Transactions of Nonferrous Metals Society of China (中国有色金属学报)•2026•DOI: 10.1016/S1003-6326(26)67062-8
The influence of pre-ageing temperature on dynamic recrystallization (DRX) and microstructure evolution during hot compression of Ni−38Cr−3.8Al alloy was investigated. Five samples with varying pre-precipitation states were fabricated. Pre-ageing treatment precipitates α-Cr phases in lamellar and particle forms. During subsequent hot deformation, pre-precipitated α-Cr lamellae undergo dissolution fragmentation and spheroidization, transforming into finer particles due to elevated temperature and high-density dislocations. At 560 °C, an incomplete discontinuous precipitation (DP) state restrains DRX, producing necklace-like microstructures. Above 640 °C, a complete DP state with fully lamellar structures promotes DRX, yielding ultrafine-grained (UFG) microstructures. Coarse α-Cr particles enhance DRX through particle-stimulated nucleation (PSN) and discontinuous DRX mechanisms, while dissolved α-Cr lamellae promote DRX via continuous DRX. DRX kinetics analysis indicates that increasing pre-ageing temperature accelerates DRX, evidenced by reduced critical strain and peak strain, and increased DRX volume fraction. To achieve UFG microstructures during hot deformation, fully lamellar structures should be precipitated during pre-ageing. These findings provide a processing pathway for tailoring microstructures in high-Cr nickel-based alloys.
Nano-Micro Letters•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01781-6
Designing high-performance electrocatalysts is one of the key challenges in the development of microbial electrochemical hydrogen production. Transition metal-based (TM-based) electrocatalysts are introduced as an astonishing alternative for future catalysts by addressing several disadvantages, like the high cost and low performance of noble metal and metal-free electrocatalysts, respectively. In this critical review, a comprehensive analysis of the major development of all families of TM-based catalysts from the beginning development of microbial electrolysis cells in the last 15 years is presented. Importantly, pivotal design parameters such as selecting efficient synthesis methods based on the type of material, main criteria during each synthesizing method, and the pros and cons of various procedures are highlighted and compared. Moreover, procedures for tuning and tailoring the structures, advanced strategies to promote active sites, and the potential for implementing novel unexplored TM-based hybrid structures suggested. Furthermore, consideration for large-scale application of TM-based catalysts for future mass production, including life cycle assessment, cost assessment, economic analysis, and recently pilot-scale studies were highlighted. Of great importance, the potential of utilizing artificial intelligence and advanced computational methods such as active learning, microkinetic modeling, and physics-informed machine learning in designing high-performance electrodes in successful practices was elucidated. Finally, a conceptual framework for future studies and remaining challenges on different aspects of TM-based electrocatalysts in microbial electrolysis cells is proposed.
Nano-Micro Letters•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01765-6
Metallic Zn anodes suffer from hydrogen evolution and dendritic deposition in aqueous electrolytes, resulting in low Coulombic efficiency and poor cyclic stability for aqueous Zn-ion batteries (AZIBs). Constructing stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) with strong affinity for Zn and exclusion of water corrosion of Zn metal anodes is a promising strategy to tackle these challenges. In this study, we develop a self-healing ZnO-based SEI film on the Zn electrode surface by employing an aspartame (APM) as a versatile electrolyte additive. The hydrophobic nature and strong Zn affinity of APM can facilitate the dynamic self-healing of ZnO-based SEI film during cyclic Zn plating/stripping process. Benefiting from the superior protection effect of self-healing ZnO-based SEI, the Zn║Cu cells possess an average coulombic efficiency more than 99.59% over 1,000 cycles even at a low current density of 1 mA cm−2 − 1 mAh cm−2. Furthermore, the Zn║NH4+-V2O5 full cells display a large specific capacity of 150 mAh g−1 and high cyclic stability with a capacity retention of 77.8% after 1,750 cycles. In addition, the Zn║Zn cell delivers high temperature adaptability at a wide-temperature range from −5 to 40 °C even under a high DOD of 85.2%. The enhanced capability and durability originate from the self-healing SEI formation enabled by multifunctional APM additives mediating both corrosion suppression and interfacial stabilization. This work presents an inspired and straightforward approach to promote a dendrite-free and wide-temperature rechargeable AZIBs energy storage system.
