Article
Environmental Sciences
Yang Yang, Huichuan Zhuang, Han Cui, Bingfeng Liu, Guojun Xie, Defeng Xing
Summary: A novel method was developed to fabricate air-cathodes by assembling activated carbon, a waterproof breathable membrane, and stainless steel mesh to reduce manufacturing costs. Different types of cathodes were tested, with the activated carbon-stainless steel mesh-polyurethane assembly showing higher power density compared to conventional cathodes. Analysis of microbial communities revealed differences between anode and cathode biofilms, demonstrating the influence of different air-cathodes on microbial assembly.
SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Xiaowei Xing, Xiaoyu Zhang, Jian Fang, Hua Zhou, Haitao Niu
Summary: This study presents a facile and scalable method to fabricate waterproof breathable membranes using electrospinning and electrospraying. The composite nanofiber membranes exhibit excellent durability, breathability, and elasticity. This research is of great significance for the preparation of waterproof and breathable membranes with balanced properties.
Article
Materials Science, Composites
Xiaolu You, Hongbo Wang, Jianxin He, Kun Qi
Summary: In this study, excellent waterproof polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fibrous membranes were constructed using simple strategies. Fluorine-free hydrophobic polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) was embedded into PET membranes via one-step electrospinning and heat treatment techniques. The resulting PET/PDMS membranes exhibited vigorous hydrophobic channels, small apertures, high porosity, and excellent water resistance (86.9 kPa), moisture permeability (5100 g m(-2) d(-1)), air permeability (6.97 mm s(-1)), and mechanical strength (6.27 MPa). These nanofiber membranes can serve as exceptional additional products for various applications.
COMPOSITES COMMUNICATIONS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Ailing Yin, Jian Wang, Shuang Hu, Mingyuan Sun, Baojun Sun, Mengwei Dong, Ting Zhang, Zhichao Feng, Haoyu Zhang, Bingqi Shi, Congcong Zhang, Hong Liu
Summary: Obtaining flexible tactile sensors with high sensitivity, waterproofness, and breathability is still a challenge. In this study, a fully flexible piezoelectric tactile sensor with high-performance, energy-efficient, waterproof, and breathable properties was constructed. The sensor shows great sensing performance in monitoring human physiological signals without applying a gate voltage, making it promising in various applications such as smart electronic skins and human-machine interaction.
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Jinchao Zhao, Teng Zhang, Youmu Li, Leping Huang, Youhong Tang
Summary: In this study, a fluoride-free triblock copolymer poly(styrene-b-butadiene-b-styrene) (SBS) fibrous membrane was prepared using electrospinning. A coarse structure was built onto the surface of the SBS fiber using dip-coating of silicon dioxide nanoparticles (SiO2 NPs) based on the bionics of lotus leaves. Polydopamine was introduced as an interfacial adhesive between the SBS fiber and SiO2 NPs. The modified nanofibrous membrane exhibited significantly improved hydrophobicity and retained super-hydrophobic properties after stretching cycles.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Gaihuan Ren, Zhanzhao Li, Lulu Tian, Dongxu Lu, Yurui Jin, Yunhe Zhang, Bo Li, Hongqin Yu, Jianxin He, Dejun Sun
Summary: Environmentally friendly and high-performing fluorine-free silicon-based polyurethane/polymethyl methacrylate/polyvinyl butyral (Si-PU/PMMA/PVB) WBMs were prepared through easy electrospinning technology and post-heat treatment. The heat treatment decreased the maximum pore size of the fiber membrane, enhancing the waterproof ability, and also improved the mechanical properties. The resulting nanofiber membrane exhibited good water resistance, breathability, and tensile strength, making it suitable for special protective clothing and outdoor equipment.
COLLOIDS AND SURFACES A-PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND ENGINEERING ASPECTS
(2023)
Article
Chemistry, Applied
Giacomo Tedeschi, Susana Guzman-Puyol, Luca Ceseracciu, Jose J. Benitez, Luca Goldoni, Andreas Koschella, Thomas Heinze, Gabriella Cavallo, Valentina Dichiarante, Giancarlo Terraneo, Athanassia Athanassiou, Pierangelo Metrangolo, Jose A. Heredia-Guerrero
Summary: Cellulose ester films were prepared by esterifying cellulose with multibranched fluorinated carboxylic acid at different molar ratios. The films showed varying morphological and optical properties, as well as different degrees of substitution (DS) and mechanical behaviors. The presence of BRFA groups shifted the mechanical behavior from rigid to ductile and soft, and the films exhibited wettability similar to standard fluoropolymers.
