Dear Tesfaye A. Geleta ,

My answer may be too late but it may benefit the other researchers.

In order to give the give precise answer to this question one has to characterize the effect of the inclusion of carbon particles in Zinc Oxide as an lelctron transport layer.

It may be that the inclusion pf the carbon as a conducting material leads to a mismatch in the energy levels between the die and the ZO.

But I think the effect may come from the the carbon may act as a good absorber of the light reducing the useful light that can reach the active die material.

So, it can reduce the collection of the electrons as anETL and or reduce the light reaching the active region.

Please comment on my answer?

Best wishes

Tesfaye A. Geleta ,

This link leads to some bits of information, especially in the list of articles that cited the targeted article, which should, I hope, be of some help to you in resolving the issues indicated in your ResearchGate discussion thread question, which is rather complicated:

Article Carbon Dots as Co-sensitizers in Dye Sensitized Solar Cell a...

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ARTICLE: Carbon Dots as Cosensitizers in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells and Fluorescence Chemosensors for 2,4,6-Trinitrophenol Detection Anindita Bora, Kiranjyoti Mohan, and Swapan Kumar Dolui* Cite this: Ind. Eng. Chem. Res. 2019, 58, 51, 22771–22778

Publication Date: December 2, 2019 https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.iecr.9b05056 Copyright © 2019 American Chemical Society

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Abstract 📷Carbon dots (CDs) are a unique class of fluorescent nanomaterials, whose emissions can be tuned by manipulating the reaction conditions of their formation. Herein, we report a facile solvothermal route for producing CDs with tunable properties by employing N,N-dimethylformamide as the solvent medium. Using completely green carbon sources, two types of CDs are synthesized: citric acid produces green emitting CDs (G-CDs) while gallic acid produces blue emitting CDs (B-CDs). The optical analysis of the G-CDs suggests their application as cosensitizers along with the N719 dye in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Following this, the effect of G-CDs in DSSCs was studied and a photoconversion efficiency of 6.9% was extracted from the device. Meanwhile, the B-CDs produced from gallic acid are hydrophobic in nature and their blue-colored emission is quenched in the vicinity of 2,4,6-trinitriphenol in less than 1 min with a limit of detection of 0.75 μM.Supporting Information The Supporting Information is available free of charge at https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.iecr.9b05056. Quantum yield measurement of CDs, CV of G-CDs, excitation wavelength dependence of CDs, dynamic light scattering and XRD patterns of CDs, sensing of 2,4-DNP and p-NP, UV–vis spectra of N719 dye, TNP, 2,4-DNP, and p-NP, and KSV and correlation values of different analytes (PDF)ie9b05056_si_001.pdf (1.24 MB) Terms & Conditions Most electronic Supporting Information files are available without a subscription to ACS Web Editions. Such files may be downloaded by article for research use (if there is a public use license linked to the relevant article, that license may permit other uses). Permission may be obtained from ACS for other uses through requests via the RightsLink permission system: http://pubs.acs.org/page/copyright/permissions.html.Cited By This article is cited by 11 publications.Andrew Kim, Jatis Kumar Dash, Pawan Kumar, Rajkumar Patel. Carbon-Based Quantum Dots for Photovoltaic Devices: A Review. ACS Applied Electronic Materials 2022, 4 (1) , 27-58. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsaelm.1c00783 Tesfaye Abebe Geleta, Toyoko Imae. Nanocomposite Photoanodes Consisting of p-NiO/n-ZnO Heterojunction and Carbon Quantum Dot Additive for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells. ACS Applied Nano Materials 2021, 4 (1) , 236-249. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsanm.0c02547 Rina Su, Jie Shi, Yuan Pu, Jie-Xin Wang, Dan Wang, Jian-Feng Chen. Synthesis of Ultrasmall and Monodisperse Selenium-Doped Carbon Dots from Amino Acids for Free Radical Scavenging. Industrial & Engineering Chemistry Research 2020, 59 (38) , 16876-16883. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.iecr.0c03402 Habtamu Fekadu Etefa, Toyoko Imae, Masatoshi Yanagida. Enhanced Photosensitization by Carbon Dots Co-adsorbing with Dye on p-Type Semiconductor (Nickel Oxide) Solar Cells. ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces 2020, 12 (16) , 18596-18608. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsami.0c02413 X. Jiao, H. Li, X. Cheng. Cellulose-based fluorescent macromolecular sensors and their ability in 2, 4, 6-trinitrophenol detection. Materials Today Chemistry 2021, 22 , 100615. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mtchem.2021.100615 A M Mahmudul Hasan, Md. Akib Hasan, Atek Reza, Md. Mominul Islam, Md. Abu Bin Hasan Susan. Carbon dots as nano-modules for energy conversion and storage. Materials Today Communications 2021, 29 , 102732. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mtcomm.2021.102732 Chu-Ming Pang, Xi-Ying Cao, Ying Xiao, Shi-He Luo, Qi Chen, Yong-Jun Zhou, Zhao-Yang Wang. N-alkylation briefly constructs tunable multifunctional sensor materials: Multianalyte detection and reversible adsorption. iScience 2021, 24 (10) , 103126. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.isci.2021.103126 Xiaoliang Hao, Shujuan Dai, Jing Wang, Zhigang Fang. Synthesis of blue fluorescent carbon dots and their application in detecting mercury and iodine based on “off–on” mode. Luminescence 2021, 36 (3) , 721-732. https://doi.org/10.1002/bio.3993 Melis Özge Alaş, Rükan Genç. Carbon nanodot integrated solar energy devices. 2021,,, 497-535. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-12-821592-0.00017-0 Jwaher M. AlGhamdi, Shorooq AlOmar, Mohammed A. Gondal, Redhwan Moqbel, Mohamed A. Dastageer. Enhanced efficiency of dye co-sensitized solar cells based on pulsed-laser-synthesized cadmium-selenide quantum dots. Solar Energy 2020, 209 , 108-117. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.solener.2020.08.091 Tesfaye Abebe Geleta, Toyoko Imae. Influence of Additives on Zinc Oxide-Based Dye Sensitized Solar Cells. Bulletin of the Chemical Society of Japan 2020, 93 (4) , 611-620. https://doi.org/10.1246/bcsj.20200001

SOURCE LINK: Article Carbon Dots as Co-sensitizers in Dye Sensitized Solar Cell a...

Tesfaye A. Geleta ,

This is an interesting very recent scientific research article you might like to consult: Article Dye-sensitized solar cell using nickel sulfide-reduced graph...

"📷 Chemistry Communications

Volume 135, January 2022, 109086

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Dye-sensitized solar cell using nickel sulfide-reduced graphene oxide counter electrode: Effect of sulphur content Short communication

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S.A.Salleh, M.Y.A.Rahman, T.H.T.Aziz

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https://doi.org/10.1016/j.inoche.2021.109086Get rights and content

Highlights

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Influence on sulphur content on the properties of NiS-rGO has been investigated.

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Effect of sulphur content on the performance of DSSC using NiS-rGO counter electrode has also been investigated.

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The sample has been prepared via modified Hummers’s method assisted with spin coating technique.

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The cell with the NiS-rGO CE prepared with 1.20 M thiourea yielded the highest η of 1.42%.

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This is because this cell has the lowest Rb, Rct and the highest reduction current (J).

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The findings of this work show that NiS-rGO is able to substitute platinum as CE of DSSC.

Abstract

The influence on sulphur content in term of thiourea (TU) concentration on the properties of nickel sulphide (NiS)-reduced graphene oxide (rGO) has been reported in this paper. The effect of sulphur content on the performance of dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) using NiS-rGO counter electrode (CE) has also been investigated. The source of sulphur is TU. The sample has been prepared via modified Hummers’s method assisted with spin coating technique. The cell using NiS-rGO CE prepared with 1.20 M TU yielded the highest power conversion efficiency (η) of 1.42%. This is due to this cell has the lowest series resistance (Rb) and charge transfer resistance at the interface of NiS-rGO CE/electrolyte (Rct) with the value of 0.44 and 4.09 Ω, respectively. It is also due to the sample with 1.20 M TU owns the highest reduction current (J). The finding of this work reveals that NiS-rGO is able to substitute platinum as CE for DSSC.

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Keywords

Counter electrode

Dye-sensitized solar cells

Nickel sulphide

Reduced graphene oxide

Thiourea

1. Introduction Dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) comprises of three key components, namely, photoanode, redox couple electrolyte and counter electrode (CE). CE serves as a catalyst for reduction of triiodide (I3-)/iodide (I-) at the interface of CE/electrolyte. (I-) is then captured by oxidized dye molecules to be regenerated to dye molecules at ground state. The other role of CE is to accept electrons from external circuit to be captured by triiodide for catalytic activity. To produce high power conversion efficiency (η) of the device, CE should possesses several excellent properties such as low bulk resistance, low charge transfer resistance at CE/electrolyte interface and high reduction current to ensure high catalytic activity. Platinum (Pt) has widely been applied as a standard CE material for DSSC since it has high electronic conductivity, high catalytic activity and high durability against redox electrolyte species. Nevertheless, Pt is inappropriate for large scale cell fabrication since it is very expensive material. To overcome this major issue, researchers working on DSSC attempt utilizing several types of material such as alloy, carbon based material and graphene based material as replacement for Pt. They discovered that reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was a very suitable material for replacing Pt since it is cheap, has a high electronic conductivity and high catalytic activity which are comparable to those of Pt. Apart from application in DSSC, rGO has been applied in various fields such as ozone-sensor [1], photo-catalyst [2], water treatment [3], piezoresisitic sensor [4] and photocatalytic water splitting [5].In 2014, Liu et al. reported the application of rGO as the CE in DSSC. rGO was prepared on a fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO substrate by screen-printing technique and underwent annealing treatment and as a result, the η of 5.19% was produced [6]. In 2015, Ho and Wang reported the preparation of GO from a flake-type of graphite powder which was then reduced to rGO sheets via thermal reduction method. The DSSC using rGO CE were developed and resulted in the η of 3.4%, 69% lower than that of the device using Pt CE that was 5.75 [7]. Nagavolu et al. 2016 attempted GO and rGO CE in the devices, demonstrated the η of 3.4 and 3.96%, respectively. The device with rGO CE owns higher catalytic activity and lower Rct at the CE/electrolyte interface than those of the device with GO [8]. Suriani et al. 2017 has prepared (TC14) surfactant assisted rGO as a CE in DSSC. It was found that the DSSC utilized TC14-rGO CE yielded the η of 0.828%, which was higher than that of the device with commercially available SDS surfactant assisted rGO CE [9]. Chu et al. 2019 reported the use of rGO on prepared ITO/PEN substrate by a commercial laser scribed DVD burner as CE for DSSC. The cell based on rGO CE yielded the η of 2.07% [10].In order to further improve the electrical and catalytic properties of rGO and consequently enhance the η of the cell, the rGO has been modified in order to form the composite structure with other materials such as conducting polymer-rGO composite [11], carbon nanotube (CNT)-rGO composite [12], metal sulfide-rGO composite [13], metal-rGO composite [14] and alloy-rGO composite [15]. Sun et al. 2013 reported the use of polyaniline (M−PANI)-rGO composite as a CE of the device which was prepared via oxidative polymerization of aniline by MnO2 on rGO sheets under acidic conditions. C-PANI–rGO hybrid has also been prepared via conventional polymerization using (NH4)2S2O8 as the oxidant labelled as a control sample to M−PANI@rGO. The η of 5.62% was produced from the cell with C-PANI@rGO CE while the corresponding η of 6.15% was obtained for the cell with M−PANI@rGO. This η was comparable to that of the cell using Pt CE with the value of 6.73% [11].In 2014, Yeh and his group prepared a new core–shell composite of multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)/rGO via modified microwave-assisted with chemical reduction technique. Due to the outstanding catalytic activity of the MWCNT/rGO at the interface of CE/electrolyte, the η of 6.91% was achieved, while the η of 4.48% and 5.93% were produced from the device utilizing the bare rGO and pristine MWCNT, respectively. The η of the device with the composite was found to be comparable to that of the device with Pt CE which was 7.26% [12]. While in 2015, SnS2/rGO nanocomposite has been prepared by Yang and his group. As a result, the DSSC with SnS2/rGO composite CE showed the η of 7.12%, which was higher than that of SnS2 and rGO-based cells with the η of 5.58% and 3.73%, respectively. The η of the device using the composite was slightly higher than that of the device with Pt CE that was 6.79%. This is due to the composite possesses higher electronic conductivity and catalytic activity for faster reduction rate of triiodide to iodide compared with those of SnS2 and rGO alone [13].In 2018, Tsai and his group reported the use of Mn-rGO composite as a CE in DSSC. The device yielded the highest η of 7.47%, which was higher than that of the device using Pt CE. This is due the device with Mn/rGO CE had higher electronic conductivity and catalytic activity than that of the device with Pt CE [14]. In 2019, Ghasemi and his co-workers prepared Cu-Pt/rGO composite on FTO substrate via electrophoretic deposition method for use as a CE of DSSC. The device with Cu-Pt/rGO CE performed higher PCE compared with that of the device with rGO CE but lower than that of the device with Pt/rGO CE. The η of the device using the composite CE was 4.30%. The device with the composite CE performed higher η than the device with pure rGO CE due to it had lower Rct and higher catalytic activity than those of rGO- based device [15].Metal sulfide compound have been applied in photoelectrochemical cell [16], thin film solar cell [17] and quantum dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) [18]. In this work, NiS-rGO has been prepared and employed as a CE in DSSC. The new idea of this work is the preparation of the sample via simple technique, namely, hydrothermal assisted with spin coating technique and the study of the effect of TU content on the performance of the cell. The primary objective of this work is to investigate the effect of sulphur content at the fixed content of nickel and rGO on the η of the device using NiS-rGO CE. The secondary objective to study the effect of sulphur content on the properties of the sample such as morphology, elemental composition, structure, optical transmission and structural defect.

2. Materials and methods 2.1. Materials The raw materials are ITO substrate (Yingkou Photoelectrics), acetone (HmbG-Chemicals), ethanol (HmbG Chemicals), graphite flakes (Sigma Aldrich), sodium nitrate (NaNO3) (Sigma Aldrich), 98% sulphuric acid (H2SO4) (Emsure), potassium permanganate (KMnO4) (Ajax Chemicals), deionized water (DI) (Decon), 30% hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) (Emsure), hydrochloric acid (HCl) (HmbG-Chemicals), NiCl2 powder (Sigma Aldrich), thiourea (TU) powder (Sigma–Aldrich), titanium (IV) oxide powder (Sigma–Aldrich), poly(ethylenglycol) (Sigma–Aldrich), triton-X 100 (Sigma–Aldrich), absolute ethanol (HmbG Chemicals), N719 dye powder (Sigma–Aldrich) and iodolyte electrolyte (Greatcell Solar). 2.2. NiS-rGO preparation and characterization GO sheet was prepared using Hummer’s method [19]. Firstly, 2 g graphite flakes and 1 g of NaNO3 were dissolved into 200 ml of 98% H2SO4 and stirred for 30 min at a speed 600 rpm at room temperature. Then, 6 g of KMnO4 was slowly added to the mixture solution within 30 min at the same temperature, making the suspension turned to dark green. The solution was then stirred for 3 hrs and 30 min. The suspension turned to dark brown slurry. The suspension was then further diluted to 300 ml of DI water, producing white smoke and continued stirring for another 2 hrs. After that, the suspension was treated with 160 ml of H2O2 to stop the reaction and stirred for 15 min. Addition of H2O2 made the suspension turned to bright yellow. The suspension was then washed with 5% of H2SO4, 5% H2O2 and 37% HCl and DI water three times by centrifugation. Lastly, brown dispersion was dried in a vacuum oven for 24 hrs at 80 °C.

NiS-rGO counter electrode was prepared using spin coating technique. The source of sulphur (S) is thiourea (TU) [20]. 0.1 g of GO sheet was ultrasonicated in 10 ml deionized water for 1 hr. 0.06 M NiCl2 and 0.45 M TU which served as sulphur precursor for NiS, respectively were mixed into 5 ml DI water. Both GO and NiS solutions were sonicated separately for 30 min followed by stirring for 3 hrs. The GO solution was deposited on the conductive side of ITO substrate three times followed by NiS solution in order to obtain the NiS-GO film by spin coating technique at 1500 rpm for 30 s with pre-heating at 100 °C for 10 min. The NiS-GO sample was then annealed at 350 °C under argon atmosphere for 1 hr in order to reduce to NiS-GO to NiS-rGO. These procedures were repeated with various concentrations of TU ranging from 0.45 to 1.50 M at 0.15 M interval. The pure rGO was prepared with the same procedure without adding NiCl2 and TU. The surface morphology and elemental composition of the sample with various concentrations of TU were examined by FESEM and EDX, respectively. The phase structure of pure NiS and NiS-rGO samples was characterized by XRD. The optical transmittance of the samples was determined by UV–Vis spectrometer. The structural defect were examined by Raman spectroscopy. 2.3. DSSC fabrication Doctor blade technique was used to prepare TiO2 films which serve as photo-anode in the device. 1 g of titanium (IV) oxide (P25), 0.5 ml of poly(ethylenglycol) (PEG) and 2 ml triton-x were added into 1 ml absolute ethanol. The mixture was then stirred for 1 hr at a speed of 1500 rpm, producing white slurry paste. Using a capillary pipette, few drops of TiO2 paste were then dropped onto the conductive side of ITO substrate. The formed TiO2 films were preheated at 100 °C for 15 min using a hot plate, turning the white paste to brownish colour. Eventually, the samples were baked off and annealed in a furnace (model Thermcraft) for 1 hr at 400 °C to burn out the organics material.11.9 mg of N719 dye powder was then dissolved into 20 ml of absolute ethanol to prepare 0.5 mM N719 dye solution. Then, the TiO2 films were immersed in the dye solution for 24 hrs at room temperature in order to coat the films with the dye. The prepared NiS-rGO with various TU concentrations were used as counter electrode in the device. The iodolyte electrolyte solution was injected in between the photo-anode and the counter electrode. The area of the device under light illumination from tungsten halogen lamp was 0.23 cm2. The performance study of the device in air was carried out by observing current–voltage (J-V) curves obtained from Keithley 2401 instrument in dark and under illumination of 100 mWcm−2 light. The J-V measurement for each device sample was measured three times. The series and charge transfer resistance at the interface of NiS-rGO/electrolyte and carrier lifetime were determined by electrochemical impedance (EIS) measurement under illumination of 100 mWcm−2 light. The reduction current density (J) was determined from the cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurement. The incident-photon conversion efficiency (IPCE) was determined from ICPE measurement at the intensity of 100 mWcm−2 light.

3. Results and discussion Fig. 1 illustrates the FESEM images for NiS-rGO sample with various TU concentrations. At 0.90 M thiourea, the sample possesses white strips belonging to rGO. This phenomenon is also observed in our previous works reporting the morphology of rGO [21], Ag-rGO [22], [23] and NiS-rGO [24], respectively. Also, the morphology of the sample is described by black NiS rumples residing on ITO surface. This phenomenon is described in our previous work on NiPd-rGO [25]. When TU concentration is increased to 1.05 M, the white strip becomes grey and its size becomes smaller than that of the sample prepared with 0.90 M TU. When the concentration is further increased to 1.20 M, the number of grey strip becomes lesser than that of the sample prepared with 1.05 M TU. At 1.35 M TU, the grey strips disappear and the agglomerate rumples are observed in the FESEM image. When the concentration is finally increased to 1.50 M, the agglomerate rumples become denser than that of the sample prepared with 1.35 M TU. 📷Download : Download high-res image (1MB) Download : Download full-size image Fig. 1. Top-view of FESEM images for NiS-rGO with various TU concentrations. Magnification: 10000 × . Bar scale: 1000 nm.Through the EDX spectra shown in Fig. 2, the weight percentage of elements that present in NiS-rGO sample with various TU concentrations are obtained and presented in Table 1. According to the spectra, the elements such as Ni, S, C and O present in the sample. Ni and S originate from NiCl2 and TU precursors, respectively. While, C and O originate from rGO and ITO substrate. According to Table 1, the wt.% of S is found to increase with TU concentration. However this trend is not seen for Ni in which its wt.% neither decreases nor increases with TU concentration. Nevertheless, the wt.% of C increases with the concentration until the optimum concentration of 1.05 M. However, this trend is not observed for O in which its wt.% neither decreases nor increases with TU concentration. 📷Download : Download high-res image (301KB) Download : Download full-size image Fig. 2. EDX spectra for NiS-rGO with various TU concentrations.

Table 1. Weight percentage of elements in NiS-rGO with various TU concentrations.

Concentration (M)C (wt.%)O (wt.%)Ni (wt.%)S (wt.%)0.9021.950.922.94.31.0579.67.62.110.71.2052.322.811.913.01.3552.420.713.613.31.5056.917.111.714.3The XRD patterns of NiS-rGO with various TU concentrations and that of pure NiS are depicted in Fig. 3. The low peak at 22.0° corresponding with the (3 1 1) plane belongs to rGO [21]. The NiS peak is identified at 46.0° that correspond with the (1 1 1) plane but with slightly smaller intensity than that of rGO [26]. The ITO peaks are identified at the diffraction angles at 30.8, 35.8, 38.0, 51.2 and 61.0° [13].The ITO peak intensity at 30.8, 51.2 and 61.0° are almost similar. The ITO peak intensity at 35.8° increases with TU concentration until the concentration of 1.05 M and then decreases. The low intensity peak of ITO at 38.0° is observed to be the same for 0.90 and 1.05 M and then drastically increases at the concentration of 1.20 M. The peak intensity for this concentration is almost similar to that of 1.35, 1.50 M and NiS samples. The peak intensity of rGO is quite similar with the samples prepared at the other concentrations. The peak of NiS is only observed in the sample prepared with 0.90 and 1.05 M TU and then disappears at higher concentrations. 📷Download : Download high-res image (339KB) Download : Download full-size image Fig. 3. XRD patterns of NiS-rGO with various TU concentrations.The UV–Vis optical transmission spectra for the sample prepared with various sulphur contents in term of TU concentrations are displayed in Fig. 4. The transmission is significantly affected by the sulphur content as evidenced by the spectra. The transmittance is high which is in the range 65–110%, lying in the visible region. The transmittance of 0.90, 1.05, 1.20, 1.35 and 1.50 M samples are 68, 93, 110, 69 and 87%, respectively at the wavelength of 400 nm. In the ascending order, the sample prepared with 0.90 M TU possesses the lowest transmittance followed by the sample prepared with 1.35, 1.50, 1.05 and 1.20 M TU. 📷Download : Download high-res image (207KB) Download : Download full-size image Fig. 4. UV–Vis transmission spectra of NiS-rGO with various TU concentrations.

Fig. 5 depicts the Raman spectra for NiS-rGO sample with various TU concentrations. According to the spectra, all samples display the peak for rGO. Carbon functional groups comprising of carbon atoms in rGO are detected in Raman shift at the peak of 1344, 1585 and 2679 cm−1 corresponding with D, G dan 2D, respectively [27]. D band is due to the structural defect or interfence of C atom in graphene layer. G band is concerned with vibration in sp2 of carbon atom and 2D band is concerned with second order of two phonons [28]. According to Fig. 5, D band is taller than G band, signifying that sp2 bond is broken and forms new sp3 bond [29]. The ID/IG and I2D/IG ratios as a function of TU concentration are illustrated in Table 2. 📷Download : Download high-res image (242KB) Download : Download full-size image Fig. 5. Raman spectra for NiS-rGO with various TU concentrations.Table 2. Raman shift and ID/IG ratio with various TU concentrations.Concentration (M)NiSD bandG band2D bandID/IGI2D/IGshift (cm−1)intensityshift (cm−1)intensityshift (cm−1)intensityshift (cm−1)intensity0.9046729.881340301.321581237.42268237.551.270.161.0547326.831346344.631585290.35269227.931.170.101.2046528.391344181.111589138.81267127.941.300.201.3546523.861346339.141587270.29269024.411.250.091.5046759.311344274.791583212.70265968.701.290.32According to Table 2, the ID/IG ratio changes with TU concentration and owns the optimum value at the concentration of 1.20 M. This result indicates that this sample possesses the highest defect concentration to describe the best interaction between NiS dan rGO. Also, the increase in the ID/IG ratio also indicates the existence in the interference at graphene sheet which promotes to new structural defect in graphene formation. While, the I2D/IG ratio also varies with TU concentration and has the highest value at the highest concentration that is 1.50 M.

The dark current curves of the device utilizing NiS-rGO CE prepared with various sulphur contents are illustrated in Fig. 6. The devices show rectification property since the current in reverse bias is about four times higher than that in forward bias. However, the leak current which is also the current in reverse bias is four times higher than the forward current that generates the power in the devices. This phenomena leads to high power dissipated in the device resulting in low fill factor (FF) and consequently low power conversion efficiency (η) as displayed in Table 3 [30]. According to Fig. 6, the cell using the CE prepared with 0.60 M TU owns the lowest leak current, followed by the cell applying the CE prepared with 0.45, 1.50, 0.90, 0.75, 1.05, 1.20 and 1.35 M TU in the ascending order. According to the leak current results, it is concluded that the concentration of TU influences the leak current. Nevertheless, the magnitude of forward current is quite similar in all devices, indicating that the forward current is not significantly affected by TU concentration. 📷Download : Download high-res image (205KB) Download : Download full-size image Fig. 6. I-V curves in dark of the devices utilizing NiS-rGO CE with various TU concentrations.Table 3. Photovoltaic parameters of DSSC utilizing NiS-rGO with various TU concentrations.

Concentration (M)Jsc (mA/cm2)Voc (V)FFη (%)0.454.02 ± 1.750.72 ± 0.020.210.61 ± 0.250.603.67 ± 1.290.78 ± 0.090.220.63 ± 0.220.754.45 ± 2.010.72 ± 0.170.210.67 ± 0.320.905.48 ± 1.940.73 ± 0.010.180.72 ± 0.231.054.91 ± 2.280.78 ± 0.010.321.23 ± 0.581.205.55 ± 2.140.80 ± 0.020.321.42 ± 0.571.354.35 ± 1.780.77 ± 0.070.421.41 ± 0.631.505.01 ± 1.280.78 ± 0.050.220.86 ± 0.26The current–voltage (J-V) curves of the cells employing the CE with various sulphur contents are presented in Fig. 7. It is noticed that the shape of the curves of the cells with the CEs prepared with 0.45, 0.60, 0.75, 0.90 and 1.50 M TU has high slope indicating that these cells have higher internal resistance than that of the cells prepared with 1.05, 1.20 and 1.35 M TU. The shape of the curve for the device with 0.45, 0.60, 0.75, 0.90 and 1.50 M TU is similar to that of the device reported in [6], [31], [32], [33], [34]. While, the shape of the curve for the cell with 1.05, 1.20 and 1.35 M is the same as that of the cell reported in [35], [36], [37], [38], [39]. Such shape signifies that the photocurrent decreases slowly with the voltage as observed in Fig. 7. The photovoltaic parameters are extracted from Fig. 7 and illustrated in Table 3. According to Table 3, the power conversion efficiency (η) of the cell utilizing the CE prepared with 1.05, 1.20 and 1.35 M TU is higher than that of the cell with 0.45, 0.60, 0.75, 0.90 and 1.50 M TU. The η is found to increase with TU concentration until the concentration of 1.20 M. It is concluded that 1.20 M is the optimum concentration for the η. However, this trend is not seen in Jsc, Voc and FF. The highest η of 1.42% which is owned by the cell using the CE prepared with 1.20 M TU is caused by the lowest series resistance (Rs) and the lowest charge transfer resistance (Rct) at NiS-rGO/electrolyte interface as depicted in Table 4. 📷Download : Download high-res image (289KB) Download : Download full-size image Fig. 7. J-V curves under illumination of 100 mW cm−2 of the devices utilizing NiS-rGO with various TU concentrations.Table 4. EIS parameters of DSSC utilizing NiS-rGO with various TU concentrations.

Concentration (M)Rb (Ω)Rct (Ω)τ (ms)J (mA cm−2)0.9013.90171.640.0010.00131.053.4120.2915.260.000041.200.444.090.170.00131.350.8724.800.690.00041.5012.66360.614.940.0002The electrochemical impedance spectra (EIS) in form Nyquist plots for the Rs and Rct determination are shown in Fig. 8. The spectra show two semicircles in which the first semicircle denotes the Rct at the interface of CE/electrolyte and electrolyte/photo-anode. The second one represents the recombination resistance (Rcr) between electrons and holes at the interface of photo-anode/electrolyte. The Rcr for all devices are not determined since the shape of all second semicircles are incomplete. The Bode plots for the device with various sulphur contents are displayed in Fig. 9. All plots show one peak in lower frequency region which are then used to compute carrier lifetime (τ). The lifetime for all device samples are listed in Table 4. The lifetime is observed to be significantly affected by TU concentration but it neither varies in increasing nor decreasing trend with TU concentration. The longest τ belongs to the device with 1.05 M TU concentration and the lowest one is owned by the device with 0.90 M TU concentration. 📷Download : Download high-res image (169KB) Download : Download full-size image Fig. 8. Nyquist plots under illumination of 100 mW cm−2 of the devices with various TU concentrations. 📷Download : Download high-res image (223KB) Download : Download full-size image Fig. 9. Bode plots under illumination of 100 mWcm−2 of the devices utilizing NiS-rGO with various TU concentrations.

The cyclic voltammetry (CV) curves for the device utilizing the CE prepared with 1.05 and 1.50 M are shown in Fig. 10. The inset of Fig. 10 presents the CV curves for the device applying the CE prepared with 0.90, 1.20 and 1.50 M TU concentrations. Each curve show one peak at its lower part, indicating the reduction current generated as a result of reduction of triiodide to iodide at the interface of NiS-rGO CE/electrolyte. The reduction current (J) for all devices are illustrated in Table 4. According to the inset, the device with 1.20 M sample owns the largest generated power with the highest J as indicated in Table 4. Moreover, this device performs the highest η. Lastly, Fig. 11 displays the IPCE spectra for the devices with two best of η, applying1.20 and 1.35 M samples. It is noticed that the device with 1.20 M sample shows one peak at the wavelength of 375 nm. While the IPCE spectrum for the device with 1.35 M display two peaks, at 375 nm and 450 nm, respectively in the visible region. However, the IPCE for the device with 1.35 M sample is taken at 375 nm. The IPCE for the device with 1.20 and 1.35 M samples are 5.5 and 3.3%, respectively. This IPCE result is in line with the η illustrated in Table 3 since the device with 1.20 M sample owns higher η than that of the device with 1.35 M sample. The higher IPCE, the higher η. Generally, the IPCE for both devices are small telling us that their capability of converting photon into free electrons are low. This is one of the reason for low η that these two devices own. 📷Download : Download high-res image (241KB) Download : Download full-size image Fig. 10. CV curves of the devices utilizing NiS-rGO with various TU concentrations. Inset: CV curves for the device with 0.90, 1.20 and 1.50 M TU concentrations. 📷Download : Download high-res image (177KB) Download : Download full-size image Fig. 11. IPCE spectra of the devices with the two best PCEs.The highest η obtained from this work is 1.42%. Table 5 displays the performance comparison of the NiS-rGO based DSSC with those of the device employing various rGO CEs. According to the table, the η of the cell with NiS/rGO in this work is lower than that of the cell with various rGO CEs. This might be due to the Rct of the device fabricated in this work is higher than those reported in [11], [12], [13], [14], [15], [40], [41], leading to lower catalytic activity. However, it is higher than that produced from the NiS-rGO based cell fabricated in our previous work in which the highest η was 1.04% [24]. This might be due to the charge Rct of the device developed in this work is lower than that reported in [24], leading to lower catalytic activity. Also, according to Table 5, the cell employing NiS/rGO CE reported in [42] demonstrated the highest η than that of the cell with various rGO CEs. This might be due to this cell possessed the highest electronic conductivity and catalytic activity for triiodide/iodide reduction.Table 5. η of the DSSC with various rGO CEs.rGO based CEη (%)referencePAN/rGO6.15[11]MWCNT/rGO6.91[12]SnS2/rGO7.12[13]Mn/rGO7.47[14]Cu-Pt/rGO4.30[15]Ni-Pt/rGO6.14[40]CoNi/rGO6.75[41]NiS/rGO1.04[24]NiS/rGO9.25[42]NiS/rGO1.42this work

4. Conclusions NiS-rGO has been prepared via modified Hummers’s method assisted with spin coating technique and applied as CE in DSSC. The effect of TU concentration on performance of the DSSC has been investigated. The device applying NiS-rGO CE prepared with 1.20 M TU performed the highest η of 1.42%. This is due to this device owns the lowest Rb and Rct with the value of 0.44 and 4.09 Ω, respectively. It is also due to the sample prepared with 1.20 M TU has highest reduction current (J). The findings of this work pave the way for NiS-rGO as a replacement for Pt CE in DSSC.

Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper.

Acknowledgements This work was funded by Ministry of Higher Education, Malaysia via Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) under research grant FRGS/1/2019/STG02/UKM/02/1.

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Nanomaterials (Basel). 2017 Jun; 7(6): 130.Published online 2017 May 31. doi: 10.3390/nano7060130PMCID: PMC5485777PMID: 28561765Improving the Power Conversion Efficiency of Carbon Quantum Dot-Sensitized Solar Cells by Growing the Dots on a TiO2 Photoanode In Situ Quanxin Zhang,1 Geping Zhang,2 Xiaofeng Sun,1 Keyang Yin,1 and Hongguang Li1,*Hao-chung Kuo, Academic EditorAuthor information Article notes Copyright and License information Disclaimer

Supplementary Materials Associated Data Go to:Abstract Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) are highly promising since they can potentially solve global energy issues. The development of new photosensitizers is the key to fully realizing perspectives proposed to DSSCs. Being cheap and nontoxic, carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have emerged as attractive candidates for this purpose. However, current methodologies to build up CQD-sensitized solar cells (CQDSCs) result in an imperfect apparatus with extremely low power conversion efficiencies (PCEs). Herein, we present a simple strategy of growing carbon quantum dots (CQDs) onto TiO2 surfaces in situ. The CQDs/TiO2 hybridized photoanode was then used to construct solar cell with an improved PCE of 0.87%, which is higher than all of the reported CQDSCs adopting the simple post-adsorption method. This result indicates that an in situ growing strategy has great advantages in terms of optimizing the performance of CQDSCs. In addition, we have also found that the mechanisms dominating the performance of CQDSCs are different from those behind the solar cells using inorganic semiconductor quantum dots (ISQDs) as the photosensitizers, which re-confirms the conclusion that the characteristics of CQDs differ from those of ISQDs.

Keywords: carbon quantum dot, solar cell, sensitized, hydrothermal, power conversion efficiency

Go to:1. Introduction The worldwide energy crisis evokes an unprecedented enthusiasm for the development of an apparatus for efficient light-to-electricity conversion. Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), together with organic photovoltaics (OPVs), are generally considered two types of third-generation energy-harvesting devices. There is an enthusiasm for engineering the electrolytes, i.e., from non-aqueous systems to aqueous ones [1,2,3,4]. As another key component in DSSCs, the photosensitizer is responsible for light absorption and the subsequent electron-transfer reactions, and its quality thus determines the power conversion efficiency (PCE). Inorganic semiconductor quantum dots (ISQDs), such as CdS, CdSe, and PbS, represent an important class of photosensitizers. Compared to DSSCs employing Ru–polypyridine complexes or low-molecular-weight organic dyes as photosensitizers, ISQD-sensitized solar cells (ISQDSCs) are expected to have low costs and relatively high PCE [5,6]. A big disadvantage of ISQDSCs, however, is their intrinsic toxicity caused by the presence of heavy metal elements in ISQDs. Developing new types of quantum dots that are environmentally benign is necessary for further realizing the potential of this new branch of DSSCs.

In recent years, carbon quantum dots (CQDs), which are photoluminescent (PL) carbon nanomaterials that have spherical shapes and sizes below 10 nm, have received extensive attention due to their easy preparation and tunable PL properties [7]. More importantly, CQDs are nontoxic for both environment and biological systems, which is advantageous over ISQDs. Based on these virtues, CQDs exhibit great potential applications in various fields and have been used in bioimaging [8], ion detection [9,10], PL inks [11,12,13], and coatings for light-emitting diodes (LEDs) [14]. Attempts to integrate CQDs in photovoltaics have also been made [15,16,17]. Specifically in DSSCs, CQDs have been used as co-sensitizers together with ISQDs [18] or organic dyes [19], and the CQD-based solar cells were found to show superior performances.

Applying CQDs as the sole photosensitizer in DSSCs, compared to using CQDs as an additive in mixed photosensitizers, is more interesting but also more challenging. In a seminal work, Mirtchev et al. integrated TiO2 photoanode with CQDs obtained from acid dehydration of γ-butyrolactone, and a PCE of 0.13% was obtained [20]. Zhang et al. also reported the preparation of DSSCs using N-doped CQDs as photosensitizers, and the PCE was found to be the same as that reported by Mirtchev et al. (i.e., 0.13%) [21]. Briscoe et al. used three different types of biomass-derived CQDs as photosensitizers, which were hybridized with ZnO as photoanodes. However, the highest PCE of the solar cells is even lower (0.077%) [22]. Recently, Margraf et al. reported CQD-based DSSCs with a PCE of 0.24% [23]. They found that the pH value of the aqueous solution where CQDs and TiO2 photoanodes were integrated plays an important role in governing the performance of the solar cell, while extending the light absorption of CQDs towards longer wavelengths does not help. Wang et al. also prepared CQD-based DSSCs by integrating CQDs and TiO2 photoanodes in acetone. A PCE of 0.79% was obtained [24]. There are also research interests on edge-bound nanometer-size graphene pieces with lateral dimensions less than 100 nm termed graphene quantum dots (GQDs), which can be viewed as close relatives of CQDs. In this case, two works using GODs as photosensitizers in DSSCs have been presented. Yan et al. synthesized GQDs from small organic molecules, and integrated them with TiO2 photoanodes in a toluene/ethanol mixture [25]. The solar cell exhibits a considerable open-circuit voltage (VOC, 0.48 V) and fill factor (FF, 0.58). However, it suffers from low short-circuit current density (JSC, 0.2 mA/cm−2), which gives a final PCE of ~0.06%. Ji et al. prepared GQDs on TiO2 via a Scholl reaction from a preadsorbed polyphenylene precursor functionalized with surface anchoring groups, and a PCE of 0.87% was obtained [26], which is slightly higher compared to that reported for the solar cells sensitized by CQDs.It is clear that research on CQD-sensitized solar cells (CQDSCs) is still in its infancy. Although great efforts have been devoted as mentioned above, further improvement of the PCE is necessary. More importantly, the use of acetone in the preparation of the solar cell with the highest PCE reported to date (0.79%) [24] is not environmentally benign and is incompatible with the majority of the CQDs, which are water-soluble. On the other hand, the GQD-sensitized solar cells, though exhibiting a slightly higher PCE (0.87%) [26] than that of CQDSCs, suffer from multi-step, time-consuming synthesis of the photosensitizers, which will significantly raise the costs of resulting DSSCs.

big challenge causing the unsatisfactory PCE of CQDSCs is the low affinity between TiO2 (or ZnO) and CQDs. In previous studies, the CQDs were always synthesized first, followed by integration with the photoanode by post-adsorption [20,22,23,24,25,26] or hydrothermal treatment [21] in bulk solutions. This simple treatment leads to a poor adsorption of the CQDs onto the TiO2-coated photoanode. Herein, we provide a new engineering method for a CQD-based photoanode, where CQDs were grown in situ onto the TiO2 surface. We will show that, by using this strategy, the surface coverage of TiO2 by CQDs can be significantly improved, leading to an impressive performance of the solar cell.

Go to:2. Results and Discussion For the in situ growth of CQDs, the TiO2-coated fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) glass was vertically immersed in a 10 mL aqueous solution containing citric acid (CA, 0.5 mol·L−1) and ethanediamine (EDA, 0.5 mol·L−1). The system was then sealed in an autoclave and pyrolized at 180 °C for 24 h. After that, the as-prepared CQDs/TiO2 was rinsed with deionized water thoroughly and dried in air. Here, CA and EDA were selected as the precursors for CQD production because the synthetic procedures of CQDs from this combination have been well-established [13]. The CQDs/TiO2 hybridized photoanode (abbreviated to CQDs/TiO2 hereafter) appears as a dark-brown film (inset of Figure 1A), which is in sharp contrast to the control experiment where the TiO2 photoanodes were found to be only slightly colored if physical adsorption was applied. This indicates that, by adopting the in situ growth method, the amount of CQDs anchored on the photoanode has been significantly improved. From the UV-vis-NIR absorption spectra, it can be seen that CQDs/TiO2 exhibits extensive optical absorption throughout the visible and NIR regions, while the absorptions of CQDs alone are mainly located in the UV region (Figure 1A). PL spectra indicate that, after being integrated onto the TiO2 photoanode, the fluorescence of CQDs is quenched (Figure 1B). The shift of the absorption towards longer wavelengths and the fluorescence quenching of CQDs on the photoanode indicate a more compact arrangement of the dots in the film state. The lower emission intensity of CQDs on the photoanode compared to those in the bulk solution is also indicative of a lower recombination rate of the excitons, which is preferable when using the materials as photosensitizers [27].📷Figure 1(A) UV-vis-NIR absorption of as-prepared carbon quantum dots (CQDs) in water and CQDs/TiO2 on fluorine-doped tin oxide (FTO) glass. Insets are photos of the CQDs aqueous solution and CQDs/TiO2-coated photoanode; (B) PL spectra of CQDs in water and CQDs/TiO2 on FTO glass, excited at 440 nm; (C) FTIR spectra of solid CQDs, TiO2- and CQDs/TiO2-coated FTO glass; (D) XRD pattern of solid CQDs and CQDs/TiO2-coated FTO glass.

The changes in the optical properties of CQDs after being integrated with TiO2 might also be caused by the interactions between them. To test this possibility, FTIR measurements were carried out, as shown in Figure 1C. The peak at 1414 cm−1 assigned to the C–O stretching vibration for CQDs shifts to 1440 cm−1 in CQDs/TiO2, which could be caused by the interaction between CQDs and TiO2 [28]. Peaks at 1630 cm−1 and 3400 cm−1, which appear in both bare TiO2 and CQDs/TiO2, could be caused by vibrations of surface adsorbed water. From X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements shown in Figure 1D, mainly peaks related to anatase TiO2 can be detected (2θ: 25.1°, 38.1°, 47.9°) in CQDs/TiO2. CQDs alone only show a broad band centered around 25°, which indicates the low crystallinity of the synthesized CQDs.

