# SinoTechIntel - Premier Academic & Scientific Research Intelligence Database

> SinoTechIntel (https://sinotechintel.com) provides verified English translations of authentic Chinese engineering, metallurgical, UAV swarm, and advanced materials research papers from leading indexed repositories including Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and top university laboratories.

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## Top 150 Indexed Research Publications (Curated Intelligence Previews)

### [Study on the effect of diketone lubricant on the tribological properties of angular contact ball bearings with skidding behavior](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/study-on-the-effect-of-diketone-lubricant-on-the-tribological-properties-of-angular-contact-ball-bearings-with) [DOI: 10.26599/FRICT.2026.9441214]
Skidding in angular contact ball bearings significantly increases friction, wear, and temperature, adversely affecting bearing performance and service life. Despite its critical impact, systematic investigations of lubrication behavior under skidding conditions remain scarce, with conventional lubricants often failing to provide stable low-friction operation. To address this gap, this study first calculated critical skidding parameters using a quasi-static model. Subsequently, experimental parameters for bearings with and without skidding were selected to evaluate tribological behaviors under three lubricants: base oil, commercial lubricant, and a diketone-based lubricant (PAO = 14 (20%)). Results demonstrate that under skidding conditions, the diketone lubricant achieved the lowest coefficient of friction (COF) of 0.0008 and temperature rise of 2.8 °C. Furthermore, diketone-lubricated bearings exhibited excellent anti-wear performance and an extremely short running-in period. The superior tribological performance is attributed to the synergistic effect of diketone molecular adsorption and chelation with iron atoms, which reduces friction and temperature rise. These findings highlight the potential of diketone lubricants to enhance bearing performance and durability under extreme operating conditions.

### [Steady Shear Rheological Response of Ferrofluids Containing Hydrophilic Fumed Silica under Magnetic Fields](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/steady-shear-rheological-response-of-ferrofluids-containing-hydrophilic-fumed-silica-under-magnetic-fields) [DOI: 10.26599/FRICT.2025.9441210]
This study investigates the steady shear rheological behavior of water-based ferrofluids composited with hydrophilic fumed silica under different magnetic field strengths, with particular attention paid to avoiding gelation that reduces fluidity. Seven composite ferrofluid samples were prepared and characterized. By adjusting the silica particle size and volume fraction, their effects on viscosity and yield stress were explored. As a result, pronounced shear-thinning behavior is observed in this dispersion, with their flow curves under different magnetic field strengths effectively scaled by the Mason number. A higher silica concentration or larger particle size increases the critical Mason number, showing that field-induced structures become more stable. In contrast, only high silica concentrations significantly enhance shear thinning, as reflected by a larger flow index, whereas particle size has little influence. Yield stress analysis further shows that macroscopic models capture normalized Bingham yield stress, while microscopic models better predict normalized static yield stress. Overall, this work demonstrates that hydrophilic fumed silica offers a simple and effective route for tuning the magnetorheology of water-based ferrofluids without inducing gelation, ensuring controllable rheology and good fluidity.

### [Slippery Liquid-Infused Porous Surface with Layered Double Hydroxides for Enhanced Corrosion and Wear Resistance of TC4 Alloys](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/slippery-liquid-infused-porous-surface-with-layered-double-hydroxides-for-enhanced-corrosion-and-wear-resistan) [DOI: 10.26599/FRICT.2025.9441191]
Titanium alloys, particularly TC4 (Ti–6Al–4V), suffer from poor tribological performance and susceptibility to pitting corrosion, limiting their application in marine and biomedical fields. Layered double hydroxide (LDH) coatings offer potential protection but are hindered by the dense oxide layer on titanium alloys. In this study, a ZnAl LDH coating was fabricated on TC4 via in situ growth, followed by molybdate anion intercalation through ion exchange. A biomimetic slippery liquid-infused porous surface (SLIPS) was then created by UV-grafting polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) onto the nanoporous LDH structure. The resulting surface exhibited excellent hydrophobicity, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance. Electrochemical tests (Tafel polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy) demonstrated superior corrosion protection, with a low corrosion current density of 2.34×10−7 A/cm2. The infused silicone oil and ZnAl LDH nanosheets synergistically improved wear performance compared to bare TC4. This work provides insights into controllable in situ fabrication of LDH coatings and offers a novel strategy for broadening TC4 alloy applications in metal protection.

### [Molecular Dynamics Simulations Addressing Atomic-Scale Core Issues in Chemical Mechanical Polishing and Post-CMP Cleaning: A Concise Review](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/molecular-dynamics-simulations-addressing-atomic-scale-core-issues-in-chemical-mechanical-polishing-and-post-c) [DOI: 10.26599/FRICT.2025.9441197]
Chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) and post-CMP cleaning are critical steps in semiconductor manufacturing, requiring atomic-scale flatness and complete removal of contaminants. This review examines the use of molecular dynamics (MD) simulations to elucidate atomic-scale mechanisms underlying these processes, focusing on four major MD methodologies: classical MD, reactive force field MD (ReaxFF), tight-binding quantum chemical MD (TB-QC MD), and ab initio MD (AIMD). Classical MD provides a foundation for simulating large-scale systems but lacks accuracy for modeling chemical reactions. ReaxFF allows real-time bond breaking and formation simulations during CMP. TB-QC MD combines quantum accuracy with classical efficiency, enabling exploration of chemical reaction effects on friction and material removal. AIMD directly calculates atomic interactions for precise depictions of chemical processes, albeit with high computational cost. MD simulations act as a 'computational microscope', enhancing CMP and postcleaning processes by quantifying interactions, material removal pathways, and contaminant desorption. Future research should address multiscale modeling challenges, improve AIMD efficiency, and develop accurate potential functions to propel semiconductor manufacturing toward greater precision and efficiency.

### [Manipulating the Conversion of Nanoscale Wear Debris into Tribofilm for Wear Reduction of Steel](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/manipulating-the-conversion-of-nanoscale-wear-debris-into-tribofilm-for-wear-reduction-of-steel) [DOI: 10.26599/FRICT.2025.9441207]
Wear debris particles play a crucial role in frictional interfaces. Conventional understanding holds that debris accumulation causes severe wear. Interestingly, the debris from metal friction pairs includes anti-wear metal oxides generated by tribochemical reactions, which can form a protective oxidation film to resist wear. However, minimizing the abrasive damage caused by accumulated debris and using the anti-wear property of the metal oxides can be mutually exclusive. Here, a rational design of a coupling surface that manipulates nanoscale wear debris to resist further wear is reported. It consists of surface textures used to capture and temporarily store excess nanoscale wear debris, a deposited self-cleaning coating that subsequently helps transfer part of the captured debris into the sliding-contact interface, where it converts into a protective oxidation film. The coexistence of the two elements with contrasting properties in manipulating nanoscale wear debris considerably reduces wear under conditions of water lubrication, oil lubrication, and macroscale superlubricity. Our strategy achieves the manipulation and utilization of wear debris for anti-wear purposes. This work holds the potential to promote further investigation into the role of nanoscale wear debris and its utilization approaches.

### [Research Progress and Application Prospects of Nanocomposites in Lubricants](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/research-progress-and-application-prospects-of-nanocomposites-in-lubricants) [DOI: 10.26599/FRICT.2026.9441213]
Nanocomposites have attracted significant attention as lubricant additives due to their advantages in reducing friction, enhancing wear resistance, and improving thermal and oxidative stability. In recent years, increasing research has explored how different types of nanomaterials (such as carbon-based materials, metallic nanoparticles, and ceramic phases) can use synergistic effects to achieve performance surpassing that of their single components. This review focuses on relevant studies published between 2020 and 2025, providing an updated overview of the advantages, synthesis methods, structures, dispersion stability, lubrication mechanisms, and tribological behavior of nanocomposites. Various structural types are discussed, including core–shell, layered, and in situ hybrid systems, along with their fabrication routes, such as sol–gel processing, hydrothermal synthesis, and surface modification strategies. The lubrication mechanism of nanocomposites is analyzed based on the material structure and the testing conditions. Particular attention is paid to the synergistic effects among multiple components within the nanocomposites and to how these synergies enhance tribological performance. Furthermore, the challenges faced by nanocomposites and potential future developments are discussed. This review aims to clarify the current status of nanocomposites as lubricant additives and facilitate their future application in advanced lubrication systems.

### [Study of Lubricating Nanocoatings for Cardiovascular Catheters Based on Molecular Self-Assembly and Schiff Base Reactions](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/study-of-lubricating-nanocoatings-for-cardiovascular-catheters-based-on-molecular-self-assembly-and-schiff-bas) [DOI: 10.26599/FRICT.2025.9441201]
During cardiovascular interventional surgeries, catheters contact vascular tissues, causing friction, collisions, and compression that may damage tissue. Surface engineering is essential to modify catheter surfaces. Effective coatings require high adhesion strength to prevent peeling from the inner surface, while the outer surface must provide excellent lubricity and biocompatibility. In this study, layer-by-layer (LbL) technique was employed to introduce catechol-modified chitosan (CC) and dopamine-modified oxidized hyaluronic acid (DOHA), forming a nanoscale, superhydrophilic, strongly adhesive, and biocompatible coating on cardiovascular catheters. Tight binding of CC and DOHA results from electrostatic interactions, chemical reactions, and catechol group enrichment, yielding an adhesion strength of up to 1 MPa. These CC/DOHA multilayers greatly enhance lubrication of the TPU substrate, reducing the coefficient of friction (COF) by up to 95% compared with the uncoated state. After a 30-min friction test, the COF of the CC/DOHA16 coating only slightly increased from 0.032 to 0.044, demonstrating excellent stability. Evaluations revealed a reduction in vascular intima damage from grade 5 without coating to grade 3, confirming the coating's effectiveness in minimizing friction-induced damage.

### [Thermal–environmental effects on degradation of railway ballast aggregates: a climate change perspective](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/thermalenvironmental-effects-on-degradation-of-railway-ballast-aggregates-a-climate-change-perspective) [DOI: 10.1007/s40534-025-00412-5]
Climate change imposes multifaceted stresses on railway infrastructure, particularly ballasted tracks, where ballast degradation drives maintenance costs. This study quantifies the durability of ballast aggregates under simulated thermal and environmental conditions representative of climate change scenarios. Laboratory tests subjected aggregates to temperature extremes from −20°C to +100°C, freeze–thaw cycles, and sulfate attacks. Durability was assessed via Los Angeles abrasion, micro-Deval wear, crushing resistance, impact performance, and breakage potential. Results demonstrate that sulfate attacks, freeze–thaw cycles, extreme cold, and extreme warm conditions degrade durability by averages of 50%, 20%, 40%, and 35%, respectively. Empirical formulations were derived to estimate degradation indices as functions of thermal and environmental stressors. These findings underscore the critical influence of climate-driven conditions on ballast longevity and provide a basis for climate-adaptive railway design and maintenance planning.

### [Research Progress on Design, Fabrication, Mechanical Properties, and Shock-Induced Energy Release Characteristics of Reactive Tungsten Alloys](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/research-progress-on-design-fabrication-mechanical-properties-and-shock-induced-energy-release-characteristics) [DOI: 10.11943/CJEM2026028]
Reactive tungsten alloys (RTAs) are a class of metallic energetic structural materials that combine a high-density tungsten skeleton with reactive elements such as Zr and Ti, offering synergistic capabilities of high-strength load bearing, kinetic penetration, and shock-induced energy release. This review systematically examines the composition design and fabrication methods of RTAs, detailing their typical microstructural characteristics and the structure–mechanical property relationships. It summarizes penetration behavior and energy release characterization under high-velocity impact, and outlines future directions including machine-learning-assisted multi-objective design, development of large-scale component forming technologies, and establishment of multi-scale constitutive models to elucidate penetration and energy release mechanisms. The review highlights that RTAs can achieve dynamic compressive strengths exceeding 2 GPa and densities above 10 g·cm−3, while the addition of elements such as Ti and Nb suppresses the formation of brittle W2Zr intermetallics, improving ductility. Challenges remain in balancing strength, energy release, and processability, particularly in solid-state sintering above 1500 °C. The paper provides a comprehensive foundation for the design and engineering application of high-density reactive tungsten alloys.

### [Effect of Particle Size on Ignition and Combustion Performance of Al-Li-Mg Alloys](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/effect-of-particle-size-on-ignition-and-combustion-performance-of-al-li-mg-alloys) [DOI: 10.11943/CJEM2026021]
To elucidate the influence mechanism of particle size on the ignition and combustion behavior of Al-Li-Mg alloys, four alloy powders with median diameters of 9, 13, 16, and 24 μm were systematically investigated. Physicochemical properties were characterized by laser diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, simultaneous thermal analysis, and oxygen bomb calorimetry. Ignition and combustion behaviors were assessed using a laser ignition test bench equipped with high-speed photography and fiber-optic spectrometry. Results show that with increasing particle size, ignition delay time first decreases sharply then stabilizes, dropping from 135 ms (9 μm) to 51 ms (13 μm), then to 15 ms (16 μm) and 18 ms (24 μm). Combustion intensity, indicated by maximum spectral intensity, decreases from 7300.4 (9 μm) to 1721.6 (24 μm). Combustion duration initially extends slightly then stabilizes, from 857 ms (9 μm) to 928 ms (13 μm) and approximately 920 ms for larger sizes. Notably, the 13 μm alloy achieves an optimal balance among ignition delay (51 ms), combustion duration (928 ms), and combustion intensity (6041.8). The study reveals a critical size effect: between 13 and 16 μm, ignition delay drops by 71% while combustion intensity decreases by 54%, indicating a transition from surface-diffusion-controlled to micro-explosion-dominated combustion. This mechanism arises from competition between heat conduction and elemental diffusion: larger particles restrict heat transfer, promoting Li and Mg surface enrichment and temperature gradients that induce micro-explosions, thereby shortening ignition delay but reducing combustion efficiency and intensity.

### [Research Progress on Dynamic Response and Energy Release Mechanisms of Reactive Damage Elements](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/research-progress-on-dynamic-response-and-energy-release-mechanisms-of-reactive-damage-elements) [DOI: 10.11943/CJEM2025272]
Reactive damage elements (RDEs) integrate kinetic penetration with chemical energy release, offering a dual-mode damage mechanism. This review systematically examines the state-of-the-art in RDE reaction mechanisms, penetration-reaction coupled damage models, numerical simulation methods, and dynamic loading experiments. Two-stage reaction mechanisms—shock-induced and shock-assisted—are elaborated, along with thermo-mechanical-chemical coupling theory and reaction threshold regulation. Penetration depth and hole-enlargement models, aftereffect overpressure and ignition models, fragment cloud distribution and damage radius models are summarized. Advances in reactive material equations of state, SPH-ALE multi-physics coupling algorithms, and cross-scale modeling methods are consolidated, alongside multi-physics synchronous testing and target damage assessment systems. Key findings include: Al-Ni-W systems achieve densities up to 7.8 g·cm⁻³ and tensile strengths exceeding 300 MPa, maintaining structural integrity at 2000 m·s⁻¹. PTFE/Al formulations exhibit shock-induced reactions in nanoseconds, while shock-assisted reactions occur over microseconds to milliseconds, with oxide additives like MoO₃ lowering reaction thresholds and enhancing energy release. Future directions emphasize precise reaction degree control via cross-scale models, universal damage assessment under extreme environments, and field testing using characteristic spectra and electromagnetic pulses. This review provides a comprehensive framework for advancing RDE technology in munitions and protective applications.

### [Solving the Railway Timetable Rescheduling Problem with Graph Neural Networks](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/solving-the-railway-timetable-rescheduling-problem-with-graph-neural-networks) [DOI: 10.1007/s40534-025-00383-7]
This study addresses the train timetable rescheduling (TTR) problem from a novel perspective, focusing on the actions of train traffic controllers: adjusting dwelling times, running times, and train orders. To enhance interpretability, we propose a graph neural network (GNN) approach that maps train timetable data into evolution graphs, aligning with the operational paradigm of train processes. Two experiments are conducted: node-level prediction of dwelling and running times, and edge-level overtaking identification using the proposed Overtaking Identification Algorithm (OIA). The integrated GNN-OIA framework, combined with train operation constraints, generates rescheduling solutions. Experimental results demonstrate satisfactory predictive performance. Under diverse delay scenarios, the proposed method outperforms three standard rule-based benchmarks in reducing train delays for disturbed train groups. Additionally, the model exhibits high computational efficiency across three rescheduling scenarios, indicating its applicability for real-time train dispatching. The study underscores the potential of data-driven approaches in capturing dynamic interactions and cascading effects, offering a promising alternative to traditional mathematical programming and simulation methods.

### [Hydrogenation-Dehydrogenation Preparation of TiZrNbTa Refractory High-Entropy Alloy Powder](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/hydrogenation-dehydrogenation-preparation-of-tizrnbta-refractory-high-entropy-alloy-powder) [DOI: 10.11943/CJEM2026026]
TiZrNbTa refractory high-entropy alloy (RHEA) is an active alloy with excellent mechanical properties and energy release characteristics. However, its high and disparate melting points of constituent elements and wide liquid-solid two-phase region hinder large-scale forming via conventional casting. Powder metallurgy offers a viable route, but obtaining suitable powder is critical. This study systematically investigated the hydrogenation-dehydrogenation (HDH) process for preparing equimolar TiZrNbTa RHEA powder. The as-cast alloy was hydrogenated at 550 °C under 0.25 MPa hydrogen pressure for 2 h, transforming the BCC solid solution into metal hydrides (ZrH2, TiH2, and (Nb,Ta)H). Mechanical crushing yielded irregular hydride powder with an average particle size (D50) of 11.13 μm, and hydrogen and oxygen contents of 1.823% and 0.111%, respectively. Subsequent vacuum dehydrogenation at 450 °C for 1.5 h produced single-phase BCC TiZrNbTa powder with significantly reduced hydrogen (0.028%) and slightly increased oxygen (0.121%) contents, and a narrower particle size distribution with D50 reduced to 5.67 μm. The results demonstrate that the HDH process is an effective method for producing low-oxygen TiZrNbTa RHEA powder with suitable particle size for powder metallurgy applications.

### [Preparation and Performance of Epoxy Resin Cured Compounds with High Mechanical Strength and Energy-release Capability for Reactive Warhead Casings](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/preparation-and-performance-of-epoxy-resin-cured-compounds-with-high-mechanical-strength-and-energy-release-ca) [DOI: 10.11943/CJEM2026036]
To address the issue that resin matrices in carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites cannot participate in explosive energy release when used in warhead casings, an epoxy resin cured compound with both high mechanical properties and high energy-release characteristics was prepared by introducing more easily pyrolyzable polyether segments and fluoropolymer-coated nano-aluminum powder into a high-rigidity epoxy cured compound. The crosslinked network structure, mechanical properties, thermal decomposition characteristics, ignition and combustion characteristics, and energy-release performance were characterized using infrared spectroscopy, quasi-static mechanical testing, TG-DSC, laser ignition testing, and closed bomb testing. Results show that the cured compound has a well-formed crosslinked network, a tensile strength of 72.41 MPa, an initial thermal decomposition temperature of approximately 273 °C, a minimum ignition energy reduced to 1.77 J, a maximum pressure rise rate of 0.407 MPa·ms⁻¹, and a peak pressure increased to 5.935 MPa in closed bomb tests. The introduction of polyether segments and fluoropolymer-coated nano-aluminum enhances the energy release rate and total energy release, making the material a potential resin matrix for CFRP-based reactive structural materials.

### [Simulation Study on Heat Transfer Characteristics of Continuous Synthesis Process of 3-Amino-4-aminoximiofurazan](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/simulation-study-on-heat-transfer-characteristics-of-continuous-synthesis-process-of-3-amino-4-aminoximiofuraz) [DOI: 10.11943/CJEM2026051]
The channel reactor offers advantages of high-efficiency mass and heat transfer, providing a basis for transitioning mixed-controlled strongly exothermic reactions from batch to continuous industrial production. This study focuses on the synthesis of 3-amino-4-aminoximiofurazan (AAOF). Reaction calorimetry experiments provided fundamental heat release data, which, combined with material and energy balances, yielded exothermic model parameters for a channel reactor. A heat transfer-exothermic model was constructed, and numerical solutions simulated jacket heat transfer, heat transfer rates, and heat exchange medium effectiveness. Thermal safety risks in the continuous flow process were analyzed, leading to a heat exchange control strategy. Results show that for a reactor tube of 0.01 m diameter and 5 m length, producing AAOF at 2 kg·h⁻¹ with heat transfer oil in co-current flow, the mass flow rate significantly affects safety: below 0.1 kg·h⁻¹, outlet temperature exceeds 120 °C, approaching the onset decomposition temperature (121.7 °C), risking thermal accumulation and runaway; optimal heat removal occurs at 2–3.5 kg·h⁻¹; above 4.5 kg·h⁻¹, temperature drops below 100 °C, failing to meet process conditions. The optimal heat exchange medium flow range is 2–3.5 kg·h⁻¹, providing foundational data and process parameters for safe design and stable operation of AAOF synthesis in channel reactors.

### [Optimization and Application of Equations of State for Detonation Condensed Carbon Products](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/optimization-and-application-of-equations-of-state-for-detonation-condensed-carbon-products) [DOI: 10.11943/CJEM2026061]
To improve the description of complex nano-carbon clusters in explosives such as TATB and BTF under high temperature and pressure, and to enhance the prediction accuracy of the detonation thermodynamic code VPL, two new equations of state (EOS) were developed. Based on molecular dynamics simulations of carbon condensation, a phase-composition algorithm was introduced and combined with graphite/diamond single-phase EOS to establish NDGP (Nano-Diamond-Graphite-Peng) for diamond-graphite core-shell nano-carbon clusters. Separately, a modified graphite EOS was formulated as NOCP (Nano-Onion-Carbon-Peng) for onion-like nano-carbon clusters at high detonation temperatures. These EOS were applied to calculate detonation velocity, pressure, overdriven Hugoniot, and work capacity for TATB (including TATB-based explosives) and BTF. Compared with Fried and Cowan-Fickett EOS, the new EOS improved prediction accuracy for TATB detonation velocity by 1.5%-2.5% and for BTF detonation pressure by 3%-5%. Additionally, an EOS for disordered low-density carbon was introduced to compute the detonation velocity of lead trinitroresorcinate (LTNR) as a function of loading density, achieving 3%-7% improvement over existing models. The results demonstrate that the new EOS provide more accurate predictions for explosives with complex carbon products, offering a robust tool for detonation performance evaluation.

### [Deep Learning-Based Spectral Identification of Explosives: A Sequential Infrared and Raman Approach](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/deep-learning-based-spectral-identification-of-explosives-a-sequential-infrared-and-raman-approach) [DOI: 10.11943/CJEM2026023]
The complex composition of mixed explosives poses significant challenges to conventional detection methods, which often suffer from low intelligence and poor discrimination. This study addresses these limitations by employing a sequential detection framework combining infrared (IR) spectroscopy for preliminary screening and Raman spectroscopy for confirmatory analysis, integrated with convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for intelligent spectral recognition. Two energetic material mixtures, m-dinitrobenzene/potassium nitrate and p-nitroaniline/ammonium nitrate, were prepared in powder and tablet forms. IR spectroscopy effectively identified organic components through characteristic absorption peaks but failed to detect inorganic oxidizers such as potassium nitrate and ammonium nitrate. Raman spectroscopy successfully characterized nitroaromatic functional groups and detected inorganic ions, enabling complete component identification. The CNN-based models achieved average classification accuracies of 96.54% for IR spectra and 96.29% for Raman spectra, with per-sample inference times of 0.044 s and 0.042 s, respectively. These results demonstrate that the proposed sequential IR-Raman approach, coupled with deep learning, provides a rapid and reliable solution for field detection of mixed explosives, overcoming the limitations of single-spectroscopy methods.

### [Blasting Failure Characteristics of Rock Specimens under In-Hole Layered Column Charge](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/blasting-failure-characteristics-of-rock-specimens-under-in-hole-layered-column-charge) [DOI: 10.11943/CJEM2026001]
To improve rock fragmentation in open-pit deep-hole blasting, an in-hole layered column charge configuration was designed. Small-scale blasting tests on sandstone specimens were conducted under continuous and layered column charges to capture the failure process and final fragmentation. DEM-PBM coupled simulations visualized the dynamic fracture evolution and validated the experimental observations. Results show that under continuous charge, the top quarter of the specimen developed only a single blast-induced crack, splitting it into two parts, with horizontal fragment velocity of 2.0 m·s⁻¹ and a maximum block size of 9.0 cm. In contrast, layered charge produced multiple cracks in the top quarter, fragmenting it into smaller pieces, increasing horizontal velocity to 7.0 m·s⁻¹, and eliminating blocks larger than 5.0 cm. Simulations confirmed these trends, with maximum block size reduced from 8.8 cm to below 5.0 cm and velocity reaching 6.8 m·s⁻¹, closely matching experiments. Field trials in an open-pit coal mine overburden blasting demonstrated that layered charge reduced the boulder yield from 48.1% to 5.6%, significantly improving fragmentation. The findings confirm the practical effectiveness of in-hole layered column charge in enhancing rock breakage in deep-hole bench blasting.

### [Review on Ship Structural Damage and Protection Subjected to Underwater Contact Explosions](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/review-on-ship-structural-damage-and-protection-subjected-to-underwater-contact-explosions) [DOI: 10.11943/CJEM2026118]
Underwater contact explosions from torpedoes and mines pose severe threats to ship survivability. The coupled effects of shock waves, bubbles, and secondary fragments induce complex structural damage. This review first analyzes the load characteristics of underwater contact explosions, detailing the spatial-temporal evolution of shock waves, bubbles, and secondary fragments. Subsequently, it examines protective mechanisms from two perspectives: multi-cabin structural protection and composite structure/material protection, focusing on damage suppression and energy dissipation. Finally, key technical challenges are summarized to guide future research. The review highlights that shock waves cause initial indentation and perforation of the outer plate, while bubble pulsation and collapse jets dominate subsequent large deformation and tearing of bulkheads. Experimental studies show that stiffened plates exhibit significant strain growth during bubble pulsation, potentially exceeding shock wave effects. Multi-cabin designs, such as liquid-filled compartments, effectively mitigate damage through energy absorption and impedance mismatch. Composite materials offer enhanced blast resistance but face scalability issues. The paper underscores the need for high-fidelity numerical methods and experimental validation to resolve controversies regarding dominant damage mechanisms. This work provides a comprehensive reference for advancing ship structural protection against underwater contact explosions.

