A superstable, flexible, and scalable nanofluidic ion regulation composite membrane

Two-dimensional layered membranes with high and stable ion transport properties have various applications in nanofluidic devices; however, their construction remains a considerable challenge. Herein, we develop a superstable aramid nanofiber/graphite composite membrane with numerous one-dimensional and two-dimensional nano-confined interspaces for ultrafast ion transport. The fabricated flexible and scalable membrane exhibits high tensile strength (∼115.3 MPa) even after immersion in water for 90 days. Further, the aramid nanofiber/graphite conductor features the surface-charge-governed ion transport behavior. The ionic conductivity of the membrane at a low potassium chloride concentration of 10-4 mol/L can be enhanced by 16 times that of the bulk counterpart. More importantly, its structure and ionic conductivity remain unchanged even after immersion in different harsh solutions (e.g., acid, base, and ethanol) for over 30 days. Molecular dynamics simulations reveal that the superstability of the membrane is attributable to the robust interchain interactions within the aramid nanofibers and the strong interfacial interactions between the aramid nanofibers and graphite nanosheets. This study highlights the superior structural stability of the proposed flexible and scalable aramid nanofiber/graphite composite membrane, which could be employed in advanced nanofluidic devices for application under extreme working environments.

Research progress of two-dimensional antimonene in energy storage and conversion

Since the first proposal of antimonene in 2015, extensive research attention has been drawn to its application in energy storage and conversion because of its excellent layered structure and fast ion diffusion properties. However, in contrast to the revolutionary expansion of antimonene-based energy devices, reviews on this topic that summarize and further guide the design of 2D antimonene for energy storage and conversion are rare. In this review, the structure, physicochemical properties, and popular synthesis approaches of antimonene are first summarised. Specifically, the rational design and application of antimonene in energy storage and conversion such as electrochemical batteries and supercapacitors, electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction, electrocatalytic oxygen evolution reaction, electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction, photocatalytic reduction of organic pollution, photocatalytic reduction of carbon dioxide (CO₂), solar cells and photovoltaic devices are outlined. Finally, opportunities and challenges are presented to further advance the development and application of antimonene in energy conversion and storage.

Recent Advances in the Synthesis and Application of Three-Dimensional Graphene-Based Aerogels

Three-dimensional graphene-based aerogels (3D GAs), combining the intrinsic properties of graphene and 3D porous structure, have attracted increasing research interest in varied fields with potential application. Some related reviews focusing on applications in photoredox catalysis, biomedicine, energy storage, supercapacitor or other single aspect have provided valuable insights into the current status of Gas. However, systematic reviews concentrating on the diverse applications of 3D GAs are still scarce. Herein, we intend to afford a comprehensive summary to the recent progress in the preparation method (template-free and template-directed method) summarized in Preparation Strategies and the application fields (absorbent, anode material, mechanical device, fire-warning material and catalyst) illustrated in Application of 3D GAs with varied morphologies, structures, and properties. Meanwhile, some unsettled issues, existing challenges, and potential opportunities have also been proposed in Future Perspectives to spur further research interest into synthesizing finer 3D GAs and exploring wider and closer practical applications.

rGO based immunosensor amplified using MWCNT and CNF nanocomposite as analytical tool for CA125 detection

The electrochemical performance of dual layer immunosensor has been studied by employing reduced Graphene oxide (rGO) and its nanocomposites with Carbon Nanofibers (CNFs) and Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs) as supporting matrix for the detection of CA125. The immunosensor determination was based on the formation of antibody - antigen immunocomplex, a decrement in the current response was observed in accordance with the concentration of antigen. Better performance exhibited by rGO/CNF in terms of linearity (99%) and sensitivity 0.65 μA (μg mL^-1)^-1 can be attributed to its conductivity and surface area. The nanocomposite are employed in the detection of CA125 with linear working range of 10-32 × 10^-4 μg mL^-1, the limit of detection is found to be 0.28 pg mL^-1 rGO nanocomposite with CNT (rGO/CNT) is studied as transducer material. rGO/CNT exhibited better linearity when compared to rGO due to its good conductivity. Thus, graphene nanocomposite transducer materials have vital application in detection of oncomarkers.

Controllable Co@N-doped graphene anchored onto the NRGO toward electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution at all pH values

We propose a synthetic strategy to synthesize cobalt nanoparticle cores encapsulated in tunable N-doped graphene shells on N-doped reduced graphene oxide as a highly efficient and stable pH-universal electrocatalyst. The superior performance is mainly attributed to the optimization of the electrocatalytic centre and the improvement of the electronic configuration.

An insight into the outer- and inner-sphere electrochemistry of oxygenated single-walled carbon nanohorns (o-SWCNHs)

The electrocatalysis/interference of single-walled carbon nanohorns (o-SWCNHs) in relation to outer-sphere and inner-sphere electron transfer reactions.

Chemical Functionalization of Graphene Family Members

Thanks to their outstanding physicochemical properties, graphene and its derivatives are interesting nanomaterials with a high potential in several fields. Graphene, graphene oxide, and reduced graphene oxide, however, differ partially in their characteristics due to their diverse surface composition. Those differences influence the chemical reactivity of these materials. In the following chapter the reactivity and main functionalization reactions performed on graphene, graphene oxide, and reduced graphene oxide are discussed. A part is also dedicated to the main analytical techniques used for characterization of these materials. Functionalization of graphene and its derivatives is highly important to modulate their characteristics and design graphene-based conjugates with novel properties. Functionalization can be covalent by forming strong and stable bonds with the graphene surface, or non-covalent via π–π, electrostatic, hydrophobic, and/or van der Waals interactions. Both types of functionalization are currently exploited.

The role of surface oxygenated-species and adsorbed hydrogen in the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) mechanism and product selectivity on Pd-based catalysts in acid media

Surface adsorbed species can significantly alter the catalytic activity and product selectivity.