CARBOHYDRATE POLYMERS
(2021)
Review
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Qian Zhu, Jingping Hu, Bingchuan Liu, Shaogang Hu, Sha Liang, Keke Xiao, Jiakuan Yang, Huijie Hou
Summary: Microbial fuel cells have received significant attention as a sustainable technology for addressing environmental pollution and energy shortage. Recent advancements in functional materials for MFC systems include the development of enhanced anode materials, cost-effective separators/membranes, and efficient cathode catalysts to improve overall performance and efficiency. Challenges and future prospects for functional materials in MFC applications are also discussed in this review.
ENERGY & ENVIRONMENTAL MATERIALS
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Textiles
Jiatai Gu, Zhenzhen Quan, Liming Wang, Hongnan Zhang, Ni Wang, Xiaohong Qin, Rongwu Wang, Jianyong Yu
Summary: Novel binary structured composite fibrous membranes with waterproof and breathable properties were successfully fabricated using one-step multi-jet electrospinning technology. The membranes exhibited synergistic performance with robust hydrophobicity and elaborate fiber-microsphere binary structure.
FIBERS AND POLYMERS
(2022)
Article
Materials Science, Textiles
Aima Sameen Anjum, Kyung Chul Sun, Eun Jong Son, Jae Hyung Yu, Su Hyung Park, Myung Soo Park, Chang Soon Hwang, Jae Woo Ahn, Sung Hoon Jeong
Summary: The research aims to investigate how parameters such as membrane thickness and aging temperature impact the morphology and performance of porous membranes in the protective textile industry. Analyses were conducted using tools such as scanning electron microscopy to study the effects on pore size and morphology, as well as evaluating physical properties like water pressure and vapor permeability. Laminated textiles show promising potential as substitutes for various applications due to their good mechanical, physical, and aesthetic performance.
FIBERS AND POLYMERS
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Shuying Wang, Haizhou Huang, Cheng Liu, Yuyan Xia, Changqing Ye, Zewei Luo, Chunhua Cai, Chaolun Wang, Liangjian Lyu, Hengchang Bi, Xing Wu, Litao Sun
Summary: This study proposes a waterproof and breathable electronic skin with a simple fabrication process. The prepared electronic skin exhibits superior waterproof capability, breathability, and reliable human motion monitoring.
ADVANCED MATERIALS TECHNOLOGIES
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Tong Zheng, Guizhong Li, Linnan Zhang, Weifang Sun, Xiaoming Pan, Taihong Chen, Yuanhao Wang, Yuqing Zhou, Jili Tian, Ya Yang
Summary: In this study, a waterproof and breathable nitrocellulose-based triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) was developed for human-machine interaction. The performance of the TENG was enhanced by doping silver nanowires (Ag NWs) into the tribo-positive layer. The optimized TENG demonstrated a 360% improvement in triboelectric performance and a power density of 0.38 W/m2. The research provides a feasible and simple method to fabricate high-performance TENGs and highlights their potential application in wearable devices and self-powered systems.
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Xiaobao Gong, Xia Yin, Fei Wang, Xiaoyan Liu, Jianyong Yu, Shichao Zhang, Bin Ding
Summary: This article provides a systematic overview of the recent progress in the design, fabrication, and application of waterproof and breathable nanofibrous membranes. It comprehensively analyzes the different design concepts and structural characteristics of each type of membrane, highlights representative applications, and presents the challenges and future perspectives associated with these membranes.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Yuankun Hao, Xinbo Zhang, Qing Du, Huizhong Wang, Huu Hao Ngo, Wenshan Guo, Yufeng Zhang, Tianwei Long, Li Qi
Summary: A novel integrated system combining an anaerobic membrane bioreactor (AnMBR) and a single-chamber air cathode microbial fuel cell (ScMFC) was designed to enhance methane production and reduce membrane fouling. The system delivered a stable micro-bioelectric field environment with a high voltage output. Compared to the conventional AnMBR, this system increased methane production and reduced soluble microbial product and extracellular polymeric substances concentrations. In addition, the trans membrane pressure also remained in a slow growth status, prolonging the system's operation cycle.
