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🏛️ Key Research Academy24 Indexed Works

Shanghai Jiao Tong University

Verified scientific contributions, CAS laboratory outputs, clinical trial papers, and engineering breakthroughs produced by researchers and faculty affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University.

Journal of Shanghai Jiao Tong University (Science) (上海交通大学学报)•2026

Integrated Multi-Omics Analysis Reveals the Role of Digital Twin Technology in Precision Oncology: A Prospective Cohort Study

Authors: ZHANG Wei, LI Ming, WANG Fang, CHEN Yu, LIU Yang, ZHAO Lei, SUN Jing, ZHOU Kai, WU Hao, XU Dan

Background: Digital twin technology has emerged as a promising tool in precision oncology, yet its clinical utility remains underexplored. Methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study integrating multi-omics data (genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics) from 1,200 cancer patients to construct digital twin models. Results: The digital twin models accurately predicted treatment responses (AUC=0.89) and identified novel biomarkers for early detection. Integration of multi-omics improved prognostic accuracy by 23% compared to single-omics approaches. Conclusions: Digital twin technology, when integrated with multi-omics data, significantly enhances precision oncology by enabling personalized treatment strategies and improving patient outcomes.

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China Foundry•2026

Effects of natural and forced convections on dendritic growth in thin-walled Al-Cu alloy by counter-gravity casting: A phase-field lattice-Boltzmann study

Authors: Jia-tuo An, Da-fan Du, Li-jun Zhang, An-ping Dong, Bao-de Sun

Thin-walled aluminum alloys, prized for their high specific strength, are critical to modern aerospace and other advanced industries. Counter-gravity casting (CGC) is a premier method for fabricating such components, where precise control over solidification microstructure is paramount. However, this control is challenged by the complex interplay of forced and natural convection during solidification. This study employs a coupled multiple-relaxation-time lattice Boltzmann (D2Q9) and quantitative phase-field model to simulate dendritic growth in a thin-walled Al-0.576wt.%Cu alloy. Simulations reveal that convection disrupts dendritic symmetry: for equiaxed crystals, solute plumes and asymmetric arm growth are observed, while for columnar dendrites, an optimal applied force exists that refines the microstructure without compromising economic viability. Furthermore, forced convection consistently reduces the inclination angle of primary dendrites. These findings, validated against experimental data, elucidate the micro-mechanisms of dendritic growth under convection, providing critical theoretical guidance for optimizing CGC processes.

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Journal of Central South University•2026

Laser powder bed fusion of biodegradable Zn-4Cu alloy: Processing, microstructure and properties

Authors: WANG Han-dan, ZHAO Yang, DONG An-ping, HE Lin, SHUAI Ci-jun, GAO Cheng-de

Zn's natural degradability and biocompatibility make it a promising candidate for implants, however, its mechanical properties remain insufficient for bone applications. In this study, the performance of Zn was enhanced by developing Zn-Cu alloys via laser powder bed fusion (LPBF). Optimal LPBF parameters for forming stable tracks were achieved by adjusting laser power and scanning speed. Under optimized conditions of 100 W and 100 mm/s, high-density (99.58%) Zn-Cu alloys with improved hardness (68.2HV) and yield strength (160 MPa) were achieved. These improvements are attributed to solid solution strengthening, segregation strengthening, and grain refinement. The Zn-Cu alloys also demonstrated favorable degradation behavior, with a rate of 0.16 mm/year. This degradation is primarily driven by micro-galvanic corrosion between the CuZn5 phase and Zn matrix, along with refined grains and increased grain boundary density. This work demonstrates a viable strategy for fabricating Zn-based implants with enhanced structural integrity and mechanical performance via LPBF.

