Academic Research Journal•2026•DOI: 10.26599/NR.2026.94908737
Electrocatalytic water splitting for hydrogen production is a key pathway for sustainable green hydrogen. However, freshwater scarcity limits large-scale application, necessitating efficient and stable catalysts for complex water sources such as seawater and wastewater. Here, we report a FeRu bimetallic nanocatalyst (FeRu-ERBC) constructed by anchoring FeRu composite nanoparticles on engineered biomass-derived carbon from Equisetum ramosissimum Desf. FeRu-ERBC exhibits excellent hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance in alkaline, seawater, and chemical wastewater environments, achieving an overpotential of only 22.7 mV at 10 mA·cm−2 in 1.0 M KOH and maintaining stability for over 120 h. Structural characterization and density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that the carbon support provides high specific surface area and hierarchical pores for mass transport, and critically promotes atomic-level substitution of Fe by Ru, forming a tightly coupled Fe–Ru interface. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and in situ spectroscopy confirm electron transfer from Fe to Ru, creating a 'Feδ+–Ruδ−' synergistic active center. This interface regulates the surface interfacial water network, enhancing overall reaction kinetics. This work provides a new strategy for designing Ru-based catalysts with interfacial electronic regulation for real-world water environments, highlighting the crucial role of biomass-derived carbon supports in advancing green hydrogen technology.
Journal of Semiconductors (半导体学报 - 中国科学院半导体研究所)•2026•DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26020013
Polarization is a defining lever of wurtzite (WZ) III-nitrides, enabling two-dimensional electron and hole gases, polarization doping, and electrostatic control in GaN-based power, RF, and optoelectronic devices. Recent advances, especially ferroelectric nitrides, have pushed polarization to unprecedented magnitudes, elevating it from a static constant to an engineering knob. However, the field has long suffered from ambiguity in polarization magnitude, orientation, and mapping to crystal polarity due to inconsistent sign conventions and reference choices. This mini-review highlights recent progress that rethinks and unifies polarization in wurtzite III-nitrides. It discusses how experimental re-benchmarking of giant polarization is reshaping understanding and enabling predictive polarization engineering. Key issues include the dependence of polarization sign on coordinate choice and magnitude on reference structure, as exemplified by Bernardini et al.'s 1997 predictions (values below 0.1 C/m², downward orientation for metal-polar) and Dreyer et al.'s 2016 refinements. The review emphasizes that consistent benchmarking under a unified convention makes interface bound charge density a quantitative design knob rather than an adjustable fitting parameter, benefiting classical HEMTs, N-polar stacks, polarization-doped structures, and ferroelectric nitride integration. A pragmatic roadmap is proposed: reports should state polarity, sign convention, and reference explicitly to ensure portability and falsifiability.
Int. Journal of Mining Science and Technology (采矿与安全工程)•2026•DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2026.02.008
In deep hard rock mining, high confining pressure inhibits tensile failure, leading to low efficiency and severe tool wear in conventional mechanical rock breaking methods. To solve this problem, we propose a Controllable Free Surface Induced Tensile-Shear Collaborative Fracturing (CFS-TSCF) method. The method pre-forms an engineered controllable free surface (CFS) to reconfigure the local stress field, enabling a specialized device (FIPFD) to apply directional tensile-shear loads for low-energy breaking. A multi-scale approach integrating lab AE tests, DEM simulations, and field verification investigated the fracture mechanism and performance. Results revealed a predominantly tensile-driven (>50%) process. The CFS transforms the rock's triaxial compression into a specific stress path. This path, dominated by directional tension and constrained by lateral compression, guides the fracture along a low-energy channel. This also dictates the micro-mechanism's evolution from central quasi-tensile to peripheral tensile-shear failure. Field trials in hard rock (>200 MPa UCS) validated the method, demonstrating controllable, blocky spalling and achieving an average mining efficiency of 52.03 t/h. This research validates the CFS-TSCF method, offering a new technical paradigm for safe, efficient, continuous hard rock mining.
China Foundry (中国铸造 - 英文版)•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s41230-025-4253-4
In the casting process of 1060 industrial pure aluminum, the inclusions in the aluminum melt significantly affect the product quality. In this study, the influence of refining temperature and the composition of salt fluxes on the purification effect and mechanical properties of aluminum melt was investigated. The results indicate that lower refining temperatures and modified salt fluxes can effectively enhance the cleanliness of the aluminum melt. As the refining temperature increases, the large inclusions gradually increase. The addition of 16wt.% Na3AlF6 can dissolve and break up Al2O3 inclusions, facilitating the separation of the aluminum melt and aluminum slag. The addition of 16wt.% Na3AlF6 and 2wt.% CaCO3 to the basic salt fluxes enables gas refinement, thereby further improving the cleanliness of the aluminum melt. Under the refining condition of 37wt.% NaCl-47wt.% KCl-16wt.% Na3AlF3-2wt.% CaCO3 at 740 °C, better cleanliness and mechanical properties were obtained. The cleanliness and yield strength are approximately 99.99928% and 71.46 MPa, respectively. This work can offer valuable reference and theoretical insights for future research.
