Abstract Single-atom catalysts have long been recognized as a revolutionary class of catalytic materials, owing to their maximal atom utilization efficiency and unique electronic structures that enable superior catalytic performance across diverse reactions. However, the translation of catalysts, for example, single-atom catalysts, from laboratory-scale fundamental research to industrial-scale practical applications has been severely hindered by inherent limitations in traditional synthesis strategies—weak metal–support interactions lead to poor stability, low reproducibility, and scalability challenges. Against this backdrop, Prof. Jin Zhang and Prof. Ruqian Zou from Peking University, in collaboration with Prof. Ju Li from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Jiong Lu from the National University of Singapore, have developed a clicking auxiliary-enabled strategy for constructing clicking-single-atom catalysts and integrated it with a robot-driven high-throughput platform (Chen W, Feng L, Ma B et al. Click-locking strategy enables automated synthesis of single-atom catalysts with industrial compatibility. Nat Syn 2026. https://doi.org/10.1038/s44160-026-01004-9). This innovative approach represents a pivotal step forward in bridging the gap between single-atom catalyst research and industrial deployment. This achievement not only paves the way for the industrialization of single-atom catalysts but also marks the advent of a new era of materials research driven by the synergy of artificial intelligence and robotics. Moving forward, catalytic materials development should take ‘full-process intelligence’ as the core goal to drive leaps and bounds in energy catalysis, environmental catalysis and other fields.

Abstract Environmental licensing related to underwater acoustic emissions represents a critical bottleneck for the commercial deployment of marine renewable energy. This study presents a control engineering framework to mitigate acoustic risks from tidal current converters (TCCs) without compromising project viability. A MATLAB/Simulink model of a TCC was utilized to evaluate two distinct mitigation tiers: (i) architectural modification, comparing a geared induction generator against a direct-drive permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) and (ii) operational control, analysing the impact of switching frequencies and maximum power point tracking coefficient (Kopt) tuning. Results indicate that lowering switching frequencies (Fs) is ineffective, increasing power electronic losses by over 2000% with negligible acoustic benefit. Conversely, the direct-drive PMSG architecture reduced sound pressure levels by approximately 10 dB re 1 μPa, effectively eliminating mechanical tonal noise. For existing geared systems, de-tuning the Kopt coefficient by a factor of 1.2 reduced the probability of exceeding temporary threshold shift limits for marine mammals, with a quantified energy yield reduction of 3.58%. These findings propose a hierarchical mitigation strategy: selecting direct-drive topologies for acoustically sensitive sites, and utilizing maximum power point tracking coefficient based power curtailment as a transient operational mode during critical biological migration periods.

Abstract Vehicles traveling on roads produce substantial pressure energy, which offers a novel approach to addressing the power supply needs of roadside facilities. This study proposes a hydraulic energy storage-based road pressure power generation system and develops a system model that delineates the transmission path of wheel pressure energy when a vehicle passes. It also investigates the impacts of different vehicle types and operating speeds on the power generation system. Theoretical models are established for pressure energy capture, hydraulic energy storage, proportional flow valves, as well as torque balance and power transmission between hydraulic motors and generators. A dual-target fuzzy control strategy is proposed to regulate both the opening pressure of the accumulator and the opening degree of the proportional flow valve, thereby enhancing the stability of the system’s output. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate that the adoption of this two-stage fuzzy control strategy enables the energy storage unit to select the optimal opening pressure according to real-time traffic conditions, stabilize the flow rate of the energy release unit, and improve the power generation efficiency of the system. This work lays a solid theoretical foundation for the collection and utilization of road pressure energy.