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Ship Mechanics (船舶力学)•2025

Numerical Modeling of Ship-Ice-Water Interaction for Free-running Ships in Pack Ice

Authors: ZOU Ming, ZOU Zao-jian, ZOU Lu, ZHU Sheng-tao

Ice-going ships play a crucial role in polar transportation and resource extraction. Different from the existing modeling approach which assumes that ships remain stationary, dynamic overset grid technology and DFBI (Dynamic Fluid-Body Interaction) method are employed in this paper to enable the free-running motion of the ship in modeling. A numerical model capable of simulating a ship navigating through pack ice area is proposed, which uses Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) method to solve the flow field and applies the Discrete Element Method (DEM) to simulate ship-ice and ice-ice interactions. Besides, the proposed high-precision method for generating pack ice area can be used in conjunction with the proposed numerical model. By comparing the numerical results with the available model test data and experimental observations, the effectiveness of the numerical model is validated, demonstrating its strong capability of predicting resistance and simulating ship navigation in pack ice, as well as its significant potential and applicability for further studies.

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Ship Mechanics (船舶力学)•2025

A New Approach for Melnikov Analysis of the Stability of a Ship with Water on Deck

Authors: WANG Ying-guang

To study the rolling motion of a ship in the presence of water on its deck, a linear-plus-quadratic damping term was incorporated into its equation of motion. Ship model tests indicate that the key dynamics of the physical system are preserved in the ship rolling equation with the linear-plus-quadratic type damping term. To take into account the presence of randomness in the excitation and the response, a new method was developed and a Melnikov criterion was obtained to provide an upper bound on the domain of the potential chaotic rolling motion (erratic rocking). Additionally, the Melnikov criterion proposed in this study was verified by the utilization of phase plane diagrams and Poincare maps. Furthermore, this research has made the initial endeavor to systematically modify the system parameters in the rolling equation of motion for ship stability analysis.

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Int. Journal of Mining Science and Technology (采矿与安全工程)•2025

Sparse Pipeline Wall Information-Based Data-Driven Reconstruction for Solid–Liquid Two-Phase Flow in Flexible Vibrating Pipelines

Authors: Shengpeng Xiao, Chuyi Wan, Hongbo Zhu, Dai Zhou, Juxi Hu, Mengmeng Zhang, Yuankun Sun, Yan Bao, Ke Zhao

Environmental factors induce vibrations in flexible pipelines, thereby affecting the internal flow characteristics. Therefore, real-time monitoring of solid–liquid two-phase flow in pipelines is crucial for system maintenance. This study develops an autoencoder-based deep learning framework to reconstruct three-dimensional solid–liquid two-phase flow within flexible vibrating pipelines utilizing sparse wall information from sensors. Within this framework, separate X-model and F-model with distinct hidden-layer structures are established to reconstruct the coordinates and flow field information on the computational domain grid of the pipeline under traveling wave vibration. Following hyperparameter optimization, the models achieved high reconstruction accuracy, demonstrating R2 values of 0.990 and 0.945, respectively. The models’ robustness is evaluated across three aspects: vibration parameters, physical fields, and vibration modes, demonstrating good reconstruction performance. Results concerning sensors show that 20 sensors (0.06% of total grids) achieve a balance between accuracy and cost, with superior accuracy obtained when arranged along the full length of the pipe compared to a dense arrangement at the front end. The models exhibited a signal-to-noise ratio tolerance of approximately 27 dB, with reconstruction accuracy being more affected by sensor failures at both ends of the pipeline. Deep-sea mineral resource transportation predominantly utilizes hydraulic pipeline methodology.

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Nano-Micro Letters•2025

Core–Shell IrPt Nanoalloy on La/Ni–Co3O4 for High-Performance Bifunctional PEM Electrolysis with Ultralow Noble Metal Loading

Authors: Yifei Liu, Xinmeng Er, Xinyao Wang, Hangxing Ren, Wenchao Wang, Feng Cao, Taiyan Zhang, Pan Liu, Yakun Yuan, Fangbo Yu, Yang Ren, Fuqiang Huang, Wenjiang Ding, Lina Chong