The morphologies of the TiO2-coated photoanode before and after CQDs hybridization have been investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations. The TiO2 nanoparticles organized on FTO glass into a porous structure (Figure 2a). When CQDs were integrated with the TiO2-coated photoanode, the presence of CQDs can be confirmed (Figure 2b). Importantly, the TiO2 film remains porous after it is hybridized with CQDs without obvious pore blocking, which will facilitate the penetration of the electrolyte in the solar cell. To get further details, the CQD-sensitized photoanode was further checked by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observations (Figure 2c,d). It can be seen that the CQDs grown in situ on TiO2 surfaces have sizes of 2–6 nm, and most of them distribute evenly. The lack of severe aggregation highlights the advantage of the in situ growth method.

📷Figure 2(a,b) SEM images of TiO2-coated photoanode before and after in situ growth of CQDs, respectively. (c,d) TEM images in different magnifications of the CQDs/TiO2 photoanode.

To construct the solar cell, Cu2S on brass was selected as the counter electrode and polysulfide consisting of 1 mol·L−1 Na2S and 1 mol·L−1 S in aqueous solution was used as the electrolyte. The selection of this cell structure is in favor of comparison with previously reported CdS-sensitized solar cells [29] wherever necessary. An illustration of the cell structure is given in the inset of Figure 3A. The IPCE spectrum shown in Figure 3A matches the absorption spectrum of CQDs/TiO2, indicating that the photocurrent was generated via the photoexcitation of CQDs. From the JV curve, a JSC of 6.47 mA·cm−2, a VOC of 0.43 V, and an FF of 0.31 were obtained, which leads to a PCE of 0.87% (Figure 3B). To the best of our knowledge, this PCE is the highest reported efficiency for solar cells sensitized by both CQDs and GQDs (Table S1), which is mainly attributed to the impressively high JSC. As the CQDs were grown in situ, the high JSC could benefit from the improved contact between the CQDs and TiO2. Investigations on parallel-prepared cells indicated that JSC, VOC, and PCE of the cells are reproducible with variations less than 8%. To test the long-term stability of the solar cell, it was stored at room temperature in the dark for up to 14 days. No significant decrease of both PCE and FF could be observed (Figure 3C), revealing the good stability of the cell.

📷Figure 3(A) IPCE spectra and (B) JV curve of the CQDSC. Inset of (A) shows the structure of the solar cell. (C) Variation of the FF and PCE of the CQDSC as a function of storage time. (D) EIS results of the CdS-sensitized solar cell and CQDSC. The symbols are experimental results, while the solid lines are fitted curves based on the equivalent circuit developed previously [26].We noticed that the FF of our solar cell is lower than that of previously reported cells (Table S1). As researchers tend to use different types of CQDs and the structure of the solar cells also varies, a strict comparison between different CQDSCs reported to date could be difficult. Previously, using the same cell structure, we have constructed a CdS-sensitized solar cell [29], which is selected for comparison with the CQDSC reported in this work for further insight. The JSC, VOC, FF, and PCE of the CdS-sensitized solar cell have been determined to be 6.57 mA·cm−2, 0.435 V, 0.53, and 1.52%, respectively. Again, it is found that the FF of the CQDSC is lower. It is known that the performance of the solar cell is heavily influenced by its internal charge transfer.

To find out the reason for the relatively low FF of the CQDSC, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements on the two cells sensitized by CQDs and CdS were carried out. In Nyquist plots, a dominant semicircle was observed in the mid and low frequencies together with a small one at high frequencies. We temporarily adopted the equivalent circuit developed previously [29] to fit the data using Zview software, and fairly good fittings are obtained (the solid lines). It is known that the big semicircle reflects the charge transfer resistance and interfacial capacitance at the counter electrode/electrolyte interface, while the small one represents the charge recombination resistance and constant phase element at the photoanode/electrolyte interface. Compared to the CdS-sensitized solar cell, the CQD-sensitized cell suffers from a larger charge transfer resistance as evidenced from the much larger semicircle in the mid and low frequencies, which might account for its lower FF and PCE. This conclusion is consistent with the remarks given in Margraf’s work, where the authors claimed that the balance between the charge recombination and regeneration processes is not ideal in CQDSCls [23].In ISQDSCs, it has been demonstrated that surface passivation of the photoanode by ZnS has a positive effect on the performance of the solar cells [30]. When this method was applied to the CQDSCs presented in this work, however, decreased JSC and VOC values were observed, which results in a lower PCE of 0.64% (Figure S1). The effects of photoanode annealing on the performance of the CQDSCs were also examined. Briefly, the CQDs-hybridized photoanode was heated in a muffle furnace under nitrogen for 10 min at 350 °C and 450 °C, respectively, followed by natural cooling to room temperature. After annealing, the absorption of the annealed photoanodes were enhanced, as confirmed by UV-vis-NIR measurements (Figure S2). However, the decrease of JSC and VOC was noticed especially after annealing at 350 °C, which eventually led to a decreased PCE (see Figure S3 for a detailed discussion of the effect of post-annealing). The failure of ZnS passivation and post-annealing in terms of further improving the performance of the CQDSCs indicates that the characteristics of this new type of solar cell are different from their counterparts based on ISQDs. This is understandable if one considers that the energy levels and/or charge transfer mechanisms behind CQDs and ISQDs are thought to be different [31]. Although the outcome of ZnS passivation and post-annealing is somehow disappointing, it indicates that further optimization of CQDSCs should adopt a method that is thoroughly different from that well-established for ISQDSCs, which is important in terms of fundamental research.

Go to:3. Materials and Methods

3.1. Materials Citric acid and ethanediamine were obtained from Sinopharm Chemical Reagent Co. Ltd. Terpineol, ethyl cellulose (EC), P25, 200-nm-sized anatase TiO2 nanoparticles were purchased from Jingge Solar Co. Ltd. (Wuhan, China). All chemicals were used without further purification. Solutions for electrolyte and QD deposition were prepared with high-purity water obtained from a water purification system (Ulupure Instrument Co. Ltd. Chengdu, China). The electrode substrate was fluorine-doped tin oxide conducting glass (FTO, thickness: 2.2 mm, Nippon, sheet resistance 14 Ω/square).3.2. Preparation of TiO2-Coated Photoanode Two kinds of TiO2 pastes adopted for doctor blading were prepared using P25 and 200 nm TiO2 particles, respectively. A transparent TiO2 layer was first coated on FTO glass using P25 paste, which was further grown by a scattering layer with a 200 nm TiO2 paste. After being leveled for 15 min, the samples were heated at 80 °C for 30 min and then annealed at 450 °C for 30 min. Finally, the samples were treated in a 40 mM TiCl4 solution, rinsed with water, dried under air flow, and heated to 500 °C in air for 30 min.3.3. In Situ Growth of CQDs on TiO2 Surface A TiO2-coated photoanode is vertically immersed in the aqueous solution containing 0.5 mol·L−1 citric acid and 0.5 mol·L−1 ethanediamine. The system was then sealed in an autoclave at 180 °C and pyrolized for 24 h. The CQDs/TiO2 hybridized photoanode was rinsed with deionized water thoroughly and dried in air. The CdS/TiO2 hybridized photoanode was also prepared for comparison following the previous method (without annealing, photoanode 1 in Reference [1]).For passivation with ZnS, the CQD-sensitized photoanode was dipped into 100 mmol·L−1 Zn(CH3COO)2 aqueous solution followed by dipping in Na2S aqueous solution with the same concentration. This dipping circle was repeated twice with a duration of 1 min. To see the post-annealing influence on the performance of the solar cell, the CQD-sensitized photoanode was also sintered at 350 °C and 450 °C, respectively, in a muffle furnace under nitrogen for 10 min.3.4. Construction of the Solar Cell To construct the solar cell, polysulfide electrolyte was sandwiched between the CQD- or CdS-sensitized photoanode and the counter electrode separated with a silicone spacer. The electrolyte contains 1 mol·L−1 Na2S and 1 mol·L−1·s in ethanol/water mixture (3/7, v/v). Cu2S on copper was selected as a counter electrode based on the literature. The active area of the solar cell is ~0.20 cm2.3.5. Characterizations SEM observations were carried out on JSM-6700F. TEM observations were performed on JEOL JEM-100 CXII (JEOL Co. Ltd., Tokyo, Japan). Samples were prepared by scraping the photoanodes from the FTO substrate and dispersed in ethanol solution, followed by transferring several drops of the suspension onto a carbon-coated copper grid. XRD patterns were obtained between 10° and 80° in the 2θ scan mode using a Rigaku D/Max 2200-PC diffractometer with Cu Ka radiation (λ = 0.15418 nm) and a graphite monochromator (Rigaku Co. Ltd., Tokyo, Japan) at room temperature. Photoluminescence was recorded on a PerkinElmer LS-55 fluorescence spectrometer. FTIR spectra were obtained on a Bruker ALPHA-T IR spectrophotometer. The absorbance spectra were recorded by U-4100 UV-vis-NIR spectrophotometer (Hitachi Co. Ltd., Tokyo, Japan).The solar cell (active area: 0.20 cm2) was prepared in a sandwich structure and its performance was evaluated by a source meter (Keithley 2400) illuminated with a SS150A solar simulator (Zolix Instrument Co. Ltd., Beijing, China) under AM 1.5 illumination of 100 mW·cm−2. Electrochemical impedance spectra (EIS) were recorded in the sandwich cell using a CHI 600E electrochemical analyzer (Chenhua, Shanghai, China) in the dark. The measured frequency for EIS ranged from 100 kHz to 100 mHz, and the amplitude was set to 10 mV. The results were fitted by Zview software. The incident-photon-to-current conversion efficiency (IPCE) was measured by the DC method using an Solar Cell Scan 100 (IPCE system, Zolix Instrument Co. Ltd., Beijing, China) without bias illumination.

4. Conclusions In summary, we have demonstrated a simple, low-cost, and effective strategy of growing CQDs in situ on TiO2 surfaces. The CQD-sensitized photoanode was then used to construct solar cell with a PCE of 0.87%, which is the highest record among CQDSCs. Compared to other CQDSCs reported previously, the solar cells demonstrated have higher PCEs and simplified fabrication method. Although the PCE is still much lower compared to that of the solar cells sensitized by ISQDs, the solar cells demonstrated here have a low cost and are environmentally friendly. By systematic optimization of photoanodes, counter electrode, and electrolyte, the performance of the CQDSCs could be further improved in future. Considering the fast growth in both fields related to solar cells and CQDs, there is no doubt that this new type of solar cell has a bright future.

Acknowledgments This work was financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (No. 61474124, No. 21402215, No. 51602317).Go to:Supplementary Materials The following are available online at http://www.mdpi.com/2079-4991/7/6/130/s1. Table S1: Key parameters of the solar cells sensitized by CQDs or GQDs reported in the literatures, Figure S1: JV curve of the CQDSC constructed with the photoanode passivated by ZnS, Figure S2: UV-vis-NIR absorption of CQD-sensitized photoanodes without and with post-annealing at different temperatures, Figure S3: JV characteristics of CQDSCs constructed by CQD-sensitized photoanodes without and with post-annealing at different temperatures.

Click here for additional data file.(1.0M, pdf)Go to:

Author Contributions Geping Zhang and Xiaofeng Sun prepared the carbon quantum dots and performed their basic characterizations. Keyang Yin made contributions in terms of TEM and SEM observations. Quanxin Zhang fabricated the solar cells, characterized them, and prepared a draft of the manuscript. Hongguang Li designed the project, discussed the results with all of the members, and revised the manuscript.

Go to:Conflicts of Interest The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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SOURCE LINK: Article Improving the Power Conversion Efficiency of Carbon Quantum ...

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Article Electrospun Nanofibers Applied to Dye Solar Sensitive Cells: A Review

"Materials (Basel). 2019 Oct; 12(19): 3190.Article Electrospun Nanofibers Applied to Dye Solar Sensitive Cells: A Review

Published online 2019 Sep 29. doi: 10.3390/ma12193190

PMCID: PMC6804129

PMID: 31569449

Electrospun Nanofibers Applied to Dye Solar Sensitive Cells: A Review

Jesse Gerardo López-Covarrubias,1 Laura Soto-Muñoz,1 Ana Leticia Iglesias,2,* and Luis Jesús Villarreal-Gómez1,2,*

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Abstract

In recent decades, there has been an increase in the research for the development and improvement of dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), owing to their singular advantages such as greater efficiency in energy conversion and overall performance in adverse environmental conditions. Therefore, work is carried out to enhance the energy efficiency of the components of the DSSCs: photoanode, counter-electrode, electrolyte, and dye sensitizer layer. Electrospun nanofibers in particular, have showed to be a novel alternative as components in DSSCs, mainly for energy conversion and as collector materials due in part to their tridimensional structure, high contact surface area and conductivity. Moreover, the incorporation of metallic compounds into nanofibers is advantageously employed in the electrospinning technique, owing to their conductivity and optical properties. Therefore, the present work consists of a detailed recompilation of the use of electrospun nanofibers loaded with metallic compounds and their application in DSSCs. The functionality of the components of DSSCs, parameters and experimental conditions of electrospinning, such as the intrinsic aspects in the polymer solution, are discussed and applied to the photoanode, counter-electrode and electrolyte of the DSSC. Lastly, the use of the electrospinning technique in combination with the use of metallic compounds could provide a great approach for the developing of DSSCs, with superior efficiency, high stability and durability.

Keywords: electrospun nanofibers, electrospinning, electrolyte, solar cells, DSSC, photoanode, counter electrode

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1. Introduction

For the last 20 years, advancements in the generation of energy through solar cells has been remarkable, not only due to increased energy efficiency, but also because of improvements which can be seen in its design and manufacturing [1]. Currently, there are three generations of solar cells: (a) silicon wafers comprised the first generation; (b) thin-film solar cells make up the second generation, and finally, (c) organic solar cells encompass the third generation of solar cells [2]. Amongst these, silicon solar cells have the highest energy conversion with efficiencies up to 26% [3]. Dye sensitized solar cells (DSSC) which are included in the third generation, have the greatest efficiency of all other types of organic cells, with an energy conversion of up to 10% [4]. In addition to their more effective ability to capture solar diffuse radiation, they have better performance in low light environments such as indoor environments and on cloudy days [5].

An advantage in the design of DSSCs is the use of flexible and lighter materials, which consequently increases the number of applications in which the DSSCs can be used. Furthermore, DSSCs bear certain advantages compared to the first and second generation solar cells: a lower manufacturing cost in conjunction with a market low cost of the components, makes the cost of a DSSC about 10–20% of the manufacturing cost of silicon cells [6]. The increase in the energy conversion efficiency is a great challenge to overcome in the market entry of DSSCs. To achieve this objective, modifications have been made to the components of the DSSC, as well as to their manufacturing processes [7]. The electrospinning technique is an option to increase the efficiency of DSSCs, because the resulting nanofibers increase the contact area, garnering a greater absorption of solar energy [8]. In this work, a summary of the components of DSSCs is made, as well as its operation. A brief review of the electrospinning technique and its use in the manufacture of DSSC is discussed, presenting an updated comparison of electrospun compounds and their efficiency; and thus providing the basis for the development in the manufacture and design of DSSCs.

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2. Dye Solar Sensitive Cells

2.1. Background

The first DSSC solar cells date back to 1972, when cells were prepared using chlorophyll as a sensitizing dye and zinc oxide as a photoanode, however, efficiency was very low (2.4%) due to its low surface area [9,10]. In 1991, Michael Grätzel and Brian O’Regan developed a solar cell using a combination of layers; a nano-structured titanium (IV) oxide (TiO2) layer with a Ruthenium (II) complex as a photoanode, and with this change in the manufacturing process an increase to 7% in the efficiency of the DSSC was achieved [11].

2.2. Components of a DSSC

The structure of the DSSC is illustrated in Figure 1. The main components are: photoanode, dye sensitizer layer, electrolyte and counter-electrode [5,10,12,13]:

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Figure 1

Diagram of the structure of a DSSC (based on [13]).

2.2.1. Photoanode

The photoanode consists of a metal oxide semiconductor deposited on the surface of a transparent conductive oxide substrate (TCO). The TCO allows the collection and transfer of electrons to an external circuit. Usually, a fluoride doped tin oxide (FTO) is used as the TCO; this is due to its excellent electrical conductivity (5.8 × 10−2 S·cm−1), optical transparency and 75% of transmittance approximately [10,13,14]. Titanium (IV) oxide compound (TiO2) is the most common semiconductor used in depositions in the TCO of photoanodes for DSSC [5,9,10,11].

2.2.2. Dye Sensitizer Layer

The dye sensitizer in the DSSC is responsible for absorbing the light generated from the electron current through photo excitation and is thus affixed to the photoanode [15].

2.2.3. Electrolyte

The redox electrolyte in the DSSC works as a transport path to transfer electrons from the counter-electrode to the oxidized dye, thus compensating for the loss of electrons in the dye. The electrolyte in the DSSC can be classified as a: liquid, quasi-solid and solid. The most common electrolyte used in DSSC are in the liquid state; usually a iodide/triiodide based compounds [12,16,17].

2.2.4. Counter-Electrode

The counter electrode is responsible for taking the electrons from an external circuit and dispersing them in the electrolyte [17]. Consequently, it is crucial that the counter electrode has a good reduction reaction rate, as well as a high electrical conductivity and catalytic activity. Platinum (Pt) is used as a standard catalyst in DSSC, because of its high current density and catalytic efficiency. However, the use of Pt elevates the cost of the device [10]. Accordingly, electrospun nanofibers with metallic oxides can be used as replacement for Pt as counter electrodes due to their tridimensional structure and high surface area. These 3D structures are also called scaffolds and have better light-absorbing capacity due to their larger surface area compared to 1D structures. In the electrospinning technique, a polymeric solution drop is attracted by an electrical field creating nanofibers, which fall into a static collector. Fibers are then randomly deposited one over another, constructing a porous scaffold and creating a vast surface area. Hence, the more surface area that is present, the more electrons can be displace at the same time to the electrolyte compartment [10,17].

2.3. Working Principle

The operating principle of a DSSC can be understood by the following [17,18,19,20,21,22,23]: (a) light comes in contact with the dye, (b) photons of light are trapped by the dye, which causes an excitation of electrons, and the electrons are transmitted to the conduction band of the semiconductor (photoanode), (c) the photoanode collects the electrons and transports them to an external circuit, which transmits them to the counter-electrode, (d) the counter-electrode transfers electrons to the electrolyte, which serves as an intermediate between the counter-electrode and photoanode, and, (e) the electrolyte restores the lost electrons to the photoanode.

2.4. Applications

DSSCs have made their way into the world of solar cells, due to their advantages over first- and second-generation solar cells; not only for their low cost, but for operating in non-standardized conditions, making them ideal for places where the environmental conditions vary greatly. DSSC for example, are efficient in low light environments, e.g., at dusk, on cloudy days or even indoors. Therefore, DSSC can be applied to many applications in areas such as panels, tiles, facades, solar roofs and smart sensors in automotive and nautical industries, among many others [24].

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3. Electrospinning Technique

Electrospinning is a technique used for the formation of fibers and manufacture of fibrous scaffolds; its applications have increased substantially in recent years; particularly in the fields of medicine and engineering (R&D). The electrospinning technology is based on the injection of a conductive polymer solution, electrically charged and directed towards a collector, against an electrode that is grounded closing the circuit. The solution then passes through a field of electrostatic forces ranging from 20 to 50 kV, which produces a stretching effect that forms fibers from one nanometer to one micrometer (Figure 2). “Upon effect of electrostatic forces, the polymeric solution is attracted towards the opposite electrode and a straight jet of solution is formed from a conical protrusion, often called a Taylor cone, leading to fibers with diameter in submicron range” [25], the solvent then evaporates and is deposited in the collector.

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Figure 2

Electrospinning device set up (based on [26]).

3.1. Parameters and Conditions of Electrospinning

The parameters to mainly consider are: applied voltage, flow velocity, type of collector, and distance between the collector and the tip of the dispenser of the polymeric solution. The experimental conditions are ideally carried out in a controlled atmosphere (pressure, temperature and low humidity) in the electrospinning chamber, as well as, “air velocity inside the chamber” [26]. An important and intrinsic parameter to consider in the preparation of the solution that will be independent of the compound to be chosen, is the molecular weight of the polymer, since the optimum concentration of the polymer and the final viscosity of the solution obtained will depend on it.

3.2. Polymeric Solution Used to Produce the Photovoltaic Effect

In principle, the selection of the polymer should be made according to the characteristics that match according to the application. In the case of the photovoltaic industry, important parameters such as the free flow of electrons, characteristic of the conductivity of the material and mobility between empty spaces, are some aspects that should be considered in the synthesis of solar cells. Generally, the conductivity mechanism in conducting polymers is based on the motion of charged defects within the conjugated framework. These defects can be positive (p-type) or negative (n-type) and result from the oxidation or reduction of the polymer, respectively [27].

3.3. Fiber Morphology Characteristics

Particle or suspension electrospinning refers to dispersing particles in the polymer solution and electrospinning the mixture. Various nanoparticles have been electrospun at low loadings including magnetite, TiO2, CaCO3, fumed silica, carbon black, iron and nickel, with an average particle diameters of less than 100 nm and fiber size on the order of 200–2000 nm [28].

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4. Electrospinning Applied to DSSC

Despite the multiple advantages presented by the DSSC, there is a problem with their low efficiency; consequently, in recent years there have been many studies where strategies are proposed to increase their efficiency. One way to achieve this goal is to develop electrospun components for the DSSC, such as photoanodes, counter-electrodes and electrolytes [29].

4.1. Photoanodes

In the photoanode of a DSSC, morphology and structure play a very important role in the performance of electron transport [29]. Photoanodes composed of semiconductor nanoparticles are commonly used as they provide active spaces for dye adsorption, but its grain boundaries may cause an unexpected detachment that brings about a low electron transport and efficiency. Several studies have been carried out for the development of photoanodes with materials with one-dimensional morphology (1D). Therefore, cellulose acetate nanotubes and nanofibers compounds are a very promising option for its use in DSSC (Figure 3) [8].

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Figure 3

Photoanode with electrospun nanofibers in a DSSC.

TiO2 is the most widely used semiconductor, however, compounds such as Sn (IV), Zn (II), Ni (II), have also been studied for the manufacture of electrospun nanofibers used as photoanode [30,31,32,33,34,35,36,37,38,39,40]. Table 1 summarizes the most significant results concerning the efficiency of the above discussed nanofibers as photoanode. The nanofibers discussed in this review are arranged in Table 1 in order of ascending efficiency.

Table 1

Comparison of the characteristics of electrospun nanofibers for photoanodes.

EntryCompositionExperiment ConditionsVoc 1 (V)Jsc 2 (mA/cm2)FF 3η 4 (%)Ref.1ZnOSolution: PVA, DMF, Zn(CH3COO)2, HAc. * Voltage: 15 kV Rate: 0.015 mL/h0.603.580.621.34[31]2TiO2Solution: PVP, Ti(Iso), HAc, EtOH. Distance: 20 cm Voltage: 15 kV Rate: 0.2 mL/h0.7825.710.642.87[32]3Nb2O5Solution: PVP, NbEt, EtOH, HAc. Rate: 2 mL/h0.776.680.593.05[33]4TiO2-GOSolution: Ti(Iso), PVA, HAc, GO. * Voltage: 16 kV0.7849.410.614.52[34]5TiO2-ZnOSolution: TBT, EtOH, PVP. * Rate: 0.8 mL/h0.5913.150.584.59[35]6SnO2-TiO2Solution: SnCl2·2H2O, EtOH, DMF, PVP. * Voltage: 13.5 kV0.72314.710.484.61[36]7TiO2-Nb2O5Solution: Ti(Iso), PVA, HAc, DMF, EtOH, C10H25NbO5. * Voltage: 15 kV Rate: 0.5 mL/h0.7911.60.635.8[37]8Ag- TiO2Solution: Ti(Iso), PVP, HAc, EtOH, AgNO3. * Voltage: 20 kV Rate: 0.05 mL/h0.6814.930.606.13[38]9TiO2-ZrO2Solution: PMMA, MC/EtOH, ZA, HAc.0.6914.9–6.2[39]10Ti-GrSolution: Ti(Iso), PVP, CH3OH, Gr. * Voltage: 12 kV Rate: 1 mL/h0.7116.20.667.6[40]

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1 Open circuit voltage; 2 short circuit current density; 3 fill factor; 4 efficiency; * distance: 15 cm.

TiO2 nanofibers are not the only scaffolds used as photoanode. ZnO/poly (vinyl acetate), composite nanofiber mats (Table 1, entry 1), were directly electrospun onto a glass substrate coated with F: SnO2 for its application in DSSCs. After being electrospun, these fibers were hot pressed at 120 °C and calcined at 450 °C. This resulted in a multiple nanofiber network composed of a twisted structure of 200–500 nm diameter cores with ~30 nm single grains. The DSSCs using ZnO nanofiber mats exhibited a conversion efficiency of 1.34% under 100 mW∕cm2 (AM-1.5G) illumination [31].

Currently, there is great interest in the manufacture of vertically aligned nanowires from electrospun nanofibers, with the objective of having an efficient electron transfer. Krishnamoorthy et al. (2011) reported for the first time the fabrication of vertical nanowires of TiO2 from electrospun nanofibers (Table 1, entry 2). This study resulted in an energy conversion efficiency of 2.87%. Authors sustain that this approach can be a better alternative to the currently available methods, such as hydrothermal synthesis and template assisted fabrication, because the diameter, height, and spacing between the wires can be effectively controlled by this electrospinning [32]. Moreover, nanowires of Nb2O5 were developed in three polymorphic forms (Table 1, entry 3), pseudo-hexagonal, orthorhombic, and monoclinic, by the electrospinning technique followed by a subsequent annealing. The pseudo-hexagonal phase, showed higher device performance owing to its higher specific surface area compared with the other two. However, the monoclinic phase gave superior performance with respect to dye-loading. Studies on the charge transport properties of the nanofibers, using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and open circuit voltage decay, indicates that the monoclinic phase has high resistance against charge recombination and improved electron lifetime, compared with the other phases and conventional TiO2 nanostructures. The monoclinic Nb2O5 is likely to be a material of choice as a photoelectrode in dye-sensitized solar cells, if mesoporous particles with large surface area could be synthesized [33].

Graphene oxide (GO)-incorporated into TiO2 nanofibers (Table 1, entry 4), have also been proposed as a working electrode for dye sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The presence of graphene oxide increases the amount of dye absorption, which leads to high migration of photoinduced electrons to the conduction band of the collection electrode, inhibiting electron recombination. Additionally, the presence of GO improves the electron transport from the films to the fluorine doped tin oxide (FTO) substrates. Accordingly, a remarkable enhancement in power conversion efficiency of 4.52% was achieved, by utilizing 0.5 wt% GO-incorporated TiO2 nanofibers as working electrode, which is higher than the conversion efficiency in case of pristine TiO2 nanofibers (1.54%). A higher amount of graphene oxide, results in a decrease in the power conversion efficiency [34].

Li et al. (2014) [35], also used electrospun TiO2 nanofibers to enhance the conversion efficiency of ZnO-based DSSC. According to the authors, the system TiO2/ZnO (Table 1, entry 5) composite photoanode, provides a direct transport pathway for electron injection to increase electron transfer efficiency. The results indicated that the light scattering of the photoanode film was increased and that electron recombination was suppressed when the appropriate amount of hollow TiO2 nanofibers were added to ZnO. The maximal energy conversion efficiency reached 4.59% by adding 10 wt% of hollow TiO2 nanofibers, which is 62% higher than that of DSSC based on pure ZnO nanoparticles (~2.84% PCE).

Gao et al. (2012) [36], reported a high-efficiency photoelectrode for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), and some advantageous features, such as fast electron transport, slow interfacial electron recombination and large specific surface area, were discussed. Nevertheless, these properties cannot be simultaneously present. The power conversion efficiency (PCE) of the SnO2 nanofibers-TiO2 (SnO2 NF-TiO2) was ~4.61% (Table 1, entry 6); a similar value compared to the reported ~4.82% for TiO2 nanoparticles films in (P25 film) DSSCs.

Novel TiO2/Nb2O5 core–sheath nanofibers (NFs) (Table 1, entry 7) were prepared via co-electrospinning. The TiO2/Nb2O5-based DSSCs were superior to just TiO2-based nanofibers. The conversion efficiency was enhanced from 4.5 to 5.8%, which corresponds to an increase of ca. 30% [37].

TiO2 nanofibers that have been doped with silver (Table 1, entry 8), increased the amount of dye loading, causing a higher short-circuit current in the photoanodes. This strategy was used to increment the open circuit voltage. This process enhanced the exit of dye molecules, which were rapidly split into electrons; so DSSCs with these nanofibers stopped the recombination of the electronic process. The conversion efficiency of TiO2 photoelectrode-based DSSCs was 4.74%; which increased to 6.13% after adding 5 wt% of Ag-doped TiO2 nanofiber (ATN) into TiO2 films. The electron lifetime of DSSCs with ATN increased from 0.29 to 0.34 s and the electron recombination was reduced [38].

ZrO2 electrospun fibers (Table 1, entry 9) were also reported for the application in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The addition of ZrO2 fibers into TiO2 electrodes provided good dye loading and an effective electron pathway, increasing the charge transfer in the TiO2/electrolyte interface over conventional TiO2 electrode. Energy conversion efficiency of DSSCs with a TiO2–ZrO2-700 composite electrode was 6.2%, an increase of 26.5% compared to 4.9% of pure TiO2 electrode. The electron recombination times of pure TiO2 and TiO2–ZrO2-700 electrode were 15.94 and 21.69 ms, respectively [39]. The data obtained by the TiO2-ZrO2 nanofibers surpass the given results of a study conducted by X. Luan and Y. Wang in 2014, where a thin film made of TiO2-ZrO2 achieved a 6.12% energy conversion efficiency [36].

Finally, the most efficient nanofibrous system is fabricated with TiO2-Graphene nanofibers (Table 1, entry 10). These fibers reported a minimal presence of graphene between 0.0–0.7 wt%. TiO2-graphene composites fibers presented a two-fold higher efficiency than that of the electrospun TiO2 fibers, obtaining up to 7.6% [40], which is the best reported efficiency of all nanofibers compared. Furthermore, these values are higher than the results given by a non-electrospun layer of TiO2-graphene (in 2011) with a reported efficiency of 6.86% [37].

4.2. Counter Electrode

In Table 2, a comparison of efficiencies of different electrospun polymeric composite nanofibers, proposed as a counter electrode is presented, as before they are arranged in ascending order of efficiency [41,42,43,44,45,46,47,48,49,50,51]. The counter electrode (CE) plays a key role in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), because it mediates and facilitates the electron transfer from the external circuit to the redox couple, to complete the DSSC circuit [41].

Table 2

Comparison of characteristics of electrospun nanofibers for counter electrodes.

EntryCompositionExperiment ConditionsVoc 1 (V)Jsc 2 (mA/cm2)FF 3η 4 (%)Ref.1Co-TiCSolution: PVP, HAc, EtOH, Ti(Iso), Co(CH3COOH)2 Voltage:18 kV0.7589.980.503.8[42]2Cu2ZnSnS4Solution: PVP, CA, EtOH, M+2Cl2, M= Cu, Zn; SnCl4·5H2O, CH4N2S. Voltage: 15 kV Rate: 1.0 mL/h0.578.420.653.90[43]3TiC-CNFsSolution: TiC, PAN, DMF. * Voltage: 20 kV Rate: 0.5 mL/h0.729.710.644.5[44]4Ni-Co-CNFsSolution: PAN, DMF, M+2(CH3COOH)2. M= Co, Ni * Voltage: 20 kV Rate: 0.5 mL/h0.739.780.644.66[45]5Fe-Ni-CNFsSolution: PAN, DMF, Ni(CH3COOH)2, Fe(NO3)2 * Voltage: 25 kV Rate: 0.5 mL/h0.7210.10.654.7[46]6RuSolution: PAN, DMF, RuCl3·xH2O. * Voltage: 13 kV Rate: 0.03 mL/h0.7014.770.606.23[47]7NiCo2S4Solution: M+2(NO3)2. 6H2O, M= Ni, Co DMF, PAN. * Voltage: 15 kV0.7017.060.607.12[48]8Gr- CuCl2Solution: PAN, CuCl2, InCl3, CH4N2S, CHCl3, DMF. * Voltage: 19 kV Rate: 0.2 mL/h0.6917.530.597.23[49]9C-PtSolution: PAN, DMF, H2PtCl6, HCOOH Voltage: 15 kV Rate: 1.0 mL/h0.8313.920.657.5[50]10Ni-CSolution: PAN, DMF, Ni (AcAc)2 Distance: 20 cm Voltage: 18 kV0.8015.830.637.96[51]

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1 Open circuit voltage; 2 short circuit current density; 3 fill factor; 4 efficiency; * distance: 15 cm.

Pt-based counter electrodes are most often used in the DSSC for their excellent performance. Their manufacture is based on thermal deposition and vacuum bombardment; which requires high temperatures and complex installations [41]. Therefore, alternatives to these high operating costs are needed, in addition to the cost of Pt (II) compounds. Experiments with carbonaceous materials have been carried out in addition to electrospun conductive polymers for use as counter electrodes in the DSSC (Table 2, Figure 4) [8,41].

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Figure 4

Counter electrode with electrospun nanofibers in a DSSC.

Cobalt-titanium carbide nanoparticles (Co-TiC NPs) embedded on electrospun carbon nanofibers were studied (Table 2, entry 1), the results showed that the introduced composite (metal carbide) could enhance both methanol electro-oxidation and electrochemical stability (189 mV and ∼90 mA·cm−2, respectively), as well as the low onset potential and high current density of the composite electrode. Moreover, these fibers were effective, providing stable electro catalytic activity (ECA) and conductivity, indicating that the composite can improve catalytic activity in triiodide reduction [42].

In the same way, kesterite Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS) nanofibers were fabricated by electrospinning process (Table 2, entry 2). These CZTS nanofibers showed optical properties with a strong absorption in 300–550 nm range with band gap energy of 1.5 eV [43]. Another research group replaced Pt with titanium carbide (TiC) embedded with electrospun carbon nanofibers (CNFs) (Table 2, entry 3). The photovoltaic performance demonstrated that the DSSC fabricated using 10 wt% TiC embedded CNFs as CE had very close photo energy conversion efficiency (PCE) than the conventional Pt. This is attributed to the synergistic effect of TiC with the larger electrocatalytic surface area of CNFs, which plays a substantial part in the improvement of photovoltaic performance of DSSC [44].

Rameez et. al. (2016) [45], reported bimetallic (Ni–Co) nanoparticles-incorporated to electrospun carbon nanofibers (CNFs) as a counter electrode (Table 2, entry 4). In this study, the PCE of DSSC was nearer to the power conversion energy of the counter electrode assembled with standard Pt. Hence, authors proposed that Ni–Co nanoparticles-incorporated CNFs can be applied as a cost-effective alternative counter electrode for DSSCs.

In 2015, Saranya et al. [46], studied earth-abundant bimetallic (Fe–Ni) nanoparticle-embedded carbon nanofibers (CNFs) for its potential use as counter electrodes (Table 2, entry 5). These electrospun fibers had power conversion efficiency (PCE), almost comparable to the same fabricated using standard platinum; owing to the CNFs’ large surface area and random orientation; as well as an interconnected porous morphology with graphitized structure that also enhanced the contact with a large quantity of the ionic liquid electrolyte.

Rare earth elements have also been used for the fabrication of electrospun nanofibers used as CE, Ru(III) nanofibers consisting of nano-sized grains are used instead of the typical Pt counter electrode for DSSCs (Table 2, entry 6). These nanofibers were fabricated by electrospinning followed by post-calcination and hydrogen reduction. The resultant Ru nanofibers exhibit properties of improved photovoltaic performance, such as, lower charge transfer resistance (12.5 Ω·cm−2), higher short-circuit current density (14.77 mA·cm−2), and higher PCE (6.23%) which is comparable to a commercial Pt counter electrode. The improved photovoltaic performance of the counter electrode in the DSSC was attributed to the combined effects of small grain size, which resulted in a high number of electrochemical sites, a high electrical conductivity that lead to improved electro catalytic activity, and a unique network structure that allowed for rapid electron transfer and rapid diffusion of the electrolyte [47]. The efficiency obtained by the Ru(II) nanofiber is greater than the Ru film studied in 2012 by J. Han et al., as this film showed an efficiency of 3.40% [39].

Nickel cobalt sulfide (NiCo2S4, NCS) particles were prepared through sulfurization of NiCo2O4 (NCO) electrospun nanofibers (Table 2, entry 7). The bimetallic sulfide was used as CE for DSSC and exhibited an excellent PCE of 7.12%, which is higher than the dye-sensitized solar cells using NCO (5.24%) and Pt CEs (7.05%). Systematic electrochemical characterization suggests that this outstanding performance of NCS might be related to the improved electro catalytic ability and electrical conductivity. Authors agreed, that due to the low-cost synthesis and outstanding electrochemical performance, the NCS counter electrode have great potential for applications in dye-sensitized solar cells [48].

Another example of the use of rare earth elements in DSSC manufacturing is the porous graphene-doped copper indium disulfide/carbon (p-GN@CuInS2/C) composite nanofibers (Table 2, entry 8). A dye-sensitized solar cell assembled using the p-GN@CuInS2/C nanofibers as the counter electrode (CE) delivered a photoelectric conversion efficiency of 7.23%, which was higher than the efficiencies of DSSCs assembled, using the samples without graphene (6.48%) and with the CuInS2/C nanofibers (5.45%). It was also much higher than that of the DSSC with a Pt CE (6.34%). The excellent photoelectric performance of the p-GN@CuInS2/C CE was attributed to its special hierarchical porous structure, which facilitated permeation of the liquid electrolytes and provided additional active catalytic sites for the oxidation reaction of the electrolytic (I−/I3−). The doping of reduced graphene oxide (RGO) resulted in the well-dispersed growth of CuInS2 nanocrystals in the carbon nanofibers, which further increased the number of active catalytic sites and promoted electron and ion transfer [49].

Aboagye et al. (2015) [50], (Table 2, entry 9) reported a transparent fluoride-doped tin oxide (FTO) conductive glass with a thin layer coating of platinum (Pt), which was studied as a counter electrode. The widespread use of Pt as counter electrode in DSSCs is due to its catalytic capability for I3− reduction in the electrolyte. Pt can be affected by the corrosive nature of I−/I3− redox couple, which makes it a less desirable candidate for use in industrial scale manufacturing. To improve the system, carbon nanofibers with surface-attached Pt nanoparticles were prepared by stabilization and carbonization of electrospun polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers (Table 2, entry 9). Compared to conventional counter electrode, carbon-Pt CE exhibited larger open circuit voltage (Voc), moreover, the electrospun DSSCs demonstrated excellent solar energy conversion efficiencies in the range of 7% to 8%.

Finally, a nickel incorporated carbon nanotube/nanofiber composite (Ni-CNT-CNF) was used as a low-cost alternative to Pt as counter electrode (CE) for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) (Table 2, entry 10). Measurements based on electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) showed that the charge transfer resistance (Rct) of the Ni-CNT-CNF composite electrode was 0.71 Ω·cm2, much lower than that of the Pt electrode (1.81 Ω·cm2). Such a low value of Rct indicated that the Ni-CNT-CNF composite carried a higher catalytic activity than the traditional Pt CE. By mixing with CNTs and Ni nanoparticles, the series resistance (Rs) of the Ni-CNT-CNF electrode was measured at 5.96 Ω·cm2, which was close to the Rs of 5.77 Ω·cm2 of the Pt electrode. The DSSCs based on the Ni-CNT-CNF composite CEs yielded an efficiency of 7.96% with a short circuit current density (Jsc) of 15.83 mA·cm−2, open circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.80 V, and a fill factor (FF) of 0.63, which was comparable to the device based on Pt, that exhibited an efficiency of 8.32% with Jsc of 15.01 mA·cm−2, Voc of 0.83, and FF of 0.67 [51].

4.3. Electrolyte

Liquid electrolytes are most often employed in DSSC. However, there are drawbacks in their use. The spill of the liquid is especially a major concern, and thus, greater care must be taken in the hermetic seal of the solar cell. An alternative route to this type of electrolyte are solid electrolytes such as polymers, although they have the disadvantage of low efficiency due to lower electron injection [29].

Electrolytes in a quasi-solid state are another alternative for replacement in DSSC. In recent studies, electrospun nanofibers have been used as an alternative for quasi-solid electrolytes (Figure 5). These investigations have yielded results of high efficiencies which can compete with the efficiencies of liquid electrolytes, in addition to being more stable electrolytes, because they avoid several potential problems such as the complicated sealing and non-volatilization of DSSCs; contrary to the liquid component [52].

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Figure 5

Electrolyte with electrospun nanofibers in a DSSC.

Table 3 presents a comparison of electrolytes based on electrospun nanofibers, and their composition, experimental conditions for electrospinning and main results are presented. Nanofiber are shown in ascending order of efficiency [53,54,55,56,57,58,59,60,61,62].

Table 3

Comparison of the characteristics of electrospun nanofibers for electrolytes.

