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Updates every hour. Last Updated: 22-Oct-2026 13:16 ET (22-Oct-2026 17:16 GMT/UTC)
Atomic-level local-structure engineering of Pt-group oxygen electrocatalysts for fuel cells and water electrolyzers
Tsinghua University PressProton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) and proton exchange membrane water electrolyzers (PEMWEs) are key devices for achieving efficient "hydrogen-electricity" conversion. They have attracted significant attention due to their high energy conversion efficiency and zero carbon emissions. However, their core component, oxygen reduction/evolution (ORR/OER) electrocatalysts, still face challenges of activity and stability. Among them, platinum-group catalysts (such as Pt, Ir, Ru) are currently the most effective ORR/OER catalysts, but issues like their scarcity and high cost severely limit their large-scale utilization in PEMFCs/PEMWEs. Single-atom catalysts (SACs) and multi-atom catalysts (MACs), with their nearly 100% metal utilization rate and unique electronic structures, provide a new path for developing low-loading, high-activity, and high-stability platinum-group catalysts.
- Journal
- Nano Research
Ultrathin and ultrastrong hydrogel membranes enable conformal bioelectronics
Science China PressResearchers have developed an ultrathin yet ultrastrong hydrogel membrane that enables robust and conformal integration between electronic devices and biological tissues. The ~10 μm-thick material combines high strength, exceptional toughness, and tissue-like softness through a biomimetic microfibrillar network design. It supports multimodal sensing and stimulation while maintaining stable contact with complex 3D tissues, offering new opportunities for wearable and implantable bioelectronics.
- Journal
- National Science Review
Biochar shows strong promise for locking more carbon in soils, global review finds
Biochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University- Journal
- Biochar
A bifunctional cathode enabling efficient decomposition and utilization of nitrous oxide in protonic ceramic fuel cells for power generation
Tsinghua University PressProtonic ceramic fuel cells (PCFCs) have been recognized as promising power generation devices for future clean energy systems, owing to their relatively low activation energy for proton migration and high energy conversion efficiency. In certain application scenarios, the use of N2O (a potent greenhouse gas), as an alternative oxidant to air, presents a feasible strategy. This work can provide a feasible direction for energy and environmental protection strategies.
- Journal
- Nano Research
Pore engineering via controlled decomposition of counter cations in an anion-based metal-organic framework
Tsinghua University PressResearchers now report an yttrium-based MOF, Y-ebdc, featuring cage-type structures that accommodate protonated dimethylamine (DMA) as both counter cations and molecular sieving gates. Subsequent optimization of the adsorption separation performance for propylene/propane (C3H6/C3H8) was achieved through regulation of DMA’s thermal decomposition. With approximately 70% of DMA removed, the expanded aperture window and increased pore volume remarkably enhance dynamic C3H6 uptake while simultaneously facilitating the direct production of polymer-grade (>99.5%) C3H6 in a single adsorption–desorption cycle.
- Journal
- Nano Research
Paper-based sacrificial template method: Preparation of large-area, robust, and reusability iridescent photonic crystal film
Tsinghua University PressLarge-area and free-standing photonic crystal polymer films exhibit highly saturated iridescence and robust structural colors, making them promising for applications in the field of display, anti-counterfeiting, and camouflage. However, their practical utilization has been hindered by challenges in achieving both vivid coloration and reusability. Professor Suli Wu's team at Dalian University of Technology has developed a sandwich-structured PC film that overcomes this limitation. Fabricated through colloidal self-assembly on porous paper substrates and polymer encapsulation, the film features a PC core protected by two polymer layers, exhibiting a synergistic effect that ensures excellent color fastness (withstanding 100 rubbing cycles), bright iridescence, flexibility, and reusability. By replacing the bottom layer with adhesive, a versatile PC sticker adaptable to various surfaces can be created, offering a new approach to functional iridescent polymer films.
- Journal
- Nano Research
Multifunctional deer antler decellularized hydrogel provides a new synergistic therapeutic strategy for diabetic wounds
Tsinghua University PressDiabetic wounds are complicated to heal due to factors such as infection, excessive inflammation, and impaired angiogenesis. Now, a groundbreaking, innovative hydrogel dressing has emerged, synthesized from the decellularized extracellular matrix of deer antler and a therapeutic metal-phenolic network. This multifunctional material opens up new prospects for chronic wound management by synergistically exerting antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects while promoting robust angiogenesis and tissue regeneration.
- Journal
- Nano Research
Dual-polymer strategy engineers a high-performance catalyst for green urea synthesis
Tsinghua University PressA novel catalyst featuring a unique Ni−O−Si interface, engineered through a dual-polymer modification, enables efficient urea production from carbon dioxide and nitrate waste. This breakthrough offers a sustainable, energy-saving alternative to the traditional, energy-intensive industrial process, achieving high yield, selectivity, and long-term stability under ambient conditions.
- Journal
- Nano Research