bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Investigation on the Charge Transport Properties of Cumulenic Sp-Carbon Wires in Solution and in Thin Films
Authors: Sala Ruben Elda , Pecorario Stefano , Galli Valerio , V. Damasceno Joao Paulo , Caironi Mario 
Published: December 2024

Carbon allotropic forms have gained the spotlight due to their remarkable versatility. Among all, sp-hybridised carbon has been predicted to display unmatched mechanical, thermal, and electronic properties. Cumulenes, a category of finite sp-carbon-based molecules, are model moieties that have attracted particular attention also in the form of thin films, as they present a tuneable semiconducting nature. Indeed, solution-processed films of tetraphenyl[3]cumulene ([3]Ph) and tetraphenyl[5]cumulene ([5]Ph) have been successfully employed as active layers in p-type organic field-effect transistors (OFETs). [3]Ph-based devices can even reach a field effect mobility exceeding 0.1 cm2/Vs, showing ideal behaviour and operational stability in air in dark conditions. However, cumulenic charge transport mechanisms remain largely unknown.
We here present an investigation on the electronic properties of [3]Ph, taken as the reference cumulene. Chemical and electrochemical oxidations in solution, supported by UV-Vis and Raman spectroscopy, were employed to probe the charged single molecule, revealing the formation of new transitions related to the localisation of the charge on the sp-backbone. Charge modulation spectroscopy was performed on OFETs based on thin films of [3]Ph to investigate the solid state electronic properties, leading to a good match with the results obtained from the single molecule.
The understanding of the fundamental charge transport mechanism is pivotal to exploiting the full potential of sp-hybridized molecules for large-area organic electronics, and it could also contribute to new insights regarding the infinitely long sp-carbon allotrope known as carbyne.
Structured Carbon Nanofibrous Electrode for Mass Transport Enhanced MEA for PEMFCs
Authors: Ji Yunseong , Shul Yong Gun 
Published: December 2024

Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) technology is advancing towards commercialization, with efforts focusing on the mass production of various materials to reduce development costs. Despite these efforts, the use of platinum-based catalysts—a key component in fuel cells—presents a challenge for cost reduction. As a result, the proportion of catalyst costs in the final price of fuel cells has been increasing, currently accounting for approximately 40%. Enhancing the activity and durability of the electrode layer, along with efficient catalyst utilization, could significantly lower these costs and facilitate broader market adoption of fuel cell technology.
Traditional fuel cell electrodes are fabricated by applying a mixture of platinum, carbon, and ionomers onto a polymer electrolyte membrane. The performance of these electrodes, however, is heavily influenced by the interactions among the components, making the technology less universally applicable due to its sensitivity to even minor changes in componentry.
This research introduces a novel approach by employing carbon nanofibers, created through electrospinning and subsequent graphitization, as a structural basis for the electrode layer. This carbon nanofiber layer offers structural and chemical stability, enabling a secure physical and chemical anchorage for the catalyst and ionomer. It also features well-connected macro-pores, which enhance internal reactant supply and improve gas transport within the fuel cell. Utilizing this method, an electrode layer demonstrating superior performance—approximately 800 mW/cm2 at 0.1 mgPt/cm2 and 0.65 V, with a peak performance of 1080 mW/cm2—was developed. Moreover, this electrode exhibited minimal performance degradation over 20,000 cycles under a carbon corrosion protocol, indicating significant advancements in fuel cell durability and efficiency.
(Invited) Nanosheet Antibody Mimics for Diagnosis and Therapy of Bacterial Infections
Authors: Lee Sin , Choi Yujin , Kim Jong-Ho 
Published: December 2024

