Pub Date : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2025-12-18DOI: 10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113962
Aitizaz Ali , Abu Summama Sadavi Bilal , Nayan Banik , Mursaleen Shahid , Hayitov Abdulla , Bekzod Madaminov , Akbar Ali Qureshi , Muhammad Adnan
In this work, we report an integrated interfacial engineering strategy for high-performance, stable hybrid lead halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) using an Fe2O3/WO3 electron-transport bilayer combined with an interfacial layer (IL) of di-isopropylammonium iodide for surface passivation. The bilayer pairs chemically robust Fe2O3 at the transparent electrode with a WO3 top layer to produce graded conduction-band alignment, enhanced electron extraction, and UV-resistant hole blocking. Post-deposition IL treatment passivates under-coordinated Pb2+ sites and reduces surface roughness, leading to improved interfacial quality. The optimized Fe2O3/WO3 with IL devices achieved a power-conversion efficiency of 18.38% (JSC = 22.50 mA.cm-2, VOC = 1.14 V, FF = 71.82%) and exhibits improved reproducibility versus controls. The optimal device retained ∼ 84.8% of initial PCE, outperforming Fe2O3 or WO3-only devices. Our results demonstrate that synergistic bilayer ETL engineering combined with molecular surface passivation simultaneously mitigates interfacial recombination and environmental degradation, providing a scalable, low-temperature route to durable, perovskite photovoltaics.
{"title":"Interfacial modification of hybrid lead halide perovskite solar cells using Fe2O3/WO3 electron transport bilayer for enhanced efficiency and stability","authors":"Aitizaz Ali , Abu Summama Sadavi Bilal , Nayan Banik , Mursaleen Shahid , Hayitov Abdulla , Bekzod Madaminov , Akbar Ali Qureshi , Muhammad Adnan","doi":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113962","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113962","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In this work, we report an integrated interfacial engineering strategy for high-performance, stable hybrid lead halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) using an Fe<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>/WO<sub>3</sub> electron-transport bilayer combined with an interfacial layer (IL) of di-isopropylammonium iodide for surface passivation. The bilayer pairs chemically robust Fe<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub> at the transparent electrode with a WO<sub>3</sub> top layer to produce graded conduction-band alignment, enhanced electron extraction, and UV-resistant hole blocking. Post-deposition IL treatment passivates under-coordinated Pb<sup>2+</sup> sites and reduces surface roughness, leading to improved interfacial quality. The optimized Fe<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub>/WO<sub>3</sub> with IL devices achieved a power-conversion efficiency of 18.38% (J<sub>SC</sub> = 22.50 mA.cm<sup>-2</sup>, V<sub>OC</sub> = 1.14 V, FF = 71.82%) and exhibits improved reproducibility versus controls. The optimal device retained ∼ 84.8% of initial PCE, outperforming Fe<sub>2</sub>O<sub>3</sub> or WO<sub>3</sub>-only devices. Our results demonstrate that synergistic bilayer ETL engineering combined with molecular surface passivation simultaneously mitigates interfacial recombination and environmental degradation, providing a scalable, low-temperature route to durable, perovskite photovoltaics.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18265,"journal":{"name":"Materials Research Bulletin","volume":"197 ","pages":"Article 113962"},"PeriodicalIF":5.7,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145840987","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2025-12-07DOI: 10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113942
Suhee Jang, Lia Saptini Handriani, Hyun Cheol Yun, Dae Yeop Jeong, Yelim Kim, Minjoo Kim, Zhe Gao, Jae-il Jang, Won Il Park
In this study, we introduce a novel edge-induced alloying mechanism in which etched edges of a pre-grown MoS2 film serve as an internal Mo source during metal–organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). Patterned MoS2 templates with exposed edges were fabricated via photolithography and O2 plasma etching, followed by WS2 regrowth under standard MOCVD conditions. Mo atoms released from the edges migrated across the substrate surface, mixing with incoming W atoms to form Mo1-xWxS2 alloys. Raman spectroscopy confirmed alloy formation through characteristic A1g peak shifts and broadening. Complementary X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and spherical aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (Cs-STEM) analyses revealed homogeneous Mo–W mixing with ∼40–50 at. % Mo. Alloy uniformity and reproducibility were preserved across various pattern sizes and inter-hole distances, even at the macroscale. These findings establish a scalable and reproducible edge-induced alloying mechanism, offering guidelines for the fabrication of transition metal dichalcogenide heterostructures and alloys with high structural precision.
