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Progress in Chemistry

Abbreviation (ISO4): Prog Chem      Editor in chief: Jincai ZHAO

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  • Review
    Yunpeng Fu, Wanglei Chen, Xin Zhou, Yang Wang, Jinglun Wang
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(6): 934-948. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC240816
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    Lithium metal batteries (LMBs) have attracted significant attention due to their remarkable energy density. Yet, challenges surrounding safety and cycling stability have existed as crucial factors impeding their practical application. The development of an efficient electrolyte, which stands as a vital component in LMBs, serves as a key strategy to tackle those issues. In this review, the fluorinated solvent for lithium metal batteries is summarized in detail for the follow three reasons: (1) because of the strong electron-withdrawing effect of fluorine atoms, the fluorination of electrolyte solvents can reduce the HOMO and LUMO energy level, facilitating the generation of a robust solid electrolyte interface layer enriched with LiF on the lithium metal anode's surface; (2) fluorination can alter the electrostatic potential distribution of electrolyte solvents, thereby modifying coordination sites and regulating solvation structures; (3) the fluorination of solvents can also enhance the temperature endurance and flame retardance of the electrolyte. According to the chemical structures, fluorinated carbonates, fluorinated ethers, fluorinated carboxylates, fluorinated siloxanes, and fluorinated nitriles are elucidated elaborately based on the degree of fluorination and position of fluorine substitution. The relationships between the chemical structures of fluorinated solvents and the solvation structure, interfacial compatibility, and cell performances are described systematically. This review summarizes and provides insights into the future development prospects on fluorinated solvents for lithium metal batteries.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Fluorinated carbonate based solvents

    2.1 Fluorinated cyclic carbonate

    2.2 Fluorinated linear carbonate

    3 Fluorinated ether based solvents

    3.1 Fluorinated cyclic ether

    3.2 Fluorinated linear ether

    3.3 Partial fluorinated ether

    4 Other fluorinated solvents

    5 Conclusion and outlook

  • Review
    Shan Yuanhang, Hu Jun, Wang Meng
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(9): 1342-1351. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250211

    Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) are crosslinked polymer networks that combine the anisotropy of liquid crystals with the entropic elasticity of elastomers. They exhibit reversible large deformations under external stimuli, making them a focal point in smart materials research. Among various forms, LCE fibers, characterized by their high aspect ratio and large specific surface area, demonstrate enhanced sensitivity, greater deformation capacity, and excellent reversibility, weavability, and programmability, significantly broadening their application potential. In recent years, advancements in manufacturing technologies have expanded the fabrication methods of LCE fibers from traditional pulling and templating techniques to advanced spinning technologies such as melt spinning, electrospinning, wet spinning, and emerging 3D/4D printing techniques. These innovations have not only provided more possibilities for structural design and performance optimization of LCE fibers but also promoted their widespread use in high-performance material applications. This article systematically reviews the molecular structure and diverse fabrication methods of LCE fibers, discusses their applications in artificial muscles, soft robotics, smart clothing, and wearable devices, and provides an outlook on the future development of LCE fibers.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Molecular structures of liquid crystal elastomer fiber

    3 Fabrication technology of liquid crystal elastomer fiber

    3.1 Pultrusion method

    3.2 Template method

    3.3 Printing method

    3.4 Spinning method

    3.5 Microfluidic method

    4 Application of liquid crystal elastomer fiber

    4.1 Artificial muscles

    4.2 Soft robots

    4.3 Intelligent textiles

    5 Conclusion and outlook

  • Review
    Zhiqiang Zhang, Haichao Li, Ying Long
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(6): 918-933. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC240803
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    Hypochlorous acid/hypochlorite (HOCl/ClO-) are important participants in various physiological and pathological processes in the organisms. Both contribute immune defense throughinflammatory responses, but their overproduction and generation at inappropriate sites will result in oxidative damage of cell membranes, DNA, and proteins. Therefore, in view of the important physiopathological significance of HOCl/ClO-, its specific identification and detection have been an important research topic for researchers. Fluorescence and fluorescent probe methods stand out among many traditional detection methods due to their many advantages. In this paper, some representative research works on HOCl/ClO- specific fluorescent probes for organic small molecules are reviewed from the first case to the present day, categorized according to the recognition mechanisms between fluorescent probes and HOCl/ClO-. The recognition mechanisms and biological applications of HOCl/ClO- specific fluorescent probes are highlighted, and the prospects for the chemical and biological development of HOCl/ClO- specific fluorescent probes are discussed.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Oxidation reaction mechanism