Nano-Micro Letters•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01744-x
The commercialization of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) has garnered worldwide attention and many efforts were devoted on the improvement of efficiency and stability. Here, we estimated the cost effectivities of PSCs based on the current industrial condition. Through the analysis of current process, the manufacturing cost and the levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of PSCs is estimated as 0.57 $ W−1 and 18–22 US cents (kWh)−1, respectively, and we demonstrate the materials cost shares 70% of the total cost. Sensitivity analysis indicates that the improvement of efficiency, yield and decrease in materials cost significantly reduce the cost of the modules. Analysis of the module cost and LCOE indicates that the PSCs have the potential to outperform the silicon solar cells in the condition of over 25% efficiency and 25-year lifetime in future. To achieve this target, it is essential to further refine the fabrication processes of each layer in the module, develop stable inorganic transport materials, and precisely control material formation and processing at the microscale and nanoscale to enhance charge transport.
New Carbon Materials (新型炭材料)•2025•DOI: 10.1016/S1872-5805(NCM2024-39-03-09)
Metal chloride-intercalated graphite with excellent conductivity and a large interlayer spacing is highly desired for use in sodium ion batteries. However, halogen vapor is usually indispensable in initiating the intercalation process, which makes equipment design and experiments challenging. In this work, SO2Cl2 was used as a chlorine generator to intensify the intercalation of BiCl3 into graphite (BiCl3-GICs), which avoided the potential risks, such as Cl2 leakage, in traditional methods. The operational efficiency in the experiment was also improved. After the reaction of SO2Cl2, BiCl3, and graphite at 200 °C for 20 h, the synthesized BiCl3-GICs had a large interlayer spacing (1.26 nm) and a high amount of BiCl3 intercalation (42%), which gave SIBs a high specific capacity of 213 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 and an excellent rate performance (170 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1). In-situ Raman spectra revealed that the electronic interaction between graphite and intercalated BiCl3 is weakened during the first discharge, which is favorable for sodium storage. This work broadly enables the increased intercalation of other metal chloride-intercalated graphites, offering possibilities for developing advanced energy storage devices.
Journal of Semiconductors (半导体学报 - 中国科学院半导体研究所)•2025•DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/25050011
As the development of single-junction solar cells reaches a bottleneck, tandem solar cells have emerged as a critical pathway to further enhance power conversion efficiency. Among them, monolithic perovskite/silicon heterojunction tandem solar cells are currently the fastest-growing technology, achieving the highest efficiencies at relatively low costs. The interconnecting layer, which connects the two sub-cells, plays a crucial role in tandem cell performance. It collects electrons and holes from the respective sub-cells and facilitates recombination and tunneling at the interface. Therefore, the properties of the interconnecting layer are pivotal to the overall device performance. In this work, we applied statistical analysis and machine learning algorithms to systematically analyze the interconnecting layer. A comprehensive dataset on interconnecting layer parameters was established, and predictive modeling was performed using Lasso linear regression, random forest, and multilayer perceptron (a type of neural network). The analysis revealed key feature importance for experimental parameters, providing valuable insights into the application of interconnecting layers in perovskite/silicon heterojunction tandem solar cells. The final optimized interconnecting layer can achieve a proof-of-concept efficiency of 38.17%, providing guidance and direction for the development of monolithic perovskite/silicon tandem solar cells.