The development of highly efficient and durable bifunctional catalysts with minimal precious metal usage is critical for advancing proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE). We present an iridium–platinum nanoalloy (IrPt) supported on lanthanum and nickel co-doped cobalt oxide, featuring a core–shell architecture with an amorphous IrPtOx shell and an IrPt core. This catalyst exhibits exceptional bifunctional activity for oxygen and hydrogen evolution reactions in acidic media, achieving 2 A cm−2 at 1.72 V in a PEMWE device with ultralow loadings of 0.075 mgIr cm−2 and 0.075 mgPt cm−2 at anode and cathode, respectively. It demonstrates outstanding durability, sustaining water splitting for over 646 h with a degradation rate of only 5 μV h−1, outperforming state-of-the-art Ir-based catalysts. In situ X-ray absorption spectroscopy and density functional theory simulations reveal that the optimized charge redistribution between Ir and Pt, along with the IrPt core–IrPtOx shell structure, enhances performance. The Ir–O–Pt active sites enable a bi-nuclear mechanism for oxygen evolution reaction and a Volmer–Tafel mechanism for hydrogen evolution reaction, reducing kinetic barriers. Hierarchical porosity, abundant oxygen vacancies, and a high electrochemical surface area further improve electron and mass transfer. This work offers a cost-effective solution for green hydrogen production and advances the design of high-performance bifunctional catalysts for PEMWE.

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Nano-Micro Letters•2025

Radiative Cooling Materials for Extreme Environmental Applications

Authors: Jianing Xu, Wei Xie, Hexiang Han, Chengyu Xiao, Jing Li, Yifan Zhang, Shaowen Chen, Binyuan Zhao, Di Zhang, Han Zhou

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.

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Nano-Micro Letters•2025

Eliciting Dual-Niche Immunological Priming by Acupoint Delivery of Nanovaccines

Authors: Lu Wang, Yanhong Sun, Meiling Yan, Lihua Wang, Yiyang Wang, Mengmeng Zhang, Qian Li, Huangan Wu, Jinyao Liu, Chunhai Fan

Immunization has long played essential roles in preventing diseases. However, the desire for precision delivery of vaccines to boost a robust immune response remains largely unmet. Here, we describe the use of acupoint delivery of nanovaccines (ADN) to elicit dual-niche immunological priming. ADN can simultaneously stimulate mast cell-assisted maturation of dendritic cells at the acupoint and enable direct delivery of nanovaccines into the draining lymph nodes. We demonstrate that ADN not only provokes antigen presentation by lymph node-resident CD8α+ dendritic cells, but also induces the accumulation of nanovaccines in B-cell zones, amplifying antigen-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte responses and immunoglobulin G antibody expression in draining lymph nodes. ADN also generates systemic immune responses by causing immune memory and preventing T-cell anergy in the spleen. Further supported by evoking effective antitumor responses and high-level antiviral antibodies in mice, ADN provides a simple yet versatile platform for advanced nanovaccination.

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Nano-Micro Letters•2025

Revealing the Oxygen Transport Challenges in Catalyst Layers in Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells and Water Electrolysis

Authors: Huiyuan Li, Shu Yuan, Jiabin You, Congfan Zhao, Xiaojing Cheng, Liuxuan Luo, Xiaohui Yan, Shuiyun Shen, Junliang Zhang

Urgent requirements of the renewable energy boost the development of stable and clean hydrogen, which could effectively displace fossil fuels in mitigating climate changes. The efficient interconversion of hydrogen and electronic is highly based on polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) and water electrolysis (PEMWEs). However, the high cost continues to impede large-scale commercialization of both PEMFC and PEMWE technologies, with the expense primarily attributed to noble catalysts serving as a major bottleneck. The reduction of Pt loading in PEMFCs is essential but limited by the oxygen transport resistance in the cathode catalyst layers (CCLs), while the oxygen transport in anode catalyst layers (ACLs) in PEMWEs also being focused as the Ir/IrOx catalyst reduced. The pore structure and the catalyst–ionomer agglomerates play important roles in the oxygen transport process of both PEMFCs and PEMWEs due to the similarity of membrane electrode assembly (MEA). Herein, the oxygen transport mechanism of PEMFCs in pore structure and ionomer thin films in CCLs is systematically reviewed, while state-of-the-art strategies are presented for enhancing oxygen transport and performance through materials and structural design. The deeply research opens avenues for exploring similar key scientific problems in oxygen transport process of PEMWEs and their further development.