Journal of Central South University•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s11771-026-6295-1
Affected by the depositional environment, coal seams in the weathered and oxidized zone and their overlying strata are characterized by developed fractures and poor self-stability, leading to difficulties in roadway and working face roof management. This paper analyzes the failure characteristics of coal-rock masses in this zone. Combined with model tests and numerical simulation methods, it investigates the stress distribution status, deformation-failure characteristics, and movement-fracture laws of the overlying strata in a fully mechanized top-coal caving working face. The results indicate: (1) Weathering and oxidation significantly degrade strength and increase plastic deformation in coal-rock masses; (2) Under mining-induced disturbance, overlying strata stress is released from the in-situ state and sharply reduced, forming stress concentration zones ahead of the coal wall and at face ends; (3) During mining, fractures propagating upwards from the coal wall trigger rib spalling and top-coal collapse, forming combined cantilever and articulated rock beam structures. The overlying strata sequentially undergo four deformation-failure stages: "bed separation, immediate roof fracture, main roof fracture, and high-level strata collapse". The research findings can provide a basis for the safe mining of fully mechanized top-coal caving faces in weathered and oxidized coal.
Journal of Central South University•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s11771-026-6260-z
The mechanism of SiC preparation via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of the CH3SiCl3(MTS)-H2 system remains unclear. This article integrates thermodynamic calculations, fluid dynamics simulations, and experimental validations to enable a synergistic analysis from thermodynamic equilibrium predictions to fluid dynamics-based dynamic modeling. The results systematically reveal the effects of process parameters on the SiC deposition procedure. It was found that the silicon-rich phenomenon observed at low temperatures is related to the low reactivity of CH4 and the preferential adsorption of chlorosilanes. With increasing deposition temperature, the concentration of silicon-containing molecular species such as SiCl2 rises, while unsaturated hydrocarbons like C2H2 become the dominant carbon sources at high temperature, ultimately producing nearly stoichiometric SiC coatings at 1400 ℃. Notably, thermodynamic calculation results alone exhibited deviations from experimental results, whereas coupling with fluid dynamics simulations, consistency was improved significantly. This research method not only compensates limitations inherent in thermodynamic calculations but also provides reliable theoretical basis and technical support for precise control of CVD parameters and optimization of SiC chemical composition.
Journal of Central South University•2026•DOI: 10.1007/s11771-026-6194-5
This study analyzed the interaction between sequentially installed combined support systems and the surrounding rock. Six distinct forms of elastic-brittle-plastic rock masses with reinforcement were analyzed, along with the critical displacements that governed their transition behaviors. Virtual support pressure was introduced to assess the spatial influence of the tunnel face. It was determined by integrating the longitudinal displacement profile with the proposed ground characteristic curve solutions under various ground conditions. Considering the timing of support installation, the support-rock interaction was divided into three phases. A method was presented to determine the evolution of this interaction based on critical displacements. An analytical approach was further proposed to describe the complete process of support system-rock interaction using displacement coordination. The analytical results are validated against numerical simulations and field measurements, and the method's advantages are demonstrated through comparisons with existing models and the convergence-confinement approach. Finally, the effects of surrounding rock and support parameters are examined. The results indicate that residual cohesion, the friction angle of reinforced ground, and reinforcement thickness strongly influence tunnel behavior. Additionally, increasing the stiffness or advancing the installation of secondary support substantially raises secondary support pressure.
Nano-Micro Letters•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01835-9
Radiative cooling is a passive thermal management strategy that leverages the natural ability of materials to dissipate heat through infrared radiation. It has significant implications for energy efficiency, climate adaptation, and sustainable technology development, with applications in personal thermal management, building temperature regulation, and aerospace engineering. However, radiative cooling performance is susceptible to environmental aging and special environmental conditions, limiting its applicability in extreme environments. Herein, a critical review of extreme environmental radiative cooling is presented, focusing on enhancing environmental durability and cooling efficiency. This review first introduces the design principles of heat exchange channels, which are tailored based on the thermal flow equilibrium to optimize radiative cooling capacity in various extreme environments. Subsequently, recent advancements in radiative cooling materials and micro-nano structures that align with these principles are systematically discussed, with a focus on their implementation in terrestrial dwelling environments, terrestrial extreme environments, aeronautical environments, and space environments. Moreover, this review evaluates the cooling effects and anti-environmental abilities of extreme radiative cooling devices. Lastly, key challenges hindering the development of radiative cooling devices for extreme environmental applications are outlined, and potential strategies to overcome these limitations are proposed, aiming to prompt their future commercialization.
Nano-Micro Letters•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01759-4
Silicon suboxide (SiOx, 0<x<2) is an appealing anode material to replace traditional graphite owing to its much higher theoretical specific capacity enabling higher-energy-density lithium batteries. Nevertheless, the huge volume change and rapid capacity decay of SiOx electrodes during cycling pose huge challenges to their large-scale practical applications. To eliminate this bottleneck, a dragonfly wing microstructure-inspired polymer electrolyte (denoted as PPM-PE) is developed based on in-situ polymerization of bicyclic phosphate ester- and urethane motif-containing monomer and methyl methacrylate in traditional liquid electrolyte. PPM-PE delivers excellent mechanical properties, highly correlated with the formation of a micro-phase separation structure similar with dragonfly wings. By virtue of superior mechanical properties and the in-situ solidified preparation method, PPM-PE can form a 3D polymer network buffer against stress within the electrode particles gap, enabling much suppressed electrode volume expansion and more stabilized solid electrolyte interface along with evidently decreased electrolyte decomposition. Resultantly, PPM-PE shows significant improvements in both cycling and rate performance in button and soft package batteries with SiOx-based electrodes, compared with the liquid electrolyte counterpart. Such a dragonfly wing microstructure-inspired design philosophy of in-situ solidified polymer electrolytes helps facilitate the practical implementation of high-energy lithium batteries with SiOx-based anodes.