### [Reaction-Growth Behavior of Energetic Materials under Mass-Inertial Confinement](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/reaction-growth-behavior-of-energetic-materials-under-mass-inertial-confinement) [DOI: 10.11943/CJEM2026012]
To investigate the reaction-growth behavior of propellants and polymer-bonded explosives (PBX) after non-shock ignition under mass-inertial confinement, a thick-walled cylinder experimental setup was constructed. The setup provided strong radial structural confinement and incorporated a large mass block with a mass ratio exceeding 45:1 relative to the energetic material. Laser ignition (250 W) was used to initiate reactions, and multiple photonic Doppler velocimetry (PDV) probes simultaneously measured radial expansion velocity of the cylinder and axial velocity of the mass block top. High-speed photography and recovered debris analysis were employed to compare reaction evolution processes. Results show that mass-inertial confinement enhances pressure buildup during the early reaction phase, but the type of energetic material determines reaction-growth characteristics and violence under identical confinement. For the composite propellant (containing AP, aluminum, RDX, and energetic binder), mass-inertial confinement dominated early pressurization; the system exhibited axial mass block acceleration without yielding of the thick-walled cylinder. Maximum reaction pressure was below 50 MPa, reaction fraction was less than 1%, and nearly all propellant was recovered, indicating a burning reaction. For the PBX (containing HMX and CL-20), early pressurization was jointly influenced by mass-inertial and structural confinement; the cylinder underwent yielding and radial expansion, and the mass block showed local upsetting deformation. Maximum reaction pressure reached 2 GPa, reaction fraction exceeded 50%, and no explosive was recovered, indicating a violent explosion. These findings provide insights into non-shock ignition reaction-growth mechanisms and safety design of structural charges.

### [Solubility and Thermodynamic Properties of β-HMX in Dimethyl Sulfoxide–Alcohol Binary Solvent Mixtures](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/solubility-and-thermodynamic-properties-of-hmx-in-dimethyl-sulfoxidealcohol-binary-solvent-mixtures) [DOI: 10.11943/CJEM2026054]
The solubility of β-octahydro-1,3,5,7-tetranitro-1,3,5,7-tetrazocine (β-HMX) in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)–methanol, DMSO–ethanol, and DMSO–n-propanol binary solvent mixtures was measured using a static method over the temperature range of 293.15–343.15 K at atmospheric pressure. The mole fraction of alcohol in the mixed solvent was varied from 0 to 1. The experimental solubility data were correlated with the Apelblat, Jouyban–Acree, and NRTL models. The Apelblat model provided the best fit, with an average relative deviation (ARD) below 5% and a root-mean-square deviation (RMSD) below 0.11%. Thermodynamic properties, including Gibbs free energy, enthalpy, and entropy of dissolution, were derived from the NRTL model. The dissolution process was endothermic, entropy-driven, and spontaneous in all three solvent systems. Solid-phase characterization by PXRD and DSC confirmed that no polymorphic transition of β-HMX occurred under the experimental conditions. Solvent composition stability tests showed that the maximum relative change in solubility due to composition fluctuation was less than 6.3%, corresponding to an equivalent temperature variation of 1.4–2.7 K. These data provide a foundation for optimizing anti-solvent crystallization processes for β-HMX.

### [Physical Trend for Critical Temperature in Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8 High-temperature Superconductors](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/physical-trend-for-critical-temperature-in-bi2sr2cacu2o8-high-temperature-superconductors) [DOI: 10.15541/jim20260128]
Superconductivity remains a central challenge in condensed matter physics and materials science, with high-temperature superconductors lacking a unified theoretical framework. This work investigates the relationship between critical temperature (TC) and hole concentration in Y-doped Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8 (Bi-2212), a cuprate superconductor. By systematically varying the hole concentration through Y substitution, we establish a power-law scaling: TC ∝ p^0.5, where p is the hole concentration per CuO2 plane. The exponent of 0.5 indicates a quadratic dependence, suggesting that increased hole concentration enhances superconducting pairing strength. Our data reveal that TC increases monotonically with hole concentration up to the optimal doping level, reaching a maximum of 95 K at p ≈ 0.16, beyond which over-doping suppresses superconductivity. This trend holds across the under-doped and optimally-doped regimes, providing a predictive tool for optimizing TC in Bi-2212 and related cuprates. The findings underscore that hole concentration is a critical control parameter, and achieving high TC requires precise doping control. This work offers practical guidance for the design of new high-temperature superconductors with enhanced performance, potentially enabling operation at liquid-nitrogen temperatures and above, which is crucial for technological applications such as magnetic resonance imaging, particle accelerators, and power transmission.

### [Influence of Preparation Processes on the Structure and Properties of the Ductile Thermoelectric Material Ag2S0.4Te0.6](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/influence-of-preparation-processes-on-the-structure-and-properties-of-the-ductile-thermoelectric-material-ag2s) [DOI: 10.15541/jim20260018]
Ag2S0.4Te0.6 is an inorganic semiconductor with favorable ductility and thermoelectric performance, showing potential for applications in wearable electronics. Recent studies have indicated that optimization of preparation processes, such as annealing, can significantly enhance the ductility of the material, which is closely related to its phase composition and crystal structure. In this work, high-resolution synchrotron radiation powder X-ray diffraction data of the Ag2S0.4Te0.6 powder sample before and after annealing were collected over a temperature range of 110–700 K. By combining Rietveld structural refinement, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and atomic pair distribution function analysis, the influence of the annealing process on the phase composition and structural evolution behavior of the powder samples was investigated in detail. The results show that the pristine Ag2S0.4Te0.6 powder is predominantly amorphous, containing only a small amount of poorly crystalline monoclinic phase. During heating, the material gradually crystallizes, first forming a monoclinic phase, which subsequently transforms into mixed body-centered cubic (bcc) and face-centered cubic (fcc) phases. After cooling back to room temperature, the sample remains in a mixed state of bcc-dominated cubic crystallinity and amorphous phase. In contrast, the annealed powder sample already exhibits a mixed cubic crystalline/amorphous state at room temperature, and no obvious phase transition behavior is observed during heating. Moreover, the thermoelectric properties of Ag2S0.4Te0.6 bulk sample remain largely unaffected by the annealing process. This study provides structural insights for further understanding the annealing-induced improvement in ductility.

### [Research Progress on Controllable Synthesis of Blue-emitting ZnSeTe Quantum Dots and Quantum-dot Light-emitting Diode Devices](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/research-progress-on-controllable-synthesis-of-blue-emitting-znsete-quantum-dots-and-quantum-dot-light-emittin) [DOI: 10.15541/jim20260115]
Colloidal quantum dots (QDs) are promising emissive materials for optoelectronic devices owing to their tunable emission wavelength, high color purity, and solution processability. Quantum-dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs), an important complementary technology to organic light-emitting diodes, have demonstrated considerable potential in display applications. However, the inherent toxicity of conventional Cd- and Pb-based QDs has driven the development of heavy-metal-free QDs systems. Currently, heavy-metal-free blue QLEDs still lag significantly behind their red and green counterparts in device efficiency and operational stability, representing a critical bottleneck to their practical application. To address this issue, ZnSeTe QDs have attracted significant research interest due to their tunable bandgap and excellent blue emission properties. In this work, a comprehensive review of ZnSeTe QDs is provided. Firstly, their nucleation and growth mechanisms, as well as typical synthesis methods are introduced, and the key factors affecting their optical properties are discussed. On this basis, various performance optimization strategies, including band engineering, surface etching, shell passivation, and ligand regulation, are systematically summarized. Furthermore, electroluminescence mechanisms of QLEDs and recent progress on the application of ZnSeTe QDs in blue-emitting devices are reviewed. Finally, the current challenges, such as low emission efficiency, limited device lifetime, and charge injection imbalance, are discussed, and potential future development directions are proposed.

### [Machine Learning-Assisted Design of High-Temperature BSPT-Based Piezoelectric Ceramics with Enhanced Dual Properties](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/machine-learning-assisted-design-of-high-temperature-bspt-based-piezoelectric-ceramics-with-enhanced-dual-prop) [DOI: 10.15541/jim20260017]
BiScO3-PbTiO3 (BSPT)-based piezoelectric ceramics are promising for high-temperature applications above 350 °C due to their high Curie temperature (TC) and large piezoelectric coefficient (d33). However, conventional trial-and-error methods are inefficient for exploring the vast compositional space. Here, we developed a machine learning model trained on a small dataset and integrated it with experimental knowledge to accelerate the design of BSPT-based ceramics with simultaneously large d33 and high TC. Guided by the model, we designed Ga-W ion-pair co-doped 0.36BiScO3-0.64PbTi1–x(Ga2/3W1/3)xO3 (BSPTGW1000x) ceramics. This doping strategy significantly modified lattice distortion and domain structures, enhancing piezoelectric performance. Among compositions, BSPTGW10 (x=0.010) exhibited the best overall properties: d33=525 pC/N and TC=423 °C, closely matching predictions. Its piezoelectric coefficient variation remained within ±15% up to 365 °C, indicating excellent thermal stability. This study provides an effective approach for rapid discovery of BSPT-based ceramics with dual high-performance characteristics and yields a promising material for high-temperature applications.

### [Prediction of Cylindrical Deformation Response Subjected to Underwater Explosion Based on a PointNet Conditional Diffusion Model](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/prediction-of-cylindrical-deformation-response-subjected-to-underwater-explosion-based-on-a-pointnet-condition) [DOI: 10.11943/CJEM2026123]
To predict the full-field deformation damage of ring-stiffened cylindrical shells subjected to underwater explosion loads, a method combining a PointNet conditional diffusion model, K-nearest neighbor (KNN) algorithm, graph neural network (GNN) residual correction, and spatial interpolation is proposed for point cloud displacement field prediction and deformation reconstruction. A dataset of cylindrical shell deformation responses was generated via numerical simulation, and a prediction model was trained to predict three-dimensional deformation displacements and reconstruct complete surface deformation contours under varying charge masses, standoff distances, and time instants. Error evaluation on the validation set yielded a mean squared error (MSE) of 0.0077 mm², root mean squared error (RMSE) of 0.0877 mm, mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.0548 mm, and coefficient of determination (R²) of 0.9858, indicating high displacement prediction accuracy. The reconstructed results effectively capture the deformation history and final overall deformation of the cylindrical shell. This method provides a reference for underwater platform explosion damage prediction and assessment.

### [Physiological Damage Effects of Underwater Explosion Shock Waves on Cyphastrea japonica](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/physiological-damage-effects-of-underwater-explosion-shock-waves-on-cyphastrea-japonica) [DOI: 10.11943/CJEM2026125]
Underwater blasting is indispensable for marine engineering, yet its shock waves can damage reef-building corals. This study investigated the physiological damage to Cyphastrea japonica holobiont from underwater explosion shock waves, examining coral host, symbiotic zooxanthellae, and microbiota. The coral's tolerance threshold was 6.74 MPa. Protein content decreased with increasing shock wave intensity, with a maximum reduction of 59.6%. At 11.01 MPa, zooxanthellae density dropped by 87% and photosynthetic rate by 49%, causing significant bleaching. Superoxide dismutase and catalase activities significantly decreased, indicating impaired antioxidant defense. Microbial community diversity at the phylum level increased significantly, and genus-level structure became more complex. The study reveals a stepwise damage pathway from host to zooxanthellae photosynthesis to microbial community, providing scientific basis for coral protection during marine blasting.

### [Advances in Brain-Computer Interface Technology: A Comprehensive Review of Neural Signal Processing and Applications](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/advances-in-brain-computer-interface-technology-a-comprehensive-review-of-neural-signal-processing-and-applica) [DOI: 10.16183/j.cnki.jsjtu.2026.105]
Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) have emerged as a transformative technology enabling direct communication between the brain and external devices, offering unprecedented opportunities for restoring motor function in paralyzed individuals and enhancing human-computer interaction. This comprehensive review synthesizes recent advances in BCI technology, focusing on neural signal acquisition, signal processing algorithms, and diverse applications. We systematically analyze invasive and non-invasive recording modalities, including electroencephalography (EEG), electrocorticography (ECoG), and intracortical microelectrode arrays, highlighting their respective advantages and limitations. The review delves into state-of-the-art signal processing techniques, such as adaptive filtering, common spatial patterns, and deep learning-based classification, which have significantly improved the accuracy and reliability of BCI systems. Furthermore, we explore the expanding landscape of BCI applications, ranging from assistive communication and motor rehabilitation to cognitive enhancement and neurofeedback therapy. Critical challenges, including signal non-stationarity, user variability, and long-term stability, are discussed alongside emerging solutions such as hybrid BCI architectures and closed-loop adaptive systems. By integrating findings from recent studies and clinical trials, this review provides a forward-looking perspective on the future of BCI technology, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and translational research to bridge the gap between laboratory innovations and real-world clinical adoption. Our analysis underscores the potential of BCIs to revolutionize neurorehabilitation and human augmentation, while also addressing ethical and societal implications. This comprehensive overview serves as a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and engineers seeking to understand the current state and future directions of brain-computer interface technology.

### [A Novel Multi-Scale Robotic System for Enhanced Surgical Precision and Autonomy in Minimally Invasive Procedures](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/a-novel-multi-scale-robotic-system-for-enhanced-surgical-precision-and-autonomy-in-minimally-invasive-procedur) [DOI: 10.16183/j.cnki.jsjtu.2026.058]
Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has revolutionized surgical practice by reducing patient trauma and recovery time. However, current robotic systems face limitations in dexterity, haptic feedback, and autonomous decision-making, particularly in complex anatomical environments. This paper presents a novel multi-scale robotic system designed to enhance surgical precision and autonomy. The system integrates a macro-scale robotic arm with a micro-scale continuum manipulator, enabling precise manipulation across different scales. A hierarchical control architecture combines model-based and learning-based approaches to achieve adaptive motion planning and real-time obstacle avoidance. The system also incorporates a multi-modal sensing framework that fuses visual, force, and proximity data to provide comprehensive situational awareness. Experimental validation in phantom and ex-vivo models demonstrates significant improvements in task completion time, accuracy, and consistency compared to conventional techniques. The system successfully performed complex tasks such as suturing and tissue dissection with reduced error rates. The results indicate that the proposed system can effectively enhance surgical performance, paving the way for more autonomous and intelligent surgical robots. Future work will focus on in-vivo trials and integration with augmented reality interfaces.

### [Integrated Multi-Omics Analysis of Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Infiltration in Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Implications for Prognosis and Immunotherapy](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/integrated-multi-omics-analysis-of-tumor-microenvironment-and-immune-infiltration-in-hepatocellular-carcinoma) [DOI: 10.16183/j.cnki.jsjtu.2026.066]
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a highly heterogeneous malignancy with a complex tumor microenvironment (TME) that profoundly influences disease progression and therapeutic response. In this study, we performed an integrated multi-omics analysis of HCC using transcriptomic, genomic, and epigenetic data from public databases and our own cohort. We characterized the immune cell infiltration patterns and identified distinct TME subtypes associated with differential prognosis and immunotherapy outcomes. Through weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and machine learning, we constructed a prognostic signature based on TME-related genes, which robustly predicted overall survival in multiple independent cohorts. Furthermore, we explored the interplay between TME, somatic mutations, and copy number variations, revealing potential biomarkers for immune checkpoint blockade. Our findings highlight the clinical significance of TME heterogeneity in HCC and provide a foundation for personalized treatment strategies. The prognostic model and immune-related biomarkers may facilitate risk stratification and guide immunotherapeutic decisions in HCC patients.

### [Mitigating Phosphonic Acid–Perovskite Interfacial Degradation via Molecular Engineering for Ultra-Stable Solar Cells](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/mitigating-phosphonic-acidperovskite-interfacial-degradation-via-molecular-engineering-for-ultra-stable-solar) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26020002]
Metal halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have emerged as a leading next-generation photovoltaic technology, with certified efficiencies surpassing 27% and approaching the theoretical limit for single-junction devices. However, their commercialization is critically hindered by insufficient long-term operational stability, particularly under harsh conditions such as elevated temperatures (≥85 °C) and full-spectrum illumination. The hole-transport layer (HTL) plays a decisive role in both efficiency and stability, and phosphonic acid-based self-assembled monolayers (PA-SAMs) have become the material of choice for inverted-structure PSCs due to their molecular-scale precision and superior energy-level alignment. Nevertheless, PA-SAMs primarily anchor to ITO surfaces via weak hydrogen bonds, which dissociate under photothermal stress, leading to molecular desorption and migration into the perovskite layer, thereby inducing degradation and performance decline. In a recent breakthrough published in Science (2026), Fei et al. report a transformative molecular engineering strategy that unlocks ultra-stable PSCs. They designed a triphenylamine-based phosphonic acid (1PA-TPD) with robust covalent anchoring to ITO substrates and optimized a mixed SAM system (60 wt% 1PA-TPD + 40 wt% EtCz3EPA), successfully suppressing interfacial reactivity between PA-SAMs and perovskites. This multifunctional strategy integrates strong substrate binding, interfacial reaction inhibition, crystallinity enhancement, and defect passivation, enabling small-area PSCs with a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 25.0% and a T90 lifetime of nearly 3000 hours, as well as minimodules with >22% PCE and ~2200 hours T90 under harsh photothermal conditions. This work deciphers a previously underappreciated degradation pathway and provides a universal design principle for stable interfacial layers, marking a critical step toward PSC commercialization.

### [A Novel Approach for Enhanced Brain Tumor Segmentation Using Multimodal MRI and Deep Learning](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/a-novel-approach-for-enhanced-brain-tumor-segmentation-using-multimodal-mri-and-deep-learning) [DOI: 10.16183/j.cnki.jsjtu.2026.105]
Brain tumor segmentation from multimodal MRI is crucial for diagnosis and treatment planning. In this study, we propose a novel deep learning framework that integrates structural and functional imaging modalities to improve segmentation accuracy. Our method employs a multi-scale attention mechanism and a hybrid loss function to handle class imbalance and boundary ambiguity. Evaluated on the BraTS benchmark, our approach achieves state-of-the-art performance, with Dice scores of 0.91, 0.87, and 0.84 for whole tumor, core, and enhancing tumor, respectively. Furthermore, we demonstrate the generalizability of our model across different scanners and protocols. Our findings suggest that the proposed method can significantly aid clinical decision-making and surgical planning.

### [Investigation of coupled acoustic and electrical responses and early warning approaches during re-loading of damaged coal](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/investigation-of-coupled-acoustic-and-electrical-responses-and-early-warning-approaches-during-re-loading-of-d) [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2026.01.004]
Initial damage from engineering disturbances in deep coal mining degrades mechanical properties and heightens dynamic-hazard risks, challenging conventional monitoring. This study probes the coupled acoustic-electrical responses of initially damaged coal under reloading and develops a multi-parameter, multi-level dynamic integrated early-warning model. Using a true-triaxial Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) system, we prepared specimens with graded damage by varying static deviatoric stresses and dynamic impacts. Uniaxial compression reloading was conducted with synchronous acoustic emission (AE) and resistivity monitoring. Joint time-domain responses of force, acoustics, and electricity delineated distinct loading stages. Time-frequency features were extracted via Fourier and wavelet transforms; crack architecture was quantified by 3D AE localization and fractal-dimension analysis. Initial damage markedly reduced load-bearing capacity. Resistivity decreased sharply with increasing deviatoric stress, while cumulative AE counts increased strongly. The AE spectrum evolved from bimodal to broadband with low- and high-frequency enhancement. The resistivity spectrum showed progressive bandwidth broadening, energy amplification, and high-frequency advancement. The AE spatial fractal dimension rose significantly during compaction. An integrated warning system combining multiscale entropy fusion, Temporal Convolutional Network (TCN)-Transformer forecasting, recurrence-network analysis, and a Bayesian framework yielded a 28.4 s lead time, offering a theoretical basis and technical pathway for intelligent prevention of dynamic hazards.

### [Influence of Aggregate Particle Size on Fracture Behavior and Energy Evolution of Cemented Rockfill in the Post-Peak Stage](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/influence-of-aggregate-particle-size-on-fracture-behavior-and-energy-evolution-of-cemented-rockfill-in-the-pos) [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2026.01.003]
Cemented rockfill (CRF) combines structural support with sustainable reuse of coal-derived solid waste. This study integrates digital image correlation, acoustic emission monitoring, and finite–discrete element simulations to investigate mechanical behavior, fracture development, and energy evolution of CRF containing 54% aggregate content with three grain-size distributions (5–10, 10–20, and 20–30 mm). Results indicate finer aggregates raise compressive strength and elastic modulus, and increase post-peak softening and residual stiffness. Fracture patterns transition from dominantly unidirectional failure in coarse specimens to pronounced X-shaped conjugate shear in fine specimens, with cracks initiating at boundaries and propagating inward. The proportion of failed joints at comparable strains decreases markedly with finer gradation, reflecting a more homogeneous crack network that enhances post-peak load retention and produces frequent minor stress fluctuations. Energy analyses reveal a coarse > medium > fine ordering in cumulative dissipation; however, finer aggregates delay rapid kinetic and dissipative energy release, promoting slower energy redistribution and improved load resistance. These findings quantify how aggregate gradation controls deformational mechanisms, crack topology, and energy partitioning, and provide design guidance for optimizing aggregate size and cementitious composition to enhance ductility, energy absorption, and structural reliability of CRF in underground engineering.

### [Mid-Wavelength Infrared Detector Array Based on Black Phosphorus Ink Thin Film](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/mid-wavelength-infrared-detector-array-based-on-black-phosphorus-ink-thin-film) [DOI: 10.11972/j.issn.1001-9014.2026.03.2026043]
Mid-wavelength infrared (MWIR) imaging technology plays a crucial role in aerospace, medical diagnostics, and autonomous driving. Van der Waals material black phosphorus (BP) exhibits exceptionally high carrier mobility and an ideal direct bandgap, making it a proven candidate for high-performance room-temperature MWIR sensing. However, the stringent growth conditions and anisotropic growth characteristics restrict the development of BP optoelectronic devices to small-scale laboratory demonstrations. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop large-scale, uniform, and high-performance BP photodetector arrays. This study employed a room temperature preparation technique to deposit a large-area, uniform, low-oxidation BP ink film onto thin-film transistors, resulting in the development of a 64 × 64 high-performance MWIR snapshot photodetector array. The room temperature ink preparation process effectively prevents the oxidation of BP during fabrication, achieving an oxidation loss as low as 1.12%. In addition, a gradient centrifugation strategy was employed to optimize the lateral size and thickness distribution of the nanosheets in the BP ink, thereby facilitating the transport of charge carriers. The BP ink film array demonstrated a high photoresponsivity of 4.52 mA/W in the MWIR range, with pixel light response non-uniformity as low as 10.1%. This study presents a new approach for advancing large-scale MWIR imaging technology.

### [Crystallization-Sequence Engineering Enables Organic Solar Cell Modules with Efficiencies Exceeding 18%](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/crystallization-sequence-engineering-enables-organic-solar-cell-modules-with-efficiencies-exceeding-18) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26020050]
Organic solar cells (OSCs) have emerged as a promising photovoltaic technology due to their mechanical flexibility, low density, and compatibility with solution-based fabrication, enabling applications such as wearable electronics and building-integrated photovoltaics. Despite rapid increases in laboratory efficiencies, transferring these advances to large-area modules remains a significant challenge, primarily due to the thickness constraint of the photoactive layer. High-efficiency devices typically require active layers of 80–120 nm, which are difficult to deposit uniformly over large areas, leading to pinholes and nonuniform electric fields. Thicker films are desirable for manufacturing but often cause efficiency losses due to increased recombination and poor morphology. To address this, Li from Soochow University proposed a crystallization-sequence manipulation strategy using a functional molecular regulator (AT-β2O) that selectively interacts with one blend component to control its nucleation and growth. This regulator delays acceptor crystallization, breaking the natural synchrony of donor (D18) and acceptor (N3) solidification, enabling a vertically graded morphology with a donor-rich bottom, intermixed bulk, and acceptor-rich top. This structure enhances exciton dissociation and directional charge transport, reducing recombination, especially in thick films. Additionally, sequential crystallization improves molecular ordering, increasing carrier mobility and fill factor. As a result, OSCs with a 130 nm film achieve a certified power conversion efficiency exceeding 20%, demonstrating the potential of crystallization-sequence engineering for scalable, high-performance organic solar cells.

### [Band Engineering Solar-Blind Ultraviolet Photodetectors: Breaking the Sensitivity-Speed Trade-off](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/band-engineering-solar-blind-ultraviolet-photodetectors-breaking-the-sensitivity-speed-trade-off) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26010031]
Solar-blind ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors are crucial for applications requiring high signal-to-noise ratio and immunity to solar background noise. However, conventional devices often suffer from a trade-off between sensitivity and response speed. This research highlight discusses the emergence of unipolar barrier architectures, such as nBn and pBp structures, as a promising solution to overcome this limitation. By engineering band offsets to block majority carriers while allowing unimpeded transport of minority carriers, these structures suppress dark current and enhance photocurrent collection. Specifically, an nBn avalanche photodetector based on a Ga2O3/MgO/Nb:STO heterostructure is highlighted, which achieves high sensitivity through impact ionization and high speed via rapid carrier sweep-out. This design breaks the sensitivity-speed trade-off, offering a pathway for high-performance solar-blind UV detection.

### [θ-TaN: Redefining the Thermal Conductivity Limit of Metallic Materials](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/tan-redefining-the-thermal-conductivity-limit-of-metallic-materials) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26010049]
Thermal management has become a critical bottleneck for the performance and reliability of modern electronics. For over a century, the thermal conductivity (κ) of metallic materials was believed to have an inherent upper limit of approximately 400 W·m⁻¹·K⁻¹, constrained by strong electron-phonon coupling and lattice anharmonicity. However, a groundbreaking study by Li et al. (Science, 2026) experimentally realized single-crystalline θ-phase tantalum nitride (θ-TaN), a metastable transition metal nitride with a room-temperature thermal conductivity of ~1100 W·m⁻¹·K⁻¹ along the a-axis and ~928 W·m⁻¹·K⁻¹ along the c-axis, nearly three times that of copper. This work shatters the long-standing thermal conductivity limit for metals and validates theoretical predictions. The exceptional performance of θ-TaN arises from its unique hexagonal crystal structure (space group P6m2), featuring a large acoustic-optical phonon gap (~8 THz) and acoustic phonon bunching, which suppress phonon-phonon scattering. Additionally, weak electron-phonon coupling and minimal isotope scattering contribute to phonon-dominated heat transport. The authors synthesized high-quality single crystals via a flux-assisted metathesis reaction, overcoming challenges of conventional high-pressure routes. Using time-domain thermoreflectance and inelastic X-ray scattering, they confirmed the intrinsic ultrahigh thermal conductivity and mapped the phonon band structure. This discovery introduces a new class of high-thermal-conductivity metals, opening transformative opportunities for thermal management in electronics, aerospace, and energy systems.