{"title":"Direct and scalable edge-induced alloying of Mo1-xWxS2 via patterned MoS2 templates","authors":"Suhee Jang, Lia Saptini Handriani, Hyun Cheol Yun, Dae Yeop Jeong, Yelim Kim, Minjoo Kim, Zhe Gao, Jae-il Jang, Won Il Park","doi":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113942","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113942","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>In this study, we introduce a novel edge-induced alloying mechanism in which etched edges of a pre-grown MoS<sub>2</sub> film serve as an internal Mo source during metal–organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). Patterned MoS<sub>2</sub> templates with exposed edges were fabricated via photolithography and O<sub>2</sub> plasma etching, followed by WS<sub>2</sub> regrowth under standard MOCVD conditions. Mo atoms released from the edges migrated across the substrate surface, mixing with incoming W atoms to form Mo<sub>1-x</sub>W<sub>x</sub>S<sub>2</sub> alloys. Raman spectroscopy confirmed alloy formation through characteristic A<sub>1g</sub> peak shifts and broadening. Complementary X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and spherical aberration-corrected scanning transmission electron microscopy (Cs-STEM) analyses revealed homogeneous Mo–W mixing with ∼40–50 at. % Mo. Alloy uniformity and reproducibility were preserved across various pattern sizes and inter-hole distances, even at the macroscale. These findings establish a scalable and reproducible edge-induced alloying mechanism, offering guidelines for the fabrication of transition metal dichalcogenide heterostructures and alloys with high structural precision.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18265,"journal":{"name":"Materials Research Bulletin","volume":"197 ","pages":"Article 113942"},"PeriodicalIF":5.7,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145705584","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2025-12-26DOI: 10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113980
Wenhua Zhao , Qimeng Zhang , Quan Gan , Niandu Wu , Zhifang Qiu , Yongchun Ye , Xiaodie Zhao , Zhiqiang Wei , Xiaoling He
Herein, we demonstrate a rational dual-template strategy to construct a hierarchical hollow core-shell heterostructure composed of α-phase cobalt-nickel layered double hydroxide integrated with a conductive reduced graphene oxide matrix (CoNi-LDH/rGO). The ZIF-67 metal-organic framework template directs the formation of a well-defined hollow architecture, while the graphene oxide template, subsequently reduced, simultaneously suppresses structural aggregation and establishes an express electron transport network. This synergistic templating yields a material with an expanded interlayer spacing (0.245 nm), a high specific surface area, and a favorable electronic structure with abundant Ni³⁺ active sites. As an oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalyst, the optimized CoNi-LDH/rGO achieves an ultralow overpotential of 207 mV at 10 mA cm⁻² and outstanding long-term stability. As a battery-type supercapacitor electrode, it delivers a remarkable specific capacity of 1426.8 C g⁻¹ at 1 A g⁻¹ and excellent cycling durability (92.5% retention after 10,000 cycles).