    2.1 Oxidation of phenol/aniline analogs

    2.2 Oxidation of oximes

    2.3 Oxidation of pyrroles

    2.4 Oxidation of dibenzoylhydrazines

    2.5 Sulphur/selenium ether/ester oxidation

    3 Electrophilic chlorination reaction mechanism

    4 HOCl-mediated cyclization mechanisms

    5 Cleavage reaction mechanism based on C=C/C=N bonds

    6 Deprotection mechanism based on dimethyl thiocarbamate

    6.1 Based on the BODIPY fluorophore

    6.2 Based on the coumarin fluorophore

    6.3 Based on the naphthalene fluorophore

    6.4 HBT derivatives as fluorophores

    6.5 Based on the resorufin fluorophore

    6.6 Based on the cyano fragment fluorophore

    6.7 Based on the hemicyanine xanthene and cyanine fluorophores

    7 Deprotection mechanisms based on oxathiolones/dithiolones

    8 Mechanism of desulfurization reactions based on C=S bonds

    9 Based on other reaction mechanisms

    10 Conclusion and outlook

  • Review
    Xiushuang Jiang, Junming Wang, Hongzhi Liu
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(5): 724-742. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC240612
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    With the improvement of living standard and heightened awareness of environmental protection,renewable and environmentally friendly cellulose materials have attracted much attention in the field of daytime radiative cooling due to their high mid-infrared emissivity and the advantages of tunability of hierarchical structure. In this review,the classification,advantages/disadvantages of radiative cooling materials,the principles of radiative cooling,and the factors influencing their performance are introduced. The classification,state of the art as well as radiative cooling properties of cellulose-based daytime radiative cooling materials are elaborated. The recent progress in the four main application areas including building thermal management,personal thermal management,photovoltaics and low-temperature storage/transportation are summarized. Finally,the existing challenges in the current research are discussed and the future development in this field is also envisaged.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Radiative cooling

    2.1 Principles

    2.2 Influencing factors

    3 Cellulose-based daytime radiative cooling materials and classification

    3.1 Natural cellulose-based materials

    3.2 Cellulose derivatives-based materials

    3.3 Bacterial cellulose-based materials

    4 Application fields

    4.1 Building thermal management

    4.2 Personal thermal management

    4.3 Photovoltaics

    4.4 Low-temperature storage/transportation

    5 Conclusion and outlook

  • Review
    Shuxian Zhang, Kang Jin
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(5): 649-669. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC240613
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    In recent decades,along with the improvement of peptide synthetic strategies,the development about bicyclic peptides have been accelerated vigorously,and as a result,more and more bicyclic peptide compounds have entered the clinical trial stage. Through high-throughput screening of peptide compound libraries,the efficiency of obtaining target structures has been greatly increased,further promoting the development of the bicyclic peptide field. Compared with linear and monocyclic peptides,bicyclic peptides have much larger structures and greater structural rigidity,which results in higher affinity and selectivity of the binding to their targets. The absence of terminally free amine and carboxyl groups can also increase the stability of bicyclic peptides against proteolytic enzymes significantly. In addition,the facility of bicyclic peptides to cross cell membranes contributes the improved bioavailability. With the sustainable development and wide application of synthetic technologies,more and more potential bicyclic peptides have been developed successively,laying the foundation for the researches of bicyclic peptide drugs. However,in terms of druggability,there are still many limitations in solubility,conformational stability and in vivo activity,which are urgently need to be solved by means of pharmaceutical preparation and chemically structural modification. This review mainly focuses on the chemical preparation strategies of bicyclic peptides and their applications in drug discovery in recent years.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Introduction of bicyclic peptides

