Highlights in Science, Engineering and Technology
Highlights in Science, Engineering and Technology is an open access, peer-reviewed publication series published by Darcy & Roy Press. It aims to publish conference proceedings dealing with all areas of science, engineering and technology.
The Relationship Between the Molecular Structure of Surfactants and Their Efficiency in Enhancing Cleanability and Biocompatibility in Skincare Products
Surfactant molecular architecture—head-group charge/size, alkyl chain length/branching, and ethoxylation degree—dictates interfacial behavior and skin compatibility. We systematically reviewed studies (2015–2025; PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect) comparing anionic, cationic, zwitterionic, nonionic, and biosurfactants in cosmetic-relevant systems. Evidence shows (i) cleansing efficacy scales with packing parameter and critical micelle concentration (CMC), while irritation correlates with protein denaturation indices and transepidermal water loss (TEWL); (ii) anionics with C_12–C_14 chains and high zein values cleanse efficiently but raise irritation risk; (iii) amphoterics (e.g., CAPB) and nonionics (e.g., Laureth-23, APGs) reduce TEWL increase by 20–40% versus SLS at matched soil removal; (iv) biosurfactants offer superior biodegradability but face cost and batch-to-batch variability. We outline structure-guided formulation rules—optimized HLB (10–14) and mixed micelles with amphoterics—to balance cleansing and dermatological compatibility.
Surfactants, Molecular Structure, Interfacial Tension, Cosmetic Science, Biosurfactants.
Copyright (c) 2025 Highlights in Science, Engineering and Technology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Study on Catalysts and Bipolar Plates in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells for enhancing properties
Currently, proton exchange membrane fuel cells are a highly efficient clean energy conversion technology, and their performance optimisation depends on the synergistic innovation of catalysts and bipolar plates. This paper systematically studies strategies for enhancing the activity of non-platinum catalysts and the synergistic optimisation mechanism of bipolar plate flow field and materials. The design of atomically dispersed Fe-N-C sites, heteroatom doping, and the construction of porous carbon carriers to create high-density active centres significantly enhance the kinetics of the oxygen reduction reaction. The Fe-N-C system can achieve a half-wave potential of 0.78–0.92 V in acidic media, and its peak power density is 890 mW/cm², approaching the level of commercial Pt/C. The new square baffle channel and symmetrical serpentine flow field can increase power density by 12.1–22.9%, while the metal foam structure reduces reactant consumption by 30%. CrAlCN and TiZrC coatings reduce interfacial contact resistance to 1.60 mΩ·cm², achieve corrosion current density at the 10-8 A·cm-2 level, and attain a water contact angle of 121.7°±1.0°. Research indicates that regulating the electronic state of non-platinum catalyst active sites and optimising mass transfer and electrical conductivity in bipolar plates are important to overcoming performance bottlenecks in PEMFCs, providing theoretical support and engineering pathways for low-platinum fuel cell technology.
PEMFC, Non-platinum catalysts, Bipolar plate optimization, Flow field configuration.
Optimization of Gas Hydrate Well Placement Based on K-Means Cluster Analysis and Genetic Algorithm
Natural gas hydrate, also known as "combustible ice", is an efficient and clean backup energy source. The purpose of this study is to conduct a comprehensive quantitative assessment of natural gas hydrate resources in a sea area, and to propose a site selection plan for additional wells. Firstly, this paper obtains the geological data of 14 exploration wells in this sea area, establishes a K-means clustering model, and derives the clustering of well data into three different regions, and the distribution range of natural gas hydrate is obtained by calculating the location of the center of each cluster. Secondly, combined with GIS tools, spatial interpolation analysis was carried out to generate the spatial distribution map of each parameter (effective thickness, porosity, hydrate saturation) in the study area. Finally, this study proposed to add five more wells in the region, and the optimal spatial coordinates of the five well locations were obtained by constructing a multi-objective optimization model using a genetic algorithm. This study creatively proposes a dual-stage optimization model integrating K-means clustering and genetic algorithms, which not only addresses the gap in comprehensive decision-making frameworks but also enhances exploration accuracy in complex marine environments and promotes the commercialization development process.
Exploration wells, well placement optimization, K-means clustering, genetic algorithm.