在此，我们展示了一种合理的双模板策略，构建了由α-相钴-镍层状双氢氧化物与导电还原氧化石墨烯基体（CoNi-LDH/rGO）集成组成的分层中空核壳异质结构。ZIF-67金属有机框架模板指导形成明确的空心结构，而氧化石墨烯模板随后减少，同时抑制结构聚集并建立快速电子传递网络。这种协同模板产生的材料具有扩展的层间距（0.245 nm）、高比表面积和具有丰富Ni³⁺活性位点的有利电子结构。作为析氧反应（OER）电催化剂，优化后的CoNi-LDH/rGO在10 mA cm（⁻²）下具有207 mV的超低过电位，并具有良好的长期稳定性。作为一种电池型超级电容器电极，它提供了1426.8 C g⁻¹的非凡比容量和良好的循环耐久性（10,000次循环后保持92.5%）。
{"title":"Synergistic dual-template engineering of hollow CoNi-LDH/rGO architectures for exceptional bifunctional electrocatalytic and supercapacitor performance","authors":"Wenhua Zhao , Qimeng Zhang , Quan Gan , Niandu Wu , Zhifang Qiu , Yongchun Ye , Xiaodie Zhao , Zhiqiang Wei , Xiaoling He","doi":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113980","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113980","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Herein, we demonstrate a rational dual-template strategy to construct a hierarchical hollow core-shell heterostructure composed of α-phase cobalt-nickel layered double hydroxide integrated with a conductive reduced graphene oxide matrix (CoNi-LDH/rGO). The ZIF-67 metal-organic framework template directs the formation of a well-defined hollow architecture, while the graphene oxide template, subsequently reduced, simultaneously suppresses structural aggregation and establishes an express electron transport network. This synergistic templating yields a material with an expanded interlayer spacing (0.245 nm), a high specific surface area, and a favorable electronic structure with abundant Ni³⁺ active sites. As an oxygen evolution reaction (OER) electrocatalyst, the optimized CoNi-LDH/rGO achieves an ultralow overpotential of 207 mV at 10 mA cm⁻² and outstanding long-term stability. As a battery-type supercapacitor electrode, it delivers a remarkable specific capacity of <strong>1426.8 C g⁻¹</strong> at 1 A g⁻¹ and excellent cycling durability (92.5% retention after 10,000 cycles).</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18265,"journal":{"name":"Materials Research Bulletin","volume":"197 ","pages":"Article 113980"},"PeriodicalIF":5.7,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145881077","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2025-12-29DOI: 10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113986
Peizhu Mao , Zijian Wang , Zepeng Lv , Shaolong Li , Jilin He , Jianxun Song
This study investigates the nucleation of zirconium during electrodeposition in molten salts. Electrochemical analysis confirmed Zr4+ reduction on Mo proceeds via two reversible, diffusion-controlled steps: Zr4+ + 2e− → Zr2+ and Zr2+ + 2e− → Zr, with diffusion coefficients of 1.64 × 10−5 cm2 s−1 and 9.19 × 10−5 cm2 s−1 for Zr(IV) and Zr(II), respectively, at 750 °C. Chronoamperometry revealed that nucleation transitions from instantaneous to progressive with increasing temperature or overpotential. A key finding is that a high F−/Zr4+ molar ratio of 16:1 stabilizes instantaneous nucleation across a wide overpotential range (50–100 mV), suppressing the transition to progressive nucleation. This study has conducted a comprehensive and systematic in-depth research and analysis on the nucleation process of zirconium ions, laying a solid foundation for precisely controlling the nucleation conditions.