EntryCompositionExperiment ConditionsVoc 1 (V)Jsc 2 (mA/cm2)FF 3η 4 (%)Ref.1PVdF-PANSolution: PVDF, PAN, (CH3)2CO, DMF. * Voltage: 20 kV Rate: 1.5 mL/h0.746.200.653.09[53]2CASolution: CA, DMSO, (CH3)2CO. Distance: 10 cm Voltage: 10 kV Rate: 2 mL/h0.6999.830.584.0[54]3SiO2Solution: TEOS, PVP, HAc, EtOH. * Voltage: 20 kV Rate: 0.1 mL/min0.6013.630.594.85[55]4PANSolution: PAN, DMF. Voltage: 8 kV Rate: 2 mL/h0.6713.310.595.3[56]5PVdF-HFPSolution: PVDF–HFP, DMF. Distance: 6.5 cm Voltage: 10 kV Rate: 1 mL/h0.6911.80.655.36[57]6BPPOSolution: BPPO, Et(OH), NMP. Distance: 10 cm Voltage: 16 kV Rate: 1.8 mL/min0.700.580.585.4[58]7PVDF–HFP/PSSolution: PVDF–HFP, PS, DMF. * Voltage: 14 kV Rate: 2 mL/h0.7611.60.665.75[59]8PAN-CoSSolution: CoCl2·6H2O, L-cys, H2Od, PAN, DMF. Distance: 12 cm Voltage: 18 kV Rate: 0.5 mL/h0.7214.290.727.41[60]9PMA-PVDF/PEGSolution: PMA, PVDF, PGE, DMF, (CH3)2CO. * Voltage: 20 kV Rate: 0.5 mL/h0.9317.220.668.23[61]10PVDF-LiClSolution: PVDF, DMF, (CH3)2CO, LiCl. * Voltage: 12 kV0.74614.310.828.73[62]

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1 Open circuit voltage; 2 short circuit current density; 3 fill factor; 4 efficiency; * distance: 15 cm.

In 2014, M. Sethupathy et al. [53], created a DSSCs with a polymeric electrolyte based on a mixture of PVDF [poly (vinylidene fluoride)] and polyacrylonitrile (PAN) (Table 3, entry 1), and although their efficiency was only 3.09%, they achieved an open circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.74 V, similar to the previous reported voltage of electrolytes based on PVDF. In addition, the nanofiber porosity and ionic conductivity was 83.6% and 6.12 × 10−2 S·cm−1, respectively.

Weerasinghe et al. (2017) [54], elaborated a quasi-solid electrolyte using cellulose acetate (CA) nanofibers (Table 3, entry 2), which showed an efficiency of 4.0%. Moreover, these CA nanofibers are biodegradable; a feature that should be taken into account for future environmental or biomedical applications.

In 2014, electrospun nanofibers of silicon oxide (IV) SiO2 (Table 3, entry 3) were used as an electrolyte by X.G. Zhao et al. Although in this case the energy conversion efficiency only reached 4.85%, a high short circuit current of 13.63 mA/cm2 was observed, as well as a high interfacial stability between the polymer electrolyte and semiconductor electrodes [55]. As mentioned earlier, electrospun PAN compounds have also been used in electrolytes for DSSC. In 2014, Dissanayake et al. created an electrolyte in a quasi-solid state, using electrospun PAN nanofibers submerged in a solution containing potassium iodide (KI), propylene carbonate (PC) and iodine (I2) (Table 3, entry 4), with an energy conversion efficiency of 5.2% [56].

In an effort to improve the performance of DSSCs, electrospun compounds of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) have been used as a quasi-solid electrolyte (Table 3, entry 7). S. Park et al. (2011) [59], reported two variations of nanofibers which were made of PVDF hexafluoropropylene (PVDF-HFP) and PVDF-HFP/polystyrene (PS). The purpose was to compare the effect of each compound in the DSSC. For the both types of nanofibers, different weight ratios were employed. As a conclusion, it was observed that variations in the proportion and composition of nanofibers did not influence ionic conductivity, absorption, porosity and photovoltaic performance. However, PVDF-HFP/PS nanofibers (Table 3, entry 7) showed a better efficiency 5.75%, compared to the compound without polystyrene 5.39%.

The efficiency obtained in PVDF-HFP nanofibers (Table 3, entry 7) by S. Park et al. [59], is similar to the efficiency shown by Bandara et al. (2018) [57] (Table 3, entry 5) of 5.36% using the same compound years later. In this study a crystallinity analysis of the PVDF nanofiber was carried out using diffraction scanning calorimetry (DSC) thermograms, where a 14% decrease in crystallinity was observed compared to PVDF, without being electrospun.

In another study conducted by S.J. Seo et al. (2011) [58], an electrolyte in a quasi-solid state based on bicarbonated poly (phenylene oxide)/poly (acrylated) nanofibers (BPPO) (Table 3, entry 6) was prepared, thus fabricating a non-fluorinated polymer membrane. The objective of using BPPO was to observe the changes in the efficiency of the DSSC due to the increased in Lewis basicity of the BPPO structure. As a result, an energy conversion efficiency of 5.4% was obtained.

V. Murugadoss et al. (2018) [60], improved PAN nanofibers by adding nanoparticles of cobalt sulphide (Table 3, entry 8), with this electrolyte an efficiency of 7.41% was achieved. This is due to the increase in ionic conductivity and large interfacial area for charge transfer at the electrode/electrolyte interface.

M. Fathy et al. (2016) [61], created electrospun membranes for quasi-solid electrolytes based on PVDF with poly (methyl acrylate) (PMMA) and polyethylene glycol (PEG) (Table 3, entry 9). The weight ratio of the PMMA-PVDF and PMMA-PVDF/PEG solutions was compared. The PMMA-PVDF/PEG solution was the most efficient at 7%; additionally, an ionic conductivity of 3.2 × 10−3 S·cm−1 was obtained. Another factor that was significantly modified with the presence of PEG in the PMMA-PVDF solution was the average fiber diameter; which decreased from 500 nm to 223 nm [61].

Continuing with electrospun compounds based on PVDF, I.A. Sahito et al. (2017) [62], added a lithium chloride salt (LiCl), in order to increase the mobility of ions in the sensitizer dye in DSSC (Table 3, entry 10). The electrolyte composed of PVDF-LiCl yielded a considerable increase in efficiency of the DSSC with a value of 8.73%, which is the highest efficiency reported for an electrolyte based on electrospun nanofibers. In conclusion, PVDF-LiCl nanofibers (Table 3, entry 10) showed the best efficiency of all the nanofibers discussed. Furthermore, the conductivity exhibited by these nanofibers is more relevant in the electrolyte component, e.g., PVDF-PAN showed a conductivity of 6.12 × 10−2 S·cm−1 whereas PAN nanofibers was only 3.2 × 10−3 S·cm−1. In comparison, the reported conductivity for a conventional polymeric electrolyte, is 7.37 × 10−3 S·cm−1 [63]. This data suggests that PVdF-PAN nanofibers showed better conductivity that conventional electrolytes, facilitating the electron transfer trough the DSSC.

Figure 6 summarizes the position where electrospun nanofibers can be located to replace some components in DSSC. The flow of electrons as they move through the DSSC can be observed, and this movement is facilitated by the nanofibers.

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Figure 6

Position of electrospun nanofibers in DSSC (photoanode, electrolyte and counter electrode) (based on [64]).

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5. Conclusions

In this review, the use of electrospun composite nanofibers as components for dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) was discussed. Nanofibers can be applied in three different components in the structure of DSSC: photoanode, counter electrode and electrolyte. In the case of the photoanode component, TiO2 nanofibers are the most commonly used, due to their high efficiency, fast electron transport, slow interfacial electron recombination and large specific surface area. Other systems with ZnO have been proposed, but most of the strategies maintain a TiO2 base; nonetheless adding graphene to TiO2 nanofibers considerably improved the electron transport efficiency, achieving the highest efficiency of all of the fibrous scaffolds discussed. In the case of the counter electrode, the main idea behind the use of nanofibers is the reduction of platinum (Pt) due to its high cost. Researchers are using rare earth elements and graphene oxides as replacements and are obtaining promising results, and Ni-Carbon fibers exhibited the best results. Finally, in the electrolyte component, the idea is to minimize the use of liquid solutions because of its disadvantages such as spills and delicate handling, PVDF-LiCl nanofibers presented the best results for its use in this DSSC component. Furthermore, electrospinning is a versatile, reproducible and low-cost technique which is commonly used in various applications. Electrospun nanofibers offers several advantages for the fabrication of DSSC, such as high surface area, a tridimensional structure, stability, and adequate mechanical properties. Hence, these fibers are particularly convenient in the manufacture of flexible DSSC, moreover, fibers occupy a smaller space in the components, so final DSSC can be fabricated with a tiny thickness. Still many challenges need to be overcome to completely replace the standards components in DSSC with electrospun nanofibers, such as the reproducible concentration of metals over the polymeric nanofibers, equal or higher efficiencies compared to the conventional DSSC, as well as the high cost of some polymers and solvents used in the electrospinning technique.

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Abbreviation

AbbreviationDescriptionATNAg-doped TiO2 nanofiberµsMicrosecondCACellulose acetateCBConduction bandCECounter electrodeCFTrichloromethaneCH4N2SThioureaCHCl3Chloroform(CH3)2COAcetoneCNFsCarbon nanofibersCo (CH3COOH)2 . 4H2OCobalt acetate tetrahydrateCo-TiCCobalt-titanium carbideCu2ZnSnS4Sulfide kesteriteCuCl2Copper (II) ChlorideDMFDimethylformamideDMSODimethyl SulfoxideDSSCDye sensitized solar cellsEredoxRedox potentialEtOHEthanolFe (NO3)2Iron(II) nitrateFFFill factorfsFemtosecondFTOFluoride doped tin oxideGOGraphene oxideH2PtCl6Chloroplatinic acidHAcAcetic acidHCOOHFormic acidHOMOHighest occupied molecular orbitalInCl3Indium (III) ChlorideJscShort circuit current densityLiClLithium chlorideLUMOLowest unoccupied molecular orbitalM+2(NO3)2. 6H2OM= Ni, Co nickel or Cobalt nitrate hexahydratemsMillisecondηEnergy conversion efficiencyNi (AcAc)2Nickel (II) acetylacetonateNiCo2S4Nickel cobalt sulfidensNanosecondNMPN-methyl-2-pyrrolidonePANPoly (acrylonitrile)psPicosecondPMMAPoly (methyl metacrylate)PSPoly (styrene)PVAPoly (vinyl acetate)PVDFPoly (vinyl idene fluoride)PVAPoly (vinyl acetate)PVPPoly (vinyl pyrrolidone)RuCl3·xH2ORuthenium (III) ChlorideSnCl4·5H2OTin(IV) Chloride PentahydrateTBTTetra-butyl titanateTCOTransparent conductive oxide substrateTEOSTetraethyl orthosilicateTi-GrTitanium with graphene powderTi(Iso)Titanium isopropoxideTiCTitanium carbideVocOpen circuit voltageZnCl2Zinc(II) ChlorideZAZirconium acetate

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Author Contributions

Conceptualization, investigation and original draft preparation were prepared by J.G.L.-C. and L.S.-M.; all figures were drawn by J.G.L.-C.; all tables data were recollected by L.S.-M.; writing—review and editing, visualization was equally performed by A.L.I. and L.J.V.-G.

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Funding

This research received no external funding.

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Conflicts of Interest

Authors declare that not exist conflict of interests.

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📷Early View Online Version of Record before inclusion in an issueExport Citation(s)REVIEW PAPERS Composite adsorbent materials for desalination and cooling applications: A state of the art Ahmed S. Alsaman, Eslam Mohamed M. Ibrahim, Mahmoud S. Ahmed, Ahmed A. AskalanyVersion of Record online:01 April 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7894Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Bi2S3 can do it all: Sensitizer, counter electrode, and supercapacitor for symmetric solar cell assisted photo-supercapacitor John Peter Isaqu, Ragavendran Vnekatesan, Rajamanickam Nagalingam, Jeyanthinath Mayandi, Nithiananthi PerumalVersion of Record online:01 April 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7908📷Photo-supercapacitor can be constructed using Bi2S3 as a sensitizer, counter electrode, and supercapacitor without the need for degradable conducting polymer.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions HF free greener Cl-terminated MXene as novel electrocatalyst for overall water splitting in alkaline media Bilal Sarfraz, Muhammad Taqi Mehran, Mutawara Mahmood Baig, Salman Raza Naqvi, Asif Hussain Khoja, Faisal ShahzadVersion of Record online:31 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7895📷Cl-MXene successfully synthesized by greener route via molten salt method. Cl-MXene synthesized electrocatalyst demonstrated enhanced OER and HER performances as compared to traditional HF-MXenes. The improved overall electrochemical activity is credited to the interface engineering of MXenes.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Synergistic enrichment of electrically conductive polypropylene-graphite composites for fuel cell bipolar plates Muhammad Tariq, Utkarsh, Nabeel Ahmed Syed, Amir H. Behravesh, Remon Pop-Illiev, Ghaus RizviVersion of Record online:31 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7898📷Graphical abstractAbstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Heat conduction and thermal expansion of copper–graphite composite as a heat sink SeungHyun Lee, Sung-hun Son, JinSun Kim, Johnbosco Yesuraj, Kibum Kim, Seok-Ho RhiVersion of Record online:30 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7891📷The heat transfer characteristics and mechanical deformation of new composite material heat sinks were evaluated. The composite material is comprised of graphite with 60wt.% copper. Compared with the pure copper heat sink, the composite heat sink decreases the average temperature of the insulated-gate bipolar mode transistor module by approximately 22 K. It also decreases the total deformation of the heat sink caused by thermal expansion of the material by 78% and the equivalent stress by 25.2%.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Isothermal performance of a temperature comparison source using potassium concentric annular heat pipe Hongzhe Zhang, Fang Ye, Hang Guo, Xiaoke YanVersion of Record online:30 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7906Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Titanium carbide/carbon nanofibers film as flexible gas diffusion layers for passive direct methanol fuel cells Shujie Xue, Qingwei Wang, Guangjun Dai, Minglin Zhao, Shanshan Sun, Nengfei Yu, Qinghong Huang, Yusong Zhu, Lijun Fu, Yuping WuVersion of Record online:30 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7892📷This work successfully developed a simple electrospinning method to prepare flexible titanium carbide/carbon nanofibers (TiC/CNFs) film used as GDL and microporous layer of MEA, which exhibits enhancing performance and excellent flexibility. The maximum power density of flexible DMFC (20.2 mW/cm2) rises by 11.6% compared with the GDL made of traditional carbon cloth (18.1 mW/cm2), the voltage drops less than 10% after 50 consecutive bends. Results suggest that the new flexible GDL can effectively reduce the charge transfer resistance and enhance the catalytic activity of the catalyst.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Computational fluid dynamics model based artificial neural network prediction of flammable vapor clouds formed by liquid hydrogen releases Jinsheng Xiao, Pan He, Xuefang Li, Pierre Bénard, Tianqi Yang, Richard ChahineVersion of Record online:30 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7902📷The liquid hydrogen releases were modeled using a computational fluid dynamics model, which was validated by experimental data. A prediction correlation was established for diffusion distances of flammable hydrogen clouds for various wind speeds, ground temperatures, leakage durations, and mass flow rates of liquid hydrogen using the artificial neural network (ANN) model. The effects of the four input parameters on the diffusion distances were analyzed using the ANN model.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS An inclusive perspective on the recent development of tungsten-based catalysts for overall water-splitting: A review Uzair Abdullah, Maryum Ali, Erum Pervaiz, Rafiq KhosaVersion of Record online:29 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7800📷This review aims to present a comprehensive understanding and timely reference for the progress of tungsten-based catalysts in this field. This study begins with the fundamental principle of water splitting and the properties of tungsten and its hybrids then moves on to different techniques for producing binary/ternary nanocomposites for overall water splitting. A comprehensive overview of the recent developments in tungsten-based photo/electro catalysts for overall water splitting is then presented with the techniques to enhance the catalyst activity, such as morphological control, surface modification, heteroatom doping, and heterojunction construction. Finally, recommendations for the future are proposed.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Optoelectronic and photovoltaic properties of Cs2AgBiX6 (X = Br, Cl, or I) halide double perovskite for solar cells: Insight from density functional theory Hanan Absike, Nora Baaalla, Rachida Lamouri, Hicham Labrim, Hamid Ez-zahraouyVersion of Record online:29 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7907📷The main results to investigate the electronic, optic and photovoltaic properties of the halide double perovskite using the TB-mBJ approach. The bandgap values are 1.12, 2.04, and 2.81 eV for Cs2AgBiI6, Cs2AgBiBr6, and Cs2AgBiCl6 respectively.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Microstructure and mechanical properties of electrochemically cycled ice-templated Li4Ti5O12 sintered anodes Rohan Parai, Ziyang Nie, Dipankar Ghosh, Gary M. Koenig JrVersion of Record online:29 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7909📷This study evaluated the mechanical and microstructural properties of ice-templated lithium-ion battery electrodes containing only sintered electroactive material. Ice-templating resulted in aligned pores that improve ion transport properties and aligned ceramic-rich regions which increase electrode compressive strength. For the material evaluated herein, the mechanical strength and microstructure features were retained even after charge/discharge cycling of the material which involved substantial changes in intercalation/deintercalation of lithium from the solid material phase.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Finite volume method network for the acceleration of unsteady computational fluid dynamics: Non-reacting and reacting flows Joongoo Jeon, Juhyeong Lee, Sung Joong KimVersion of Record online:29 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7879📷In this study, a neural network model introducing the finite volume method (FVM) with unique network architecture and physics-informed loss function was developed to accelerate CFD simulations. The developed network model, considering the nature of the CFD flow field where the identical governing equations are applied to all grids, can predict the future fields with only two previous fields unlike the CNNs requiring many field images (>10 000). The performance of this baseline model was evaluated using CFD time series data from non-reacting flow and reacting flow simulation; counterflow and hydrogen flame with 20 detailed chemistries.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Atomic insights into combustion mechanism of nano-aluminum hydride Ying Zhao, Deng-Xue Ma, Zheng Mei, Feng-Qi Zhao, Si-Yu Xu, Xue-Hai JuVersion of Record online:29 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7910📷The oxide phase on the surface of nano aluminum hydride presents a branched chain distribution. The oxidation of core-shell aluminum hydride is dominated by the diffusion of aluminum atoms into the oxide layer. At low concentration of O2, the oxidation of nano-aluminum hydride is dominated by bidirectional diffusion of aluminum and O, forming homogeneous oxidation phase during the oxidation process. At high O2 concentration, the oxidation of nano-aluminum hydride is mainly aluminum diffusion, and hollow structure is formed during the oxidation process. Nano-aluminum hydride with small particle size exhibits micro-explosion oxidation. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Biofuel production using fast pyrolysis of various plant waste biomasses in fixed bed and twin-screw reactors Leena Kapoor, Akbar Mohammad, Jay Mant Jha, Neha Srivastava, Sumit Kumar Jana, Mohammad Y. Alshahrani, Irfan Ahmad, Dan Bahadur Pal, Vijai Kumar GuptaVersion of Record online:29 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7904Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS Temperature prediction of lithium-ion batteries based on electrochemical impedance spectrum: A review Dezhi Li, Licheng Wang, Chongxiong Duan, Qiang Li, Kai WangVersion of Record online:29 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7905📷1.Using EIS to predicted the internal temperature of LIBs. 2.The method based on EIS are no required hardware temperature sensors and thermal model. 3. The methods to predict battery temperature based on impedance, phase shift, and intercept frequency are reviewed.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Interface engineering at electron transport/perovskite layers using wetting mesoporous titanium dioxide to fabricate efficient and stable perovskite solar cells Omar A. Khaleel, Duha S. AhmedVersion of Record online:29 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7916📷The improved crystalline properties of the modified perovskite layer facilitate electron extraction at ETL/perovskite interface and reduce charge accumulation, which brings a champion efficiency of 18.72% for the treated devices higher than that of 15.21% for the untreated devices. Moreover, due to the boosted hydrophobic property of the modified perovskite film, the stability behavior of the related PSCs was improved remarkably.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Nitrogen/sulfur co-doping for biomass carbon foam as superior sulfur hosts for lithium-sulfur batteries Xiaoyu Wen, Changfan Zhang, Wei Zhou, Han Chen, Kaixiong XiangVersion of Record online:28 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7858Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Model-based state of X estimation of lithium-ion battery for electric vehicle applications Prashant Shrivastava, Tey Kok Soon, Mohd Yamani Idna Bin Idris, Saad Mekhilef, Syed Bahari Ramadzan Syed AdnanVersion of Record online:28 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7874📷A highly accurate and computationally efficient model-based state of X (SOX) estimation method is proposed to concurrently estimate the different battery states such as state of charge (SOC), state of energy (SOE), state of power (SOP), and state of health (SOH). The experimental results show that the estimated SOC and SOE error is less than 1% under considered dynamic load profile at three different temperatures. After the final convergence, the estimated capacity maximum value absolute error is ±0.08 Ah.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Open AccessMechanically strong and highly ion conductive graphene oxide liquid crystal film containing the poly(amic acid) salt Sangyoon Lee, Hyun-Woo Kim, Yuna Oh, Jaesang Yu, Seongwoo Ryu, Nam-Ho YouVersion of Record online:28 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7861📷Critical role of intercalated polymer at GO composite film for ultimate mechanical strength and ionic conductivityAbstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SiH monolayer: A promising two-dimensional thermoelectric material Aadil Fayaz Wani, Bindu Rani, Shobhna Dhiman, Utkir Bahodirovich Sharopov, Kulwinder KaurVersion of Record online:28 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7889📷In this work, we have systematically investigated structural, stability, electronic and thermoelectric properties of single-layer SiH using first-principle calculations. From the literature survey, there is no report available on the thermoelectric properties of SiH monolayer. This novel study provides unique information about the thermoelectric properties and stability of SiH monolayer.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions A study on lithium-ion battery thermal management system with Al2O3 nanofluids Ozge Yetik, Tahir Hikmet KarakocVersion of Record online:27 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7893Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Enhanced energy storage properties of Sr(Ti0.5Zr0.5)O3 modified (Na0.5Bi0.5)TiO3 ceramics Fanbo Zhang, Zhonghua Dai, Yu Pan, Guoshuai Chen, JingJing Liu, Weiguo Liu, Tomoaki KarakiVersion of Record online:27 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7897📷The addition of STZ reduced the grain size to submicron level, accompanied by relaxation enhancement. The high energy storage properties (Wrec = 1.85 J/cm3, η = 65.92%) were achieved in 0.80Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3-0.20SrTi0.5Zr0.5O3 (BNT-STZ) ceramics at 150 kV/cm. Excellent temperature stability (40°C-160°C) and frequency stability (1-500 Hz) of energy storage performance have been obtained under 100 kV/cm, with the fluctuations below 8%.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Feasibility analysis of Fischer-Tropsch synthesis tail gas as a fuel for solid oxide fuel cells Keyan Wei, Shuai Yue, Xiangjun Hou, Yao Jiang, Cairong Jiang, Yali Yao, Jie Yin, Jianjun MaVersion of Record online:25 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7887📷The Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS) tail gas was evaluated as a fuel in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) by estimating the carbon deposition temperature without a risk of carbon deposition when the SOFC temperature is below 830°C. A high current of 6.5-7.0 A was achieved by feeding 100 mL FTS tail gas. Under reforming, the syngas (H2/CO) ratio is about 2 when it reaches equilibrium states, which can be recycled back into the FTS process.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Strategy improvements to minimize the drawbacks of geothermal investments by using spherical fuzzy modelling Serhat Yüksel, Hasan Dinçer, Serkan Eti, Zafer AdalıVersion of Record online:25 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7880Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Biomass-derived porous carbon and colour-tunable graphene quantum dots for high-performance supercapacitor and selective probe for metal ion detection Maalavika S Iyer, Ilangovan RajangamVersion of Record online:25 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7883📷The present work utilizes biomass (orange peel) for synthesis of graphene quantum dots (GQDs) and porous carbon (OC) for sensing and energy application. Presence of Fe3+ ions quenched the fluorescence of GQDs and the selectivity is studied using other metal ions. Porous OC electrode is employed in three electrode system and is fabricated as asymmetric coin-cell device which delivered specific capacitance of 290.64 F g−1 and 146.9 F g−1, respectively. The device delivered 86% efficiency after 10 000 charge-discharge cycles.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Control of the morphologies of molybdenum disulfide for hydrogen evolution reaction Tuan van Nguyen, Mahider Tekalgne, Thang Phan Nguyen, Wenmeng Wang, Sung Hyun Hong, Jin Hyuk Cho, Quyet van Le, Ho Won Jang, Sang Hyun Ahn, Soo Young KimVersion of Record online:25 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7896📷The synthesis process of various morphologies of MoS2. Ammonium molybdate tetrahydrate-(NH4)6Mo7O24.4H2O, thioacetamide-C2H5CS and various agents including H2O, NH3 28% and HCl 37% were employed to synthesize different morphologies of MoS2 material via a conventional hydrothermal process. The successful preparation of the different morphologies of MoS2 was completely confirmed using various techniques, such as X-ray diffraction, Field emission scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Transmission electron microscopy technique. Interestingly, nitrogen atoms were coincidentally doped in-situ into the materials during the synthesis processes. These doped nitrogen atoms can enhance the electrical conductivity as well as the electrocatalytic properties of the materials. Among synthesized materials, the MoS2 nanohollows material showed remarkable electrocatalytic properties toward the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) with an overpotential of −230 mV at −10 mA.cm−2, Tafel slope of 64 mV.dec−1 and high double-layer capacitance of 11.98 mF.cm−2 which are much better than that of other prepared materials. In addition, the MoS2 nano hollows material shows excellent stability in acidic media, which confirms it is suitable for electrochemical applications. Those advantages can be assigned for the hollow structure of prepared MoS2. Therefore, the MoS2 nano hollows material can be considered as a great material for electrocatalytic applications, including the HER, supercapacitors, and batteries.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES First-principles investigation of structural, optoelectronic, and thermoelectric properties of Cs2Tl(As/Sb)I6 Mukaddar Sk, Saurabh GhoshVersion of Record online:25 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7830📷The predicted direct band gap values are 1.10 and 1.33 eV for Cs2 TlAsI6 and Cs2 TlSbI6, respectively. In addition, the optical studies revealed the higher order of absorption coefficient, appreciable optical conductivity and low reflectivity, which demonstrate that Cs2Tl(As/Sb)I6 compounds are emerging photovoltaic materials. Furthermore, the ultra-low thermal conductivity and high electrical conductivity leads to the large figure of merit values of Cs2 Tl(As/Sb)I6.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Sustainable energy, economic, and environmental impacts of small-scale wind turbines: A comprehensive study Mohamed Elnaggar, Hala J. El-Khozondar, Mohammed J.K. Bashir, Wael A. Salah, Mohammed Al-Agha, Mohammed Abudaqqa, Abdullah El-mabhouhVersion of Record online:25 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7881📷This study aims to bridge the gap in previous research that did not consider studying the economic and environmental benefits of wind energy in Gaza. The study performed on a small-scale turbine for energy production with different rotor diameters. Results show that annual energy of 4851.87 kWh is achieved at rotor diameters of 4.4 m with total saving per year equals to $824.8. It also can reduce CO2 emissions by 4124 kg/yr. The payback period of the turbine was 8.3 years.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES A novel study on activated carbon production based on artificial neural network model: An experimental and artificial intelligence method approach Xuan Wang, Jiangping Yang, Xue Yang, Xin HuVersion of Record online:24 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7857📷A novel artificial neural network (ANN) model was built to predict the production of activated carbon. Different raw material samples were used and in total of nine influencing variables are used in input layer. A total of 113 groups of datasets were collected and used for ANN model training, testing and model validation.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Feasibility study of synthesizing graphene quantum dots from the spent resin in a nuclear power plant to reduce disposal cost Seungbin Yoon, Woo Nyun Choi, Jaehoon Byun, Hee Reyoung KimVersion of Record online:23 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7865📷The feasibility of synthesizing graphene quantum dots from spent resin in a nuclear power plant that was subject to decommissioning was experimentally analyzed. The synthesis of graphene quantum dots was attempted, and the characteristics were analyzed using atomic force microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. The characterization of synthesized graphene quantum dots showed it was possible to recycle the spent resin into graphene quantum dots.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Consideration of graphene material in PCM with aluminum fin structure for improving the battery cooling performance Eyyüp Aslan, Yusuf Aydın, Yusuf YaşaVersion of Record online:23 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7878Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Freestanding V5O12 · 6H2O-CNTs composite films as cathode for foldable aqueous zinc-ion batteries Yan Zhang, Ruoxuan Huang, Yehong Du, Xinyu Wang, Juncai SunVersion of Record online:23 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7885📷Freestanding V5O12 · 6H2O-CNTs cathodes can be directly assembled into soft pack cells. When the soft pack battery was folded to different angles of 90°, 180° and returned to the initial state, the corresponding LED could still be lighted.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Significant role of magnesium substitution in improved performance of layered O3-Na-Mn-Ni-Mg-O cathode material for developing sodium-ion batteries Kouthaman Mathiyalagan, Kannan Karuppiah, Arjunan Ponnaiah, Subadevi Rengapillai, Sivakumar MarimuthuVersion of Record online:22 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7864📷The layered O3-Na0.9Mn0.65Ni0.35O2 cathode materials were prepared via solid state reaction swapped with different contents (0, 0.05, and 0.1) of inactive element Mg. Higher content of sodium (Na) increased the capacity and partial amount of Mg substitution in octahedral site buffers the O-O repulsive force. It leads to enhancement of structural durability during cycling. The capacity retention of O3-Na0.9Mn0.60Ni0.35Mg0.05O2 is 81% after 100th cycle at 0.1C, which is worthier than that of O3-Na0.9Mn0.55Ni0.35Mg0.1O2 (74%) and O3-Na0.9Mn0.65Ni0.35O2 (50%).Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Synthesis and excellent performance of porous Ni2P@C/CNTs nanocomposite derived from Ni-MOFs as an anode for lithium-ion batteries Chengli Yao, Jianglin Xu, Yuhua Shen, Anjian XieVersion of Record online:22 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7888📷Porous Ni2P@C/CNTs nanocomposites were successfully synthesized via annealing and phosphating Ni-MOFs precursor, which showed excellent electrochemical stability as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Planar perovskite solar cells: Plasmonic nanoparticles-modified ZnO as an electron transport layer for enhancing the device performance and stability at ambient conditions Nandhakumar Eswaramoorthy, Kamatchi RajaramVersion of Record online:22 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7876📷This manuscript investigates the powder press technique-based plasmonic nanoparticles (Ag and Au) coupled ZnO act as electron transport layer (ETL) and interfacial layer (IL) in planar perovskite solar cells. ZnO/Au-based device achieved in PCE of 5.50% as ETL and 6.41% of IL under ambient conditions. Also, ZnO/Au interfacial layered-based PSCs exhibits improved stability, retaining ~93% and ~82% of initial PCE under AM 1.5 G illumination and UV light conditions.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS Review on technology of making biofuel from food waste Jing Zeng, Hui Zeng, Zhenjun WangVersion of Record online:22 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7868Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Open AccessDual-function electrochromic supercapacitor with graphene electrode Jisu Han, Gyu-Hyeon Jang, Dae Kyom Kim, Joo Yeon Kim, Jin Wook Shin, Chi-Sun Hwang, Yuanzhe Piao, Tae-Dong KimVersion of Record online:22 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7882📷Dual-function electrochromic supercapacitor device is promising for smart energy-generating WINDOW application.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Hybrid algorithm for parameter estimation of fuel cell Beant Singh, Parag Nijhawan, Manish Kumar Singla, Jyoti Gupta, Parminder SinghVersion of Record online:21 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7863Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Co-MOF derived MoSe2@CoSe2/N-doped carbon nanorods as high-performance anode materials for potassium ion batteries Hong Geun Oh, Seung-Keun ParkVersion of Record online:21 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7866📷A 1D hybrid nanostructure comprising a MoSe2 core and a CoSe2/N-doped carbon shell (MC-Se@NC) is successfully synthesized by thermal treatment of ZIF-67 coated MoO3 nanorods. The unique 1D morphology and synergistic effect between the different elements provide sufficient electrochemical reaction sites and facilitate the reaction kinetics. Further, the N-doped carbon alleviates the volume fluctuation and pulverization of the active materials during cycling and improves the electrode conductivity. Accordingly, the MC-Se@NC composite exhibits superior cycling performance and rate capabilities for KIBs.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Effect of surfactant on the TiO2 microencapsulation of Thermochromic materials Abdullatif Hakami, Prasanta K Biswas, Yusuf Emirov, Elias K. Stefanakos, Sesha S. SrinivasanVersion of Record online:18 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7856📷Methodology and mechanism of core-shell nanoparticles formation of TiO2 microencapsulated thermochromic materials.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions New energy dominant technology diffusion mechanism based on cellular automation model—The case of the current market and policy environment Hongying Wang, Bing SunVersion of Record online:18 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7850📷Based on the existing research, the paper obtains the leading technology diffusion chart, builds the model and verifies it by simulation software.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Theoretical investigation of physical properties of Sr2XNbO6 (X = La, Lu) double perovskite oxides for optoelectronic and thermoelectric applications Anam Hanif, Shatha A. Aldaghfag, Asima Aziz, Muhammad Yaseen, Adil MurtazaVersion of Record online:18 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7862Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS Open AccessThe microencapsulation, thermal enhancement, and applications of medium and high-melting temperature phase change materials: A review Rizal Sinaga, Jo Darkwa, Siddig A. Omer, Mark WorallVersion of Record online:18 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7860📷This paper mainly focused on reviewing microencapsulation techniques, thermal enhancement, including the application of medium- and high-melting temperature of solid-liquid phase change materials (PCMs) ranging from 80°C to 200°C and above 200°C, respectively. The comparison study for various types of medium- and high-temperature PCMs, their microencapsulation methods, including heat transfer improvement, were provided to achieve optimized microencapsulated PCMs. This review also exhibited the harvested solar energy and industrial waste heat by utilizing PCMs with the aim of sustainable energy development.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Mesh patterned electrolyte supports for high-performance solid oxide fuel cells Cigdem Timurkutluk, Tolga Altan, Sezer Onbilgin, Fuat Yildirim, Mikail Yagiz, Bora TimurkutlukVersion of Record online:18 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7872📷The surface of solid oxide fuel cell electrolyte is decorated with different patterns by mesh pressing to improve the cell performance by increasing the surface area of electrolyte–electrode interfaces. Among the cases studied, the cell treated with a woven mesh having 0.575-mm wire diameter and 2-mm mesh gap on a side exhibits the highest maximum performance of 0.626 W cm−2 at 800°C, whereas that of the reference cell is only 0.320 W cm−2, indicating that the performance of the reference cell can be almost doubled by the simple method suggested in this study.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Pyrolysis of lignocellulosic and algal biomasses in a fixed-bed reactor: A comparative study on the composition and application potential of bioproducts Mokhtar Akhound Babatabar, Farnaz Yousefian, Mahshid V. Mousavi, Mohammad Hosseini, Ahmad TavasoliVersion of Record online:17 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7855📷The potential of several lignocellulosic and algal biomass pyrolysis products for future applications were discussed. Coconut and Walnut shell bio-oils potentially suitable as a source of biofuels. Walnut shell, Azolla and Rice husk biogas can be good sources for generating power.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions An extensive investigation of structural, electronic, optical, magnetic, and thermoelectric properties of NaMnAsO4 cluster by first-principles calculations N. Baaalla, H. Absike, Y. Ammari, E.K. Hlil, R. Masrour, A. Benyoussef, A. El KenzVersion of Record online:17 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7827Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Physical engineering of anti-solvents in perovskite precipitation for enhanced photosensitive affinity Byung Gi Kim, Woongsik Jang, Ji Hyun Lim, Dong Hwan WangVersion of Record online:17 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7843📷We focus on aromatic solvents with different functional groups as anti-solvents considering the interactions with each solvent.The interfacial affinity of perovskite layer induced uniform morphology of the interlayer.Chlorobenzene-treated perovskite photodetector exhibits superior detectivity and fast response speed owing to improved charge dynamic behavior.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Modular energy management system with Jaya algorithm for hybrid energy storage in electric vehicles Akif Demircali, Selim KorogluVersion of Record online:17 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7848📷A Jaya-based modular EMS is proposed to optimize power sharing between battery and ultracapacitor (UC) for an EV. In this system, battery is connected to DC bus directly, and UC is connected via a bidirectional DC-DC converter. This converter provides the power flow between the DC bus and the UC as well as perform the proposed EMS algorithm. Experimental validation of the Jaya-based EMS is performed and its performance is evaluated by comparing it with the rule-based EMS. The proposed Jaya-based modular EMS method has less lossy alternative solution for the real-time applications and increases the life of the battery considerably. