Correction: Energy Storage Applications of CdMoO4 Microspheres

Developing efficient multifunctional materials for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and supercapacitors has become essential for storing and converting energy. Taking advantage of the structural flexibility of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), bifunctional electrochemical nanomaterial LaFeCoOOH with high performance is successfully synthesized by doping rare earth La atoms in transition metals. La doping modifies the coordination environment of active sites and material morphology, modulates the energy structure, improves material conductivity, and optimizes the adsorption and desorption performance of oxygen intermediates. LaFeCoOOH demonstrates exceptional electrocatalytic activity for OER, achieving a remarkably low overpotential of 177 mV at 10 mA cm −2 current density in 1 m KOH alkaline electrolyte. The material exhibits outstanding operational stability, maintaining consistent performance for over 1000 h at an elevated current density of 100 mA cm −2 under identical alkaline conditions. Furthermore, LaFeCoOOH electrode displays superior electrochemical energy storage capabilities, demonstrating an impressive specific capacitance of 3508 mF cm −2 at 1 mA cm −2 current density. When configured as an asymmetric supercapacitor (LaFeCoOOH//Activated Carbon (AC)) using 6 m KOH electrolyte, the device achieves an exceptional energy density of 118.52 µWh cm −2 while delivering a power density of 1700 µW cm −2 , highlighting its dual functionality for both energy conversion and storage applications. Hence, this study provides a new perspective for the exploration of new multifunctional transition metal composites modified with rare earth elements for energy storage and conversion applications.

The performance of energy storage devices is highly related to the properties of electrode materials, such as components, morphology, configurations and so on. As a typical hierarchical carbon material, three-dimensional ordered porous carbon (3D-OPC) has unique characteristics of low cost, large specific surface area, highly ordered channels, and high electronic and ionic conductivity, which shows great potential in energy storage and conversion applications. In this mini review, we summarize various template-assisted preparation methods for 3D-OPC, including hard-, ice- and self-templated approaches, and their applications in electrocatalysis, batteries and supercapacitors. Additionally, the critical roles of vertical channels in 3D-OPC when used as electrodes are also discussed. Finally, the current challenges and future research outlook of 3D-OPC are proposed.

Carbon nanomaterials with sp2 or/and sp hybridization in energy conversion and storage applications: A review

Conductive forms of MoS2 are important emerging 2D materials due to their unique combination of properties such as high electrical conductivity, availability of active sites in edge and basal planes for catalytic activity and expanded interlayer distances. Consequently, there has been a drive to find synthetic routes toward conductive forms of MoS2. Naturally occurring or synthetically grown semiconducting 2H-MoS2 can either be converted into metallic 1T-MoS2, or various dopants may be introduced to modulate the electronic band gap of the 2H-MoS2 phase and increase its conductivity. Chemical and electrochemical intercalation methods, hydrothermal and solvothermal processes, and chemical vapor deposition have all been developed to synthesize conductive MoS2. Conductive MoS2 finds applications in energy storage devices, electrocatalytic reactions, and sensors. Here, we summarize a detailed understanding of the atomic structure and electronic properties of conductive MoS2 which is crucial for its applications. We also discuss various fabrication methods that have been previously reported along with their advantages and disadvantages. Finally, we will give an overview of current trends in different applications in energy storage and electrocatalytic reactions in order to help researchers to further explore the applications of conductive MoS2.

Ion-conducting membranes are crucial in electrochemical storage and energy conversion technologies such as fuel cells, alkaline ion batteries, and redox-flow batteries. The purpose of the membrane is to prevent direct contact between the electrodes while allowing selective ions to pass through. The characteristics of the ion-conducting membranes include excellent mechanical and thermal stability, chemical resistance, high ionic conductivity, and selectivity. Polymers and polymer-based precursors make up the majority of the materials that have been used as ion-conducting membranes. However, most polymer-based membranes have issues related to poor chemical resistance, recyclability, and thermal and mechanical stability. In addition, as more sustainable materials are being sought to create a sustainable society, new environmentally friendly and economically viable materials are in high demand. The clay-based material could be an alternative for ion-conducting applications due to its porous structure, high surface area, tunable interlayer spacing, excellent thermal and mechanical stability, and high ion conductivity. Clay minerals are primarily used in water treatment, pharmaceutics, ceramics, paints, and coating industries. Furthermore, clay minerals have been used as a filler material in energy storage and conversion system to improve the thermal stability and ion conductivity in electrodes, electrolytes, and separators.Herein, we report a novel approach to making non-polymeric hybrid clay membranes using environmentally benign materials such as clay and zwitterion (i.e., sulfobetaine). These membranes with improved ionic conductivity will find immense potential in applications in energy storage and conversion systems. Such membranes have been synthesized by intercalating sulfobetaine molecules into the interlayer spacing of the bentonite clay matrix. Sulfobetaine is a zwitterion composed of quaternary ammonium cations and sulfonate anions. Leveraging the unique structure-property features that exist in zwitterions helps to alter the interlayer spacings in the clay matrix, thereby enabling ion diffusion through the silicate layers. Furthermore, it helps in the formation of a self-supporting membrane. The functionalized membrane's crystal structure and chemical composition were investigated using XRD, XPS, and ATR-FTIR. XRD was used to identify the layered structure of the silicates in clay and the increased interlayer spacing (1.15 nm to 1.8 nm) of the hybrid clay membrane. Data from XPS and ATR-FTIR confirmed the successful functionalization of clay with sulfobetaine. Furthermore, the ionic conductivity of the hybrid clay membrane was characterized using a non-aqueous lithium electrolyte solution, and found a conductivity of . This is one of the first reports showcasing how zwitterions can impart conductivity in clay silicate motifs. It suggests an easy and novel approach to transport lithium-ion through silicate layers, thereby making it suitable for use as membranes in batteries and supercapacitors. The current study demonstrates an easy and versatile approach to developing cost-effective and eco-friendly membranes from sustainable materials such as clay, which, when functionalized, has the potential to be a highly efficient ion-conducting material with applications in energy storage, devices, and technologies.