{"title":"Insights into electrochemical behavior and cathodic nucleation of zirconium in the NaCl-KCl melt","authors":"Peizhu Mao , Zijian Wang , Zepeng Lv , Shaolong Li , Jilin He , Jianxun Song","doi":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113986","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113986","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study investigates the nucleation of zirconium during electrodeposition in molten salts. Electrochemical analysis confirmed Zr<sup>4+</sup> reduction on Mo proceeds via two reversible, diffusion-controlled steps: Zr<sup>4+</sup> + 2e<sup>−</sup> → Zr<sup>2+</sup> and Zr<sup>2+</sup> + 2e<sup>−</sup> → Zr, with diffusion coefficients of 1.64 × 10<sup>−5</sup> cm<sup>2</sup> s<sup>−1</sup> and 9.19 × 10<sup>−5</sup> cm<sup>2</sup> s<sup>−1</sup> for Zr(IV) and Zr(II), respectively, at 750 °C. Chronoamperometry revealed that nucleation transitions from instantaneous to progressive with increasing temperature or overpotential. A key finding is that a high F<sup>−</sup>/Zr<sup>4+</sup> molar ratio of 16:1 stabilizes instantaneous nucleation across a wide overpotential range (50–100 mV), suppressing the transition to progressive nucleation. This study has conducted a comprehensive and systematic in-depth research and analysis on the nucleation process of zirconium ions, laying a solid foundation for precisely controlling the nucleation conditions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18265,"journal":{"name":"Materials Research Bulletin","volume":"197 ","pages":"Article 113986"},"PeriodicalIF":5.7,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145939286","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2025-12-01DOI: 10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113930
Aamir Nawaz , Zia Ahmad , Muhammad Babar Taj , Aaysha Ihsan , Muhammad Tasleem
A protein-based gelatin biopolymer shows significant promise in biomedical applications, particularly for anticancer drug delivery. This review summarizes key physicochemical characteristics of gelatin relevant for designing novel drug delivery systems (DDS). The polymer’s chemical structure, sol-gel transition behavior, surface functionalization, crosslinking potential, and controlled drug release properties are discussed in the context of DDS development. The analysis includes the structural morphology of gelatin composites for delivering bioactive and therapeutic agents, focusing on responsiveness to external stimuli such as pH, temperature, magnetic fields, photothermal irradiation, and electric fields. Methodologies for fabricating gelatin composites, including solvent casting, electrospinning, thermal compression, superheated steam processing, and acidic, alkaline, or enzymatic hydrolysis, are briefly reviewed. The enhanced cellular adhesion, regulated drug release, and pH-responsive behavior of gelatin composites contribute to inhibiting cancer cell growth. Challenges in using gelatin composites in DDS are also examined, including limitations in cellular absorption, hydrolysis and degradation, temperature sensitivity, instability, storage issues, particle size/shape control, and drug release kinetics. Finally, gelatin's excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ability to promote cell attachment and proliferation make it an effective nano-vehicle for anticancer drug delivery, enhancing therapeutic efficiency.
{"title":"Exploring fabrication, challenges, and mechanistic view of gelatin composites for anticancer drug release under influence of external stimuli: A comprehensive review","authors":"Aamir Nawaz , Zia Ahmad , Muhammad Babar Taj , Aaysha Ihsan , Muhammad Tasleem","doi":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113930","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113930","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>A protein-based gelatin biopolymer shows significant promise in biomedical applications, particularly for anticancer drug delivery. This review summarizes key physicochemical characteristics of gelatin relevant for designing novel drug delivery systems (DDS). The polymer’s chemical structure, sol-gel transition behavior, surface functionalization, crosslinking potential, and controlled drug release properties are discussed in the context of DDS development. The analysis includes the structural morphology of gelatin composites for delivering bioactive and therapeutic agents, focusing on responsiveness to external stimuli such as pH, temperature, magnetic fields, photothermal irradiation, and electric fields. Methodologies for fabricating gelatin composites, including solvent casting, electrospinning, thermal compression, superheated steam processing, and acidic, alkaline, or enzymatic hydrolysis, are briefly reviewed. The enhanced cellular adhesion, regulated drug release, and pH-responsive behavior of gelatin composites contribute to inhibiting cancer cell growth. Challenges in using gelatin composites in DDS are also examined, including limitations in cellular absorption, hydrolysis and degradation, temperature sensitivity, instability, storage issues, particle size/shape control, and drug release kinetics. Finally, gelatin's excellent biocompatibility, biodegradability, and ability to promote cell attachment and proliferation make it an effective nano-vehicle for anticancer drug delivery, enhancing therapeutic efficiency.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18265,"journal":{"name":"Materials Research Bulletin","volume":"197 ","pages":"Article 113930"},"PeriodicalIF":5.7,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145705558","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2025-12-13DOI: 10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113949
Nimai Pathak , Kawsar Ali , Abdulelah Alolayan , Yuanbing Mao
Narrow ultraviolet and broad tunable near-infrared dual-band emitting single-phase phosphors are scientifically significant and technologically challenging. However, their development remains difficult due to the complexity of achieving multiple luminescent properties through single metal ion doping and defect engineering. In this study, we report narrow-band UV-B and broadband tunable NIR emissions from Gd-doped MgAl2O4 phosphors. Their photoluminescence covers down-conversion across UV, visible, and NIR regions. Its NIR emission is tunable and red-shifts when being excited at long excitation wavelengths. Also, they show visible-to-UVB and UVA up-conversion emissions, attributed to intermediate bands created by defects such as oxygen vacancies and interstitial oxygen as confirmed by EPR analysis. DFT-based calculations have identified defect-based mid-gap states, correlating with the observed emissions. These findings provide insights into the defect-related mechanisms governing both down-conversion and up-conversion in Gd-doped MgAl2O4. This study is expected to excite researchers to explore dual emitting phosphors across UV and NIR ranges.