Journal of Central South University•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s11771-025-6049-5
The influence of train height on aerodynamic characteristics of high-speed train (HST) is significant in crosswind environments. This study employed the improved delayed detached eddy simulation (IDDES) turbulence model to analyze the aerodynamic characteristics of trains with three different heights under a crosswind of 20 m/s. The numerical model was validated through comparison with wind tunnel experimental data. A comprehensive analysis was conducted on the characteristics of the flow field around trains, surface pressure distribution, and aerodynamic loads for trains with different heights. Results indicate that the side force coefficient increased by up to 61.54% with an increase in train height from 3.89 to 4.19 m. Compared with the 3.89 m case, the roll moment coefficient on the head, middle, and tail cars for 4.19 m cases increased by 18.11%, 24.78% and 34.23%, respectively. The increase in train height widens the impact width of the leading car’s front vortex on the leeward side and intensifies the helical shedding and coupling interactions of two vortices in the wake, leading to an increase in the intensity and extent of wake flow in both vertical and longitudinal directions. Additionally, the increase in height shifted the flow separation point on the leeward side, moving vortices farther from the train, expanding the back-flow region, and intensifying Reynolds stress and turbulent fluctuations on the leeward side, which adversely impacted train stability and safety. The research findings can provide a reference for the design of train configurations and the assessment of dynamic performance in crosswind environments.
Journal of Central South University•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s11771-025-6136-7
The increase in aerodynamic drag brings high energy consumption, which is a critical issue in the development of high-speed trains. Inspired by the excellent hydrodynamic characteristics of fish movement in nature, a two-dimensional numerical simulation method based on spring-smoothing model and adaptive mesh technology was utilized to explore the effects of different fishtail structures and two flexible motion modes (Eel mode and Lunate-tail mode) on the wake of high-speed trains, and to assess their potential for aerodynamic drag reduction. Results indicate that the biomimetic fishtail successfully suppresses the alternating shedding of vortices in the wake, and induces the aerodynamic drag fluctuation period to align with the fishtail oscillation period. The fishtail length, oscillation mode, and frequency have a significant impact on the wake flow and aerodynamic drag of the train. Among these, a 1850 mm Eel fishtail with parameters of λ=1 and T=8 s achieves the optimal drag reduction effect, with drag reduction rates of 39.12% and 26.00% for the tail car and the entire train, respectively. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the design of new low-resistance railway trains, promoting the sustainable development of rail transit towards goals of high-speed and energy-efficient.
Int. Journal of Minerals, Metallurgy and Materials (矿物冶金与材料学报)•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s12613-025-3188-5
In the context of reducing its carbon emissions, the Chinese steel industry is currently undergoing an intelligent transformation to enhance its profitability and sustainability. The optimization of production planning and scheduling plays a pivotal role in realizing these objectives such as improving production efficiency, saving energy, reducing carbon emissions, and enhancing quality. However, current practices in steel enterprises are largely dependent on experience-driven manual decision approaches supported by information systems, which are inadequate to meet the complex requirements of the industry. This study explores the current situation in production planning and scheduling, analyzes the characteristics and limitations of existing methods, and emphasizes the necessity and trends of intelligent systems. It surveys the current literature on production planning and scheduling in steel enterprises and analyzes the theoretical advancements and practical challenges associated with combinatorial and sequential optimization in this field. A key focus is on the limitations of current models and algorithms in effectively addressing the multi-objective and multiconstraint characteristics of steel production. To overcome these challenges, a novel framework for intelligent production planning and scheduling is proposed. This framework leverages data- and knowledge-driven decision-making and scenario adaptability, enabling the system to respond dynamically to real-time production conditions and market fluctuations. By integrating artificial intelligence and advanced optimization methodologies, the proposed framework improves the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability of steel manufacturing.