Functional Analysis of Fvcry1 Reveals the Mechanism of Blue Light in Regulating Vegetative-Reproductive Growth Balance of Strawberry
Strawberry is an ideal crop for vertical farming due to its tiny size and high commercial value of fruit. Even though the LED has been widely used as artificial light resource for cultivation of strawberry in vertical farm. The molecular mechanism of blue light spectrums regulating development of strawberry remain to be elucidated. There are two light receptors, including FvCRY1 and FvCRY2, initiate blue light signal in strawberry. To reveal the mechanism of blue light in regulating vegetative-reproductive growth balance of strawberry. We utilized the RNAi method to knock down the expression level of FvCRY1 in wild strawberry (Fragaria vesca ‘Fin56’). The phenotype of RNAi lines comparing the wild type lines was performed. The vegetative growth was significantly promoted displaying an increasing numbers and lengths of stolons in RNAi lines. The B-box transcription factors (BBX) play important roles in light signal transduction and regulation of flowering time. We further analyzed the gene expression of FvBBXs in RNAi lines using qRT-PCR. The FvCO, which has been demonstrated to be a critical regulator in vegetative-reproductive growth balance, was significant repressed in gene expression level. Besides, two new BBX genes, including FvBBX19a and FvBBX28c, were promoted in RNA lines. Collectively, our results shed light on the role of blue light signaling mediated by FvCRY1 in regulating the balance of vegetative-reproductive growth in strawberry.
Blue light, B-box proteins, Cryptochromes, Flowering time, Photobiology, Strawberry, Vegetative-Reproductive Growth Balance.
Research Progress on the Application of Biochar in Adsorbing Organic Pollutants from Wastewater
With the rapid development of industrial activities, the amount of organic pollutants in wastewater has increased significantly. These pollutants have a profoundly detrimental impact on both the environment and human health. Biochar has shown great potential in removing organic pollutants because of its porous structure and active surface groups. This paper reviews the main methods for preparing biochar, the ways to improve its properties, the mechanisms behind the adsorption process, and its application in treating polluted water. The future development of biochar in this field is also discussed.
Biochar, organic pollutants, adsorption, wastewater treatment, modification.
Antistatic Performance and Improvement Strategies of Polymers
Electrostatic discharge poses significant threats to industrial production. These hazards include explosions, electronic malfunctions and equipment damage. In order to address the issue, this study focuses on mechanisms of formation of electrostatic discharge, how antistatic properties work, and feasible tactics to enhance antistatic performances of polymers. This study focuses on the electrostatic electrification mechanism which can be quantified using tunneling effect and core antistatic mechanisms including hydrophilic conductive mechanism alongside conductive network mechanism. Furthermore, related methods tackling this problem including but not limited to conductive fillers blending with bulk polymers are discussed. Electrostatic electrification mechanism is explained in terms of electron transfer, ion transfer and mechanical reactions plus material transfer. Key mechanisms, especially hydrophilic conductive mechanism and conductive network mechanism, contribute to enhanced antistatic properties of materials. This article discusses the two main solutions in detail, analyzing their pros and cons to show their effectiveness and customizable modification. Meanwhile, the challenges in durability and other aspects are also discussed. This provides valuable insights into industrializing efficient and green new means of improving antistatic properties.
Polymers, antistatic, conductive fillers.
Modification Strategies and Applications of Poly (ethylene oxide)-Based Solid-State Electrolytes
The need for high-performance power batteries in the new energy vehicle sector is growing as a result of the global energy transition and the pursuit of carbon neutrality targets. Because organic electrolytes are inherently flammable and prone to leak, conventional lithium-ion batteries with liquid electrolytes have serious safety and energy density issues. All-solid-state lithium batteries are seen as a breakthrough for next-generation energy storage technologies because of their inherent safety and potentially high energy density. Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) have garnered a lot of interest as a crucial element among these. With its distinct molecular structure, remarkable ability to dissociate lithium salts, and outstanding processability, poly (ethylene oxide) (PEO) has become the most promising solid polymer electrolyte material for industrialization. However, the limited electrochemical stability window, low room-temperature ionic conductivity, and inadequate mechanical strength of PEO-based electrolytes prevent their widespread use. With a focus on three main areas—improving mechanical strength, expanding the electrochemical window, and enhancing ionic conductivity, this review highlights the state of research on PEO-based solid polymer electrolytes, evaluates their benefits and drawbacks, and suggest ways to modify them to overcome these obstacles. Lastly, the development tendencies of solid polymer electrolytes based on PEO are examined.
All-solid-state batteries, solid polymer electrolytes, poly (ethylene oxide), modification strategies.