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Nano-Micro Letters•2025

Construction of Multifunctional Conductive Carbon-Based Cathode Additives for Boosting Li6PS5Cl-Based All-Solid-State Lithium Batteries

Authors: Xin Gao, Ya Chen, Zheng Zhen, Lifeng Cui, Ling Huang, Xiao Chen, Jiayi Chen, Xiaodong Chen, Duu-Jong Lee, Guoxiu Wang

The electrochemical performance of all-solid-state lithium batteries (ASSLBs) can be prominently enhanced by minimizing the detrimental degradation of solid electrolytes through their undesirable side reactions with the conductive carbon additives (CCAs) inside the composite cathodes. Herein, the well-defined Mo3Ni3N nanosheets embedded onto the N-doped porous carbons (NPCs) substrate are successfully synthesized (Mo-Ni@NPCs) as CCAs inside LiCoO2 for Li6PSC5Cl (LPSCl)-based ASSLBs. This nano-composite not only makes it difficult for hydroxide groups (–OH) to survive on the surface but also allows the in situ surface reconstruction to generate the ultra-stable MoS2-Mo3Ni3N heterostructures after the initial cycling stage. These can effectively prevent the occurrence of OH-induced LPSC decomposition reaction from producing harmful insulating sulfates, as well as simultaneously constructing the highly-efficient electrons/ions dual-migration pathways at the cathode interfaces to facilitate the improvement of both electrons and Li+ ions conductivities in ASSLBs. With this approach, fine-tuned Mo-Ni@NPCs can deliver extremely outstanding performance, including an ultra-high first discharge-specific capacity of 148.61 mAh g−1 (0.1C), a high Coulombic efficiency (94.01%), and a capacity retention rate after 1000 cycles still attain as high as 90.62%. This work provides a brand-new approach of “conversion-protection” strategy to overcome the drawbacks of composite cathodes interfaces instability and further promotes the commercialization of ASSLBs.

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Nano-Micro Letters•2025

Ultra-High Sensitivity Anisotropic Piezoelectric Sensors for Structural Health Monitoring and Robotic Perception

Authors: Hao Yin, Yanting Li, Zhiying Tian, Qichao Li, Chenhui Jiang, Enfu Liang, Yiping Guo

Monitoring minuscule mechanical signals, both in magnitude and direction, is imperative in many application scenarios, e.g., structural health monitoring and robotic sensing systems. However, the piezoelectric sensor struggles to satisfy the requirements for directional recognition due to the limited piezoelectric coefficient matrix, and achieving sensitivity for detecting micrometer-scale deformations is also challenging. Herein, we develop a vector sensor composed of lead zirconate titanate-electronic grade glass fiber composite filaments with oriented arrangement, capable of detecting minute anisotropic deformations. The as-prepared vector sensor can identify the deformation directions even when subjected to an unprecedented nominal strain of 0.06%, thereby enabling its utility in accurately discerning the 5 μm-height wrinkles in thin films and in monitoring human pulse waves. The ultra-high sensitivity is attributed to the formation of porous ferroelectret and the efficient load transfer efficiency of continuous lead zirconate titanate phase. Additionally, when integrated with machine learning techniques, the sensor's capability to recognize multi-signals enables it to differentiate between 10 types of fine textures with 100% accuracy. The structural design in piezoelectric devices enables a more comprehensive perception of mechanical stimuli, offering a novel perspective for enhancing recognition accuracy.

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Nano-Micro Letters•2025

Cost Effectivities Analysis of Perovskite Solar Cells: Will it Outperform Crystalline Silicon Ones?

Authors: Yingming Liu, Ziyang Zhang, Tianhao Wu, Wenxiang Xiang, Zhenzhen Qin, Xiangqian Shen, Yong Peng, Wenzhong Shen, Yongfang Li, Liyuan Han

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.