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions A binder-free bivalent manganese oxide cathode elective structure with high activity in aqueous zinc ion batteries Van-Chuong Ho, Si Hyoung Oh, Junyoung MunVersion of Record online:17 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7841📷Manganese-based oxides are being actively studied as cathode materials for AZIBs because of their high capacity, cost-effectiveness, safety, and eco-friendliness. Herein, we propose the first bivalent manganese oxide with the chemical composition of Mn5O8 deposited on stainless steel as a cathode of AZIBs. Mn5O8 nanoparticles with a layered structure, which provide a facile pathway for Zn2+ ion transport and diffusion, were directly deposited on a three-dimensional stainless steel mesh via a hydrothermal method using different temperatures. The Mn5O8 cathode material exhibited a high specific capacity of 254.98 mAh g−1, and simultaneously demonstrated satisfactory reversible charge/discharge and high rate performance. The Zn2+ insertion/extraction behaviors were studied in detail by cyclic voltammetry. In addition, factors that influence the electrochemical performance of the cathode, such as the phase structure and particle size of manganese dioxide, are discussed. The smaller and homogeneous Mn5O8 particles provide a large interface area and facilitate more zinc ions for diffusion, leading to improved ionic current and specific capacity.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Synergistic effect to enhance hydrogen generation of Fe2O3/Ce0.8Sm0.1Gd0.1O1.9 in water-gas shift with chemical looping Yingwei Xiong, Jinglan Wang, Min Jin, Xiaohong WangVersion of Record online:16 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7842📷Gd3+ and Sm3+ co-doped CeO2 improved the oxygen defect concentration of oxygen carriers, boosting the redox reactivity. The formation of CeSm0.1Gd0.1O1.9 suppressed CeFeO3 formation, providing more oxygen capacity for hydrogen generation. Therefore, Fe2O3/Ce0.8Sm0.1Gd0.1O1.9 shows record performance.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Design and analysis of cascade liquefaction processes for coproducing liquid ethane and LNG Ting He, Wensheng Lin, Zhimin DuVersion of Record online:16 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7852📷Novel cascade natural gas liquefaction processes with or without flash gas recovery are proposed to coproduce high-purity ethane and LNG. The influence of distillation pressure on the specific power consumption of the system is analyzed to search the optimal conditions of distillation column. According to the optimization results of the genetic algorithm, the process with flash gas recovery is preferable in energy consumption and material waste aspect, with a specific power consumption of 0.4336 ~ 0.4503 kWh/Nm3(NG) when ethane content is 10% ~ 40%.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS Recent advances in MXene as electrocatalysts for sustainable energy generation: A review on surface engineering and compositing of MXene Himadri Tanaya Das, Tamilarasan Elango Balaji, Swapnamoy Dutta, Nigamananda Das, Thandavarayan MaiyalaganVersion of Record online:16 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7847📷MXene, a resourceful electrocatalyst to be applied in HER, OER, and ORR applications. Owing to its unique features, MXene-based nanocomposites are explored worldwide. Simple processing techniques, have garnered researchers to engineer it for further improvements like surface modifications/forming hybrids, achieving benchmark for implementations in water splitting, fuel cells, or air batteries, various approaches have been considered by different research groups. The recent trend in challenges and opportunities in MXenes hybrids have been discussed in this review to invite motivated researchers.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Stochastic multi-objective expansion of renewable resources in distribution systems incorporating responsive loads towards achieving zero energy structure T. Ostadi Azari, V. Sohrabi Tabar, S. TohidiVersion of Record online:16 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7837📷The results validate that using one type of renewable resources cannot resolve the pollution problem due to uncertainties even with high investment costs. The simulations also approve that the implemented DRP has a high impact such that it decreases the investment cost by 49.29%. Furthermore, the uncertainty of renewable resources increases the cost from 5.04 million $ to 5.34 million $ in the presence of responsive loads. However, the system will be robust against at least 6% of fluctuations.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Binder free heteroatom-doped graphene oxide as high energy density electrodes for supercapacitor applications Umar Latif, Mohsin Ali Raza, Zaeem Ur Rehman, Javaid Iqbal, Naesung Lee, Syed Muhammad Zain Mehdi, Muhammad Faheem Maqsood, Sajjad HussainVersion of Record online:16 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7835📷Facile single-step binder-free synthesis of GO using hydrothermal process. Investigate the effect of heteroatom doping of GO on capacitive behavior. Nitrogen-doped (N-)G0 exhibited superior charge storage capacity with a high specific capacitance of 855 at 1 m Vs−1. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions The use of urea as an N-doping 3D hierarchical preserving agent for titanium dioxide nanostructures tailored for dye-sensitized solar cells Vinodhini Jayapal, Selvapriya Rangasamy, Sasirekha Venkidusamy, Ragavendran Venkatesan, Jeyanthinath Mayandi, Joshua M. PearceVersion of Record online:16 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7823📷TiO2 morphology was systematically tailored by nitrogen-dopant concentration. 3D hierarchical N-doped TiO2 nanostructures were obtained using a microwave technique. N-doped TiO2 screen-printed photoelectrodes were used in DSSCs, and photo-responses were evaluated.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions TECHNICAL NOTES Compressibility factor calculation from gross calorific value and relative density for natural gas energy measurement Pu Zhang, Li Zhou, Wenxiao XuVersion of Record online:15 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7772📷If the Z-factor accuracy of 0.3% required by the natural gas energy metering system is to be achieved, the accuracy of gross calorific value and relative density determined by calorimeters shall be within ±0.5% at least for most natural gases. When the gross calorific value and relative density deviate in the opposite direction from their respective reference value in a specific range, the accuracy of the Z-factor calculated by the improved SGERG-88 algorithm can be elevated.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES NiFe-layered double hydroxide nanosheets grafted onto carbon nanotubes for functional separator of lithium sulfur batteries Qing Liu, Xiaotong Han, Qingyun Dou, Peixun Xiong, Yingbo Kang, Bo-Kyong Kim, Ho Seok ParkVersion of Record online:15 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7832📷2D NiFe-LDH nanosheets grown onto the surface of reticular OCNT are grafted onto the separators to form highly conductive composites that include enriched surface active sites and interconnected conducting channels. Accordingly, the electrochemical performances and cycling stability of lithium sulfur batteries are greatly improved using the NiFe-LDH@OCNT/PP composite separators.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Multipoint layout planning method for multi-energy sources based on time-series production simulation Xun Suo, Shuqiang Zhao, Yanfeng MaVersion of Record online:15 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7808Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Empirical approach for configuring high-entropy catalysts in alkaline water electrolysis Juhae Park, Hyunki Kim, Soo Young Kim, Sang Hyun AhnVersion of Record online:15 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7849📷Empirical approach using 30 multi-metallic catalysts provides insight to design high-performance catalyst for alkaline water electrolysis.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Optimized cobalt and graphitic carbon hybrid catalysts derived from zeolite imidazolate framework for oxygen evolution reaction Taeoh Kang, GeunHyeong Lee, Jooheon KimVersion of Record online:15 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7853📷In this work, we simply synthesized optimized Co/NC by varying the Co and Zn ratio and confirmed that the structure of surface area and the Co particle size and dispersion were changed by adding Zn species. Finally, we revealed that the Co:Zn ratio of 1:3 is the most optimal ratio for OER catalytic activity.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Study of substrate-free microporous layer of proton exchange membrane fuel cells Manli Wang, Ming Hou, Yanyan Gao, Haiping Chen, Bo Lv, Wei Song, Zhigang ShaoVersion of Record online:15 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7851📷sfMPL is prepared by a dry-press method with the advantages of operational simplicity, solvent-free, and excellent reproducibility. Benefiting from a suitable pore size distribution, sfMPL broadens the useable humidity range for PEMFC. The optimized sfMPL-2 delivered improved single-cell performance compared with C-GDL at all humidity ranges.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions A novel dynamic contact angle model of lattice Boltzmann method for water droplet impact on proton exchange membrane fuel cell channel surface Bifeng Yin, Sheng Xu, Hekun Jia, Fei DongVersion of Record online:15 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7859Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Carbon derived from treated rice husk as fuel for direct carbon fuel cells Shuai Yue, Can Cui, Keyan Wei, Yao Jiang, Zhichuan Bai, Jianjun Ma, Chami N.K. Patabendige, Cairong JiangVersion of Record online:15 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7854📷The electrochemical performance of rice husks with different pretreatment methods performed in SO-DCFC is compared in this paper. Co-treatment of rice husk with acid and alkali effectively removes the ash and increases the content of carbon and oxygen, leading to an improvement of the output power and a good durability of up to 100 hours under 0.7 V at 750°C.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Intrinsic size-dependent activity of Pt nanoparticles without masking by heterogeneous oxidation states of Pt for hydrolytic dehydrogenation of NH3BH3 Youngwon Ju, Taehoon Cho, Kichul Lee, Jiwoong Kim, Chang Won Yoon, Joohoon KimVersion of Record online:15 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7846📷We investigated intrinsic size-dependent activity of Pt nanoparticles encapsulated inside dendrimers for hydrolytic dehydrogenation of ammonia borane in the size range of 1 to 4 nm without masking by heterogeneous oxidation states of Pt. Five differently sized Pt nanoparticles exhibited significant catalytic activity for hydrolytic dehydrogenation of ammonia borane under mild conditions. The catalytic activity of Pt nanoparticles was sensitive to size even with subnanometer changes in the range of small sizes less that 4 nm. The size-dependent activity of Pt nanoparticles was geometric in nature, primarily due to the square face Pt atoms as the dominant active sites for the catalytic dehydrogenation of ammonia borane. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE REVIEW PAPERS Recent advance on machine learning of MXenes for energy storage and conversion Chengfei Qian, Kaiwen Sun, Weizhai BaoVersion of Record online:14 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7833📷Application schematic diagram of machine learning in MXene filtering. Compared with trial-and-error experiments and experiments with high-throughput DFT, machine learning combined with high-throughput screening has absolute advantages in experimental period.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Comparative evaluation of artificial neural networks for the performance prediction of Pt-based catalysts in water gas shift reaction Changsu Kim, Jiyong KimVersion of Record online:14 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7829📷We analyzed the capabilities (accuracy, stability, and computation time) of four distinct artificial neural networks (ANNs) algorithms (MLP, LSTM, RNN, and GRU) for catalysis prediction and applied them to a catalytic water gas shift reaction to predict the CO conversion of various Pt-based catalysts.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Transition-metal-based pentalene complexes as hydrogen storage materials—a theoretical view Saba Niaz, Altaf Hussain PandithVersion of Record online:14 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7796📷Transition metal doped pentalene complexes [C8H6TM2 and B2C6H6TM2 (TM = Sc, Ti, and V)] and these complexes can store upto 4 to 8 H2 molecules, with a hydrogen storage capacity of 3.68 wt% to 7.73 wt%.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Functionalized graphene oxide/polyvinylidene fluoride composite membrane acting as a triboelectric layer for hydropower energy harvesting Duy Linh Vu, Chau Duy Le, Kyoung Kwan AhnVersion of Record online:14 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7824📷A F-GO/PVDF membrane acting as a triboelectric layer for energy harvesting was first prepared. The polarization and dielectric constant of the F-GO/PVDF membrane was significantly enhanced. The power density of the F-GO/PVDF TENG was obtained at 2.08 W/m2, which is 9 times more than PVDF TENG. The TENG device retain 90% of the output voltage after more than 4000 cyclesAbstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Effects of physical dimensions, temperature ranges and interfacial thermal contacts on the multi-stage thermoelectric generators for a hypersonic vehicle Jian-Jun Gou, Jia-Xin Hu, Zheng-Wei Yan, Ge Gao, Chun-Lin GongVersion of Record online:14 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7799📷The multi-stage TEGs are designed and optimized under hypersonic thermal conditions, the influences of interfacial thermal contacts are studied by two-scale simulations and the TEG system is designed and evaluated for a hypersonic vehicle.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Electrochemical properties of yolk-shell structured cobalt hydroxy chloride-carbon composite as an anode for lithium-ion batteries Dae Hyun Kim, Gi Dae Park, Yun Chan KangVersion of Record online:14 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7845📷In this study, yolk-shell structured cobalt hydroxy chloride @ carbon compounds were synthesized eco-friendly by infiltration and following hydroxylation process. Generated powders formed heterojunction structures of cobalt hydoxide and cobalt chloride and exhibited excellent cycle performance as an anode material for LiB.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Hoisting the photovoltaic performance by photocharging and plasmonic effect via aminosilane-protected silver/barium titanate for dye-sensitized solar cells K. S. Shalini Devi, K. B. Bhojanaa, N. Pavithra, A. PandikumarVersion of Record online:14 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7840📷Illustration of increase in JSC and VOC corresponds to plasmonic and photocharging effect by the presence of monoamino silicate-bounded silver over barium titanate leads to increase in the efficiency and electron life time.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Open AccessElectroreduction of CO2 to CH4 without overpotential using Pt-black catalysts: Enhancement of faradaic efficiency Shofu Matsuda, Yuta Yoshida, Minoru UmedaVersion of Record online:11 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7836📷The faradaic efficiency for selective CH4 generation from CO2 reduction reached 23.2% without overpotential using a Pt-black electrocatalyst. Decreasing the carbon content of Pt/C catalyst improved the CH4 generation efficiency.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Core design selection for a long-life modular gas-cooled fast reactor using OpenMC code Helen Raflis, Zaki Su'ud, Abdul Waris, Dwi IrwantoVersion of Record online:11 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7812Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Two parameters identification for polarization curve fitting of PEMFC based on genetic algorithm Jun Shen, Changqing Du, Fuwu Yan, Ben Chen, Zhengkai TuVersion of Record online:10 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7831📷The manuscript entitled "Two parameters identification for polarization curve fitting of PEMFC based on genetic algorithm " is prepared by Jun Shen, Changqing Du, Fuwu Yan* et al. The steady and transient models are proposed for PEMFC polarization curve fitting. Exchange current density and charge transfer coefficient are selected as variables. Genetic algorithm is employed for performance fitting, and the concentration effect is considered for the extension of polarization curves under different operating conditions.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Support effect in Cu-based catalysts for vapor phase dehydrogenation of 1-decanol to decanal using CO2 as a soft oxidant Prathap Challa, Siva Sankar Enumula, Gidyonu Paleti, Mallesh Dosali, David Raju Burri, Seetha Rama Rao KamarajuVersion of Record online:10 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7793📷Cu/MgO catalyst is a backbone for dehydrogenation of 1-decanol and delivered the highest conversion of 1-decanol as 87% and 98.7% selectivity to decanal in CO2 flow at 523 K than remaining all supported Cu catalysts due to the present high basic sites and strong interactions between Cu0 and MgO support.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Ultrahigh thermopower waves in carbon nanotube-antimony telluride composites enabled by thermal decomposition of formaldehyde Byungseok Seo, Incheol Shin, Youngsun Cha, Kyungmin Kim, Wonjoon ChoiVersion of Record online:10 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7839📷Formaldehyde-activated carbon nanotube and Sb2Te3 composites enable ultralong and ultrahigh thermopower waves. Pre-decomposed retardants of carbon oxides and carbonate from formaldehyde support sustained time, while the optimal ratio of carbon nanotubes-Sb2Te3, and the evaporation of Te species in Sb2Te3 and its oxidation to Sb2O3-Sb2O5 lead to high power and energy density compared with conventional thermopower waves.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Co/Zn-based bimetallic MOF-derived hierarchical porous Co/C composite as cathode material for high-performance lithium-air batteries Seoyoon Shin, Yeowon Yoon, Moo Whan ShinVersion of Record online:10 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7818📷The graphic table of contents is a schematic representation of a cobalt/porous carbon composite derived on a Co/Zn-bimetallic metal-organic framework (MOF). Cobalt and zinc clusters of Co/Zn-bimetallic MOF were utilized as catalyst precursors and sacrificial templates for pore generation, respectively. The Co/C composite provides excellent diffusion of lithium ions and oxygen in the electrode/electrolyte and makes it a suitable electrode material for lithium-air batteries.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Design and experimental evaluation of a PV/T system cooled by advanced methods Hussein A. Kazem, Miqdam T. Chaichan, Kamaruzzaman SopianVersion of Record online:10 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7838📷This study presents a numerical design and experimental evaluation of a PV/T system cooled by nano-PCM and nanofluid. Nano-Silicon Carbide particles were employed with the paraffin. The study examined various aspects of the system such as the optimum mass flow rate of nanofluid, voltage and current of the PV module, thermal energy of collector, and efficiency. The significance of this study is demonstrated by the result as this design led to maximum thermal and electrical efficiencies of 72% and 13.7%.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Low-temperature crystallization and growth of CsPbIBr2 films through PbX2-DMSO adduct towards stable and efficient carbon-based all-inorganic perovskite solar cells Akanksha Choubey, Nagapandiselvi Perumal, Santhosh Narendhiran, Senthil Pandian Muthu, Ramasamy PerumalsamyVersion of Record online:10 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7807📷PbX2-DMSO adducts driven crystallization of CsPbIBr2 perovskite film leads to large grain size, defects passivation and enhanced crystallinity. The carbon-based C-IPSCs based on adduct modified perovskite display high photovoltage, upgraded efficiency and ambient stability.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Combined direct oxy-combustion and concentrated solar supercritical carbon dioxide power system—Thermo, exergoeconomic, and quadruple optimization analyses Ahmad K. Sleiti, Wahib A. Al-AmmariVersion of Record online:09 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7825Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions In2S3 nanosheets growing on sheet-like g-C3N4 as high-performance photocatalyst for H2 evolution under visible light Bingrong Guo, Bin Liu, Xinqiang Zhang, Junhong Lu, Chaoli Wang, Yuhua Wang, Shu Yin, Weihua HanVersion of Record online:08 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7791📷In2S3 nanosheets were hydrothermally grown on sheet-like g-C3N4 to form Z-schemed photocatalyst. Highly efficient separation and transfer of photo carriers have been realized. A favorable H2 evolution rate, up to 307 μmol g−1 h−1 under 300 W Xe lamp illustration, has been achieved. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Improved omnidirectional polarisation-insensitive optical absorption and photoelectrochemical water splitting using aperiodic and tapered slanted, kinked and straight silicon nanowires Adhila T. K., Nasima Khatun, Somnath C. Roy, Harish C. BarshiliaVersion of Record online:08 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7805📷The aperiodic-tapered-kinked straight silicon nanowires (SiNWs) is fabricated by two-step metal-assisted chemical etching. The kinked SiNWs show high absorption and good solar-driven photoelectrochemical water splitting. The multiple reflection or optical path length of the light inside the nanowires is controlled by the morphology of the nanowires.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Poly(poly[ethylene glycol] methyl ether methacrylate)/graphene oxide nanocomposite gel polymer electrolytes prepared by controlled and conventional radical polymerizations for lithium ion batteries Mahtab Hamrahjoo, Saeed Hadad, Elham Dehghani, Mehdi Salami-Kalajahi, Hossein Roghani-MamaqaniVersion of Record online:08 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7788📷P(PEGMA)/GO nanocomposites as GPEs for high-performance Li-ion batteries are introduced. The impact of synthesis processes including free radical polymerization (FRP) and reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization as controlled radical polymerization (CRP) on the electrochemical properties of GPEs is investigated. The effect of increasing GO content on electrochemical properties and performance of LIB is also investigated.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Robust parameter identification strategy of solid oxide fuel cells using bald eagle search optimization algorithm Hegazy Rezk, Seydali Ferahtia, Enas Taha Sayed, Mohammad Ali Abdelkareem, A. G. OlabiVersion of Record online:08 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7790Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Research on optimal placement of low-carbon equipment capacity in integrated energy system considering carbon emission and carbon trading Xiaoou LiuVersion of Record online:08 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7826Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions A real time state of charge estimation using Harris Hawks optimization-based filtering approach for electric vehicle power batteries Maheshwari Adaikkappan, Nageswari SathiyamoorthyVersion of Record online:08 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7806📷In this paper, the impact of Noise Covariance matrices (Q and R) on SOC estimation is analyzed, then the Harris Hawks Optimization (HHO) algorithm based EKF is proposed. As a first step, HHO is employed to obtain the optimal values of noise covariance matrices. In the second step, optimized matrix values are injected into the EKF, which confirms the filter accuracy in the SOC estimation.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Improved energy conversion of a photovoltaic module-thermoelectric generator hybrid system with different cooling techniques: Indoor and outdoor performance comparison D. Chandan, U. C. Arunachala, K. VarunVersion of Record online:07 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7820📷Wick cooling proved the best based on energy conversion and conservation criteria. Comprehensive analyses indicated performance variation during indoor and outdoor tests. The sensitivity of photovoltaic and thermoelectric generators to cooling is highlighted. The practicality of a hybrid system based on system power generation is discussed. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Realization of the optimal sizing of local hybrid photovoltaic and wind energy systems with load scheduling capacity Majdi Saidi, Zhongliang Li, Seifeddine Ben Elghali, Rachid OutbibVersion of Record online:06 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7828📷The effect of demand side management on local energy system design is investigated, and a sizing approach integrating load scheduling consideration is proposed. A two-level optimization method is applied to solve the integrated sizing problem. It is found that load scheduling has the potential to promote the use of renewable energy for local consumption and should be better considered at the system design stage. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Development of multiwalled carbon nanotubes/polyaniline nanocomposites based electrolyte for quasi-solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells Marriyam Sultana, Umer Mehmood, Rabia Nazar, Yasir Qayyum GillVersion of Record online:06 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7822📷Energy harvesting approach can be used to fuel portable, self-contained devices MWCNTs/PANI nanocomposite were synthesized by the in-situ polymerization process. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and Fourier-transform infrared confirmed the dispersion and interaction between the ingredients of composites MWCNTs/PANI nanocomposite were employed as host material in the preparation of quasi-solid-state electrolytes Conductivity of electrolytes affects the photovoltaic performance of quasi solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells Effect of multiwalled carbon nanotubes concentration on photovoltaic parameters of dye-sensitized solar cellsAbstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Geothermal resources for sustainable development: A case study Alper Baba, Dornadula ChandrasekharamVersion of Record online:06 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7778📷Turkey can move toward low carbon foot print based sustainable development approach by utilizing its hydrothermal and EGS sources and reduce CO2 emissions below the current 500 Mt and also reduce per-capita CO2 emissions below 4.5 tons annually.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Towards high tin-based halide organic-inorganic perovskite photovoltaic cells efficiency improvement: SCAPS 1D modeling Guy Maurel Dzifack Kenfack, Fridolin Tchangnwa Nya, Amel LarefVersion of Record online:06 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7774Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Conceptual design of a new space nuclear reactor with low-enriched uranium fuel based on the optimization of fuel composition and reflector geometry via optimized adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system as well as investigation of fresh core cycle length Meysam Rafiei, Gholamreza AnsarifarVersion of Record online:05 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7817Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Simultaneous improvement of power density and durability of sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) membrane by embedding CeO2-ATiO2: A comprehensive study in low humidity proton exchange membrane fuel cells Hariprasad Ranganathan, Mohanraj Vinothkannan, Ae Rhan Kim, Vijayapradeep Subramanian, Min-Suk Oh, Dong Jin YooVersion of Record online:05 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7781📷Proton conductive and antioxidative CeO2-ATiO2 facilitates proton conductivity and radical-scavenging ability in sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) hybrid membrane, leading to efficient and durable performance in low humidity proton exchange membrane fuel cell.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Analysis and feasibility of integrating a new and novel hybrid solar chimney power plant with a traditional electrical grid Eyad Almaita, Emad Abdelsalam, Hamza Al Nawafah, Saleh AlShkoor, Fares AlmomaniVersion of Record online:05 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7795📷The integration between hybrid solar chimney power plant (HSCPP) with a medium voltage distribution grid was presented. The integration of HSCPP with smart grid was monitored using CYME software. Performance parameters with and without HSCPP was compared. The integration process reduced voltage deviation by around 0.9%, decrease the power losses by 0.33%, and decrease the power factor to 0.74. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Metal-organic framework coordinated with cobalt ion as charge recombination retarder in dye-sensitized solar cells Muhammad Younas, Mohammed Ashraf Gondal, Mohamed A. Dastageer, Aasif HelalVersion of Record online:04 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7809📷Schematic diagram of Co-MOF199-based DSSCAbstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Bismuth and its nanocomposite: Reaction mechanism and rational nanocomposite fabrication process for superior sodium-ion battery anodes Ki-Hun Nam, Vinoth Ganesan, Do-Hyeon Kim, Jeong-Hee Choi, Cheol-Min ParkVersion of Record online:03 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7819📷Na reaction pathway of Bi was analyzed using various cutting-edge ex situ analysis tools, and a rational design of Bi-based nanocomposite materials is provided for application to high-performance NIB anodes.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Research on spray cooling performance based on battery thermal management Tingting Wu, Changhong Wang, Yanxin Hu, Xianbo Fan, Changxiang FanVersion of Record online:03 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7775Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Simultaneous allocation of EV charging stations and renewable energy sources: An Elite RERNN-m2MPA approach V. J. Vijayalakshmi, Prakash Arumugam, A. Ananthi Christy, R. BrindhaVersion of Record online:03 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7780Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Optimization of energy-capture performance of point-absorber wave energy converter Baocheng Zhang, Ziwei Deng, Yu Miao, Bo Zhao, Qiang Wang, Kaisheng ZhangVersion of Record online:03 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7816📷An optimization process is proposed for improving the energy-harvesting efficiency of the point-absorber WEC and thus enhancing the utilization of wave energy resources. The method integrates experimental design, approximate modeling, and algorithmic optimization. A comparison indicates that a cylindrical-bottom point-absorber WEC with a diameter of 7 m, draft of 1.8 m, and damping factor of 31 150 Ns·m−1 has the optimal performance and the maximum energy capture capacity. The energy-capture performance of the WEC can be significantly enhanced through this optimization method.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Zr-promoted nickel-rich spinel-supported Ni catalysts with enhanced performance for selective CO methanation Dan Ping, Yinbei Wan, Xinyuan Zhao, Jianming Geng, Xinfa DongVersion of Record online:02 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7789📷Highly efficient Zr-promoted nickel-rich spinel-supported Ni catalyst was successfully synthesized and employed in CO selective methanation for hydrogen-rich gas purification. ZrO2 species effectively increased the sorption capacities for both H2 and CO and facilitated the dissociation of CO in the catalyst surfaces. The catalyst displayed high catalytic activity, selectivity in a wide low-temperature window, and showed good stability and strong anticoking ability.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Robust optimum distribution network scheduling with distributed generations, electric vehicles, and storage units Mohammad Nasrollahi, Behdad Arandian, Mehdi BaharizadehVersion of Record online:02 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7815📷In this study, a robust optimization is proposed for distribution network power flow with technical constraints, such as bus voltage limits and transmission line limits. Equations governing electric vehicles, energy storage units, and distributed generations are also considered in the model. The problem is nonlinear, hence, to achieve the absolute optimum with a fast resolve, a linear model with a very low calculation error is suggested.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Prediction on enhanced electrochemical discharge machining behaviors of zirconia-silicon nitride using hybrid DNN based spotted hyena optimization Vijay Manoharan, Sekar TamilperuvalathanVersion of Record online:02 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7797📷The analysis of Electrochemical Discharge machining of Zirconia composites is one of the novel ideas focused in this research paper. The nitrides of silicon enhance the spark intensity effect and thus machinability of zirconia tends to be enhanced. The experimentally found machining characteristics are validated using Hybrid deep Neural Network. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Role of dual redox additives KI/VOSO4 in manganese ammonium phosphate at graphene quantum dots for supercapattery Thomai Arul Raja, Palanisamy VickramanVersion of Record online:02 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7787📷The present investigation “The role of dual redox additives KI/VOSO4 for improvisation of electrochemical performance on manganese ammonium phosphate at optimized mass dispersoid graphene quantum dots hybrid electrode for supercapattery applications” by T. Arul Raja, Palanisamy Vickraman* is a first time report of its kind. The authors fabricated the supercapattery (supercapacitor + battery = supercapattery) device with graphene quantum dots dispersoid manganese ammonium phosphate // rGO electrodes and successfully achieved a higher energy density of 311 Wh kg−1 at 1 Ag−1 with KI/VOSO4 dual redox additives in H2SO4 aqueous electrolyte with the cell potential of 1.8 V Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Formation of solid-solution CoxNi1−xCO3 as high-performance anode materials for lithium-ion batteries Yuyan Wang, Zhiwei Zhao, Yamin Zhang, Linrui Hou, Changzhou YuanVersion of Record online:02 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7813📷The solid-solution CoxNi1−xCO3 microstructures are fabricated just by changing the content of precipitant via solvothermal strategy, and the optimized CNCO-20 with a larger surface area (41.5 m2 g−1) exhibits a high initial Coulombic efficiency of 83.0%, a high-rate reversible capacity of 828.1 mAh g−1 at 2.0 A g−1, and attractive long-duration cycle behaviors at 1.0 A g−1, thanks to its unique solid-solution structure and the synergism of binary components.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Optimization of novel nonaqueous hexanol-based monoethanolamine/methyl diethanolamine solvent for CO2 absorption Neslisah Ulus, Shafeeq Ahmed Syed Ali, Omar Khalifa, Ozge Yuksel Orhan, Ali ElkamelVersion of Record online:02 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7779📷Absorption-based methods are most promising of carbon capture technology. Studies primarily focus on aqueous blends of amine solvents. Aqueous amine blends are limited by the energy intensity for solvent regeneration. Nonaqueous/water-lean amine solvents are found to be more energy efficient. Mixture design is employed for statistical modeling. Response surface methodology is used to optimize the blend concentration. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Transition metal dichalcogenide nanostructured electrodes without calcination for aqueous asymmetric supercapacitors Sk. Khaja Hussain, B. N. Vamsi Krishna, Jae Su YuVersion of Record online:02 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7814📷Mixed-phase flower-like NiMo3S4/NiS2 nanostructures were grown on carbon cloth (CC). Reaction temperature-dependent NiMo3S4/NiS2@CC experiments were investigated. NiMo3S4/NiS2@CC-210 showed the higher specific capacity of 1448 F g−1 (480 C g−1 at 1 A g−1) than the single electrodes. An ASC device showed the energy density of 43.8 W h kg−1 and power density of 12 853 W kg−1.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Nanocomposite proton exchange membranes based on sulfonated polyethersulfone and functionalized quantum dots for fuel cell application Khadijeh Hooshyari, Mohammad Bagher Karimi, Huaneng Su, Shahrzad Rahmani, Hamid Reza RajabiVersion of Record online:02 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7794📷In this work novel nanocomposite proton exchange membranes were prepared using sulfonated polyethersulfone (SPES) with incorporation of ZnS functionalized quantum dots (FQDs) with a solution-casting method. The effect of functionalized groups (–COOH and NH2) of ZnS FQDs on the SPES membrane properties such as proton conductivity and performance was investigated.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Water transport in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell: Degradation effect of gas diffusion layer Jooyoung Park, Hwanyeong Oh, Hanwook Park, Jong Woon Moon, Sang Joon Lee, Sung Yong JungVersion of Record online:02 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7782📷The water transport characteristics inside the GDL is investigated via synchrotron phase-contrast radiography, and the temporal variations in the pressure are measured simultaneously. The degraded GDL exhibits a larger breakthrough pressure and requires a longer time to acheive the first water breakthrough than the pristine GDL. Water continously penetrates the degraded GDL, while pristine GDL shows discrete snap-off of water with repetitive increases and decreases. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Heat transfer enhancement of Fe3O4-water nanofluid by the thermo-magnetic convection and thermophorestic effect Jiayou Du, Ruijin Wang, Qiuyi Zhuo, Weijia YuanVersion of Record online:02 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7821📷A modified Buongiorno's model considering the Kelvin body force was employed to explore what an arrangement of magnet can result in best heat transfer enhancement. The key mechanisms of heat transfer enhancement of nanofluid were chaotic convection induced by applied magnetic field and thermophoresis of nanoparticles. The heat transfer enhancement due to the thermo-magnetic convection can be highlighted at a moderate Reynolds number. The single-side arrangement of NSN and double-side arrangement of NSN/SNS may be the preferential selection. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Maximum power extraction of hybrid photovoltaic-battery system with nonisolated single-input and dual-output DC-DC converter: An efficient RFAMAO approach S. Gomathy, Dr N. SenthilnathanVersion of Record online:02 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7801Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Open AccessNovel waste heat and oil recovery system in the finishing treatment of the textile process for cleaner production with economic improvement Jonghun Lim, Hyejeong Lee, Hyungtae Cho, Jae Yun Shim, Heedong Lee, Junghwan KimVersion of Record online:02 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7803📷First, the exhaust gas is split by the electrostatic precipitator at a certain ratio through optimization as its exhaust gas throughput is a key deciding variable for cost and profit and the fiber dust and oil mist are removed using the ESP, and then recycled as regenerated oil. Second, waste heat is recovered from the treated gas after the fiber dust and oil mist are recovered as regenerated oil through the heat exchange in the air to water heat exchanger and this recovered heat is supplied to the dyeing process to minimize the energy required for heating the water. Finally, VOCs and the remaining pollutants are removed by activated carbon adsorption from the low-temperature-treated gas after the waste heat is recovered.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Electrochemical properties of sulfur–carbon hollow nanospheres with varied polar titanium oxide layer location for lithium–sulfur batteries Gi Dae Park, Jung-Kul Lee, Yun Chan KangVersion of Record online:01 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7783📷A rational synthetic strategy for sulfur-infiltrated carbon nanospheres containing ultrafine TiOx positioned at different locations within the carbon shell was introduced. The arrangement of elemental sulfur, the porous carbon matrix, and polar materials in the composite cathode was optimized to minimize polysulfide dissolution during cycling.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Electron beam deposited (Cu2S-CdS)GO thin film as active electrode for supercapacitor and enhanced photocatalyst for water remediation Mahwash Mahar Gul, Khuram Shahzad AhmadVersion of Record online:01 March 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7811📷Novel (CuS-CdS)GO thin film was synthesized by single-source precursor approach by diethyldithiocarbamate ligand through electron beam deposition technique. The electrochemical investigation displayed supercapacitor like properties of the thin film electrode. A good degradation rate for three important toxicants: methyl red dye, isopyrazam pesticide, and phenol was obtained by the thin film under direct solar irradiation. (Cu2S-CdS)GO thin films exhibited a stupendous potential for supercapacitors as well as environmental decontamination by using them in electrical and remediation devices.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Integrating renewable energy in electric V2G: Improved optimization assisting dispatch model Selvaraj Shobana, Kumaresan Praghash, Ganesan Ramya, B. R. Rajakumar, D. BinuVersion of Record online:28 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7690Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Development of a piezoelectric nanogenerator based on mesoporous silica/zinc oxide hybrid nanocomposite fibres Jolly Bhadra, Deepalekshmi Ponnamma, Asma Alkareem, Hemalatha Parangusan, Zubair Ahmad, Noora Al-Thani, Amal K. E. Daifalla, Noora Ali Al-Sanari, Radwa MohamedVersion of Record online:28 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7734📷The article is about the hybrid effect between the mesoporous silica and ZnO and the influ