Synthetic Strategies in the Preparation of Osimertinib
Osimertinib is an oral small molecule epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor and is mainly used clinically for the treatment of lung cancer. Lung cancer, as the cancer with the highest incidence and mortality rate in China, has a huge market demand for therapeutic drugs. However, the traditional synthetic process route has a low yield and serious pollution. In recent years, the development of new synthetic routes has become a research hotspot. This article mainly focuses on the synthesis of Osimertinib, with an emphasis on three aspects. This study examines the different synthetic routes of Osimertinib, comparing their efficiency and applicability. It also explores the novel catalysts which can be used in the synthesis process. Moreover, the derivatives of Osimertinib are also explored. By evaluating each synthetic route, this work aims to offer a strategic roadmap for future research endeavors and provide new ideas for the research on the synthetic process of this drug.
Osimertinib, organic synthesis, catalyst.
Nano-filler Reinforced Phase Change Composites: A Pathway to Next-Generation Thermal Regulation
The rapid development of new energy vehicles and the increasing demand for high-performance batteries highlighted the urgency of efficient battery heat dissipation. This paper aimed to systematically study how various nano-fillers, including metal-based, metal oxide-based and emerging nanomaterium-based NePCM, enhanced the heat dissipation performance of phase change materials. Through in-depth research on the application cases of different NePCM in the thermal management system of new energy vehicle batteries, and a comprehensive comparative analysis of their thermal conductivity, stability and cost-effectiveness, the practical application effect was evaluated. The results showed that each type of nanomaterials had unique advantages: metal-based fillers exhibited high thermal conductivity, while emerging nanomaterials demonstrated potential for multifunctional performance. However, they also faced challenges such as cost and compatibility. Based on these findings, practical suggestions for optimizing the application of NePCM were proposed, which could guide the development of more efficient battery heat dissipation solutions.
new energy vehicles, NePCM, battery heat dissipationr.
The Application of Nanomaterials in Lithium-ion Battery Separators
With the rapid development of electric vehicles and smart grids, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), as key energy storage devices, face the demand for improved safety. The traditional polyolefin separator has problems like insufficient thermal stability and poor interfacial compatibility, which have become a technical bottleneck for the development of high-energy-density batteries. This study aims to enhance the thermal stability and electrochemical performance of LIBs separators through nanomaterial modification strategies, providing solutions for developing next-generation high-safety batteries. This paper first introduces the basic functional requirements of LIBs separators and the performance limitations of traditional materials, focusing on the key issues of the shrinking behavior of PE/PP separators at high temperatures and their electrolyte wettability. Then, it explores three types of nano-modification methods: PVDF-based materials improving interfacial properties through polar groups, ceramic nano-coatings significantly enhancing thermal stability, and metal nanomaterials optimizing ion transport kinetics (with a 4C capacity retention rate of 84.3%). Finally, it analyzes the relationship between nanostructure parameters and the macro-properties of separators and reveals the mechanism of uniform Li⁺ deposition through synchronous radiation techniques. This research provides theoretical guidance for the design of high-safety LIBs separators. It has essential reference significance for the development of new energy storage devices such as solid-state batteries.
Lithium-ion batteries, separator, nanomaterials.
Nanostructured Frontiers: Enabling Next-Generation All-Solid-State Lithium-Ion Batteries
There is a growing need for energy storage solutions with high energy density and high safety due to the quick growth of smart grids and electric cars. Although traditional liquid lithium-ion batteries have been commercialized, their energy density is close to the theoretical limit, and there are safety hazards such as electrolyte leakage and flammability. In contrast, all-solid-state lithium-ion-batteries (ASSLIBs) with non-combustible solid electrolytes can completely eliminate the risk of thermal runaway, making them the core direction of the next-generation energy storage technology. However, issues including the development of lithium dendrites and the high interfacial impedance between the solid electrolyte and the electrode have made it difficult to commercialize. This paper systematically reviews the key roles and design strategies of nanomaterials in the positive electrode, negative electrode and electrolyte of ASSLIBs. Through size effect, high specific surface area and controllable interface characteristics, nanomaterials provide innovative solutions for optimizing ion transport, suppressing volume expansion and enhancing interface stability. Research shows that nanotechnology significantly enhances the energy density, cycle life and fast charging performance of ASSLIBs through material nanoscale, composite structure design and interface optimization. In the future, through the integration of multi-disciplinary technologies and innovation in preparation processes, nanomaterials are expected to promote the commercial application of ASSLIBs in fields such as electric vehicles, and become the core technology of high-safety, high-energy-density energy storage technologies of the future.