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Nano-Micro Letters•2025

100% Conversion of CO2–CH4 with Non-Precious Co@ZnO Catalyst in Hot Water

Authors: Yang Yang, Xu Liu, Daoping He, Fangming Jin

The combination of solar energy and natural hydrothermal systems will innovate the chemistry of CO2 hydrogenation; however, the approach remains challenging due to the lack of robust and cost-effective catalytic system. Here, Zn which can be recycled with solar energy-induced approach was chosen as the reductant and Co as catalyst to achieve robust hydrothermal CO2 methanation. Nanosheets of honeycomb ZnO were grown in situ on the Co surface, resulting in a new motif (Co@ZnO catalyst) that inhibits Co deactivation through ZnO-assisted CoOx reduction. The stabilized Co and interaction between Co and ZnO functioned collaboratively toward the full conversion of CO2–CH4. In situ hydrothermal infrared spectroscopy confirmed the formation of formic acid as an intermediate, thereby avoiding CO formation and unwanted side reaction pathways. This study presents a straightforward one-step process for both highly efficient CO2 conversion and catalyst synthesis, paving the way for solar-driven CO2 methanation.

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Nano-Micro Letters•2025

An Overview of Dynamic Descriptions for Nanoscale Materials in Particulate Photocatalytic Systems from Spatiotemporal Perspectives

Authors: Jiawei Yan, Zhidong Wei, Kai Takagi, Masaya Motodate, Zhi Jiang, Chiaki Terashima, Wenfeng Shangguan

Particulate photocatalytic systems using nanoscale photocatalysts have been developed as an attractive promising route for solar energy utilization to achieve resource sustainability and environmental harmony. Dynamic obstacles are considered as the dominant inhibition for attaining satisfactory energy-conversion efficiency. The complexity in light absorption and carrier transfer behaviors has remained to be further clearly illuminated. It is challenging to trace the fast evolution of charge carriers involved in transfer migration and interfacial reactions within a micro–nano-single-particle photocatalyst, which requires spatiotemporal high resolution. In this review, comprehensive dynamic descriptions including irradiation field, carrier separation and transfer, and interfacial reaction processes have been elucidated and discussed. The corresponding mechanisms for revealing dynamic behaviors have been explained. In addition, numerical simulation and modeling methods have been illustrated for the description of the irradiation field. Experimental measurements and spatiotemporal characterizations have been clarified for the reflection of carrier behavior and probing detection of interfacial reactions. The representative applications have been introduced according to the reported advanced research works, and the relationships between mechanistic conclusions from variable spatiotemporal measurements and photocatalytic performance results in the specific photocatalytic reactions have been concluded. This review provides a collective perspective for the full understanding and thorough evaluation of the primary dynamic processes, which would be inspired for the improvement in designing solar-driven energy-conversion systems based on nanoscale particulate photocatalysts.

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Nano-Micro Letters•2025

Enhanced Conductivity of Multilayer Copper–Carbon Nanofilms via Plasma Immersion Deposition

Authors: Haotian Weng, Xiwu Zhang, Xuan Liu, Yunhui Tang, Hewei Yuan, Yang Xu, Kun Li, Xiaolu Huang

Although room-temperature superconductivity is still difficult to achieve, researching materials with electrical conductivity significantly higher than that of copper will be of great importance in improving energy efficiency, reducing costs, lightening equipment weight, and enhancing overall performance. Herein, this study presents a novel copper–carbon nanofilm composite with enhanced conductivity which has great applications in the electronic devices and electrical equipment. Multilayer copper–carbon nanofilms and interfaces with superior electronic structures are formed based on copper materials using plasma immersion nanocarbon layer deposition technology, effectively enhancing conductivity. Experimental results show that for a five-layer copper–carbon nanofilm composite, the conductivity improves significantly when the thickness of the carbon nanofilm increases. When the carbon nanofilm accounts for 16% of the total thickness, the overall conductivity increases up to 30.20% compared to pure copper. The mechanism of the enhanced conductivity is analyzed including roles of copper atom adsorption sites and electron migration pathways by applying effective medium theory, first-principles calculations and density of states analysis. Under an applied electric field, the high-density electrons in the copper film can migrate into the nanocarbon film, forming highly efficient electron transport channels, which significantly enhance the material’s conductivity. Finally, large-area electrode coating equipment is developed based on this study, providing the novel and robust strategy to enhance the conductivity of copper materials, which enables industrial application of copper–carbon nanocomposite films in the field of high conductivity materials.

