Conventional synthesis of atomically precise metal nanoclusters typically relies on solution impregnation. Although this approach is facile, it often results in low cluster loading and an inhomogeneous size distribution. In addition, electron transfer across the cluster-support interface plays a critical role in regulating catalytic performance. In this study, Ag nanoclusters (AgNCs) were directly anchored on Co(OH)2 nanosheets via a one-pot synthesis strategy. The AgNCs accept electrons donated by Co(OH)2, leading to the formation of Co3+ with high spin. The modulated Co 3d orbitals enhance the adsorption of oxygen-containing intermediates, thereby significantly improving oxygen evolution reaction activity. As a result, the AgNCs-modified Co(OH)2 electrode exhibits a low overpotential of 308 mV at 10 mA cm−2, comparable to that of commercial RuO2. Furthermore, charge transfer efficiency and reaction kinetics of the material are notably accelerated. In situ Raman spectroscopy reveals that the introduction of AgNCs effectively promotes the surface reconstruction of Co(OH)2 to yield active CoOOH phases. This study not only presents a facile strategy for immobilizing atomically precise metal nanoclusters but also provides valuable insight for developing efficient electrocatalysts.
Cobalt-free high-nickel cathode materials have attracted increasing attention due to their high capacity and cost-effectiveness, but their practical application is limited by Li+/Ni2+ mixing, irreversible phase transitions, and oxygen release during cycling, leading to rapid structural degradation and poor cycling stability. Herein, an Mg/W co-doped LiNi0.92Mn0.08O2 (LNMO-MgW) cathode is synthesized via co-precipitation combined with solid-state lithiation to enhance its structural stability and electrochemical performance. As a lithium-ion battery cathode, LNMO-MgW exhibits 88
Lithium-ion batteries have been established as the cornerstone of next-generation rechargeable energy storage systems owing to their superior energy density; however, uncontrolled lithium dendrite growth remains a critical bottleneck that severely compromises both operational safety and long-term cycling stability. All-solid-state batteries are widely regarded as a promising solution to this dendrite issue, as they are expected to inhibit or even block lithium dendrite growth through mechanical confinement of solid electrolytes (SEs), thereby significantly enhancing battery safety. Nevertheless, SEs unexpectedly fail to completely prevent dendrite nucleation and propagation in practical applications, which hinders the commercialization of high-energy–density all-solid-state batteries. In situ/operando characterization techniques have emerged as indispensable tools for real-time tracking of dendrite nucleation, growth, and propagation mechanisms under realistic battery operating conditions. This review comprehensively summarizes recent advances in diverse in situ/operando characterization platforms, including operando condition-enabled setups, bias-induced deposition systems, in situ electrochemical cells, and electron beam-assisted characterization techniques. Special focus is directed toward real-time operando probing of the evolution of solid electrolyte interphase, unraveling critical insights into how interfacial dynamics govern dendrite initiation and propagation—findings not achievable via conventional ex situ characterization methods. Furthermore, this review provides a critical roadmap for the rational selection of in situ/operando tools tailored to lithium dendrite studies, which is indispensable for deciphering the underlying growth mechanisms and formulating effective suppression strategies. Finally, perspectives are presented on the current challenges and future opportunities in integrating multimodal in situ characterization approaches, aiming to advance from fundamental mechanistic understanding to the rational design of dendrite-resistant architectures for high-energy–density battery systems.
Visible-light (VL)-driven peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation using stable and efficient photocatalysts remains a critical challenge for the removal of persistent pharmaceuticals from water. In this work, a TiO2@g-C3N4 heterojunction (denoted as 10TGCN, corresponding to 10
The electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) represents a promising approach for converting CO2 into value-added chemicals and fuels. However, it remains challenging to design catalysts that simultaneously exhibit high selectivity and long-term stability. Cobalt (Co)-based metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and their derivatives exhibit great potential in the CO2RR field due to their tunable chemical properties, high specific surface area, adjustable porous structures, and unique electronic configurations. This review focuses on recent advances in Co-based MOFs for the electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 to CO. It covers the catalytic behavior of pristine Co-based MOFs and their structure–activity relationships. Additionally, the strategies for converting MOFs into derived materials and the influence of precursor structures on catalytic performance are discussed. Finally, the review concludes with a summary and future perspectives on Co-based MOF research, aiming to offer valuable insights into the rational design and synthesis of high-performance CO2RR catalysts. This review systematically examines research advances in Co-based MOFs in CO2RR, covering the design and catalytic activity of both pristine MOFs and their derivative materials. The current state of the field was summarized and future directions were outlined, guiding the rational design and preparation of Co-based MOF materials.