{"title":"Narrow ultraviolet and broad tunable near-infrared dual emissions from Gd3+-Doped MgAl2O4","authors":"Nimai Pathak , Kawsar Ali , Abdulelah Alolayan , Yuanbing Mao","doi":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113949","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113949","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Narrow ultraviolet and broad tunable near-infrared dual-band emitting single-phase phosphors are scientifically significant and technologically challenging. However, their development remains difficult due to the complexity of achieving multiple luminescent properties through single metal ion doping and defect engineering. In this study, we report narrow-band UV-B and broadband tunable NIR emissions from Gd-doped MgAl<sub>2</sub>O<sub>4</sub> phosphors. Their photoluminescence covers down-conversion across UV, visible, and NIR regions. Its NIR emission is tunable and red-shifts when being excited at long excitation wavelengths. Also, they show visible-to-UVB and UVA up-conversion emissions, attributed to intermediate bands created by defects such as oxygen vacancies and interstitial oxygen as confirmed by EPR analysis. DFT-based calculations have identified defect-based mid-gap states, correlating with the observed emissions. These findings provide insights into the defect-related mechanisms governing both down-conversion and up-conversion in Gd-doped MgAl<sub>2</sub>O<sub>4</sub>. This study is expected to excite researchers to explore dual emitting phosphors across UV and NIR ranges.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18265,"journal":{"name":"Materials Research Bulletin","volume":"197 ","pages":"Article 113949"},"PeriodicalIF":5.7,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145798292","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2025-12-18DOI: 10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113965
Yanming Wang , Junqin Zhang , Xiaofeng Sun , Zao Yi , Shifa Wang , Guorong Liu , Zhongsheng Pu , Hua Yang
Herein, we have developed Ag/In2S3/BiOBr double-heterojunction photocatalysts by decorating (001)-facet exposed BiOBr nanodisks with In2S3 and Ag nanoparticles. It is demonstrated that the ternary Ag/In2S3/BiOBr photocatalysts exhibit higher photocatalysis for degradation of various organic pollutants and H2O2 synthesis than In2S3 and BiOBr as well as binary In2S3/BiOBr and Ag/BiOBr photocatalysts. Typically, the 0.4%Ag/20%IS/BOB results in a 96.9% degradation of ciprofloxacin within 120 min and exhibits a photodegradation activity 3.9 (or 8.3) times higher than that of BiOBr (or In2S3). The yield rate of H2O2 over the 0.4%Ag/20%IS/BOB reaches 1800 µmol g−1 h−1, which is 2.5 (or 5.6) times higher than that over BiOBr (or In2S3). The enhanced photocatalysis mechanism can be explained because the created In2S3/BiOBr and BiOBr/Ag interface electric fields as well as the localized surface plasmon resonance effect of Ag nanoparticles synergistically promote the photocarrier transfer and separation, consequently enabling more photocarrier to participate in the photocatalytic reactions.