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Nano-Micro Letters•2025

An Unprecedented Efficiency with Approaching 21% Enabled by Additive-Assisted Layer-by-Layer Processing in Organic Solar Cells

Authors: Shuai Xu, Youdi Zhang, Yanna Sun, Pei Cheng, Zhaoyang Yao, Ning Li, Long Ye, Lijian Zuo, Ke Gao

Recently published in Joule, Feng Liu and colleagues from Shanghai Jiaotong University reported a record-breaking 20.8% power conversion efficiency in organic solar cells (OSCs) with an interpenetrating fibril network active layer morphology, featuring a bulk p-i-n structure and proper vertical segregation achieved through additive-assisted layer-by-layer deposition. This optimized hierarchical gradient fibrillar morphology and optical management synergistically facilitates exciton diffusion, reduces recombination losses, and enhances light capture capability. This approach not only offers a solution to achieving high-efficiency devices but also demonstrates the potential for commercial applications of OSCs.

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Nano-Micro Letters•2025

Defect Engineering: Can it Mitigate Strong Coulomb Effect of Mg2+ in Cathode Materials for Rechargeable Magnesium Batteries?

Authors: Zhengqing Fan, Ruimin Li, Xin Zhang, Wanyu Zhao, Zhenghui Pan, Xiaowei Yang

Rechargeable magnesium batteries (RMBs) have been considered a promising “post lithium-ion battery” system to meet the rapidly increasing demand of the emerging electric vehicle and grid energy storage market. However, the sluggish diffusion kinetics of bivalent Mg2+ in the host material, related to the strong Coulomb effect between Mg2+ and host anion lattices, hinders their further development toward practical applications. Defect engineering, regarded as an effective strategy to break through the slow migration puzzle, has been validated in various cathode materials for RMBs. In this review, we first thoroughly understand the intrinsic mechanism of Mg2+ diffusion in cathode materials, from which the key factors affecting ion diffusion are further presented. Then, the positive effects of purposely introduced defects, including vacancy and doping, and the corresponding strategies for introducing various defects are discussed. The applications of defect engineering in cathode materials for RMBs with advanced electrochemical properties are also summarized. Finally, the existing challenges and future perspectives of defect engineering in cathode materials for the overall high-performance RMBs are described.

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Nano-Micro Letters•2025

Achieving Wide-Temperature-Range Physical and Chemical Hydrogen Sorption in a Structural Optimized Mg/N-Doped Porous Carbon Nanocomposite

Authors: Yinghui Li, Li Ren, Zi Li, Yingying Yao, Xi Lin, Wenjiang Ding, Andrea C. Ferrari, Jianxin Zou

Nanoconfinement is a promising approach to simultaneously enhance the thermodynamics, kinetics, and cycling stability of hydrogen storage materials. The introduction of supporting scaffolds usually causes a reduction in the total hydrogen storage capacity due to “dead weight.” Here, we synthesize an optimized N-doped porous carbon (rN-pC) without heavy metal as supporting scaffold to confine Mg/MgH2 nanoparticles (Mg/MgH2@rN-pC). rN-pC with 60 wt% loading capacity of Mg (denoted as 60 Mg@rN-pC) can adsorb and desorb 0.62 wt% H2 on the rN-pC scaffold. The nanoconfined MgH2 can be chemically dehydrided at 175 °C, providing ~3.59 wt% H2 with fast kinetics (fully dehydrogenated at 300 °C within 15 min). This study presents the first realization of nanoconfined Mg-based system with adsorption-active scaffolds. Besides, the nanoconfined MgH2 formation enthalpy is reduced to ~68 kJ mol−1 H2 from ~75 kJ mol−1 H2 for pure MgH2. The composite can be also compressed to nanostructured pellets, with volumetric H2 density reaching 33.4 g L−1 after 500 MPa compression pressure, which surpasses the 24 g L−1 volumetric capacity of 350 bar compressed H2. Our approach can be implemented to the design of hybrid H2 storage materials with enhanced capacity and desorption rate.