### [Multi-phase clock generation techniques toward high-frequency and wideband applications](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/multi-phase-clock-generation-techniques-toward-high-frequency-and-wideband-applications) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26020027]
Multi-phase clocks are fundamental components in modern wireline and wireless communication systems, serving as timing and phase references across diverse architectures. As data rates and carrier frequencies scale, the required phase count and operating frequency have increased substantially, pushing conventional clock generation techniques toward their limits. In high-speed wireline transceivers, multi-phase clocks are essential for CDR phase interpolation, time-interleaved ADCs, and advanced PAM-based modulation, imposing stringent requirements on RMS jitter, phase accuracy, and robustness against PVT variations. In wireless and millimeter-wave systems, they are employed for LO generation, quadrature modulation, and beam steering, where phase accuracy often dominates over absolute jitter. Conventional techniques, including PLL-based dividers, multi-core LC oscillators, and passive phase-shifting networks, face scalability challenges at high frequencies, including limited speed, area overhead, narrowband operation, and sensitivity to mismatch. Ring oscillators offer inherent phase scalability and wide tuning range but suffer from poor stability and jitter. Injection-locked ring oscillators (ILROs) enhance stability and phase noise while preserving multi-phase advantages, yet achieving wide locking range and high phase accuracy simultaneously remains challenging. This research highlight reviews these techniques, discusses their limitations, and outlines advanced injection and feedback schemes to overcome these challenges, aiming to guide future developments in high-frequency and wideband multi-phase clock generation.

### [Zigzag Domain Walls Unravel the Polarization Switching Puzzle in Wurtzite Ferroelectrics](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/zigzag-domain-walls-unravel-the-polarization-switching-puzzle-in-wurtzite-ferroelectrics) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26020035]
The discovery of robust ferroelectricity in scandium-doped aluminum nitride (Al1−xScxN) has sparked significant interest due to its compatibility with CMOS fabrication, making it a promising candidate for next-generation non-volatile memories and high-frequency devices. However, the microscopic mechanism of polarization switching in wurtzite ferroelectrics has remained elusive, with experimental observations seemingly contradicting traditional models. In a recent study, researchers resolved this long-standing puzzle by integrating advanced thin-film fabrication, tailored electrical characterization, and large-scale molecular dynamics simulations powered by a deep neural network-based interatomic potential. Their findings reveal that the broad 'transitional regions' observed in scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) are not a new nonpolar phase but a projection artifact arising from intrinsically three-dimensional zigzag domain walls. By comparing simulated projections with high-resolution STEM data, they proved that the zigzag inversion domain boundary (IDB*) model consistently explains all experimental observations. The study demonstrates that polarization reversal proceeds through localized, column-by-column atomic displacements, leading to nucleation-limited switching kinetics rather than uniform domain growth. Furthermore, they established a direct link between scandium concentration and coercive field, showing that increasing Sc content lowers the formation energy of domain walls, thereby reducing the nucleation barrier. This work provides a physically grounded framework for understanding wurtzite ferroelectrics and underscores the importance of 3D modeling in interpreting 2D projections. These insights offer a roadmap for predictive materials design, potentially enabling the engineering of domain wall energetics to lower coercive fields and improve device reliability.

### [A Multi-Scale Robotic System for Autonomous Surgical Intervention in Dynamic Environments](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/a-multi-scale-robotic-system-for-autonomous-surgical-intervention-in-dynamic-environments) [DOI: 10.16183/j.cnki.jsjtu.2026.058]
This paper presents a novel multi-scale robotic system designed for autonomous surgical intervention in dynamic environments. The system integrates advanced perception, planning, and control algorithms to enable precise manipulation in minimally invasive procedures. Key contributions include a hierarchical control architecture, real-time adaptive trajectory planning, and a robust force feedback mechanism. Experimental validation in simulated and in-vivo settings demonstrates significant improvements in accuracy, safety, and operational efficiency compared to conventional methods. The proposed framework addresses critical challenges in surgical robotics, paving the way for broader clinical adoption.

### [Integrated Multi-Omics Analysis Reveals the Role of Digital Twin Technology in Precision Oncology: A Prospective Cohort Study](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/integrated-multi-omics-analysis-reveals-the-role-of-digital-twin-technology-in-precision-oncology-a-prospectiv) [DOI: 10.16183/j.cnki.jsjtu.2026.066]
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.

### [Load-bearing characteristics of backfilling solids in deep mining under flexible passive confining pressure: An experimental study](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/load-bearing-characteristics-of-backfilling-solids-in-deep-mining-under-flexible-passive-confining-pressure-an) [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2026.01.002]
To address the deviation between rigid confining pressure experiments and actual engineering conditions of deep backfill mining, where backfill near the working face has less confining pressure, while that in deep goaf areas is under high confining pressure, this study investigates the load-bearing characteristics of rock granular materials under flexible passive confining pressure. Customized PC molds with varying wall thicknesses and rigid steel molds were used to construct a gradient confining pressure environment. Compression tests were conducted, combined with the characterization of acoustic emission (AE) monitoring, strain measurement, particle sieving, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observation. The results show that flexible passive confining pressure divides the particle compression process into three stages that are different from those under traditional rigid constraints, namely the initial compaction stage, the crushing failure stage, and the lateral confinement-dominated stage. AE signals exhibit a bimodal energy distribution, and the time interval between the two can vary by more than 4 times with changes. The failure modes transition from shear to tension. Compared with intact materials, granular materials under lateral confinement maintain continuous volume contraction, and can even maintain a continuous volume contraction trend at least when the strain reaches 8%. And lateral confinement stiffness significantly enhances axial bearing capacity: when the axial strain reaches 30%, the axial stress in the rigid confinement group is nearly 5 times that in the flexible confinement group. Fractal dimension increases from 1.94 to 2.39 as the confinement stiffness rises. This study clarifies the influence mechanism of lateral confinement stiffness on granular mechanics, providing fundamental support for optimizing backfill design based on goaf locations and improving surrounding rock control in deep green mining.

### [Bonding at the Atomic Limit: Redefining Contacts in Two-Dimensional Semiconductors](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/bonding-at-the-atomic-limit-redefining-contacts-in-two-dimensional-semiconductors) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26010050]
Two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) hold promise for next-generation electronics, but their industrial adoption is hindered by van der Waals (vdW) contacts, which exhibit weak interfacial coupling and high contact resistance (RC). This news and views article highlights a recent breakthrough by Zhang and co-workers (Science, 2025) that introduces atomic layer bonding (ALB) contacts. By selectively removing the top sulfur layer of MoS2, the exposed molybdenum atoms bond directly with gold, forming a coherent interface with zero tunneling barrier and a bonding energy 5.4 times higher than vdW contacts. HAADF-STEM imaging confirms lattice contraction and strong chemical bonding. Electrical measurements show ultra-low contact resistance of 70 Ω·μm after annealing, high on-state current of 1.1 mA/μm, and thermomechanical stability up to 400 °C, meeting BEOL thermal budgets. ALB contacts overcome the limitations of conventional contacts, offering a universal strategy for TMDs and paving the way for lab-to-fab transformation of 2D devices.

### [Influence mechanism of pore structure evolution on oxygen consumption dynamics during low-temperature oxidation of igneous metamorphic coal](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/influence-mechanism-of-pore-structure-evolution-on-oxygen-consumption-dynamics-during-low-temperature-oxidatio) [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2026.01.001]
In igneous-intruded coal seams, coal undergoes significant metamorphism, which critically alters its pore structure and oxygen consumption dynamics, thereby elevating its spontaneous combustion tendency. This study investigates the specific surface area, pore volume, structure complexity/connectivity, heterogeneity/local features of pore size distribution, and oxygen consumption dynamics of igneous metamorphic coal through N2/CO2 isothermal adsorption tests and low-temperature oxidation experiments, and elucidates the influence mechanisms of pore structure evolution on oxygen consumption dynamics during low-temperature oxidation. With increasing metamorphic degree, igneous metamorphic coal exhibits a more pronounced reduction in specific surface area during oxidation, while the increase in structure complexity due to coal-oxygen reactions is suppressed. Thermally metamorphic coal demonstrates accelerated oxygen consumption, with oxidation amplifying the difference in reaction rates compared to raw coal. Key mechanisms include oxidation-induced reduction in mesopore complexity and micropore volume, decreased dominance of small-pore-volume apertures, and increased heterogeneity, collectively leading to a lower half-oxygen-consuming temperature and steeper oxygen consumption curves. Simultaneously, increased pore volume/complexity and reduced uniformity/connectivity act synergistically to enhance oxygen consumption capacity, highlighting the coupling between pore structure evolution and oxidation behavior in igneous metamorphic coal. This study provides theoretical insights into the pore-oxygen coupling mechanisms governing coal spontaneous combustion in igneous intrusion areas.

### [Coupled TM-damage modeling and global sensitivity analysis of thermal spalling in heterogeneous rocks](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/coupled-tm-damage-modeling-and-global-sensitivity-analysis-of-thermal-spalling-in-heterogeneous-rocks) [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2026.01.008]
Thermal spalling in heterogeneous rocks under rapid heating poses critical risks to deep mining and geothermal operations. In this study, we develop a coupled thermal–mechanical–damage (TM-D) model that explicitly incorporates Weibull distributed heterogeneity to a single fracture in rock, and validate it against ceramic quenching and granite acoustic emission experiments. Distance based generalized sensitivity analysis (DGSA) is applied to quantify the influence and interactions of key parameters, revealing the dominant controls on spalling onset, severity, and damage morphology. The results demonstrate that thermal stress dominates crack initiation and propagation, that lateral constraints can significantly delay and suppress spalling, and that material heterogeneity markedly influences peak stress and damage modes within a certain range of thermal expansion coefficient and has multiple effects on thermal spalling. This study provides a theoretical basis for quantitative assessment and parameter optimization of thermal spalling processes in rock masses.

### [Investigation of Multiphase Fluid Seepage Behaviour in Abandoned Mines: Insights from Single Fracture to Network Scale](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/investigation-of-multiphase-fluid-seepage-behaviour-in-abandoned-mines-insights-from-single-fracture-to-networ) [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2026.01.006]
Quantifying two-phase fluid flow in fractured rocks is essential for resource reutilization in abandoned mines, subsurface energy recovery and underground waste isolation. This study develops a mathematical framework for predicting the permeability of rough fracture networks by integrating fractal geometry with single-phase and two-phase seepage theory. A permeability model for rough fracture networks is first established, and its sensitivity to key geometric parameters is analyzed. A second model is then formulated to relate water-phase saturation to measurable variables, enabling the estimation of two-phase permeability from Reynolds number and aperture. Model predictions show deviations of less than 10% from numerical simulations for both single-phase and two-phase flow, demonstrating the accuracy and robustness of the proposed approach. The results highlight the dominant roles of fracture number, tortuosity and aperture in controlling permeability, as well as the influence of flow regimes on relative permeability. The proposed framework provides a practical and physically based method for analyzing multiphase seepage in fractured rock and offers a foundation for further applications to field-scale fractured systems.

### [Crystallization Suppression of Mixed-Halide Intermediates for Perovskite/Cu(In,Ga)Se2 Tandem Solar Cells with Improved Efficiency](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/crystallization-suppression-of-mixed-halide-intermediates-for-perovskitecuingase2-tandem-solar-cells-with-impr) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26020045]
Flexible and lightweight photovoltaics are pivotal for renewable energy applications, and all-thin-film tandem solar cells combining metal-halide perovskites with copper indium gallium selenide (CIGS) offer a synergistic approach to exceed the Shockley-Queisser limit. However, fabricating high-quality wide-bandgap (WBG) perovskite films, especially via scalable blade-coating in ambient air, remains challenging due to uncontrollable crystallization kinetics, phase segregation, and moisture-induced defects. This work addresses these issues by introducing a crystallization suppression strategy that replaces the traditional solvent N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) with 2-pyrrolidinone (PDI). In situ grazing-incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD) reveals that NMP-based films undergo a crystalline-to-crystalline transition via solvent-coordinated intermediates, leading to residual impurities and incomplete phase transformation. In contrast, PDI, through additional hydrogen bonding, suppresses pre-crystallization and maintains a homogeneous non-crystalline precursor state, enabling a rapid non-crystalline-to-crystalline transition with lower energy barriers. This results in uniform, pinhole-free films with enhanced carrier mobility, longer carrier lifetimes, and reduced trap densities. Single-junction perovskite solar cells fabricated with PDI achieve significantly improved efficiency, demonstrating the effectiveness of this approach for high-performance perovskite/CIGS tandem solar cells.

### [Exciplex-Enabled Fully Stretchable OLEDs Achieve a Record External Quantum Efficiency of 17%](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/exciplex-enabled-fully-stretchable-oleds-achieve-a-record-external-quantum-efficiency-of-17) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26020007]
Organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) are promising candidates for on-skin applications due to their intrinsic stretchability. However, the external quantum efficiency (EQE) of stretchable OLEDs has long been limited to approximately 10%, stemming from the incorporation of insulating elastomer matrices that hinder exciton energy transfer and charge transport, and from conventional stretchable electrodes with insufficient electrical properties and poor interfacial contact. In a recent breakthrough published in Nature (2026), Gogotsi and Lee reported an exciplex-enabled strategy that overcomes these limitations. By integrating a stretchable exciplex-assisted phosphorescent emitting layer, triplet harvesting is significantly enhanced through an elastomer-tolerant triplet-recycling mechanism. Furthermore, they employ work-function-tunable MXene-contact stretchable electrodes (MCSEs) that provide two-dimensional electrical contact for efficient charge injection. Combining these advances, they achieve an unprecedented EQE of 17% in fully stretchable OLEDs while maintaining excellent mechanical stability. The spin-flip process, which converts non-radiative triplets into radiative singlets, is critical yet challenging in stretchable OLEDs because the necessary spin-orbit coupling (SOC) is sensitive to variations in intermolecular distance under strain. The authors utilize the phosphorescent emitter bis(2-phenylpyridine) (Ir(ppy)2acac), whose heavy-metal iridium center provides strong SOC, enabling nearly complete intersystem crossing and triplet utilization. The study demonstrates that the intrinsic SOC of Ir(ppy)2acac remains stable under 50% tensile strain, preserving both spin-mixing rates and photoluminescence stability. To prevent aggregation-induced quenching and enable efficient energy transfer within a soft matrix, the authors develop a stretchable exciplex-assisted phosphorescent (ExciPh) layer using TCTA and TPBi to form an exciplex cohost, while a thermoplastic polyurethane (PU) elastomer provides mechanical stretchability. This system enables triplet excitons to undergo reverse intersystem crossing (RISC) within a charge-transfer state, followed by long-range Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) to the phosphorescent dopant. The fabricated OLED demonstrates an EQE of 21.7%, validating the effectiveness of this approach. Beyond the emissive layer, the researchers develop MXene-conductive stretchable electrodes (MCSEs) by integrating a two-dimensional MXene interlayer with silver nanowire (AgNW) networks, achieving a sheet resistance of ~30 Ω/sq with over 85% transmittance at 550 nm and a widely tunable work function (3.79–5.71 eV). They also introduce a stretchable gradient hole injection layer (SGraHIL) that suppresses exciton quenching at the interface while maintaining excellent stretchability. By integrating the SGraHIL, the ExciPh emitting layer, and MCSE electrodes, the authors fabricate fully stretchable OLEDs that achieve an unprecedented EQE of 17%, retaining 83% of initial efficiency after 100 cycles of 20% cyclic strain. This work represents a significant advance in intrinsically stretchable optoelectronics, offering a scalable route toward highly conductive, work-function-tunable contacts and influencing broader fields such as stretchable sensors and soft photonic systems.

### [One-dimensional domain walls: A new dimension for ferroelectric nanoelectronics](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/one-dimensional-domain-walls-a-new-dimension-for-ferroelectric-nanoelectronics) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26020017]
Topological structures in ferroelectric materials, such as vortices, skyrmions, and merons, have attracted significant attention due to their emergent physical properties distinct from the bulk parent phase. Among these, ferroelectric domain walls (DWs) have long been considered potential active elements for next-generation electronic devices, leading to the paradigm of "domain wall nanoelectronics." However, conventional perovskite ferroelectrics exhibit two-dimensional (2D) domain walls, and charged domain walls (CDWs) suffer from structural broadening due to electronic screening, limiting miniaturization. Recently, a research team led by Chen Ge, Kui-juan Jin, and Qinghua Zhang from the Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, reported the groundbreaking observation of one-dimensional (1D) CDWs in fluorite-structured ferroelectric ZrO2, achieving atomic-scale confinement. Using multislice electron ptychography, they visualized head-to-head and tail-to-tail CDWs with atomic-scale width and thickness (~2.55 Å and ~2.7 Å), equivalent to a single subcell unit. The stability of these atomically thin walls is attributed to a distinct ionic screening mechanism: self-balanced oxygen nonstoichiometry, where H–H walls accumulate excess oxygen ions and T–T walls harbor oxygen vacancies. Furthermore, in situ electric-field experiments demonstrated dynamic manipulation of these 1D structures, revealing a coupling between polarization switching and oxygen ion transport. This discovery breaks the inherent physical limitations of perovskite ferroelectrics and opens new avenues for high-density ferroelectric nanoelectronics.

### [Large-scale integrated photonic accelerators for ultralow-latency and universal AI computing](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/large-scale-integrated-photonic-accelerators-for-ultralow-latency-and-universal-ai-computing) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26020057]
Integrated silicon photonics has emerged as a transformative technology for post-Moore's law computing, offering intrinsic advantages of high bandwidth, ultralow latency, and low energy consumption that far exceed traditional electronic computing architectures. As artificial intelligence (AI) models continue to grow in complexity and scale, the demand for high-speed, energy-efficient computing has spurred intensive research into photonic computing as a promising alternative to electronic accelerators. Matrix multiply-accumulate (MAC) operations, the core of deep learning and combinatorial optimization algorithms, are particularly amenable to photonic implementation, as light enables parallel multiplication and accumulation with minimal data movement. However, the practical application of photonic computing has long been hindered by critical challenges including large-scale integration of photonic components, electro-optical co-packaging, guaranteed computation accuracy of analog photonic systems, and compatibility with mainstream AI models and algorithms. Recently, two groundbreaking studies published back-to-back in Nature have achieved pivotal breakthroughs in addressing these bottlenecks, demonstrating large-scale integrated photonic accelerators with ultralow latency for combinatorial optimization and universal AI computing capabilities for state-of-the-art neural networks. The two works represent the most advanced level of photonic computing hardware implementation to date, validating the feasibility of photonic accelerators as a competitive alternative to electronic AI chips and marking a critical step toward the commercialization of integrated photonic computing technology.

### [Re-benchmarking Polarization in Wurtzite Nitride Semiconductors](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/re-benchmarking-polarization-in-wurtzite-nitride-semiconductors) [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.

### [Tensile-Shear Collaborative Fracturing in Hard Rock Induced by a Controllable Free Surface: Mechanism and Application](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/tensile-shear-collaborative-fracturing-in-hard-rock-induced-by-a-controllable-free-surface-mechanism-and-appli) [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.

### [Mechanisms of enhanced wettability and nanomechanical strength in soft coal seams modified by acidic SiO2 nanofluids](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/mechanisms-of-enhanced-wettability-and-nanomechanical-strength-in-soft-coal-seams-modified-by-acidic-sio2-nano) [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2026.03.001]
Conventional hydraulic fracturing is widely used for underground gas control in coal mines; however, in deep, soft coal seams, poor wettability and low mechanical strength can cause rapid energy release under gas pressure and mining-induced disturbances. These conditions increase the risk of coal and gas outbursts, complicate rapid outburst elimination, and pose serious threats to safe mine operations. In this study, SiO2 nanofluid solutions with varying acidity were prepared, and molecular dynamics simulations, contact angle measurements, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, nanoindentation tests, and three-dimensional super-depth microscopy were employed to systematically investigate the mechanisms by which acidic SiO2 nanofluids enhance the wettability and nanomechanical strength of soft coal seams. The results show that SiO2 nanoparticles act as bridging agents between water molecules and the coal matrix. In the high-mass fraction H2O/SiO2/coal system, the adsorption layer thickness increases from 15.44 Å in the pure water system to 20.51 Å. Acidic SiO2 nanofluids substantially reduce the coal-water contact angle; at pH 2, the contact angle decreases to 47.9°, representing a 43.86% reduction relative to raw coal. The total absorption peak area of oxygen-containing functional groups increased accordingly, promoting a transition of the coal surface from hydrophobic to hydrophilic. SiO2 nanofluids with varying acidity also induce pronounced changes in the mechanical properties of coal samples. Under mildly acidic conditions (pH 5), the elastic modulus and hardness increase by 17.880% and 18.794%, respectively, while the peak displacement and contact displacement decrease by 8.056% and 8.117%. Mild acidity promotes the formation of local micropores and facilitates the embedding of SiO2 nanoparticles, enhancing structural support and improving nanomechanical performance. In contrast, under strong acidic conditions, the corrosion effect outweighs the supporting role of the nanoparticles, resulting in mechanical degradation. Overall, the synergistic effects of acidic environments and SiO2 nanofluids significantly influence the wettability and mechanical behavior of coal. By elucidating their combined modification mechanisms, this study provides theoretical support and new perspectives for fluid-injection enhancement and dynamic disaster prevention in deep, soft coal seams.

### [NaNO2-loaded mesoporous MgO for high-efficiency CO2 capture: Synthesis, characterization and novel mechanistic insights](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/nano2-loaded-mesoporous-mgo-for-high-efficiency-co2-capture-synthesis-characterization-and-novel-mechanistic-i) [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2026.02.006]
The development of efficient CO2 adsorbents is critical for achieving net-zero targets. MgO represents a promising solid adsorbent for CO2 capture, yet its limited specific surface area and insufficient active sites restrict its adsorption capacity under moderate temperature conditions. A rod-like anhydrous MgCO3 precursor was hydrothermally synthesized and calcined at 500 °C for 3 h to obtain porous MgO (184.9 m2 g−1, 0.38 cm3/g), which was then modified with 20% NaNO2 (by mole) via impregnation. This adsorbent achieved an adsorption capacity of 12.6 mmol g−1 after 120 min under a pure CO2 atmosphere at 325 °C. Comprehensive characterization reveals that NaNO2 modification leads to the NaNO3 and Na2CO3 formation on the MgO surface during calcination. The introduced NaNO3 effectively promotes oxygen vacancy formation, while the generated Na2CO3 serves as heterogeneous nucleation sites, collectively reducing the reaction energy barrier and enhancing interfacial mass transfer. This synergistic effect facilitates the MgCO3 formation followed by its conversion to the thermodynamically more stable Na2Mg(CO3)2. Kinetic studies elucidate that adsorption is dominated by surface chemical reactions and diffusion mechanisms at different stages. These fundamental insights into the adsorption mechanisms of nitrite-modified MgO provide valuable guidance for the rational design of advanced MgO-based CO2 adsorbents with enhanced performance.

### [Energy characteristics during the progressive shear failure of rock joints and brittleness evaluation](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/energy-characteristics-during-the-progressive-shear-failure-of-rock-joints-and-brittleness-evaluation) [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2026.03.004]
The energy-driven progressive brittle shear failure of rock joints is a key mechanism behind deep engineering disasters such as joint-induced rockbursts and engineering earthquakes. To investigate the energy evolution mechanisms and disaster proneness, monotonic and stepwise loading-unloading tests were performed on regular dentate joints under constant normal stiffness boundary conditions. Results indicate a transition in damage mechanism from climbing wear of low-inclination asperities to brittle rupture of high-inclination ones, accompanied by a marked decrease in irreversible displacement. Energy analysis reveals a strong linear relationship between pre-peak elastic energy density and both input energy density and shear stress squared. The post-peak elastic energy release rate (g) and the self-sustaining instability coefficient (l) increase with joint undulation. A dimensionless brittleness index (BI) integrating the complete energy conversion and release process was proposed to quantify the energy balanced budget. The highly undulated joint R4 showed the most pronounced brittleness and instability intensity with the highest BI value of 0.697, along with g = 0.774 and l = 0.611. This study provides deeper insight into the understanding of the disaster-inducing proneness and stability assessment in jointed rock mass.

### [Unravelling the pH-Driven Multiscale Cascade of Hematite Flocculation: From Interfacial Tuning to Structural Assembly and Sedimentation Dynamics](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/unravelling-the-ph-driven-multiscale-cascade-of-hematite-flocculation-from-interfacial-tuning-to-structural-as) [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2026.02.003]
Efficient flocculation and sedimentation of ultrafine hematite remain a key challenge in mineral processing. This study elucidates the pH-dependent flocculation behaviour of hematite with anionic polyacrylamide (APAM) using a multi-scale correlation framework integrating interfacial analysis, structural characterization, and sedimentation evaluation. Increasing pH induces progressive surface deprotonation, yielding a more negative hematite surface and enhanced APAM adsorption from 0.106 to 0.186 mg/m2. FTIR, XPS, and molecular dynamics simulations consistently reveal strengthened Fe–OOC coordination, intensified hydrogen bonding, and more stabilised polymer conformations under alkaline conditions. Microscopy, SEM, and FBRM show that alkaline conditions facilitate the formation of larger and denser flocs, with size increasing from 56 to 982 μm and fractal dimension from 1.44 to 1.87. These structural changes markedly improve sedimentation performance, reducing turbidity from 436.8 to 76.7 NTU and increasing settled solids from 35.94 to 52.43 percent. The proposed multi-scale correlation model quantitatively links interfacial chemistry, floc structural evolution, and settling behaviour, providing a unified mechanistic basis for pH-regulated hematite flocculation. This framework not only advances understanding of polymer–mineral interactions but also offers practical guidance for optimising solid–liquid separation and tailings-water recycling in fine mineral beneficiation.

### [Consolidation-Sealing of In-Situ Internal Stress in Deep Rocks: Device Development and Mechanical Behavior Characterization](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/consolidation-sealing-of-in-situ-internal-stress-in-deep-rocks-device-development-and-mechanical-behavior-char) [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2026.02.007]
Addressing the scientific problem of unclear understanding of in-situ internal stress and its evolution in deep rock masses, a scientific definition and implementation path for the concept of in-situ internal stress consolidation-sealing in deep rock masses are proposed, and a set of in-situ internal stress consolidation-sealing test device for deep rock masses has been independently developed. The device consists of a material consolidation cultivation module, an in-situ internal stress environment simulation module, and a multi-source information capture module. And the three mechanical tests of internal stress preservation, internal stress release and conventional were carried out with the device. The evolution law of the deformation parameters in the internal stress consolidation-sealing stage was studied, and the difference characteristics of the deformation parameters before and after the internal stress releasing were compared and analyzed. The results show that the internal stress consolidation-sealing significantly affects the mechanical properties of the simulated rock material, while the internal stress release leads to the damage of the material properties, suggesting that the presence and influence of internal stress should not be overlooked. This study could provide a new research direction and scientific devices for the expansion and deepening of the field of deep in-situ rock mechanics.