{"title":"Constructing Ag/In2S3/BiOBr double-heterojunction photocatalysts for boosting photocatalytic degradation of pollutants and H2O2 synthesis","authors":"Yanming Wang , Junqin Zhang , Xiaofeng Sun , Zao Yi , Shifa Wang , Guorong Liu , Zhongsheng Pu , Hua Yang","doi":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113965","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113965","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Herein, we have developed Ag/In<sub>2</sub>S<sub>3</sub>/BiOBr double-heterojunction photocatalysts by decorating (001)-facet exposed BiOBr nanodisks with In<sub>2</sub>S<sub>3</sub> and Ag nanoparticles. It is demonstrated that the ternary Ag/In<sub>2</sub>S<sub>3</sub>/BiOBr photocatalysts exhibit higher photocatalysis for degradation of various organic pollutants and H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub> synthesis than In<sub>2</sub>S<sub>3</sub> and BiOBr as well as binary In<sub>2</sub>S<sub>3</sub>/BiOBr and Ag/BiOBr photocatalysts. Typically, the 0.4%Ag/20%IS/BOB results in a 96.9% degradation of ciprofloxacin within 120 min and exhibits a photodegradation activity 3.9 (or 8.3) times higher than that of BiOBr (or In<sub>2</sub>S<sub>3</sub>). The yield rate of H<sub>2</sub>O<sub>2</sub> over the 0.4%Ag/20%IS/BOB reaches 1800 µmol g<sup>−1</sup> h<sup>−1</sup>, which is 2.5 (or 5.6) times higher than that over BiOBr (or In<sub>2</sub>S<sub>3</sub>). The enhanced photocatalysis mechanism can be explained because the created In<sub>2</sub>S<sub>3</sub>/BiOBr and BiOBr/Ag interface electric fields as well as the localized surface plasmon resonance effect of Ag nanoparticles synergistically promote the photocarrier transfer and separation, consequently enabling more photocarrier to participate in the photocatalytic reactions.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18265,"journal":{"name":"Materials Research Bulletin","volume":"197 ","pages":"Article 113965"},"PeriodicalIF":5.7,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145798336","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2025-12-18DOI: 10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113961
Hesam Kamyab , Tayebeh Khademi , Shreeshivadasan Chelliapan , Mohammad Yusuf , Saravanan Rajendran , Maryam Shekofteh-Gohari
Integrating semiconductors to improve light absorption and promote efficient charge-carrier separation is widely regarded as a promising strategy for enhancing photocatalytic performance. Nevertheless, designing heterostructures that simultaneously possess optimal optical characteristics and favorable interfacial energy alignments remains a significant challenge. In this study, a Z-scheme ZnO/Sb₂MoO₆ photocatalyst was successfully fabricated via an efficient hydrothermal synthesis method and employed for photocatalytic RhB degradation for the first time. The XRD results confirmed the successful synthesis of pure bare ZnO, Sb2MoO6, and the ZnO/Sb2MoO6 composite, as evidenced by the characteristic peaks corresponding to these semiconductor materials. UV–Vis spectroscopy revealed that the nanocomposite exhibits a broader absorption range, suggesting its potential application as a visible-light-driven photocatalyst. Additionally, the composite demonstrated a smaller radius in the EIS Nyquist plot, a stronger photocurrent response, and a weaker PL emission intensity, all of which indicate reduced charge transfer resistance and more efficient separation of charge carriers. The ZnO/Sb2MoO6 composite demonstrated significantly enhanced and reliable photocatalytic degradation performance compared to individual ZnO and Sb2MoO6. Under optimal conditions (photocatalyst dosage: 1 g l-1, dye concentration: 5 mg l-1, and pH = 9), the composite achieved a degradation rate constant of 589.3 × 10–4 min-1 for RhB. The Z-scheme heterostructure enhances light absorption, effectively suppresses charge-carrier recombination, and enables the spatial separation of oxidation and reduction sites. Additionally, it preserves an optimal alignment of the valence and conduction bands, thereby sustaining the photocatalyst’s robust redox activity. This study introduces an easy approach to developing photocatalysts by creating direct Z-scheme electron transfer pathways, enabling highly effective water purification.