Nano-Micro Letters•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s40820-024-01636-6
The coupling of fast redox kinetics, high-energy density, and prolonged lifespan is a permanent aspiration for aqueous rechargeable zinc batteries, but which has been severely hampered by a narrow voltage range and suboptimal compatibility between the electrolytes and electrodes. Here, we unprecedentedly introduced an electric ambipolar effect for synergistic manipulation on Zn2+ ternary-hydrated eutectic electrolyte (ZTE) enabling high-performance Zn-Br2 batteries. The electric ambipolar effect motivates strong dipole interactions among hydrated perchlorates and bipolar ligands of L-carnitine (L-CN) and sulfamide, which reorganized primary cations solvation sheath in a manner of forming Zn[(L-CN)(SA)(H2O)4]2+ configuration and dynamically restricting desolvated H2O molecules, thus ensuring a broadened electrochemical window of 2.9 V coupled with high ionic conductivity. Noticeably, L-CN affords an electrostatic shielding effect and an in situ construction of organic–inorganic interphase, endowing oriented Zn anode plating/stripping reversibly for over 2400 h. Therefore, with the synergy of electro/nucleophilicity and exceptional compatibility, the ZTE electrolyte dynamically boosts the conversion redox of Zn-Br2 batteries in terms of high specific capacity and stable cycling performance. These findings open a window for designing electrolytes with synergetic chemical stability and compatibility toward advanced zinc-ion batteries.
Nano-Micro Letters•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01652-0
In an era where technological advancement and sustainability converge, developing renewable materials with multifunctional integration is increasingly in demand. This study filled a crucial gap by integrating energy storage, multi-band electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, and structural design into bio-based materials. Specifically, conductive polymer layers were formed within the 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxide (TEMPO)-oxidized cellulose fiber skeleton, where a mild TEMPO-mediated oxidation system was applied to endow it with abundant macropores that could be utilized as active sites (specific surface area of 105.6 m2 g−1). Benefiting from the special hierarchical porous structure of the material, the constructed cellulose fiber-derived composites can realize high areal-specific capacitance of 12.44 F cm−2 at 5 mA cm−2 and areal energy density of 3.99 mWh cm−2 (2005 mW cm−2) with an excellent stability of maintaining 90.23% after 10,000 cycles at 50 mA cm−2. Meanwhile, the composites showed a high electrical conductivity of 877.19 S m−1 and excellent EMI efficiency (>99.99%) in multiple wavelength bands. The composite material’s EMI values exceed 100 dB across the L, S, C, and X bands, effectively shielding electromagnetic waves in daily life. The proposed strategy paves the way for utilizing bio-based materials in applications like energy storage and EMI shielding, contributing to a more sustainable future.
Journal of Semiconductors (半导体学报 - 中国科学院半导体研究所)•2025•DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/25030011
The optical soliton characteristics of GaSb-based ~2 μm wavelength integrated optical chips have broad application prospects in optoelectronic fields such as optical communications, infrared countermeasures, and gas environment monitoring. In the research of two-section integrated optical chips, more attention is paid to their passive mode-locked characteristics. The ability of its structure to generate stable soliton transmission has not yet been studied, which will limit its further application in high-performance near-mid infrared optoelectronic technology. In this paper, we design and prepare a GaSb-based ~2 μm wavelength two-section integrated semiconductor laser chip structure, and test and analyze its related properties of soliton, including power−injection current−voltage (P−I−V), temperature and mode-locked characteristics. Experimental results show that the chip can achieve stable mode-locked operation at nearly ~2 μm wavelength and present the working characteristics of near optical soliton states and multi-peak optical soliton states. By comparing and analyzing the measured optical pulse sequence curve with the numerical fitting based on the pure fourth order soliton approximation solution, it is confirmed that the two-section integrated optical chip structure can generate stable transmission of multi-peak optical soliton. This provides a research direction for developing near-mid infrared mode-locked integrated optical chips with high-performance property of optical soliton.
New Carbon Materials (新型炭材料)•2025•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(NCM2026-41-03-07)
Conventional lignin-based carbons typically have sluggish ion transport and a limited number of active sites, which restrict their performance as electrodes in supercapacitors. A Moiré-like morphology was engineered by the in-situ deposition of lignin carbon onto DVD matrix onto lignin carbon for the fabrication of a photo-assisted supercapacitor (PASC). The Moiré-like structure modulates light propagation across different frequencies by dispersion effects, thereby increasing surface light absorption and improving the electrochemical performance of the PASC. Under illumination, the carbon has a specific capacitance of 253.5 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1, corresponding to a 35.6% improvement over one without this grating surface (186.9 F g−1). A symmetrical capacitor using this material has an areal capacitance of 58.84 mF cm−2 and an energy density of 4.46 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 365.2 W kg−1, maintaining 85.2% of its initial capacitance after 5000 cycles, thus demonstrating excellent cycling stability. This work suggests a cost-effective strategy to simultaneously improve the light-harvesting ability and capacitive performance of PASCs.