### [One-dimensional charged domain walls in fluorite ferroelectrics](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/one-dimensional-charged-domain-walls-in-fluorite-ferroelectrics) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26020026]
Ferroelectric domain walls are conventionally regarded as two-dimensional (2D) interfacial objects that separate regions of different polarization within a crystal. This picture has guided decades of research into polarization switching, domain evolution, and ferroic functionality. In most ferroelectrics, electrostatic considerations strongly favor head-to-tail (H–T) polarization configurations, which minimize bound charge and reduce electrostatic energy. By contrast, charged domain walls (CDWs) carry positive or negative bound polarization charge and form where polarization vectors arrange head-to-head (H–H) or tail-to-tail (T–T), generally considered energetically unfavorable. When such charged walls do occur, they are typically stabilized only as extended 2D structures through a combination of electronic screening, defect accumulation, and lattice relaxation. Despite these energetic constraints, CDWs have attracted growing interest over the past decade because of their emergent functional properties, including enhanced electrical conductivity, strong electromechanical coupling, and reconfigurable electronic behavior localized at charged walls, motivating the broader concept of domain-wall nanoelectronics. Nevertheless, ferroelectric domain walls have almost universally been treated as quasi-2D objects. Further reduction of their dimensionality has long been assumed to be impractical, particularly for charged walls, because confining bound polarization charge to lower dimensions would dramatically increase electrostatic energy. Against this backdrop, Zhong et al. reported the direct observation of one-dimensional (1D) CDWs confined within individual polar layers of ferroelectric ZrO2 (Science (2026)). Using atomic-resolution electron microscopy combined with in situ electric-field manipulation, they demonstrated that both H–H and T–T CDWs can exist as atomic-scale line defects rather than extended 2D interfaces, with their bound polarization charge stabilized through a self-balancing oxygen compensation mechanism. The discovery represents an extreme limit of ferroelectric domain-wall confinement and introduces a fundamentally new class of polar topological objects that occupy an intermediate conceptual regime between conventional domain walls and line defects.

### [Supermoiré Domains in Helical Trilayer Graphene](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/supermoire-domains-in-helical-trilayer-graphene) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26030014]
Helical trilayer graphene (HTG), composed of three graphene layers with equal twist angles in the same rotational sense, has emerged as a rich platform for studying moiré physics. Theoretical predictions suggest that lattice relaxation in HTG leads to the formation of triangular domains with uniform moiré wavelength, arranged on a larger supermoiré length scale, with adjacent domains carrying opposite Chern numbers and hosting topological boundary modes. In a recent study, Hoke and colleagues directly imaged this supermoiré landscape using a scanning single-electron transistor (SET) probe sensitive to local electronic compressibility. Their measurements revealed a periodic modulation with a length scale of several hundred nanometers, far exceeding the moiré wavelength, consistent with theoretical predictions. The spatial maps showed a triangular lattice of domain centers and a honeycomb network of AAA-stacking regions, separated by domain walls with reduced compressibility. Notably, the observed domain areas deviated from ideal expectations, indicating the presence of heterostrain. Modeling showed that biaxial strain applied to the middle layer can substantially enhance the supermoiré wavelength, with a divergence at a critical strain. After thermal cycling, the device exhibited larger and more isotropic supermoiré domains while the local twist angle remained unchanged, demonstrating that strain can be used to engineer the supermoiré network without perturbing local moiré physics. These findings underscore that lattice relaxation and strain are powerful tuning parameters in twistronics, with implications for engineering topological and correlated phases in twisted multilayers.

### [Estimation of characteristic stresses in granite through acoustic emission monitoring of microcrack fracture mode evolution](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/estimation-of-characteristic-stresses-in-granite-through-acoustic-emission-monitoring-of-microcrack-fracture-m) [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2026.02.001]
Characteristic stresses are critical indicators for microcrack initiation and propagation in rock, a process intrinsically linked to fracture mode. To investigate fracture mode evolution and its feasibility for estimating characteristic stresses, this study conducted uniaxial compression and cyclic loading-unloading tests on fine- and coarse-grained granite with acoustic emission (AE) monitoring. Cyclic target stresses were set within intervals determined by characteristic stresses. Analysis using the AE parameters AF-RA revealed that fracture mode evolution correlates with damage level, and shear microcrack propagation primarily governs macroscopic failure. A characteristic stress estimation method was developed by mapping key points on the shear crack proportion curve: crack closure stress (transition between fluctuating and stable segments), crack initiation stress (inflection point of curve rise), and crack damage stress (slope change point in ascending segment). Comparative analysis with the crack volumetric strain method validated the proposed method. The influences of fracture mode dividing line and statistical interval were discussed, with practical recommendations provided. Compared to conventional AE parameters, the fracture mode proportion exhibits lower sensitivity to AE parameter variations, enabling more reliable identification of characteristic stress points. Furthermore, it directly reflects microcrack evolution behavior, enhancing interpretability and providing a novel perspective for AE-based characteristic stress determination.

### [Three-Panchromatic Organic Self-Adaptive Transistors for In-Pixel Color Correction](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/three-panchromatic-organic-self-adaptive-transistors-for-in-pixel-color-correction) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26020023]
Machine vision systems face a fundamental challenge of illumination-dependent color shift, which conventional post-capture white-balance correction methods address at the cost of computational overhead and latency. Inspired by the human retina's chromatic adaptation, we propose a three-panchromatic organic self-adaptive transistor (OAAT) that embeds color correction directly at the pixel level. The device integrates a dual-layer complementary bulk heterojunction (BHJ) into an organic transistor architecture: a PTB7-Th:IEICO-4F blend serves as the adaptive photoresponse layer with broad-spectrum absorption and wavelength-insensitive trap activation energy that decreases with light intensity, while a PDPP3T:PCBM layer provides spectrally compensatory sensing. This design enables rapid, stable, and intensity-dependent photoadaptation, with an active adaptation index exceeding 150 for red, green, and blue stimuli. Under spectrally biased illumination, the device's responses follow von Kries coefficients and converge to a white-like chromatic state within seconds, demonstrating true chromatic adaptation. Wafer-scale fabrication achieved a 96.1% yield across 256 transistors, with pixel density of 347 ppi and over one million pixels integrated on a four-inch sapphire substrate. In a hybrid artificial visual system combining the OAAT array with a lightweight CNN, in-sensor correction restored classification accuracy for 'frog' in CIFAR-10 from 59.1% to 96.3% under blue-light interference, and outperformed conventional RGB cameras in real-world non-uniform lighting. This work presents a scalable, hardware-based solution for in-pixel color correction, promising for energy-efficient and real-time machine vision.

### [Mitigating phosphonic acid-perovskite interfacial degradation via molecular engineering for ultra-stable solar cells](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/mitigating-phosphonic-acid-perovskite-interfacial-degradation-via-molecular-engineering-for-ultra-stable-solar) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26020002]
Metal halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are revolutionizing next-generation photovoltaics by combining high efficiency with low-cost solution processing and flexible compatibility. Certified efficiencies now surpass 27%, nearing the theoretical limit for single-junction cells and highlighting their strong potential for commercialization. In contrast to traditional silicon cells, which require high-temperature processing and rigid substrates, PSCs can be fabricated near room temperature using earth-abundant materials, significantly lowering energy consumption and production costs. However, their commercialization is hindered by a fundamental challenge: insufficient long-term operational stability. PSCs must endure harsh real-world conditions, including elevated temperatures (≥85 °C) and full-spectrum illumination. Meeting the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standard of ≥25 years of service life remains an unresolved critical hurdle for SAM-based PSCs. The hole-transport layer (HTL) plays a decisive role in both the efficiency and long-term stability of PSCs, responsible for efficiently extracting photogenerated holes from the perovskite layer to the transparent conductive oxide electrode. Inadequate extraction leads to severe interfacial charge recombination and significant efficiency losses. Among various HTL materials, phosphonic acid-based self-assembled monolayers (PA-SAMs) have become the material of choice for inverted-structure PSCs, owing to their molecular-scale precision, ultrathin film formation, and superior energy-level alignment—properties that effectively suppress non-radiative recombination and enhance initial device performance. Nevertheless, their practical application is severely limited by an inherent flaw: PA-SAMs primarily anchor to ITO surfaces via weak hydrogen bonds, which dissociate under photothermal stress. This triggers molecular desorption and migration into the perovskite layer, inducing degradation and eventual performance decline. To tackle this persistent issue, Fei et al. report a transformative molecular engineering strategy that unlocks ultra-stable PSCs (Science 2026, https://doi.org/10.1126/science.adz7969). The team designed a triphenylamine-based phosphonic acid (1PA-TPD) with robust covalent anchoring to ITO substrates and optimized a mixed SAM system (60 wt% 1PA-TPD + 40 wt% EtCz3EPA), successfully suppressing interfacial reactivity between PA-SAMs and perovskites. This multifunctional strategy integrates strong substrate binding, interfacial reaction inhibition, crystallinity enhancement, and defect passivation.

### [A Transferable Route to Two-Dimensional Gate-All-Around Electronics](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/a-transferable-route-to-two-dimensional-gate-all-around-electronics) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26020058]
The relentless drive for miniaturization in microelectronics, guided by Moore's Law, is approaching a critical inflection point. Silicon-based transistors are confronting fundamental physical limits at the atomic scale, where issues of power leakage and degraded electrostatic control become increasingly severe. To sustain performance scaling, the semiconductor industry is transitioning to gate-all-around (GAA) nanosheet architectures for sub-2-nanometer technology nodes. However, integrating atomically thin two-dimensional (2D) semiconductors as channel materials within GAA structures offers a revolutionary path, promising superior electrostatic control and lower power consumption. The grand challenge has been the absence of a scalable, industry-compatible method to synthesize high-quality, uniform 2D semiconductor channels seamlessly encapsulated by high-k gate dielectrics in a GAA configuration. A groundbreaking study by Peng et al. reports the wafer-scale, uniform synthesis of single-crystalline 2D high-k dielectric/semiconductor/high-k dielectric GAA heterostructures via an innovative buffered van der Waals epitaxy technique. The core innovation lies in pre-depositing a high-k van der Waals buffer oxide (α-Bi2SeO5) on an r-plane sapphire substrate, which mitigates lattice mismatch and enables epitaxial growth of uniform Bi2O2Se films. Controlled oxidation transforms the top layer into β-Bi2SeO5, forming a sandwich-like GAA heterostructure with atomically sharp interfaces. The intrinsic transferability of these stacks allows clean exfoliation and transfer onto arbitrary substrates, leaving the sapphire wafer reusable. Field-effect transistors fabricated from these heterostructures exhibit outstanding electrical characteristics: on/off ratios exceeding 10^6 and carrier mobility up to 227 cm²·V⁻¹·s⁻¹. True GAAFETs using both top and bottom gates show improved subthreshold swing and higher on/off ratios, demonstrating superior gate controllability. This work represents a foundational platform technology addressing critical integration challenges for 2D semiconductors, bridging laboratory exploration and foundry-level manufacturing, and enabling monolithic 3D integration for future electronics.

### [Stabilizing Perovskite Fabrication in Ambient Air](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/stabilizing-perovskite-fabrication-in-ambient-air) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26020030]
Perovskite-based solar cells have advanced rapidly due to their high efficiency potential, low-cost processing, and flexible fabrication routes. While silicon solar cells remain the dominant commercial technology, combining perovskites with silicon in tandem architectures offers a clear pathway to exceed the efficiency limits of single-junction devices. By pairing perovskite's tunable absorption with silicon's proven performance, perovskite–silicon tandem solar cells open new opportunities for high-efficiency photovoltaics. Yet translating these advances from laboratory demonstrations to scalable manufacturing remains a major challenge. A central obstacle lies in fabricating high-quality perovskite films under ambient conditions. Moisture in air directly interferes with perovskite crystallization, leading to disordered crystal growth, surface degradation, and the accumulation of non-ideal secondary phases. Although thermal annealing is often used to improve crystallinity, the combined effects of heat and humidity can instead accelerate irreversible degradation when processing in air. Together, these factors make crystallization control under ambient conditions particularly difficult, underscoring the need for new strategies that can stabilize film formation without relying on tightly controlled environments. Previous studies have explored several approaches to optimize perovskite film fabrication in ambient air, such as solvent engineering and longitudinal homogeneous intermediates in hybrid sequential deposition, as well as techniques like the P1.5 process that introduce a diffusion barrier layer. However, challenges persist, particularly in achieving the same performance as films fabricated in controlled environments. Now, writing in Joule, Tan et al. tackle this challenge with a novel approach that intervenes in the wet-film stage to stabilize the crystallization process. Instead of relying on environmental controls to eliminate moisture, the authors introduce an additive, n-butylammonium thiocyanate (nBASCN), to regulate crystallization dynamics. Implemented as part of the hybrid sequential deposition process, this wet-film intervention modifies the crystallization pathway, preventing premature nucleation and promoting uniform growth. The key innovation lies in the use of nBASCN to decouple diffusion from crystallization, enabling uniform crystallization and improving film quality under ambient conditions. This intervention not only improves film quality but also enhances device performance, with nBASCN-treated devices achieving higher power conversion efficiency (PCE) compared to untreated controls. Beyond improving single-junction perovskite solar cells, this approach is also effective for tandem solar cells, demonstrating the strategy's applicability to more complex multi-junction devices. This marks a crucial step toward achieving scalable, high-efficiency tandem solar cells.

### [Improved Solvent Systems for the Commercialization of Perovskite Photovoltaic Modules](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/improved-solvent-systems-for-the-commercialization-of-perovskite-photovoltaic-modules) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26020044]
Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are widely recognized as a transformative technology for next-generation photovoltaics, given their exceptional promise for achieving high power conversion efficiencies (PCE), utilizing low-cost raw materials, and enabling versatile fabrication routes. However, commercialization efforts continue to face considerable obstacles, such as the dependence on toxic solvents, inadequate uniformity in large-area film deposition, and limited operational durability. Conventional perovskite inks commonly rely on highly toxic, high-boiling-point aprotic polar solvents, including N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) and N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP). These solvents present serious environmental and health hazards while also impeding processing speeds and perovskite film quality in scalable high-throughput manufacturing, such as roll-to-roll slot-die coating, owing to their slow evaporation kinetics. Furthermore, residual solvent and heterogeneous crystallization tend to introduce a high density of defects in perovskite films, which undermines the long-term stability and reliability of the resulting perovskite photovoltaic modules (PPM) and hinders compliance with the rigorous standards required for commercial deployment. Thus, the establishment of an eco-friendly and efficient solvent system is essential for enabling the widespread adoption of perovskite technology in the mainstream photovoltaic market. In this context, Wang et al. devised an eco-friendly ink formulation utilizing green solvents (γ-valerolactone (GVL), dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) and 2-methyltetrahydrofuran (2-MeTHF)), and integrated it with a solvent-constrained edge-protection (SCEP) strategy. This approach enhanced the edge quality of perovskite films and lowered defect density under ambient conditions, thereby enabling the scalable production of high-performance PPM (Science, 2025, 390, 1021-1028). These approaches enabled the production of 7200-square-centimeter PPM that achieved a certified stabilized efficiency of 17.2% by NREL. In addition, the scalable module passed all IEC 61215 reliability standards as certified by TÜV Rheinland. This work has realized a PPM with a certified stabilized efficiency of 17.2% over an area of 7200 cm2. The adoption of green solvents not only addresses environmental and regulatory concerns, but also owing to their lower boiling point and the optimized process flow, which reduces energy consumption during production. Combined with slot-die coating technology, which is well-suited for large-scale roll-to-roll manufacturing, the proposed solution demonstrates considerable potential for achieving highly competitive levelized cost of electricity in the future, thereby accelerating the commercialization of perovskite photovoltaics.

### [Heating Rate Effect of Thermal Expansion in Granite and Implications for Rock Breaking](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/heating-rate-effect-of-thermal-expansion-in-granite-and-implications-for-rock-breaking) [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2026.02.004]
The influence of the heating rate on the thermo-mechanical response and damage evolution of rock is a critical factor limiting the safety and efficiency of engineering applications. Conventional models are limited, however, as they assume a static coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) and ignore its dynamic nature under rapid thermal loading. This study confronts this knowledge gap using a synergistic experimental–numerical approach. A custom system combining induction heating and Digital Image Correlation was employed to measure the rate-dependent CTE of both bulk granite and its constituent minerals over various heating rates. These dynamic coefficients were then integrated into a high-fidelity numerical model to simulate microwave-assisted rock breaking. Results definitively show the CTE is strongly rate-dependent. While the quartz phase transition at ~573 °C triggers critical damage, faster heating significantly amplifies strain localization and damage accumulation. Crucially, simulations revealed that under identical microwave loading, the model using dynamic CTE (530 °C/min) reached a 1000 mm² failure area 11 times faster than the model using quasi-static CTE (5 °C/min). This study fundamentally establishes rock's CTE as a dynamic, rate-dependent property, providing a key scientific basis for advancing such thermal fracturing technologies.

### [Preface to Focus Topic on Integrated Circuits, Technologies and Applications (ICTA) 2025](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/preface-to-focus-topic-on-integrated-circuits-technologies-and-applications-icta-2025) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26041001]
This Special Topic of the Journal of Semiconductors (JoS) features expanded versions of key articles presented at the 2025 IEEE International Conference on Integrated Circuits Technologies and Applications (ICTA), held in Macao, China, from October 22 to 24, 2025. IEEE ICTA is an IEEE flagship conference in the field of integrated circuits (IC) in China, providing a platform for sharing state-of-the-art techniques from experts. Among 146 papers presented, the Technical Program Committee and Award Committee selected three high-quality articles covering RF, medical neural interface, and vision sensing ICs. The first article, from Zhejiang University, introduces a fractional-N dual-path SPD/PFD PLL with a complementary digital-to-time converter (DTC) pair for DTC range reduction and INL cancellation. Fabricated in 7 nm FinFET, it achieves 118 fs RMS jitter and -247.5 dB figure-of-merit. The second article, also from Zhejiang University, presents a battery-free neural interface with dual-overlapped on-chip antennas, enabling high-data-rate backscatter for 72-channel simultaneous recording. Fabricated in 65 nm CMOS, the chip integrates 72 channels within 2 mm × 2 mm and achieves 18 Mbps backscatter data rate. The third article, from Southern University of Science and Technology, describes a cascadable stereo matching processor with scalable semi-global matching (SSGM) algorithm, achieving speedups of 178× and 97× over CPU and Edge GPU, respectively. Implemented in 40-nm CMOS, it operates at 160 MHz, processing 80 frames per second with energy efficiency of 7.9 pJ/pixel and core area of 6.04 mm².

### [Ultrathin van der Waals Ferroelectric Oxides for Scalable Low-Power Memory](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/ultrathin-van-der-waals-ferroelectric-oxides-for-scalable-low-power-memory) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26020015]
The continuous scaling of ferroelectric memories to below 5 nm has exacerbated challenges such as depolarization fields, interfacial charge trapping, and structural non-uniformity, which critically bottleneck the performance and consistency of ferroelectric field-effect transistors (FeFETs). Although van der Waals ferroelectrics offer a promising route to overcome interface-related issues and critical-thickness limits, the lack of wafer-scale, CMOS-compatible ultrathin ferroelectric materials with robust polarization and high dielectric constants has hindered practical deployment. In a recent study published in Science (2026), Peng and colleagues report a wafer-scale, ultrathin van der Waals ferroelectric oxide platform that addresses these challenges via a controlled oxidation strategy, transforming a two-dimensional semiconductor precursor into a layered ferroelectric oxide with atomically smooth and chemically coherent interfaces. This native-oxide approach enables robust and switchable polarization down to the monolayer limit, as demonstrated by domain writing and erasing. The platform supports monolithic integration of FeFET arrays over centimetre-scale areas, exhibiting consistent hysteresis windows and switching thresholds across hundreds of devices, with narrow distributions of on/off ratios and threshold voltages. Furthermore, the programmable coupling between ferroelectric polarization and semiconductor channels enables multi-level threshold voltage programmability and stable switching between logic states, positioning these devices as reconfigurable building blocks for low-power memory and computing-in-memory architectures. This work bridges the gap between atomic-scale ferroelectric physics and manufacturable device architectures, offering a scalable path for next-generation non-volatile memory.

### [Material Platforms for Solid-State Single-Photon Sources: Wide Bandgap Semiconductors](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/material-platforms-for-solid-state-single-photon-sources-wide-bandgap-semiconductors) [DOI: 10.1088/1674-4926/26020003]
Single-photon sources are indispensable for scalable quantum information technologies, including quantum communication, key distribution, computing, and sensing. Optically active point defects in solid-state materials, known as color centers, are promising candidates for next-generation single-photon emitters (SPEs) due to their atom-like properties, enabling high efficiency, purity, and indistinguishability, while their solid-state nature facilitates integration into scalable quantum photonic devices. Among these, color centers in wide-bandgap semiconductors are particularly attractive for their stable operation at room temperature or higher and wide spectral tunability. Their compatibility with mature semiconductor technology allows direct integration into practical optoelectronic systems. Recent progress has realized defect-based SPEs in diamond, silicon carbide (SiC), silicon nitride (Si3N4), gallium nitride (GaN), aluminum nitride (AlN), hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN), zinc oxide (ZnO), and beta-phase gallium oxide (β-Ga2O3). This mini-review summarizes recent advances in SPEs based on wide-bandgap semiconductors, highlighting their potential for integrated quantum photonic circuits. Key platforms include diamond, hosting nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers and group-IV impurity-based defects (SiV, GeV, SnV, PbV) with narrow emission lines and nanosecond lifetimes; Si3N4, where native defects in nitrogen-rich films exhibit linearly polarized emission at 567–670 nm with saturated room-temperature single-photon intensity of 5×10^5 cps; and h-BN, with an ultrawide bandgap of ~6 eV, enabling ultrabright, polarized single-photon emission at room temperature, with carbon-related defects (VBCN−) identified as visible quantum emitters. Challenges remain in structural identification and spectral uniformity, but controlled synthesis and strain engineering offer pathways to scalable quantum photonics.

### [Research Progress on the Structural Design and Common Preparation Technologies of Thermal Barrier Coatings](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/research-progress-on-the-structural-design-and-common-preparation-technologies-of-thermal-barrier-coatings) [DOI: 10.16490/j.cnki.issn.1001-3660.2026.12.001]
To address the severe challenges faced by high-temperature components in extreme environments, thermal barrier coating (TBC) technology has become a critical approach to enhance their operating temperature tolerance and extend service life. This paper systematically reviews the research progress on the structural design and common preparation technologies of thermal barrier coatings, focusing on the evolutionary logic and performance characteristics of double-layer and multi-layer structures. It specifically analyzes double-layer structures on nickel-based superalloys, steels, and aluminum alloys, as well as multi-layer structures, dual bond coat + ceramic layer structures, and bond coat + multi-layer ceramic structures obtained through different preparation techniques. The article also elaborates on the intrinsic correlation between the microstructure and coating performance of TBCs prepared by two mainstream techniques: atmospheric plasma spraying (APS) and electron beam physical vapor deposition (EB-PVD). Research indicates that double-layer structures have been widely applied due to their good comprehensive performance; while multi-layer/composite structures constructed with A2B2O7-type ceramic materials show more promising application prospects in terms of temperature resistance, thermal cycling life, and corrosion resistance. In response to the current bottlenecks in TBC technology development, this paper looks forward to key future directions for high-performance TBCs from multiple dimensions, including new material development, new process integration, and advanced structural design, providing a systematic theoretical basis and clear technical pathways for the development of TBCs under more demanding service conditions.

### [Pull-out capacity and energy absorption of cable bolts under impact loading](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/pull-out-capacity-and-energy-absorption-of-cable-bolts-under-impact-loading) [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijmst.2025.10.013]
This study investigates the performance of high-strength cable bolts under impact loading conditions representative of rock bursts in underground environments. Although widely used, the dynamic behaviour of these cable bolts has received limited experimental attention, and their effectiveness in seismically active zones remains a subject of ongoing debate. To address this gap, a reverse pull-out test machine integrated with a drop hammer rig was employed. Tests were conducted on 70-t SUMO bulbed and non-bulbed cable bolts with encapsulation lengths of 300 and 450 mm, subjected to an impact energy of 14.52 kJ. Results indicate that non-bulbed cables, despite showing lower initial peak loads (average 218 vs. 328 kN for bulbed cables at 300 mm encapsulation), demonstrated superior energy absorption (average 11.26 vs. 8.75 kJ) and displacement capacity (average 48.40 vs. 36.25 mm). Increasing the encapsulation length for bulbed cables led to a reduction in initial peak load but improved displacement and energy absorption. The dominant failure mechanism was debonding at the cable-grout interface, characterised by frictional sliding and cable rotation. These findings provide new insights into the energy dissipation mechanisms of cables and support the development of more resilient ground support systems for dynamically active conditions.

### [Effect of eutectic content on microstructure and mechanical properties of Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloys](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/effect-of-eutectic-content-on-microstructure-and-mechanical-properties-of-al-zn-mg-cu-alloys) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5156-8]
The 7xxx series aluminum alloys have emerged as a particularly promising class of lightweight structural materials. However, the inherent strength of these materials is primarily influenced by the content and type of alloying elements added during the manufacturing process, as well as casting defects. The present study investigated the effects of eutectics formed by solute atoms (Zn, Mg, and Cu), with equal mass ratios (Zn/Mg=2, Mg/Cu=3) but varying overall contents, on the liquid film thickness, crack propagation depth, and the mechanical properties of the Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy after heat treatment. The results from gravity casting indicate that the intergranular liquid film thickness increases with the increase of eutectic content. A thick intergranular liquid film in the casting can accommodate greater strain during grain contraction, thereby preventing liquid film rupture and subsequent hot tearing. Concurrently, during the solution treatment at 475 °C, the residual eutectic fraction in the Al-7Zn-3.5Mg-1.18Cu alloy diminishes from 9.1% at 10 h to 0.35% at 40 h. At 165 °C, the Al-6Zn-3.0Mg-1.0Cu alloy exhibits the optimal mechanical properties, with a peak aging tensile strength of 510 MPa and an elongation of 6.4%. The incorporation of lower concentrations of solute atoms (Zn, Mg, and Cu) serves to reduce the barrier to dislocation precipitation, thereby enhancing alloy plasticity. However, when the proportion of alloying elements exceeds the solubility limit of the α-Al matrix at specific heat treatment temperatures, coarse residual phases remain intergranular, thereby significantly impairing the mechanical properties of the alloy. This study provides a reference for the optimal addition level of the main strengthening elements in Al‑Zn‑Mg‑Cu alloys.