All-solid-state lithium-ion-batteries; nanomaterial; nanotechnology.
Design Strategies of Silicon-Based Anode Composites for Enhanced Performance of Lithium-Ion Batteries
Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have emerged as a key energy storage technology as the world rapidly moves toward renewable energy and electric transportation. The rather limited capacity (372 mAh/g) of the conventional graphite anodes hinders its application in high-energy-density and fast-charging systems. Silicon-based anode materials, which possess an ultrahigh theoretical capacity (4200 mAh/g) and are rich in resources, offer a promising alternative. Nevertheless, the severe volume expansion of more than 300 % during cycling has brought structural degradation and a rapid decline in capacity. This review focuses on the design of silicon-based composite anode materials, methodically reviewing current developments in ceramic-reinforced systems like Si/TiN hybrids, carbon-based composites including core-shell structures and porous networks, and nanostructures. Studies show that carbon frameworks can effectively cushion volume changes and boost conductivity, while ceramic phases enhance the interfacial stability and restrain electrolyte decomposition. Despite notable improvements in cycle life and energy density, challenges still remain in terms of scalable manufacturing costs and complex synthesis procedures. Future research needs to place emphasis on balancing the silicon content with stability, working on the development of cost-effective synthesis methods, and devising multifunctional interfaces. Tackling these issues will speed up the commercialization of high-energy, long-cycle-life LIBs, thereby pushing forward the global endeavors towards carbon neutrality.
Lithium-ion battery; silicon-based anode material; composite material.
Research and Reflections on the Safety of Automotive Lithium-ion Batteries
This article provides a comprehensive analysis of safety challenges in lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles (EVs) and proposes mitigation strategies to address these risks. Li-ion batteries, while pivotal for EVs adoption due to their high energy density and efficiency, face critical safety concerns such as thermal runaway, mechanical deformation, and electrochemical instability. Thermal runaway—triggered by mechanical collisions, electrical abuse (overcharging, over-discharging), or internal short circuits—remains the most severe hazard, often leading to fires or explosions through exothermic reactions, electrolyte decomposition, and gas release. Mechanical failures, including structural damage from crashes or vibration, exacerbate risks by inducing internal short circuits and heat accumulation. Current safety measures emphasize advanced battery management systems (BMS) for real-time voltage, current, and thermal monitoring, alongside thermal management systems (TMS) utilizing liquid cooling, phase-change materials, and micro heat pipe arrays to enhance heat dissipation. Material innovations, such as flame-retardant additives, solid-state electrolytes, and silicon anodes, aim to reduce flammability and dendrite formation. Structural protections, including reinforced housings and optimized cell-to-pack designs, further improve crash resilience. Future directions highlight AI-driven fault prediction, in-situ diagnostics, solid-state battery development, and sustainable recycling methods. This study underscores the necessity of multidisciplinary approaches integrating electrochemistry, mechanical engineering, and data analytics to advance battery safety, ensuring EVs meet rigorous reliability standards and foster public confidence in sustainable transportation.
battery safety, lithium battery, electric vehicles.
Review of Carbon High Storage Efficient Material in Hydrogen Storage for New Energy Vehicles
With the rapid development of new energy vehicles, research on efficient hydrogen storage materials has become a top priority. This article reviews the hydrogen storage mechanisms, performance, challenges, and future trends of three materials: graphene, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). Graphene theoretically boasts an extremely high specific surface area and hydrogen storage capacity, but it is limited by the weak van der Waals forces among the material and hydrogen molecules; CNTs achieve ideal functionalities through functionalization at a low cost, but they have poor solubility, and the modified structures may have defects; porous structure of MOFs could be designed, showing great potential as hydrogen storage materials at room temperature, but they have very poor stability and are also expensive. Combining these materials, retaining their advantages while addressing their shortcomings might be an excellent solution.
Application of Nano-Silicon Based Materials in Anode of Lithium Ion Battery
As a fundamental element in advanced energy storage systems, the characteristics of lithium-ion battery anode materials critically determine overall cell performance. While conventional graphite anodes with limited theoretical capacity (372 mAh/g) struggle to meet high energy density requirements, silicon-based materials boasting an exceptional theoretical capacity of 4200 mAh/g have emerged as promising alternatives. Nevertheless, practical implementation faces significant challenges due to structural degradation and interface instability induced by over 300% volumetric expansion during lithiation/delithiation processes. This review comprehensively examines nano-engineered silicon materials for anode applications, with particular emphasis on three principal configurations: silicon nanoparticles (Si-NPs), silicon nanowires (Si-NWs), and porous/networked silicon structures-analyzing their defining characteristics, fundamental properties, and recent technological advancements. Comparative studies of silicon nanomaterials with distinct microstructures reveal their respective merits and limitations. Experimental evidence demonstrates that nanostructuring effectively enhances electrochemical performance. Although current research remains confined to laboratory-scale exploration, these findings establish valuable technical foundations for future commercial-scale production.
lithium-ion battery, anode, nanotechnology, Si-NPs, Si-NWs, porous/networked silicon.