New Carbon Materials (新型炭材料)•2025•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(NCM2026-41-03-08)
Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) have significant promise as large-scale energy storage devices due to their high safety, low cost, and environmental friendliness. However, their application has been constrained by limited operational voltage windows. A high-voltage-resistant Ti-graphene-Ti cathode current collector (TGT) was designed and fabricated by three-dimensional (3D) printing. The surface of the TGT has a TixOy protective layer, which effectively suppresses electrolyte decomposition under high voltage conditions so that the voltage window of the battery is extended to 1.0–2.2 V without the obvious formation of by-products. Simultaneously, the graphene layer in the TGT structure significantly improves the adsorption and insertion/extraction kinetics of cations, resulting in a high specific capacity of 307.5 mAh g−1 and a prolonged cycling life of the battery. The resultant AZIBs have a stable charge/discharge performance over 400 cycles at a high voltage. Furthermore, the influence of the geometric arrangements of Ti and graphene in the 3D printing process on the energy storage mechanism was investigated and provided novel insight for the development of high-voltage-resistant composite cathode current collectors for AZIBs.
New Carbon Materials (新型炭材料)•2025•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(NCM2024-39-01-08)
The nitrate reduction reaction (NtRR) has been demonstrated to be a promising way for obtaining ammonia (NH3) by converting NO3− to NH3. Here we report the controlled synthesis of cobalt tetroxide/graphdiyne heterostructured nanowires (Co3O4/GDY NWs) by a simple two-step process including the synthesis of Co3O4 NWs and the following growth of GDY using hexaethynylbenzene as the precursor at 110 °C for 10 h. Detailed scanning electron microscopy, high resolution transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Raman characterization confirmed the synthesis of a Co3O4/GDY heterointerface with the formation of sp-C―Co bonds at the interface and incomplete charge transfer between GDY and Co, which provide a continuous supply of electrons for the catalytic reaction and ensure a rapid NtRR. Because of these advantages, Co3O4/GDY NWs had an excellent NtRR performance with a high NH3 yield rate (YNH3) of 0.78 mmol h−1 cm−2 and a Faraday efficiency (FE) of 92.45% at −1.05 V (vs. RHE). This work provides a general approach for synthesizing heterostructures that can drive high-performance ammonia production from wastewater under ambient conditions.
New Carbon Materials (新型炭材料)•2025•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(NCM2026-41-01-04)
Pitch is an excellent precursor for the production of hard carbon, with pre-oxidation a crucial process in the fabrication. The structural changes in the different molecular components of pitch during thermochemical treatment are a key factor in determining the sodium-ion storage of pitch-based hard carbon anodes. We investigated the effects of the different molecular structures in the asphaltene precursor, including aromatic rings and aliphatic chains, on the sodium-ion storage behavior of the resulting carbon. We found that polar oxygen functional groups limit the steric hindrance caused by the aromatic rings in pitch, and thus facilitate the introduction of cross-linked structures. During high-temperature carbonization, aromatic rings form a rigid carbon framework that prevents the rearrangement of ordered carbon layers, leading to a short-range disordered carbon structure and promotes the production of closed pores. For example, a material prepared from asphaltene, which contains a large number of oxygen-containing functional groups and macromolecular aromatic rings, using pre-oxidation at 300 °C and carbonization at 1200 °C had a reversible capacity of 316.7 mAh g−1 when used as the anode for sodium ion batteries. Our research provides a theoretical basis for the selection of raw materials for the development of high-quality pitch-based hard carbons.
Transactions of Nonferrous Metals Society of China (中国有色金属学报)•2025•DOI: 10.1016/S1003-6326(25)67014-2
The effects of adding a novel Al−3Ti−4.35La master alloy and Nd and heat treatment on the microstructure and mechanical properties of Al−7Si alloy were investigated. The results showed that the secondary dendrite arm spacing of α-Al in the as-cast Al−7Si alloy was refined from 18.3 to 11.9 μm after modification with 0.2 wt.% Al−Ti−La and 0.03 wt.% Nd, and the length of eutectic Si was reduced from 8.6 to 5.0 μm. After heat treatment at 535 °C for 3 h followed by 165 °C for 3 h, the morphology of the eutectic Si became more rounded, and the size decreased. The microhardness, ultimate tensile strength, and elongation were HV 66.1, 184.9 MPa, and 24.4%, respectively, which increased by 24.2%, 11.6%, and 194.0% compared to the as-cast state. The addition of Al−3Ti−4.35La master alloy and Nd can reduce the nucleation temperature of eutectic Si in Al−7Si, thereby suppressing its growth. Notably, the Ti2(Al,Si)20(La,Nd) phase formed in the Al−7Si alloy after the addition of Al−Ti−La and Nd adhered to or coexisted near the eutectic Si particles, inhibiting their growth.
Journal of Semiconductors (半导体学报 - 中国科学院半导体研究所)•2025•DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/25030012
In recent years, research advancements have highlighted the critical role of the A-site cation in determining the optoelectronic and physicochemical properties of organic–inorganic lead halide perovskites. Mixed-cation perovskites (MCPs) have been extensively used as absorber thin films in perovskite solar cells (PSCs), achieving high power conversion efficiencies (PCE) over 26%. The incorporation of mixed cations has led to a more optimal tolerance factor for the crystal structure, enhancing structural stability and providing additional functionalities to improve the chemical stability of the absorber thin films. However, mixed-cation perovskite absorbers often experience element and phase segregation, which can reduce device efficiency and operational lifespan. This segregation is a widespread phenomenon observed across various types of MCPs, whether in 2D or 3D structures. Therefore, understanding the fundamental causes of non-uniformity and phase segregation, as well as effective nanoscale regulatory strategies, is essential for enhancing the performance of PSCs. The development of high-quality MCPs with highly uniform cation distribution and stable phases is critical for addressing the stability challenges in PSCs.