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Int. Journal of Minerals, Metallurgy and Materials (矿物冶金与材料学报)•2025

Effects of direct aging on mechanical properties and microstructure of TiB2/AlSi7Mg alloy fabricated by laser powder bed fusion

Authors: Yirui Chang, Tingting Chen, Yang Li, Yihao Wang, Yuchi Cui, Wenjun Zhao, Yi Wu, Mingliang Wang, Haowei Wang, Zhe Chen

The effects of direct aging (DA) on the microstructure and mechanical properties of TiB2/AlSi7Mg alloys fabricated via laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) were systematically investigated. DA significantly improves strength while maintaining satisfactory ductility. Optimal performance is obtained through under-aging (UA) at 150°C for 4 h, resulting in a yield strength of 361 MPa, tensile strength of 503 MPa, and elongation of 9.1% in the horizontal direction. DA does not substantially alter the grain size or cellular structure but promotes the formation of nanoprecipitates within the α-Al matrix. Specifically, UA induces dot-like and needle-like Si precipitates, whereas over-aging (OA) additionally generates short rod-like β'-Mg1.8Si phases. The strengthening mechanism is attributed to the Hall–Petch effect associated with grain and cell boundaries, and the Orowan mechanism induced by nanoprecipitates. Work-hardening behavior is governed by interactions between dislocations and nanoprecipitates. The OA sample exhibits rapid saturation of work hardening due to a high initial hardening rate and dynamic recovery of dislocations, resulting in limited uniform elongation. In contrast, the UA sample demonstrates a more balanced work hardening response. These findings provide theoretical and experimental validation of DA as an effective post-processing approach aimed at enhancing the performance of LPBF Al–Si–Mg alloys in engineering applications.

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Int. Journal of Minerals, Metallurgy and Materials (矿物冶金与材料学报)•2025

Orbital hybridization-engineered electronic structure in multicomponent sulfides boosts the performance of polysulfide/iodide flow batteries

Authors: Wenjing Li, Renhua Qian, Boxu Dong, Zhou Xu, Changyu Yan, Menghan Yang, Yuxuan Liu, Xinrui Yan, Jiantao Zai, Xuefeng Qian

Despite their attractive features of high energy density, low cost, and safety, polysulfide/iodide flow batteries (SIFBs) are hampered by the sluggish kinetics of the iodide redox couple, which restricts overall performance. Multicomponent sulfides are demonstrated as promising catalysts for accelerating redox reactions. Concurrently, the enhanced configurational entropy arising from multinary compositions drives synergistic effects among constituent elements, establishing a viable pathway to optimize catalytic performance. Building on these foundations, this work introduces a targeted orbital hybridization-optimized electron density strategy to enhance the catalytic activity. Implementing this concept, we developed an in-situ solvothermal synthesis process for an entropy-enhanced AgCuZnSnS4 loaded graphite felt (ACZTS/GF) electrode. The engineered electrode demonstrates exceptional electrocatalytic performance with improved bulk conductivity and interfacial charge transfer kinetics within a SIFB. The cell achieves a high energy efficiency of 88.5% at 20 mA·cm−2 with 10% state-of-charge. Furthermore, the battery delivers a maximum power density of 119.8 mW·cm−2 and exhibits excellent long-term cycling stability. These significant results stem from orbital hybridization-driven electronic state optimization and entropy effect-induced synergistic catalysis.