Metal-Organic Frameworks for Next-Generation Lithium-Based Batteries: From Molecular Design to System Integration
The growing need for green power, particularly for electric vehicle, is driving up the need for high-energy-dense, safe, and life-extending lithium batteries. But the problem of the growth of lithium dendrites, the formation of the polysulfides, and the instability of the interface have hampered their actual use. Metal organic frameworks (MOFs), which are characterized by varying porosity, rich activation sites, and a variety of structures, have been proposed as a transition material to overcome those constraints. In this paper, MOFs are used in the next generation lithium-ion batteries, including lithium, lithium sulfur, and lithium air, with emphasis on their functions as electrodes, separators, and electrolyte modifiers. MOFs enhance ion transport uniformity, suppress dendrite formation, and improve redox kinetics through customized pore structures and conductive frameworks. The composite materials and derived materials derived from MOFs further demonstrate excellent cycling stability and high capacity. Despite the progress made, scalability and cost remain challenges, thus requiring strategies such as low-cost metal substitution and simplified synthesis. Future efforts should prioritize improving conductivity, mechanical robustness, and compatibility with industrial processes. By utilizing the multifunctionality and structural adaptability of MOFs, this work highlights their potential to achieve safer and higher performance lithium batteries, accelerating the transition to sustainable electric vehicle technology.
Metal-organic frameworks, lithium-based batteries, structural design, dendrite suppression, energy storage.
Nanostructured Material Engineering for Advanced Automotive Lightweight Upgrade
Driven by the dual imperatives of environmental protection and performance enhancement, the automotive industry has introduced new priorities for lightweight design in new energy vehicles. Automotive lightweight materials face the main challenges of uniform dispersion of the nanoparticles, scalable and economical manufacturing processes, dependable and lasting multi-material integration, and durability under service conditions. This review investigates the use of nanomaterials in lightweighting automotive applications by surveying the four main classes of carbon, ceramic, silicon, and polymer nanocomposites and evaluating their synthesis routes, interfacial engineering, and performance metrics. A mixed approach using literature review and specific case studies was applied to compare the mechanical properties, dispersion stability, and scale up difficulties of different nanofiller systems. Significant works on carbon nanotube and graphene reinforced carbon fibre composites, alumina nanocoated, high aspect ratio silicon carbide nanowires, and nano-clay enhanced polymers were studied to calculate mass loss, stiffness loss, and loss of durability in the body, chassis, and interior components. The obtained results revealed that the incorporation of nanomaterials enables component weight reductions of 10 to 60% while continuing to provide good structural strength, stiffness, and corrosion or wear resistance. Problems with nanoscale particle agglomeration, economic mass production, and safety standardization were noted. The review provided final remarks on optimizing dispersion techniques to minimize material and process expenditure, effectively accelerating the use of nanotechnology in automotive.
Automotive lightweighting, nanomaterials, conventional lightweight materials, automotive applications.
Sustainable Recycling Technologies of Lithium-Ion Battery Cathode: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives
With the rapid development of electric vehicles and energy storage systems, the amount of waste lithium-ion batteries has increased sharply, and the demand for recycling has become increasingly urgent. This paper focuses on the green recycling technology of lithium-ion battery cathode materials, aiming to achieve resource recycling and environmental sustainability. This review analyzes the characteristics of cathode materials such as LiCoO2, NMC, LiFePO4 and LiMn2O4 and their influence on the applicability of recycling methods. The principles, efficiency and scale-up potential of green recycling technologies, such as solid-state sintering, hydrothermal method, molten salt treatment and electrochemical method, are discussed in detail. These technologies recover key metals such as lithium, cobalt and nickel in a low-impact manner while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and secondary pollution. It was shown that green recycling technology has advantages in material purity and energy efficiency, but energy consumption and cost need to be optimized to achieve scale. In the future, through technological innovation and policy support, lithium-ion battery recycling can help the development of the circular economy and provide guarantees for sustainable energy.