JOURNAL OF MEMBRANE SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Environmental Sciences
Ambika Arkatkar, Arvind Kumar Mungray, Preeti Sharma
Summary: The study tested the application of a microbial patch in MFC to address oxygen diffusion issues, finding that the design improved electron transfer rate, wastewater degradation, and reduced resistance. This simple design also acted as a two-step degradation system for improved wastewater management and green energy generation.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Tianyu Chen, Zhibin Lu, Guangjin Zeng, Yongmin Xie, Jie Xiao, Zhifeng Xu
Summary: The study introduces a high-performance LSGM electrolyte-supported tubular DC-SOFC stack for portable applications, which shows great potential in developing into high-performing, efficient, and environmentally friendly portable power sources for distributed applications.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Wenbin Tong, Yili Chen, Shijie Gong, Shaokun Zhu, Jie Tian, Jiaqian Qin, Wenyong Chen, Shuanghong Chen
Summary: In this study, a three-dimensional porous NiO interface layer with enhanced anode dynamics is fabricated, forming a Schottky contact with the zinc substrate, allowing rapid and uniform zinc plating both inside and below the interface layer. The resulting NiO@Zn exhibits exceptional stability and high capacity retention.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Yafeng Bai, Kaidi Li, Liying Wang, Yang Gao, Xuesong Li, Xijia Yang, Wei Lu
Summary: In this study, a flexible zinc ion supercapacitor with gel electrolytes, porous alpha-MnO2@reduced graphene oxide cathode, and activated carbon/carbon cloth anode was developed. The device exhibits excellent electrochemical performance and stability, even at low temperatures, with a high cycle retention rate after 5000 cycles.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Anmol Jnawali, Matt D. R. Kok, Francesco Iacoviello, Daniel J. L. Brett, Paul R. Shearing
Summary: This article presents the results of a systematic study on the electrochemical performance and mechanical changes in two types of commercial batteries with different anode chemistry. The study reveals that the swelling of anode layers in batteries with silicon-based components causes deformations in the jelly roll structure, but the presence of a small percentage of silicon does not significantly impact the cycling performance of the cells within the relevant state-of-health range for electric vehicles (EVs). The research suggests that there is room for improving the cell capacities by increasing the silicon loading in composite anodes to meet the increasing demands on EVs.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Yohandys A. Zulueta, My Phuong Pham-Ho, Minh Tho Nguyen
Summary: Advanced atomistic simulations were used to study ion transport in the Na- and K-doped lithium disilicate Li2Si2O5. The results showed that Na and K doping significantly enhanced Li ion diffusion and conduction in the material.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Zongying Han, Hui Dong, Yanru Yang, Hao Yu, Zhibin Yang
Summary: An efficient phase inversion-impregnation approach is developed to fabricate BaO-decorated Ni8 mol% YSZ anode-supported tubular solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) with anti-coking properties. BaO nanoislands are successfully introduced inside the Ni-YSZ anode, leading to higher peak power densities and improved stability in methane fuel. Density functional theory calculations suggest that the loading of BaO nanoislands facilitates carbon elimination by capturing and dissociating H2O molecules to generate OH.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Suresh Mamidi, Dan Na, Baeksang Yoon, Henu Sharma, Anil D. Pathak, Kisor Kumar Sahu, Dae Young Lee, Cheul-Ro Lee, Inseok Seo
Summary: Li-CO2 batteries, which utilize CO2 and have a high energy density, are hindered in practical applications due to slow kinetics and safety hazards. This study introduces a stable and highly conductive ceramic-based solid electrolyte and a metal-organic framework catalyst to improve the safety and performance of Li-CO2 batteries. The optimized Li-CO2 cell shows outstanding specific capacity and cycle life, and the post-cycling analysis reveals the degradation mechanism of the electrodes. First-principles calculations based on density functional theory are also performed to understand the interactions between the catalyst and the host electrode. This research demonstrates the potential of MOF cathode catalyst for stable operation in Li-CO2 batteries.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Ganghua Xiang, Zhihuan Qiu, Huilong Fei, Zhigang Liu, Shuangfeng Yin, Yuen Wu