Antibodies are widely employed as recognition elements in diagnosis and therapy of various diseases [1], however, they have some limitations such as poor stability, long discovery time, and high cost. Herein, we present a facile approach to create nanosheet antibody mimics with multivalent peptide recognition phases and luminescent rigid transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) nanosheets for the selective recognition, detection, and eradication of pathogenic bacteria. Tripeptides with a nitriloacetate-Cu group were spontaneously assembled on TMD nanosheets via coordinate bonding, providing a variety of TMD-tripeptide assembly (TPA) antibody mimics [2]. TMD-TPA antibody mimics selectively recognized various pathogenic bacteria, including E. coli O157:H7, S. aureus, and S. typhimurium, with high binding affinities. The bacterial binding sites for TMD-TPA were identified by experiments and molecular dynamics simulations, revealing that the dynamic and multivalent interactions of TMD-TPA antibody mimics played an important role for their selective recognition and high affinity. The TMD-TPA antibody mimics allowed the rapid, selective, and sensitive detection of pathogenic bacteria from human serum and urine. In addition, the TMD-TPA antibody mimics selectively killed the pathogenic bacteria infecting the wounds of mice under near-infrared irradiation, leading to effective healing. This work demonstrates the potential of TMD-TPA antibody mimics as an alternative to protein antibodies for diagnosis and therapy.
Reference
[1] a) H. K. Binz, P. Amstutz, A. Pluckthun, Nat. Biotechnol.
2005, 23, 1257; b) M. Gebauer, A. Skerra, Curr. Opin. Chem. Biol. 2009, 13, 245
[2] T. W. Kang, I. J. Hwang, S. Lee, S. J. Jeon, C. Choi, J. Han, Y. So, W. Son, H. Kim, C. S. Yang, J. H. Park, H. Lee, and J. H. Kim, Advanced Materials, 2021, 2101376
Sustainable Binder Materials and Their Benefits for Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Kandula Maja , Yarangünü Ayse , Rajic Anja , Hartwig Sven 
Published: December 2024

Binder materials play an increasingly important role in battery technology; they have a substantial influence on the batteries performance and lifetime behavior. However, it is widely noticed that deficiencies in binder performance, as well as aging-related issues, significantly affected the resultant shortened life cycle of batteries.
Established systems utilizing carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) have fallen short of meeting the increasing requirements regarding poor elasticity and polarity, which are of importance for accommodating volume expansion and ensure adhesion. The adhesion plays a crucial role for the connection and conductivity not only within the electrode materials but also towards the current collectors and therefore is significant for battery performance. Different influencing factors on the polymer structure like mechanical shear stress during the dispersion process or the crosslinking behavior of the binder with the active material depending on the functional groups have an impact on the binder-material-interaction and therefore on adhesion and performance of the battery cell.
The mechanical and electro physical tasks of the binder are very diverse and grow with the increase of new materials, as active materials e.g., and processing methods. However, the property profile of the binder is rarely adapted, ever through it contributes significantly to the performance of the binder cell. This research deals with sustainable battery processing by using e.g. biodegradable polymeric binder materials and the application in energy storage systems. The investigation of adhesion and cohesion characteristics of new binder systems were characterized with a combination of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) to study the binder influence on the battery cell. Especially the aging of a battery connected to the binder is evaluated by EIS. The results lead to further interpretations on the adhesion ability and the failure patterns.
Consequently, a comprehensive knowledge about binder behavior within a battery system and associated optimization of binder properties, which is imperative for achieving sustainable battery materials, is the goal for sustainable energy materials.
The Passive Flow Zinc Bromine System
Authors: Steingart Daniel A. , Irvin Lynne Elizabeth , Mohr Robert , Ju Dongrun , Williams Mateo Sebastian 
Published: December 2024