Int. Journal of Minerals, Metallurgy and Materials (矿物冶金与材料学报)•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s12613-024-2922-8
Three sets of MXene (Ti3C2Tx)@nano-Fe1Co0.8Ni1 composites with 15, 45, and 90 mg MXene were prepared by in-situ liquid-phase deposition to effectively investigate the impact of the relationship between MXene (Ti3C2Tx) and nano-Fe1Co0.8Ni1 magnetic particles on the electromagnetic absorption properties of the composites. The microstructure, static magnetic properties, and electromagnetic absorption performance of these composites were studied. Results indicate that the [email protected] composites were primarily composed of face-centered cubic crystal structure particles and MXene, with spherical Fe1Co0.8Ni1 particles uniformly distributed on the surface of the multilayered MXene. The alloy particles had an average particle size of approximately 100 nm and exhibited good dispersion without noticeable particle aggregation. With the increase in MXene content, the specific saturation magnetic and coercivity of the composite initially decreased and then increased, displaying typical soft magnetic properties. Compared with those of the Fe1Co0.8Ni1 magnetic alloy particles alone, MXene addition caused an increasing trend in the real and imaginary parts of the dielectric constant of the composite. Meanwhile, the real and imaginary parts of the magnetic permeability exhibit decreasing trend. With the increase in MXene addition, the material attenuation constant increased and the impedance matching decreased. The minimum reflection loss increased, and the maximum effective absorption bandwidth decreased. When the MXene addition was 90 mg, the composite exhibited a minimum reflection loss of −46.9 dB with a sample thickness of 1.1 mm and a maximum effective absorption bandwidth of 3.60 GHz with a sample thickness of 1.0 mm. The effective absorption bandwidth of the composites and their corresponding thicknesses showed a decreasing trend with the increase in MXene addition, reducing by 50% from 1.5 mm without MXene addition to 1 mm with 90 mg of MXene addition.
Nano-Micro Letters•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s40820-024-01591-2
Inspired by the remarkable electromagnetic response capabilities of the complex morphologies and subtle microstructures evolved by natural organisms, this paper delves into the research advancements and future application potential of bionic microwave-absorbing materials (BMAMs). It outlines the significance of achieving high-performance microwave-absorbing materials through ingenious microstructural design and judicious composition selection, while emphasizing the innovative strategies offered by bionic manufacturing. Furthermore, this work meticulously analyzes how inspiration can be drawn from the intricate structures of marine organisms, plants, animals, and non-metallic minerals in nature to devise and develop BMAMs with superior electromagnetic wave absorption properties. Additionally, the paper provides an in-depth exploration of the theoretical underpinnings of BMAMs, particularly the latest breakthroughs in broadband absorption. By incorporating advanced methodologies such as simulation modeling and bionic gradient design, we unravel the scientific principles governing the microwave absorption mechanisms of BMAMs, thereby furnishing a solid theoretical foundation for understanding and optimizing their performance. Ultimately, this review aims to offer valuable insights and inspiration to researchers in related fields, fostering the collective advancement of research on BMAMs.
Nano-Micro Letters•2025•DOI: 10.1007/s40820-024-01546-7
Sodium-ion batteries hold great promise as next-generation energy storage systems. However, the high instability of the electrode/electrolyte interphase during cycling has seriously hindered the development of SIBs. In particular, an unstable cathode–electrolyte interphase (CEI) leads to successive electrolyte side reactions, transition metal leaching and rapid capacity decay, which tends to be exacerbated under high-voltage conditions. Therefore, constructing dense and stable CEIs are crucial for high-performance SIBs. This work reports localized high-concentration electrolyte by incorporating a highly oxidation-resistant sulfolane solvent with non-solvent diluent 1H, 1H, 5H-octafluoropentyl-1, 1, 2, 2-tetrafluoroethyl ether, which exhibited excellent oxidative stability and was able to form thin, dense and homogeneous CEI. The excellent CEI enabled the O3-type layered oxide cathode NaNi1/3Mn1/3Fe1/3O2 (NaNMF) to achieve stable cycling, with a capacity retention of 79.48% after 300 cycles at 1 C and 81.15% after 400 cycles at 2 C with a high charging voltage of 4.2 V. In addition, its nonflammable nature enhances the safety of SIBs. This work provides a viable pathway for the application of sulfolane-based electrolytes on SIBs and the design of next-generation high-voltage electrolytes.