This investigation reports the fabrication and comprehensive functional evaluation of a newly engineered hybrid nanocomposite composed of gallium nitride (GaN) integrated with a poly(3-methylthiophene)-co-poly(indole) (P3MTH–PID) copolymer, synthesized via a straightforward chemical oxidative polymerization route. GaN nanoparticles were prepared using a supercritical ammonia method and subsequently combined with P3MTH–PID nanofibers to form a uniform hybrid structure. Structural and surface analyses confirmed robust π–π stacking interactions between the GaN scaffold and the P3MTH–PID copolymer matrix, which facilitated efficient charge delocalization and ensured homogeneous nanofiber distribution across the GaN interface. The hybrid material exhibited remarkable electrocatalytic sensitivity toward albendazole (ABZ), as demonstrated by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), achieving a detection limit (DL) of 1.372 × 10⁻⁸ M µA⁻¹ and a quantification limit (QL) of 4.352 × 10⁻⁸ M µA⁻¹. Furthermore, the hybrid displayed excellent photocatalytic performance, enabling complete discoloration of methylene blue (MB) within 30 minutes under UV–visible irradiation, with a kinetic rate constant of 78.66 × 10⁻² min⁻¹. Beyond sensing and photocatalysis, the GaN–P3MTH–PID hybrid also showed significant promise in energy storage applications. In a three-electrode configuration, it delivered a high specific capacitance of 294.25 F g⁻¹ at 1 A g⁻¹, while a symmetric supercapacitor device (2 × 2 cm²) assembled from the same material exhibited comparable capacitance and excellent long-term cycling stability. Collectively, these findings highlight that the GaN–P3MTH–PID hybrid integrates superior electrochemical, photocatalytic, and sensing functionalities with strong stability and biocompatibility, making it a highly versatile candidate for sustainable and multifunctional energy storage and environmental applications.

Cerium dioxide (CeO2, ceria) has long been regarded as one of the key materials in modern catalysis, both as a support and as a catalyst itself. Apart from its well-established use (three-way catalysts and diesel engines), CeO2 has been widely used as a cocatalyst/catalyst in energy conversion and storage applications. The importance stems from the oxygen storage capacity of ceria, which allows it to release oxygen under reducing conditions and to store oxygen by filling oxygen vacancies under oxidizing conditions. However, the nature of the Ce active site remains not well understood because the degree of participation of f electrons in catalytic reactions is not clear in the case of the heavy dependence of catalysis theory on localized d orbitals at the Fermi energy E F . This review focuses on the catalytic applications in energy conversion and storage of CeO2-based nanostructures and discusses the mechanisms for several typical catalytic reactions from the perspectives of electronic properties of CeO2-based nanostructures. Defect engineering is also summarized to better understand the relationship between catalytic performance and electronic properties. Finally, the challenges and prospects of designing high efficiency CeO2-based catalysts in energy storage and conversion have been emphasized.

High efficiency purification of natural flake graphite by flotation combined with alkali-melting acid leaching: application in energy storage

Since its successful isolation in 2014, two-dimensional black phosphorus (BP) has triggered considerable interest ffrom physicists, chemists and material scientists. Benefitting from the unique structural and physicochemical properties, BP has been explored in various applications including photoelectric, biological and electrochemical fields. Besides, BP also shows great potential as a promising electrode material and electrocatalyst in energy storage and electrocatalytic applications, and tremendous progress has been made in these electrochemical fields in recent years. Here, this review highlights the recent experimental and theoretical progress of BP-based electrodes and electrocatalysts. The latest recent advances of BP-based functional materials in energy storage applications including lithium-, magnesium- and sodium-ion batteries, lithium–sulfur batteries and supercapacitors, are presented in detail. Further, the emerging electrocatalytic applications of BP for hydrogen evolution reaction, oxygen evolution reaction and nitrogen reduction reaction are systematically reviewed with achievements and challenges. Finally, we offer brief personal comments on the existing challenges and prospective outlook on the basis of current research progress.