Journal of Semiconductors (半导体学报 - 中国科学院半导体研究所)•2025•DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/25030011
The optical soliton characteristics of GaSb-based ~2 μm wavelength integrated optical chips have broad application prospects in optoelectronic fields such as optical communications, infrared countermeasures, and gas environment monitoring. In the research of two-section integrated optical chips, more attention is paid to their passive mode-locked characteristics. The ability of its structure to generate stable soliton transmission has not yet been studied, which will limit its further application in high-performance near-mid infrared optoelectronic technology. In this paper, we design and prepare a GaSb-based ~2 μm wavelength two-section integrated semiconductor laser chip structure, and test and analyze its related properties of soliton, including power−injection current−voltage (P−I−V), temperature and mode-locked characteristics. Experimental results show that the chip can achieve stable mode-locked operation at nearly ~2 μm wavelength and present the working characteristics of near optical soliton states and multi-peak optical soliton states. By comparing and analyzing the measured optical pulse sequence curve with the numerical fitting based on the pure fourth order soliton approximation solution, it is confirmed that the two-section integrated optical chip structure can generate stable transmission of multi-peak optical soliton. This provides a research direction for developing near-mid infrared mode-locked integrated optical chips with high-performance property of optical soliton.
Journal of Semiconductors (半导体学报 - 中国科学院半导体研究所)•2025•DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/25040026
In this letter, we demonstrate the effect of γ irradiation on the lateral AlGaN/GaN Schottky barrier diodes (SBDs) with self-terminated recessed anode structure and low work-function metal tungsten (W) as anode. For a comprehensive evaluation of the radiation-resistance performance of the device, the total dose of γ irradiation is up to 100 kGy with irradiation time of 20 h. Attributed to the barrier lowering effect of the W/GaN interface induced by γ irradiation observed in the experiment, the extracted turn-on voltage (VON) defined at anode forward current of 1 mA decreases from 0.47 to 0.43 V. Meanwhile, benefiting from the reinforced Schottky interface treated by post-anode-annealing, a high breakdown voltage (BV) of 1.75 kV is obtained for the γ-irradiated AlGaN/GaN SBD, which shows the promising application for the deep-space radiation environment and promotes the development of radiation-resistance research for GaN SBDs.
Journal of Semiconductors (半导体学报 - 中国科学院半导体研究所)•2025•DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/25060032
In recent years, optoelectronic synapses have garnered significant attention in the field of neuromorphic computing due to their integration of optical sensing and synaptic functions. In this work, we propose an optoelectronic synapse based on IGZO/Bi3.25La0.75Ti3O12 heterojunction. Under UV light stimulation, this device can simulate a range of synaptic behaviors, including paired-pulse facilitation, spike-intensity-dependent plasticity, spike-number-dependent plasticity, spike-width-dependent plasticity, and the transition from short-term memory to long-term memory. The majority of perceptible information for humans is acquired through the visual system. The 3 × 3 retinal morphology synapse arrays constructed based on plasticity behaviors not only integrates light perception and storage functions but also exhibits adaptive adjustment capabilities to address image blurring caused by object movement. At the same time, in CNN recognition training, the device successfully simulates the learning−relearning mechanism of the human brain. These findings highlight the device’s immense potential for applications in artificial vision systems.
Int. Journal of Mining Science and Technology (采矿与安全工程)•2025•DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2025.07.007
The rock mass failure induced by deep mining exhibits pronounced spatial heterogeneity and diverse mechanisms, with its microseismic responses serving as effective indicators of regional failure evolution and instability mechanisms. Focusing on the Level VI stope sublayers in the Jinchuan #2 mining area, this study constructs a 24-parameter index system encompassing time-domain features, frequency-domain features, and multifractal characteristics. Through manifold learning, clustering analysis, and hybrid feature selection, 15 key indicators were extracted to construct a classification framework for failure responses. Integrated with focal mechanism inversion and numerical simulation, the failure patterns and corresponding instability mechanisms across different structural zones were further identified. The results reveal that multiscale microseismic characteristics exhibit clear regional similarities. Based on the morphological features of radar plots derived from the 15 indicators, acoustic responses were classified into four typical types, each reflecting distinct local failure mechanisms, stress conditions, and plastic zone evolution. Moreover, considering dominant instability factors and rupture modes, four representative rock mass instability models were proposed for typical failure zones within the stope. These findings provide theoretical guidance and methodological support for hazard prediction, structural optimization, and disturbance control in deep metal mining areas.
