 and 0.5-100μmol/L, with a limit of detection (LOD) of 3.33nmol/L (S/N = 3). Additionally, the sensor displays strong robustness, including excellent selectivity, significant resistance to interference, and long-term stability. It also shows satisfactory recovery in detecting spiked real samples.

Pea Pod–Derived Biochar–Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework Composite for the Photocatalytic Degradation of Two Organic Dyes Crystal Violet and Victoria Blue

ABSTRACTThe rapid increase of water pollution globally is a vital environmental concern that requires the immediate attention of researchers to find new innovative ways to remove unwanted environmental pollutants from our water sources. With the advances in the field of sustainable engineering, there is a high demand for the effective utilization of biomass resources for the removal of aqueous environmental contaminants. Biochar is carbon carbon‐enriched substance obtained by biomass pyrolysis; it is inexpensive and has received wide attention in the field of wastewater treatment. Herein, we describe the synthesis of pea pod (PO) biochar‐reinforced zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF‐8) nanocomposite (PO@ZIF‐8) through the in situ precipitation of ZIF‐8 onto the biochar surface. The crystal growth, morphology, chemical composition, and optical characteristics of fabricated PO@ZIF‐8 nanocomposite were scrutinized through PXRD, SEM, TEM, UV‐DRS, PL, and XPS analysis. The dodecahedral‐shaped PO@ZIF‐8 particles have an average size between 140 and 160 nm. The biochar‐reinforced ZIF‐8 nanocomposite showed significantly higher photocatalytic activity than the pure ZIF‐8 for the degradation of two commonly found organic dyes crystal violet (CV) and Victoria Blue (VB) in the presence of direct sunlight irradiation. The PO@ZIF‐8 nanocomposite showed the highest degradation efficiency of ~87% and ~80% within 50 min of irradiation time at a catalyst dosage of 20 mg for 30 ppm CV and VB dye solutions at pH 8. First‐order kinetics were obeyed during the photodegradation with 0.041 and 0.030 min−1 as the constant of degradation for the removal of CV and VB. The radical scavenger experiment and the photoluminescence analysis confirm the active participation of ·OH radical in the degradation of both dyes. LC–MS and TOC analysis was also performed to determine the degradation products and for evaluation of the degradation progress. Moreover, the synthesized PO@ZIF‐8 composite also exhibit good stability till the fourth cycle with high degradation efficiency thus making it a good choice of catalyst in the field of environmental decontamination.

ZnS-zeolitic imidazolate framework nanostructure anchored on Ni nanowires as a bifunctional electrocatalyst for high-efficiency overall water splitting

The design and construction of stable and inexpensive bifunctional catalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) present a challenge in electrocatalytic water splitting. In this study, we utilized zeolitic imidazolate frameworks-8 (ZIF-8) as the precursor to fabricate ZnS-ZIF-8 via facile sulfidation processes. The ZnS-ZIF-8 nanostructures were anchored on the surface of the nickel nanowire (denoted as Ni NWs@ ZnS-ZIF-8 nanocomposite) and their catalytic activity for HER, OER, and overall water splitting were studied. The prepared Ni NWs@ ZnS-ZIF-8 revealed a low overpotentials value of 90 and 260 mV at 10 mA cm−2 for HER and OER in 1.0 M KOH solution, respectively. The alkaline electrolyzer assembled by Ni NWs@ ZnS-ZIF-8 provides a low cell voltage of 1.61 V at 10 mA cm−2 current density to boost the overall water splitting and robust stability for 15 h. The superior electrocatalytic activity of Ni NWs@ ZnS-ZIF-8 is owing to the facile and effective electron transport of Ni NWs, accessible active sites of ZnS-ZIF-8, and as well as the synergistic effect of the nanocomposite structures. This finding presents a viable methodology for synthesizing a proficient noble-metal-free catalyst for energy conversion and storage.