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Tesfaye A. Geleta ,

influence of porosity of nanomaterials. The filler concentration is much lower when compared to the output voltage generated by the electrospun nanofibres. In addition, the present synthesis method stands simple when additional doping procedures (ZnO) are considered. By this research, we aim to fill the gap by studying the combined effect of ZnO and mesoporous silica on the mechanical energy harvesting property of polyvinylidene fluoride hexafluoropropylene.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Effectively constructed by the interior and interface coexisting design of cobalt-doped NiFe2S4 nanosheets for high-performance supercapacitors Yedluri Anil Kumar, Mani Govindasamy, Mohan Reddy Pallavolu, Sangaraju Sambasivam, Sunkara Srinivasa Rao, Ramesh Reddy Nallapureddy, Ayman Ahmed Ghfar, Ammar Mohamed TighezzaVersion of Record online:28 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7810📷The Co-FeCo2O4 interior and interface coexisting design array fabricated by two-step hydrothermal method for high-performance asymmetric supercapacitors with high capacity with excellent stability.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Special Issue Research Articles A correlation to predict the thermal conductivity of MXene-silicone oil based nano-fluids and data driven modeling using artificial neural networks Chitra Boobalan, Sathish Kumar KannaiyanVersion of Record online:28 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7786📷MXene-silicone oil based heat transfer nano-fluid was formulated and Thermal conductivity values are determined for the nano-fluid. A correlation to predict the thermal conductivity was developed and the datas were used for modeling using ANN.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES SnO2/SnO based redox thermochemical CO2 splitting cycle: Effect of inert gas flowrate, reduction temperature, and gas separation on the solar-to-fuel energy conversion efficiency Rahul R. Bhosale, Rajesh V. Shende, Ram B. GuptaVersion of Record online:28 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7804Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Enhanced electrochemical hydrogen peroxide production from surface state modified mesoporous tin oxide catalysts Norah M. BinSaeedan, Prabhakarn Arunachalam, Abdullah M. Al-Mayouf, Maged N. Shaddad, Mabrook S. Amer, Abeer M. Beagan, Francisco Fabregat-Santiago, Juan BisquertVersion of Record online:28 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7792📷The sodium chloride-assisted hydrothermally derived meso-SnO2 exhibits more active surface oxygen vacancies, resulting in a high surface area and exceptional electrocatalytic features toward oxygen reduction reactions. Meso-SnO2 prepared under vacuum features (Vo-rich meso-SnO2) reveals a high selectivity of over 85% toward H2O2 production at an onset potential of ∼0.6 VRHE. As a result, the vacancy-rich meso-SnO2 shows excellent initial ORR activity and long-term stability.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions A hybrid method for online cycle life prediction of lithium-ion batteries Fu-Kwun Wang, Zemenu Endalamaw Amogne, Cheng Tseng, Jia-Hong ChouVersion of Record online:28 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7785📷A novel online cycle life prediction method based on BiLSTM-AM is proposed. Support vector regression model is used to obtain the multi-step ahead prediction of the temperature and then uses BiLSTM-AM to predict SOH. Using 12 batteries, the results show that the average RUL estimation error is 3.72%.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS A novel method of enhancing the nitrogen content in biomass hard carbon: Pyrolysis-deposition-self-doping strategy Ning-Jing Song, Canliang Ma, Peng Li, Wanxi Li, Fang Guo, Yien Du, Yongqiang ChenVersion of Record online:25 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7802📷In this work, we fabricate a high content of N doped hard carbon by unique pyrolysis-deposition-self-doping (PDSD) in confined graphite canister. Compared with conventional pyrolysis at 1400 oC in a open corundum crucible, an unexpected increase of N doping amount from 0.93 at. % to 5.63 at. % is obtained by PDSD method. Meanwhile, owing to the escaped N atom from precursor react with the pyrolysis carbon, the ordering degree also improved.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Synthetic battery attribute generation to surmount data scarcity using auto-correlation mechanism Janamejaya Channegowda, Vinayak Raj Urs, Chaitanya LingarajVersion of Record online:25 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7784📷An auto-correlation based synthetic battery parameter generation methodology is introduced. The battery dataset generated can be used to artificially increase training data during scarce data availability scenarios. This approach is simple and does not involve complex generative adversarial network-based architectures to fabricate synthetic data. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Carbon quantum dot-laminated stepped porous Al current collector for stable and ultrafast lithium-ion batteries Ki-Wook Sung, Kue-Ho Kim, Hyo-Jin AhnVersion of Record online:25 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7776📷Carbon quantum dot-laminated stepped porous Al foil (CQD-SP-Al) was successfully fabricated by electrochemical etching and ultrasonic spray coating. Due to the increased contact area between the current collector and electrode with enhance adhesion, and CQD interfacial layer, which prohibited the corrosion of the Al current collector, the cyclins stability was improved. Also, because of the increased charge supplying/collecting sites by the stepped porous surface morphology and the highly conductive N-doped CQD interfacial layer, the ultrafast cycling performance was enhanced.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions PERSPECTIVES Free AccessMagic CO2 power Xin-Rong Zhang, Lei WangVersion of Record online:25 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7798Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Demand-side management based optimal scheduling of distributed generators for clean and economic operation of a microgrid system Bishwajit Dey, Sourav Basak, Arnab PalVersion of Record online:24 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7758📷A pictorial description of the proposed work.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Investigation of a novel solar-biogas based trigeneration system using a liquid metal magnetohydrodynamic equipment Qasem Abdollah Nezhad, Samad JafarmadarVersion of Record online:24 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7769Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Porous nanofibers comprising hollow Co3O4/Fe3O4 nanospheres and nitrogen-doped carbon derived by Fe@ZIF-67 as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries Ki Cheon Nam, Young Hoe Seon, Parthasarathi Bandyopadhyay, Jung Sang Cho, Sang Mun JeongVersion of Record online:24 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7770📷In this study, porous nanofibers comprising dual-phase Co3O4/Fe3O4 hollow nanospheres and N-doped graphitic carbon derived by Fe@ZIF-67 are prepared for anode materials in lithium-ion batteries. Hollow-structured Co3O4/Fe3O4 nanospheres in the structure are obtained by applying nanoscale Kirkendall diffusion mechanism to as-spun fibers by performing simple heat treatments. The synergetic effect of the unique nanostructure results in the excellent Li ion storage properties of the cell.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS Utilization of symmetric electrode materials in energy storage application: A review Buzaina Moossa, Jeffin James Abraham, Ramazan Kahraman, Siham Al-Qaradawi, Talal Mohammed Al Tahtamouni, R. A. ShakoorVersion of Record online:24 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7771📷The various symmetric electrode materials are presented. Presence of two redox couples is essential for symmetric batteries. LVP and NVP structures are the most widely analyzed in symmetric configuration. Performance improvement by various forms of carbon coatings and bulk modifications. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Exploring the sputtering conditions in ZnO thin film for triboelectric nanogenerator electrode Gizem Durak Yüzüak, Cansu Karagöz, Ercüment YüzüakVersion of Record online:24 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7777📷The prime novelty of present research is exploring details of the heat-treatment in the ZnO thin films which could provide us with enormous benefits in terms of technological use in triboelectric devices. The heat-treated film demonstrates the best electrical resistivity performance, where the FOMm parameter. A large change in the impedance magnitude of ZnO was reported to be 2.7 × 108 Ω for heat-treated at 973 K, which was approximately 10 times higher than the as-deposited film and can be seen capacitance.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Analysis of methane, propane, and syngas oxy-flames in a fuel-flex gas turbine combustor for carbon capture MD Azazul Haque, Medhat A. Nemitallah, Ahmed Abdelhafez, Esmail M. A. Mokheimer, Mohamed A. HabibVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7745Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Enhancing the solar energy conversion and harvesting characteristics of multiwalled carbon nanotubes-modified 1-hexyl-3-methyl-imidazolium cation ionic liquids Tsogtbilegt Boldoo, Minjung Lee, Honghyun ChoVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7763📷This study aims to enhance the solar energy conversion and harvesting characteristics of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)-modified 1-hexyl-3-methyl-imidazolium cation ionic liquids. Moreover, the optical transmittance, solar weighted absorbance, specific heat, and thermal conductivity of each MWCNT nanoparticle enhanced ionic liquids were investigated thoroughly. Furthermore, a comprehensive experimental study on the MWCNT nanoparticle effect on the photothermal energy conversion efficiency of MWCNT-modified 1-hexyl-3-methyl-imidazolium cation ionic liquids was conducted, which could be helpful for the development of next-generation high-efficiency solar thermal collectors.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Rhinestone sheet like carbon and metal oxide-based nanocomposites for flexible supercapacitor applications Swati Chaudhary, Om Prakash Sinha, Raja MohanVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7767📷The novelty of the proposed research work lies in the following facts: The novel combination (rGO, carbon dots, and zinc oxide) based rZD nanocomposites have been synthesized. All the synthesis techniques used for synthesizing the rZD nanocomposites are economic, eco-friendly, and feasible. High value of capacitance (796 F/g) have been achieved for these synthesized rZD nanocomposites.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Roadmap toward energy-positive upfront nitrogen removal process in baseload LNG plant Hajer Mkacher, Fares AlMomani, Ajinkya Pal, Iftekhar A. Karimi, Easa I. Al-muslehVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7749📷This present study highlights for the first time the importance of upfront nitrogen removal (UNrem) in improving the production rate of liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant and reducing energy requirements. For a realistic result, the study was performed using an actual LNG plant operating conditions The process optimization is conducted by taking the benefit of the refrigerant cooling capacity while maintain the LNG purity within the international specifications. For the newly developed process, the need for retrofitting or changes within the LNG process and the overall exergy analysis were performed and compared with the base case to provide insights into the achieved improvements.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS A review of solid oxide fuel cell based hybrid cycles Pranjal Kumar, Onkar SinghVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7766Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Silver nanoparticles-polydopamine-wax gourd: An antimicrobial solar evaporator with enhanced steam generation Xinfei Fan, Haichao Mu, Yuanlu Xu, Chengwen Song, Yanming LiuVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7773📷A low-cost and high-efficient evaporator by modifying natural wax gourd with PDA and AgNPs. As high as 1.70 kg m−2 h−1 of evaporation rate was achieved. The solar-driven evaporation under some extreme conditions and antibacterial behavior were realized.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Revisiting the nuclear energy-income nexus in Europe: An application of the JKS panel causality test with cross-sectional dependence and heterogeneity Mihaela Simionescu, Nicolas SchneiderVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7731📷The EU countries are facing a burning debate with regard to the nature and amount of decarbonized energy used within the supply mix. This study highlights the role of nuclear power and renewable energy use in achieving economic growth in Europe. Capital, labour, exports, and trade openness series are included within a multivariate framework spanning the 1986 to 2019 period and a two-step methodology is implemented. First, a panel causality analysis over the top 10 nuclear energy-consuming EU countries is conducted using the panel non-causality test from Juodis, Karavias and Sarafidis (2021), robust under large cross-sectional and time-series dimensions, as well as heterogeneous coefficients. Second, a sub-set of three states (Germany, Spain, and France) that are different in terms of long-run nuclear energy policies is selected and a single-country time-series assessment is performed using the vector error correction model, causality tests, as well as impulse response functions. Panel EU results support the “conservation hypothesis” for both nuclear and renewable resources, without feedback effect. The country-level estimates fail to provide homogeneous results since no causal link is found between economic growth and renewable energy use for Spain and France (confirmation of “neutral hypothesis”). A weak causality from renewable energy use to output growth is observed for Germany, while economic growth enhances the nuclear energy consumption in Spain.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Assessment of gadolinium concentration effects on the NuScale reactor parameters and optimizing the fuel composition via machine learning method A. Shahmirzaei, G.R. Ansarifar, A. KoranianyVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7760Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Non-modulated synthesis of cobalt-doped MoS2 for improved supercapacitor performance Ismaila T. Bello, Kabir O. Otun, Gayi Nyongombe, Oluwaseun Adedokun, Guy L. Kabongo, Mokhotjwa S. DhlaminiVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7765📷The cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge-discharge curves of the electrode materials being investigated for electrochemical performances.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS An insight on Biocathode Microbial Desalination Cell: Current challenges and prospects Sandhya Prakash, Kalaichelvi Ponnusamy, Samsudeen Naina MohamedVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7748📷Electricity from wastewater by microorganisms in MDC is used for desalination. Chemical and air cathodes are unsustainable, toxic, and expensive on a large scale. Biocathodes replace the toxic, expensive metal catalysts and improve desalination. Microalgal biocathodes eliminate the aeration need, useful in large-scale studies. The algal biomass can be used for producing biofuel, feed, and pharmaceuticals. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Artificial intelligence-based super learner approach for prediction and optimization of biodiesel synthesis—A case of waste utilization S. M. Zakir Hossain, Nahid Sultana, Muhammad Faisal Irfan, S. Manirul Haque, Nawaf Nasr, Shaikh Abdur RazzakVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7764📷Super learner approaches such as hybrid BOA-SVR, BOA-BRT along with a statistical method (response surface methodology, RSM) were utilized as potential tools for predicting biodiesel synthesis using waste date seed oil as feedstock. BOA-SVR model performs better with high accuracy than other models. The maximum biodiesel yield of 91.35% was achieved with a KOH dose of 0.6 wt%, M:O of 7:1 at a reaction time of 2 hours using the advanced super learner model (BOA-SVR-CSA). Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES A novel hybrid cooling system combining vortex tube with absorption cooler Basheer Mugdadi, Mohammad Al-NimrVersion of Record online:21 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7756Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Optimization of SiO2–TiO2 nanocomposite in hole-transporting layer (PEDOT:PSS) for enhanced performance of planar Si-based hybrid solar cells Muneeb Ahmad, Mahmood Khan, Shania Rehman, Kalyani D. Kadam, Deok-kee Kim, Muhammad Farooq Khan, Muhammad Abdul BasitVersion of Record online:21 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7759📷A comparative study of SiO2–TiO2 nanocomposite embedded in PEDOT:PSS (hole-transporting layer) with pristine PEDOT:PSS has been accomplished to simultaneous boost the JSC, VOC, and fill factor of the hybrid solar cells. This investigation suggests a possible route for performance enhancement in planar Si-based hybrid solar cells with different materials and their combinations.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Heat and mass transfer in a proton exchange membrane fuel cell with gradient distribution of platinum loading along flow channel direction Yi Tong Li, Hang Guo, Fang YeVersion of Record online:21 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7762📷Effect of segment number under platinum loading gradient distribution along the gas flow direction on oxygen molar concentration in the cathode catalyst layer.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Single-source evaporation of CH3NH3SnI3 for Pb-free perovskite solar cells Won-Gyu Choi, Susie Lee, Byeong-Cheol Jeon, Taeho MoonVersion of Record online:18 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7761📷Pure MASnI3 thin films are uniformly deposited by single-source evaporation of pre-synthesized MASnI3 crystals for Pb-free perovskite solar cells. The perovskite crystals are sublimed without decomposition through the control of a heating rate. The evaporated and post-annealed thin films exhibit pinhole-free morphology with an average grain size of 423 ± 65 nm.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Effects of the central graphite column dimension and pebble size on power density distribution in annular core pebble-bed HTR Qianye Yang, Nan Gui, Xiaoli Huang, Xiaoxi Zhang, Xingtuan Yang, Jiyuan Tu, Shengyao JiangVersion of Record online:17 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7711Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Sodium effects on the electronic and structural properties of porous silicon for energy storage Israel González, Jorge Pilo, Alejandro Trejo, Álvaro Miranda, Fernando Salazar, Rocío Nava, Miguel Cruz-IrissonVersion of Record online:17 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7754📷For the first time, the effects of interstitial and surface sodium on the electronic and structural properties of porous silicon are analysed using a first-principles density functional theory scheme. The insights gained with this study show the possibility of using porous silicon as an anode in Na-ion batteries.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS Management of operation and maintenance practices in photovoltaic plants: Key performance indicators Graciele Rediske, Leandro Michels, Julio Cezar Mairesse Siluk, Paula Donaduzzi Rigo, Carmen Brum Rosa, Ricardo Jochann Franceschi BortoliniVersion of Record online:17 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7737📷Photovoltaic plant monitoringAbstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Sintering kinetics and microstructure analysis of composite mixed ionic and electronic conducting electrodes Chengru Wu, Yang Wang, Kangcheng Wu, Haipeng Zhai, Zhengwei Gong, Zhijun Peng, Shaohui Jin, Qing Du, Kui JiaoVersion of Record online:17 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7726📷This study establishes a qualitative framework to gain an essential perception about how the sintering influences the micro properties of the electrode thereby efficiently guiding microstructure design. The initial sintering stage is found to be the dominant section throughout the sintering procedure. Tortuosity and porosity show the most significant influence on the formation of effective surface and TPB reaction sites. Large tortuosity and small porosity favor the formation of surface reaction area but adversely hinder gas transport.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Design and multiobjective optimization of membrane steam methane reformer: A computational fluid dynamic analysis Ali Cherif, Rachid Nebbali, Chul-Jin LeeVersion of Record online:17 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7750📷Optimal utilization of the membrane through multi-objective genetic algorithm:Membrane is inserted only when high H2 partial pressure gradient is attained. 80% Low membrane length with similar H2 separation. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Increasing biogas and methane yield by adding sewage sludge and zero-valent iron nanoparticles during the single-stage anaerobic digestion with municipal solid waste Tarahom Mesri Gundoshmian, Mansour Ahmadi-PirlouVersion of Record online:17 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7673📷This study was conducted to achieve the highest possible rate of methane production by adding sewage sludge to municipal solid waste to optimize the anaerobic digestion process. Then the effect of zero-valent iron nanoparticles on the optimal mixing ratio, and biodegradability of anaerobic co-digestion of organic fraction municipal solid waste and sewage sludge is designed for batch digestion under mesophilic temperature conditions. We found that the effect of zero-valent iron nanoparticles significantly increased methane.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Biomimmetic ZrO2@PdO nanocomposites: fabrication, characterization, and water splitting potential exploration Taghazal Zahra, Khuram Shahzad Ahmad, Camila Zequine, Ram Gupta, Andrew Thomas, Mohammad Azad Malik, Sadia Iram, Daoud AliVersion of Record online:17 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7736Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Performance improvement of proton-exchange membrane fuel cells through different gas injection channel geometries Hojjat Ashrafi, Nader Pourmahmoud, Iraj Mirzaee, Nima AhmadiVersion of Record online:16 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7755📷Spiral quasi, Parallel and Pin models are investigated and compared with the base model. Liquid water accumulation has the maximum magnitude in the parallel model. The Pin model has the maximum performance and less pressure loss. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Investigation on performance of battery thermal management system using spray cooling Zhuoxuan Fan, Yanan Wang, Zongfa Xie, Zhengkun WangVersion of Record online:16 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7752📷Temperature distributions on the cell with natural convection cooling, forced air cooling and spray coolingAbstract Full text PDF References Request permissions A paper-based self-pumping microfluidic fuel cell stack with a novel vertical structure Li Li, Yun He, Qiang Xu, Ting Liu, Shaoyi Bei, Keqing Zheng, Jun Yang, Hongkang Wang, Michael K. H. LeungVersion of Record online:16 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7742📷A vertically stacked structure is proposed for paper-based self-pumping MFC to reduce the volumetric costs. Stacking efficiencies much larger than one are achieved with the maximum power outputs of the two-cell and three-cell stack prototypes outperforming the MFC unit by 5.81 and 10.52 times, respectively. Mass transfer limitation is identified as the main influencing factor on the stack performance, and a loose microstructure of the paper wick is found beneficial in enhancing the mass transfer.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Improved salp swarm algorithm based on particle swarm optimization for maximum power point tracking of optimal photovoltaic systems Idriss Dagal, Burak Akın, Erdem AkboyVersion of Record online:16 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7753Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Enhanced dissociation of excitons and charge transfer in organic solar cells of polymer:fullerene blends with molecular BPFZn doping Alem Araya Meresa, Bhaskar Parida, Dang Xuan Long, Donguk Kim, Taemin Kim, Taeshik Earmme, Jongin Hong, Dong-Won Kang, Felix Sunjoo KimVersion of Record online:16 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7751📷Bis(pentafluorophenyl)zinc (BPFZn) in PTB7-Th:PC71BM blends promotes exciton dissociation and suppresses charge recombination, thereby enhancing the fill factor of the devices. As a result, the power conversion efficiency increases from 7.7% without doping to 8.7% with BPFZn doping.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions The compatibility of high-density polyethylene piping and elastomers with the future fuel methanol Yuecheng Zhang, Mohamed H. Abdellah, Sandra Kentish, Colin A. ScholesVersion of Record online:15 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7739📷Methanol has higher solubility and diffusivity through polyethylene piping than methane, with reduced mechanical flexibility. Piping elastomers had methanol sorption that was orders of magnitude higher than methane, altered mechanical properties, and loss of methanol containment.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Energy efficient flow path for improving electrolyte distribution in a vanadium redox flow battery Harsh Sharma, Milan KumarVersion of Record online:15 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7603📷A sinusoidal wave-type serpentine (SWS) flow pattern was fabricated, aiming higher better distribution of electrolyte at low pumping cost. At high flow rate, mass transfer resistance is negligible even at higher current densities. The cell experiences lower pressure drop than using conventional serpentine channel. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Methodology for integration of wind resource forecasts based on artificial neural networks Tatiane C. Carneiro, Marcello A. Ferreira Batista Lima, Paulo C. Marques de Carvalho, Josias Guimarães Batista, Luis M. Fernández-RamírezVersion of Record online:15 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7728Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS Review on the recent progress in the nanocomposite polymer electrolytes on the performance of lithium-ion batteries G. Kanimozhi, Nibagani Naresh, Harish Kumar, N. SatyanarayanaVersion of Record online:15 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7740Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions TECHNICAL NOTES Thermoelectric investigation of transition metal oxide NiO2: A first principles study Aadil Fayaz Wani, Bindu Rani, U. B. Sharopov, Shobhna Dhiman, Kulwinder KaurVersion of Record online:15 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7741Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Introducing thermoelectric generator concept to energy internet approach of electrical power system: Modeling analysis and assessment Priyambada Satapathy, Pradeep Kumar Mohanty, Binod Kumar Sahu, Manoj Kumar DebnathVersion of Record online:14 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7698📷Diverse integration of renewable sources makes the system complex, making regulating system parameters a difficult task; to avoid this, the system has been studied under incorporation of TEG along with fuel cell technology (FCT) and in absence of TEG. The system has been studied under incorporation of TEG along with fuel cell technology (FCT) and in absence of TEG. Nevertheless, the proposed system have only dc sources in order to make the system more reliable in terms of conversion, controlling, and feeding to the utility. System has been delivering significant amount of real power to the utility, whereas greater amount of absorbed reactive power can be mitigated through the application of proposed system. Proposed System DiagramAbstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Improving the performance of solar air heater using a new model of V-corrugated absorber plate having perforations jets Hareth Maher Abd, Omar Rafae Alomar, Mothana M. Mohamed SalihVersion of Record online:14 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7715📷· A new v-corrugated absorber plate model of SAH system is experimentally analysed. The v-corrugated absorber plate of new model (Model-1) has perforations jets. ·Performance of Model-1 is compared with a classic v-corrugated absorber plate (Model-2). · Results show that Model-1 can extract most of the heat from absorber as compared to Model-2. The peak efficiency was about 84.5% for Model-1 and 73% for Model-2.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions An optimal home energy management system with integration of renewable energy and energy storage with home to grid capability Arshad Mohammad, Mohd Zuhaib, Imtiaz AshrafVersion of Record online:14 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7735📷The following are the primary contributions of the proposed scheme: (i) The proposed home energy management system (HEMS) blends renewable energy sources (RES) and energy storage system (ESS) to reduce energy bills and peak to average ratio (PAR) in the house. The HEMS is responsible for providing home-to-grid (H2G) functionality. During low-price periods, it charges the ESS, and during high-price seasons, it draws electricity from its own sources. Excess energy generated by RES/ESS is sold to the grid or neighbors. (ii) A heuristic scheduling algorithm was used to schedule domestic appliances in order to maximize RES utilization. For economic reasons, excess renewable energy electricity is sent back into the grid. (iii) To demonstrate the potential of HEMS, a general mathematical module for main grid consumption and selling electricity in H2G mode has been developed and tested. (iv) Gray wolf optimization is utilized to solve the proposed multi-objective optimization problem, which optimizes power cost and PAR simultaneously.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Surface functional group-tailored B and N co-doped carbon quantum dot anode for lithium-ion batteries Kue-Ho Kim, Hyo-Jin AhnVersion of Record online:14 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7738📷We suggest surface functional group-tailored boron and nitrogen co-doped carbon quantum dots (BN-CQDs) for self-reliant lithium-ion battery (LIB) anode applications. The high electrical conductivity with boron and nitrogen co-doped structure, providing sufficient charge carriers for the ultrafast energy storage capability. And, the boron dopant generated additional active sites and facilitated the formation of C═O bonding functional groups, resulting in the high specific capacity and high Li+ acceptability. Therefore, the proposed BN-CQD is a promising self-reliant anode material for next-generation LIB applications.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions The effect of graphite felt treatment using iron-triethanolamine as etching precursor on the performance of vanadium redox flow battery Seunghye Oh, Chanho Noh, Mingyu Shin, Yongchai KwonVersion of Record online:14 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7757📷We introduce iron-triethanolamine (Fe(TEA)) material as etching precursor for electrode of vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB). The spherical-shaped Fe(TEA) precursor forms two-scale mesopores and many oxygen function groups on carbon fibers of graphite felt (Fe(TEA)-TGF). The performance of VRFB using Fe(TEA)-TGF shows 32.5% greater than that of VRFB using pristine GF at a high current density of 200 mA cm−2.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Evaluation of battery-grade alkaline earth metal sulfide electrodes for energy storage applications Sheharyar Pervez, Muhammad Zahir IqbalVersion of Record online:11 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7712📷Alkaline earth metal sulfides have been recognized for their reversibility, electroconductivity, and rate capability; features critical for energy storage applications. This work explores the energy storage profile of a strontium sulfide, SrS, electrode developed via the sonochemical method. Its capacitive and diffusive contributions are then studied using a new take on the regression parameters of the k1—k2 model.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES A novel triple-cycle system based on high-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell, thermoelectric generator, and thermally regenerative electrochemical refrigerator for power and cooling cogeneration Xinru Guo, Houcheng Zhang, Yumin Guo, Jiangfeng WangVersion of Record online:11 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7658Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Si@MXene/graphene crumbled spherical nanocomposites Vediyappan Thirumal, Rathinam Yuvakkumar, Ponnusamy Senthil Kumar, Ganesan Ravi, Dhayalan VelauthapillaiVersion of Record online:10 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7743Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE REVIEW PAPERS Selection of working fluids for solar organic Rankine cycle—A review Pradeep Arjunan, Joselin Herbert Gnana Muthu, Suresh Lal Somanasari Radha, Abhilash SuryanVersion of Record online:10 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7723📷Heat transfer fluids (HTF) are used to collect heat from the sun through a solar collector. Organic fluids (working fluids) extract heat from the HTF in an evaporator and run the turbine. Identification of a suitable combination of HTF and organic fluid is the key for the development of a solar organic Rankine cycle system. This system can be used for generating electricity for small-scale applications like residential buildings and small industries. Novelty is the identification of a suitable combination of HTF and organic fluids. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Electrostatic flocking MnO2 nanofiber electrode for long cycling stability supercapacitors Mengru Li, Liming Qin, KangTai Ou, Zhiyuan Xiong, Hengyu Zheng, Youyi SunVersion of Record online:10 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7692📷A new double-layer hybrid electrode based on MnO2 nanofibers was developed. The electrode was prepared by electrostatic flocking method. The electrode exhibited excellent electrochemical stability.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Wearable fabric supercapacitors based on CNTs and polyhedral ZnO with a wide potential window Edmund Samuel, Bhavana Joshi, Chanwoo Park, Ali Aldalbahi, Mohamed El-Newehy, Hae-Seok Lee, Sam S. YoonVersion of Record online:09 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7720📷The decoration of fabric fibers by zinc oxide polyhedron and carbon nanotube via hydrothermal for use as flexible and lightweight supercapacitor electrodes was demonstrated. The hexagonal structures in a one-step deposition, without any binder and a metallic current collector increase the specific capacitance and energy density of the overall device. The exceptional stability during long-term cycling and wide (1.6 V) operating potential were also demonstrated.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Ball-milling route to design hierarchical nanohybrid cobalt oxide structures with cellulose nanocrystals interface for supercapacitors Ramasubba Reddy Palem, Ganesh Shimoga, Iqra Rabani, Chinna Bathula, Young-Soo Seo, Hyun-Seok Kim, Sang-Youn Kim, Soo-Hong LeeVersion of Record online:09 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7744📷Nanocellulose based composite materials has attracted much attention in the fabrication of supercapacitor electrodes. Green ball-milling technique was set forth for the fabrication of hierarchical Co3O4 nano-hybrid structures in connotation with cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs). The nano-hybrid hierarchical electrode (Co3O4@CNC) showed excellent specific capacitance of 396 F/g than its pristine Co3O4 nanostructure electrode (268 F/g) at a current density of 1.0 A/g for three-electrode cell assembly.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Multifunctional photo-electrocatalysts of copper sulfides prepared via pulsed laser ablation in liquid: Phase formation kinetics and photo-electrocatalytic activity Talshyn Begildayeva, Deviprasath Chinnadurai, Seung Jun Lee, Myong Yong ChoiVersion of Record online:09 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7721📷The formation mechanism of copper sulfide nanospheres by PLAL technique in different sulfur sources was proposed. The copper-rich Cu1.95S phase achieved higher OER and MOR activity due to the enriched active sites of Cu atoms on the catalyst surface. Meanwhile, the CuS phase exhibited a good HER activity with a lower overpotential due to its higher ECSA. The effect of light absorption in an electrocatalytic activity and their phase-dependent photo-electrocatalytic activities were investigated.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Optimal sizing of hybrid renewable energy systems by considering power sharing and electric vehicles Delnia Sadeghi, Nima Amiri, Mousa Marzband, Abdullah Abusorrah, Khaled SedraouiVersion of Record online:09 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7729Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE SHORT COMMUNICATION Optimization and modeling of carbohydrate production in microalgae for use as feedstock in bioethanol fermentation Billriz E. Condor, Mark Daniel G. de Luna, Ralf Ruffel M. Abarca, Yu-Han Chang, Yoong Kit Leong, Chun-Yen Chen, Po-Ting Chen, Duu-Jong Lee, Jo-Shu ChangVersion of Record online:09 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7709📷Response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural networks (ANN) models were used to investigate the experimental parameters. RSM showed all investigated parameters and some interactions were significant. ANN gave a higher R2 value (0.9959) than RSM (0.9873). Microalgal biomass produced was used as feedstock for bioethanol fermentation. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Enhancement of battery life in microgrid energy management using mixed integer linear programming and hybrid knapsack Yasoda Kailasa Gounder, Sowkarthika SubramanianVersion of Record online:09 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7717Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions An ultrahigh-energy density and wide potential window aqueous electrolyte supercapacitor built by polypyrrole/aniline 2-sulfonic acid modified carbon felt electrode Sibel Yazar, Melih Besir Arvas, Yucel SahinVersion of Record online:09 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7706📷PPy/ASA modified carbon felt electrode was produced for energy storage application. Graphite plate was used to assembled asymmetric supercapacitor with 3 M KCl and reached up to 3.0 V high-voltage operating supercapacitor with aqueous electrolyte. CFt/PPy/ASA(0.02)//GP exhibits a high specific capacitance value of 902.9 F g−1 at 5 mV s−1 and after 5000 cycle-life testing 93.6% capacitance retention. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS Study on the surface segregation of mixed ionic-electronic conductor lanthanum-based perovskite oxide La1−xSrxCo1−yFeyO3−δ materials Suhaida Dila Safian, Nurul Izzati Abd Malek, Zadariana Jamil, Sheng-Wei Lee, Chung-Jen Tseng, Nafisah OsmanVersion of Record online:09 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7733📷Factors Influence Strontium Segregation on LSCF Perovskite Oxide.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Gd2O3 nanoparticles modified wave-like carbon host derived from soybean residue as cathodes in lithium–sulfur batteries Yinglin Yan, Wei Jing, Yuanyuan Yang, Chaojiang Fan, Mangmang Shi, Bing Ren, Yiming Zou, Zufei Feng, Caiyin You, Qijiu Deng, Rong YangVersion of Record online:08 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7746📷Gd2O3 nanoparticles were attached in wave-like hierarchical porous carbon pyrolyzed from soybean residue. Gd2O3/carbon composite integrated with sulfur was utilized as cathode in Li–S battery. The carbon matrix with ultra-high specific surface area is beneficial for the specific capacity. The Gd2O3 nanoparticles showed significant adsorption ability for polysulfides, which improved the cycling stability. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Power generation and toluene bioremediation through single chamber benthic microbial fuel cell fed with sugarcane waste as a substrate Mohammad Faisal Umar, Mohd Rafatullah, Moonis Ali Khan, Masoom Raza Siddiqui, Byong-Hun JeonVersion of Record online:08 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7747📷The single chamber benthic microbial fuel cell produced a voltage of 0.530 V between 40-80 days when the external resistance was 1 kΩ. Within 41 days, the highest power density and current density generated approximately 34.7 mW/m2 and 120 mA/m2. The scanning electron micrographs revealed that pores on the multi-anode surface were improperly spaced, but these pores were for biofilm growth. The results of the 16S rRNA pyro-sequencing revealed the presence of Staphylococcus sp. and Pseudomonas sp.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Photo-thermal conversion performance of mono MWCNT and hybrid MWCNT-TiN nanofluids in direct absorption solar collectors Nianben Zheng, Fang Yan, Long Wang, Zhiqiang SunVersion of Record online:07 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7730📷Stable mono MWCNT and hybrid MWCNT-TiN nanofluids were prepared for DASC applications The optical absorption capability was further increased by adding TiN to MWCNT nanofluids The hybrid nanofluids increased the collector efficiency by 6.9% compared to the mono nanofluids. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Thermal energy storage characteristics of polyacrylic acid/dodecanol/carbon nanofiber composites as thermal conductive shape-stabilized composite phase change materials Gökhan Hekimoğlu, Ahmet Sarı, Osman Gencel, V.V. TyagiVersion of Record online:04 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7732📷DSC analysis revealed the highly favorable LHTES properties of the PAA/DDA(70 wt%)/CNF(10 wt%) composite as melting at 18.04°C and having a phase change enthalpy as high as 157.03 J/g. PAA/DDA(70 wt%)/CNF(10 wt%) composite had an excellent thermal resistance. CNF doping lead to a significant increment in the thermal conductivity of the PAA/DDA composite. All test results suggest that especially shape-stabilized PAA/DDA/CNF composite PCM can be evaluated as energy-saving materials for thermal management of buildings.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES An investigation on the addition of SrTiO3 to the hydrogen storage properties of the 4MgH2-Li3AlH6 composite Nurul Nafiqah Itam Sulaiman, Muhammad Syarifuddin Yahya, Noratiqah Sazelee, Nurul Amirah Ali, Nurul Shafikah Mustafa, Muhammad Firdaus Asyraf Abdul Halim Yap, Mohammad IsmailVersion of Record online:02 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7704📷The SrTiO3/4MgH2-Li3AlH6 composite has started to release hydrogen at 135°C and 215°C, for the first two steps of desorption. In terms of the rehydrogenation kinetics, the composite of SrTiO3/4MgH2-Li3AlH6 composite absorbed approximately 4.23 wt% of hydrogen within 30 minutes of adsorption at 320°C. The improvement in the hydrogen sorption performances of the 4MgH2-Li3AlH6 composite is mainly ascribed to the pulverization effect introduced by SrTiO3 as the SrTiO3 in this study is observed to be stable and inert.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Highly stable bulk heterojunction organic solar cells based on asymmetric benzoselenadiazole-oriented organic chromophores Abdullah, Eun-Bi Kim, M. Shaheer Akhtar, Sadia AmeenVersion of Record online:02 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7683📷A new asymmetrically designed D-A-D organic chromophore (RSeT) was synthesized and applied as an electron donor material for stable bulk heterojunction organic solar cells (BHJ-OSCs). A high power conversion efficiency of 6.88% with Voc of ~0.985 V, Jsc of ~11.26 mA/cm2 and fill factor (FF) of ~0.62 was obtained by BHJ-OSC fabricated with RSeT:PC61BM (1:3, w/w) active layer and buffer layer of c-TiO2, which presented a good stability under ambient condition.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions A cascade bilayer electron transport layer toward efficient and stable Ruddlesden-Popper perovskite solar cells Kyeong Su Kim, Woosung Lee, Jae Woong JungVersion of Record online:02 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7725📷A hybrid bilayer electront ransport layer (ETL) structure is designed to optimize and improve optoelectronic properties of interface of 2D Ruddlesden–Popper perovskites -based solar cells. The n-type organic semiconductors inserted onto the SnO2 ELT effectively passivate defective sites and oxygen vacancy antisites at the interface, attaining efficient electron transport and carrier recombination blocking within the devices. In addition, the organic semiconductors on SnO2 afford more hydrophobic surface, resulting in outstanding long-term stability of the device in ambient atmosphere up to >300 hours.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Relationship between torrefaction severity, product properties, and pyrolysis characteristics of various biomass Seunghan Yu, Heeyoon Kim, Jinje Park, Yongwoon Lee, Young-Kwon Park, Changkook RyuVersion of Record online:02 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7716Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Distribution network energy loss reduction under EV charging schedule Aggelos S. Bouhouras, Despoina Kothona, Paschalis A. Gkaidatzis, Georgios C. ChristoforidisVersion of Record online:02 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7727📷This paper deals with the problem of energy losses in Distribution Networks under EV penetration. An optimization EV charging schedule is proposed under EV time-of-arrival consideration. The goal is to optimally allocate the charging and/or discharging time periods of the EVs in order to minimize energy losses. New departures after the first EVs’ arrival are also handled. The results indicate that with the proposed scheduling, daily energy loss reduction could be reached up to 25% under an improved voltage profile.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS Zinc oxide/graphene nanocomposite as efficient photoelectrode in dye-sensitized solar cells: Recent advances and future outlook Savisha Mahalingam, Foo Wah Low, Azimah Omar, Abreeza Manap, Nasrudin Abd Rahim, Chun Hui Tan, Huda Abdullah, Chun Hong Voon, Mamat Rokhmat, Edy Wibowo, Cheen Sean OonVersion of Record online:02 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7722📷Highlighted the structural, optical, electron transport, limitations, and interaction of dye in ZnO/graphene derivatives for DSSCs. ZnO/graphene-based DSSCs would be very helpful for researchers studying these materials as photoanode in DSSCs. A detailed electron transport mechanism of ZnO/graphene-based DSSCs have been intensively reviewed. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES The preparation of 0D/2D P-doped MnxCd1-xS/Ni2P photocatalyst and its photocatalytic activity of pure water splitting for H2 Jiaowei Yan, Lei ShiVersion of Record online:02 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7724📷A novel 0D/2D P-doped MnxCd1-xS/Ni2P photocatalyst was prepared and exhibited excellent photocatalytic ability for splitting pure water.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Aqueous redox flow battery using iron 2,2-bis(hydroxymethyl)-2,2′,2′-nitrilotriethanol complex and ferrocyanide as newly developed redox couple Mingyu Shin, Seunghye Oh, Hayoung Jeong, Chanho Noh, Yongjin Chung, Jeong Woo Han, Yongchai KwonVersion of Record online:01 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7718📷Herein, we present an all-iron aqueous redox flow battery (ARFB) using iron (Fe) 2,2-bis(hydroxymethyl)-2,2′,2′-nitrilotriethanol (BIS-TRIS) complex (Fe(BIS-TRIS)) and Ferrocyanide (Fe(CN)6) as redox couple. The redox couple is appropriate due to excellent redox reactivity and potential, and cheap cost. ARFBs using Fe(BIS-TRIS) shows excellent capacity of 11.7 Ah L-1 and coulombic efficiency and capacity retention rate of 99.8 and 99.9 % even over 250 cycles.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Surface activated natural wood biomass electrode for efficient microbial electrocatalysis: Performance and mechanism Zi-Ai Xu, Xiao-Meng Ma, Yu-Tong Shi, Jamile Mohammadi Moradian, Yan-Zhai Wang, Guo-Feng Sun, Jing Du, Xiao-Mei Ye, Yang-Chun YongVersion of Record online:01 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7705📷A sustainable and efficient 2D/3D surface activated wood electrode was fabricated and applied for high performance microbial fuel cell.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Novel urea-based compounds as solid-solid phase change materials: 1,3-bisstearoylurea and 1,1,3,3-tetrastearoylurea for thermal energy storage applications Nazan Gökşen Tosun, Aylin Çetin, Cemil AlkanVersion of Record online:01 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7697📷The urea compounds produced by condensation of urea and a stearic acid derivative showed 2 distinct, reversible and stable phase transitions. The transitions were assigned to primary crystallites of alkyl side groups to be potantially exploited for thermal energy storage and secondary crystallites of urea based centers. The distance between the phase transitions was examined in term of structure property relations.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES State of charge estimation of an electric vehicle's battery using tiny neural network embedded on small microcontroller units Yahia Mazzi, Hicham Ben Sassi, Ahmed Gaga, Fatima ErrahimiVersion of Record online:01 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7713📷This paper proposes for the first time a quantization of two deep neural network models dedicated for EV battery SOC estimation, using TensorFlow Lite Micro. This resulted in reduction of the computational requirements of the two models, making them suitable for implementation on EV’s limited MCUs.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Supportive activity of Pt nanoparticles on the nitrogen-doped graphene nanosheet with vacancy defects for catalyzing neutral glucose oxidation Tzu-Pei Wang, Ping-Yuan Tsou, Chien-Liang LeeVersion of Record online:01 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7710📷Catalyst support alters the electronic structure of metal catalysts, resulting in an enhanced activity. In this study, nitrogen-doped defective graphene nanosheet-supported Pt nanoparticles (2.8 nm) (Pt/N-dGN) were prepared and successfully used as electrocatalysts in the sequential and transient catalysis of the neutral d-glucose oxidation reaction (GOR). The Pt/N-dGN with point vacancies, 5-8-5, 5-9, and 5-7-7-5 defects showed significant mass activity (7.83 × 1019 molecules g−1Pt) toward the sequential catalysis of neutral GOR.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Electrospun zinc-manganese bimetallic oxide carbon nanofibers as freestanding supercapacitor electrodes Bhavana Joshi, Edmund Samuel, Yongil Kim, Taegun Kim, Mohamed El-Newehy, Ali Aldalbahi, Sam S. YoonVersion of Record online:01 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7719📷Electrospinning of zinc-manganese oxide fibers and their electrochemical characteristics.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Restructured Co-Ru alloys via electrodeposition for efficient hydrogen production in proton exchange membrane water electrolyzers Taegyeom Lee, Yoonsu Park, Hoyoung Kim, Yun-Kun Hong, Eunseo Hwang, Minyoung Kim, Soo-Kil Kim, Don-Hyung HaVersion of Record online:01 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7699📷The hierarchically porous Co-Ru catalysts with excellent catalytic activity and durability were fabricated by the facile electrodeposition process as well as the electrochemical etching process. The Co-Ru alloy with optimal composition exhibited high performance in both half-cell and PEMWE tests, due to the abundance of catalytic active sites upon alloying of Co and Ru. The facile fabrication process for Co-Ru alloy electrodes can provide new insights into the design of porous alloy nanostructures through electrodeposition.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Energy management in standalone AC/DC microgrid with sectionalized ring bus and hybrid resources Reza Hemmati, Hossien FarajiVersion of Record online:31 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7707Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS DFT study of X-site ion substitution doping of Cs2PtX6 on its structural and electronic properties Xinyu Ye, Anmin Liu, Yue Zhao, Qianji Han, Takeshi Kitamura, Tingli MaVersion of Record online:31 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7696Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS A perspective on development of fuel cell materials: Electrodes and electrolyte Ahmed Sajid, Erum Pervaiz, Hatim Ali, Tayyaba Noor, Mutawara Mahmood BaigVersion of Record online:30 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7635📷Critical analysis of electrode and electrolyte materials for different types of fuel cells. Advantages and challenges to make Fuel Cells market compatible and future of energy in our world are discussed in detail.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Techno-economic analysis of a hybrid solar wind electric vehicle charging station in highway roads Jayasankar Nishanthy, Sathiasamuel Charles Raja, Thangavel Praveen, Joseph Jeslin Drusila Nesamalar, Paramasivam VenkateshVersion of Record online:30 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7688📷Designing real-time hybrid EV charging station using solar and wind the selected five highway locations of Tamil Nadu. Performing sensitivity analysis with solar irradiance and wind velocity parameters, cost analysis with NPC, simple payback period, operation maintenance, and COE using HOMER tool. Optimal sizing of PV solar and wind turbine act with ON-grid configurations are carried out at five highway locations.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Open AccessStudy of radionuclide inventory in nuclear fuel under uncertainties in boron concentration using high-fidelity models Christian Castagna, Erez GiladVersion of Record online:30 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7702Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Enhancing the structural, thermal, and dielectric properties of the polymer nanocomposites based on polymer blend and barium titanate nanoparticles for application in energy storage Mervet R. Atta, Norah Algethami, Mohammed O. Farea, Qana A. Alsulami, Abdulwahab RajehVersion of Record online:30 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7703📷Solution casting and ultrasonic-assisted solution-cast methods were used to create polymer nanocomposites films based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) filled with varying concentrations of BaTiO3 nanoparticles. The X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR), transmission electron microscope, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were used to study the properties of the produced polymer nanocomposite samples.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Enhancement of perovskite solar cell performance by external down-conversion of Eu-complex film Ju Won Yang, Dong In Kim, Rak Hyun Jeong, Seong Park, Jin-Hyo BooVersion of Record online:30 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7701Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Rational design of porous Ru-doped CuO nanoarray on carbon cloth: Toward reversible catalyst layer for efficient Li-O2 batteries Heewon Yoo, Gwang-Hee Lee, Myeong-Chang Sung, Dong-Wan KimVersion of Record online:30 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7714📷Ru-CuO/RuO2@CC is synthesized via TCNQ-solution deposition and thermal oxidation. It is applied as a cathode catalyst layer for Li-O2 battery. As-synthesized Ru-CuO/RuO2@CC catalyst layer has consisted of robust 3-D interconnected conductive network and porous 1-D structure of Ru-doped CuO nanorods. Its physical and chemical interactions provide efficient ORR/ORR activities of Li-O2 batteries.