China Foundry•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s41230-025-4182-2
As a reliable additive manufacturing technology, the stereolithography (SLA) ceramic core necessitates a tailored sintering process to achieve optimal performance. This study explored the effects of final sintering temperatures (specifically 1,150, 1,250, and 1,300 °C) on the properties of SLA-fabricated SiO2-based ceramic cores reinforced with nano-ZrO2 (at concentrations of 1.0wt.%, 1.5wt.%, and 2.0wt.%). The results demonstrate that increasing the final sintering temperature and the incorporation of nano-ZrO2 enhance the viscous flow of quartz glass, resulting in a higher sintering degree. As the final sintering temperature rises, the ceramic samples exhibit increased shrinkage rate, decreased apparent porosity, and increased bulk density. Higher final sintering temperatures also promote greater cristobalite precipitation, promoting an increase in the amount and precipitation rate of quartz during investment casting. The formation of a cristobalite and ZrSiO4 network at elevated temperatures effectively inhibits the viscous flow of quartz glass, thereby significantly improving high-temperature flexural strength and creep resistance of ceramic cores. When the content of nano-ZrO2 is between 1.5wt.% and 2.0wt.%, the final sintering temperature of 1,250 °C is the best choice. Under these conditions, the shrinkage rate along the Z direction ranges from 3.35% to 3.68%, the porosity lies between 25.57% and 26.03%, the bulk density varies from 1.612 to 1.645 g·cm-3, the room temperature flexural strength is between 26.79 and 27.85 MPa, and the flexural strength at high temperatures is within the range of 30.77 to 33.02 MPa. The deflection at high-temperatures is 3.37-5.31 mm, while the surface roughness of the upper surface is 3.26-4.79 μm, and the surface roughness of the side surface is 4.97-5.79 μm. These findings provide valuable guidance for optimizing the sintering processes of SLA ceramic cores, offering potential for industrial applications.
China Foundry•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s41230-025-4047-8
As a typical eutectic high-entropy alloy (EHEA), AlCoCrFeNi2.1 exhibits excellent casting properties. However, the imbalance between strength and plasticity hinders its application as an advanced structural material. In order to address this challenge, deep cryogenic treatment (DCT) as a new process applied in the field of EHEAs was proposed in this study. The effects of different DCT times on the microstructure and mechanical properties of AlCoCrFeNi2.1 EHEAs were studied, mainly focusing on the flake structure of FCC+B2 layer. The experimental results suggest that with the extension of the DCT time, the dislocation density in the FCC phase increases significantly. The spherical BCC precipitate phase is generated within the B2 phase, and the average size of this newly generated precipitate phase gradually decreases. Increasing the number of dislocations and precipitate phases is of great significance to improve the mechanical properties. The AlCoCrFeNi2.1 EHEA exhibits excellent comprehensive mechanical properties after DCT for 36 h. Compared with the as-cast state, the tensile strength at room temperature reaches 1,034.51 MPa, increased by 5.74%. The plasticity reaches 21.72%, which is increased by 11.79%. The results show that the tensile strength and ductility of AlCoCrFeNi2.1 EHEAs are balanced and improved after DCT, which are more suitable as advanced structural materials. In addition, the introduction of the DCT process to EHEAs solves the problem of environmental pollution caused by traditional heat treatment process. This study provides useful guidance for using the DCT process to strengthen the mechanical properties of “lamellar + block” type EHEAs.
China Foundry•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s41230-025-4017-1
Effects of solution and aging treatment on the microstructure and mechanical properties of a novel Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy by microalloying rare elements Sc and Er were studied. The results show that solution time has a visible influence on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the alloy. Specifically, as the solution time increases, the area fraction of the residual phase in the alloy decreases, and the shape of the grain becomes more spheroidal and coarser, leading to a decrease in hardness. This is attributed to the dissolution of strengthening phases during the solution treatment, which weakens the solid solution strengthening effect. The single-stage aging treatment shows an initial increase in strength and hardness of the alloy, followed by a decrease as the aging time is extended, until a steady state is achieved. The optimal single-aging conditions are found to be at 120 °C for 24 h, where the alloy exhibits an excellent combination of high strength and good ductility, with an ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of 523 MPa, yield strength (YS) of 482 MPa, and elongation (El) of 1.75%, respectively. Compared to single-stage aging, double-stage aging (120 °C for 24 h and then 150 °C for 52 h) significantly increases the elongation of the alloy (4.17%), but the UTS reduces to 465.29 MPa, and YS reduces to 410.64 MPa. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations disclose that the grain size, the distribution spacing of precipitates along the grain boundary, and the width of the precipitation-free zone (PFZ) all undergo augmentation as the duration of the second stage aging process elongates.
Chinese Journal of Mechanical Engineering•2025•DOI: 10.1186/s10033-025-01241-7
A sudden increase in the radial depth (SIRD) is a distinctive phenomenon in plunge milling. It is typically characterized by a sharp increase in cutting force at the end of the axial feed of the tool, accompanied by harsh machine vibration sounds, which can negatively impact the reliability of plunge milling. This paper proposes an optimization method to eliminate SIRD in five-axis plunge milling. Initially, a five-axis plunge milling experiment and an analysis of the spatial position relationship between the plunge tools and the workpiece revealed that the cause of SIRD is unreasonable tool path planning. Subsequently, using the cutter position and cutter axis vector as variables, an SIRD discrimination model was developed for adjacent cutter positions and extended to multiple cutter positions. Optimizing the plunge milling tool path is considered a multivariate optimization problem that involves determining the cutter point and cutter axis vector. The SIRD discrimination model was used as a constraint function to aid in solving for the variables. The simulation and experimental results indicate that with the remaining volume of material as the optimization target, the optimized plunge milling tool path results in a residual material volume that is less than 60% of the gradually decreasing plunge depth. This optimization decreases the subsequent semi-finishing time of the workpiece and enhances machining efficiency. Additionally, it does not rely on operator experience and facilitates efficient automated optimization of the tool path to exclude SIRD.