A single-atom nanozyme-enabled strategy for rapid, visual, and real-time detection of polystyrene nanoplastics in water

Polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs) in water environment have become a critical issue to ecosystems and human health due to their small sizes, easier diffusion and higher hazard. It is an urgent need to develop an efficient, rapid, and on-site detection strategy for PSNPs. A single-atom nanozyme of zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF-FeSAN) was prepared using hemoglobin as template and Fe-source. ZIF-FeSAN possessed porous structure, a high surface area (994.91 m2/g), and maximumly exposed Fe atoms, resulting in a high peroxidase (POD)-like activity. ZIF-FeSAN exhibited excellent adsorption capability (83.46 mg/g, 10 min) for PSNPs via the electrostatic and π-π interactions. After adsorption of PSNPs, the active centers of Fe atom were shielded with a great decreasing of POD-like activity. Given the ‘on-off’ effect of POD-like activity, a ZIF-FeSAN colorimetric sensor was developed for PSNPs (20, 30, 50, 100, and 150 nm) detection. The limit of detection (LOD) was 0.212, 4.544, 7.624, 16.955, and 24.171 mg/L for 20, 30, 50, 100, and 150 nm, respectively. Meanwhile, a smartphone-assisted ZIF-FeSAN platform was designed to rapid, on-site, and visual detection of PSNPs, and the corresponding LODs were 0.851, 17.564, 34.554, 67.254, and 76.124 mg/L, respectively. The ZIF-FeSAN-based strategies have practical application in water samples due to high satisfactory recoveries (91.47–108.12 %) and good selectivity. This proof-of-concept study paves the way toward the on-site, rapid, and visual quantitative detection of PSNPs in water environment with avoiding the use of large and expensive instruments.

ZIF‐67/ZIF‐8 and its Derivatives for Lithium Sulfur Batteries

AbstractLithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs), renowned for their superior energy density and the plentiful availability of sulfur resources, are progressively emerging as the focal point of forthcoming energy storage technology. Nevertheless, they presently confront fundamental challenges including insulation of sulfur and its discharge product, the lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) shuttle phenomenon, and the growth of lithium dendrites. Zeolite imidazole framework materials (ZIFs), particularly ZIF‐8 and ZIF‐67, are significant members of the metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) family. Owing to their high porosity, exceptional adsorption capacity, high structural tunability, and straightforward synthesis process, these materials have demonstrated unique application potential in the field of LSBs. This review initially provides a comprehensive summary of the developmental status and challenges associated with LSBs. Subsequently, it delves into an in‐depth analysis of the distinctive properties and synthesis strategies of ZIFs, with a particular emphasis on ZIF‐8 and ZIF‐67, as well as their composites and derivatives. The review systematically categorizes innovative application examples of these materials in the design of cathode structures and optimization of separators in LSBs. It also presents a forward‐looking perspective and insights on the potential future trajectory of ZIF‐67 materials, informed by the latest research advancements in the field.

RuCo@C Hollow Nanoprisms Derived from ZIF-67 for Enhanced Hydrogen and Oxygen Evolution Reactions.

Zeolitic imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) are commonly used to create complex hollow structures for energy applications. This study presents a simple method to produce a novel hollow nanoprism Co@C hierarchical composite from ZIF-67 through high-temperature treatment at 800 °C. This composite serves as a platform for Ru nanoparticle deposition, forming RuCo@C hollow nanoprism (RuCo@C HNP). As an electrocatalyst in 1 M KOH, RuCo@C HNP exhibits excellent hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance, with a low overpotential of 32 mV to reach 10 mA cm-2, a Tafel slope of 39.67 mV dec-1, a high turnover frequency (TOF) of 3.83 s-1 at ƞ200, and stable performance over 50 h. It also achieves a low ƞ10 of 266 mV for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) with a Tafel slope of 45.22 mV dec-1. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that Ru doping in Ni/Co maintains a low water dissociation barrier, reduces the energy barrier for the OER rate-determining step, and creates active sites for H*, enhancing adsorption/desorption abilities. These results are attributed to the synergy between Co and Ru and the hollow prism structure's increased surface area. This method for synthesizing hollow structures using ZIF composites shows promise for applications in the energy sector.