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Biochar as a catalyst in the production of syngas and biodiesel from peanut waste Minyoung Kim, Jong-Min Jung, Sungyup Jung, Jeonghwan Kim, Amit Bhatnagar, Yiu Fai Tsang, Kun-Yi Andrew Lin, Eilhann E. KwonVersion of Record online:30 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7708📷Peanut waste was valorized into syngas, bio-oil, and biochar through a pyrolysis platform. Biochar obtained from the peanut waste was also used as a catalyst for biodiesel and syngas productions.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Performance evaluation of coated carbon foam material in heat exchanger applications Mohammad R. Almajali, Omar Quran, Khalid LafdiVersion of Record online:29 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7686Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Synthesis and characterization of nickel doped TiO2 nanoparticles by green method and its performance as dye-sensitized solar cells photoanodes Rajkumar Senthamarai, Venkatraman Madurai Ramakrishnan, Prabhu Murugan, Anbarasan Ponnusamy Munusamy, Suguna KulandhaivelVersion of Record online:28 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7677Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions The impact of a trace amount of water in an electrolyte on the performance of Li-ion batteries—An empirical kinetic model approach Wan Liu, Hongwei Cai, Dan Liu, Ruiqing Hua, Hongyang Gao, Ruiming Zhang, Haolin Tang, Junsheng Li, Deyu QuVersion of Record online:28 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7700📷Certain amounts of trace water were intentionally added into the LIBs electrolytes and the kinetic information of the reaction with LiPF6 was investigated. Meantime, the impact of those electrolytes upon the LIBs performance was also studied by an empirical kinetic model to calculate capacity attenuation constant as well as the activation energy of capacity decay.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Open AccessAn innovated method to monitor the health condition of the thermoelectric cooling system using nanocomposite-based CNTs Mohammed Al-Bahrani, Hasan Shakir Majdi, Azher M. Abed, Alistair CreeVersion of Record online:28 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7657📷Self-sensing nanocomposite sensors based CNTs were fabricated with the aim of using them as a simple mechanism for monitoring the TEC system's health condition. The electrical properties, thickness and microstructure of the constructed sensor were studied. From the results, as the thickness increased, conductivity exhibited a monotonic increase. Moreover, the sensors exhibited a high-temperature sensitivity with a negative temperature coefficient of resistance. The numerical results in this study provide a clear indication of the efficiency of the kind of sensors.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Symmetric aqueous redox flow battery using hydroiodic acid and anthraquinone-2,7-disulfonic acid as redox couple Agnesia Permatasari, Wonmi Lee, Yongchai KwonVersion of Record online:27 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7691📷Herein, we present a symmetric aqueous redox flow battery (ARFB) using the mixture of hydroiodic acid and anthraquinone-2,7-disulfonic acid in both electrolytes to prevent the crossover issue of iodide ions and to increase the performance of the ARFB. With that, its energy efficiency and discharging capacity are excellent as 67.6% and 26.6 Ah L−1, respectively, with capacity retention of 99.99% for 100 cycles.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Effect of NO2 on ignition characteristics of methanol and chemical kinetics analysis Yongchao Dong, Xin Wang, Zhihao Ma, Xin Li, Yifan JinVersion of Record online:25 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7685📷The ignition delay time of methanol fuel mixed with NO2 under different temperature and equivalent ratios was measured. A new detailed combined reduced mechanism (methanol-NO2 model) was established. The main cause of NO2 promoting ignition of methanol fuel was analyzed. The reaction path of methanol fuel mixed with NO2 addition was discussed. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Effects of activated Sr2+ ion content on strong blue-emitting Ca2Sb2O7 materials for high-quality WLED devices Yongbin Hua, Weiguang Ran, Peipei Dang, Wang Tian, Jae Su YuVersion of Record online:25 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7689Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS Recent advances in oxygen deficient metal oxides: Opportunities as supercapacitor electrodes Jai Kumar, Ho Jin Jung, Rana R. Neiber, Razium Ali Soomro, Young Je Kwon, Naveed Ul Hassan, Minyoung Shon, Jin Hong Lee, Kyung-Youl Baek, Kie Yong ChoVersion of Record online:25 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7675📷The review describes the centralized approach of oxygen vacancies-enriched metal oxides in supercapacitors and their advancement in energy storage devices. It could be summarized that inducing oxygen vacancies in Metal oxides is a viable technique for improving their intrinsic electronic structure, electrical conductivity, and electrocatalytic activity. The intrinsic approach has thus attracted significant attention from the energy storage community based on its capability to alter the atomic level configuration of MOs without compromising the structural characteristics.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Effect of stacking sequence on the structural ordering and phase formation in the sequentially deposited copper zinc tin sulfide thin films Nagabhushan Jnaneshwar Choudhari, Y. Raviprakash, Sajan D. George, M. S. MurariVersion of Record online:25 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7678📷The novelty of the present work is a detailed presentation of conclusive evidence for significant variation in the structural disorder and phase formation of the copper zinc tin sulfide (CZTS) thin films with changes in stacking sequence. This manuscript comprises of a comprehensive discussion on the stack order variation and sulfurization of CZTS thin films with three different combinations of precursors and their influence on the antisite disorder, phase, and defect formation.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions ZIF-67 derived hollow double-shell core Co3O4 modified g-C3N4 to construct p-n heterojunction for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution Dujuan Li, Xiaoli Ma, Peng Su, Zhibo Jiang, Zhiliang JinVersion of Record online:25 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7655📷The study titled “ZIF-67 derived hollow double-shell core Co3O4 modified g-C3N4 to construct p-n heterojunction for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution” co-authored by Dujuan Li, Xiaoli Ma, Peng Su, Zhibo Jiang, Zhiliang Jin used the hollow polyhedron-shaped Co3O4 to modify g-C3N4 to promote photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. The results show that the synthesis of the p-n heterojunction composite catalyst CNCO (g-C3N4@Co3O4) accelerates the charge mobility and provides a space support site for high-efficiency hydrogen evolution.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Thermodynamic design, evaluation, and optimization of a novel quadruple generation system combined of a fuel cell, an absorption refrigeration cycle, and an electrolyzer Leyla Khani, Mahsa Mohammadpour, Mousa Mohammadpourfard, Saeed Zeinali Heris, Gülden Gökçen AkkurtVersion of Record online:24 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7634📷In this article, thermodynamic and environmental performances of a new power, heating, cooling, and hydrogen quadruple-generation system based on a solid oxide fuel cell are studied comprehensively. Then, the genetic algorithm is used to find the best operating parameters for the highest exergy efficiency. The obtained results show that the highest exergy destruction occurs in the SOFC stack.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Electrochemical performance of Quercus infectoria as a supercapacitor carbon electrode material Murat AkdemirVersion of Record online:24 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7674Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Synthesis of MoO3 by pilot-scale combustion reaction and evaluation in biodiesel production from residual oil Adriano Lima da Silva, Ana Flávia Felix Farias, João Baptista da Costa Agra de Melo, Alisson Mendes Rodrigues, Simoni Margareti Plentz Meneghetti, Ana Cristina Figueiredo de Melo CostaVersion of Record online:24 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7679Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Multiobjective optimization model for renewable energy sources and load demands uncertainty consideration for optimal design of hybrid combined cooling, heating, and power systems K. Elango, A. Prakash, L. UmasankarVersion of Record online:24 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7684Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Boron-doped porous carbon material derived from ZIF-11: Investigation of cotton fabric supercapacitor and Li-ion battery performances Nesrin Bugday, Serdar Altin, Fatih Bulut, Emine Altin, Sedat YaşarVersion of Record online:24 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7676📷Nitrogen-doped porous carbon (NPC@ZIF-11) and boron-NPC (BNPC@ZIF-11) materials were synthesized by pyrolysis methods, and structural characterization of the compounds was carried out by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Brunauer–Elmet–Teller technique, Raman spectroscopy, and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry techniques.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Solvent modulated self-assembled VS2 layered microstructure for electrocatalytic water and urea decomposition Supriya A. Patil, Nabeen K. Shrestha, Hoa Thi Bui, Vijay D. Chavan, Deok-kee Kim, Shoyebmohamad F. Shaikh, Mohd Ubaidullah, Hyungsang Kim, Hyunsik ImVersion of Record online:24 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7651📷A novel concept of recycling waste-water and simultaneous generation of green H2 fuel using microflowered structure of VS2 has been adopted in this work. A solvent modulated approach is employed to fabricate a layered VS2 microflowered structure and employed as a bifunctional electrocatalyst for water and urea electrolysis. It was able to achieve a current density of 10 mA cm−2 for overall urea oxidation reaction, with a low cell potential of 1.38 V vs RHE in alkaline electrolyte containing 0.33 M urea.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Investigation of magnetron sputtered Ni@Cu/WS2 as an electrode material for potential supercapattery devices Muhammad Zahir Iqbal, Meshal Alzaid, Usman Abbasi, Shahid Alam, Rashid Ali, Amir Muhammad Afzal, Sikandar AftabVersion of Record online:23 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7641📷The study presents the electrochemical analysis of magnetron sputtered pristine tungsten disulfide (WS2) and WS2 anchored over copper (Cu) interfacial layer by employing nickel foam as a current collector. Based on electrochemical characterizations the device showed excellent Qs of 185.8 C/g and high energy density (Ed) and power density (Pd) of 43.9 Wh/kg and 425 W/kg, respectively. Furthermore, for a high current density (js) of 8 A/g the device procured a maximum Pd of 6800 W/kg. For the cyclic test, the device exhibited efficient stability performance of 98.1% against 4500 consecutive GCD cycles.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS Effect of the micro-, meso- and macropores on the electrochemical performance of supercapacitors: A review Ricardo Mendoza, Jorge Oliva, Vicente Rodriguez-GonzalezVersion of Record online:23 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7670📷The review summarizes the main literature about the use of micro-, meso- and macroporous materials for supercapacitor applications We explained how parameters such as pore size, pore volume and surface area are correlated with the electrochemical performance of supercapacitors, this information has not been summarized previously in the literature. Also, we described how the type of pore (micro-, meso- or macroporous) strongly influences the capacitance and the cycling stability of the devices. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES A novel collaborative multiscale weighting factor-adaptive Kalman filtering method for the time-varying whole-life-cycle state of charge estimation of lithium-ion batteries Shunli Wang, Yongcun Fan, Chunmei Yu, Siyu Jin, Paul Takyi-Aninakwa, Carlos Fernandez, Daniel-Ioan StroeVersion of Record online:23 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7672📷A novel weighting factor-adaptive Kalman filtering (WF-AKF) method is proposed for the whole-life-cycle state of charge (SOC) estimation of lithium-ion batteries. The improved collaborative bipartite electrical equivalent circuit (BEEC) model is constructed by considering the time-varying factors. An adaptive multi-time scale model is built with real-time estimation and correction strategies. Multiple influencing factors are taken into consideration, including internal parameters, ambient temperature, and current rate variation. The proposed WF-AKF algorithm stabilizes the large initial SOC estimation error by tracking the actual value with a maximum error of 0.46% under time-varying ambient temperatures, current rates, and complex working condition. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Strain-induced tunable energy barrier of proton diffusion in Y-doped BaCeO3 and Y-doped BaZrO3 Hongwei Niu, Yuhang Jing, Yi Sun, Licheng Guo, Narayana R. Aluru, Weiqi Li, Jianqun Yang, Xingji LiVersion of Record online:23 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7682📷We extend the investigation of the strain effect of the proton diffusion energy barrier to Y-doped BaCeO3 (BCY) and Y-doped BaZrO3 (BZY), which manifest excellent proton conductivity. Proton diffusion in BCY was decomposed to a three elementary steps mechanism to provide a microscopic picture of the process. The different strain effect of the proton diffusion energy barrier of BCY and BZY during intra-octahedral proton transfer is attributed to the bond order changes of the hydrogen bond during the elementary steps. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Open AccessStrategies on energy loss reduction from high-temperature steam for stable hydrogen production using solid-recovered fuel Sunhee Oh, Seonggon Kim, Minjeong Cho, Chong Pyo Cho, Seong-Ryong Park, Yong Tae KangVersion of Record online:21 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7659📷A high-temperature steam generation system for supplying steam to the water electrolysis was designed and built using solid-recovered fuel (SRF), and obtained a heat source having a temperature of 973 K. In order to reliably supply hydrogen production, heat loss must be reduced, and there are three strategies: (a) using a double pipe, (b) installing a baffle inside the pipe to block the steam flow, and (c) bypassing the overflowing steam. Double pipe reduces heat loss by 25% compared to single pipe. In addition, when three baffles are installed inside the double pipe, heat dissipation is reduced by about 6%. Therefore, it was proved that installing 3 to 4 internal baffles inside the double pipe is the most effective method, and it was confirmed that the temperature of the external fluid should be maintained at 573 K or higher.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS A conceptual review on transformation of micro-grid to virtual power plant: Issues, modeling, solutions, and future prospects Subhasis Panda, Sarthak Mohanty, Pravat Kumar Rout, Binod Kumar SahuVersion of Record online:21 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7671📷Major contribution of this review article are as follows:The current review article concerns some valuable contributions on VPP's impact on the energy market, energy trade, spot pricing, bidding strategies, and EVs integration in grids. Scheduling of DERs is focused on in detail as it affects the overall performance of the VPP. This review presents the systematic way of transforming from the microgrid concept to the VPP framework for researchers, consumers, prosumers, and utility operators. Optimization algorithms are explained and discussed in different aspects including the Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques and advance computational intelligence methods. The communication infrastructure of the VPP is presented briefly to highlight its main features and major role as a driver for the implementation of the VPP concept in real time. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Optimal Fe/Ni/Ca-Al catalyst for tar model steam reforming by using the Taguchi method Chao-Wei Huang, Chih-Hsin Hsieh, Janusz Lasek, Yueh-Heng LiVersion of Record online:20 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7681📷Ca/Al molar ratio of 2.5. Calcining temperature of 1073 K. 3 wt% iron metal loading. 7 wt% nickel metal loading. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Preparation and characterization of novel CuS/SiO2@n-octadecane phase-change nanocapsules enhanced photothermal conversion for solar energy utilization Lei Liu, Shuoyang Liang, Xiang Cheng, Min Guo, Fangqin Cheng, Mei ZhangVersion of Record online:20 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7648Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Accelerating the charging process in a shell and dual coil ice storage unit equipped with connecting plates Farhad Afsharpanah, Khashayar Pakzad, Seyed Soheil Mousavi Ajarostaghi, Sébastien Poncet, Kurosh SedighiVersion of Record online:20 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7654Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Improvement of structural stability of cathode by manganese additive in electrolyte for zinc-ion batteries Sijin Park, Geon−Hyoung AnVersion of Record online:20 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7687Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Facile synthesis of MgCo2O4 hexagonal nanostructure via co-precipitation approach and its supercapacitive properties Jai Bhagwan, B. N. Vamsi Krishna, Jae Su YuVersion of Record online:20 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7680📷The MgCo2O4 hexagonal nanoplates are synthesized via a facile co-precipitation technique. The nanoplate structures provide the enhanced surface area, increasing the contact region at the electrode/electrolyte. The synthesized MgCo2O4 hexagonal nanoplate electrode is used for asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC), which reveals good electrochemical properties, together with practical applications using ASCs.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Design of affordable sustainable energy supply systems for residential buildings: A case study Edwin S. Pinto, Luis M. Serra, Ana LázaroVersion of Record online:19 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7660📷Evaluation of different technologies such as renewable energy, heat pumps, energy storage, among others, in the pathway to achieve sustainable energy systems for residential buildings considering the current Spanish legal restrictions, stablishing guidelines for the proper design of polygeneration systems for residential buildings at an affordable cost, aligned with short term EU objectives on climate change, as well as with the objective of reaching affordable carbon neutral energy systems for buildings in the long term of 2050.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Fabricating V2AlC/g-C3N4 nanocomposite with MAX as electron moderator for promoting photocatalytic CO2-CH4 reforming to CO/H2 Mohamed Madi, Muhammad TahirVersion of Record online:19 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7667📷The vanadium aluminum carbide (V2AlC) supported g-C3N4 composite was successfully synthesized for photocatalytic dry reforming of methane (DRM) under solar energy. The performance of g-C3N4 was significantly enhanced due to proficient charges separation with higher visible light absorption. The continuous production of CO/H2 during photoinduced DRM with higher photoactivity and stability was achieved in multiple cycles.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions 11,11,12,12-tetracyano-9,10-anthraquinonedimethane as a sustainable cathode for room temperature all solid-state lithium battery Weibo Shi, Jiayao Wang, Xinyi Zhang, Qingli Wang, Wenwen DengVersion of Record online:19 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7668📷We designed an all solid-state lithium-ion battery (ASSLIB) with 11,11,12,12-tetracyano-9,10-anthraquinonedimethane (TCAQ) as the cathode and lithium metal as the anode. The ASSOLB can deliver a capacity of 84.4 mAh g−1 at 0.1C (1C = 176 mA g−1) and a capacity retention of 73% after 100 cycles. TCAQ is metal-free resource abundant, acting as a sustainable cathode for ASSLIBs.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Analysis of a linear programming-based decision-making model for microgrid energy management systems with renewable sources Karim Bio Gassi, Mustafa BaysalVersion of Record online:18 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7656Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions One-step synthesis of nitrogen-doped graphene powders and application of them as high-performance symmetrical coin cell supercapacitors in different aqueous electrolyte Melih Besir Arvas, Nilgün Karatepe, Metin Gencten, Yucel SahinVersion of Record online:18 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7642📷Nitrogen-doped graphene powders were prepared by Yucel's Method with cyclic voltammetry at different potential ranges for selective modification of the powders with functional groups. The powders were used for production of the electrode materials of symmetric supercapacitors. The highest specific capacitance, energy and power values were determined as 235.3 F.g−1, 158.2 Wh.kg−1 and 1760 W.kg−1, respectively.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Thermophysical investigation of metallic nanocomposite phase change materials for indoor thermal management Veerakumar Chinnasamy, Honghyun ChoVersion of Record online:18 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7664📷The present study aims to enhance the thermophysical properties of lauryl alcohol using Al2O3, CuO, Fe3O4, and SiC nanoparticles. Further, the phase change temperatures, latent heat, specific heat, thermal conductivity, viscosity, thermal and chemical stability of the nanocomposite PCMs were studied through different characterization techniques along with the exothermic freezing process. A detailed investigation on nano-enhancement of lauryl alcohol using metallic nanoparticles is not available so far, and it is attempted to present in this research work.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Hydrogen production by thermochemical water splitting cycle using low-grade solar heat and phase change material energy storage system Mehdi Mehrpooya, Bahram Ghorbani, Mohammadmahdi KhodaverdiVersion of Record online:17 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7662📷A novel integrated system for renewable hydrogen production, power, and hot water from solar thermal energy has been developed and precisely evaluated in terms of thermodynamics. The structure is comprised of a four-step Cu-Cl thermochemical cycle, and an ORC unit to generate electricity. The required heat is supplied by a concentrated solar power plant and thermal energy storage based on latent heat. The total exergy efficiency and the prime cost of the product are 34.23% and 5.795 USD/kg H2, respectively.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Energy-related clean and green framework for shipbuilding community towards zero-emissions: A strategic analysis from concept to case study Seyedvahid Vakili, Aykut I. Ölçer, Alessandro Schönborn, Fabio Ballini, Anh Tuan HoangVersion of Record online:17 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7649📷A new concept of the environmentally sustainable shipyard is comprehensively developed A systematic multidisciplinary approach is considered to promote a green shipyard Framework implementation accelerates decarbonization from a life-cycle perspective Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Revealing the effects of conductive carbon materials on the cycling stability of rechargeable Zn-air batteries Zhongxi Zhao, Wentao Yu, Wenxu Shang, Yi He, Yanyi Ma, Zhuojun Zhang, Peng TanVersion of Record online:17 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7669📷The effects of conductive carbon materials on the cycling stability of rechargeable zinc-air batteries are usually overlooked. Unlike previous works where electrode characterization was performed at different stages of battery cycling or after failure, differential electrochemical mass spectrometry was introduced to directly monitor the gas released during different cycles. This work demonstrates the significant roles of conductive carbon materials in cycling stability and indicates that the in-situ gas analysis is essential to more rigorously evaluate the charging performance.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Hybrid dual conductor on Ni-rich NCM for superior electrochemical performance in Lithium-ion batteries Sungmin Na, Kwangjin ParkVersion of Record online:17 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7644Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Boron-containing nonwoven polymeric nanofiber mats as neutron shields in compact nuclear fusion reactors Mücahid Özcan, Erol Kam, Cengiz Kaya, Figen KayaVersion of Record online:17 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7652📷This manuscript reports on the production of electrospun boron-containing PVA nanofibers and their utilization as flexible shielding materials for nuclear fusion reactors as well as for personal protection against neutron radiation. The lightweight and flexible nanofiber mats were formed by electrospinning of a solution of PVA polymer with amorphous boron particles. It has been observed that as the weight ratio of the boron particles is increased, the neutron shielding properties also increase. In addition, fiber formability of solutions, fiber networking structure, and fiber sizes in the mat were found to have effects on neutron shielding capabilities. In recent years, it is of interest to produce radiation shielding materials for special applications such as nuclear energy production, nuclear medicine, and aerospace applications, at low cost, as the use of nuclear energy is increasing in demand. The production of lightweight and flexible shielding materials is particularly proven to be important for ease of production and use. Within our knowledge, the production of lightweight and highly neutron absorbent fiber-based materials containing boron-doped PVA nanofibers is reported for the first time in the literature. Hence, we believe that this paper will be of interest to a wide audience of the International Journal of Energy Research. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Optimization of inverted CH3NH3PbI3 based perovskite solar cells by experimental design Gokcen Gokceli, Sinem Bozar, Nilgun KaratepeVersion of Record online:13 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7666Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Performance assessment of a phase change charging mode in a vertical thermal energy storage system Mustafa Asker, Dincer Akal, Mehmet Akif EzanVersion of Record online:13 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7663📷The current work mainly aims to show the importance of natural convection during the melting process of PCM in a thermal energy storage system. The comparative results are evaluated considering the spatial and temporal temperature variations, the stored energy, the stored exergy, dimensionless effectiveness, and exergy efficiency. Varying the working and design parameters also lets us examine the influence of the natural convection-dominated melting process under different conditions. The results are discussed considering both the first law and second law aspects of thermodynamics.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Amorphous TiO2 nanotube arrays with Au nanocrystals for lithium-ion battery Wanggang Zhang, Yiming Liu, Zhiyuan Song, Fuqian YangVersion of Record online:13 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7661Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Experimental study on the preheating efficiency of an aluminum-rich ternary lithium-ion battery using constant-voltage preheating method Xiaolong Yang, Futao Zhang, Xiaolin Gao, Zeguang ZhouVersion of Record online:13 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7665Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Study on the redox performance of Cu and Ce-doped CoFe2O4 as oxygen carriers for chemical looping hydrogen generation Jie Gao, Ge Pu, Shuaihui Jia, Cong Yuan, Chenghua ZhangVersion of Record online:12 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7650📷The Cu and Ce co-doped CoFe2O4 oxygen carrier exhibited excellent H2 production capability during the methane chemical looping hydrogen generation process. The doping of Ce greatly improved the oxygen release and migration rate and ensured sufficient oxygen supply to the gas-solid reaction surface. The doping of Cu enhanced the reduction performance of the oxygen carrier and inhibited the catalytic decomposition of CH4.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Enhancement of hydrogen production using dynamic magnetic field through water electrolysis Purnami Purnami, Nurkholis Hamidi, Mega Nur Sasongko, Eko Siswanto, Denny Widhiyanuriyawan, Ishardita Pambudi Tama, Willy Satrio Nugroho, I Nyoman Gede WardanaVersion of Record online:12 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7638📷This study utilizes dynamic magnetic field (DMF) to increase hydrogen production in water electrolysis. DMF was produced by rotating plat-shaped magnets around the cathode. The rotating magnet magnetic field increases hydrogen production twofold due to magnetic field exposure forces dipole homogenization of water molecules. The exposure area of the magnetic field decreasing and Electrolysis efficiency lowered as the magnet RPM increasing. This happened due to the rotation of the magnets in high RPM cannot completely restore their magnetic field vector.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS The efficiency of M (M = Li, Na, or Cs) doped CdS nanomaterials in optoelectronic applications Madeha A. Awad, Mohamed Shaban, Mohamed RabiaVersion of Record online:11 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7640📷Na-CdS grass like structure was prepared and applied as optoelectronic device for detection the light under different intensities or different wavelengths. The photoresponsivity (R), detectivity (D), and external quantum efficiency (EQE) values for Na-CdS photodetector were 38 mA W−1, 1.5 × 1010 Jones, and 12%, respectively.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE REVIEW PAPERS How to increase the catalytic efficacy of platinum-based nanocatalysts for hydrogen generation from the hydrolysis of ammonia borane Saim ÖzkarVersion of Record online:11 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7616📷How to increase the catalytic efficacy of platinum nanocatalystsUsing colloidal nanoparticles is an efficient way of increasing the catalytic activity of platinum catalysts. Supporting the platinum nanoparticles on materials with a large surface area can increase their stability. Selecting suitable oxide support can increase the catalytic efficiency of platinum nanocatalysts. The reusability of platinum nanoparticles can be increased by using magnetic powder materials as support. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Sulfur-doped molybdenum phosphide as fast dis/charging anode for Li-ion and Na-ion batteries Ghulam Ali, Mohsin Ali Raza Anjum, Sheeraz Mehboob, Muhammad Akbar, Jae Sung Lee, Kyung Yoon ChungVersion of Record online:10 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7647📷S:MoP-7 electrode shows better cyclability in sodium-ion batteries.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Experimental study and optimization of excess lithium in cathodic active materials with Lix(Ni0.3Mn0.5Co0.2)O2 composition on Li-ion battery performance Hadi Bashirpour-bonabVersion of Record online:09 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7653Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Design of cobalt-iron complex sulfides grown on nickel foam modified by reduced graphene oxide as a highly effect bifunctional electrocatalyst for overall water splitting Kai Zhang, Pingping Jiang, Qian Gu, Yan Leng, Pingbo Zhang, Zhenhua Li, Yuchao LiVersion of Record online:09 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7639📷The manuscript entitled “Design of Cobalt-Iron Complex Sulfides Grown on Nickel Foam Modified by Reduced Graphene Oxide as a Highly Effect Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for Overall Water Splitting” was original and the authors of this manuscript include Kai Zhang, Pingping Jiang*, Qian Gu, Yan Leng, Pingbo Zhang, Zhenhua Li and Yuchao Li. The novelty of this manuscript rests with that the as-prepared novel Co0.50Fe0.50S-rGO@NF exhibited lower overpotentials for OER and HER together with excellent stability and durability in both of the alkaline and acid electrolytes. This work still shows excellent electrocatalytic performance in overall water splitting experiment.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Numerical investigation of graphene and 2D-MoS2 facilitated perovskite/silicon “p-i-n” structure for solar cell application Chandra Kamal Borah, Sanjeev KumarVersion of Record online:09 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7646📷1. Four novel solar cell structures based on graphene, 2D n-type MoS2, perovskite materials, and p-cSi have been proposed and investigated their performance numerically under AM 1.5 solar spectra.2. The best performance has been achieved in the "Graphene/n-MoS2/MAPbI3-XClx" solar cell structure with output efficiency in the range of 25%-27%.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Fusion estimation strategy based on dual adaptive Kalman filtering algorithm for the state of charge and state of health of hybrid electric vehicle Li-ion batteries Pu Ren, Shunli Wang, Xianpei Chen, Junhan Huang, Mingfang HeVersion of Record online:09 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7643Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Fabrication of semi-flexible carbon quantum dots-reinforced polypyrrole (PPy/CQDs) composite electrodes by hybrid electrospray deposition for high-performance energy storage device Elumalai Dhandapani, Prabhu Sengodan, Navaneethan Duraisamy, Rajendran RameshVersion of Record online:09 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7636📷CQDs reinforced PPy composite for semi-flexible energy storage application.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Parameter estimation of solar PV models with a new proposed war strategy optimization algorithm Tummala.S. L. V. Ayyarao, Polamarasetty P. KumarVersion of Record online:09 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7629📷This paper proposes a novel meta-heuristic optimization algorithm inspired by the ancient times war strategy for estimating the solar PV model parameters. The proposed War Strategy Optimization (WSO) is developed based on the army troop’s strategic movement during the war. Two objective functions are formulated and are tested on the benchmark test modelsAbstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Role of triethanolamine in forming Cu2ZnSnS4 nanoparticles during solvothermal processing for solar cell applications Yas Al-Hadeethi, Elmoiz Merghni Mkawi, Omar Al-Hartomy, Elena BekyarovaVersion of Record online:04 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7632📷Role of Triethanolamine in Forming Cu2ZnSnS4 Nanoparticles during Solvothermal Processing for Solar Cell Applications FE-SEM cross-sectional images of the CZTS thin film solar cell-based NPs prepared used a TEA concentration of 5 mg/mL with the SLG/Mo/CZTS/CdS/i-ZnO/AZO/Al structure J-V curves of the CZTS thin film photovoltage fabricated using different TEA concentrations (2, 3, 4, and 5 mg/mL) under AM1.5 illumination. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Design and thermodynamic analysis of a new multigenerational plant with modular high-temperature gas-cooled reactor Murat Koc, Yunus Emre Yuksel, Murat OzturkVersion of Record online:04 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7645Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Porous media flow field for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell: Depression of gas diffusion layer intrusion, deformation, and delamination Bo Zheng, Zhe Wang, Yun WangVersion of Record online:03 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7630📷Assembly pressure leads to GDL intrusion/deformation and the shear/tensile stresses at GDL/MPL interface. GDL intrusion may considerably reduce GFC space and deformation and lead to a large spatial variation in local porosity and permeability. Porous media GFCs can greatly mitigate GDL intrusion and porosity/permeability variation and MPL/GDL tensile/shear stress. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES In-situ expansion strategy towards hierarchical mesoporous carbon: Formation mechanism and application in supercapacitors Nannan Guo, Wanxia Luo, Doudou Zhou, Mengjiao Xu, Daping Qiu, Ang Gao, Rui Ma, Rui Sheng, Dianzeng Jia, Luxiang WangVersion of Record online:03 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7633📷An in-situ activation strategy towards hierarchical mesoporous carbon. The grain refinement, crystal rearrangement and in-situ expansion enable the formation of the unique porous structure. An excellent capacitance of 436 F g−1 can be achieved in a three-electrode system. A high energy density of 41.2 Wh kg−1 at 620 W kg−1 is obtained in ionic liquid electrolyte. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Prediction and optimization of the design decisions of liquid cooling systems of battery modules using artificial neural networks Emre Bulut, Emre İsa Albak, Gökhan Sevilgen, Ferruh ÖztürkVersion of Record online:03 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7637Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Electrospun conductive carbon nanofiber hosts for stable zinc metal anode Sang Ha Baek, Yoon Jin Cho, Jae Min Park, Peixun Xiong, Jeong Seok Yeon, Harpalsinh H. Rana, Jeong Hee Park, Gun Jang, Sang Joon Lee, Ho Seok ParkVersion of Record online:02 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7609📷When zinc was deposited on the electrospun carbon nanofibers fabricated by stabilization and carbonization after electrospinning, the actual current density was lowered due to the high surface area of CNF, and as the deposited zinc grew in the (002) direction, a uniform deposition was obtained.This result confirms that carbon nanofiber is a promising conductive substrate for zinc metal anode.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Interaction effect of process parameters and Pd-electrocatalyst in formic acid electro-oxidation for fuel cell applications: Implementing supervised machine learning algorithms SK Safdar Hossain, Syed Sadiq Ali, Sayeed Rushd, Bamidele Victor Ayodele, Chin Kui ChengVersion of Record online:02 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7602📷Effects of various parameters on formic acid electro-oxidation were model using machine learning algorithms. The performance of the machine learning algorithms was influenced by various kernel functions. The SVM, Ensemble Tree, and GPR models resulted in R2 of 0.82, 0.83, and 0.85, respectively. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Importance of spin-orbit coupling on photovoltaic properties of Pb-free vacancy ordered double perovskites halides X2TeY6 (X = Cs, Rb, and Y = I, Br, Cl): First-principles calculations Smahane Dahbi, Najim Tahiri, Omar El Bounagui, Hamid Ez-ZahraouyVersion of Record online:02 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7631📷The inclusion of spin-orbit coupling is crucial for the correct characterization of the electronic properties of the X2TeY6 compound. Besides, the excellent absorption along the visible region, the suitable forbidden band, as well as the high thermodynamic stability make Cs2TeI6 as a new potential candidate compound for single-junction solar cells.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Research on decentralized operation scheduling strategy of integrated energy system based on energy blockchain Xiaoou LiuVersion of Record online:28 December 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7598Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Swarm intelligence-based energy management of electric vehicle charging station integrated with renewable energy sources Priyanka Ray, Chayan Bhattacharjee, Koteswara Raju DhenuvakondaVersion of Record online:28 December 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7601Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE EDITORIAL Free AccessGuest editorial for special issue on potential energy solutions Yusuf BicerVersion of Record online:28 December 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7619Full text PDF Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Macromolecular antioxidants for chemically durable polymer electrolyte fuel cell membranes Abdul Kodir, Sung-Hee Shin, Satbyul Park, Mutya Rahmah Arbi, Tae-Hyun Yang, Hyejin Lee, Dongwon Shin, Byungchan BaeVersion of Record online:28 December 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7607📷Macromolecular antioxidants are effective in increasing PFSA membrane's oxidative durability. The antioxidant did not decrease water uptake and proton conductivity of the membrane. It also works in OCV accelerated fuel cells test. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Stable anode enabled by an embossed and punched structure for a high-rate performance Zn-ion hybrid capacitor Kihyuk Yun, Haenam Jang, Geon-Hyoung AnVersion of Record online:27 December 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7595📷We focus and investigate the decoration of an improved-quality graphene film with ultrafine MnO2 nanoparticles for use as a multifunctional current collector.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Numerical investigation of air cooling system for a densely packed battery to enhance the cooling performance through cell arrangement strategy Patcharin Saechan, Isares DhuchakallayaVersion of Record online:19 December 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7571Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Synthesis of carbon nanotubes/titanium dioxide and study of its effect on the optical, dielectric, and mechanical properties of polyvinyl alcohol/sodium alginate for energy storage devices Haifa Mohammed Alghamdi, Abdulwahab RajehVersion of Record online:17 December 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7578📷In this system, the solvent casting technique was used to prepare polymer nanocomposites from MWCNTs/TiO2 nanoparticles (as nanofiller) doped PVA/SA blend. The optical, ac conductivity, dielectric and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites films enhanced as compared to pure PVA/SA film. Thus, it was generally concluded that the polymer nanocomposite is better than the pure blend due to its superior dielectric constant, thermal, optical, and mechanical properties, which makes them useful in the manufacture of nanoelectronic devices of high energy storage.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Reactor design of methanol steam reforming by evolutionary computation and hydrogen production maximization by machine learning Wei-Hsin Chen, Zih-Yu Chen, Sheng-Yen Hsu, Young-Kwon Park, Joon Ching JuanVersion of Record online:14 December 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7543📷This research designs an methanol steam reforming reactor and employs the Nelder-Mead algorithm to find an equivalent steam tube radius. Furthermore, a three-step training and test of the database by the neural networks is adopted to evaluate the influence of the number of data sets and find the best combination of the parameters. The best combination poses the highest H2 yield of 2.905 mol∙(mol CH3OH)-1, and the error between the prediction and simulation is merely 0.206%.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Development of a waste-to-energy gasification system for sustainable communities Bogachan Gungor, Ibrahim DincerVersion of Record online:18 November 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7464📷In this novel study, major problems, which humanity has recently faced, are considered. These problems addressed in this paper include mismanagement of sewage sludge, nonrecyclables, and unfavorable plastics, greenhouse gas emissions emitted due to the use of fossil fuel-based resources, and global warming. A waste-to-energy system has been proposed to integrate renewable energy resources into integrated waste management systems to produce multiple useful outputs to create a circular economy and decrease waste loads of incinerators and landfills for sustainable communities.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Power quality statistical predictions based on differential, deep and probabilistic learning using off-grid and meteo data in 24-hour horizon Ladislav ZjavkaVersion of Record online:29 October 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7431Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Research on the influence of electrolytes on the low-temperature start-up performance of zinc-air battery for forklifts Qinguo Zhang, Zheming Tong, Shuiguang TongVersion of Record online:30 September 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7296Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Light-trapping and spectral modulation to increase the conversion efficiency of triple-junction GaAs solar cells using antireflective coating comprising a periodic array of cone-shaped TiO2 structures Wen-Jeng Ho, Jheng-Jie Liu, Xing-Yu Chen, Hung-Pin XiaoVersion of Record online:07 September 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7240📷This study sought to increase the conversion efficiency of 3J GaAS solar cells via spectral light-trapping through the application of a uniform TiO2 layer with an antireflective coating comprising a periodic array of cone-shaped TiO2 structures. The cone-shaped TiO2 structures (PS: 600 nm) improved the photovoltaic performance of triple-junction GaAS cells by 20.55% in JSC (from 9.73 to 11.73 mA/cm2) and 20.59% increase in η (from 20.98% to 25.30%), under AM1.5G illuminations at zero of incidence. The cell with cone-shaped TiO2 ARC structures also had a wider light source acceptance angle and delivered higher electrical output for a given duration.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE REVIEW PAPERS Probable thermoelectric materials for promising candidate of optoelectronics for Ba-based complex perovskite compounds Saadi Berri, Nadir BouarissaVersion of Record online:06 September 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7232Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Open AccessLarge scale synthesis of hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets and their use in thermally conductive polyethylene nanocomposites Mehamed Ali, Ahmed AbdalaVersion of Record online:14 August 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7149📷We report the large-scale synthesis of hBNNs via a ball milling (BM) with a yield of up to 60%. Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE)-hBNNs nanocomposites with improved thermal conductivity, thermal stability, and mechanical properties were fabricated. Moreover, the BM-induced hBNNs defects were eliminated by mixing hBNNs with LLDPE (4/1 mass ratio), further enhancing the nanocomposite's thermal conductivity, mechanical properties, and thermal stability.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Open AccessEnhanced thermal conductivity of polyethylene nanocomposites with graphene, granulated graphene, graphene nanoplatelet, and their hybrids Chaudhry Usman, Abdelnasser Mabrouk, Ahmed AbdalaVersion of Record online:11 August 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7147📷Nanocomposites of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) with granulated graphene with enhanced thermal conductivity are fabricated via melt processing. At 40 wt. % loading, the nanocomposite's thermal conductivity (κc) reached 2.91 W/m.K, corresponding to ~1000% increase over LDPE due to the reduced polymer/filler's thermal interfacial resistance. Furthermore, binary and ternary hybrid fillers of granulated graphene with graphene, graphene nanoplatelets, and micrographite did not display any synergistic effect on κc.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Modeling and simulation of GaAsPN/GaP quantum dot structure for solar cell in intermediate band solar cell applications Abdelkader Aissat, Lynda Chenini, Said Nacer, Jean Perre VilcotVersion of Record online:01 August 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7114📷The Intermediate bands formed by quantum dots based on GaAs1-x-yPxNy/GaP materials have been modeled and simulated to improve solar cell efficiency. The incorporation of quantum dots in the solar cell structure makes it possible to absorb the maximum of incident photons. This allows the absorption of photons that have an energy lower than the bandgap energy.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE REVIEW PAPERS Artificial intelligence based prognostic maintenance of renewable energy systems: A review of techniques, challenges, and future research directions Yasir Saleem Afridi, Kashif Ahmad, Laiq HassanVersion of Record online:31 July 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7100📷In contrast to existing surveys, this paper provides an in-depth and detailed survey of the literature on prognostic maintenance of renewable energy systems, including Hydro, Wind, and Solar Power systems, with a particular focus on approaches, challenges (such as security, interpretability, and data-related issues), and future research directions.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Fluoropolymer impregnated graphite foil as a bipolar plates of vanadium flow battery Pavel Loktionov, Natalia Kartashova, Dmitry Konev, Lilia Abunaeva, Anatoly Antipov, Eugeny Ruban, Alexander Terent'ev, Natalia Gvozdik, Maria Lyange, Andrey Usenko, Keith StevensonVersion of Record online:27 July 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7088Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions GarliChain: A privacy preserving system for smart grid consumers using blockchain Omaji Samuel, Nadeem JavaidVersion of Record online:15 July 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7040Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Long-term planning scenarios of new nuclear capacity in Mexico using the IAEA INPRO methodology Emilio-Javier Yañez, Cecilia Martín-del-Campo, Juan-Luis François, Federico Puente-EspelVersion of Record online:11 May 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6847📷The International Atomic Energy Agency INPRO methodology was implemented for assessing long-term planning scenarios of new nuclear capacity in Mexico. The methodology covers, through key indicators, features involved in the nuclear fuel cycle and economic aspects to determine the best ones. Three scenarios were set-up and studied. The variables involved in the nuclear fuel cycle of each scenario were obtained and the best proposed alternative was quantitatively determined.​Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Inhibiting polysulfides with PDA/PEI-functionalized separators for stable lithium-sulfur batteries Cunbao Pei, Jingde Li, Zezhong Lv, Huanmin Wang, Wei Dong, Yongyi YaoVersion of Record online:15 April 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6773Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Advanced machine learning tools based on energy management and economic performance analysis of a microgrid connected to the utility grid Mostafa Al-GabalawyVersion of Record online:14 April 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6764Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES High-heat flux flow and heat transfer transitions in a supercritical loop: Numerical verification and correlation Dong Yang, Lin Chen, Jiaxiang Chen, Yongchang FengVersion of Record online:29 March 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6696📷High heat-flux long pipe flow is identified to have different heat transfer regimes. Based on the data in different regions of heat transfer transitions, new correlation has been proposed and compared with BP network estimation.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Synthesis of nickel boride and investigation of availability as an additive in the molten carbonate fuel cell anode material Erdi Başarır, Göksel Özkan, Gülay ÖzkanVersion of Record online:23 March 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6626📷The positive effect of nickel boride additive in the anode material for molten carbonate fuel cell was investigated.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions A solar simulator numerical modeling for heat absorption phenomenon research in a parabolic trough collector Łukasz Bartela, Bartosz Stanek, Daniel Węcel, Anna Skorek-OsikowskaVersion of Record online:01 March 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6585📷This article presents the results of solar simulator modeling for parabolic trough collectors testing. A new approach of lamp arrangement and assessing the solar simulator quality was presented. The evaluation index has been defined to determine the quality of the energy distribution. The results show that 22 reflectors, each with metal halide 400 We, are suitable for illuminating a 1×1 meter area. The influence of the simulator distance on the amount of energy reaching the absorber surface was also analyzed.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Open AccessOptimal design of electric vehicle charging stations for commercial premises Islam Safak Bayram, Michael Devetsikiotis, Raka JovanovicVersion of Record online:18 February 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6523Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Comparison of machine learning and deep learning algorithms for hourly global/diffuse solar radiation predictions Olusola Bamisile, Ariyo Oluwasanmi, Chukwuebuka Ejiyi, Nasser Yimen, Sandra Obiora, Qi HuangVersion of Record online:16 February 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6529Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Techno-economic assessment and optimization of a standalone residential hybrid energy system for sustainable energy utilization Deepak Kumar, Tavishi TewaryVersion of Record online:11 January 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6389Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Dynamic characteristics of a shell and plate particle-SCO2 moving packed bed heat exchanger with various SCO2 channel configurations Jun-Ming Yin, Qiu-Yun Zheng, Xin-Rong ZhangVersion of Record online:15 December 2020 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6290Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Forced convection of Al2O3, Fe3O4, ND-Fe3O4, and (MWCNT-Fe3O4) mixtures in rectangular channels: Experimental and numerical results M. Ziad Saghir, Mohammad M. RahmanVersion of Record online:02 November 2020 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6145Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Exergetic performance assessment of magnesium oxide–water nanofluid in corrugated minichannel heat sinks: An experimental study Muhammad Usman Sajid, Hafiz Muhammad Ali, Yusuf BicerVersion of Record online:19 October 2020 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6024📷In this study, water and MgO nanofluid are used as coolants in the corrugated minichannels, and the effects of Reynolds number, heating power, and nanoparticles concentration are investigated in detailed for effective cooling arrangements.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Submit an Article Browse free sample issue Get content alerts Subscribe to this journal Related Title: New for 2019 📷More from this journal More Energy Journals To Our Authors Newsletter Special Issues LaTeX class file Related Titles https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/toc/1099114x/2021/0/0