Lithium-ion battery recycling; green recycling technologies; cathode materials; circular economy.
Review Application of Low-Temperature Copper Sintering in New Energy Vehicle Power Devices
The growing demand for reliable and efficient power electronics in new energy vehicles (NEVs) has driven the development of advanced packaging solutions. This study examines three copper sintering techniques, micro-sized, nano-sized, and bimodal hybrid sintering, as alternatives to conventional soldering methods. Micro-sized sintering offers cost advantages and process stability but requires high pressures for effective bonding. Nano-sized sintering enables superior joint strength and densification at lower temperatures but faces challenges in scalability and oxidation control. Bimodal sintering presents a balanced approach, combining the benefits of both micro- and nano-sized particles to achieve robust interconnects without excessive costs. By analyzing the mechanisms and trade-offs of each method, this research provides insights into optimizing copper sintering for high-performance NEV power modules, supporting the transition toward sustainable and durable packaging solutions.
Copper sintering; die-attachment, review.
Metal–Organic Framework Materials for High‐Capacity and Thermal‐Regulating Lithium‐Ion Battery Anodes
Metal–organic framework (MOF)‐based anodes offer a unique combination of high surface area, tunable porosity, and uniformly distributed active sites. This enables rapid lithium‐ion diffusion and robust accommodation of volumetric changes during cycling. Among these materials, zeolite‐type imidazolate frameworks (ZIFs) distinguish themselves through their zeolite‐like topology, ultra‐porosity, and exceptional thermal and chemical stability, providing a rigid yet open scaffold for reversible lithium storage. Likewise, MIL‐type frameworks leverage flexible metal–carboxylate linkages to form stable solid‐electrolyte interface layers, yielding high Coulombic efficiency and prolonged cycle life. However, the practical implementation of pristine MOF anodes is hampered by inherently low electronic conductivity, framework degradation via repeated ligand coordination, and cost‐intensive, multi‐step synthesis protocols. To address these challenges, recent strategies include thermal carbonization to generate metal‑oxide/carbon composites, hybridization with conductive networks such as graphene or carbon nanotubes to create core–shell or three‐dimensional architectures, and heteroatom doping to introduce additional redox‐active centers. Concurrently, simplified, room‐temperature or microwave‐assisted one‐pot syntheses using inexpensive precursors promise to enhance scalability and reduce environmental impact. By surmounting conductivity, stability, and manufacturability issues, MOF‐derived anodes hold significant promise for next‐generation lithium‐ion batteries, offering improvements in energy density, rate capability, and thermal safety critical for electric vehicles and grid‐scale energy storage.
Metal–Organic Framework; Lithium‐Ion Battery; Anodes; review.
Research Progress of Bismuth-Based Ceramic Materials in Anodes of Sodium-Ion Batteries
With the growing demand for sustainable energy storage, sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) have emerged as a promising alternative to lithium-ion batteries due to sodium's abundant resources and low cost. This review focuses on bismuth (Bi)-based ceramic materials—bismuth vanadate (BiVO₄), bismuth molybdate (Bi₂MoO₆), and bismuth oxide (Bi₂O₃)—as anode materials for SIBs. These materials offer high theoretical capacities (352-386 mAh/g) via reversible alloying reactions, with Bi₂MoO₆ additionally leveraging Mo⁶⁺/Mo⁴⁺ redox reactions for enhanced capacity (>420 mAh/g). Key challenges, including poor conductivity (<10⁻⁴ S/cm) and severe volume expansion (180%-220%), are addressed through composite strategies, such as carbon coating and three-dimensional conductive networks (e.g., BiVO₄/carbon composites achieving >80% capacity retention after 200 cycles). Structural design, such as layered frameworks in Bi₂MoO₆ (0.38 nm interlayer spacing) and cubic fluorite structures in Bi₂O₃, optimizes ion diffusion and mechanical stability. Despite progress, issues like interlayer peeling in Bi₂MoO₆ and high-cost carbon nanotubes in Bi₂O₃ remain. Future research should prioritize multi-scale structural engineering (e.g., yolk-shell architectures), electrolyte optimization, and low-cost synthesis (e.g., biomass-derived carbon) to unlock the commercial potential of Bi-based ceramics for large-scale energy storage and low-end power applications.
bismuth vanadate; bismuth molybdate; bismuth oxide; sodium-ion batteries; anode materials.