{"title":"Enhancing RhB photocatalytic degradation with ZnO/Sb2MoO6 Z-scheme photocatalyst: Evaluation of performance and mechanism","authors":"Hesam Kamyab , Tayebeh Khademi , Shreeshivadasan Chelliapan , Mohammad Yusuf , Saravanan Rajendran , Maryam Shekofteh-Gohari","doi":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113961","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113961","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Integrating semiconductors to improve light absorption and promote efficient charge-carrier separation is widely regarded as a promising strategy for enhancing photocatalytic performance. Nevertheless, designing heterostructures that simultaneously possess optimal optical characteristics and favorable interfacial energy alignments remains a significant challenge. In this study, a Z-scheme ZnO/Sb₂MoO₆ photocatalyst was successfully fabricated via an efficient hydrothermal synthesis method and employed for photocatalytic RhB degradation for the first time. The XRD results confirmed the successful synthesis of pure bare ZnO, Sb<sub>2</sub>MoO<sub>6</sub>, and the ZnO/Sb<sub>2</sub>MoO<sub>6</sub> composite, as evidenced by the characteristic peaks corresponding to these semiconductor materials. UV–Vis spectroscopy revealed that the nanocomposite exhibits a broader absorption range, suggesting its potential application as a visible-light-driven photocatalyst. Additionally, the composite demonstrated a smaller radius in the EIS Nyquist plot, a stronger photocurrent response, and a weaker PL emission intensity, all of which indicate reduced charge transfer resistance and more efficient separation of charge carriers. The ZnO/Sb<sub>2</sub>MoO<sub>6</sub> composite demonstrated significantly enhanced and reliable photocatalytic degradation performance compared to individual ZnO and Sb<sub>2</sub>MoO<sub>6</sub>. Under optimal conditions (photocatalyst dosage: 1 g <span>l</span><sup>-1</sup>, dye concentration: 5 mg <span>l</span><sup>-1</sup>, and pH = 9), the composite achieved a degradation rate constant of 589.3 × 10<sup>–4</sup> min<sup>-1</sup> for RhB. The Z-scheme heterostructure enhances light absorption, effectively suppresses charge-carrier recombination, and enables the spatial separation of oxidation and reduction sites. Additionally, it preserves an optimal alignment of the valence and conduction bands, thereby sustaining the photocatalyst’s robust redox activity. This study introduces an easy approach to developing photocatalysts by creating direct Z-scheme electron transfer pathways, enabling highly effective water purification.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18265,"journal":{"name":"Materials Research Bulletin","volume":"197 ","pages":"Article 113961"},"PeriodicalIF":5.7,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145881053","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2025-12-18DOI: 10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113964
L.G. Betancourt-Cantera , Y. Reséndiz-Trejo , F. Sánchez-De Jesús , C.A. Cortés-Escobedo , A.M. Bolarín-Miró
This study demonstrates a simple and cost-effective route to induce relaxor ferroelectric behavior in BaTiO3 (BTO) ceramics. Sintered pellets prepared from unmilled and milled BTO powders were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), dielectric spectroscopy, and P–E measurements. XRD confirmed the retention of the tetragonal P4mm phase in all samples. Dielectric spectra showed a clear evolution from a sharp Curie peak (∼120 °C) in pellets obtained from unmilled powders to a broad diffuse transition (60 °C–180 °C) after milling; with the diffuseness coefficients increasing from 0.52 to 1.30. Piezoresponse force microscopy corroborated the formation of polar nanoregions in sintered pellets obtained from milled BTO. P–E loops exhibited the expected relaxor-type slim hysteresis, with reduced Pᵣ (1.32 μC/cm2) and Ec (5.69 kV/cm). Milling also improved functional performance, the recoverable energy density (Wrec) increased from 0.22 to 0.31 J/cm3, while the energy storage efficiency (η) increased from 15 % to 85 %.