Tesfaye A. Geleta ,

influence of porosity of nanomaterials. The filler concentration is much lower when compared to the output voltage generated by the electrospun nanofibres. In addition, the present synthesis method stands simple when additional doping procedures (ZnO) are considered. By this research, we aim to fill the gap by studying the combined effect of ZnO and mesoporous silica on the mechanical energy harvesting property of polyvinylidene fluoride hexafluoropropylene.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Effectively constructed by the interior and interface coexisting design of cobalt-doped NiFe2S4 nanosheets for high-performance supercapacitors Yedluri Anil Kumar, Mani Govindasamy, Mohan Reddy Pallavolu, Sangaraju Sambasivam, Sunkara Srinivasa Rao, Ramesh Reddy Nallapureddy, Ayman Ahmed Ghfar, Ammar Mohamed TighezzaVersion of Record online:28 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7810📷The Co-FeCo2O4 interior and interface coexisting design array fabricated by two-step hydrothermal method for high-performance asymmetric supercapacitors with high capacity with excellent stability.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Special Issue Research Articles A correlation to predict the thermal conductivity of MXene-silicone oil based nano-fluids and data driven modeling using artificial neural networks Chitra Boobalan, Sathish Kumar KannaiyanVersion of Record online:28 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7786📷MXene-silicone oil based heat transfer nano-fluid was formulated and Thermal conductivity values are determined for the nano-fluid. A correlation to predict the thermal conductivity was developed and the datas were used for modeling using ANN.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES SnO2/SnO based redox thermochemical CO2 splitting cycle: Effect of inert gas flowrate, reduction temperature, and gas separation on the solar-to-fuel energy conversion efficiency Rahul R. Bhosale, Rajesh V. Shende, Ram B. GuptaVersion of Record online:28 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7804Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Enhanced electrochemical hydrogen peroxide production from surface state modified mesoporous tin oxide catalysts Norah M. BinSaeedan, Prabhakarn Arunachalam, Abdullah M. Al-Mayouf, Maged N. Shaddad, Mabrook S. Amer, Abeer M. Beagan, Francisco Fabregat-Santiago, Juan BisquertVersion of Record online:28 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7792📷The sodium chloride-assisted hydrothermally derived meso-SnO2 exhibits more active surface oxygen vacancies, resulting in a high surface area and exceptional electrocatalytic features toward oxygen reduction reactions. Meso-SnO2 prepared under vacuum features (Vo-rich meso-SnO2) reveals a high selectivity of over 85% toward H2O2 production at an onset potential of ∼0.6 VRHE. As a result, the vacancy-rich meso-SnO2 shows excellent initial ORR activity and long-term stability.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions A hybrid method for online cycle life prediction of lithium-ion batteries Fu-Kwun Wang, Zemenu Endalamaw Amogne, Cheng Tseng, Jia-Hong ChouVersion of Record online:28 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7785📷A novel online cycle life prediction method based on BiLSTM-AM is proposed. Support vector regression model is used to obtain the multi-step ahead prediction of the temperature and then uses BiLSTM-AM to predict SOH. Using 12 batteries, the results show that the average RUL estimation error is 3.72%.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS A novel method of enhancing the nitrogen content in biomass hard carbon: Pyrolysis-deposition-self-doping strategy Ning-Jing Song, Canliang Ma, Peng Li, Wanxi Li, Fang Guo, Yien Du, Yongqiang ChenVersion of Record online:25 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7802📷In this work, we fabricate a high content of N doped hard carbon by unique pyrolysis-deposition-self-doping (PDSD) in confined graphite canister. Compared with conventional pyrolysis at 1400 oC in a open corundum crucible, an unexpected increase of N doping amount from 0.93 at. % to 5.63 at. % is obtained by PDSD method. Meanwhile, owing to the escaped N atom from precursor react with the pyrolysis carbon, the ordering degree also improved.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Synthetic battery attribute generation to surmount data scarcity using auto-correlation mechanism Janamejaya Channegowda, Vinayak Raj Urs, Chaitanya LingarajVersion of Record online:25 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7784📷An auto-correlation based synthetic battery parameter generation methodology is introduced. The battery dataset generated can be used to artificially increase training data during scarce data availability scenarios. This approach is simple and does not involve complex generative adversarial network-based architectures to fabricate synthetic data. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Carbon quantum dot-laminated stepped porous Al current collector for stable and ultrafast lithium-ion batteries Ki-Wook Sung, Kue-Ho Kim, Hyo-Jin AhnVersion of Record online:25 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7776📷Carbon quantum dot-laminated stepped porous Al foil (CQD-SP-Al) was successfully fabricated by electrochemical etching and ultrasonic spray coating. Due to the increased contact area between the current collector and electrode with enhance adhesion, and CQD interfacial layer, which prohibited the corrosion of the Al current collector, the cyclins stability was improved. Also, because of the increased charge supplying/collecting sites by the stepped porous surface morphology and the highly conductive N-doped CQD interfacial layer, the ultrafast cycling performance was enhanced.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions PERSPECTIVES Free AccessMagic CO2 power Xin-Rong Zhang, Lei WangVersion of Record online:25 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7798Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Demand-side management based optimal scheduling of distributed generators for clean and economic operation of a microgrid system Bishwajit Dey, Sourav Basak, Arnab PalVersion of Record online:24 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7758📷A pictorial description of the proposed work.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Investigation of a novel solar-biogas based trigeneration system using a liquid metal magnetohydrodynamic equipment Qasem Abdollah Nezhad, Samad JafarmadarVersion of Record online:24 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7769Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Porous nanofibers comprising hollow Co3O4/Fe3O4 nanospheres and nitrogen-doped carbon derived by Fe@ZIF-67 as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries Ki Cheon Nam, Young Hoe Seon, Parthasarathi Bandyopadhyay, Jung Sang Cho, Sang Mun JeongVersion of Record online:24 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7770📷In this study, porous nanofibers comprising dual-phase Co3O4/Fe3O4 hollow nanospheres and N-doped graphitic carbon derived by Fe@ZIF-67 are prepared for anode materials in lithium-ion batteries. Hollow-structured Co3O4/Fe3O4 nanospheres in the structure are obtained by applying nanoscale Kirkendall diffusion mechanism to as-spun fibers by performing simple heat treatments. The synergetic effect of the unique nanostructure results in the excellent Li ion storage properties of the cell.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS Utilization of symmetric electrode materials in energy storage application: A review Buzaina Moossa, Jeffin James Abraham, Ramazan Kahraman, Siham Al-Qaradawi, Talal Mohammed Al Tahtamouni, R. A. ShakoorVersion of Record online:24 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7771📷The various symmetric electrode materials are presented. Presence of two redox couples is essential for symmetric batteries. LVP and NVP structures are the most widely analyzed in symmetric configuration. Performance improvement by various forms of carbon coatings and bulk modifications. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Exploring the sputtering conditions in ZnO thin film for triboelectric nanogenerator electrode Gizem Durak Yüzüak, Cansu Karagöz, Ercüment YüzüakVersion of Record online:24 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7777📷The prime novelty of present research is exploring details of the heat-treatment in the ZnO thin films which could provide us with enormous benefits in terms of technological use in triboelectric devices. The heat-treated film demonstrates the best electrical resistivity performance, where the FOMm parameter. A large change in the impedance magnitude of ZnO was reported to be 2.7 × 108 Ω for heat-treated at 973 K, which was approximately 10 times higher than the as-deposited film and can be seen capacitance.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Analysis of methane, propane, and syngas oxy-flames in a fuel-flex gas turbine combustor for carbon capture MD Azazul Haque, Medhat A. Nemitallah, Ahmed Abdelhafez, Esmail M. A. Mokheimer, Mohamed A. HabibVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7745Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Enhancing the solar energy conversion and harvesting characteristics of multiwalled carbon nanotubes-modified 1-hexyl-3-methyl-imidazolium cation ionic liquids Tsogtbilegt Boldoo, Minjung Lee, Honghyun ChoVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7763📷This study aims to enhance the solar energy conversion and harvesting characteristics of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)-modified 1-hexyl-3-methyl-imidazolium cation ionic liquids. Moreover, the optical transmittance, solar weighted absorbance, specific heat, and thermal conductivity of each MWCNT nanoparticle enhanced ionic liquids were investigated thoroughly. Furthermore, a comprehensive experimental study on the MWCNT nanoparticle effect on the photothermal energy conversion efficiency of MWCNT-modified 1-hexyl-3-methyl-imidazolium cation ionic liquids was conducted, which could be helpful for the development of next-generation high-efficiency solar thermal collectors.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Rhinestone sheet like carbon and metal oxide-based nanocomposites for flexible supercapacitor applications Swati Chaudhary, Om Prakash Sinha, Raja MohanVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7767📷The novelty of the proposed research work lies in the following facts: The novel combination (rGO, carbon dots, and zinc oxide) based rZD nanocomposites have been synthesized. All the synthesis techniques used for synthesizing the rZD nanocomposites are economic, eco-friendly, and feasible. High value of capacitance (796 F/g) have been achieved for these synthesized rZD nanocomposites.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Roadmap toward energy-positive upfront nitrogen removal process in baseload LNG plant Hajer Mkacher, Fares AlMomani, Ajinkya Pal, Iftekhar A. Karimi, Easa I. Al-muslehVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7749📷This present study highlights for the first time the importance of upfront nitrogen removal (UNrem) in improving the production rate of liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant and reducing energy requirements. For a realistic result, the study was performed using an actual LNG plant operating conditions The process optimization is conducted by taking the benefit of the refrigerant cooling capacity while maintain the LNG purity within the international specifications. For the newly developed process, the need for retrofitting or changes within the LNG process and the overall exergy analysis were performed and compared with the base case to provide insights into the achieved improvements.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS A review of solid oxide fuel cell based hybrid cycles Pranjal Kumar, Onkar SinghVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7766Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Silver nanoparticles-polydopamine-wax gourd: An antimicrobial solar evaporator with enhanced steam generation Xinfei Fan, Haichao Mu, Yuanlu Xu, Chengwen Song, Yanming LiuVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7773📷A low-cost and high-efficient evaporator by modifying natural wax gourd with PDA and AgNPs. As high as 1.70 kg m−2 h−1 of evaporation rate was achieved. The solar-driven evaporation under some extreme conditions and antibacterial behavior were realized.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Revisiting the nuclear energy-income nexus in Europe: An application of the JKS panel causality test with cross-sectional dependence and heterogeneity Mihaela Simionescu, Nicolas SchneiderVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7731📷The EU countries are facing a burning debate with regard to the nature and amount of decarbonized energy used within the supply mix. This study highlights the role of nuclear power and renewable energy use in achieving economic growth in Europe. Capital, labour, exports, and trade openness series are included within a multivariate framework spanning the 1986 to 2019 period and a two-step methodology is implemented. First, a panel causality analysis over the top 10 nuclear energy-consuming EU countries is conducted using the panel non-causality test from Juodis, Karavias and Sarafidis (2021), robust under large cross-sectional and time-series dimensions, as well as heterogeneous coefficients. Second, a sub-set of three states (Germany, Spain, and France) that are different in terms of long-run nuclear energy policies is selected and a single-country time-series assessment is performed using the vector error correction model, causality tests, as well as impulse response functions. Panel EU results support the “conservation hypothesis” for both nuclear and renewable resources, without feedback effect. The country-level estimates fail to provide homogeneous results since no causal link is found between economic growth and renewable energy use for Spain and France (confirmation of “neutral hypothesis”). A weak causality from renewable energy use to output growth is observed for Germany, while economic growth enhances the nuclear energy consumption in Spain.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Assessment of gadolinium concentration effects on the NuScale reactor parameters and optimizing the fuel composition via machine learning method A. Shahmirzaei, G.R. Ansarifar, A. KoranianyVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7760Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Non-modulated synthesis of cobalt-doped MoS2 for improved supercapacitor performance Ismaila T. Bello, Kabir O. Otun, Gayi Nyongombe, Oluwaseun Adedokun, Guy L. Kabongo, Mokhotjwa S. DhlaminiVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7765📷The cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge-discharge curves of the electrode materials being investigated for electrochemical performances.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS An insight on Biocathode Microbial Desalination Cell: Current challenges and prospects Sandhya Prakash, Kalaichelvi Ponnusamy, Samsudeen Naina MohamedVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7748📷Electricity from wastewater by microorganisms in MDC is used for desalination. Chemical and air cathodes are unsustainable, toxic, and expensive on a large scale. Biocathodes replace the toxic, expensive metal catalysts and improve desalination. Microalgal biocathodes eliminate the aeration need, useful in large-scale studies. The algal biomass can be used for producing biofuel, feed, and pharmaceuticals. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Artificial intelligence-based super learner approach for prediction and optimization of biodiesel synthesis—A case of waste utilization S. M. Zakir Hossain, Nahid Sultana, Muhammad Faisal Irfan, S. Manirul Haque, Nawaf Nasr, Shaikh Abdur RazzakVersion of Record online:22 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7764📷Super learner approaches such as hybrid BOA-SVR, BOA-BRT along with a statistical method (response surface methodology, RSM) were utilized as potential tools for predicting biodiesel synthesis using waste date seed oil as feedstock. BOA-SVR model performs better with high accuracy than other models. The maximum biodiesel yield of 91.35% was achieved with a KOH dose of 0.6 wt%, M:O of 7:1 at a reaction time of 2 hours using the advanced super learner model (BOA-SVR-CSA). Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES A novel hybrid cooling system combining vortex tube with absorption cooler Basheer Mugdadi, Mohammad Al-NimrVersion of Record online:21 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7756Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Optimization of SiO2–TiO2 nanocomposite in hole-transporting layer (PEDOT:PSS) for enhanced performance of planar Si-based hybrid solar cells Muneeb Ahmad, Mahmood Khan, Shania Rehman, Kalyani D. Kadam, Deok-kee Kim, Muhammad Farooq Khan, Muhammad Abdul BasitVersion of Record online:21 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7759📷A comparative study of SiO2–TiO2 nanocomposite embedded in PEDOT:PSS (hole-transporting layer) with pristine PEDOT:PSS has been accomplished to simultaneous boost the JSC, VOC, and fill factor of the hybrid solar cells. This investigation suggests a possible route for performance enhancement in planar Si-based hybrid solar cells with different materials and their combinations.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Heat and mass transfer in a proton exchange membrane fuel cell with gradient distribution of platinum loading along flow channel direction Yi Tong Li, Hang Guo, Fang YeVersion of Record online:21 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7762📷Effect of segment number under platinum loading gradient distribution along the gas flow direction on oxygen molar concentration in the cathode catalyst layer.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Single-source evaporation of CH3NH3SnI3 for Pb-free perovskite solar cells Won-Gyu Choi, Susie Lee, Byeong-Cheol Jeon, Taeho MoonVersion of Record online:18 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7761📷Pure MASnI3 thin films are uniformly deposited by single-source evaporation of pre-synthesized MASnI3 crystals for Pb-free perovskite solar cells. The perovskite crystals are sublimed without decomposition through the control of a heating rate. The evaporated and post-annealed thin films exhibit pinhole-free morphology with an average grain size of 423 ± 65 nm.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Effects of the central graphite column dimension and pebble size on power density distribution in annular core pebble-bed HTR Qianye Yang, Nan Gui, Xiaoli Huang, Xiaoxi Zhang, Xingtuan Yang, Jiyuan Tu, Shengyao JiangVersion of Record online:17 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7711Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Sodium effects on the electronic and structural properties of porous silicon for energy storage Israel González, Jorge Pilo, Alejandro Trejo, Álvaro Miranda, Fernando Salazar, Rocío Nava, Miguel Cruz-IrissonVersion of Record online:17 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7754📷For the first time, the effects of interstitial and surface sodium on the electronic and structural properties of porous silicon are analysed using a first-principles density functional theory scheme. The insights gained with this study show the possibility of using porous silicon as an anode in Na-ion batteries.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS Management of operation and maintenance practices in photovoltaic plants: Key performance indicators Graciele Rediske, Leandro Michels, Julio Cezar Mairesse Siluk, Paula Donaduzzi Rigo, Carmen Brum Rosa, Ricardo Jochann Franceschi BortoliniVersion of Record online:17 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7737📷Photovoltaic plant monitoringAbstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Sintering kinetics and microstructure analysis of composite mixed ionic and electronic conducting electrodes Chengru Wu, Yang Wang, Kangcheng Wu, Haipeng Zhai, Zhengwei Gong, Zhijun Peng, Shaohui Jin, Qing Du, Kui JiaoVersion of Record online:17 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7726📷This study establishes a qualitative framework to gain an essential perception about how the sintering influences the micro properties of the electrode thereby efficiently guiding microstructure design. The initial sintering stage is found to be the dominant section throughout the sintering procedure. Tortuosity and porosity show the most significant influence on the formation of effective surface and TPB reaction sites. Large tortuosity and small porosity favor the formation of surface reaction area but adversely hinder gas transport.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Design and multiobjective optimization of membrane steam methane reformer: A computational fluid dynamic analysis Ali Cherif, Rachid Nebbali, Chul-Jin LeeVersion of Record online:17 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7750📷Optimal utilization of the membrane through multi-objective genetic algorithm:Membrane is inserted only when high H2 partial pressure gradient is attained. 80% Low membrane length with similar H2 separation. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Increasing biogas and methane yield by adding sewage sludge and zero-valent iron nanoparticles during the single-stage anaerobic digestion with municipal solid waste Tarahom Mesri Gundoshmian, Mansour Ahmadi-PirlouVersion of Record online:17 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7673📷This study was conducted to achieve the highest possible rate of methane production by adding sewage sludge to municipal solid waste to optimize the anaerobic digestion process. Then the effect of zero-valent iron nanoparticles on the optimal mixing ratio, and biodegradability of anaerobic co-digestion of organic fraction municipal solid waste and sewage sludge is designed for batch digestion under mesophilic temperature conditions. We found that the effect of zero-valent iron nanoparticles significantly increased methane.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Biomimmetic ZrO2@PdO nanocomposites: fabrication, characterization, and water splitting potential exploration Taghazal Zahra, Khuram Shahzad Ahmad, Camila Zequine, Ram Gupta, Andrew Thomas, Mohammad Azad Malik, Sadia Iram, Daoud AliVersion of Record online:17 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7736Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Performance improvement of proton-exchange membrane fuel cells through different gas injection channel geometries Hojjat Ashrafi, Nader Pourmahmoud, Iraj Mirzaee, Nima AhmadiVersion of Record online:16 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7755📷Spiral quasi, Parallel and Pin models are investigated and compared with the base model. Liquid water accumulation has the maximum magnitude in the parallel model. The Pin model has the maximum performance and less pressure loss. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Investigation on performance of battery thermal management system using spray cooling Zhuoxuan Fan, Yanan Wang, Zongfa Xie, Zhengkun WangVersion of Record online:16 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7752📷Temperature distributions on the cell with natural convection cooling, forced air cooling and spray coolingAbstract Full text PDF References Request permissions A paper-based self-pumping microfluidic fuel cell stack with a novel vertical structure Li Li, Yun He, Qiang Xu, Ting Liu, Shaoyi Bei, Keqing Zheng, Jun Yang, Hongkang Wang, Michael K. H. LeungVersion of Record online:16 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7742📷A vertically stacked structure is proposed for paper-based self-pumping MFC to reduce the volumetric costs. Stacking efficiencies much larger than one are achieved with the maximum power outputs of the two-cell and three-cell stack prototypes outperforming the MFC unit by 5.81 and 10.52 times, respectively. Mass transfer limitation is identified as the main influencing factor on the stack performance, and a loose microstructure of the paper wick is found beneficial in enhancing the mass transfer.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Improved salp swarm algorithm based on particle swarm optimization for maximum power point tracking of optimal photovoltaic systems Idriss Dagal, Burak Akın, Erdem AkboyVersion of Record online:16 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7753Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Enhanced dissociation of excitons and charge transfer in organic solar cells of polymer:fullerene blends with molecular BPFZn doping Alem Araya Meresa, Bhaskar Parida, Dang Xuan Long, Donguk Kim, Taemin Kim, Taeshik Earmme, Jongin Hong, Dong-Won Kang, Felix Sunjoo KimVersion of Record online:16 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7751📷Bis(pentafluorophenyl)zinc (BPFZn) in PTB7-Th:PC71BM blends promotes exciton dissociation and suppresses charge recombination, thereby enhancing the fill factor of the devices. As a result, the power conversion efficiency increases from 7.7% without doping to 8.7% with BPFZn doping.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions The compatibility of high-density polyethylene piping and elastomers with the future fuel methanol Yuecheng Zhang, Mohamed H. Abdellah, Sandra Kentish, Colin A. ScholesVersion of Record online:15 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7739📷Methanol has higher solubility and diffusivity through polyethylene piping than methane, with reduced mechanical flexibility. Piping elastomers had methanol sorption that was orders of magnitude higher than methane, altered mechanical properties, and loss of methanol containment.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Energy efficient flow path for improving electrolyte distribution in a vanadium redox flow battery Harsh Sharma, Milan KumarVersion of Record online:15 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7603📷A sinusoidal wave-type serpentine (SWS) flow pattern was fabricated, aiming higher better distribution of electrolyte at low pumping cost. At high flow rate, mass transfer resistance is negligible even at higher current densities. The cell experiences lower pressure drop than using conventional serpentine channel. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Methodology for integration of wind resource forecasts based on artificial neural networks Tatiane C. Carneiro, Marcello A. Ferreira Batista Lima, Paulo C. Marques de Carvalho, Josias Guimarães Batista, Luis M. Fernández-RamírezVersion of Record online:15 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7728Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS Review on the recent progress in the nanocomposite polymer electrolytes on the performance of lithium-ion batteries G. Kanimozhi, Nibagani Naresh, Harish Kumar, N. SatyanarayanaVersion of Record online:15 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7740Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions TECHNICAL NOTES Thermoelectric investigation of transition metal oxide NiO2: A first principles study Aadil Fayaz Wani, Bindu Rani, U. B. Sharopov, Shobhna Dhiman, Kulwinder KaurVersion of Record online:15 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7741Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Introducing thermoelectric generator concept to energy internet approach of electrical power system: Modeling analysis and assessment Priyambada Satapathy, Pradeep Kumar Mohanty, Binod Kumar Sahu, Manoj Kumar DebnathVersion of Record online:14 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7698📷Diverse integration of renewable sources makes the system complex, making regulating system parameters a difficult task; to avoid this, the system has been studied under incorporation of TEG along with fuel cell technology (FCT) and in absence of TEG. The system has been studied under incorporation of TEG along with fuel cell technology (FCT) and in absence of TEG. Nevertheless, the proposed system have only dc sources in order to make the system more reliable in terms of conversion, controlling, and feeding to the utility. System has been delivering significant amount of real power to the utility, whereas greater amount of absorbed reactive power can be mitigated through the application of proposed system. Proposed System DiagramAbstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Improving the performance of solar air heater using a new model of V-corrugated absorber plate having perforations jets Hareth Maher Abd, Omar Rafae Alomar, Mothana M. Mohamed SalihVersion of Record online:14 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7715📷· A new v-corrugated absorber plate model of SAH system is experimentally analysed. The v-corrugated absorber plate of new model (Model-1) has perforations jets. ·Performance of Model-1 is compared with a classic v-corrugated absorber plate (Model-2). · Results show that Model-1 can extract most of the heat from absorber as compared to Model-2. The peak efficiency was about 84.5% for Model-1 and 73% for Model-2.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions An optimal home energy management system with integration of renewable energy and energy storage with home to grid capability Arshad Mohammad, Mohd Zuhaib, Imtiaz AshrafVersion of Record online:14 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7735📷The following are the primary contributions of the proposed scheme: (i) The proposed home energy management system (HEMS) blends renewable energy sources (RES) and energy storage system (ESS) to reduce energy bills and peak to average ratio (PAR) in the house. The HEMS is responsible for providing home-to-grid (H2G) functionality. During low-price periods, it charges the ESS, and during high-price seasons, it draws electricity from its own sources. Excess energy generated by RES/ESS is sold to the grid or neighbors. (ii) A heuristic scheduling algorithm was used to schedule domestic appliances in order to maximize RES utilization. For economic reasons, excess renewable energy electricity is sent back into the grid. (iii) To demonstrate the potential of HEMS, a general mathematical module for main grid consumption and selling electricity in H2G mode has been developed and tested. (iv) Gray wolf optimization is utilized to solve the proposed multi-objective optimization problem, which optimizes power cost and PAR simultaneously.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Surface functional group-tailored B and N co-doped carbon quantum dot anode for lithium-ion batteries Kue-Ho Kim, Hyo-Jin AhnVersion of Record online:14 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7738📷We suggest surface functional group-tailored boron and nitrogen co-doped carbon quantum dots (BN-CQDs) for self-reliant lithium-ion battery (LIB) anode applications. The high electrical conductivity with boron and nitrogen co-doped structure, providing sufficient charge carriers for the ultrafast energy storage capability. And, the boron dopant generated additional active sites and facilitated the formation of C═O bonding functional groups, resulting in the high specific capacity and high Li+ acceptability. Therefore, the proposed BN-CQD is a promising self-reliant anode material for next-generation LIB applications.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions The effect of graphite felt treatment using iron-triethanolamine as etching precursor on the performance of vanadium redox flow battery Seunghye Oh, Chanho Noh, Mingyu Shin, Yongchai KwonVersion of Record online:14 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7757📷We introduce iron-triethanolamine (Fe(TEA)) material as etching precursor for electrode of vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB). The spherical-shaped Fe(TEA) precursor forms two-scale mesopores and many oxygen function groups on carbon fibers of graphite felt (Fe(TEA)-TGF). The performance of VRFB using Fe(TEA)-TGF shows 32.5% greater than that of VRFB using pristine GF at a high current density of 200 mA cm−2.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Evaluation of battery-grade alkaline earth metal sulfide electrodes for energy storage applications Sheharyar Pervez, Muhammad Zahir IqbalVersion of Record online:11 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7712📷Alkaline earth metal sulfides have been recognized for their reversibility, electroconductivity, and rate capability; features critical for energy storage applications. This work explores the energy storage profile of a strontium sulfide, SrS, electrode developed via the sonochemical method. Its capacitive and diffusive contributions are then studied using a new take on the regression parameters of the k1—k2 model.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES A novel triple-cycle system based on high-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell, thermoelectric generator, and thermally regenerative electrochemical refrigerator for power and cooling cogeneration Xinru Guo, Houcheng Zhang, Yumin Guo, Jiangfeng WangVersion of Record online:11 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7658Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Si@MXene/graphene crumbled spherical nanocomposites Vediyappan Thirumal, Rathinam Yuvakkumar, Ponnusamy Senthil Kumar, Ganesan Ravi, Dhayalan VelauthapillaiVersion of Record online:10 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7743Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE REVIEW PAPERS Selection of working fluids for solar organic Rankine cycle—A review Pradeep Arjunan, Joselin Herbert Gnana Muthu, Suresh Lal Somanasari Radha, Abhilash SuryanVersion of Record online:10 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7723📷Heat transfer fluids (HTF) are used to collect heat from the sun through a solar collector. Organic fluids (working fluids) extract heat from the HTF in an evaporator and run the turbine. Identification of a suitable combination of HTF and organic fluid is the key for the development of a solar organic Rankine cycle system. This system can be used for generating electricity for small-scale applications like residential buildings and small industries. Novelty is the identification of a suitable combination of HTF and organic fluids. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Electrostatic flocking MnO2 nanofiber electrode for long cycling stability supercapacitors Mengru Li, Liming Qin, KangTai Ou, Zhiyuan Xiong, Hengyu Zheng, Youyi SunVersion of Record online:10 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7692📷A new double-layer hybrid electrode based on MnO2 nanofibers was developed. The electrode was prepared by electrostatic flocking method. The electrode exhibited excellent electrochemical stability.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Wearable fabric supercapacitors based on CNTs and polyhedral ZnO with a wide potential window Edmund Samuel, Bhavana Joshi, Chanwoo Park, Ali Aldalbahi, Mohamed El-Newehy, Hae-Seok Lee, Sam S. YoonVersion of Record online:09 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7720📷The decoration of fabric fibers by zinc oxide polyhedron and carbon nanotube via hydrothermal for use as flexible and lightweight supercapacitor electrodes was demonstrated. The hexagonal structures in a one-step deposition, without any binder and a metallic current collector increase the specific capacitance and energy density of the overall device. The exceptional stability during long-term cycling and wide (1.6 V) operating potential were also demonstrated.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Ball-milling route to design hierarchical nanohybrid cobalt oxide structures with cellulose nanocrystals interface for supercapacitors Ramasubba Reddy Palem, Ganesh Shimoga, Iqra Rabani, Chinna Bathula, Young-Soo Seo, Hyun-Seok Kim, Sang-Youn Kim, Soo-Hong LeeVersion of Record online:09 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7744📷Nanocellulose based composite materials has attracted much attention in the fabrication of supercapacitor electrodes. Green ball-milling technique was set forth for the fabrication of hierarchical Co3O4 nano-hybrid structures in connotation with cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs). The nano-hybrid hierarchical electrode (Co3O4@CNC) showed excellent specific capacitance of 396 F/g than its pristine Co3O4 nanostructure electrode (268 F/g) at a current density of 1.0 A/g for three-electrode cell assembly.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Multifunctional photo-electrocatalysts of copper sulfides prepared via pulsed laser ablation in liquid: Phase formation kinetics and photo-electrocatalytic activity Talshyn Begildayeva, Deviprasath Chinnadurai, Seung Jun Lee, Myong Yong ChoiVersion of Record online:09 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7721📷The formation mechanism of copper sulfide nanospheres by PLAL technique in different sulfur sources was proposed. The copper-rich Cu1.95S phase achieved higher OER and MOR activity due to the enriched active sites of Cu atoms on the catalyst surface. Meanwhile, the CuS phase exhibited a good HER activity with a lower overpotential due to its higher ECSA. The effect of light absorption in an electrocatalytic activity and their phase-dependent photo-electrocatalytic activities were investigated.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Optimal sizing of hybrid renewable energy systems by considering power sharing and electric vehicles Delnia Sadeghi, Nima Amiri, Mousa Marzband, Abdullah Abusorrah, Khaled SedraouiVersion of Record online:09 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7729Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE SHORT COMMUNICATION Optimization and modeling of carbohydrate production in microalgae for use as feedstock in bioethanol fermentation Billriz E. Condor, Mark Daniel G. de Luna, Ralf Ruffel M. Abarca, Yu-Han Chang, Yoong Kit Leong, Chun-Yen Chen, Po-Ting Chen, Duu-Jong Lee, Jo-Shu ChangVersion of Record online:09 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7709📷Response surface methodology (RSM) and artificial neural networks (ANN) models were used to investigate the experimental parameters. RSM showed all investigated parameters and some interactions were significant. ANN gave a higher R2 value (0.9959) than RSM (0.9873). Microalgal biomass produced was used as feedstock for bioethanol fermentation. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Enhancement of battery life in microgrid energy management using mixed integer linear programming and hybrid knapsack Yasoda Kailasa Gounder, Sowkarthika SubramanianVersion of Record online:09 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7717Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions An ultrahigh-energy density and wide potential window aqueous electrolyte supercapacitor built by polypyrrole/aniline 2-sulfonic acid modified carbon felt electrode Sibel Yazar, Melih Besir Arvas, Yucel SahinVersion of Record online:09 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7706📷PPy/ASA modified carbon felt electrode was produced for energy storage application. Graphite plate was used to assembled asymmetric supercapacitor with 3 M KCl and reached up to 3.0 V high-voltage operating supercapacitor with aqueous electrolyte. CFt/PPy/ASA(0.02)//GP exhibits a high specific capacitance value of 902.9 F g−1 at 5 mV s−1 and after 5000 cycle-life testing 93.6% capacitance retention. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS Study on the surface segregation of mixed ionic-electronic conductor lanthanum-based perovskite oxide La1−xSrxCo1−yFeyO3−δ materials Suhaida Dila Safian, Nurul Izzati Abd Malek, Zadariana Jamil, Sheng-Wei Lee, Chung-Jen Tseng, Nafisah OsmanVersion of Record online:09 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7733📷Factors Influence Strontium Segregation on LSCF Perovskite Oxide.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Gd2O3 nanoparticles modified wave-like carbon host derived from soybean residue as cathodes in lithium–sulfur batteries Yinglin Yan, Wei Jing, Yuanyuan Yang, Chaojiang Fan, Mangmang Shi, Bing Ren, Yiming Zou, Zufei Feng, Caiyin You, Qijiu Deng, Rong YangVersion of Record online:08 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7746📷Gd2O3 nanoparticles were attached in wave-like hierarchical porous carbon pyrolyzed from soybean residue. Gd2O3/carbon composite integrated with sulfur was utilized as cathode in Li–S battery. The carbon matrix with ultra-high specific surface area is beneficial for the specific capacity. The Gd2O3 nanoparticles showed significant adsorption ability for polysulfides, which improved the cycling stability. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Power generation and toluene bioremediation through single chamber benthic microbial fuel cell fed with sugarcane waste as a substrate Mohammad Faisal Umar, Mohd Rafatullah, Moonis Ali Khan, Masoom Raza Siddiqui, Byong-Hun JeonVersion of Record online:08 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7747📷The single chamber benthic microbial fuel cell produced a voltage of 0.530 V between 40-80 days when the external resistance was 1 kΩ. Within 41 days, the highest power density and current density generated approximately 34.7 mW/m2 and 120 mA/m2. The scanning electron micrographs revealed that pores on the multi-anode surface were improperly spaced, but these pores were for biofilm growth. The results of the 16S rRNA pyro-sequencing revealed the presence of Staphylococcus sp. and Pseudomonas sp.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Photo-thermal conversion performance of mono MWCNT and hybrid MWCNT-TiN nanofluids in direct absorption solar collectors Nianben Zheng, Fang Yan, Long Wang, Zhiqiang SunVersion of Record online:07 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7730📷Stable mono MWCNT and hybrid MWCNT-TiN nanofluids were prepared for DASC applications The optical absorption capability was further increased by adding TiN to MWCNT nanofluids The hybrid nanofluids increased the collector efficiency by 6.9% compared to the mono nanofluids. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Thermal energy storage characteristics of polyacrylic acid/dodecanol/carbon nanofiber composites as thermal conductive shape-stabilized composite phase change materials Gökhan Hekimoğlu, Ahmet Sarı, Osman Gencel, V.V. TyagiVersion of Record online:04 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7732📷DSC analysis revealed the highly favorable LHTES properties of the PAA/DDA(70 wt%)/CNF(10 wt%) composite as melting at 18.04°C and having a phase change enthalpy as high as 157.03 J/g. PAA/DDA(70 wt%)/CNF(10 wt%) composite had an excellent thermal resistance. CNF doping lead to a significant increment in the thermal conductivity of the PAA/DDA composite. All test results suggest that especially shape-stabilized PAA/DDA/CNF composite PCM can be evaluated as energy-saving materials for thermal management of buildings.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES An investigation on the addition of SrTiO3 to the hydrogen storage properties of the 4MgH2-Li3AlH6 composite Nurul Nafiqah Itam Sulaiman, Muhammad Syarifuddin Yahya, Noratiqah Sazelee, Nurul Amirah Ali, Nurul Shafikah Mustafa, Muhammad Firdaus Asyraf Abdul Halim Yap, Mohammad IsmailVersion of Record online:02 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7704📷The SrTiO3/4MgH2-Li3AlH6 composite has started to release hydrogen at 135°C and 215°C, for the first two steps of desorption. In terms of the rehydrogenation kinetics, the composite of SrTiO3/4MgH2-Li3AlH6 composite absorbed approximately 4.23 wt% of hydrogen within 30 minutes of adsorption at 320°C. The improvement in the hydrogen sorption performances of the 4MgH2-Li3AlH6 composite is mainly ascribed to the pulverization effect introduced by SrTiO3 as the SrTiO3 in this study is observed to be stable and inert.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Highly stable bulk heterojunction organic solar cells based on asymmetric benzoselenadiazole-oriented organic chromophores Abdullah, Eun-Bi Kim, M. Shaheer Akhtar, Sadia AmeenVersion of Record online:02 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7683📷A new asymmetrically designed D-A-D organic chromophore (RSeT) was synthesized and applied as an electron donor material for stable bulk heterojunction organic solar cells (BHJ-OSCs). A high power conversion efficiency of 6.88% with Voc of ~0.985 V, Jsc of ~11.26 mA/cm2 and fill factor (FF) of ~0.62 was obtained by BHJ-OSC fabricated with RSeT:PC61BM (1:3, w/w) active layer and buffer layer of c-TiO2, which presented a good stability under ambient condition.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions A cascade bilayer electron transport layer toward efficient and stable Ruddlesden-Popper perovskite solar cells Kyeong Su Kim, Woosung Lee, Jae Woong JungVersion of Record online:02 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7725📷A hybrid bilayer electront ransport layer (ETL) structure is designed to optimize and improve optoelectronic properties of interface of 2D Ruddlesden–Popper perovskites -based solar cells. The n-type organic semiconductors inserted onto the SnO2 ELT effectively passivate defective sites and oxygen vacancy antisites at the interface, attaining efficient electron transport and carrier recombination blocking within the devices. In addition, the organic semiconductors on SnO2 afford more hydrophobic surface, resulting in outstanding long-term stability of the device in ambient atmosphere up to >300 hours.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Relationship between torrefaction severity, product properties, and pyrolysis characteristics of various biomass Seunghan Yu, Heeyoon Kim, Jinje Park, Yongwoon Lee, Young-Kwon Park, Changkook RyuVersion of Record online:02 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7716Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Distribution network energy loss reduction under EV charging schedule Aggelos S. Bouhouras, Despoina Kothona, Paschalis A. Gkaidatzis, Georgios C. ChristoforidisVersion of Record online:02 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7727📷This paper deals with the problem of energy losses in Distribution Networks under EV penetration. An optimization EV charging schedule is proposed under EV time-of-arrival consideration. The goal is to optimally allocate the charging and/or discharging time periods of the EVs in order to minimize energy losses. New departures after the first EVs’ arrival are also handled. The results indicate that with the proposed scheduling, daily energy loss reduction could be reached up to 25% under an improved voltage profile.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS Zinc oxide/graphene nanocomposite as efficient photoelectrode in dye-sensitized solar cells: Recent advances and future outlook Savisha Mahalingam, Foo Wah Low, Azimah Omar, Abreeza Manap, Nasrudin Abd Rahim, Chun Hui Tan, Huda Abdullah, Chun Hong Voon, Mamat Rokhmat, Edy Wibowo, Cheen Sean OonVersion of Record online:02 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7722📷Highlighted the structural, optical, electron transport, limitations, and interaction of dye in ZnO/graphene derivatives for DSSCs. ZnO/graphene-based DSSCs would be very helpful for researchers studying these materials as photoanode in DSSCs. A detailed electron transport mechanism of ZnO/graphene-based DSSCs have been intensively reviewed. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES The preparation of 0D/2D P-doped MnxCd1-xS/Ni2P photocatalyst and its photocatalytic activity of pure water splitting for H2 Jiaowei Yan, Lei ShiVersion of Record online:02 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7724📷A novel 0D/2D P-doped MnxCd1-xS/Ni2P photocatalyst was prepared and exhibited excellent photocatalytic ability for splitting pure water.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Aqueous redox flow battery using iron 2,2-bis(hydroxymethyl)-2,2′,2′-nitrilotriethanol complex and ferrocyanide as newly developed redox couple Mingyu Shin, Seunghye Oh, Hayoung Jeong, Chanho Noh, Yongjin Chung, Jeong Woo Han, Yongchai KwonVersion of Record online:01 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7718📷Herein, we present an all-iron aqueous redox flow battery (ARFB) using iron (Fe) 2,2-bis(hydroxymethyl)-2,2′,2′-nitrilotriethanol (BIS-TRIS) complex (Fe(BIS-TRIS)) and Ferrocyanide (Fe(CN)6) as redox couple. The redox couple is appropriate due to excellent redox reactivity and potential, and cheap cost. ARFBs using Fe(BIS-TRIS) shows excellent capacity of 11.7 Ah L-1 and coulombic efficiency and capacity retention rate of 99.8 and 99.9 % even over 250 cycles.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Surface activated natural wood biomass electrode for efficient microbial electrocatalysis: Performance and mechanism Zi-Ai Xu, Xiao-Meng Ma, Yu-Tong Shi, Jamile Mohammadi Moradian, Yan-Zhai Wang, Guo-Feng Sun, Jing Du, Xiao-Mei Ye, Yang-Chun YongVersion of Record online:01 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7705📷A sustainable and efficient 2D/3D surface activated wood electrode was fabricated and applied for high performance microbial fuel cell.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Novel urea-based compounds as solid-solid phase change materials: 1,3-bisstearoylurea and 1,1,3,3-tetrastearoylurea for thermal energy storage applications Nazan Gökşen Tosun, Aylin Çetin, Cemil AlkanVersion of Record online:01 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7697📷The urea compounds produced by condensation of urea and a stearic acid derivative showed 2 distinct, reversible and stable phase transitions. The transitions were assigned to primary crystallites of alkyl side groups to be potantially exploited for thermal energy storage and secondary crystallites of urea based centers. The distance between the phase transitions was examined in term of structure property relations.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES State of charge estimation of an electric vehicle's battery using tiny neural network embedded on small microcontroller units Yahia Mazzi, Hicham Ben Sassi, Ahmed Gaga, Fatima ErrahimiVersion of Record online:01 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7713📷This paper proposes for the first time a quantization of two deep neural network models dedicated for EV battery SOC estimation, using TensorFlow Lite Micro. This resulted in reduction of the computational requirements of the two models, making them suitable for implementation on EV’s limited MCUs.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Supportive activity of Pt nanoparticles on the nitrogen-doped graphene nanosheet with vacancy defects for catalyzing neutral glucose oxidation Tzu-Pei Wang, Ping-Yuan Tsou, Chien-Liang LeeVersion of Record online:01 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7710📷Catalyst support alters the electronic structure of metal catalysts, resulting in an enhanced activity. In this study, nitrogen-doped defective graphene nanosheet-supported Pt nanoparticles (2.8 nm) (Pt/N-dGN) were prepared and successfully used as electrocatalysts in the sequential and transient catalysis of the neutral d-glucose oxidation reaction (GOR). The Pt/N-dGN with point vacancies, 5-8-5, 5-9, and 5-7-7-5 defects showed significant mass activity (7.83 × 1019 molecules g−1Pt) toward the sequential catalysis of neutral GOR.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Electrospun zinc-manganese bimetallic oxide carbon nanofibers as freestanding supercapacitor electrodes Bhavana Joshi, Edmund Samuel, Yongil Kim, Taegun Kim, Mohamed El-Newehy, Ali Aldalbahi, Sam S. YoonVersion of Record online:01 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7719📷Electrospinning of zinc-manganese oxide fibers and their electrochemical characteristics.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Restructured Co-Ru alloys via electrodeposition for efficient hydrogen production in proton exchange membrane water electrolyzers Taegyeom Lee, Yoonsu Park, Hoyoung Kim, Yun-Kun Hong, Eunseo Hwang, Minyoung Kim, Soo-Kil Kim, Don-Hyung HaVersion of Record online:01 February 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7699📷The hierarchically porous Co-Ru catalysts with excellent catalytic activity and durability were fabricated by the facile electrodeposition process as well as the electrochemical etching process. The Co-Ru alloy with optimal composition exhibited high performance in both half-cell and PEMWE tests, due to the abundance of catalytic active sites upon alloying of Co and Ru. The facile fabrication process for Co-Ru alloy electrodes can provide new insights into the design of porous alloy nanostructures through electrodeposition.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Energy management in standalone AC/DC microgrid with sectionalized ring bus and hybrid resources Reza Hemmati, Hossien FarajiVersion of Record online:31 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7707Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS DFT study of X-site ion substitution doping of Cs2PtX6 on its structural and electronic properties Xinyu Ye, Anmin Liu, Yue Zhao, Qianji Han, Takeshi Kitamura, Tingli MaVersion of Record online:31 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7696Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS A perspective on development of fuel cell materials: Electrodes and electrolyte Ahmed Sajid, Erum Pervaiz, Hatim Ali, Tayyaba Noor, Mutawara Mahmood BaigVersion of Record online:30 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7635📷Critical analysis of electrode and electrolyte materials for different types of fuel cells. Advantages and challenges to make Fuel Cells market compatible and future of energy in our world are discussed in detail.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Techno-economic analysis of a hybrid solar wind electric vehicle charging station in highway roads Jayasankar Nishanthy, Sathiasamuel Charles Raja, Thangavel Praveen, Joseph Jeslin Drusila Nesamalar, Paramasivam VenkateshVersion of Record online:30 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7688📷Designing real-time hybrid EV charging station using solar and wind the selected five highway locations of Tamil Nadu. Performing sensitivity analysis with solar irradiance and wind velocity parameters, cost analysis with NPC, simple payback period, operation maintenance, and COE using HOMER tool. Optimal sizing of PV solar and wind turbine act with ON-grid configurations are carried out at five highway locations.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Open AccessStudy of radionuclide inventory in nuclear fuel under uncertainties in boron concentration using high-fidelity models Christian Castagna, Erez GiladVersion of Record online:30 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7702Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Enhancing the structural, thermal, and dielectric properties of the polymer nanocomposites based on polymer blend and barium titanate nanoparticles for application in energy storage Mervet R. Atta, Norah Algethami, Mohammed O. Farea, Qana A. Alsulami, Abdulwahab RajehVersion of Record online:30 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7703📷Solution casting and ultrasonic-assisted solution-cast methods were used to create polymer nanocomposites films based on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) filled with varying concentrations of BaTiO3 nanoparticles. The X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR), transmission electron microscope, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) were used to study the properties of the produced polymer nanocomposite samples.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Enhancement of perovskite solar cell performance by external down-conversion of Eu-complex film Ju Won Yang, Dong In Kim, Rak Hyun Jeong, Seong Park, Jin-Hyo BooVersion of Record online:30 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7701Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Rational design of porous Ru-doped CuO nanoarray on carbon cloth: Toward reversible catalyst layer for efficient Li-O2 batteries Heewon Yoo, Gwang-Hee Lee, Myeong-Chang Sung, Dong-Wan KimVersion of Record online:30 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7714📷Ru-CuO/RuO2@CC is synthesized via TCNQ-solution deposition and thermal oxidation. It is applied as a cathode catalyst layer for Li-O2 battery. As-synthesized Ru-CuO/RuO2@CC catalyst layer has consisted of robust 3-D interconnected conductive network and porous 1-D structure of Ru-doped CuO nanorods. Its physical and chemical interactions provide efficient ORR/ORR activities of Li-O2 batteries.