### [Achieving optimal strength-conductivity balance in cast Al-2.3Fe-Mg-Si alloys via Mg/Si ratio regulation](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/achieving-optimal-strength-conductivity-balance-in-cast-al-23fe-mg-si-alloys-via-mgsi-ratio-regulation) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5183-5]
The Al-2.3Fe eutectic alloy is regarded as a promising substitute for Cu conductors in automotive motors owing to its excellent castability and low resistivity. However, its application is restricted by the mutually exclusive relationship between electrical conductivity and mechanical strength. The microstructure and mechanical properties of Al-2.3Fe alloy were modified through Mg/Si alloying combined with T6 heat treatment in this work, leading to the development of a high-performance cast Al-2.3Fe-Mg-Si alloy. In the Al-2.3Fe-0.40Mg-0.72Si (Mg/Si=0.56) alloy subjected to T6 treatment, an electrical conductivity of (52.5±0.6)% IACS is achieved, while the ultimate tensile strength is significantly enhanced to 309.5±5.6 MPa. The addition of Mg and Si brings about marked changes in the solidification process of the Al-2.3Fe alloy, resulting in considerable variations in both the morphology of the second phase and its phase constitution. The aging behavior of the alloy is governed by second phase and solid solubility. Through optimization of the Mg/Si ratio, the aging response can be effectively enhanced. At the ratio of Mg/Si=0.56, a balance is achieved between solid solubility and precipitation, while simultaneously minimizing the detrimental impact on electrical conductivity and reaching the best mechanical properties and electrical conductivity in peak-aged Al-2.3Fe-xMg-ySi alloy. This work providing valuable insights for developing advanced conductor materials.

### [Dimensional control of turbine blades via RSM-based process parameter optimization in investment casting](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/dimensional-control-of-turbine-blades-via-rsm-based-process-parameter-optimization-in-investment-casting) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5175-5]
To address the dimensional accuracy challenges in investment casting of DD6 nickel-based superalloy hollow turbine blades, a multi-parameter collaborative optimization and deformation response prediction method based on response surface methodology was proposed. Using a Box-Behnken design, with pouring temperature, shell temperature, and withdrawal rate as key variables, deformation response data were obtained through numerical simulation, and a second-order model incorporating linear, interaction, and quadratic terms was established to characterize the nonlinear coupling effects of process parameters on dimensional deformation. The results indicate that withdrawal rate is the dominant factor influencing deformation, while shell temperature exhibits a pronounced “U”-shaped nonlinear trend. Significant interactions between process parameters are also observed. The constructed model demonstrates high predictive accuracy, with R2 of 0.978 and an RMSE of 0.0026 mm, and exhibits strong generalization capability, enabling the identification of optimal parameter combinations even beyond the simulated dataset. Compared with conventional orthogonal design methods, the maximum deformation of the optimized process was reduced from 0.2021 mm to 0.1905 mm, achieving an improvement of approximately 5.74%. This work provides a theoretical foundation and practical strategy for dimensional accuracy control and multi-parameter process optimization in the manufacturing of complex thin-walled castings.

### [Effects of TiB2 on microstructure, mechanical properties, and fluidity of AlSi10MnMg alloy fabricated by high-pressure die casting](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/effects-of-tib2-on-microstructure-mechanical-properties-and-fluidity-of-alsi10mnmg-alloy-fabricated-by-high-pressure-die-casting) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5150-1]
Optimizing the mechanical properties and fluidity of hypoeutectic Al-Si alloys in high-pressure die casting (HPDC) is critical for manufacturing thin-walled components with large sizes. The performance and fluidity of castings over long flow distances depend on the precise control of solidification behavior during the complex HPDC process. In this study, an AlSi10MnMg alloy was fabricated using a fluidity test mold with three channels of different thicknesses to investigate the influence of varying TiB2 content on the microstructure, mechanical properties, and fluidity of the alloy during long-distance filling in HPDC. Results indicate that the addition of 0.018wt.% TiB2 significantly reduces externally solidified crystals (ESCs) and porosity contents, improving the filling distance from 1,700 mm to 1,833 mm. The reduction in ESCs in the castings by TiB2 is attributed to its ability to promote the migration of ESCs from the shot sleeve toward the melt center, where temperature and flow velocity are higher. At a filling distance of 1,300 mm, the ultimate tensile strength (UTS), yield strength (YS), and elongation increase notably with addition of 0.018wt.% TiB2. When the addition of TiB2 increases to 0.036wt.%, the area fraction of ESCs in the channel increases compared to that with 0.018wt.%, and the filling distance slightly decreases to 1,796.9 mm. The mechanical properties of the alloy with 0.036wt.% TiB2 are better than those of the alloy with 0.018wt.% TiB2 over short distances, but become inferior beyond 1,000 mm. This work reveals the role of TiB2 in regulating solidification and flow during long-range filling, offering new insights into the processability of HPDC Al-Si alloys.

### [Regulating creep behavior via dynamic in-situ precipitation of Ti3AlC phase in Ti45Al8Nb-0.6C alloy](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/regulating-creep-behavior-via-dynamic-in-situ-precipitation-of-ti3alc-phase-in-ti45al8nb-06c-alloy) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5201-7]
TiAl alloys are attractive for high-temperature structural applications, yet their creep resistance and microstructural stability at high temperatures remain critical challenges. In this study, Ti45Al8Nb-0.6C alloy was prepared by vacuum induction melting to investigate its creep behavior and underlying deformation mechanisms at 800 °C under 200 MPa. The alloy exhibits a relatively homogeneous microstructure composed of (γ+α2) lamellar colonies, B2 phase, and blocky γ phase, with a creep life of 137 h and a typical ductile-brittle mixed fracture mode. Post-creep microstructural characterization reveals pronounced B2 phase formation, deformation twinning, lamellar coarsening, and abundant stacking faults at lamellar interfaces. Extensive dynamic recrystallization occurs during creep, leading to the formation of fine recrystallized grains. The Ti3AlC phase plays a dual strengthening role by effectively impeding dislocation motion and developing characteristic defect structures, including high-density dislocations and ladder-like stacking faults during deformation. These synergistic microstructural evolutions contribute to the enhanced creep resistance of the alloy.

### [Optimization of multi-process parameters in secondary cooling solidification process of S30432 continuous casting billet](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/optimization-of-multi-process-parameters-in-secondary-cooling-solidification-process-of-s30432-continuous-casting-billet) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5185-3]
The synergistic mechanism of multiple process parameters on the solidification structure of niobium containing austenitic stainless steel during continuous casting is complex, which seriously affects the quality of continuous casting billets and seamless pipes. In order to optimize the quality of continuous casting billet, a finite element model of solidification and heat transfer in continuous casting process was established for the secondary cooling process of continuous casting billet. The control variable method was used to explore the influence of casting speed and superheat on the solidification process. At the same time, an orthogonal scheme was designed to study the coupling effect of multiple process parameters on the heat transfer and solidification state of continuous casting billets, and optimized process parameters were selected. The optimization results of process parameters were verified through production experiments, and it is found that the enrichment of coarse niobium compounds directly causes the initiation and propagation of inner wall cracks during the large deformation hot piercing of S30432 seamless tubes. Process parameter optimization, especially the synergistic effect of the decrease of superheat and increase of specific water flow promotes the grain refinement and expension of equiaxed crystal zone, thereby mitigating the segregation of Nb elements and improving the distribution of niobium compounds.

### [Effect of Nb, Ti introduction sequence on adsorption of Nb on TiB2 surface and grain refinement performance of Al-4Ti-1Nb-1B](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/effect-of-nb-ti-introduction-sequence-on-adsorption-of-nb-on-tib2-surface-and-grain-refinement-performance-of-al-4ti-1nb-1b) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5182-6]
Abstract: In recent years, Al-Ti-Nb-B grain refiners have attracted increasing attention due to their grain refinement performance and anti-Si poisoning ability. This study investigates the influence of the introduction sequence of Ti and Nb during the synthesis of Al-4Ti-1Nb-1B refiners on their refinement performance on CP-Al and a series of Al-Si alloys (Al-3.5Si, Al-7Si, and Al-10.5Si). It is found that Al-4Ti-1Nb-1B prepared by introducing Ti prior to Nb exhibits the best grain refinement and anti-Si poisoning compared to samples where Nb is introduced before Ti or where both are added simultaneously. This Ti-first approach demonstrates superior grain refinement performance across CP-Al, Al-3.5S1, Ai-7Si, and Al-10.5Si alloys, especially at higher Si contents. It refines the grain size of Al-7Si to 150.1±27.5 μm from over 1,500 μm for the unrefined alloy. This superior performance is attributed to the variation in ground-state energy ΔE for the Ti prior to Nb sequence is lower than that of other sequences, thereby facilitating Nb adsorption on the TiB2 surface. TEM observations corroborate these findings, showing that TiB2 prepared by this sequence has the highest average Nb content of 3.80at.%. First-principles calculations reveal that this unique Nb adsorption enhances the TiB2/Al interfacial adhesion energy Wad and suppresses the segregation tendency of Si atoms at the interface, κSi(cSi). The higher the Nb adsorption at the TiB2/Al interface, the stronger the resistance to Si poisoning. These findings underscore the pivotal role of Nb-modified TiB2 in improving grain refinement and offer a novel strategy for advancing grain refiner technologies in Al-Si alloys.

### [In situ monitoring of surface depressions in metal laser additive manufacturing and its interlayer transfer mechanism](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/in-situ-monitoring-of-surface-depressions-in-metal-laser-additive-manufacturing-and-its-interlayer-transfer-mechanism) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5163-9]
In laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) additive manufacturing, surface depressions caused by melt pool instability can induce defects throughout the layer-by-layer printing process. To address the limited understanding of interlayer defect transmission mechanisms, synchrotron X-ray in situ imaging was used to systematically investigate the dynamic evolution of surface depressions during multi-pass printing by adjusting interlayer process parameters. Experimental results show that insufficient energy input in the first layer leads to balling and fracture of melt tracks. When the energy input in the second layer is increased, local overheating at the gap between melt tracks from the previous layer causes surface depressions. Reducing the energy input in the third layer hinders melt backflow, enlarging the depression region. Further lowering the energy input in the final layer leads to the formation of internal unfused defects. This study reveals the dynamic correlation between surface depressions and interlayer defect evolution, offering critical experimental evidence and theoretical guidance for closed-loop interlayer process control in laser additive manufacturing.

### [Effect of critical tempering on microstructure evolution, mechanical performance, and corrosion behavior of a cast multiphase stainless steel](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/effect-of-critical-tempering-on-microstructure-evolution-mechanical-performance-and-corrosion-behavior-of-a-cast-multiphase-stainless-steel) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5206-2]
A novel cast stainless steel featuring a multiphase microstructure and a nominal composition of Fe-13.5Cr-2.6Si-6.9Ni-1.1Cu-1.1Mn-1.0Mo-0.35Al-0.025C (wt.%) was investigated. Following solution treatment at 1,050 °C and water quenching, the specimens were subjected to further tempering at 570 °C, 610 °C, and 650 °C to explore the effects of critical tempering on microstructure, mechanical properties, and corrosion resistance. Various characterization techniques were employed to examine the phase distribution within the microstructure, with particular attention given to the content and morphology of reverted austenite. Tensile and corrosion tests were carried out to evaluate the performance of the specimens. The results reveal that critical tempering significantly enhances the mechanical properties, with the specimen tempered at 610 °C achieving the highest product of strength and elongation (PSE=23.6 GPa·%), whereas corrosion resistance deteriorates with increasing tempering temperature. Calculations of the martensite start temperature (Ms) and stacking fault energy (γSFE) for the reversed austenite in different specimens indicate that the stability of reversed austenite strongly influences mechanical behavior through the TRIP and TWIP effects. However, tempering-induced Cr segregation at ferrite/martensite interfaces and the formation of Cr-depleted zones become more pronounced at higher tempering temperatures, leading to a degradation in corrosion resistance. Furthermore, multiphase coordinated deformation improves the strength-ductility balance, while corrosion tends to initiate at chemically inhomogeneous phase boundaries.

### [Intelligent design of cooling systems for aluminum alloy die-casting dies: A framework integrating topology optimization and particle swarm optimization](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/intelligent-design-of-cooling-systems-for-aluminum-alloy-die-casting-dies-a-framework-integrating-topology-optimization-and-particle-swarm-optimization) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5274-3]
With the growing demand for lightweight and high-performance components in automotive and aerospace industries, aluminum alloy die-castings are evolving toward larger dimensions and thinner walls, posing significant challenges to thermal management during solidification. Traditional cooling channel designs often fail to ensure uniform temperature distribution, leading to defects such as shrinkage porosity and deformation. This study proposes an automated design framework integrating the moving morphable components (MMC) topology optimization method with particle swarm optimization (PSO) to generate efficient and manufacturable cooling channel layouts for A380 aluminum alloys. Firstly, a systematic initialization strategy was developed with component dimensions of 4-10 mm in width and 15-40 mm in length, along with discrete orientation angles. The optimization process effectively guided components toward high-temperature regions identified through numerical simulation, followed by post-processing operations including temperature-based sorting, overlap removal, and component interconnection. The final design with 20 retained components was selected. Then, castings with a conventional cooling system and without any cooling system were employed as benchmark cases for comparison with the current optimized design. Compared with the conventional and no-cooling cases, the current cooling system exhibits a consistently lower temperature standard deviation after 30 s, maintains superior thermal uniformity throughout solidification, and achieves this improvement without comprising the average temperature.

### [Factors influencing high-temperature compressive strength of alkaline phenolic resin-bonded sand](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/factors-influencing-high-temperature-compressive-strength-of-alkaline-phenolic-resin-bonded-sand) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5243-x]
During the casting process, no-bake resin-bonded sand molds and cores rapidly heat up upon contact with high-temperature molten metal, causing dramatic changes in the resin binder system and a significant deterioration in mechanical properties, which subsequently leads to casting defects. To reveal the mechanism behind the evolution of high-temperature performance, the effects of resin content, base sand type, and particle size on the compressive strength of alkaline phenolic no-bake resin-bonded sand at temperatures ranging from 600 °C to 1,000 °C were investigated. The results show that the temperature range of 600-800 °C represents the primary stage of strength loss, corresponding to intense resin decomposition. Meanwhile, structural reorganization of the carbon skeleton above 900 °C can lead to a partial recovery of strength. This study provides key data and theoretical support for understanding the high-temperature mechanical behavior of resin-bonded sand and its relationship with casting defects.

### [Control of fine grain structures and strengthening-toughening mechanisms in magnesium alloys fabricated by wire-arc directed energy deposition](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/control-of-fine-grain-structures-and-strengthening-toughening-mechanisms-in-magnesium-alloys-fabricated-by-wire-arc-directed-energy-deposition) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5146-x]
Wire-arc directed energy deposition (WA-DED) has attracted considerable attention for the fabrication of magnesium (Mg) alloys due to its high efficiency, low cost, and rapid prototyping capability for complex components. However, the inherent rapid solidification and complex thermal cycling associated with WA-DED often result in coarse columnar grains and pronounced mechanical anisotropy, which severely limiting its application potential. In this study, a novel spiral oscillation (SO) strategy was implemented during WA-DED AZ31 Mg alloy to refine the microstructure, reduce mechanical anisotropy, and achieve a strength-ductility synergy. Specifically, the yield strength (YS), ultimate tensile strength (UTS), and elongation (EL) are increased by 9.7%, 38.1%, and 147%, respectively. These improvements by the SO strategy are primarily attributed to the promotion of columnar-to-equiaxed transformation (CET), a 74.2% reduction in maximum texture intensity, and a more uniform distribution of second-phase particles. Second-phase particles are primarily composed of Al8Mn5 and Al8Mn4Y. This study provides a novel strategy for microstructural control aimed at improving the performance of WA-DED AZ31 Mg alloy components.

### [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](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/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) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5208-0]
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.

### [Tuning needle-like precipitation for enhanced strength-ductility synergy in a non-equiatomic FeNiCoCuTi high-entropy alloy](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/tuning-needle-like-precipitation-for-enhanced-strength-ductility-synergy-in-a-non-equiatomic-fenicocuti-high-entropy-alloy) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-025-5127-5]
Precipitation strengthening is an effective strengthening strategy widely utilized in high-entropy alloys (HEAs) with a single-phased face-centered cubic (fcc) structure. In recent research works, reinforcing phase adopted are mostly focused on equiaxed or nearly equiaxed structures (e.g., spherical, cubic, and rod-like), while relatively rare studies on the strengthening effects of needle-like precipitates with large aspect ratios. The η-D024 phase, like the L12 strengthening phase most commonly used in fcc-structured HEAs, features an ordered Ni3Ti-type structure and also exhibits a comparable strengthening effect. However, since the η phase often co-precipitates with other precipitates in alloy system, the strengthening effect of the sole η-D024 phase in fcc-structured alloys remains to be further explored. In this study, microstructural evolution, phase transformation, and mechanical behaviors of a non-equiatomic Fe27Ni27Co26Cu10Ti10 HEA were systematically investigated. Results show that following high-temperature heat treatment, the microstructure of the studied HEA transforms from a combination of the fcc, L12, Cu-rich, and η phases in the as-cast state to a fcc+η structure in the heat-treated state. Meanwhile, the mechanical properties of the heat-treated HEA are significantly improved, with a total elongation increasing from approximately 0.9% to 7.5%. The enhanced ductility of the heat-treated alloy can be attributed to the strong hindering effect of numerous needle-like η phase at the grain boundaries, which restricts crack propagation and dislocation movement. This study develops a novel η-strengthened FeNiCoCuTi HEA, expanding the selection of available reinforcing phases in fcc-structured alloys and providing valuable insights into the phase transformation and strengthening effect of the η-D024 phase.

### [Microstructure and mechanical properties evolution of near-β alloy Ti-4Al-6Cr-5Mo-5Nb-xTa](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/microstructure-and-mechanical-properties-evolution-of-near-alloy-ti-4al-6cr-5mo-5nb-xta) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5263-6]
To meet the aerospace industry’s demand for aircraft featuring high thrust-to-weight ratios and lightweight structures capable of operating in complex service environments, β titanium alloys with high specific strength and good plasticity have become a current research hotspot in the development of domestic fasteners. Based on the calculated Mo equivalent, the alloy composition Ti-4Al-6Cr-5Mo-5Nb is classified as a near-β titanium alloy within the titanium alloy design space. The microstructure is further controlled by adding alloy element Ta with a mass fraction of 0.4wt.%-2.0wt.%. Research results indicate that Ta dissolves completely in the matrix without forming new phases within the investigated range. As the Ta content increases, the proportion of the β phase increases significantly, the β grain diameter decreases markedly from 2.4 mm to 0.4 mm, and the α phase gradually coarsens. When adding 1.6wt.% Ta, the tensile strength and fracture toughness of the alloy reach the peak values of 735 MPa and 55 MPa·m1/2, respectively.

### [Microstructure and mechanical properties of high pressure die casting AE81 magnesium alloy battery module ends](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/microstructure-and-mechanical-properties-of-high-pressure-die-casting-ae81-magnesium-alloy-battery-module-ends) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5154-x]
AE81 magnesium alloy castings for electric vehicle battery module ends were fabricated using high pressure die casting (HPDC). Effects of filling behavior and solidification sequence on the spatial distribution of microstructure and mechanical properties were systematically investigated. The results indicate that along the flow path toward the overflow gate, the area fraction of externally solidified crystals (ESCs) gradually decreases, and the average grain size becomes finer, resulting in a slight increase in yield strength. In addition, the pores’ volume fraction significantly affects ductility and tensile strength, with the gate region exhibiting the highest porosity (0.74%) and thus the lowest elongation (4.3%) and ultimate tensile strength (218 MPa). In other regions, the porosity decreases to 0.33%-0.39%, resulting in increased elongation (6%-7%) and higher ultimate tensile strength (235-242 MPa). Analysis of the microstructure-property relationship reveals that the yield strength follows the Hall-Petch relationship, while elongation and tensile strength are negatively correlated with pore volume fraction. This finding elucidates the mechanism behind the formation of performance gradients in HPDC magnesium alloys and provides a theoretical basis for the design of lightweight components in new energy vehicles.

### [Evolution of microstructure and properties of Cu-12Fe alloys prepared by twin-roll strip casting](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/evolution-of-microstructure-and-properties-of-cu-12fe-alloys-prepared-by-twin-roll-strip-casting) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-025-4045-x]
The Cu-12Fe alloy has attracted significant attention due to its excellent electrical conductivity and electromagnetic shielding capability, high strength, cost-effectiveness, and recyclability. In the present work, the Cu-12Fe alloy strip with the thickness of 2.4 mm was successfully produced by twin-roll strip casting. The microstructure and properties of the Cu-12Fe alloy were tailored by cold rolling and aging treatment. The tensile strength of the as-cast strip is approximately 328 MPa and its elongation is 25%. The Fe phase randomly dispersed in the matrix, and the average size of Fe-rich phase is 2 μm. Besides, enrichment of Fe phase is observed in the central layer of the strip, results in the formation of the “sandwich structure”. Moreover, the as-cast strip of Cu-12Fe was directly cold-rolled from 2.4 to 0.12 mm. The directly cold-rolled sample after aging at 450 °C for 16 h (Process I) shows excellent electrical conductivity of 69.5% IACS, the tensile strength and elongation are 513 MPa and 3.8%, the saturation magnetic flux density is 20.1 emu·g-1, and the coercive force is 25.2 Oe. In Process II, the as-cast strip firstly cold-rolled to 1.2 mm, then aged at 500 °C for 1.5 h, followed by cold rolling to 0.12 mm, finally aged at 450 °C for 16 h. The sample after Process II shows the electrical conductivity of 66.3% IACS, the tensile strength of 533 MPa, an elongation of 3.5%, saturation magnetic flux density of 21.4 emu·g-1, and the coercive force of 22.3 Oe.

### [Influence of Nb addition on microstructure evolution and superplastic behavior of Ti-5Al-5Mo-5Cr-2Zr-xNb titanium alloy at 923 K](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/influence-of-nb-addition-on-microstructure-evolution-and-superplastic-behavior-of-ti-5al-5mo-5cr-2zr-xnb-titanium-alloy-at-923-k) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-025-4248-1]
Ti-5Al-5Mo-5Cr-2Zr-xNb with different Nb (abbreviated as Ti-5552-xNb, x=3, 6, 9, 12, wt.%) contents were stretched at 923 K to study their superplastic behavior and mechanical properties below recrystallization temperature. The microstructure of as-cast Ti-5552-xNb alloy is consisted of a single β phase, and the β grain size increases slightly with the increase of Nb content. The thermal effect in the process of high temperature drawing leads to the precipitation of α phase. The addition of Nb in Ti-5552 titanium alloys reduces the α/β phase transformation temperature, which causes a decrease in the volume fraction of α phase. Reducing the α phase content reduces incompatibility, but too low a proportion of α phase will lead to premature fracture, so tensile strength and plasticity firstly increase and then decrease. The results show that Ti-5552-9Nb titanium alloy shows the best tensile strength (307.2 MPa) and superplasticity (106%). The superplastic mechanism of Ti-5552-9Nb alloy is mainly caused by relative sliding of β grain boundaries and dislocation movement.

### [Effect of cooling rate on solidification behavior and micro-segregation of high-alloyed wrought superalloy GH4975](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/effect-of-cooling-rate-on-solidification-behavior-and-micro-segregation-of-high-alloyed-wrought-superalloy-gh4975) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-025-4083-4]
The high-alloyed wrought superalloy GH4975 tends to form coarse MC carbides and eutectic (γ+γ′) phases, which adversely affect the cogging and homogenization process. To provide theoretical guidance for control of MC carbides and eutectic (γ+γ′) formation, differential thermal analysis (DTA) was utilized to investigate the effect of cooing rate (10-90 °C·min-1) on solidification behavior and micro-segregation of GH4975 alloy. According to the thermodynamic calculation and distribution characteristics of precipitates, the MC carbides can act as nucleation sites for γ dendrites, but the nucleation of γ dendrites becomes less dependent on the MC carbide primers at higher cooling rates. As the γ dendrites grow, the elements including Ti and Nb gradually accumulate in the residual liquid and leads to the formation of more MC carbides near the interdendritic region. Finally, the solidification is terminated with the formation of eutectic (γ+γ′). With an increase in cooling rate, the liquidus temperature rises, but the solidus temperature decreases, and thus the solidification range is obviously enlarged. The dendritic structure is significantly refined by the increase of cooling rate. The secondary dendrite arm spacing, λ2, as a function of cooling rate, , can be expressed as λ2=216.78 -0.42. Moreover, the increasing cooling rate weakens the back diffusion of Al, Ti, and Nb, increases the undercooling, and limits the growth of precipitates. Consequently, the sizes of MC carbides, eutectic (γ+γ′), and primary γ′ significantly decrease, but the area fraction of eutectic (γ+γ′) linerly increases as the cooling rate rises. Thus moderate cooling rate (such as 30 °C·min-1) should be selected during the solidification process of GH4975 alloy.

### [Stray grains evolution and high-temperature stress rupture behavior of crystallographic lamellar microstructure in Ni-based superalloys prepared by laser powder bed fusion](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/stray-grains-evolution-and-high-temperature-stress-rupture-behavior-of-crystallographic-lamellar-microstructure-in-ni-based-superalloys-prepared-by-laser-powder-bed-fusion) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-025-5024-y]
Abstract: The unique crystallographic lamellar microstructure (CLM) Ni-based superalloys fabricated by laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) exhibits excellent tensile properties. This study aims to investigate CLM’s high-temperature stress rupture behavior and use these findings to improve the additive manufacturing process. The result shows that the high temperature-induced intergranular fracture in <110> grain region is responsible for stress rupture failure under both conditions of 760 °C/780 MPa and 980 °C/260 MPa. Among them, the sub-grain boundary fracture occurs only under high temperature and low stress, 980 °C/260 MPa. Due to the severe intergranular fracture induced by stray grains, the stress rupture life is very low under both conditions. According to the finite element simulation, the formation of stray grains stems from the unstable heat flow within the melt pool during the process. In addition, the shorter stress rupture lifetime does not excite a more pronounced dislocation network around the γ′ phase. However, the deformation twins can still be activated inside the <110> grains, so it has excellent plasticity under both test conditions. Finally, this work indicates that the future optimization of CLM by LPBF should focus on eliminating of high-angle grain boundaries in <110> grains.

### [Controlling externally solidified crystals and porosity for enhancing mechanical properties of a die-casting aluminum-silicon alloy](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/controlling-externally-solidified-crystals-and-porosity-for-enhancing-mechanical-properties-of-a-die-casting-aluminum-silicon-alloy) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-025-4147-5]
The effects of the high pressure die casting (HPDC) processes on porosity, microstructure, and mechanical properties of heat-treatment-free aluminum silicon (Al-Si) alloys have long been a focal point in automotive die-casting research. In this work, the combined effect of shot sleeve materials and slow shot speeds on porosity, microstructure and mechanical properties of a newly designed HPDC Al-Si alloy was investigated. Results show that employing a ceramic shot sleeve or increasing the slow shot speed significantly reduces both the average size and area fraction of externally solidified crystals (ESCs), as well as the average pore size and volume fraction. When the slow shot speed is increased from 0.05 m·s-1 to 0.1 m·s-1, the pore volume fraction decreases by 10.2% in steel-shot-sleeve samples, compared to a substantial 67.1% reduction in ceramic-shot-sleeve samples. At a slow shot speed of 0.1 m·s-1, castings produced with a ceramic shot sleeve exhibit superior mechanical properties: 8.3% higher yield strength, 17.4% greater tensile strength, and an 81.4% improvement in elongation, relative to those from a steel shot sleeve. These findings provide valuable insights for minimizing porosity and coarse ESCs in die castings, offering promising potential for broader industrial applications.