Abstract The paradigm shift towards electric mobility has catalysed a substantial surge in research endeavours aimed at augmenting both the performance, life, and durability of lithium-ion batteries deployed within the confines of small electric vehicles. At the crux of this pursuit lies the imperative development of robust battery thermal management systems, indispensable for the meticulous regulation of battery temperature, thereby ensuring seamless operation and bolstering safety protocols. This review paper undertakes a comprehensive synthesis of recent strides achieved in battery thermal management systems for small electric vehicles propelled by lithium-ion batteries. Encompassing a spectrum of methodologies, ranging from passive to active cooling techniques, alongside the incorporation of phase change materials and innovative thermal interface materials, it critically evaluates these strategies. Furthermore, the discourse navigates through the prevailing challenges and charts out prospective trajectories in this domain, poised to foster the evolution of efficient and dependable battery thermal management systems tailored specifically for small electric vehicles. Numerous investigations have focused on the thermal regulation of lithium-ion batteries. Despite the prevalent excitement surrounding small electric vehicles today, the crucial matter of implementing effective battery thermal management systems in small electric vehicles has not received adequate attention, potentially diminishing customer satisfaction with small electric vehicle performance. Thus, the current study aims to delve into the thermal optimization of lithium-ion batteries for small electric vehicles. Initially, the study investigates into discussing design parameters for battery thermal management systems, referencing research conducted on thermal stability, particularly concerning thermal runaway, and the performance of electric vehicles in subzero temperatures regarding battery thermal management systems. Furthermore, the study places emphasis on reviewing and analysing various theoretical and practical heat transfer techniques applied by researchers to lithium-ion batteries to enhance battery thermal management systems. Consequently, the paper’s novel contribution lies in bridging the gap between researchers and manufacturers regarding battery thermal management systems in small electric vehicles, thus propelling innovative battery designs for improved battery thermal management systems in small electric vehicles.

Abstract Renewable methanol, a low-/zero-carbon fuel carrier, offers the dual benefits of reducing shipping emissions and enabling carbon recycling in energy systems. However, its scalability is hindered by the high production costs and the limited availability of carbon source. This study evaluates the economic viability of two primary synthesis routes—E-methanol and biomethanol—analyzing how production pathways, feedstock inputs, and energy consumption affect costs while proposing development strategies. For E-methanol, three processes are compared: CO2 hydrogenation to methanol, CO2 hydrogenation to syngas followed by methanol synthesis, and natural gas reforming integrated with CO2 direct hydrogenation (gray–green methanol). The process coupled with electrolytic hydrogen has the lowest cost (USD 500–600/t), yet remains 3–5 times higher than conventional methanol. Key cost drivers are electricity for electrolysis (60%–70% of total cost) and CO2 capture (20%–30%). Industrial off-gases are currently the preferred source over direct air capture due to their lower cost. For biomethanol, three processes are compared: biomass gasification, gasification coupled with green hydrogen, and biogas reforming. Feedstock costs are the dominant factor (40%–60%), with biomass gasification showing low carbon efficiency. Integrating green hydrogen improves carbon negativity and reduces feedstock reliance but increases electricity demand. Biogas-based methanol is economically viable only in specific locales due to feedstock constraints. To reduce costs, advancements in renewable energy, electrolysis efficiency, and localized feedstock integration are critical. Policy measures, including carbon trading systems and tax/subsidy mechanisms, are recommended to enhance competitiveness. Findings offer insights for optimizing production pathways and designing supportive policies to accelerate renewable methanol adoption.

Abstract This paper reports the valorization of cigarette filter waste to prepare new magnetic catalysts to support the energy transition via biodiesel production. Two synthesis routes were proposed to produce the catalysts, from cigarette filter waste-derived cellulose acetate and Fe3O4 particles, to improve the formation of fatty acid methyl esters from the transesterification of soybean oil with methanol. The first route involved the pyrolysis of cigarette filters and the synthesis and loading of magnetite on pyrolyzed material, while the second route included the direct use of cellulose acetate fibers (without pyrolysis). The results showed that the catalytic properties of the magnetic materials obtained from the second route outperformed those observed for the materials from the first route. The best catalyst from route 2 was utilized to perform a sensitive analysis of transesterification conditions to maximize biodiesel production and for preliminary catalyst reuse tests. Transesterification kinetic studies were performed at 50–70 °C to obtain up to 99.5 % of fatty acid methyl esters formation. The results of this study can contribute to resolving some of the current challenges related to biodiesel production via heterogeneous transesterification using easily recoverable materials prepared from cigarette butts, which are relevant in waste management worldwide due to their environmental impact.

Abstract The growth of global energy demand and the aggravation of environmental pollution have prompted the rapid development of renewable energy, in which the solar photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) heat pump system, as a technology integrating photovoltaic power generation and thermal energy conversion, has also ushered in the development and challenges. This paper reviews the relevant literature in detail, and solar PV/T heat pump technology is overviewed from three perspectives. Photovoltaic/thermal collectors are classified into three main types: air-cooled, liquid-cooled, and heat pipe. The advantages and disadvantages of different collectors and applicable scenarios are analyzed. The system energy efficiency, performance enhancement, and optimization strategies of the new coupled system established by PV/T technology and different heat pump technologies are discussed, emphasizing the potential of PV/T heat pump systems in improving the comprehensive energy utilization efficiency, energy saving, and emission reduction. The impact of the outdoor environment and regional applicability on the performance of collector components and systems are analyzed, and the technical, environmental, and market challenges facing the system were identified. Finally, future trends in PV/T heat pump technology are outlined, including technological innovation, cost reduction, and market expansion, as well as their importance in the global energy transition. The results of this study indicate that PV/T heat pump systems play an important role in achieving green and sustainable development; however, further technological breakthroughs and market promotion are still needed.