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Biochar as a catalyst in the production of syngas and biodiesel from peanut waste Minyoung Kim, Jong-Min Jung, Sungyup Jung, Jeonghwan Kim, Amit Bhatnagar, Yiu Fai Tsang, Kun-Yi Andrew Lin, Eilhann E. KwonVersion of Record online:30 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7708📷Peanut waste was valorized into syngas, bio-oil, and biochar through a pyrolysis platform. Biochar obtained from the peanut waste was also used as a catalyst for biodiesel and syngas productions.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Performance evaluation of coated carbon foam material in heat exchanger applications Mohammad R. Almajali, Omar Quran, Khalid LafdiVersion of Record online:29 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7686Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Synthesis and characterization of nickel doped TiO2 nanoparticles by green method and its performance as dye-sensitized solar cells photoanodes Rajkumar Senthamarai, Venkatraman Madurai Ramakrishnan, Prabhu Murugan, Anbarasan Ponnusamy Munusamy, Suguna KulandhaivelVersion of Record online:28 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7677Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions The impact of a trace amount of water in an electrolyte on the performance of Li-ion batteries—An empirical kinetic model approach Wan Liu, Hongwei Cai, Dan Liu, Ruiqing Hua, Hongyang Gao, Ruiming Zhang, Haolin Tang, Junsheng Li, Deyu QuVersion of Record online:28 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7700📷Certain amounts of trace water were intentionally added into the LIBs electrolytes and the kinetic information of the reaction with LiPF6 was investigated. Meantime, the impact of those electrolytes upon the LIBs performance was also studied by an empirical kinetic model to calculate capacity attenuation constant as well as the activation energy of capacity decay.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Open AccessAn innovated method to monitor the health condition of the thermoelectric cooling system using nanocomposite-based CNTs Mohammed Al-Bahrani, Hasan Shakir Majdi, Azher M. Abed, Alistair CreeVersion of Record online:28 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7657📷Self-sensing nanocomposite sensors based CNTs were fabricated with the aim of using them as a simple mechanism for monitoring the TEC system's health condition. The electrical properties, thickness and microstructure of the constructed sensor were studied. From the results, as the thickness increased, conductivity exhibited a monotonic increase. Moreover, the sensors exhibited a high-temperature sensitivity with a negative temperature coefficient of resistance. The numerical results in this study provide a clear indication of the efficiency of the kind of sensors.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Symmetric aqueous redox flow battery using hydroiodic acid and anthraquinone-2,7-disulfonic acid as redox couple Agnesia Permatasari, Wonmi Lee, Yongchai KwonVersion of Record online:27 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7691📷Herein, we present a symmetric aqueous redox flow battery (ARFB) using the mixture of hydroiodic acid and anthraquinone-2,7-disulfonic acid in both electrolytes to prevent the crossover issue of iodide ions and to increase the performance of the ARFB. With that, its energy efficiency and discharging capacity are excellent as 67.6% and 26.6 Ah L−1, respectively, with capacity retention of 99.99% for 100 cycles.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Effect of NO2 on ignition characteristics of methanol and chemical kinetics analysis Yongchao Dong, Xin Wang, Zhihao Ma, Xin Li, Yifan JinVersion of Record online:25 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7685📷The ignition delay time of methanol fuel mixed with NO2 under different temperature and equivalent ratios was measured. A new detailed combined reduced mechanism (methanol-NO2 model) was established. The main cause of NO2 promoting ignition of methanol fuel was analyzed. The reaction path of methanol fuel mixed with NO2 addition was discussed. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Effects of activated Sr2+ ion content on strong blue-emitting Ca2Sb2O7 materials for high-quality WLED devices Yongbin Hua, Weiguang Ran, Peipei Dang, Wang Tian, Jae Su YuVersion of Record online:25 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7689Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS Recent advances in oxygen deficient metal oxides: Opportunities as supercapacitor electrodes Jai Kumar, Ho Jin Jung, Rana R. Neiber, Razium Ali Soomro, Young Je Kwon, Naveed Ul Hassan, Minyoung Shon, Jin Hong Lee, Kyung-Youl Baek, Kie Yong ChoVersion of Record online:25 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7675📷The review describes the centralized approach of oxygen vacancies-enriched metal oxides in supercapacitors and their advancement in energy storage devices. It could be summarized that inducing oxygen vacancies in Metal oxides is a viable technique for improving their intrinsic electronic structure, electrical conductivity, and electrocatalytic activity. The intrinsic approach has thus attracted significant attention from the energy storage community based on its capability to alter the atomic level configuration of MOs without compromising the structural characteristics.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Effect of stacking sequence on the structural ordering and phase formation in the sequentially deposited copper zinc tin sulfide thin films Nagabhushan Jnaneshwar Choudhari, Y. Raviprakash, Sajan D. George, M. S. MurariVersion of Record online:25 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7678📷The novelty of the present work is a detailed presentation of conclusive evidence for significant variation in the structural disorder and phase formation of the copper zinc tin sulfide (CZTS) thin films with changes in stacking sequence. This manuscript comprises of a comprehensive discussion on the stack order variation and sulfurization of CZTS thin films with three different combinations of precursors and their influence on the antisite disorder, phase, and defect formation.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions ZIF-67 derived hollow double-shell core Co3O4 modified g-C3N4 to construct p-n heterojunction for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution Dujuan Li, Xiaoli Ma, Peng Su, Zhibo Jiang, Zhiliang JinVersion of Record online:25 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7655📷The study titled “ZIF-67 derived hollow double-shell core Co3O4 modified g-C3N4 to construct p-n heterojunction for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution” co-authored by Dujuan Li, Xiaoli Ma, Peng Su, Zhibo Jiang, Zhiliang Jin used the hollow polyhedron-shaped Co3O4 to modify g-C3N4 to promote photocatalytic hydrogen evolution. The results show that the synthesis of the p-n heterojunction composite catalyst CNCO (g-C3N4@Co3O4) accelerates the charge mobility and provides a space support site for high-efficiency hydrogen evolution.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Thermodynamic design, evaluation, and optimization of a novel quadruple generation system combined of a fuel cell, an absorption refrigeration cycle, and an electrolyzer Leyla Khani, Mahsa Mohammadpour, Mousa Mohammadpourfard, Saeed Zeinali Heris, Gülden Gökçen AkkurtVersion of Record online:24 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7634📷In this article, thermodynamic and environmental performances of a new power, heating, cooling, and hydrogen quadruple-generation system based on a solid oxide fuel cell are studied comprehensively. Then, the genetic algorithm is used to find the best operating parameters for the highest exergy efficiency. The obtained results show that the highest exergy destruction occurs in the SOFC stack.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Electrochemical performance of Quercus infectoria as a supercapacitor carbon electrode material Murat AkdemirVersion of Record online:24 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7674Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Synthesis of MoO3 by pilot-scale combustion reaction and evaluation in biodiesel production from residual oil Adriano Lima da Silva, Ana Flávia Felix Farias, João Baptista da Costa Agra de Melo, Alisson Mendes Rodrigues, Simoni Margareti Plentz Meneghetti, Ana Cristina Figueiredo de Melo CostaVersion of Record online:24 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7679Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Multiobjective optimization model for renewable energy sources and load demands uncertainty consideration for optimal design of hybrid combined cooling, heating, and power systems K. Elango, A. Prakash, L. UmasankarVersion of Record online:24 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7684Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Boron-doped porous carbon material derived from ZIF-11: Investigation of cotton fabric supercapacitor and Li-ion battery performances Nesrin Bugday, Serdar Altin, Fatih Bulut, Emine Altin, Sedat YaşarVersion of Record online:24 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7676📷Nitrogen-doped porous carbon (NPC@ZIF-11) and boron-NPC (BNPC@ZIF-11) materials were synthesized by pyrolysis methods, and structural characterization of the compounds was carried out by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, Brunauer–Elmet–Teller technique, Raman spectroscopy, and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry techniques.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Solvent modulated self-assembled VS2 layered microstructure for electrocatalytic water and urea decomposition Supriya A. Patil, Nabeen K. Shrestha, Hoa Thi Bui, Vijay D. Chavan, Deok-kee Kim, Shoyebmohamad F. Shaikh, Mohd Ubaidullah, Hyungsang Kim, Hyunsik ImVersion of Record online:24 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7651📷A novel concept of recycling waste-water and simultaneous generation of green H2 fuel using microflowered structure of VS2 has been adopted in this work. A solvent modulated approach is employed to fabricate a layered VS2 microflowered structure and employed as a bifunctional electrocatalyst for water and urea electrolysis. It was able to achieve a current density of 10 mA cm−2 for overall urea oxidation reaction, with a low cell potential of 1.38 V vs RHE in alkaline electrolyte containing 0.33 M urea.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Investigation of magnetron sputtered Ni@Cu/WS2 as an electrode material for potential supercapattery devices Muhammad Zahir Iqbal, Meshal Alzaid, Usman Abbasi, Shahid Alam, Rashid Ali, Amir Muhammad Afzal, Sikandar AftabVersion of Record online:23 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7641📷The study presents the electrochemical analysis of magnetron sputtered pristine tungsten disulfide (WS2) and WS2 anchored over copper (Cu) interfacial layer by employing nickel foam as a current collector. Based on electrochemical characterizations the device showed excellent Qs of 185.8 C/g and high energy density (Ed) and power density (Pd) of 43.9 Wh/kg and 425 W/kg, respectively. Furthermore, for a high current density (js) of 8 A/g the device procured a maximum Pd of 6800 W/kg. For the cyclic test, the device exhibited efficient stability performance of 98.1% against 4500 consecutive GCD cycles.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS Effect of the micro-, meso- and macropores on the electrochemical performance of supercapacitors: A review Ricardo Mendoza, Jorge Oliva, Vicente Rodriguez-GonzalezVersion of Record online:23 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7670📷The review summarizes the main literature about the use of micro-, meso- and macroporous materials for supercapacitor applications We explained how parameters such as pore size, pore volume and surface area are correlated with the electrochemical performance of supercapacitors, this information has not been summarized previously in the literature. Also, we described how the type of pore (micro-, meso- or macroporous) strongly influences the capacitance and the cycling stability of the devices. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES A novel collaborative multiscale weighting factor-adaptive Kalman filtering method for the time-varying whole-life-cycle state of charge estimation of lithium-ion batteries Shunli Wang, Yongcun Fan, Chunmei Yu, Siyu Jin, Paul Takyi-Aninakwa, Carlos Fernandez, Daniel-Ioan StroeVersion of Record online:23 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7672📷A novel weighting factor-adaptive Kalman filtering (WF-AKF) method is proposed for the whole-life-cycle state of charge (SOC) estimation of lithium-ion batteries. The improved collaborative bipartite electrical equivalent circuit (BEEC) model is constructed by considering the time-varying factors. An adaptive multi-time scale model is built with real-time estimation and correction strategies. Multiple influencing factors are taken into consideration, including internal parameters, ambient temperature, and current rate variation. The proposed WF-AKF algorithm stabilizes the large initial SOC estimation error by tracking the actual value with a maximum error of 0.46% under time-varying ambient temperatures, current rates, and complex working condition. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Strain-induced tunable energy barrier of proton diffusion in Y-doped BaCeO3 and Y-doped BaZrO3 Hongwei Niu, Yuhang Jing, Yi Sun, Licheng Guo, Narayana R. Aluru, Weiqi Li, Jianqun Yang, Xingji LiVersion of Record online:23 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7682📷We extend the investigation of the strain effect of the proton diffusion energy barrier to Y-doped BaCeO3 (BCY) and Y-doped BaZrO3 (BZY), which manifest excellent proton conductivity. Proton diffusion in BCY was decomposed to a three elementary steps mechanism to provide a microscopic picture of the process. The different strain effect of the proton diffusion energy barrier of BCY and BZY during intra-octahedral proton transfer is attributed to the bond order changes of the hydrogen bond during the elementary steps. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Open AccessStrategies on energy loss reduction from high-temperature steam for stable hydrogen production using solid-recovered fuel Sunhee Oh, Seonggon Kim, Minjeong Cho, Chong Pyo Cho, Seong-Ryong Park, Yong Tae KangVersion of Record online:21 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7659📷A high-temperature steam generation system for supplying steam to the water electrolysis was designed and built using solid-recovered fuel (SRF), and obtained a heat source having a temperature of 973 K. In order to reliably supply hydrogen production, heat loss must be reduced, and there are three strategies: (a) using a double pipe, (b) installing a baffle inside the pipe to block the steam flow, and (c) bypassing the overflowing steam. Double pipe reduces heat loss by 25% compared to single pipe. In addition, when three baffles are installed inside the double pipe, heat dissipation is reduced by about 6%. Therefore, it was proved that installing 3 to 4 internal baffles inside the double pipe is the most effective method, and it was confirmed that the temperature of the external fluid should be maintained at 573 K or higher.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions REVIEW PAPERS A conceptual review on transformation of micro-grid to virtual power plant: Issues, modeling, solutions, and future prospects Subhasis Panda, Sarthak Mohanty, Pravat Kumar Rout, Binod Kumar SahuVersion of Record online:21 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7671📷Major contribution of this review article are as follows:The current review article concerns some valuable contributions on VPP's impact on the energy market, energy trade, spot pricing, bidding strategies, and EVs integration in grids. Scheduling of DERs is focused on in detail as it affects the overall performance of the VPP. This review presents the systematic way of transforming from the microgrid concept to the VPP framework for researchers, consumers, prosumers, and utility operators. Optimization algorithms are explained and discussed in different aspects including the Artificial Intelligence (AI) techniques and advance computational intelligence methods. The communication infrastructure of the VPP is presented briefly to highlight its main features and major role as a driver for the implementation of the VPP concept in real time. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Optimal Fe/Ni/Ca-Al catalyst for tar model steam reforming by using the Taguchi method Chao-Wei Huang, Chih-Hsin Hsieh, Janusz Lasek, Yueh-Heng LiVersion of Record online:20 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7681📷Ca/Al molar ratio of 2.5. Calcining temperature of 1073 K. 3 wt% iron metal loading. 7 wt% nickel metal loading. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Preparation and characterization of novel CuS/SiO2@n-octadecane phase-change nanocapsules enhanced photothermal conversion for solar energy utilization Lei Liu, Shuoyang Liang, Xiang Cheng, Min Guo, Fangqin Cheng, Mei ZhangVersion of Record online:20 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7648Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Accelerating the charging process in a shell and dual coil ice storage unit equipped with connecting plates Farhad Afsharpanah, Khashayar Pakzad, Seyed Soheil Mousavi Ajarostaghi, Sébastien Poncet, Kurosh SedighiVersion of Record online:20 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7654Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Improvement of structural stability of cathode by manganese additive in electrolyte for zinc-ion batteries Sijin Park, Geon−Hyoung AnVersion of Record online:20 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7687Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Facile synthesis of MgCo2O4 hexagonal nanostructure via co-precipitation approach and its supercapacitive properties Jai Bhagwan, B. N. Vamsi Krishna, Jae Su YuVersion of Record online:20 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7680📷The MgCo2O4 hexagonal nanoplates are synthesized via a facile co-precipitation technique. The nanoplate structures provide the enhanced surface area, increasing the contact region at the electrode/electrolyte. The synthesized MgCo2O4 hexagonal nanoplate electrode is used for asymmetric supercapacitor (ASC), which reveals good electrochemical properties, together with practical applications using ASCs.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Design of affordable sustainable energy supply systems for residential buildings: A case study Edwin S. Pinto, Luis M. Serra, Ana LázaroVersion of Record online:19 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7660📷Evaluation of different technologies such as renewable energy, heat pumps, energy storage, among others, in the pathway to achieve sustainable energy systems for residential buildings considering the current Spanish legal restrictions, stablishing guidelines for the proper design of polygeneration systems for residential buildings at an affordable cost, aligned with short term EU objectives on climate change, as well as with the objective of reaching affordable carbon neutral energy systems for buildings in the long term of 2050.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Fabricating V2AlC/g-C3N4 nanocomposite with MAX as electron moderator for promoting photocatalytic CO2-CH4 reforming to CO/H2 Mohamed Madi, Muhammad TahirVersion of Record online:19 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7667📷The vanadium aluminum carbide (V2AlC) supported g-C3N4 composite was successfully synthesized for photocatalytic dry reforming of methane (DRM) under solar energy. The performance of g-C3N4 was significantly enhanced due to proficient charges separation with higher visible light absorption. The continuous production of CO/H2 during photoinduced DRM with higher photoactivity and stability was achieved in multiple cycles.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions 11,11,12,12-tetracyano-9,10-anthraquinonedimethane as a sustainable cathode for room temperature all solid-state lithium battery Weibo Shi, Jiayao Wang, Xinyi Zhang, Qingli Wang, Wenwen DengVersion of Record online:19 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7668📷We designed an all solid-state lithium-ion battery (ASSLIB) with 11,11,12,12-tetracyano-9,10-anthraquinonedimethane (TCAQ) as the cathode and lithium metal as the anode. The ASSOLB can deliver a capacity of 84.4 mAh g−1 at 0.1C (1C = 176 mA g−1) and a capacity retention of 73% after 100 cycles. TCAQ is metal-free resource abundant, acting as a sustainable cathode for ASSLIBs.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Analysis of a linear programming-based decision-making model for microgrid energy management systems with renewable sources Karim Bio Gassi, Mustafa BaysalVersion of Record online:18 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7656Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions One-step synthesis of nitrogen-doped graphene powders and application of them as high-performance symmetrical coin cell supercapacitors in different aqueous electrolyte Melih Besir Arvas, Nilgün Karatepe, Metin Gencten, Yucel SahinVersion of Record online:18 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7642📷Nitrogen-doped graphene powders were prepared by Yucel's Method with cyclic voltammetry at different potential ranges for selective modification of the powders with functional groups. The powders were used for production of the electrode materials of symmetric supercapacitors. The highest specific capacitance, energy and power values were determined as 235.3 F.g−1, 158.2 Wh.kg−1 and 1760 W.kg−1, respectively.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Thermophysical investigation of metallic nanocomposite phase change materials for indoor thermal management Veerakumar Chinnasamy, Honghyun ChoVersion of Record online:18 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7664📷The present study aims to enhance the thermophysical properties of lauryl alcohol using Al2O3, CuO, Fe3O4, and SiC nanoparticles. Further, the phase change temperatures, latent heat, specific heat, thermal conductivity, viscosity, thermal and chemical stability of the nanocomposite PCMs were studied through different characterization techniques along with the exothermic freezing process. A detailed investigation on nano-enhancement of lauryl alcohol using metallic nanoparticles is not available so far, and it is attempted to present in this research work.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Hydrogen production by thermochemical water splitting cycle using low-grade solar heat and phase change material energy storage system Mehdi Mehrpooya, Bahram Ghorbani, Mohammadmahdi KhodaverdiVersion of Record online:17 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7662📷A novel integrated system for renewable hydrogen production, power, and hot water from solar thermal energy has been developed and precisely evaluated in terms of thermodynamics. The structure is comprised of a four-step Cu-Cl thermochemical cycle, and an ORC unit to generate electricity. The required heat is supplied by a concentrated solar power plant and thermal energy storage based on latent heat. The total exergy efficiency and the prime cost of the product are 34.23% and 5.795 USD/kg H2, respectively.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Energy-related clean and green framework for shipbuilding community towards zero-emissions: A strategic analysis from concept to case study Seyedvahid Vakili, Aykut I. Ölçer, Alessandro Schönborn, Fabio Ballini, Anh Tuan HoangVersion of Record online:17 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7649📷A new concept of the environmentally sustainable shipyard is comprehensively developed A systematic multidisciplinary approach is considered to promote a green shipyard Framework implementation accelerates decarbonization from a life-cycle perspective Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Revealing the effects of conductive carbon materials on the cycling stability of rechargeable Zn-air batteries Zhongxi Zhao, Wentao Yu, Wenxu Shang, Yi He, Yanyi Ma, Zhuojun Zhang, Peng TanVersion of Record online:17 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7669📷The effects of conductive carbon materials on the cycling stability of rechargeable zinc-air batteries are usually overlooked. Unlike previous works where electrode characterization was performed at different stages of battery cycling or after failure, differential electrochemical mass spectrometry was introduced to directly monitor the gas released during different cycles. This work demonstrates the significant roles of conductive carbon materials in cycling stability and indicates that the in-situ gas analysis is essential to more rigorously evaluate the charging performance.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Hybrid dual conductor on Ni-rich NCM for superior electrochemical performance in Lithium-ion batteries Sungmin Na, Kwangjin ParkVersion of Record online:17 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7644Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Boron-containing nonwoven polymeric nanofiber mats as neutron shields in compact nuclear fusion reactors Mücahid Özcan, Erol Kam, Cengiz Kaya, Figen KayaVersion of Record online:17 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7652📷This manuscript reports on the production of electrospun boron-containing PVA nanofibers and their utilization as flexible shielding materials for nuclear fusion reactors as well as for personal protection against neutron radiation. The lightweight and flexible nanofiber mats were formed by electrospinning of a solution of PVA polymer with amorphous boron particles. It has been observed that as the weight ratio of the boron particles is increased, the neutron shielding properties also increase. In addition, fiber formability of solutions, fiber networking structure, and fiber sizes in the mat were found to have effects on neutron shielding capabilities. In recent years, it is of interest to produce radiation shielding materials for special applications such as nuclear energy production, nuclear medicine, and aerospace applications, at low cost, as the use of nuclear energy is increasing in demand. The production of lightweight and flexible shielding materials is particularly proven to be important for ease of production and use. Within our knowledge, the production of lightweight and highly neutron absorbent fiber-based materials containing boron-doped PVA nanofibers is reported for the first time in the literature. Hence, we believe that this paper will be of interest to a wide audience of the International Journal of Energy Research. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Optimization of inverted CH3NH3PbI3 based perovskite solar cells by experimental design Gokcen Gokceli, Sinem Bozar, Nilgun KaratepeVersion of Record online:13 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7666Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Performance assessment of a phase change charging mode in a vertical thermal energy storage system Mustafa Asker, Dincer Akal, Mehmet Akif EzanVersion of Record online:13 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7663📷The current work mainly aims to show the importance of natural convection during the melting process of PCM in a thermal energy storage system. The comparative results are evaluated considering the spatial and temporal temperature variations, the stored energy, the stored exergy, dimensionless effectiveness, and exergy efficiency. Varying the working and design parameters also lets us examine the influence of the natural convection-dominated melting process under different conditions. The results are discussed considering both the first law and second law aspects of thermodynamics.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Amorphous TiO2 nanotube arrays with Au nanocrystals for lithium-ion battery Wanggang Zhang, Yiming Liu, Zhiyuan Song, Fuqian YangVersion of Record online:13 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7661Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Experimental study on the preheating efficiency of an aluminum-rich ternary lithium-ion battery using constant-voltage preheating method Xiaolong Yang, Futao Zhang, Xiaolin Gao, Zeguang ZhouVersion of Record online:13 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7665Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Study on the redox performance of Cu and Ce-doped CoFe2O4 as oxygen carriers for chemical looping hydrogen generation Jie Gao, Ge Pu, Shuaihui Jia, Cong Yuan, Chenghua ZhangVersion of Record online:12 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7650📷The Cu and Ce co-doped CoFe2O4 oxygen carrier exhibited excellent H2 production capability during the methane chemical looping hydrogen generation process. The doping of Ce greatly improved the oxygen release and migration rate and ensured sufficient oxygen supply to the gas-solid reaction surface. The doping of Cu enhanced the reduction performance of the oxygen carrier and inhibited the catalytic decomposition of CH4.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Enhancement of hydrogen production using dynamic magnetic field through water electrolysis Purnami Purnami, Nurkholis Hamidi, Mega Nur Sasongko, Eko Siswanto, Denny Widhiyanuriyawan, Ishardita Pambudi Tama, Willy Satrio Nugroho, I Nyoman Gede WardanaVersion of Record online:12 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7638📷This study utilizes dynamic magnetic field (DMF) to increase hydrogen production in water electrolysis. DMF was produced by rotating plat-shaped magnets around the cathode. The rotating magnet magnetic field increases hydrogen production twofold due to magnetic field exposure forces dipole homogenization of water molecules. The exposure area of the magnetic field decreasing and Electrolysis efficiency lowered as the magnet RPM increasing. This happened due to the rotation of the magnets in high RPM cannot completely restore their magnetic field vector.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS The efficiency of M (M = Li, Na, or Cs) doped CdS nanomaterials in optoelectronic applications Madeha A. Awad, Mohamed Shaban, Mohamed RabiaVersion of Record online:11 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7640📷Na-CdS grass like structure was prepared and applied as optoelectronic device for detection the light under different intensities or different wavelengths. The photoresponsivity (R), detectivity (D), and external quantum efficiency (EQE) values for Na-CdS photodetector were 38 mA W−1, 1.5 × 1010 Jones, and 12%, respectively.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE REVIEW PAPERS How to increase the catalytic efficacy of platinum-based nanocatalysts for hydrogen generation from the hydrolysis of ammonia borane Saim ÖzkarVersion of Record online:11 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7616📷How to increase the catalytic efficacy of platinum nanocatalystsUsing colloidal nanoparticles is an efficient way of increasing the catalytic activity of platinum catalysts. Supporting the platinum nanoparticles on materials with a large surface area can increase their stability. Selecting suitable oxide support can increase the catalytic efficiency of platinum nanocatalysts. The reusability of platinum nanoparticles can be increased by using magnetic powder materials as support. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Sulfur-doped molybdenum phosphide as fast dis/charging anode for Li-ion and Na-ion batteries Ghulam Ali, Mohsin Ali Raza Anjum, Sheeraz Mehboob, Muhammad Akbar, Jae Sung Lee, Kyung Yoon ChungVersion of Record online:10 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7647📷S:MoP-7 electrode shows better cyclability in sodium-ion batteries.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Experimental study and optimization of excess lithium in cathodic active materials with Lix(Ni0.3Mn0.5Co0.2)O2 composition on Li-ion battery performance Hadi Bashirpour-bonabVersion of Record online:09 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7653Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Design of cobalt-iron complex sulfides grown on nickel foam modified by reduced graphene oxide as a highly effect bifunctional electrocatalyst for overall water splitting Kai Zhang, Pingping Jiang, Qian Gu, Yan Leng, Pingbo Zhang, Zhenhua Li, Yuchao LiVersion of Record online:09 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7639📷The manuscript entitled “Design of Cobalt-Iron Complex Sulfides Grown on Nickel Foam Modified by Reduced Graphene Oxide as a Highly Effect Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for Overall Water Splitting” was original and the authors of this manuscript include Kai Zhang, Pingping Jiang*, Qian Gu, Yan Leng, Pingbo Zhang, Zhenhua Li and Yuchao Li. The novelty of this manuscript rests with that the as-prepared novel Co0.50Fe0.50S-rGO@NF exhibited lower overpotentials for OER and HER together with excellent stability and durability in both of the alkaline and acid electrolytes. This work still shows excellent electrocatalytic performance in overall water splitting experiment.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Numerical investigation of graphene and 2D-MoS2 facilitated perovskite/silicon “p-i-n” structure for solar cell application Chandra Kamal Borah, Sanjeev KumarVersion of Record online:09 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7646📷1. Four novel solar cell structures based on graphene, 2D n-type MoS2, perovskite materials, and p-cSi have been proposed and investigated their performance numerically under AM 1.5 solar spectra.2. The best performance has been achieved in the "Graphene/n-MoS2/MAPbI3-XClx" solar cell structure with output efficiency in the range of 25%-27%.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Fusion estimation strategy based on dual adaptive Kalman filtering algorithm for the state of charge and state of health of hybrid electric vehicle Li-ion batteries Pu Ren, Shunli Wang, Xianpei Chen, Junhan Huang, Mingfang HeVersion of Record online:09 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7643Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Fabrication of semi-flexible carbon quantum dots-reinforced polypyrrole (PPy/CQDs) composite electrodes by hybrid electrospray deposition for high-performance energy storage device Elumalai Dhandapani, Prabhu Sengodan, Navaneethan Duraisamy, Rajendran RameshVersion of Record online:09 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7636📷CQDs reinforced PPy composite for semi-flexible energy storage application.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Parameter estimation of solar PV models with a new proposed war strategy optimization algorithm Tummala.S. L. V. Ayyarao, Polamarasetty P. KumarVersion of Record online:09 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7629📷This paper proposes a novel meta-heuristic optimization algorithm inspired by the ancient times war strategy for estimating the solar PV model parameters. The proposed War Strategy Optimization (WSO) is developed based on the army troop’s strategic movement during the war. Two objective functions are formulated and are tested on the benchmark test modelsAbstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Role of triethanolamine in forming Cu2ZnSnS4 nanoparticles during solvothermal processing for solar cell applications Yas Al-Hadeethi, Elmoiz Merghni Mkawi, Omar Al-Hartomy, Elena BekyarovaVersion of Record online:04 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7632📷Role of Triethanolamine in Forming Cu2ZnSnS4 Nanoparticles during Solvothermal Processing for Solar Cell Applications FE-SEM cross-sectional images of the CZTS thin film solar cell-based NPs prepared used a TEA concentration of 5 mg/mL with the SLG/Mo/CZTS/CdS/i-ZnO/AZO/Al structure J-V curves of the CZTS thin film photovoltage fabricated using different TEA concentrations (2, 3, 4, and 5 mg/mL) under AM1.5 illumination. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Design and thermodynamic analysis of a new multigenerational plant with modular high-temperature gas-cooled reactor Murat Koc, Yunus Emre Yuksel, Murat OzturkVersion of Record online:04 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7645Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Porous media flow field for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell: Depression of gas diffusion layer intrusion, deformation, and delamination Bo Zheng, Zhe Wang, Yun WangVersion of Record online:03 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7630📷Assembly pressure leads to GDL intrusion/deformation and the shear/tensile stresses at GDL/MPL interface. GDL intrusion may considerably reduce GFC space and deformation and lead to a large spatial variation in local porosity and permeability. Porous media GFCs can greatly mitigate GDL intrusion and porosity/permeability variation and MPL/GDL tensile/shear stress. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES In-situ expansion strategy towards hierarchical mesoporous carbon: Formation mechanism and application in supercapacitors Nannan Guo, Wanxia Luo, Doudou Zhou, Mengjiao Xu, Daping Qiu, Ang Gao, Rui Ma, Rui Sheng, Dianzeng Jia, Luxiang WangVersion of Record online:03 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7633📷An in-situ activation strategy towards hierarchical mesoporous carbon. The grain refinement, crystal rearrangement and in-situ expansion enable the formation of the unique porous structure. An excellent capacitance of 436 F g−1 can be achieved in a three-electrode system. A high energy density of 41.2 Wh kg−1 at 620 W kg−1 is obtained in ionic liquid electrolyte. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Prediction and optimization of the design decisions of liquid cooling systems of battery modules using artificial neural networks Emre Bulut, Emre İsa Albak, Gökhan Sevilgen, Ferruh ÖztürkVersion of Record online:03 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7637Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Electrospun conductive carbon nanofiber hosts for stable zinc metal anode Sang Ha Baek, Yoon Jin Cho, Jae Min Park, Peixun Xiong, Jeong Seok Yeon, Harpalsinh H. Rana, Jeong Hee Park, Gun Jang, Sang Joon Lee, Ho Seok ParkVersion of Record online:02 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7609📷When zinc was deposited on the electrospun carbon nanofibers fabricated by stabilization and carbonization after electrospinning, the actual current density was lowered due to the high surface area of CNF, and as the deposited zinc grew in the (002) direction, a uniform deposition was obtained.This result confirms that carbon nanofiber is a promising conductive substrate for zinc metal anode.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Interaction effect of process parameters and Pd-electrocatalyst in formic acid electro-oxidation for fuel cell applications: Implementing supervised machine learning algorithms SK Safdar Hossain, Syed Sadiq Ali, Sayeed Rushd, Bamidele Victor Ayodele, Chin Kui ChengVersion of Record online:02 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7602📷Effects of various parameters on formic acid electro-oxidation were model using machine learning algorithms. The performance of the machine learning algorithms was influenced by various kernel functions. The SVM, Ensemble Tree, and GPR models resulted in R2 of 0.82, 0.83, and 0.85, respectively. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Importance of spin-orbit coupling on photovoltaic properties of Pb-free vacancy ordered double perovskites halides X2TeY6 (X = Cs, Rb, and Y = I, Br, Cl): First-principles calculations Smahane Dahbi, Najim Tahiri, Omar El Bounagui, Hamid Ez-ZahraouyVersion of Record online:02 January 2022 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7631📷The inclusion of spin-orbit coupling is crucial for the correct characterization of the electronic properties of the X2TeY6 compound. Besides, the excellent absorption along the visible region, the suitable forbidden band, as well as the high thermodynamic stability make Cs2TeI6 as a new potential candidate compound for single-junction solar cells.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Research on decentralized operation scheduling strategy of integrated energy system based on energy blockchain Xiaoou LiuVersion of Record online:28 December 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7598Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Swarm intelligence-based energy management of electric vehicle charging station integrated with renewable energy sources Priyanka Ray, Chayan Bhattacharjee, Koteswara Raju DhenuvakondaVersion of Record online:28 December 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7601Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE EDITORIAL Free AccessGuest editorial for special issue on potential energy solutions Yusuf BicerVersion of Record online:28 December 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7619Full text PDF Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Macromolecular antioxidants for chemically durable polymer electrolyte fuel cell membranes Abdul Kodir, Sung-Hee Shin, Satbyul Park, Mutya Rahmah Arbi, Tae-Hyun Yang, Hyejin Lee, Dongwon Shin, Byungchan BaeVersion of Record online:28 December 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7607📷Macromolecular antioxidants are effective in increasing PFSA membrane's oxidative durability. The antioxidant did not decrease water uptake and proton conductivity of the membrane. It also works in OCV accelerated fuel cells test. Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Stable anode enabled by an embossed and punched structure for a high-rate performance Zn-ion hybrid capacitor Kihyuk Yun, Haenam Jang, Geon-Hyoung AnVersion of Record online:27 December 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7595📷We focus and investigate the decoration of an improved-quality graphene film with ultrafine MnO2 nanoparticles for use as a multifunctional current collector.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Numerical investigation of air cooling system for a densely packed battery to enhance the cooling performance through cell arrangement strategy Patcharin Saechan, Isares DhuchakallayaVersion of Record online:19 December 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7571Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Synthesis of carbon nanotubes/titanium dioxide and study of its effect on the optical, dielectric, and mechanical properties of polyvinyl alcohol/sodium alginate for energy storage devices Haifa Mohammed Alghamdi, Abdulwahab RajehVersion of Record online:17 December 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7578📷In this system, the solvent casting technique was used to prepare polymer nanocomposites from MWCNTs/TiO2 nanoparticles (as nanofiller) doped PVA/SA blend. The optical, ac conductivity, dielectric and mechanical properties of the nanocomposites films enhanced as compared to pure PVA/SA film. Thus, it was generally concluded that the polymer nanocomposite is better than the pure blend due to its superior dielectric constant, thermal, optical, and mechanical properties, which makes them useful in the manufacture of nanoelectronic devices of high energy storage.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Reactor design of methanol steam reforming by evolutionary computation and hydrogen production maximization by machine learning Wei-Hsin Chen, Zih-Yu Chen, Sheng-Yen Hsu, Young-Kwon Park, Joon Ching JuanVersion of Record online:14 December 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7543📷This research designs an methanol steam reforming reactor and employs the Nelder-Mead algorithm to find an equivalent steam tube radius. Furthermore, a three-step training and test of the database by the neural networks is adopted to evaluate the influence of the number of data sets and find the best combination of the parameters. The best combination poses the highest H2 yield of 2.905 mol∙(mol CH3OH)-1, and the error between the prediction and simulation is merely 0.206%.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Development of a waste-to-energy gasification system for sustainable communities Bogachan Gungor, Ibrahim DincerVersion of Record online:18 November 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7464📷In this novel study, major problems, which humanity has recently faced, are considered. These problems addressed in this paper include mismanagement of sewage sludge, nonrecyclables, and unfavorable plastics, greenhouse gas emissions emitted due to the use of fossil fuel-based resources, and global warming. A waste-to-energy system has been proposed to integrate renewable energy resources into integrated waste management systems to produce multiple useful outputs to create a circular economy and decrease waste loads of incinerators and landfills for sustainable communities.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Power quality statistical predictions based on differential, deep and probabilistic learning using off-grid and meteo data in 24-hour horizon Ladislav ZjavkaVersion of Record online:29 October 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7431Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Research on the influence of electrolytes on the low-temperature start-up performance of zinc-air battery for forklifts Qinguo Zhang, Zheming Tong, Shuiguang TongVersion of Record online:30 September 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7296Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Light-trapping and spectral modulation to increase the conversion efficiency of triple-junction GaAs solar cells using antireflective coating comprising a periodic array of cone-shaped TiO2 structures Wen-Jeng Ho, Jheng-Jie Liu, Xing-Yu Chen, Hung-Pin XiaoVersion of Record online:07 September 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7240📷This study sought to increase the conversion efficiency of 3J GaAS solar cells via spectral light-trapping through the application of a uniform TiO2 layer with an antireflective coating comprising a periodic array of cone-shaped TiO2 structures. The cone-shaped TiO2 structures (PS: 600 nm) improved the photovoltaic performance of triple-junction GaAS cells by 20.55% in JSC (from 9.73 to 11.73 mA/cm2) and 20.59% increase in η (from 20.98% to 25.30%), under AM1.5G illuminations at zero of incidence. The cell with cone-shaped TiO2 ARC structures also had a wider light source acceptance angle and delivered higher electrical output for a given duration.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE REVIEW PAPERS Probable thermoelectric materials for promising candidate of optoelectronics for Ba-based complex perovskite compounds Saadi Berri, Nadir BouarissaVersion of Record online:06 September 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7232Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Open AccessLarge scale synthesis of hexagonal boron nitride nanosheets and their use in thermally conductive polyethylene nanocomposites Mehamed Ali, Ahmed AbdalaVersion of Record online:14 August 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7149📷We report the large-scale synthesis of hBNNs via a ball milling (BM) with a yield of up to 60%. Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE)-hBNNs nanocomposites with improved thermal conductivity, thermal stability, and mechanical properties were fabricated. Moreover, the BM-induced hBNNs defects were eliminated by mixing hBNNs with LLDPE (4/1 mass ratio), further enhancing the nanocomposite's thermal conductivity, mechanical properties, and thermal stability.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE SHORT COMMUNICATIONS Open AccessEnhanced thermal conductivity of polyethylene nanocomposites with graphene, granulated graphene, graphene nanoplatelet, and their hybrids Chaudhry Usman, Abdelnasser Mabrouk, Ahmed AbdalaVersion of Record online:11 August 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7147📷Nanocomposites of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) with granulated graphene with enhanced thermal conductivity are fabricated via melt processing. At 40 wt. % loading, the nanocomposite's thermal conductivity (κc) reached 2.91 W/m.K, corresponding to ~1000% increase over LDPE due to the reduced polymer/filler's thermal interfacial resistance. Furthermore, binary and ternary hybrid fillers of granulated graphene with graphene, graphene nanoplatelets, and micrographite did not display any synergistic effect on κc.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Modeling and simulation of GaAsPN/GaP quantum dot structure for solar cell in intermediate band solar cell applications Abdelkader Aissat, Lynda Chenini, Said Nacer, Jean Perre VilcotVersion of Record online:01 August 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7114📷The Intermediate bands formed by quantum dots based on GaAs1-x-yPxNy/GaP materials have been modeled and simulated to improve solar cell efficiency. The incorporation of quantum dots in the solar cell structure makes it possible to absorb the maximum of incident photons. This allows the absorption of photons that have an energy lower than the bandgap energy.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE REVIEW PAPERS Artificial intelligence based prognostic maintenance of renewable energy systems: A review of techniques, challenges, and future research directions Yasir Saleem Afridi, Kashif Ahmad, Laiq HassanVersion of Record online:31 July 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7100📷In contrast to existing surveys, this paper provides an in-depth and detailed survey of the literature on prognostic maintenance of renewable energy systems, including Hydro, Wind, and Solar Power systems, with a particular focus on approaches, challenges (such as security, interpretability, and data-related issues), and future research directions.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES Fluoropolymer impregnated graphite foil as a bipolar plates of vanadium flow battery Pavel Loktionov, Natalia Kartashova, Dmitry Konev, Lilia Abunaeva, Anatoly Antipov, Eugeny Ruban, Alexander Terent'ev, Natalia Gvozdik, Maria Lyange, Andrey Usenko, Keith StevensonVersion of Record online:27 July 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7088Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions GarliChain: A privacy preserving system for smart grid consumers using blockchain Omaji Samuel, Nadeem JavaidVersion of Record online:15 July 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.7040Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Long-term planning scenarios of new nuclear capacity in Mexico using the IAEA INPRO methodology Emilio-Javier Yañez, Cecilia Martín-del-Campo, Juan-Luis François, Federico Puente-EspelVersion of Record online:11 May 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6847📷The International Atomic Energy Agency INPRO methodology was implemented for assessing long-term planning scenarios of new nuclear capacity in Mexico. The methodology covers, through key indicators, features involved in the nuclear fuel cycle and economic aspects to determine the best ones. Three scenarios were set-up and studied. The variables involved in the nuclear fuel cycle of each scenario were obtained and the best proposed alternative was quantitatively determined.​Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Inhibiting polysulfides with PDA/PEI-functionalized separators for stable lithium-sulfur batteries Cunbao Pei, Jingde Li, Zezhong Lv, Huanmin Wang, Wei Dong, Yongyi YaoVersion of Record online:15 April 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6773Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions RESEARCH ARTICLES Advanced machine learning tools based on energy management and economic performance analysis of a microgrid connected to the utility grid Mostafa Al-GabalawyVersion of Record online:14 April 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6764Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions SPECIAL ISSUE RESEARCH ARTICLES High-heat flux flow and heat transfer transitions in a supercritical loop: Numerical verification and correlation Dong Yang, Lin Chen, Jiaxiang Chen, Yongchang FengVersion of Record online:29 March 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6696📷High heat-flux long pipe flow is identified to have different heat transfer regimes. Based on the data in different regions of heat transfer transitions, new correlation has been proposed and compared with BP network estimation.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Synthesis of nickel boride and investigation of availability as an additive in the molten carbonate fuel cell anode material Erdi Başarır, Göksel Özkan, Gülay ÖzkanVersion of Record online:23 March 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6626📷The positive effect of nickel boride additive in the anode material for molten carbonate fuel cell was investigated.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions A solar simulator numerical modeling for heat absorption phenomenon research in a parabolic trough collector Łukasz Bartela, Bartosz Stanek, Daniel Węcel, Anna Skorek-OsikowskaVersion of Record online:01 March 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6585📷This article presents the results of solar simulator modeling for parabolic trough collectors testing. A new approach of lamp arrangement and assessing the solar simulator quality was presented. The evaluation index has been defined to determine the quality of the energy distribution. The results show that 22 reflectors, each with metal halide 400 We, are suitable for illuminating a 1×1 meter area. The influence of the simulator distance on the amount of energy reaching the absorber surface was also analyzed.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Open AccessOptimal design of electric vehicle charging stations for commercial premises Islam Safak Bayram, Michael Devetsikiotis, Raka JovanovicVersion of Record online:18 February 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6523Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Comparison of machine learning and deep learning algorithms for hourly global/diffuse solar radiation predictions Olusola Bamisile, Ariyo Oluwasanmi, Chukwuebuka Ejiyi, Nasser Yimen, Sandra Obiora, Qi HuangVersion of Record online:16 February 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6529Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Techno-economic assessment and optimization of a standalone residential hybrid energy system for sustainable energy utilization Deepak Kumar, Tavishi TewaryVersion of Record online:11 January 2021 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6389Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Dynamic characteristics of a shell and plate particle-SCO2 moving packed bed heat exchanger with various SCO2 channel configurations Jun-Ming Yin, Qiu-Yun Zheng, Xin-Rong ZhangVersion of Record online:15 December 2020 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6290Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Forced convection of Al2O3, Fe3O4, ND-Fe3O4, and (MWCNT-Fe3O4) mixtures in rectangular channels: Experimental and numerical results M. Ziad Saghir, Mohammad M. RahmanVersion of Record online:02 November 2020 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6145Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Exergetic performance assessment of magnesium oxide–water nanofluid in corrugated minichannel heat sinks: An experimental study Muhammad Usman Sajid, Hafiz Muhammad Ali, Yusuf BicerVersion of Record online:19 October 2020 https://doi.org/10.1002/er.6024📷In this study, water and MgO nanofluid are used as coolants in the corrugated minichannels, and the effects of Reynolds number, heating power, and nanoparticles concentration are investigated in detailed for effective cooling arrangements.Abstract Full text PDF References Request permissions Submit an Article Browse free sample issue Get content alerts Subscribe to this journal Related Title: New for 2019 📷More from this journal More Energy Journals To Our Authors Newsletter Special Issues LaTeX class file Related Titles https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/toc/1099114x/2021/0/0

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