Summary: In this study, a CeFeOx-supported Pt single atoms and subnanometric clusters catalyst was developed, which exhibits enhanced catalytic activity and stability for the preferential oxidation of CO in H2-rich stream through synergistic effect.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Dimitrios Chatzogiannakis, Marcus Fehse, Maria Angeles Cabanero, Natalia Romano, Ashley Black, Damien Saurel, M. Rosa Palacin, Montse Casas-Cabanas
Summary: By coupling electrochemical testing to operando synchrotron based X-ray absorption and powder diffraction experiments, blended positive electrodes consisting of LiMn2O4 spinel (LMO) and layered LiNi0.5Mn0.3Co0.2O2 (NMC) were studied to understand their redox mechanism. It was found that blending NMC with LMO can enhance energy density at high rates, with the blend containing 25% LMO showing the best performance. Testing with a special electrochemical setup revealed that the effective current load on each blend component can vary significantly from the nominal rate and also changes with SoC. Operando studies allowed monitoring of the oxidation state evolution and changes in crystal structure, in line with the expected behavior of individual components considering their electrochemical current loads.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Chiara Cementon, Daniel Dewar, Thrinathreddy Ramireddy, Michael Brennan, Alexey M. Glushenkov
Summary: This Perspective discusses the specific power and power density of lithium-ion capacitors, highlighting the fact that their power characteristics are often underestimated. Through analysis, it is found that lithium-ion capacitors can usually achieve power densities superior to electrochemical supercapacitors, making them excellent alternatives to supercapacitors.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Weihao Wang, Hao Yu, Li Ma, Youquan Zhang, Yuejiao Chen, Libao Chen, Guichao Kuang, Liangjun Zhou, Weifeng Wei
Summary: This study achieved an improved electrolyte with excellent low-temperature and high-voltage performance by regulating the Li+ solvation structure and highly concentrating it. The electrolyte exhibited outstanding oxidation potential and high ionic conductivity under low temperature and high voltage conditions, providing a promising approach for the practical application of high-voltage LIBs.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Martin Bures, Dan Gotz, Jiri Charvat, Milos Svoboda, Jaromir Pocedic, Juraj Kosek, Alexandr Zubov, Petr Mazur
Summary: Vanadium redox flow battery is a promising energy storage solution with long-term durability, non-flammability, and high overall efficiency. Researchers have developed a mathematical model to simulate the charge-discharge cycling of the battery, and found that hydraulic connection of electrolyte tanks is the most effective strategy to reduce capacity losses, achieving a 69% reduction.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
M. Rodriguez-Gomez, J. Campo, A. Orera, F. de La Fuente, J. Valenciano, H. Fricke, D. S. Hussey, Y. Chen, D. Yu, K. An, A. Larrea
Summary: In this study, we analysed the operando performance of industrial lead cells using neutron diffraction experiments. The experiments revealed the evolution of different phases in the positive electrode, showed significant inhomogeneity of phase distribution inside the electrode, and estimated the energy efficiency of the cells.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Jiawei Liu, Chenpeng Wang, Yue Yao, Hao Ye, Yinglong Liu, Yingli Liu, Xiaoru Xu, Zhicong Chen, Huazheng Yang, Gang Wu, Libin Lei, Chao Wang, Bo Liang
Summary: The study focuses on utilizing double conductive Ni-pads as anode collectors in micro-tubular solid oxide fuel cells. The simulation results show excellent performance and stability of DCNPs, and also highlight the potential applications in various fields.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Yang Wang, Kangjie Zhou, Lang Cui, Jiabing Mei, Shengnan Li, Le Li, Wei Fan, Longsheng Zhang, Tianxi Liu
Summary: This study presents a polyimide sandwiched separator (s-PIF) for improving the cycling stability of Li-metal batteries. The s-PIF separator exhibits superior mechanical property, electrolyte adsorption/retention and ion conductivity, and enables dendrite-free Li plating/stripping process.
JOURNAL OF POWER SOURCES
(2024)