This work demonstrates a minimal overhead storage technology exploiting, rather than compensating for, the innate physical properties of the zinc-bromide system. Using two symmetric planar electrodes and a homogenous electrolyte, we present a ZnBr2 cell with over 50 Wh/L energy density, over 70% roundtrip efficiency, and a lifetime limited by cell sealing quality. The scaled cell cost is estimated to be $40/kWh.
The zinc-bromide system is known for its theoretically low cost, long lifetime, and high energy density. However, resolving this theory to practice has been difficult in active flow systems. Classic design goals work to “correct” the physical chemistry of the ZnBr systems, including rigorous separation of the charged Zn and Br2 phases, active phase control of the Br2/water mixture, and forced convection to maximize power density. But balance-of-plant support of concentrated halide electrolytes, complexing required to create reliable Br2 miscibility, and secondary safety systems required when running bromine through forced convection through manifolds conspire to increase the CAPEX and OPEX of the ZnBr2 system while decreasing its reliability.
We have previously demonstrated a “static” ZnBr2 system that follows a traditional unit cell design, where zinc plates upon a carbon current collector and Br2 reside in a carbon foam's porosity. Here we present our new designs, where we remove the complexity of the “cathode carbon foam,” replacing it with a simple carbon surface and augmenting it with a better understanding of the native stratification and mixing behaviors of the ZnBr2 electrolyte at different concentrations/state of charge. We will also present learnings of the mixing/settling behavior of the electrolyte as a function of concentration (effective SoC) and orientation, as well as the kinetics of bromine oxidation and consumption on simple carbon electrodes.

Figure 1
Enhancing Corrosion Resistance of Type 316L Stainless Steel in Marine Environments: Role of Surface Roughness and Organic Acid Passivation
Authors: Jung Rockhoon , LIM Hana , Kim Hyun-Jong 
Published: December 2024

Stainless steel is widely used in marine environments due to its excellent corrosion resistance properties. However, recent occurrences of corrosion issues related to Type 316L stainless steel in marine atmospheric environments have led to concerns regarding the suitability of Type 316L stainless steel material selection according to international standards. Factors such as surface roughness and passivation treatments can significantly affect the corrosion behavior of stainless steel in marine atmospheres. In particular, the surface roughness of conventional stainless steel piping can lead to corrosion in marine atmospheric environments when exposed for extended periods. Either option requires improving the surface roughness or applying passivation treatments to enhance corrosion resistance.
This study examines the effect of surface roughness on the corrosion resistance of Type 316L stainless steel in a marine environment using potentiodynamic polarization and accelerated corrosion tests. In addition, the impact of organic acid passivation on the corrosion behavior of stainless steel in a marine atmosphere is investigated. Surface roughness was controlled by mechanical polishing, while organic acid passivation was achieved using a solution containing citric acid, phosphoric acid, and hydrogen peroxide. Electrochemical measurements and surface characterization techniques were employed to assess the corrosion resistance of the specimens. The results demonstrate that surface roughness and organic acid passivation significantly impact the corrosion resistance of stainless steel in a marine atmosphere. Understanding the synergistic effects of these factors is crucial for enhancing the durability and performance of stainless steel components in marine applications.
Optimum Conditions for the Fabrication of Ordered Porous Alumina Via Anodizing in Etidronic Acid at Higher Voltages
Authors: Koguchi Takumi , Kikuchi Tatsuya 
Published: December 2024