The Application of Carbon Nanotube Electrode in Lithium-Ion Batteries
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have emerged as promising materials for enhancing lithium-ion battery (LIB) performance due to their exceptional electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, and unique nanostructure. This review examines the application of CNTs in both anode and cathode materials, highlighting their advantages and existing challenges. In anodes, single-walled CNTs (SWCNTs) effectively mitigate silicon particle volume expansion while providing high conductivity, enabling capacities up to ~3200 mAh·g-¹. Multi-walled CNTs (MWCNTs) serve as robust scaffolds for silicon coatings, improving coulombic efficiency from 12% to 94% after 10 cycles. However, issues such as irreversible lithium loss, SEI formation, and high production costs persist. For cathodes, annealed MWCNTs form 3D conductive networks that enhance LiNi0.5Co0.2 Mn0.3O2 (NCM) performance, achieving 173.16 mAh·g-¹ at 0.1 C and 95.8% capacity retention after 100 cycles. Nevertheless, energy-intensive annealing and dispersion challenges hinder scalability. Key limitations include defect-related side reactions, van der Waals aggregation, and electrolyte decomposition. Future research should focus on hybrid architectures, cost-effective synthesis, and scalable manufacturing to realize CNTs' full potential in next-generation LIBs.
Performance Improvement of Nanotechnology in Cathode Materials
The development of battery technology is in full swing. As an important part of battery structure, cathode material is related to a series of electrochemical properties such as battery safety, life, and specific capacity. According to the development of cathode materials, the bottleneck of battery performance caused by various properties of the material itself needs to be broken through. In many research directions of battery modification, the nano crystallization of cathode materials has the advantages of shorter ion transport distance, more active sites, more stable material structure and physical and chemical properties by virtue of its own structural advantages, which realizes more efficient battery electrochemical performance and solves some technical bottlenecks that traditional cathode materials cannot overcome. Therefore, this paper summarizes the improvement of cathode materials and battery performance brought by the multi-dimensional application of nanotechnology, and briefly expounds the prospects and challenges of nano-cathode materials.
Nanotechnology; cathode material; electrochemical performance.
A Review on The Application of Nano-Coated Si-Based Anode Materials for Lithium-Ion Batteries
This study examines three nano-coatings (carbon, metal, metal oxide) for silicon-based anodes. Those technologies were compared and the advantages and disadvantages were analysized. Nano-carbon coatings boost conductivity and reduce silicon’s volume expansion but struggle under fast charging. Nano-metal coatings strengthen electrodes and block lithium dendrites but involve costly/toxic processes. Nano-metal oxide coatings reduce side reactions but face complex steps and delamination. All coatings share issues like weak bonding and high costs. Experiments suggest future focus on eco-friendly methods (e.g., water-based solvents), stronger bonding (e.g., chemical grafting), and scalable production. These upgrades could advance silicon anodes in fast-charging LIBs and EVs, supporting clean energy goals.
Nano-coating Metarial, Coating Process Optimization.
Research Progress of Covalent Organic Framework (COF) Based Anode Materials in Metal Ion Batteries
Covalent organic frameworks (COFs), characterized by structural designability, ordered porosity, and tunable redox activity, have emerged as promising electrode materials for metal-ion batteries (LIBs, SIBs, and ZIBs). This review summarizes the progress and challenges of COFs in lithium-, sodium-, and zinc-ion batteries. In LIBs, COFs like TRO-BT-COF offer high capacity via redox-active sites (e.g., C=O, C=N), but suffer from low conductivity, structural rigidity, and complex synthesis. For SIBs, materials such as BCOF-1 exhibit pseudocapacitive behavior and ordered pores, yet face sodium-ion induced swelling and redox site complexity. In ZIBs, COFs like HqTp-COF enable Zn²⁺ storage through coordination with functional groups, but hydrolytic instability in aqueous electrolytes and inefficient ion desolvation limit performance. Key challenges across systems include poor electrical conductivity, electrolyte compatibility issues, and scalability of synthesis. Potential solutions involve integrating conductive additives, engineering flexible/hierarchical structures, and developing hydrophobic or dynamic covalent frameworks. By addressing these limitations, COFs could unlock high-performance, sustainable metal-ion batteries for next-generation energy storage.
Covalent organic frameworks; Lithium-ion batteries; Sodium-ion batteries; Zinc-ion batteries; Electrode materials.