Abstract The efficiency of solar desalination systems is often hindered by the intermittent nature of solar radiation, leading to thermal fluctuations and reduced freshwater yield. This study investigates the integration of flint stones as a low-cost and effective thermal energy storage (TES) medium to enhance the productivity and efficiency of conical solar stills. A series of experimental analyses were conducted using flint stones of varying diameters (1, 1.5, 2, and 2.5 cm) to determine their impact on thermal regulation, evaporation rates, and freshwater production. The findings revealed that 2 cm flint stones exhibited the highest thermal storage capacity and energy retention, leading to a 40.18% increase in water yield (7.85 L/m2/day) compared to the conventional system (5.6 L/m2/day). Additionally, the system with 2 cm flint stones demonstrated a 119.62% improvement in overall efficiency, 135% enhancement in exergy efficiency, and 195% increase in the exergy production factor over the baseline system. The integration of flint stones provided thermal stability by reducing heat loss, maintaining consistent basin water temperatures, and extending the evaporation process beyond peak sunlight hours. This improved the overall stability and continuity of distillation performance throughout the day. Quantitatively, the economic analysis indicated a shortened payback period of 19 days for the optimized system, compared to 27 days for the conventional system, making it a cost-effective and sustainable solution for water-scarce regions. This study is the first to optimize the size of natural flint stones as TES materials in conical solar stills, demonstrating their superior heat retention capacity and significant performance improvement in freshwater production and energy utilization. The results validate the synergy between optimized TES and conical geometry as a promising design strategy for sustainable and affordable solar desalination systems. These findings pave the way for more efficient, economically viable, and environmentally sustainable solar desalination systems to combat global water scarcity.

Abstract The radiation property of flue gas in pulverized coal/biomass oxyfuel combustion distinguishes obviously from that in air combustion. Moreover, the particle emissivity and scattering factor can vary during its thermal conversion. Both phenomena challenge the accurate prediction of radiative heat transfer in coal/biomass oxyfuel combustion. As one solution to surmount this challenge, a new efficient exponential wide band model + particle radiation property model is proposed in this work. For validation, the proposed model is compared with other parallel models, and their predictions are compared against experimental data. It is found that the efficient exponential wide band model + particle radiation property model can give reliable predictions at different operating conditions. The maximum relative errors between the prediction and the experimental surface incident radiation are within 7% at the burner outlet and 2.5% at the peak point. Moreover, the iteration time consumptions are 0.55 and 0.87 s for the 0.5 MW case, and 35.45 and 35.66 s for the 600 MW case with the parallel radiation model and the proposed model. After validation, the feasibility and characteristics of the coal/biomass oxyfuel co-combustion process in a 600 MW tangentially fired boiler are predicted. It is found that the boiler can run stably and the CO2 mass fraction in the discharged flue gas can be around 90%.

Abstract Hydrogen storage composite overwrapped pressure vessels (COPVs), as a core component of fuel cells, are widely used in the new energy vehicles and other fields. However, the service performance of COPVs, especially the burst pressure, has a great dispersion, which may come from the microscopic defects inside the vessels. In this paper, the industrial computed tomography scan was carried out on a type III hydrogen storage COPV with an aluminum alloy liner and a carbon fiber wound layer, and it was found that many delamination defects with random sizes and locations exist inside the fiber wound layer. Among these defects, there are 164 delamination defects with an area of <500 mm2 (accounting for 87.7% of the total number of defects), but the area of the defects only comprises 19.14% of the entire defects area. Delamination defects were the predominant type of manufacturing defect in the fiber wound layer of COPVs. Then the burst test of the COPV was carried out, which showed that the aggregated area of large-sized delamination defects located in the composite layer of the cylindrical part triggered the crack initiation during the burst test. Thus, in turn, directly affected both the burst pressure and the post-burst morphology. Finally, a 3D equivalent model of the laminated structure is proposed to model the expansion of the composite cylinder. By carrying out a finite element simulation of the COPV, the most dangerous area during the loading process of the COPV is confirmed. The experimentally measured burst pressure of the cylinder is 115.5 MPa, which deviates by 18.6% from the pristine model prediction and by 9.09% from the model with delamination defects.