    2.1 Structural characteristics

    2.2 Natural bicyclic peptide

    3 Synthesis of bicyclic peptides

    4 Construction of bicyclic peptide libraries

    4.1 Chemical construction of bicyclic peptide libraries

    4.2 Biological construction of bicyclic peptide libraries

    5 Applications of bicyclic peptides

    5.1 Bicyclic peptide coupling(targeted delivery)

    5.2 PPIs

    5.3 Enzyme inhibitors/agonists

    5.4 Receptor Inhibitors

    5.5 Antimicrobial bicyclic peptides

    5.6 Imaging and contrast

    6 Outlook and discussion

  • Review
    Xin Chen, Jingzhao Wang, Xiangming Cui, Mi Zhou, Jianan Wang, Wei Yan
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(5): 758-774. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC240713
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    Li-S batteries have great application prospects because of their extremely high capacity and energy density. However,the instability and insulation of polysulfides(LiPSs)seriously hinder their further application. In order to solve the problem of slow reaction kinetics in Li-S batteries,it is urgent to explore efficient catalysts to accelerate the sulfur redox. In the case,transition metals with unique and excellent catalytic properties are considered as potential catalysts for Li-S battery. However,differences in the structure and properties of transition metals will lead to different catalytic mechanisms. Therefore,this work divides five types of transition metals(ferrous metals,conventional non-ferrous metals,precious metals,rare refractory metals,and rare earth metals)based on metal characteristics. Then,the catalytic mechanisms of transition metal catalysts were analyzed,including adsorption,accelerating electron transfer,reducing activation energy and co-catalysis. Besides,the research progress of various metals used in Li-S batteries was reviewed,and the catalytic mechanisms of different types of metals were clarified. Four optimization strategies were proposed: nanostructured design,doping-modification,alloying and external cladding,in order to provide certain references for the design of Li-S battery catalysts.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Catalytic mechanism and functionality of transition metal catalysts

    2.1 Catalytic mechanism

    2.2 Functionality

    3 The application of transition metals in lithium sulfur batteries

    3.1 Ferrous metal

    3.2 Non-ferrous metal

    3.3 Noble metal

    3.4 Rare refractory metal

    3.5 Rare earth metal

    4 Challenges and optimization strategies of transition metal catalysts

    5 Conclusion and outlook

  • Review
    Zou Shuanglin, Xu Yingchun, Gui Tao, Tan Rong, Xiao Lingping, Sun Runcang
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(9): 1352-1360. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250305
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    In the era of heightened global environmental consciousness, the principle of sustainable development has become deeply ingrained in public awareness. However, conventional petroleum-based adhesives are plagued by issues of unsustainability, high energy consumption, and significant environmental pollution during their production and application. Consequently, the development of green, sustainable, and high-performance biomass-based adhesives has emerged as a critical research focus. Biomass-based adhesives continue to encounter significant challenges, including suboptimal water resistance, elevated production costs, and the necessity for enhanced environmental performance. Future research should focus on optimizing the modification process of biomass raw materials, reducing production costs, improving the comprehensive properties of adhesives, and promoting their large-scale industrial application. In-depth investigation into the correlation between the structure and properties of biomass is crucial for the development of environmentally friendly and cost-effective adhesives. This paper summarizes the classification, modification methods, and properties of biomass-based raw materials and provides a detailed prospect for their future development.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Modification strategies for the preparation of bio-based adhesives

    2.1 Physical modification

    2.2 Chemical modification

    2.3 Composite modification

    3 Adhesive production from biomass-based material

    3.1 Lignin

    3.2 Polysaccharides

    3.3 Proteins

    4 Conclusion and outlook

  • Review
    Shichen Xiao, Xinyue Zhang, Xudong Wang, Lei Wang
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(6): 868-881. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC240814
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    As a globally strategic resource, lithium resources are crucial for the development of new energy sources. Due to the similar physical and chemical properties of lithium and magnesium, lithium extraction from saline lakes with high Mg/Li ratios is a great challenge. Therefore, it is of great significance to reverse customize nanofiltration (NF) membranes with high performance according to targeted applications. This article discusses the separation mechanisms such as size exclusion, dehydration effect, Donnan effect, and dielectric exclusion, guiding composite film creation for excellent Li⁺/Mg²⁺ sieving from a theoretical direction. Besides, based on the above separation mechanisms, this paper first comprehensively summarizes existing models (non-equilibrium thermodynamic model, charge model, steric hindrance pore model, etc.) for evaluating composite film parameters, which effectively reduces the number of experiments for the preparation of high-performance NF film in the early stage. Finally, we discuss the importance of utilizing the synergy of principles and models to jointly guide the construction of NF membranes that can effectively separate Li⁺/Mg²⁺ and point out that in the future, the structural parameters of the customized NF membranes should be more precise, and the construction of the separation models should be more relevant to the real scenario, so as to better guide the synthesis of NF films with superior separation performance.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Exploration of separation mechanisms