Anodizing aluminum in an etidronic acid solution leads to the higher applied voltages of up to approximately 260 V without oxide burning and subsequent formation of porous alumina with a larger interpore distance measuring 650 nm. Typically, the interpore distance increases linearly with the applied voltage during anodizing. However, excess voltage more than 270 V during anodizing in etidronic acid causes oxide burning and the formation of non-uniform porous alumina film. In the present investigation, we describe the optimum operating conditions for the fabrication of ordered porous alumina with larger interpore distance via anodizing in etidronic acid at higher voltages more than 270 V.
Commercially available 4N aluminum plates were ultrasonically degreased and electrochemically polished. The pretreated aluminum specimen was placed parallel to a platinum plate as the cathode in a 0.3 M etidronic acid solution (volume: 150-555 mL) at 293 K using an electrochemical cell (inner diameter: 55-105 mm), then anodized under a linear voltage sweep at 0.1 Vs-1and constant voltage of 260-280 V for up to 6 h. The effect of a) the surface area of the platinum cathode (6.28-624 mm2), b) distance between two electrodes (50-90 mm), and c) stirring rate (300-900 rpm) on the anodizing behavior was investigated. The anodized specimens were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
The oxide burning voltages were measured by anodizing in etidronic acid under various operating conditions by the linear voltage sweep method. The burning voltage was unchanged with the surface area of the platinum cathode increased, whereas increased with the stirring rate of the etidronic acid solution due to the efficient Joule heat removal. In addition, the burning voltage increased with decreasing distance between two electrodes at the same stirring rate, because of the higher flow velocity of the solution. As a result, steady-state anodizing can be achieved in etidronic acid at the higher voltage of 270-280 V. Figure 1 shows SEM images of the dimple array formed on the aluminum surface via anodizing at 270 V and 280 V for 6 h. A larger porous alumina measuring 665-726 nm in interpore distance was successfully fabricated via anodizing under the optimum operating condition.

Figure 1
Effect of Trace Moisture on the Corrosion of Commercial Alloys in Molten LiCl-KCl
Authors: Selmi Thomas , Moore Craig , Chidambaram Dev 
Published: December 2024

The corrosivity of molten halide salts is increased by the presence of moisture in the salts. Moisture impurities can form hydroxides, oxides, oxyhalides, and hydrogen halide acids which can affect the corrosion rate of alloys in the salt. Corrosion tests using commercial alloys were performed in salts containing differing amounts of moisture to quantify this effect. In addition to corrosion data, surface characterization using X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy was performed to fully characterize the corrosion products and the deleterious effects of the moisture impurity in the molten salt. Results from these studies will be presented.
This work was funded by DOE under grant DE-NE0009370 and DE-EE0009822 and ARPA-e under DE-AR0001697.
Kelvin Probe Techniques in Corrosion Science: Probing Reactivity with Spatial Resolution
Authors: Rohwerder Michael 
Published: December 2024

More than 30 years after the introduction of the Kelvin Probe technique into corrosion research by Stratmann et al. [1, 2], Kelvin Probe techniques such as Scanning Kelvin Probe Microscopy (SKP) or Scanning Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy (SKPFM) are now quite routinely applied in the corrosion community. If the Kelvin probe is suitably calibrated, it allows to measure localized electrode/corrosion potentials [3]. Some main applications are for studying delamination of organic coatings and ion migration [2, 4, 5], mapping of hydrogen distribution [6], or characterizing potential differences on the surface of materials for assessing the risk of formation of Galvanic elements on the surface [7]. Besides such experiments where maps of the electrode potential are obtained, it is also possible to obtain meaningful information about the localized electrochemical activity, such as reaction kinetics of ORR, for instance [8]. There are different variants of how to use Kelvin Probe-based techniques to assess the activity of localized Galvanic coupling and also to monitor for instance the degree of inhibition of ORR by released inhibitors, such as Zn2+ [9]. In this presentation further and more recent examples will be presented.
[1] S.G. Yee, R.A. Oriani, M. Stratmann, J. Electrochem. Soc. 138 (1991) 55-62
[2] R. Feser, M. Stratmann. Materials and Corrosion 42 (1991) 187-195
[3] R. Hausbrand, M. Sratmann, M. Rohwerder, J. Electrochem. Soc. 155 (2008) C369-C379

[4] C. Senoz, M. Rohwerder, Electrochim. Acta 56 (2011) 9588-9595
[5] J. M. Prabhakar, A. de Vooys, M. Rohwerde, Npj Materials Degradation 6 (2022) 76
[6] S. Evers, C. Senoz, M. Rohwerder, Science and Technology of Advanced Materials 14 (2013) 014201
[7] P. Schmutz, G.S. Frankel, J. Electrochem. Soc. 145 (1998) 2295-2306
[8] X. K. Zhong, et al., Chemelectrochem 8 (2021) 712-718
[9] R. Krieg et al., Corros. Sci. 65 (2012) 119-127
In-Situ Non-Destructive Corrosion Monitoring
Authors: Seisdedos Gonzalo , Prisbrey Milo Guy , Vakhlamov Pavel , Pantea Cristian , Davis Eric Sean , Rockward Tommy 
Published: December 2024