This chapter explores the development, properties, and applications of high dielectric constant polymer-ceramic composites for energy storage applications. Capacitors are essential components in energy storage systems, and advancements in capacitor materials, particularly those with high dielectric constants, have the potential to significantly improve energy storage efficiency and performance. Polymer-ceramic composites offer a promising avenue due to their synergistic combination of high dielectric constants, low loss tangents, mechanical flexibility, and processing versatility. This chapter discusses the synthesis, characterization, properties, and applications of these composites, as well as future directions for research and development in this field.

A novel approach to environmental pollution management/remediation techniques using derived advanced materials

This Review provides a succinct overview of a comparative review examining the role of nanomaterials in energy storage, focusing on developments in the United States (USA) and Africa. Nanomaterials have emerged as key players in revolutionizing energy storage technologies, with significant implications for global energy sustainability. In the USA, advancements in nanomaterials for energy storage have been at the forefront of research and development efforts. Nanostructured materials, such as graphene, carbon nanotubes, and various metal oxides, have demonstrated exceptional properties, enhancing the performance of energy storage devices like batteries and supercapacitors. This review explores the latest innovations in the USA, highlighting the strides made in improving energy storage capacity, charging rates, and overall efficiency through the integration of nanomaterials. Contrastingly, the African continent has been an arena for unique challenges and opportunities in the realm of energy storage. Despite facing resource constraints and limited access to state-of-the-art research facilities, African researchers have showcased resilience and ingenuity in utilizing nanomaterials for energy storage solutions. This comparative analysis sheds light on the distinctive approaches taken by African nations, emphasizing indigenous innovations and locally sourced materials to address energy storage needs in a sustainable and context-specific manner. The review encompasses an examination of the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of nanomaterial applications in energy storage, drawing comparisons between the two regions. It considers the accessibility and affordability of nanomaterial-based technologies, exploring their potential to bridge energy disparities and foster economic development, particularly in African communities. As the global community strives to transition towards cleaner and more sustainable energy systems, understanding the diverse landscapes of nanomaterial research and development is imperative. This comparative review serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders, offering insights into the nuanced dynamics of nanomaterial utilization in energy storage across the USA and Africa. It encourages collaborative efforts and knowledge exchange to propel the equitable advancement of energy storage technologies, ensuring that innovations benefit diverse populations and contribute to a more inclusive and sustainable energy future.

Wide-angle non-reciprocal thermal radiator based on a periodic toroidal array structure

Theoretically, nitroxide radicals can undergo both 1e oxidation and 1e reduction reactions. Their high redox potentials and rapid electron transfer kinetics make them prominent organic cathodes in energy storage applications, particularly in rechargeable organic radical batteries (ORBs). However, most nitroxide-based ORBs could only realize the 1e oxidation reaction, limiting their storage capacity. Achieving the theoretical 2e redox reaction can double the energy storage capability, but it has been challenging due to the complexity of the 1e reduction reaction. This review systematically summarizes the studies on the electrochemical 2e redox reaction of nitroxide radicals. In particular, it discusses the parameters that significantly influence the potential and reversibility of 1e reduction. Furthermore, strategies developed so far to successfully achieve 2e energy storage in ORBs are outlined. Finally, the connection between fundamental electrochemical studies of 2e redox chemistry and its energy storage applications is established, offering valuable insights for developing implementable energy storage technologies.

In high penetrations, demand side management (DMS) applications augment a substation power transformer’s load profile, which can ultimately affect the unit’s capacity limits. Energy storage (ES) applications reduce the evening peaking demand, while time-of-use rates incentivize end-users to charge electric vehicles overnight. The daily load profile is further augmented by high penetrations of photovoltaic (PV) systems, which reduce the midday demand. The resulting load profile exhibits a more flattened characteristic when compared to the historical cyclic profile. Although the initial impact of PV and ES applications may reduce a unit’s peak demand, long-term system planning and emergency conditions may require operation near or above the nameplate rating. Researchers have already determined that a flattened load profile excessively ages a unit’s dielectrics more rapidly. The focus of this research was to identify an approach for establishing new transformer capacity limits for units serving flattened load profiles with a high harmonic content. The analysis utilizes IEEE standards C57.91 and C57.110 to develop an aging model of a 50 MVA SPX Waukesha transformer. The results establish a guideline for determining transformer capacity limits for normal operation, long-term emergency operation, and short-term emergency operation when serving systems with high penetrations of DSM applications.