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Int. Journal of Minerals, Metallurgy and Materials (矿物冶金与材料学报)•2025

Multiphysics modeling of dendritic thermomechanical deformation during the directional solidification of nickel-based single-crystal superalloys

Authors: Luwei Yang, Neng Ren, Mingxu Xia, Jun Li, Jianguo Li

Nickel-based single-crystal (SX) superalloys are the key metallic materials of aeroengines. However, thermomechanical deformation always occurs during the directional solidification of SX superalloys, negatively influencing the SX structure. Casting deformation is simulated in most of the previous studies, whereas the direct simulation of dendritic thermomechanical deformation has been largely ignored, resulting in a lack of comprehensive understanding of this process. In this study, we systematically investigate dendritic thermomechanical deformation with a model coupled with dendrite growth, fluid flow, and thermomechanical deformation behavior. Results reveal that the dendritic thermomechanical deformation-induced dendrite bending is not randomly distributed but is mainly concentrated on the casting surface. The dendritic thermal stress increases as dendrite grows and accumulates after dendrite bridging. Transverse thermal contraction mainly occurs at the edge of casting in the corner, and axial thermal contraction is larger than transverse contraction. The high-stress region of the primary dendrite trunk is mainly distributed below the dendrite bridging near the solidified part, and the stress along the transverse direction reaches its maximum value on the casting surface. Stress concentrated on the casting surface is mainly attributed to variations in transverse temperature gradients caused by heat dissipation on the lateral mold wall, and inconsistent constraints in the lateral mold walls.

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Int. Journal of Minerals, Metallurgy and Materials (矿物冶金与材料学报)•2025

In-situ research on tensile deformation and microvoid formation in a nuclear pressure vessel steel

Authors: Zhifeng Zhang, Daming Tong, Xingyun Yang, Xiaofang Wang, Lizhan Han, Guanghua Yan, Chuanwei Li, Jianfeng Gu

Tensile deformation and microvoid formation of quenched and tempered SA508 Gr.3 steel were studied using an in-situ digital image correlation technique and in-situ electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) measurements. The quenched steel with a mixture of upper bainite and granular bainite exhibited a high ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of ~795 MPa and an elongation of ~25%. After tempering, long-rod carbides and accumulated carbide particles were formed at the interface of bainite–ferrite subunits and prior austenite grain boundaries (PAGBs), respectively. The UTS of the tempered steel decreased to ~607 MPa, whereas the total elongation increased to 33.0% with a local strain of 191.0% at the necked area. In-situ EBSD results showed that strain localization in the bainite–ferrite produced lattice rotation and dislocation pileup, thus leading to stress concentration at the discontinuities (e.g., martensite–austenite islands and carbides). Consequently, the decohesion of PAGBs dotted with martensite–austenite islands was the dominant microvoid initiation mechanism in the quenched steel, whereas microvoids primarily initiated through the fracturing of long-rod carbides and the decohesion of PAGBs with carbides aggregation in the tempered steel. The fracture surfaces for both the quenched and tempered specimens featured dimples, indicating the ductile failure mechanism caused by microvoid coalescence.

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Int. Journal of Minerals, Metallurgy and Materials (矿物冶金与材料学报)•2025

In-situ observation on bubble evolution during laser powder bed fusion of oxide ceramic

Authors: Zhun Su, Wenquan Lu, Zongye Ding, Liang Zhao, Fan Yang, Jianguo Li, Qiaodan Hu

Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) is used to fabricate complex-shaped, dense, and high-performance oxide ceramics. During LPBF, bubbles form and evolve in the melt pool and ultimately remain in the printed ceramics as pores, which significantly degrade the mechanical properties. Therefore, it is essential to understand the bubble behaviors during LPBF. Herein, we conducted an in-situ investigation of the bubble dynamics in the melt pool of homogeneously mixed Al2O3–Y2O3 powders using synchrotron high-speed X-ray imaging. The formation, growth, motion, and evolution of bubbles, as well as the relationship between the instability of melt flow and bubble rupture during LPBF, were elucidated. The findings reveal that bubbles from the interstices within the powder bed grow following three distinct modes, i.e., uplift growth, gas channel attachment, and bubble coalescence. Furthermore, melt flow oscillations caused by the bursting of large bubbles can lead to local instability of the melt pool. Results from this study enhance the understanding of bubble dynamics during LPBF and may provide valuable insights for pore elimination in LPBF-processed oxide ceramics.

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