Chinese Journal of Mechanical Engineering•2025•DOI: 10.1186/s10033-025-01224-8
Assembly precision greatly influences the performance of complex high-end equipment. The traditional industrial assembly process and deviation transfer are implicit and uncertain, causing problems like poor component fit and hard-to-trace assembly stress concentration. Assemblers can only check whether the dimensional tolerance of the component design is exceeded step by step in combination with prior knowledge. Inversion in industrial assembly optimizes assembly and design by comparing real and theoretical results and doing inversion analysis to reduce assembly deviation. The digital twin (DT) technology visualizes and predicts the assembly process by mapping real and virtual model parameters and states simultaneously, expanding parameter range for inversion analysis and improving inversion result accuracy. Problems in improving industrial assembly precision and the significance and research status of DT-driven parametric inversion of assembly tools, processes and object precision are summarized. It analyzes vital technologies for assembly precision inversion such as multi-attribute assembly process parameter sensing, virtual modeling of high-fidelity assembly systems, twin synchronization of assembly process data models, multi-physical field simulation, and performance twin model construction of the assembly process. Combined with human-cyber-physical system, augmented reality, and generative intelligence, the outlook of DT-driven assembly precision inversion is proposed, providing support for DT’s use in industrial assembly and precision improvement.
Chinese Journal of Mechanical Engineering•2025•DOI: 10.1186/s10033-024-01163-w
In the machining of high-end optical components, the aerostatic spindle error of an ultra-precision machine tool has a significant impact on the surface quality of the machined surfaces. The surfaces of many high-end optical components need to meet the extremely stringent requirements of the full-frequency band error, which poses significant challenge to the control of the aerostatic spindle error. In this research, we put forward an active control method for the frequency domain error of the aerostatic spindle based on acoustic levitation, in which the acoustic-magnetism-fluid-solid multi-field coupling rotor dynamics modeling method of the aerostatic spindle was proposed and the corresponding multi-field coupling model was established. Through the numerical simulation and preliminary experiments, the influence law of acoustic levitation on the frequency domain error of the aerostatic spindle is obtained. The results showed that acoustic levitation can be used to control the frequency domain error of the aerostatic spindle to some extent, which verified the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Journal of Central South University•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s11771-025-6094-0
High performance composite photocatalyst is a hotspot in the photocatalysis researches. In this study, a cutting-edge CeO2/rutile composite photocatalyst with tiny CeO2 concentration of 1.28 wt% was synthesized via a simple photocatalytic method. This as-obtained CeO2/rutile catalyst (CeO2/TiO2-1:1) exhibited an enhanced wastewater degradation and improved water splitting H2 evolution ability, with 95.83 % removal ratio for methylene blue (MB), 72.84% for tetracycline (TC) and 87.57 μmol/g H2 evolution capacity. Light irradiation and 2-coordinated oxygen vacancies (OV2C) on rutile surface promoted the Ce3+ adsorption on the rutile (110) facet as DFT results shown. The CeO2/rutile type-II heterojunction was evidenced to promote the migration of e−/h+ and generation of ·OH/·O2− and H2, which rapidly boosted the whole photocatalytic performance. This as-prepared CeO2/TiO2 photocatalyst can provide useful inspirations and new thoughts about the photosynthesis process, and offer a novel strategy for heterojunction photocatalysts preparation.
Journal of Central South University•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s11771-025-6067-3
Ground reinforcement is crucial for tunnel construction, especially in soft rock tunnels. Existing analytical models are inadequate for predicting the ground reaction curves (GRCs) for reinforced tunnels in strain-softening (SS) rock masses. This study proposes a novel analytical model to determine the GRCs of SS rock masses, incorporating ground reinforcement and intermediate principal stress (IPS). The SS constitutive model captures the progressive post-peak failure, while the elastic-brittle model simulates reinforced rock masses. Nine combined states are innovatively investigated to analyze plastic zone development in natural and reinforced regions. Each region is analyzed separately, and coupled through boundary conditions at interface. Comparison with three types of existing models indicates that these models overestimate reinforcement effects. The deformation prediction errors of single geological material models may exceed 75%. Furthermore, neglecting softening and residual zones in natural regions could lead to errors over 50%. Considering the IPS can effectively utilize the rock strength to reduce tunnel deformation by at least 30%, thereby saving on reinforcement and support costs. The computational results show a satisfactory agreement with the monitoring data from a model test and two tunnel projects. The proposed model may offer valuable insights into the design and construction of reinforced tunnel engineering.