{"title":"Relaxor ferroelectric transition and energy storage enhancement in BaTiO3 ceramics through high-energy ball milling","authors":"L.G. Betancourt-Cantera , Y. Reséndiz-Trejo , F. Sánchez-De Jesús , C.A. Cortés-Escobedo , A.M. Bolarín-Miró","doi":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113964","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113964","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This study demonstrates a simple and cost-effective route to induce relaxor ferroelectric behavior in BaTiO<sub>3</sub> (BTO) ceramics. Sintered pellets prepared from unmilled and milled BTO powders were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), dielectric spectroscopy, and P–E measurements. XRD confirmed the retention of the tetragonal <em>P4mm</em> phase in all samples. Dielectric spectra showed a clear evolution from a sharp Curie peak (∼120 °C) in pellets obtained from unmilled powders to a broad diffuse transition (60 °C–180 °C) after milling; with the diffuseness coefficients increasing from 0.52 to 1.30. Piezoresponse force microscopy corroborated the formation of polar nanoregions in sintered pellets obtained from milled BTO. P–E loops exhibited the expected relaxor-type slim hysteresis, with reduced Pᵣ (1.32 μC/cm<sup>2</sup>) and Ec (5.69 kV/cm). Milling also improved functional performance, the recoverable energy density (W<sub>rec</sub>) increased from 0.22 to 0.31 J/cm<sup>3</sup>, while the energy storage efficiency (η) increased from 15 % to 85 %.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18265,"journal":{"name":"Materials Research Bulletin","volume":"197 ","pages":"Article 113964"},"PeriodicalIF":5.7,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145840988","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2026-04-01Epub Date: 2025-12-29DOI: 10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113984
Xinqi Zhang , Bingxin Wang , Dawu Shu , Wanxin Li , Fangfang An , yueyong Dong
Dyeing wastewater, a common type of wastewater in the textile industry, has a complex composition, deep color, and poor degradability. In this work, hydrothermal method was employed to synthesize Ni@MXene catalysts, and their performance in the Ni@MXene/PMS (peroxymonosulfate) system was investigated. A mixed system containing 7.5 g/L PMS and 0.2 g/L Ni@MXene was stirred for 60 min at 25 °C and pH 6, achieving a degradation percentage of 93.66%, ‧OH are the primary active species in this catalytic system, and the anion has minimal interference with the degradation process. The degradation percentage of the Ni@MXene catalyst can still reach 88.23 % after 3 times of recycling, and the degraded dyeing wastewater can be used for dyeing cotton fabrics. In conclusion, the catalyst demonstrates exhibits significant potential for dye degradation and wastewater recycling, providing valuable insights for energy conservation and emission reduction.
{"title":"Eco-friendly cotton fabric coloration using Ni@Ti3C2 MXene for reactive dyeing wastewater degradation","authors":"Xinqi Zhang , Bingxin Wang , Dawu Shu , Wanxin Li , Fangfang An , yueyong Dong","doi":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113984","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.materresbull.2025.113984","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Dyeing wastewater, a common type of wastewater in the textile industry, has a complex composition, deep color, and poor degradability. In this work, hydrothermal method was employed to synthesize Ni@MXene catalysts, and their performance in the Ni@MXene/PMS (peroxymonosulfate) system was investigated. A mixed system containing 7.5 g/L PMS and 0.2 g/L Ni@MXene was stirred for 60 min at 25 °C and pH 6, achieving a degradation percentage of 93.66%, ‧OH are the primary active species in this catalytic system, and the anion has minimal interference with the degradation process. The degradation percentage of the Ni@MXene catalyst can still reach 88.23 % after 3 times of recycling, and the degraded dyeing wastewater can be used for dyeing cotton fabrics. In conclusion, the catalyst demonstrates exhibits significant potential for dye degradation and wastewater recycling, providing valuable insights for energy conservation and emission reduction.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":18265,"journal":{"name":"Materials Research Bulletin","volume":"197 ","pages":"Article 113984"},"PeriodicalIF":5.7,"publicationDate":"2026-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"145881082","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"材料科学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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