We have used a rapid, solvent-free pulse laser ablation in liquids technique to create sulfur-defect rich zinc indium sulfide (ZnIn₂S₄) nanosheets. These engineered defects act as super-active sites, dramatically improving the material's ability to convert carbon dioxide (CO₂) into carbon monoxide (CO) using visible light. The optimized photocatalyst shows a 15-fold increase in performance and high stability, offering a promising new pathway for clean fuel production and carbon capture

Single-molecule spintronics is an emerging interdisciplinary field that integrates molecular electronics with spin-based information science, offering novel pathways for encoding, manipulating, and detecting spin at the molecular level. This review explores the fundamental principles, advances, and prospects of single-molecule spin devices, emphasizing the manipulation of spin states in various molecular systems, such as single-molecule magnets, spin crossover complexes, organic radicals, and chiral molecules. Due to their intrinsic quantum characteristics and tunable functionalities, these systems serve as ideal platforms for investigating spin-related phenomena including Kondo effects, spin filtering, and thermoelectric effects. The integration of molecular junctions with advanced measurement techniques, such as spin-polarized scanning tunneling microscopy and electron spin resonance, has significantly advanced the understanding of spin transport and coherence in single-molecule configurations. Furthermore, potential applications of these molecules in devices like spin valves, spin switches, and quantum bits are discussed, highlighting their promise for realizing low-power, high-efficiency spintronic technologies. Despite significant progress, several challenges remain in terms of stability, reproducibility, and scalability, necessitating further research into molecular design, interfacial engineering, and quantum coherence to enable practical applications in molecular spintronics and quantum information science.

As two-dimensional (2D) materials emerge as leading candidates for next-generation electronics, a critical challenge remains: the quality of electrical contact with metal electrodes. A new review published in Nano Research systematically explores the dual nature of the Schottky barrier at 2D material–metal interfaces, offering a comprehensive roadmap for engineering both Ohmic and Schottky contacts to unlock the full potential of 2D devices.

Self-emissive quantum dot light-emitting diodes (QLEDs) are promising next-generation displays, but their industrialization is hindered by uncontrollable acid-induced positive aging, leading to non-uniform luminescence and short operating lifetimes. Researchers from BOE Technology Group developed a solution-processed thermal treatment strategy for ZnMgO electron transport layers, reducing the density of oxygen vacancies and increases the nanoparticle size, enabling QLED devices to achieve uniform electroluminescence with high efficiency, bright luminance and longer operating lifetime. This work provides a reliable route for scalable manufacturing of high-performance QLED displays.

Researchers at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities have developed a new strategy that could help compostable plastics break down more quickly under everyday composting conditions, reducing the need for specialized industrial facilities.