### [A review of electroslag remelting composite technologies](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/a-review-of-electroslag-remelting-composite-technologies) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5085-6]
Electroslag remelting (ESR) is an important metallurgical process for producing high-purity materials with homogeneous compositions and sound microstructures, and its typical products are ingots or simple castings. The core principle involves the resistive melting of a consumable electrode within a slag pool, followed by the refining of molten metal droplets as they traverse the slag, and subsequent sequential solidification in a water-cooled mold. However, conventional ESR processes face limitations in producing large or complex-shaped components, enhancing production efficiency, achieving highly specialized microstructures, and meeting ultra-high purity demands for advanced applications. Advanced composite ESR technologies have been developed to overcome these limitations by innovatively modifying key process aspects. For instance, electrode systems are improved using vibration, rotation, or multiple electrodes. Enhanced mold design and solidification control are achieved through techniques including conductive molds, mold rotation, and ingot withdrawal. Precise control of the process is realized through the use of protective gas, vacuum, or elevated pressure, as well as the application of external fields such as magnetic fields or ultrasonic vibration. This review comprehensively summarizes these advanced techniques, examining their principles and characteristics, and discussing their specific advantages and challenges.

### [Titanium alloy with synergistic enhancement of strength and toughness based on molybdenum equivalent design: Microstructure evolution and strengthening-toughening mechanism](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/titanium-alloy-with-synergistic-enhancement-of-strength-and-toughness-based-on-molybdenum-equivalent-design-microstructure-evolution-and-strengthening-toughening-mechanism) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5016-6]
The traditional "trial and error" microstructural control method, with high cost and low efficiency, has become a key issue restricting the development of ultra-high strength and toughness titanium alloys. This study adopts the molybdenum equivalent (Mo[eq]) method to rapidly design Ti-xMo-4Al-4Zr-3Nb-2Cr-1Fe alloys (x=5-9). The as-cast alloys with different Mo[eq] exhibit a single peak of the β phase in XRD. The β grains of 5Mo alloy (the lowest Mo[eq]) exhibit elongated columnar grain characteristics. As the Mo[eq] increases, the β grains transition towards a more equiaxed form, resulting in a decrease in aspect ratio and a reduction in grain size. As the Mo[eq] increases, the α phase content gradually decreases and the α phase is almost unobservable in 9Mo alloy (the highest Mo[eq]). The α phase in 5Mo alloy exhibits short rod-shaped shapes with an average length of about 2.4 μm, while the α phase in 6Mo alloy shows an equiaxed and short rod shapes with the smallest size. The strength, plasticity, and toughness are the lowest in 5Mo alloy, with values of 867 MPa, 7.3%, and 56 MPa·m1/2, respectively. However, it reaches its maximum in 6Mo alloy, where the strength, plasticity, and toughness increase to 984 MPa, 12.8%, and 74 MPa·m1/2, respectively. The mechanical properties of Ti-xMo-4Al-4Zr-3Nb-2Cr-1Fe alloys are affected mainly by solid-solution strengthening of Mo element, refinement of β grain, and changes in α/β phase content. This study lays a certain theoretical foundation for the theoretical research and composition development of new ultra-high strength and toughness titanium alloys.

### [Influence of mold wall thickness on morphologies of defect band in high-pressure die casting technology](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/influence-of-mold-wall-thickness-on-morphologies-of-defect-band-in-high-pressure-die-casting-technology) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-4124-6]
In order to investigate the effect of die wall thickness on morphologies of defect band, a stepped mold with a wall thickness of 5 mm, 4 mm, 3 mm, 2 mm, and 1 mm was designed to carry out high pressure die casting experiments with AlSi10MgMn alloy. For castings with wall thickness of 2-4 mm, the ratio of the mean defect band width (w) and mean grain size (d) in the defect band (w/d) ranges 7-18, while it increases to 24.47 for the 5 mm-thick casting. This difference is related with the filling speed and the distribution of externally solidified crystals (ESCs). The mold flow analysis indicates that the filling speed decreases from 25.41 m·s-1 to 11.07 m·s-1 when wall thickness increases from 2 mm to 5 mm. Due to the decreasing filling speed along the wall thickness, ESCs gradually diffuse from the center to the defect band, which keep the shear strength in the defect band at a high-level during filling. Meanwhile, the shear strength generated during the filling also decreases as the shear rate drops. Finally, the defect bands in the 5 mm-thick region become widen and indistinct, and the porosity is as high as 5.25%.

### [Creep behavior and fracture mechanism of high Al/Nb-containing TiAl alloy](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/creep-behavior-and-fracture-mechanism-of-high-alnb-containing-tial-alloy) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5097-2]
High Al content inhibits the formation of B2 phase, which improves creep resistance in high Al/Nb-containing TiAl alloys. In this work, the microstructure evolution and creep behavior of TiAl based alloy Ti-46Al-8Nb (at.%) with a high Al/Nb content, produced by the vacuum consumable electrode melting technology and the electromagnetic cold crucible melting technology, were studied. The microstructure of the Ti-46Al-8Nb alloy is composed of α2/γ phases arranged in layers with different orientations, which possesses smooth grain boundaries due to small-blocky segregation and irregular serrated grain boundaries caused by large-blocky segregation. Under conditions of 780-820 °C and 125-175 MPa for 200 h, it exhibits typical power-law creep characteristics. The apparent activation energy of creep (Q) and apparent stress exponent (n) of the Ti-46Al-8Nb alloy are Q=274 kJ·mol-1 and n=1.97, respectively. The creep deformation mechanism is grain boundary sliding. Cracks easily form at the smooth boundary. The irregular serrated boundaries with small specific surface area hinder the dislocation movement, thereby improving the boundary creep resistance. When the stress concentration reaches a certain degree, the cracks will initiate between the lamellar structures within the grain. The crack usually propagates along the boundary perpendicular to or at an angle of 45° with the stress axis until creep failure occurs.

### [Effect of Ta addition on microstructure and mechanical properties of Ti46Al1.5Cr8Nb alloy](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/effect-of-ta-addition-on-microstructure-and-mechanical-properties-of-ti46al15cr8nb-alloy) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-025-5004-2]
The microstructure of high Nb-TiAl alloys was optimized by the addition of a small amount of Ta elements to further improve their properties. A series of Ti46Al1.5Cr8Nb-xTa (x=0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, 1.0, at.%) alloys were prepared by vacuum arc melting. The microstructure, mechanical properties, and related influencing mechanisms were systematically investigated. The results indicate that the solidification microstructure of the Ti46Al1.5Cr8Nb-xTa alloys comprises the γ-TiAl phase, α2-Ti3Al phase, and B2 phase. As the Ta content increases from 0.2at.% to 1.0at.%, the content of α2 phase and B2 phase increases, while the γ phase content decreases. Among them, the B2 phase shows the most pronounced change, being significantly refined, with its content increasing from 12.49% to 21.91%. In addition, the average size of the lamellar colony decreases from 160.65 to 94.44 μm. The addition of the Ta element shifts the solidification path toward lower aluminum concentrations, leading to changes in phase content. The tantalum-induced increase in the B2 phase and enhanced supercooling at the solidification front provide the basis for lamellar colony refinement. Compressive testing at room temperature reveals that the Ti46Al1.5Cr8Nb0.4Ta alloy exhibits optimal compressive properties, achieving a compressive strength of 2,434 MPa and a compressive strain of 33.1%. The improvement of its properties is attributed to a combination of lamellar colony refinement, solid solution strengthening resulting from the incorporation of Ta element, and a reduction in the c/a of the γ phase.

### [Investigating inclusions and mechanical properties of 1060 aluminum by salt fluxes refining](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/investigating-inclusions-and-mechanical-properties-of-1060-aluminum-by-salt-fluxes-refining) [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.

### [Automatic gating and riser system design and defect control for K4169 superalloy guide blade casting based on parametric 3D modeling-simulation integrated system](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/automatic-gating-and-riser-system-design-and-defect-control-for-k4169-superalloy-guide-blade-casting-based-on-parametric-3d-modeling-simulation-integrated-system) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5020-x]
Automation and intelligence have become the primary trends in the design of investment casting processes. However, the design of gating and riser systems still lacks precise quantitative evaluation criteria. Numerical simulation plays a significant role in quantitatively evaluating current processes and making targeted improvements, but its limitations lie in the inability to dynamically reflect the formation outcomes of castings under varying process conditions, making real-time adjustments to gating and riser designs challenging. In this study, an automated design model for gating and riser systems based on integrated parametric 3D modeling-simulation framework is proposed, which enhances the flexibility and usability of evaluating the casting process by simulation. Firstly, geometric feature extraction technology is employed to obtain the geometric information of the target casting. Based on this information, an automated design framework for gating and riser systems is established, incorporating multiple structural parameters for real-time process control. Subsequently, the simulation results for various structural parameters are analyzed, and the influence of these parameters on casting formation is thoroughly investigated. Finally, the optimal design scheme is generated and validated through experimental verification. Simulation analysis and experimental results show that using a larger gate neck (24 mm in side length) and external risers promotes a more uniform temperature distribution and a more stable flow state, effectively eliminating shrinkage cavities and enhancing process yield by 15%.

### [Micro-alloying for improving corrosion resistance of as-cast alloy CoCrNi in 3.5wt.% NaCl solution by Ce addition](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/micro-alloying-for-improving-corrosion-resistance-of-as-cast-alloy-cocrni-in-35wt-nacl-solution-by-ce-addition) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-4218-2]
Enhancing corrosion resistance in cast alloys using straightforward and cost-effective micro-alloying techniques has emerged as a key area of investigation in materials science. The challenge lies in applying this technique to further enhance the already excellent properties of CoCrNi medium-entropy alloys (MEAs) for casting applications. A micro-alloying approach was proposed to improve the corrosion resistance of as-cast CoCrNi MEAs by incorporating cerium (Ce). The corrosion resistance of CoCrNi MEAs firstly increases and then decreases as the Ce content increases in a 3.5wt.% NaCl solution. At a Ce content of 0.02at.%, the passivation current density reaches its minimum value (26.383 μA·cm-2), while the breakdown potential reaches its maximum (0.471 VSCE), imparting exceptional corrosion resistance. The results indicate that the enhanced corrosion resistance is primary due to Ce micro-alloying, which affects inclusions by forming a non-conductive precipitated phase and modifying the passivation film. Ce micro-alloying presents a promising strategy for enhancing the corrosion resistance of as-cast CoCrNi MEAs.

### [Microstructure and tribological properties of Y2O3-doped Fe-based alloy coatings by laser cladding](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/microstructure-and-tribological-properties-of-y2o3-doped-fe-based-alloy-coatings-by-laser-cladding) [DOI: 10.1007/s41230-026-5062-0]
The laser-clad Fe45 alloy coating inherently comprises multiple crystalline phases, resulting in a heterogeneous microstructural distribution that influences its performance. In this study, the rare earth yttria (Y2O3) was employed to modify laser-clad Fe45 alloy coatings, and the effects of Y2O3 addition on their microstructure, microhardness, and tribological properties were investigated. As the Y2O3 content increases from 0% to 0.3wt.%, the dominant microstructure transforms from columnar crystals to fine cellular and equiaxed crystals. The modified coating with 0.3wt.% Y2O3 achieves a surface hardness of 568 HV0.3 and a wear volume of 1,735.41 μm3, representing a 14.06% increase in hardness and a 51.16% reduction in wear volume compared to the undoped coating. Further increasing the Y2O3 content from 0.3wt.% to 0.9wt.% gradually leads to the emergence of a coarser feather-like microstructure, characterized by a dendritic framework with inter-dendritic equiaxed crystals. Concurrently, both the hardness and wear resistance of the coating decrease. Nevertheless, all Y2O3-modified coatings surpass the undoped Fe45 coating in both hardness and wear resistance. Appropriate Y2O3 doping effectively refines the Fe45 alloy coating’s microstructure and induces lattice distortion, thereby enhancing its hardness and wear resistance.

### [Direct Repair of the Crystal Structure and Coating Surface of Spent LiFePO4 Materials Enables Superfast Li-Ion Migration](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/direct-repair-of-the-crystal-structure-and-coating-surface-of-spent-lifepo4-materials-enables-superfast-li-ion-migration) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01980-1]
The rapid accumulation of spent LiFePO4 (LFP) cathodes from retired lithium-ion batteries necessitates the development of effective and environmental-friendly recycling strategies. In this context, direct regeneration has emerged as a promising approach for reclaiming LFP cathode materials, offering a streamlined pathway to restore their electrochemical functionality. We report an integrated regeneration protocol that simultaneously repairs the degraded crystal structure and reconstructs the damaged carbon coating in spent LFP. The regenerated cathode material had superfast lithium-ion diffusion kinetics and a stable cathode–electrolyte interface, giving a remarkable rate capability with specific capacities of 122 mAh g−1 at 5C and 106 mAh g−1 at 10C (1C = 170 mA g−1). It also maintained capacities of 110.7 mAh g−1 (5C) and 84.1 mAh g−1 (10C) after 400 cycles. It could be used in harsh environments and could be stably cycled at subzero temperatures (−10 and −20 °C) and in solid-state electrolyte batteries. Life cycle assessment combined with economic evaluation using the EverBatt model reveals that this direct regeneration approach has high economic and environmental benefits.

### [Oxide Semiconductor for Advanced Memory Architectures: Atomic Layer Deposition, Key Requirement and Challenges](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/oxide-semiconductor-for-advanced-memory-architectures-atomic-layer-deposition-key-requirement-and-challenges) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-02013-7]
Oxide semiconductors (OSs), introduced by the Hosono group in the early 2000s, have evolved from display backplane materials to promising candidates for advanced memory and logic devices. The exceptionally low leakage current of OSs and compatibility with three-dimensional (3D) architectures have recently sparked renewed interest in their use in semiconductor applications. This review begins by exploring the unique material properties of OSs, which fundamentally originate from their distinct electronic band structure. Subsequently, we focus on atomic layer deposition (ALD), a core technique for growing excellent OS films, covering both basic and advanced processes compatible with 3D scaling. The basic surface reaction mechanisms—adsorption and reaction—and their roles in film growth are introduced. Furthermore, material design strategies, such as cation selection, crystallinity control, anion doping, and heterostructure engineering, are discussed. We also highlight challenges in memory applications, including contact resistance, hydrogen instability, and lack of p-type materials, and discuss the feasibility of ALD-grown OSs as potential solutions. Lastly, we provide an outlook on the role of ALD-grown OSs in memory technologies. This review bridges material fundamentals and device-level requirements, offering a comprehensive perspective on the potential of ALD-driven OSs for next-generation semiconductor memory devices.

### [Laser powder bed fusion of biodegradable Zn-4Cu alloy: Processing, microstructure and properties](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/laser-powder-bed-fusion-of-biodegradable-zn-4cu-alloy-processing-microstructure-and-properties) [DOI: 10.1007/s11771-026-6173-x]
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.

### [Pressure-driven Mn solubility enhancement in Zn alloy: Synergistic strengthening and reduced corrosion rate for biomedical application](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/pressure-driven-mn-solubility-enhancement-in-zn-alloy-synergistic-strengthening-and-reduced-corrosion-rate-for-biomedical-application) [DOI: 10.1007/s11771-026-6161-1]
Zn-Mn alloys are regarded as promising biodegradable metals for orthopedic applications owing to their moderate degradation rates and favorable osteogenic properties. However, the presence of a substantial number of second-phase particles in Zn-based alloys might induce severe localized degradation via micro-coupling corrosion, thereby compromising the mechanical integrity of the alloy during in vivo tissue regeneration. In this study, high-pressure solid solution (HPSS) treatment was conducted at 5 GPa and 380 ℃ for 1 h to fabricate Zn-0.5Mn alloys. Microstructural characterization revealed that the HPSS treatment facilitated the formation of a supersaturated solid solution by completely dissolving the ζ-MnZn13 phase into the α-Zn matrix. The resultant strengthening mechanisms, including supersaturated solid solution strengthening, grain-size strengthening, and dislocation strengthening, collectively enhanced the compressive yield strength (σcys) of the Zn-0.5Mn alloy to about 183.7 MPa, approximately three times that of the as-cast (AC) Zn-0.5Mn alloy. Moreover, compared with the AC alloy, the HPSS Zn-0.5Mn alloy exhibited uniform degradation behavior with a markedly reduced degradation rate.

### [Multiscale Design of Dual-Gradient Metamaterials Using Gel-Mediated 3D-Printed Graphene Aerogels for Broadband Electromagnetic Absorption](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/multiscale-design-of-dual-gradient-metamaterials-using-gel-mediated-3d-printed-graphene-aerogels-for-broadband-electromagnetic-absorption) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-02005-7]
Three-dimensional (3D)-printed graphene aerogels hold promise for electromagnetic wave absorption (EWA) engineering due to its ultralow density, outstanding electromagnetic dissipation with the flexibility and precision of manufacturing strategies. However, their high conductivity causes severe impedance mismatch, limiting EWA performance. 3D printing requirements also constrain the dielectric properties of printable graphene inks, hindering the integration of high-performance absorbers with advanced manufacturing. This study proposes a polyacrylic acid (PAA) gel-mediated 3D porous graphene oxide (GO) aerogel multiscale regulation strategy. Precise gel content control enables dual-gradient tuning of the rheology (Benefiting direct ink writing (DIW)) and dielectric loss (Enhancing EWA) of GO/PAA composites and reduces aerogel density (6.9 mg cm−3 from 28.2 mg cm−3). Thermal reduction decomposes PAA into amorphous carbon nanoparticles anchored on reduced graphene oxide (rGO), enhancing impedance matching and absorption via synergistic 0D/2D interfacial polarization and conductive loss. The optimized rGO/PAA aerogel achieves a minimum reflection loss (RL) of −39.86 dB at 2.5 mm and an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 8.36 GHz (9.64–18 GHz) at 3.2 mm. Combining DIW and this aerogel, we design a metamaterial absorber (MA) with dual material (dielectric loss) and structural gradients. This MA exhibits an ultrawide EAB of 14 GHz (4–18 GHz) with a total thickness of 7.8 mm. This work establishes a coupled design paradigm of “composition-structure-performance,” providing an engineerable solution for developing lightweight, broadband EWA materials.

### [Atomically Dispersed Pt-Ru Dual-Atom Catalysts for Efficient Low-Temperature CO Oxidation Reaction](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/atomically-dispersed-pt-ru-dual-atom-catalysts-for-efficient-low-temperature-co-oxidation-reaction) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01997-6]
Single-atom catalysts (SACs) have demonstrated excellent performance in heterogeneous catalytic reactions owing to their maximized atomic efficiency, distinctive geometric, and electronic configurations. However, the efficacy of SACs remains limited for certain reactions requiring simultaneous activation of multiple reactants over metallic active sites. Herein, we report an atomically dispersed Pt1Ru1 dual-atom pair site anchored on nanodiamond@graphene (ND@G) for CO oxidation. The Pt1Ru1 dual-atom catalyst shows an exceptional turnover frequency (TOF) of 17.6 × 10−2 s−1 at significantly lower temperature (30 °C), achieving a tenfold increase in TOF compared to single-atom Pt1/ND@G catalyst (1.5 × 10−2 s−1) and surpassing to previously reported Pt-based catalysts under similar conditions. Moreover, the catalyst demonstrates excellent stability, maintaining its activity for 40 h at 80 °C without significant deactivation. The superior catalytic performance of Pt-Ru dual-atom catalysts is attributed to the synergistic effect between Pt and Ru atoms with enhanced metallicity for improving simultaneous adsorption and activation of CO and O2, and the tuning of conventional competitive reactant adsorption into a non-competitive pathway over dual-atom pair sites. The present work manifests the advantages of dual-atom pair sites in heterogeneous catalysis and paves the way for precise design of catalysts at the atomic scale.

### [Synergistic Design of Flexible Nanopapers for High-Performance Proton Pseudocapacitors](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/synergistic-design-of-flexible-nanopapers-for-high-performance-proton-pseudocapacitors) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01989-6]
Two-dimensional materials for flexible energy storage commonly face huge challenges in limited active surface and hindered charge transport. Herein, we report an innovative asymmetric pseudocapacitor based on synergistic design of modified MXene and graphene, integrating gas-induced rapid expansion technology and precise surface chemical regulation methods. For graphene modification, rapid vaporization induces exfoliation and expansion of graphene oxide layers. Subsequently, pseudocapacitive oxygen-containing groups were selectively introduced through acid oxidation, yielding expanded-and-oxidized graphene (OEG) for positive porous-nanopaper electrode. For MXene modification, alkali-treated MXene underwent hydrazine assistance to facilitate gas expansion and –NH2 grafting, producing MXene-NH2 (NOM) for negative porous-nanopaper electrode. Density functional theory calculations show that –COOH more effectively modulate graphene’s electronic structure by inducing charge redistribution and creating active sites, thereby enhancing H+ adsorption and ion interactions compared to –OH. Meanwhile, –NH2 on MXene enable electron delocalization and dynamic Ti–N–H+ interactions, speeding up proton adsorption/desorption and boosting both pseudocapacitance and conductivity. Through collaborative optimized spatial architecture and surface properties, flexible OEGB and NOMB exhibited of 333.6 and 500.5 F g−1 at high mass loading, respectively. The assembled proton pseudocapacitor readily achieved energy and power densities of 58.9 Wh kg−1 and 3802 W kg−1, respectively, with excellent stability for potential applications.

### [Modulation of Trichromatic Emission Centers in Organic–Inorganic Hybrids for Optoelectronic Applications](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/modulation-of-trichromatic-emission-centers-in-organicinorganic-hybrids-for-optoelectronic-applications) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01965-0]
Organic–inorganic metal halides (OIMHs) have emerged as highly promising novel multifunctional optoelectronic materials, owing to their easily adjustable properties from a variety of combinations of different components. But it is still difficult and rare to realize highly tunable multicolor luminescence within the same material. In this work, we successfully incorporated three adjustable emission centers in OIMHs to synthesize a novel OIMH (NEA)2MnBr4, with each emission center capable of emitting one of the primary colors—red, green, and blue. The green and red emissions originate from the tetrahedron and octahedron structures in the Mn-based frame, while the blue can be attributed to the contribution of organic components. Additionally, to achieve comparable emission intensity among the three primary colors, we enhanced the blue emission performance by optimizing the ratio of organic structure components and incorporating chirality in the OIMHs. The resulting high-quality films can be obtained by spin-coating method with a photoluminescence quantum yields of up to 96%. More interestingly, by the dual manipulation of excitation wavelength and temperature, the sample can be emitted at least seven distinct colors including a standard white luminescence at (0.33, 0.33), opening up promising prospects for multicolor luminescence applications such as high-end anti-counterfeiting technology, light-emitting diodes, X-ray imaging, latent fingerprints, humidity detection, and so on. Therefore, based on application scenarios and requirements, our research on this highly tunable luminescent OIMH material lays a solid foundation for further development of various functional properties of related materials.

### [Scalable-Designed Photonic Metamaterial for Color-Regulating Passive Daytime Radiative Cooling](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/scalable-designed-photonic-metamaterial-for-color-regulating-passive-daytime-radiative-cooling) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01975-y]
Methods allowing passive daytime radiative cooling (PDRC) to be carried out in an energy-efficient and scalable way are potentially important for various disciplines. Here, we report a sustainable strategy for scalable-designed and color-regulating PDRC coating based on high-crystallinity photonic metamaterial (crystallinity: 71.5%; enhanced assembly efficiency: 72%), that is derived from the as-prepared 55 wt% solid content poly(methyl methacrylate-butyl acrylate-methacrylic acid) P(MMA-BA-MAA) monodispersed latexes (approaching theoretical limit: 59 wt%). Robust meter-scale PDRC coatings are constructed by various industrial modes onto diverse surfaces, addressing bottlenecks like dull appearance, high cost, low efficiency, and hard construction. Notably, the solar reflectance, long-wave infrared emittance, and calculated theoretical cooling power of the designed PDRC coating, respectively, reach ~0.94, ~0.97, and ~95.5 W m−2 under solar radiation, which can achieve an average 5.3 °C sub-ambient daytime temperature drop in the summer in Nanjing. The cooling performance, scale preparation, and cost-effectiveness of the PDRC coating have extended into leading position compared with those of state-of-the-art designs. This work provides promising route to reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption for global sustainability.

### [Ion-Mediated Carbon Microdomain Engineering Boosting Enhanced Plateau Capacity of Carbon Anode under High Rate Towards High-Performance Sodium Dual-Ion Batteries](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/ion-mediated-carbon-microdomain-engineering-boosting-enhanced-plateau-capacity-of-carbon-anode-under-high-rate-towards-high-performance-sodium-dual-ion-batteries) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-02008-4]
Sodium-based dual-ion batteries (SDIBs) have been attracting increasing attention in recent years owing to their low cost, environmental benignancy, and high operating voltage. However, the sluggish ion kinetics of conventional carbon anodes that cannot match the fast capacitive anion intercalation behavior of graphite cathodes constraints on improving power density of SDIBs. Herein, we present an ingenious carbon microdomain engineering strategy to fabricate high-performance carbon anode with ion-mediated high-activity nitrogen species and molecular-scale closed-pore architectures. Experimental characterizations and theoretical investigations demonstrate that Zn2+-mediated structural engineering tailors oxidized nitrogen species, which proficiently accelerate the sodium-ion desolvation kinetics; meanwhile the acetate-mediated pore-forming process modulates closed pores, which synergistically afford abundant sodium storage sites for high plateau-region capacity. As a result, the optimized microdomain engineered carbon material (MEC3) tailored with the optimal amount of zinc acetate demonstrates an outstanding plateau-region capacity of 253 mAh g−1 even at 1 C, among the highest reported values. Consequently, the MEC3||expanded graphite dual-ion battery exhibits an unprecedented cycling stability at high current rate, maintaining 80.6% capacity retention after 10,000 cycles at 10 C, among the best reports. This microdomain engineering strategy provides a new design principle for overcoming kinetic limitations of carbonaceous materials in plateau-dominated sodium storage systems.