Development Status of Sintering of Silver Particles of Different Scales
Power devices developed based on emerging wide bandgap semiconductors have higher requirements for packaging materials, which need to be able to work in more demanding environments. Silver particle sintered materials could be sintered at lower temperatures, work at higher temperatures, and have excellent electrical and mechanical properties, meeting the requirements of new power devices. This article conducts a thorough analysis of the preparation of raw materials, sintering methods, and product properties for sintering silver particles of different sizes through a search of relevant literature. Combined with the current market requirements for packaging materials, the advantages, current problems, and future development trends of sintering silver particles at the nanometer, micrometer, and micro nano composite levels are explored, providing reference for further research and application of silver particle sintering.
Silver sintering; Die-attachment; review.
Research On the Application and The Interface Problem of Solid-State Batteries
Solid-state electrolytes (SSEs), the substitutes of liquid electrolytes which can create greater safety by preventing the penetration from lithium dendrites. However, there are still some defects, as the solid-solid contact may cause interface problems where gaps are formed between electrodes and SSEs. The interface issue can harshly affect the performance of batteries such as overpotential, electrical conductivity, and cycle life. By tackling such issues, traditional lithium-ion batteries can be completely replaced by solid-state batteries due to the outstanding performance of efficiency and capacity. So the solutions are listed by classifying SSEs into different types This essay provides new perspectives and ideas for the researchers by reviewing research on solid-state batteries.
lithium-ion batteries, solid state electrolytes, interface problem.
Classification Of Polymer Electrolytes and Their Applications in Batteries
The escalating demand for safer energy storage systems with enhanced energy density has positioned polymer electrolytes as a pivotal alternative to conventional liquid electrolytes, which suffer from fundamental drawbacks including flammability and electrolyte leakage. Owing to their intrinsic solid-state characteristics, mechanical flexibility, and tunable physicochemical properties, these electrolytes have emerged as essential constituents for developing next-generation high-safety, high-energy-density batteries with improved thermal stability. The article focuses on gel polymer electrolytes, all-solid-state polymer electrolytes, and composite polymer electrolytes. It analyzes their composition, ion-conduction mechanisms, and optimization strategies, with a particular emphasis on the interrelationships among key performance indicators such as ionic conductivity, mechanical strength, lithium-ion migration number, and chemical stability. Additionally, it reviews the practical application progress of polymer electrolytes in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), zinc-ion batteries, and fuel cells, highlighting the current research challenges that need to be overcome, including low room-temperature conductivity, interface stability, and cost control. This study provides a theoretical basis for advancing multifunctional solid-state batteries and scalable electrolyte material applications.
Classification of polymer electrolytes; New energy; State batteries.
Research On the Discharge Mechanism of Lithium-Ion Battery Negative Electrode
The advancement of high-efficiency lithium-ion cells constitutes a critical driver in facilitating the transition toward sustainable energy systems, and the research on cathode materials is of great significance as the core components affecting battery capacity, magnification performance and cycle life. Although a variety of cathode material systems have been developed, including carbon-based materials, alloy materials, metal oxide and new multi-functional materials, they generally have problems such as difficult to consider the capacity and stability, insufficient conductivity, fierce volume expansion or complex interface reaction, which severely restrict the actual application performance. Based on the analysis on the mechanism of lithium storage of cathode materials, the structure evolution characteristics and ion migration behavior of different material systems in the charge and discharge process are systematically analyzed, and the differences of their electrochemical performance are compared. The key factors affecting the lithium storage performance are further discussed, aiming to provide theoretical support and technical ideas for the design and optimization of high-performance cathode materials.
Lithium-ion battery, Material of negative electrode, Lithium storage mechanism, Structure evolution, Cyclic stability.
Current Approaches Enhancing the Elimination of Dendrite Formation in Batteries
Dendrite formation poses a substantial challenge to the advancement of high-energy-density batteries, especially those utilizing lithium-metal anodes. Irregular metal deposition throughout successive electrochemical cycles causes acicular dendrite formation, causing internal short circuits, diminished capacity, and significant safety risks, including thermal runaway. This paper analyses the essential mechanisms of dendrite nucleation and development, their implications in lithium-metal, lithium-sulfur, lithium-air, and sodium-based batteries, and contemporary tactics for suppression. Strategies encompass the development of sophisticated electrolytes, the alteration of anode surfaces, and the use of nanotechnology to improve separator efficacy and solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) stability. Along with the recent significant progress exhibiting feasible approaches towards dendrite growth, obstacles concerning material expenses, manufacturability and long-term stability persist. Emerging technologies like hybrid electrolytes and real-time diagnostics are crucial to the next generation of safe and efficient energy storage systems.