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) frequently utilize metallic bipolar plates because they are easy to manufacture, possess excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, and have strong mechanical properties. However, the acidic environment within fuel cells can be corrosive to the metallic bipolar plate, which can gradually degrade its surface. This corrosion-induced degradation causes a reduction in performance over time due to decreased electrical conductivity, reduced mechanical integrity, and contamination of the electrolyte. Current corrosion characterization methods in bipolar plates involve lab-type equipment and cannot be performed while the fuel cell is in operation, decreasing their feasibility and practicality. Therefore, having the capability to characterize the corrosive state of the bipolar plate in real time is essential to reduce operational and maintenance costs while ensuring adequate performance of the fuel cell.
A customized in-situ characterization method using ultrasound was utilized to assess the quality of the surface of a titanium bipolar plate while being exposed to a minute amount of sulfuric acid solution. Potentiostatic and potentiodynamic conditions at various temperatures (30-80 ºC) were tested to simulate the PEMFC operating environment. Corrosion was detected and monitored as it was induced on the surface of the bipolar plate. This non-destructive method is not only useful for characterizing the degradation of bipolar plates, but it can also help understand the corrosion dynamics of different materials at varying operating conditions.
Fabrication of Alumina Membrane Filters with Framework
Authors: Yanagishita Takashi , Boushi Youta 
Published: December 2024

Membrane filters are becoming increasingly important because of their wide range of applications. Precise control of the pore size is essential for precise separation using membrane filters. In addition, a high solution permeability is required for efficient filtration. We previously reported that a large alumina membrane filter with a high density of pores and uniform diameter can be obtained by detaching anodic porous alumina from Al substrates by two-layer anodization using concentrated sulfuric acid [1]. Using this method, the pore size and thickness of the resulting alumina membrane can be controlled by adjusting the preparation conditions, making it possible to produce alumina membrane filters suitable for various applications. However, the resulting alumina membrane filters have a nanohole array structure with cylindrical pores, which makes it difficult to achieve efficient filtration because the solution permeability deteriorates as the thickness of the membrane increases. On the other hand, reducing the membrane thickness to improve the solution permeability results in the deterioration of the mechanical durability. Therefore, alumina membrane filters have a problem in that they cannot achieve both solution permeability and mechanical durability.
In this report, we describe the preparation of membrane filters with a structure consisting of a thin filter layer formed at the openings of a thick framework that serves as the support layer. The structure of the membrane filter proposed in this study allows the mechanical strength of the membrane to be reinforced by a thick framework and the filter layer to be thin. This allows the membrane filter to achieve a high permeability and mechanical strength, which is a problem with conventional ordered alumina through-pore membranes.
Anodic porous alumina, consisting of a thick framework and a thin filter layer, was prepared by selective etching of anodic porous alumina with a resist mask and re-anodization [2]. Finally, an alumina membrane with a framework was fabricated by detaching porous alumina from the Al substrate via two-layer anodization using concentrated sulfuric acid. The framework structure can be controlled by changing the resist pattern formed on the anodic porous alumina. The thicknesses of the filter and framework layers can also be controlled by adjusting the anodization time. The results of the water permeation measurements using the obtained alumina membrane filter confirmed that it exhibited high permeation performance. The membrane filter with the framework obtained in this study is expected to efficiently separate and filter various substances, such as microplastics, viruses, and bacteria.
References
[1] T. Yanagisihta and H. Masuda, Electrochim. Acta, 184, 80 (2015).
[2] Y. Boushi and T. Yanagishita, Langmuir, 40, 5278 (2024).