Int. Journal of Minerals, Metallurgy and Materials (矿物冶金与材料学报)•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s12613-024-2945-1
At present, the emerging solid-phase friction-based additive manufacturing technology, including friction rolling additive manufacturing (FRAM), can only manufacture simple single-pass components. In this study, multi-layer multi-pass FRAM-deposited aluminum alloy samples were successfully prepared using a non-shoulder tool head. The material flow behavior and microstructure of the overlapped zone between adjacent layers and passes during multi-layer multi-pass FRAM deposition were studied using the hybrid 6061 and 5052 aluminum alloys. The results showed that a mechanical interlocking structure was formed between the adjacent layers and the adjacent passes in the overlapped center area. Repeated friction and rolling of the tool head led to different degrees of lateral flow and plastic deformation of the materials in the overlapped zone, which made the recrystallization degree in the left and right edge zones of the overlapped zone the highest, followed by the overlapped center zone and the non-overlapped zone. The tensile strength of the overlapped zone exceeded 90% of that of the single-pass deposition sample. It is proved that although there are uneven grooves on the surface of the overlapping area during multi-layer and multi-pass deposition, they can be filled by the flow of materials during the deposition of the next layer, thus ensuring the dense microstructure and excellent mechanical properties of the overlapping area. The multi-layer multi-pass FRAM deposition overcomes the limitation of deposition width and lays the foundation for the future deposition of large-scale high-performance components.
Nano-Micro Letters•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s40820-024-01512-3
With the rapid development of flexible wearable electronics, the demand for stretchable energy storage devices has surged. In this work, a novel gradient-layered architecture was design based on single-pore hollow lignin nanospheres (HLNPs)-intercalated two-dimensional transition metal carbide (Ti3C2Tx MXene) for fabricating highly stretchable and durable supercapacitors. By depositing and inserting HLNPs in the MXene layers with a bottom-up decreasing gradient, a multilayered porous MXene structure with smooth ion channels was constructed by reducing the overstacking of MXene lamella. Moreover, the micro-chamber architecture of thin-walled lignin nanospheres effectively extended the contact area between lignin and MXene to improve ion and electron accessibility, thus better utilizing the pseudocapacitive property of lignin. All these strategies effectively enhanced the capacitive performance of the electrodes. In addition, HLNPs, which acted as a protective phase for MXene layer, enhanced mechanical properties of the wrinkled stretchable electrodes by releasing stress through slip and deformation during the stretch-release cycling and greatly improved the structural integrity and capacitive stability of the electrodes. Flexible electrodes and symmetric flexible all-solid-state supercapacitors capable of enduring 600% uniaxial tensile strain were developed with high specific capacitances of 1273 mF cm−2 (241 F g−1) and 514 mF cm−2 (95 F g−1), respectively. Moreover, their capacitances were well preserved after 1000 times of 600% stretch-release cycling. This study showcased new possibilities of incorporating biobased lignin nanospheres in energy storage devices to fabricate stretchable devices leveraging synergies among various two-dimensional nanomaterials.
Nano-Micro Letters•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s40820-024-01498-y
To address the limitations of contemporary lithium-ion batteries, particularly their low energy density and safety concerns, all-solid-state lithium batteries equipped with solid-state electrolytes have been identified as an up-and-coming alternative. Among the various SEs, organic–inorganic composite solid electrolytes (OICSEs) that combine the advantages of both polymer and inorganic materials demonstrate promising potential for large-scale applications. However, OICSEs still face many challenges in practical applications, such as low ionic conductivity and poor interfacial stability, which severely limit their applications. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent research advancements in OICSEs. Specifically, the influence of inorganic fillers on the main functional parameters of OICSEs, including ionic conductivity, Li+ transfer number, mechanical strength, electrochemical stability, electronic conductivity, and thermal stability are systematically discussed. The lithium-ion conduction mechanism of OICSE is thoroughly analyzed and concluded from the microscopic perspective. Besides, the classic inorganic filler types, including both inert and active fillers, are categorized with special emphasis on the relationship between inorganic filler structure design and the electrochemical performance of OICSEs. Finally, the advanced characterization techniques relevant to OICSEs are summarized, and the challenges and perspectives on the future development of OICSEs are also highlighted for constructing superior ASSLBs.
Int. Journal of Mining Science and Technology (采矿与安全工程)•2024•DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2024.12.010
The deformation energy (Wd) of soil-like tectonic coal is crucial for investigating the mechanism of coal and gas outbursts. Tectonic coal has a significant nonlinear constitutive relationship, which makes traditional elastic-based models for computing Wd unsuitable. Inspired by critical state soil mechanics, this study theoretically established a new calculation model of Wd suitable for the coal with nonlinear deformation characteristics. In the new model, the relationship between energy and stress no longer follows the square law (observed in traditional linear elastic models) but exhibits a power function, with the theoretical value of the power exponent ranging between 1 and 2. Hydrostatic cyclic loading and unloading experiments were conducted on four groups of tectonic coal samples and one group of intact coal samples. The results indicated that the relationship between Wd and stress for both intact and tectonic coal follows a power law. The exponents for intact and tectonic coal are close to 2 and 1, respectively. The stress-strain curve of intact coal exhibits small deformation and linear characteristics, whereas the stress-strain curves of tectonic coal show large deformation and nonlinear characteristics. The study specifically investigates the role of coal viscosity in the cyclic loading/unloading process. The downward bending in the unloading curves can be attributed to the time-dependent characteristics of coal, particularly its viscoelastic behavior. Based on experimental statistics, the calculation model of Wd was further simplified. The simplified model involves only one unknown parameter, which is the power exponent between Wd and stress. The measured Wd of the coal samples increases with the number of load cycles. This phenomenon is attributed to coal’s viscoelastic deformation. Within the same stress, the Wd of tectonic coal is an order of magnitude greater than that of intact coal. The calculation model of Wd proposed in this paper provides a new tool for studying the energy principle of coal and gas outbursts.