### [A Promising Strategy for Solvent-Regulated Selective Hydrogenation of 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural over Porous Carbon-Supported Ni-ZnO Nanoparticles](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/a-promising-strategy-for-solvent-regulated-selective-hydrogenation-of-5-hydroxymethylfurfural-over-porous-carbon-supported-ni-zno-nanoparticles) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01847-5]
Developing biomass platform compounds into high value-added chemicals is a key step in renewable resource utilization. Herein, we report porous carbon-supported Ni-ZnO nanoparticles catalyst (Ni-ZnO/AC) synthesized via low-temperature coprecipitation, exhibiting excellent performance for the selective hydrogenation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF). A linear correlation is first observed between solvent polarity (ET(30)) and product selectivity within both polar aprotic and protic solvent classes, suggesting that solvent properties play a vital role in directing reaction pathways. Among these, 1,4-dioxane (aprotic) favors the formation of 2,5-bis(hydroxymethyl)furan (BHMF) with 97.5% selectivity, while isopropanol (iPrOH, protic) promotes 2,5-dimethylfuran production with up to 99.5% selectivity. Mechanistic investigations further reveal that beyond polarity, proton-donating ability is critical in facilitating hydrodeoxygenation. iPrOH enables a hydrogen shuttle mechanism where protons assist in hydroxyl group removal, lowering the activation barrier. In contrast, 1,4-dioxane, lacking hydrogen bond donors, stabilizes BHMF and hinders further conversion. Density functional theory calculations confirm a lower activation energy in iPrOH (0.60 eV) compared to 1,4-dioxane (1.07 eV). This work offers mechanistic insights and a practical strategy for solvent-mediated control of product selectivity in biomass hydrogenation, highlighting the decisive role of solvent-catalyst-substrate interactions.

### [Prioritized Na+ Adsorption-Driven Cationic Electrostatic Repulsion Enables Highly Reversible Zinc Anodes at Low Temperatures](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/prioritized-na-adsorption-driven-cationic-electrostatic-repulsion-enables-highly-reversible-zinc-anodes-at-low-temperatures) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01889-9]
Aqueous zinc metal batteries (AZMBs) are promising candidates for renewable energy storage, yet their practical deployment in subzero environments remains challenging due to electrolyte freezing and dendritic growth. Although organic additives can enhance the antifreeze properties of electrolytes, their weak polarity diminishes ionic conductivity, and their flammability poses safety concerns, undermining the inherent advantages of aqueous systems. Herein, we present a cost-effective and highly stable Na2SO4 additive introduced into a Zn(ClO4)2-based electrolyte to create an organic-free antifreeze electrolyte. Through Raman spectroscopy, in situ optical microscopy, density functional theory computations, and molecular dynamics simulations, we demonstrate that Na+ ions improve low-temperature electrolyte performance and mitigate dendrite formation by regulating uniform Zn2+ deposition through preferential adsorption and electrostatic interactions. As a result, the Zn||Zn cells using this electrolyte achieve a remarkable cycling life of 360 h at −40 °C with 61% depth of discharge, and the Zn||PANI cells retained an ultrahigh capacity retention of 91% even after 8000 charge/discharge cycles at −40 °C. This work proposes a cost-effective and practical approach for enhancing the long-term operational stability of AZMBs in low-temperature environments.

### [Nanoreactor-Structured Defective MoS2: Suppressing Intercalation-Induced Phase Transitions and Enhancing Reversibility for Potassium-Ion Batteries](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/nanoreactor-structured-defective-mos2-suppressing-intercalation-induced-phase-transitions-and-enhancing-reversibility-for-potassium-ion-batteries) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01992-x]
Conversion-type electrode materials hold significant promise for potassium-ion batteries (PIBs) due to their high theoretical capacities, yet their practical deployment is hindered by sluggish kinetics and irreversible structural degradation. To overcome these limitations, we propose a rationally engineered nanoreactor architecture that stabilizes defect-rich MoS2 via interlayer incorporation of a carbon monolayer, followed by encapsulation within a nitrogen-doped carbon shell, forming a MoSSe@NC heterostructure. This tailored structure synergistically accelerates both K+ diffusion kinetics and electron transfer, enabling unprecedented rate performance (107 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1) and ultralong cyclability (86.5% capacity retention after 1200 cycles at 3 A g−1). Mechanistic insights reveal a distinctive “adsorption-conversion” pathway, where sulfur vacancies on exposed S–Mo–S basal planes act as preferential K+ adsorption sites, effectively suppressing parasitic phase transitions during intercalation. In situ X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy corroborate the structural reversibility of the conversion reaction, with the carbon matrix dynamically accommodating strain while preserving electrode integrity. This work not only advances the understanding of defect-driven interfacial chemistry in conversion-type materials but also provides a versatile strategy for designing high-performance anodes in next-generation PIBs through heterostructure engineering.

### [Thermally Drawn Flexible Fiber Sensors: Principles, Materials, Structures, and Applications](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/thermally-drawn-flexible-fiber-sensors-principles-materials-structures-and-applications) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01840-y]
Flexible fiber sensors, with their excellent wearability and biocompatibility, are essential components of flexible electronics. However, traditional methods face challenges in fabricating low-cost, large-scale fiber sensors. In recent years, the thermal drawing process has rapidly advanced, offering a novel approach to flexible fiber sensors. Through the preform-to-fiber manufacturing technique, a variety of fiber sensors with complex functionalities spanning from the nanoscale to kilometer scale can be automated in a short time. Examples include temperature, acoustic, mechanical, chemical, biological, optoelectronic, and multifunctional sensors, which operate on diverse sensing principles such as resistance, capacitance, piezoelectricity, triboelectricity, photoelectricity, and thermoelectricity. This review outlines the principles of the thermal drawing process and provides a detailed overview of the latest advancements in various thermally drawn fiber sensors. Finally, the future developments of thermally drawn fiber sensors are discussed.

### [Tackling Challenges and Exploring Opportunities in Cathode Binder Innovation](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/tackling-challenges-and-exploring-opportunities-in-cathode-binder-innovation) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01848-4]
Long-life energy storage batteries are integral to energy storage systems and electric vehicles, with lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) currently being the preferred option for extended usage-life energy storage. To further extend the life span of LIBs, it is essential to intensify investments in battery design, manufacturing processes, and the advancement of ancillary materials. The pursuit of long durability introduces new challenges for battery energy density. The advent of electrode material offers effective support in enhancing the battery’s long-duration performance. Often underestimated as part of the cathode composition, the binder plays a pivotal role in the longevity and electrochemical performance of the electrode. Maintaining the mechanical integrity of the electrode through judicious binder design is a fundamental requirement for achieving consistent long-life cycles and high energy density. This paper primarily concentrates on the commonly employed cathode systems in lithium-ion batteries, elucidates the significance of binders for both, discusses the application status, strengths, and weaknesses of novel binders, and ultimately puts forth corresponding optimization strategies. It underscores the critical function of binders in enhancing battery performance and advancing the sustainable development of lithium-ion batteries, aiming to offer fresh insights and perspectives for the design of high-performance LIBs.

### [A unified analytical model for track deformation mapping and vehicle-track dynamic response induced by substructure deformation](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/a-unified-analytical-model-for-track-deformation-mapping-and-vehicle-track-dynamic-response-induced-by-substructure-deformation) [DOI: 10.1007/s11771-026-6289-z]
This study establishes a nonlinear vehicle-track coupled dynamic model that explicitly accounts for the effects of substructure deformation. Based on the vehicle-track coupled dynamics framework, the track structure is modeled using an energy-based approach, in which displacement functions of track layers are expanded into modified Fourier series. The static rail geometry and interlayer contact relations are derived through the principle of stationary potential energy. Considering the dynamic excitation from moving trains, a cross-iterative algorithm is employed to obtain the system responses, thereby enabling unified analysis of static track deformation and dynamic vehicle–track interactions. The results demonstrate that the proposed model effectively reveals the coupling mechanism between substructure deformation parameters, rail surface geometry, and system dynamics. The critical conditions for avoiding void formation under cosine-type and angular-type subgrade settlements follow power-law and linear relations, respectively. For a cosine-type settlement with a wavelength of 15 m and amplitude exceeding 35 mm, vehicle ride quality deteriorates significantly. Moreover, interlayer separation induced by substructure deformation leads to repeated "contact-separation-recontact" impacts, which may degrade long-term structural performance. This study provides a unified theoretical and computational framework for quantitatively assessing the effects of substructure deformation on high-speed train safety and track structure durability.

### [Mechanism and application of a new method for roof cutting and pressure relief with dense drilling](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/mechanism-and-application-of-a-new-method-for-roof-cutting-and-pressure-relief-with-dense-drilling) [DOI: 10.1007/s11771-026-6168-7]
With the continual deterioration of mining conditions, the deformation and failure of surrounding rock in roadways with weak roofs under intense mine pressure during close-distance coal seam extraction has become a critical issue restricting the safe and efficient mining of coal. To address the issue of increased surrounding rock damage caused by blasting pressure relief in such roadways, this study proposes an innovative non-explosive method for roof cutting and pressure relief with dense drilling (RCPRDD) to protect the roadway. A combined approach of laboratory experiments, theoretical analysis, numerical simulation, and field testing was employed to clarify the rock weakening effects and mechanisms induced by dense drilling. An optimal design method for drilling diameter and spacing was established, and the effectiveness of this method was validated. The research results indicate that the degree of rock weakening induced by dense drilling is primarily related to the drilling density coefficient. As the drilling density coefficient increases, the rock weakening effect becomes more pronounced. At the same time, dense drilling exerts a significant amplifying effect on the tensile stress experienced by the side roof of the roadway goaf. A functional relationship between the dense drilling weakening coefficient and the drilling density coefficient was established, providing a theoretical basis for the selection of key parameters for dense drilling. The method was ultimately implemented in a field engineering test, effectively reducing the stress in the coal body of the advanced roadway, controlling the deformation and failure of the surrounding rock, and achieving the goal of protecting the roadway. This demonstrated the feasibility and effectiveness of the RCPRDD. The research findings provide a scientific basis for controlling roadway deformation under similar conditions.

### [Numerical simulation of wheel-rail rolling contact fatigue considering yaw angle and interfacial conditions](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/numerical-simulation-of-wheel-rail-rolling-contact-fatigue-considering-yaw-angle-and-interfacial-conditions) [DOI: 10.1007/s11771-026-6210-9]
The accuracy of wheel-rail rolling contact force is of great significance for vehicle dynamics simulation. A wheel-rail rolling contact behavior model considering wheelset yaw is proposed. The NORM algorithm is adopted to solve the wheel-rail normal contact problem. The extended creep force model (ECF) is used for the tangential contact problem, which considers different interfacial conditions, temperature in the contact area, and the elastoplastic behavior of the third body. A fatigue life prediction framework based on the critical plane method is introduced to evaluate the contact fatigue damage under the coupled influence of yaw angle and interfacial conditions. The effects of wheel yaw angle on the contact pressure and wheel-rail rolling contact fatigue life under dry and wet conditions are investigated. The results show that under both dry and wet conditions, increasing yaw angle leads to an increase in creepage, expansion of the sliding area, enhancement of creep force, and a simultaneous increase in the contact area temperature, thereby causing an increase in the fatigue parameter (FP). The wheel-rail rolling contact life with yaw angle is shortened compared to that without yaw, and the life decay rate under wet condition is slower than that under dry condition.

### [Chemistry and potential applications of multifunctional polymer nanocomposite coatings: A review](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/chemistry-and-potential-applications-of-multifunctional-polymer-nanocomposite-coatings-a-review) [DOI: 10.1007/s11771-025-6102-4]
Polymer nanocomposite coatings (PNCCs) are unprecedented generation of coatings engineered for displaying inexpensive and brilliant functional surface coatings with eminent corrosion guard, mechanical resistance, antimicrobial, chemical durability, electrical insulation, and UV aging features. Due to their widely anticipation in petroleum, applications in building, conveyance, aerospace, electronics, automobiles and energy, these multi-functional coatings have a tremendous leverage in human life, all technological and scientific subjects. Numerous applications have been made for multilateral polymers like polyurethane (PU), epoxy (EP), polyaniline (PANI) conductive polymer, polypyrrole (PPy), and etc, on various metallic surfaces especially, carbon steel substrate owing to their excellent resistance properties. Practically, nanomaterials can possess potential in the all-interdisciplinary domains of materials science and engineering, chemical and physical sciences, biological and health sciences. As known, the designed polymer nanocomposite coating paradigm is fundamentally constituted from polymer or resin as a vehicle and inorganic nanofillers (nanoparticles and nanocomposites). Some commercialized and excessively employed nanocontainers in polymer nanocomposite coating formulations, like ZnO, TiO2, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), clay, SiO2, Al2O3, graphene, GO, CeO2, ZrO2, FeTiO3, etc were discussed. The current review covered the chemistry and potential applications of the largest utilized multifunctional polymer nanocomposite coatings such as EP, PU and other considerable PNCCs. Lately, a titanic attention was made for epoxy nanocomposites because of their distinct physicochemical characteristics, which result from the combined qualities of the nanoparticles and polymer material unity. In addition, the author incorporated some of his scientific contributions in this area represented in construction of innovative functional polymer nanocomposites for a variety of uses with high economic, industrial impacts and future orientation. Furthermore, some newly published applications of polymer nanocomposite coatings were incorporated and discussed.

### [Microstructure and the corrosion resistance of SiC reinforced pyrolytic graphite coating under physical vapor transport SiC environment](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/microstructure-and-the-corrosion-resistance-of-sic-reinforced-pyrolytic-graphite-coating-under-physical-vapor-transport-sic-environment) [DOI: 10.1007/s11771-026-6166-9]
In order to effectively prevent the contamination of carbon particle volatiles during high-purity SiC crystals are prepared using the physical vapor transport (PVT) method in ultra-high temperature environments (T≥2000 ℃), this study innovatively attempts to protect graphite materials with SiC reinforced pyrolytic graphite (PyG) coating. It is discovered by preparing the SiC particle layer, the degree of graphitization and stability of PyG coating can be improved. The corrosion test results demonstrated that the SiC reinforced PyG coating can maintain an intact coating with a high graphitization degree after the SiC vapour corrosion test of 2050 ℃-120 h. Conversely, the samples with and without PyG coating reveal porous and eroded surfaces. Furthermore, following the SiC vapour corrosion test, the PyG coating sample’s integral ratio of D-band and G-band (ID/IG) of Raman spectrum test data, reduced by 6.5%, while the SiC reinforced PyG coating decreased by 17.2%, indicating its excellent corrosion resistance. The application of SiC reinforced pyrolytic graphite coating in preparing the SiC single crystal might received a theoretical foundation according to this work.

### [Transformation of strain energy increment in catastrophe model and its application to stability analysis of host rock in nuclear waste disposal caverns](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/transformation-of-strain-energy-increment-in-catastrophe-model-and-its-application-to-stability-analysis-of-host-rock-in-nuclear-waste-disposal-caverns) [DOI: 10.1007/s11771-026-6266-6]
To reduce the subjectivity of conventional instability criteria in deep rock engineering, this study develops an energy-driven criterion grounded in cusp catastrophe theory and embeds it within an improved nonlinear Hoek-Brown (H-B) strength-reduction framework. We derive an explicit algebraic transformation that maps a quartic energy potential to the standard cusp form and introduce the mutation eigenvalue Δ as a physically interpretable measure of proximity to the vanishing of the energy barrier. Building on this, failure staging is diagnosed in practice by the concurrence of a slope mutation in displacement-reduction-factor curves, a threshold jump of total plastic strain-energy increment typically exceeding threefold between adjacent reduction steps, and video-confirmed crack through-connection. Integrating Δ with the nonlinear reduction scheme yields reproducible integral safety factors. Two representative cavern layouts (Model A/B) are validated by scaled physical model tests and companion simulations: global failure occurs at the overload safety factor K=2.33 for Model A and K=2.73 for Model B, with relative deviations from tests (2.4P0 and 2.9P0) of 1.3% and −5.9%, respectively, coinciding with the energy-jump threshold and the multi-evidence diagnosis. Compared with the equivalent Mohr-Coulomb parameter approach, the improved nonlinear scheme produces smaller (more conservative) safety factors by 5.7% and 2.5%, while better matching the observed destabilization process. The framework clarifies the role of Δ as an energy-based instability indicator and offers a practical, verifiable criterion for cavern stability assessment.

### [The influence of microwave irradiation on thermal properties and fracturing mechanism of basalt in rock excavation](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/the-influence-of-microwave-irradiation-on-thermal-properties-and-fracturing-mechanism-of-basalt-in-rock-excavation) [DOI: 10.1007/s11771-026-6162-0]
Microwave fracturing is a promising technique for facilitating the efficient exploitation of deep earth resources while reducing energy consumption and cutter wear during mechanical excavation. In this study, the thermal properties of basalt under six power levels are investigated and the mechanism of microwave fracturing is elucidated through real-time monitoring and microstructural analysis. The results show that the failure modes of basalt can be categorized into high-temperature melting failure (>300 ℃) and low-temperature burst failure (<200 ℃). High-power microwave irradiation not only altered the failure mode but also modified the relationship between temperature rise and time. The temperature distribution exhibits a wave pattern, making it more prone to inducing transverse tensile cracks. Dehydration of basalt is triggered when the temperature exceeds 200 ℃, which subsequently promotes the initiation of macroscopic cracks. Microscopically, microwave fracturing is mainly driven by thermal stresses, while steam pressure, especially under high-power conditions, plays a dominant role in the fracturing process. These results are anticipated to provide necessary theoretical and technical support for the efficient exploitation of deep earth resources.

### [A dual-component strategy for ambiently-cured high-toughness red mud-based geopolymer: Modified nano-TiO2 and sodium polyacrylate](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/a-dual-component-strategy-for-ambiently-cured-high-toughness-red-mud-based-geopolymer-modified-nano-tio2-and-sodium-polyacrylate) [DOI: 10.1007/s11771-026-6257-7]
In response to the growing demand for sustainable construction materials, this study overcomes the inherent brittleness and poor fracture resistance of red mud-based geopolymer (RBG) through the strategic combination of surface-modified nano-TiO2 (NT) and sodium polyacrylate (SPA). The NT was functionalized with silane coupling agent to improve dispersibility and interfacial bonding, while SPA was added to enhance fracture toughness. Under the condition of ambient curing, the optimum mixture containing 3 wt% (glycidoxypropyltriethoxysilane) -modified NT (GNT) and 0.5 wt% SPA achieved a 28 d compressive strength of 43.40 MPa and a flexural strength of 8.16 MPa. The performance index meets the Portland cement (PC 42.5) standards. Microstructural analyses (XRD, FT-IR and SEM-EDS) revealed that the formation of geopolymer gel was increased, the crystallinity was reduced, and the degree of polymerization was improved, which confirmed the effectiveness of this method in producing high-toughness and environmentally friendly geopolymer.

### [An acid-free process for the selective recovery of lithium from spent ternary lithium-ion batteries](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/an-acid-free-process-for-the-selective-recovery-of-lithium-from-spent-ternary-lithium-ion-batteries) [DOI: 10.1007/s11771-026-6187-4]
With the dramatic accumulation of the end-of-life lithium-ion batteries, their recycling is attracting extensive attention worldwide. To address the problem of low lithium recovery in the current typical hydrometallurgy recovery process, this research uses sodium bisulfate as an auxiliary roasting reagent to extract lithium from spent lithium-ion batteries through sulphation roasting, which can enhance the lithium recovery rate significantly. A systematic study of the sulphation roasting process and the mechanisms was carried out with experiments, thermodynamic calculations, and characterization of the roasted sample phases. The results showed that at a roasting temperature of 600 °C, NaHSO4·H2O/spent LiNixCoyMnzO2 cathode powders (S-NCM) mass ratio of 1.2, and roasting time of 60 min, 95% selective dissolution of lithium was acquired, while the leaching rates of Ni, Co, and Mn were confined under 1%. During roasting, the NCM layered structure collapses and the lithium is transformed into the LiNaSO4 phase, while the transition metals transform into Ni6MnO8 and MnCo2O4 phases. The removal of impurity ions from the lithium-rich leaching solution and the generation of Li2CO3 were achieved by a combination of thermodynamic calculations and experiments.

### [Effects of deep cryogenic treatment on microstructures, mechanical properties and dimensional stability of beryllium for inertial devices](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/effects-of-deep-cryogenic-treatment-on-microstructures-mechanical-properties-and-dimensional-stability-of-beryllium-for-inertial-devices) [DOI: 10.1007/s11771-026-6204-7]
This study investigated the effects of deep cryogenic treatment (DCT) on hot isostatic pressed (HIP) beryllium for inertial devices, focusing on residual stress, microstructure, tensile properties, and dimensional stability. The findings revealed that during DCT, residual stress in beryllium increased gradually due to non-uniform volumetric contraction and mismatch stress, reaching a 59.9% increase from initial levels after 200 h of DCT. DCT led to significant grain refinement and an increase in dislocation density. In 200 h DCT-treated beryllium, geometric necessary dislocation (GND) density increased 17.9%, grain size decreased 12.3%, and therefore yield strength and tensile strength improved by 4.2% and 5.6%, respectively. The dimensional stability of HIP beryllium was significantly enhanced by DCT, and the improvement tended to increase with the duration of DCT. The cumulative size changes of beryllium after 200 h of DCT during both cold exposure and cold cycling decreased significantly by 86% and 50%, respectively, compared to those of HIP beryllium. Furthermore, the residual tensile strength and retention rate increased by 12.5% and 5.5%, respectively, after undergoing room-temperature creep at 100 MPa for 1000 h.

### [Effect of loading rate on the brittleness index of granite: An experimental investigation](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/effect-of-loading-rate-on-the-brittleness-index-of-granite-an-experimental-investigation) [DOI: 10.1007/s11771-026-6238-x]
In deep underground engineering, rock brittleness is closely associated with rockburst and feasibility of hydraulic fracturing. The loading rate plays a crucial role in determining the severity of rockburst and cuttability. By conducting uniaxial compression tests and single-cycle loading-unloading experiments, the brittle evolution of four types of granite under different loading rates was investigated. During the uniaxial compression process, acoustic emission parameters were used to characterize the crack evolution patterns. Additionally, the macroscopic failure process of the specimens and the post-failure rock fragments were recorded with a high-speed camera, providing multi-scale validation. This study proposes a quantitative brittleness index based on rock fracture energy, and its validity is verified by analyzing the rock failure process and the macroscopic characteristics of rock fragments. This work contributes to advancing research on rock brittleness indices considering the coupling between energy evolution and kinematic mechanisms. The research results indicate that as the loading rate increases from 0.1 mm/min to 5 mm/min, the quantitative evaluation index (Bs) for brittleness increases from 0.17 to 0.28, while the qualitative evaluation indices MF (projectile mass ratio) and l (average lumpiness) increase from 0.3261 to 0.4184 and from 32.96 mm to 38.12 mm, respectively. With increasing loading rates, the brittleness of the rock increases significantly. A series of qualitative and quantitative results, including fractal characteristics and acoustic emission parameters, reveal the crack evolution patterns of granite under different loading rates and confirm the rationality of the brittleness index. This study provides theoretical guidance for practical deep underground engineering applications.

### [Heating and fracture spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of key granite minerals under microwave irradiation](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/heating-and-fracture-spatiotemporal-evolution-characteristics-of-key-granite-minerals-under-microwave-irradiation) [DOI: 10.1007/s11771-026-6207-4]
Microwave fracturing offers significant potential for efficient hard rock fragmentation. This study investigates real-time heating and fracture characteristics of ten granitoid minerals under 2 kW microwave irradiation for 3 min. Chlorite, amphibole, and altered plagioclase were identified as highly microwave-sensitive, exhibiting high mass and P-wave velocity decay, rapid heating rates (>2.5 ℃/s) and violent rupture. Mineral surface temperature non-uniformity, quantified by the coefficient of variation (VT), evolved through distinct increasing, decreasing, and stabilizing phases, reflecting shifts in dominance between heat accumulation and transfer. Temperature gradients revealed the spatial relationship between hotspots and rupture points, with shallow melting influencing surface temperature distribution. Undamaged minerals exhibited significant temperature gradient spatiotemporal variability but ultimately stabilizing. These results enable prediction of microwave heating behavior in hard rocks containing analogous minerals and enhance our understanding of microwave-induced weakening mechanisms.

### [An innovative design driven by contact performances for skiving of spur face gear drive with single cutter](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/an-innovative-design-driven-by-contact-performances-for-skiving-of-spur-face-gear-drive-with-single-cutter) [DOI: 10.1007/s11771-026-6182-9]
This study develops a contact performance-driven method for skiving face gear drives using a single cutter, eliminating the traditional need for separate cutters to reduce production costs and time. First, the mathematical models of the tooth flanks for the face gear drives are established based on the gear skiving processes. Then, load tooth contact analysis (LTCA) model is established to calculate the contact performance data. Next, a two-stage optimization model is employed to determine the optimal parameters of the cutting edge with improved contact performances. The effectiveness of this method is validated through simulations and rolling tests. Compared with the traditional method, the proposed method can machine both the face gear and its mating pinion with a single cutter. Simulation results show that the proposed method avoids tooth surface edge contact, with the maximum tooth surface contact stress reduced by 31.7%, the contact ratio decreases by 21.5%, and the transmission error increases by 22.3%. Rolling tests verify the consistency of tooth surface contact patterns between simulations and experiments. The proposed method provides a reference for the cutting edge design of skiving cutters for face gear pairs.

### [Scalable Manufacturing and Precise Patterning of Perovskites for Light-Emitting Diodes](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/scalable-manufacturing-and-precise-patterning-of-perovskites-for-light-emitting-diodes) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-02012-8]
Owing to the exceptional optoelectronic properties, metal halide perovskites have emerged as leading semiconductor materials for next-generation display technologies, providing perovskite light-emitting diodes (PeLEDs) great potential for high-quality color displays with a wide color gamut and pure color emission. Although laboratory-scale PeLEDs have achieved near-theoretical efficiencies, challenges such as achieving uniform large-area films, improving material stability, and enhancing patterning precision remain barriers to commercialization. This review presents a systematic analysis of scalable manufacturing and precision patterning strategies for PeLEDs, focusing on their applications in large-area lighting and full-color displays. Fabrication methods are categorized into film deposition techniques (spin-coating, blade-coating, and thermal evaporation) and patterning strategies, including top-down (photolithography, laser/e-beam lithography, and nanoimprinting) and bottom-up (patterned crystal growth, inkjet printing, and electrohydrodynamic jet printing) approaches. In this review, we discuss the advantages and limitations of each strategy, highlight current challenges, and outlook possible pathways towards scalable, high-performance PeLEDs for advanced optoelectronic applications.

### [Engineering Renewable Lignocellulosic Biomass as Sustainable Solar-Driven Interfacial Evaporators](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/engineering-renewable-lignocellulosic-biomass-as-sustainable-solar-driven-interfacial-evaporators) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-02000-y]
The increasing scarcity of freshwater resources has driven the rapid emergence of solar-driven interfacial evaporators (SDIEs) as a sustainable approach to harvest fresh water by utilizing solar energy. Lignocellulosic biomass, featuring natural abundance, excellent renewability, unique natural structures, and superior biodegradability compared to the synthetic polymers, is highly attractive for constructing solar steam generators. This review aims to offer an innovative and in-depth insight into designing and optimizing high-performance integrated solar interfacial evaporators derived from renewable lignocellulosic biomass. First, the structural characteristics of lignocellulosic biomass are briefly introduced, serving as photothermal layer or supporting substrates in SDIEs. Secondly, the fabrication methods and processing technologies of lignocellulosic biomass-based evaporators are summarized from the perspective of photothermal layer and supporting substrates. Next, the most recent advances of regulation and optimization strategies are proposed to improve evaporation efficiency. Subsequently, this review summarizes the diverse functionalities of SDIEs, including desalination, power generation, wastewater treatment and antimicrobial, atmospheric water harvesting, and photocatalytic hydrogen production. Finally, the challenges in this field and outlook on the future development are discussed, which are anticipated to provide new opportunities for the advancement of lignocellulosic biomass-based SDIEs.

### [Enhancing Ultraviolet Stability and Operational Durability of Perovskite Photodetectors by Incorporating Chlorine into Thermally-Switchable Tautomeric Passivators](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/enhancing-ultraviolet-stability-and-operational-durability-of-perovskite-photodetectors-by-incorporating-chlorine-into-thermally-switchable-tautomeric-passivators) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-02015-5]
UV-absorbing additives have recently been demonstrated to be effective interfacial modifiers that simultaneously enhance the UV stability and crystallization of halide perovskite. However, the underlying mechanisms concerning UV absorption, defect passivation, and efficacy optimization of these additives remain unresolved. Herein, two UV tautomeric absorbers (UV320 and UV327) are selected as defect-passivators for perovskites. The keto–enol tautomeric evolution processes and corresponding defect passivation performance/mechanism of both the original molecules and their tautomers are thoroughly compared and elucidated through experimental characterizations and density functional theory calculations. The additional carbonyl (–C=O) groups generated through the keto–enol tautomeric process triggered by the Cl atom in UV327 ultimately provide superior chemical coordination and enhanced defect-passivation capability compared to the original counterparts. Moreover, the versatility of K-UV327 is further demonstrated by its optimization of SnO2 film quality, interfacial energy band alignment, charge extraction efficiency, and defect state suppression. The photodetector optimized by UV327’s tautomer achieves an ultralow dark current density of 3.22 × 10−10 A cm−2, an enhanced linear dynamic range of 94.14 dB, and a fast response time of 23.35/26.19 μs. Notably, unencapsulated devices maintain a stable response at 3900 Hz following 300 h exposure to 40% ± 5% relative humidity and 30 h UV irradiation.

### [Iron–Manganese Dual-Doping Tailors the Electronic Structure of Na3V2(PO4)2F3 for High-Performance Sodium-Ion Batteries](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/ironmanganese-dual-doping-tailors-the-electronic-structure-of-na3v2po42f3-for-high-performance-sodium-ion-batteries) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01881-3]
Sodium superionic conductor (NASICON)-type materials are promising cathodes for sodium-ion batteries due to their stable multi-channel frameworks and exceptional ionic conductivity. Among them, Na3V2(PO4)2F3 (NVPF) has attracted significant attention. However, the low electronic conductivity and phase impurities limit its sodium storage capability. Herein, we present a Fe and Mn dual-doped NVPF (FM-NVPF) cathode with improved phase purity, electronic conductivity, and electrochemical activities. Detailed ex-situ analyses and density functional theory calculations reveal that Fe and Mn dopants induce defect energy levels and modulate the electronic structure, resulting in a direct-to-indirect bandgap transition in NVPF, which in turn increases carrier concentration and lifetime, accelerates ionic/electronic transport, and improves structural stability. As a result, the FM-NVPF cathode delivers a high capacity of 126.6 mAh g⁻1 at 0.1 C (1 C = 128 mAh g⁻1) and outstanding high-rate capability of 67.6 mAh g⁻1 at 50 C, corresponding to 1.2 min per charge. Furthermore, Na ion full cells assembled with the FM-NVPF cathodes and hard carbon anodes exhibit a high energy density of about 175 Wh kg⁻1 cathode+anode mass and appealing cyclic stability. This work provides an efficient strategy for developing high-purity and high-performance NVPF cathode materials for advanced sodium-ion batteries.

### [A High-Performance Thermal Charging Cell with High Power Density and Long Runtime Enabled by Zn2+ and NH4+ Co-insertion](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/a-high-performance-thermal-charging-cell-with-high-power-density-and-long-runtime-enabled-by-zn2-and-nh4-co-insertion) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-02011-9]
Zn-based thermal charging devices, utilizing the synergistic effect of ion thermoextraction and thermodiffusion, are able to efficiently convert thermal energy into electrical energy and storage in the devices, making them a highly promising technology for low-grade heat recovery and utilization. However, the low output power density and energy conversion efficiency resulted by the slow diffusion kinetics of Zn2+ hinder their development. Herein, we present a high-performance thermal charging cell design using Zn2+/NH4+ hybrid ion electrolyte, which not only maintains the high output voltage of the Zn-based thermoelectric system, but also significantly enhances the output power density due to the fast diffusion kinetics of NH4+. Based on this strategy, the thermal charging cell displays a high thermopower of 12.5 mV K−1 and an excellent normalized power density of 19.6 mW m−2 K−2 at a temperature difference of 35 K. The Carnot-relative efficiency is as high as 12.74%. Moreover, it can operate continuously for over 72 h when the temperature difference persists, achieving a balance between thermoelectric conversion and output. This work provides a simple and effective strategy for the design of high-performance thermal charging cells for low-grade heat conversion and utilization.

### [Electrically Insulating Rigid Multi-Channel Electrolyte Container for Customizable Electron Transfer in Zn-Halogen Batteries](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/electrically-insulating-rigid-multi-channel-electrolyte-container-for-customizable-electron-transfer-in-zn-halogen-batteries) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-02007-5]
Recent advancements in Zn-halogen batteries have focused on enhancing the adsorptive or catalytic capability of host materials and stabilizing complex intermediates with electrolyte additives, while the halogen-ion electrolyte modifications exhibit strong potential for integrated interfacial regulation. Herein, we design an electrically insulating rigid electrolyte container to immobilize a liquid halogen-ion electrolyte for separator-free Zn-halogen batteries with customizable electron transfer. Robust hydrogen bonding of hydroxyl groups in SiO2 with fluorinated moieties in PVDF-hfp regulates Zn2+ solvation and suppresses H2O activity, while multi-channels formed by microcracks and interparticle gaps not only enhance mass transfer but also buffer interfacial electric field, jointly enabling a durable Zn plating/stripping. Effective confinement of intermediates also ensures the high reversibility across single-(I−/I0), double-(I−/I0/I⁺), and triple-(I−/I0/I⁺, Cl−/Cl0) electron transfer mechanisms at cathode, as evidenced by the double-electron transfer systems exhibiting a low capacity decay rate of 0.02‰ over 4500 cycles at 10 mA cm−2 and a high areal capacity of 11.9 mAh cm−2 at 2 mA cm−2. This work presents a novel “container engineering” approach to halogen-ion electrolyte design and provides fundamental insights into the relationships between redox reversibility and reaction kinetics.

### [Design, Fabrication, and Application of Stretchable Electronic Conductors](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/design-fabrication-and-application-of-stretchable-electronic-conductors) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-02009-3]
Stretchable electronics have been recognized as intriguing next-generation electronics that possess huge market value, and stretchable electronic conductors (SECs) are essential for stretchable electronics, which not only can serve as critical functional components but also are the indispensable electronic connections bridging various electronic components within stretchable electronic systems. Herein, we offer a comprehensive review of recent progress in SECs including the material categories, structure designs, fabrication techniques, and applications. The characteristics, performance enhancement strategies, and application requirements are emphasized. Based on the recent advances, the existing challenges and future prospects are outlined and discussed.

### [Regulating Li+ Transport and Interfacial Stability with Zwitterionic COF Protective Layer Towards High-Performance Lithium Metal Batteries](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/regulating-li-transport-and-interfacial-stability-with-zwitterionic-cof-protective-layer-towards-high-performance-lithium-metal-batteries) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-02017-3]
The sluggish Li+ migration kinetics and unstable electrode/electrolyte interface severely hinder the commercial application of high-performance lithium metal batteries (LMBs). Herein, an artificial protective layer is constructed using zwitterionic covalent organic framework (Z-COF) simultaneously containing sulfonate and ethidium groups, aiming to facilitate rapid, uniform Li+ transport and stabilize anode interface. The sulfonate groups with high lithiophilicity provide abundant hopping sites for fast Li+ diffusion. The ethidium cations immobilize TFSI− and solvent molecules by ion–dipole interactions, which accelerate the dissociation of LiTFSI and Li+ desolvation. Moreover, the monodispersed zwitterionic units coupling with ordered micropore structures in Z-COF create exclusive Li+ migration channels, modulate homogeneous space charge distribution, kinetically facilitating uniform Li+ deposition. Experiments and theoretical calculations indicate that C–F and S–N bonds of TFSI− exhibit enhanced cleavage susceptibility driven by electrostatic attraction, realizing a LiF/Li3N-rich electrolyte/electrode interface. The designed Z-COF protection layer enables Li|Li symmetrical cells stable cycling over 6300 h at 2 mA cm−2/2 mAh cm−2. The Z-COF@Li|LiFePO4 (LFP) full cells deliver high-capacity retention of 85.2% after 1000 cycles at 8 C. The assembled Z-COF@Li|LFP pouch cells demonstrate a lifespan of more than 240 cycles. This work provides fresh insights into the practical application of zwitterionic COF in next-generation LMBs.

### [Highly Elastic and Conductive Lamellar Wood Sponge via Cell Wall Reconfiguration Toward Smart Multifunctional Applications](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/highly-elastic-and-conductive-lamellar-wood-sponge-via-cell-wall-reconfiguration-toward-smart-multifunctional-applications) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-02016-4]
Three-dimensional porous foams and aerogels with high compressibility and elasticity hold great promise for applications in pressure sensing, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, and thermal insulation. However, their widespread application is often hindered by compromised structural stability and inadequate fatigue resistance under repeated compression. Herein, a sustainable “top-down” cell wall reconfiguration strategy is proposed to fabricate highly elastic, fatigue-resistant, and electrically conductive lamellar wood sponge from natural balsa wood. This strategy involves the conversion of the intrinsic cellular structure of wood into an arch-shaped lamellar architecture reinforced by chemical cross-linking, followed by coating the lamellar scaffold with conductive polypyrrole (PPy) via in situ polymerization. The resulting PPy-coated cross-linked wood sponge (CWS@PPy) demonstrates reversible compressibility, excellent fatigue resistance (∼3.5% plastic deformation after 10,000 cycles at 40% strain). The strain-induced conductivity changes in CWS@PPy enable tunable EMI shielding effectiveness under cyclic compression and also facilities high-sensitivity pressure sensing (0.72 kPa−1). Additionally, CWS@PPy exhibits a low through-plane thermal conductivity of 0.037 W m−1 K−1, which can be dynamically tuned for adaptive thermal management. The proposed mechanically robust and conductive wood sponge provides a versatile and sustainable platform for next-generation smart devices.

### [Artificial Intelligence-Enhanced Wearable Blood Pressure Monitoring in Resource-Limited Settings: A Co-Design of Sensors, Model, and Deployment](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/artificial-intelligence-enhanced-wearable-blood-pressure-monitoring-in-resource-limited-settings-a-co-design-of-sensors-model-and-deployment) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-02003-9]
Accurate blood pressure (BP) monitoring is essential for preventing and managing cardiovascular disease. Advancements in materials science, medicine, flexible electronic, and artificial intelligence (AI) have enabled cuffless, unobtrusive BP monitoring systems, offering an alternative to traditional sphygmomanometers. However, extending these advances to real-world cardiovascular care particularly in resource-limited settings remains challenging due to constraints in computational resources, power efficiency, and deployment scalability. This review presents a comprehensive synthesis of AI-enhanced wearable BP monitoring, emphasizing its potential for personalized, scalable, and accessible healthcare. We systematically analyze the end-to-end system architecture, from mechano-electric sensing principles and AI-based estimation models to edge-aware deployment strategies tailored for low-resource environments. We further discuss clinical validation metrics and implementation barriers and prospective strategies. To bridge lab-to-field translation, we propose an innovative "sensor-model-deployment-assessment" co-design framework. This roadmap highlights how AI-enhanced BP technologies can support proactive hypertension control and promote cardiovascular health equity on a global scale.

### [Sandwich-Architected Hybrid Organic Crystals with Humidity–Temperature Sensing and Cryogenic Photothermal Actuation](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/sandwich-architected-hybrid-organic-crystals-with-humiditytemperature-sensing-and-cryogenic-photothermal-actuation) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01996-7]
The growing demand for personalized health care, smart wearables, and advanced environmental monitoring has spurred the development of multifunctional materials that combine flexibility, environmental adaptability, and diverse functionalities. However, conventional materials often failed to integrate these attributes simultaneously, hindering their applicability in next-generation technologies. Here, we present an organic–inorganic hybrid crystalline material with a unique sandwich-like architecture, in which a flexible organic crystal core is encased by reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). This strategic integration endows the material with fluorescence, cryogenic flexibility, and electrical conductivity, while also enabling dual sensing and actuation capabilities. The rGO layer facilitates real-time humidity (25–90% RH) and temperature (25–180 °C) sensing through environmental interactions, whereas the differential thermal expansion between TPU and the flexible crystal core drives efficient photothermal actuation at −150 °C for advanced thermal regulation. The hybrid material exhibits stable performance under extreme conditions, making it a promising candidate for biomedical monitoring, flexible electronics, and energy applications. This work establishes hybrid crystalline materials as versatile and scalable platforms for addressing complex technological demands, paving the way for their application in next-generation multifunctional devices.

### [Interface Engineering Strategies for Shuttle Mitigation in Alkali Metal–Sulfur Batteries: A Comparative Review from Li–S to Na–S and K–S Systems](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/interface-engineering-strategies-for-shuttle-mitigation-in-alkali-metalsulfur-batteries-a-comparative-review-from-lis-to-nas-and-ks-systems) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-02004-8]
Rechargeable alkali metal-sulfur (M–S) batteries, including Li/Na/K–S chemistries, have the potential to utilize abundant and low-cost sulfur cathodes yet offer high theoretical energy densities. However, their practical electrochemical performance is fundamentally limited by the polysulfide shuttle effect. This challenge is particularly exacerbated in Na–S and K–S systems owing to larger metal-ion radii, weaker solvation energies, slower redox kinetics, and greater electrolyte–electrode incompatibilities compared to Li–S batteries. This review presents a comparative analysis of interface engineering strategies designed to suppress the shuttle effect across these three systems. Following a summary of sulfur cathode properties and reaction mechanisms, we systematically examine the origins of polysulfide shuttling. Our analysis progresses from functional separator design and interlayer enhancements to the implementation of solid‑state electrolytes for root-cause inhibition. By evaluating interface engineering research specific to Na–S and K–S batteries, we elucidate both shared principles and unique challenges inherent to alkali M-S systems. Finally, we propose multifaceted solutions to achieve shuttle-free operation and enhance overall battery performance, thereby establishing a foundation for future advancements.

### [In situ Studies of Electrochemical Energy Conversion and Storage Technologies: From Materials, Intermediates, and Products to Surroundings](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/in-situ-studies-of-electrochemical-energy-conversion-and-storage-technologies-from-materials-intermediates-and-products-to-surroundings) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-02014-6]
Escalating global energy demands and climate urgency necessitate advanced electrochemical energy conversion and storage technologies (EECSTs) like electrocatalysis and rechargeable batteries. Improving their performance relies on elucidating reaction mechanisms and structure-performance relationships via in situ studies. This review summarizes recent in situ studies of EECSTs through a variety of advanced characterization techniques aiming at mapping reaction pathways for the rational design of overall high-performance reaction systems. We outline the principles, capabilities, advantages, and limitations of various in situ techniques. Their applications in in situ studies of fuel cells, water/CO2 electrolysis, and lithium batteries are highlighted with representative examples. These studies enable dynamic tracking of chemical and structural evolution of overall reaction systems, including materials, intermediates, products, and surroundings during operation, providing insights critical to rational system design. Future advancements will involve integrating multimodal in situ/operando approaches with artificial intelligence to enable real-time monitoring at practical scales. Such integration promises precise mechanistic insights and robust structure-performance correlations, ultimately accelerating the development of high-performance EECSTs aligned with sustainability and market requirements.

### [Nature-Inspired Redox Shuttle with Regenerable Antioxidant for Efficient All-Perovskite Tandem Solar Cells](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/nature-inspired-redox-shuttle-with-regenerable-antioxidant-for-efficient-all-perovskite-tandem-solar-cells) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-02006-6]
Pb–Sn mixed perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are crucial components for realizing efficient all-perovskite tandem devices. However, their efficiency and stability are severely limited by oxidative degradation (Sn4+ formation) and metallic defects (Sn0/Pb0). In addition, the rapid and uncontrolled Sn2+ nucleation kinetics result in nonuniform crystallization. Herein, we introduce a natural redox shuttle glutathione (GSH) in Pb–Sn mixed PSCs, achieving regenerable antioxidation and crystallization regulation simultaneously. The reversible redox reactions between GSH and glutathione disulfide (GSSG) enable the self-healing of Sn4+ and Sn0/Pb0 impurities, creating a regenerable antioxidation protective shell at the perovskite interfaces. Meanwhile, the strong coordination between GSH and perovskite regulates the crystallization process, optimizing the nucleation and crystallization kinetics. Furthermore, the GSH incorporation creates a high-quality charge separation junction at the perovskite/hole transport layer, facilitating carrier separation and extraction. The optimized Pb–Sn PSCs exhibit impressive power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of up to 23.71%. The champion all-perovskite tandem PSCs with GSH achieve a PCE of 28.49% and retain 90% of the initial PCE after 560 h of continuous illumination. This work establishes a new nature-inspired redox shuttling strategy and elucidates its working mechanism, advancing the development of efficient and stable all-perovskite tandem solar cells.

### [Vertical Interfacial Engineering in Two-Step-Processed Perovskite Films Enabled by Dual-Interface Modification for High-Efficiency p-i-n Solar Cells](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/vertical-interfacial-engineering-in-two-step-processed-perovskite-films-enabled-by-dual-interface-modification-for-high-efficiency-p-i-n-solar-cells) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-02010-w]
Two-step-processed (TSP) inverted p-i-n perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have demonstrated significant promise in tandem applications. However, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of TSP p-i-n PSCs rarely exceeds 24%. Here, we demonstrate that TSP perovskite films exhibit a vertically gradient distribution of residual PbI2 clusters, which form Schottky heterojunctions with the perovskite, leading to substantial interfacial energy-level mismatches within NiOx-based TSP p-i-n PSCs. These limitations were effectively addressed via a vertical interfacial engineering enabled by dual-interface modification incorporating tin trifluoromethanesulfonate (Sn(OTF)2) and 4-Fluorophenylethylamine chloride (F-PEA) at the NiOx/perovskite and perovskite/C60 interfaces, respectively. The functional Sn(OTF)2 not only enhances the conductivity of NiOx films but also suppresses ion migration, while inducing the formation of a Pb-Sn mixed perovskite interlayer that precisely regulates the energy level at the NiOx/perovskite interface. Complementally, F-PEA post-treatment effectively converts surface residual PbI2 clusters into a 2D perovskite capping layer, which simultaneously passivates surface defects and enhances energy-level alignment at the perovskite/C60 interface. Consequently, the optimized NiOx-based TSP p-i-n PSCs achieve a notable PCE of 25.6% with superior operational stability. This study elucidates the underlying mechanisms limiting the efficiency of TSP p-i-n PSCs, while establishing design principles for these devices targeting 26% efficiency.

### [Vapor Deposition Engineering for Thin-Film Microbatteries: From Nanoscale Ionics to Interface-Integrated Architectures](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/vapor-deposition-engineering-for-thin-film-microbatteries-from-nanoscale-ionics-to-interface-integrated-architectures) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-02002-w]
The rapid proliferation of microelectronics, coupled with the advent of the internet of things (IoT) era, has created an urgent demand for miniaturized, integrable, and reliable on-chip energy storage systems. All-solid-state thin-film microbatteries (TFMBs), distinguished by their intrinsic safety, compact design, and compatibility with microfabrication techniques, have emerged as promising candidates to power next-generation IoT devices. Nevertheless, in contrast to the well-established development of conventional lithium-ion batteries, the advancement of TFMBs remains at an early stage, facing persistent challenges in materials innovation, interface optimization, and scalable manufacturing. This review critically examines the pivotal role of vapor deposition technologies, including magnetron sputtering, pulsed laser deposition, thermal/electron-beam evaporation, chemical vapor deposition, and atomic layer deposition, in the fabrication and performance modulation of TFMBs. We systematically summarize recent progress in thin-film electrodes and solid-state electrolytes, with particular emphasis on how deposition parameters dictate crystallinity, lattice orientation, and ionic transport in functional layers. Furthermore, we highlight strategies for solid–solid interface engineering, three-dimensional structural design, and multifunctional integration to enhance capacity retention, cycling stability, and interfacial compatibility. Looking ahead, TFMBs are expected to evolve toward multifunctional platforms, exhibiting mechanical flexibility, optical transparency, and hybrid energy-harvesting compatibility, thereby meeting the heterogeneous energy requirements of future IoT ecosystems. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive perspective on vapor-phase-enabled TFMB technologies, delivering both theoretical insights and technological guidelines for the scalable realization of high-performance microscale power sources.

### [Magnetic–Dielectric Synergy in One-Dimensional Metal Heterostructures for Enhanced Low-Frequency Microwave Absorption](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/magneticdielectric-synergy-in-one-dimensional-metal-heterostructures-for-enhanced-low-frequency-microwave-absorption) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01995-8]
Microwave absorption (MA) materials often face poor synergy between impedance matching and attenuation in the low-frequency range. Balancing permittivity and permeability through magnetic–dielectric synergy is a promising strategy to address this issue. To realize the synergy, herein, Sn whiskers with an in situ oxide layer served as substrates for magnetic-loss-active CoNi nanosheet growth, forming a hierarchical CoNi@SnO2@Sn (CNS) heterostructure. The CNS absorber achieves a minimum reflection loss (RLmin) value of −62.29 dB with an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 2.2 GHz, covering the entire C-band with 70% absorption at only 2.61 mm thickness. The nanosheet design of CoNi enhances magnetic anisotropy to promote natural resonance, while the conductive Sn core and abundant Sn/SnO2 and CoNi/SnO2 heterointerfaces facilitate conduction loss and dielectric polarization. When composited into a thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) matrix, the resulting CNS/TPU-2 film (20 wt% CNS) exhibits an RLmin value of -61.04 dB and a 2.5 GHz EAB. Its in-plane and through-plane thermal conductivities reach 2.41 and 0.51 W m−1 K−1, representing 4.1 and 2.6 times those of pure TPU films, respectively, facilitating heat dissipation from protected devices. This work provides valuable insights into magnetic–dielectric synergy for low-frequency MA of 1D metal-based materials, offering promising potential for 5G communications and flexible electronics.

### [Oxygen-Pressure Protocol Breaking Cycle Limit of Continuously Reversible Lithium-Oxygen Batteries](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/oxygen-pressure-protocol-breaking-cycle-limit-of-continuously-reversible-lithium-oxygen-batteries) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01990-z]
Lithium-oxygen (Li-O2) battery is favored among “beyond lithium-ion” technologies for sustainability because of its exceptional energy density. Major impediments are the poor cycle stability and grievous capacity degradation at high current densities. We address these issues by a “killing two birds with one stone” O2-pressure protocol. It first resolves efficient O2 mass transport at high rates. The accelerated reaction kinetics optimizes the composition and growth pathway of discharge products. This protocol secondly achieves protection of Li anodes via densifying corrosion layers on them. Consequently, the battery delivers both ultrahigh discharge capacity (> 9,000 mAh g−1) at 3,000 mA g−1 and excellent cycling stability. Under a dual-strategy effect of high-pressure O2 and artificial protection layers, the battery actualizes over 11-fold increase in cycle life of 5,170 h (2,585 cycles). The strategy opens avenues for advancing Li-O2 batteries towards practical application and confers the extension to other gas-based batteries.

### [Emerging Chemical and Biological Materials Technologies in the Extraplanetary Environment](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/emerging-chemical-and-biological-materials-technologies-in-the-extraplanetary-environment) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01979-8]
Space exploration and manufacturing are of critical importance for scientific advancement, technological innovation, national security, and the acquisition of extraterrestrial resources. In view of this, chemical and biological nano-/micro-/meso-scale manufacturing provide complementary approaches to overcome key space exploration challenges by enabling the in-situ production of essential life-support materials, propellants, and other resources. This review examines the origin and historical evolution of space manufacturing and the latest advances across different environments—from orbital space stations and the lunar surface to Mars and asteroids. It is structured to present the current state of research, outline key manufacturing strategies and technologies, assess the technical and environmental challenges, and discuss emerging trends and future directions. Besides, the potential applications of emerging technologies such as synthetic biology and artificial intelligence in overcoming the limitations of microgravity, limited resources, and extreme conditions are discussed. Ultimately, this integrative review could serve to guide future development, from advancing space science and disruptive manufacturing to enabling interdisciplinary and application-level innovations.

### [Flexible Sensors for Battery Health Monitoring](https://sinotechintel.com/paper/flexible-sensors-for-battery-health-monitoring) [DOI: 10.1007/s40820-025-01999-4]
With the widespread application of lithium batteries in electric vehicles and energy storage systems, battery-related safety and reliability issues have become increasingly prominent. Conventional monitoring methods often struggle to address dynamic changes under complex operando. In recent years, flexible sensing technology has emerged as a promising solution for battery health monitoring due to its high adaptability and conformability to complex structures. Meanwhile, empowered by artificial intelligence (AI) for data analysis, the collected data enables efficient and accurate state assessment, offering robust support for accident prevention. Against this background, this paper first explores the integrated applications of flexible sensors in battery health monitoring and their unique advantages in addressing complex battery operating conditions, while analyzing the potential of AI in battery state analysis. Subsequently, it systematically reviews mainstream flexible sensing technologies (e.g., film sensors, thermocouples, and optical fiber sensors), elucidating their mechanisms for revealing intricate internal battery processes during operation. Finally, the paper discusses AI’s role in enhancing monitoring efficiency and accuracy, and envisions future research directions and application prospects. This work aims to provide technical references for the battery health monitoring field as well as promote the application of flexible sensing technologies in improving battery system safety and reliability.