    2.1 Size exclusion

    2.2 Dehydration effect

    2.3 Donnan effect

    2.4 Dielectric exclusion

    2.5 Compensatory effect

    2.6 Hydrophobic adsorption

    3 Exploration of separation models

    3.1 Non-equilibrium thermodynamics model

    3.2 Steric hindrance pore model

    3.3 Charge model

    3.4 Electrostatic and steric-hindrance model

    3.5 Donnan-steric pore model

    3.6 Donnan-steric pore model with dielectric exclusion

    3.7 Semi-empirical model

    4 Conclusion and outlook

  • Review
    Jiansong Liu, Guida Pan, Feng Zhang, Wei Gao, Juntao Tang, Guipeng Yu
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(5): 686-697. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC240705
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    In recent years,covalent organic frameworks(COFs)have emerged as focal points in the research of membrane materials. Distinguished by their distinctive porous structures and structural versatility,COFs offer a promising avenue for advancement in membrane applications compared to conventional polymeric materials. This article delves into diverse interfacial systems,systematically detailing the methodologies for fabricating high-performance COF membranes via interfacial polymerization. The mechanisms underlying membrane formation across various interfacial systems and the strategies for precisely controlling the membrane structure will be elucidated. Furthermore,the intricate relationship between the membrane structure and application performance will be summarized. The challenges and perspectives in this field will be highlighted in the last part of this review.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Gas/liquid interface polymerization

    2.1 Langmuir-Blodgett method

    2.2 Surfactant-mediated

    3 Liquid/liquid interface polymerization

    3.1 Regulation of the system

    3.2 Additive-mediated

    3.3 Optimizing synthetic conditions

    4 Liquid/solid interface polymerization

    5 Solid/gas interface polymerization

    6 Applications of COF membrane

    6.1 Water resource treatment

    6.2 Gas separation and storage

    6.3 Membrane catalysis

    6.4 Electric device

    7 Conclusion and outlook

  • Review
    Keqi Zhang, Zongying Fu, Shenjie Han, Yun Lu
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(6): 903-917. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC240715

    In order to promote the comprehensive green transformation of economic and social development, the standardization of green energy-saving materials has concurrently fostered the emergence of novel materials. Confronted with the dual crisis of energy scarcity and environmental pollution, aerogels have garnered significant research interest because of their exceptional physicochemical properties, such as low thermal conductivity, high strength, low density and high specific surface area. Biomass-based natural wood and its derived nanocellulose, as renewable, biodegradable, and surface chemistry-tunable eco-friendly materials, have attracted widespread attention. This article first reviews the evolution and classification of woody aerogel, then discusses the preparation methods, structural characteristics, and performance advantages of woody aerogels. Subsequently, it provides an overview of the applications of woody aerogels in energy-efficient construction, environmental purification, and energy storage. Finally, it summarizes and analyzes the current research status and the problems faced by woody aerogels, and looks forward to the future development of this field.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Research progress of woody aerogel

    2.1 Overview of woody aerogel

    2.2 Preparation method of woody aerogel

    2.3 Structure and properties of woody aerogel

    3 Application of woody aerogel

    3.1 Building energy efficiency field

    3.2 Environmental purification field

    3.3 Energy storage field

    4 Conclusion and outlook

  • Review
    Yinyan Guan, Xiaorui Hao, Rui Xu, Hongfei Li, Yuhan Wu, Jiyan Liang
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(5): 775-787. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC240610
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    Zinc-iodine batteries have attracted widespread attention as a novel green,low-cost,and highly safe electrochemical energy storage technology. Its basic principle is to use the electrochemical reaction between zinc and iodine to store and release energy. However,the low electronic conductivity,shuttle effect,and high solubility of iodine limit the practical application of zinc-iodine batteries. This work provides a systematic review of the research progress on carbon materials used in the cathode of zinc-iodine batteries,with a focus on several commonly used carbon materials,such as carbon nanotubes,graphene,activated carbon,biomass-derived carbon,and other porous carbon materials. Owing to their excellent conductivity,high specific surface area,and good chemical stability,these carbon materials can not only effectively adsorb and immobilize iodine molecules,preventing iodine loss and the shuttle effect,but also promote iodine redox reactions by regulating the pore structure and surface chemical properties,thereby improving the specific capacity and cycling stability of the battery. Additionally,we put forward the challenges and issues faced by carbon materials in the practical application of zinc-iodine batteries,including how to further enhance iodine adsorption capability and improve the structural stability of the electrode. Accordingly,several potential future research directions are proposed with a view to further improving the electrochemical performance and reducing the manufacturing cost,thus laying the foundation for advancing the development and application of this emerging battery technology.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    1.1 Research background and significance of zinc-iodine batteries

    1.2 The importance of carbon materials in zinc-iodine batteries

    2 Overview of zinc-iodine batteries

    2.1 Reaction mechanism of zinc-iodine batteries

    2.2 Advantages and problems of zinc-iodine batteries

    3 The application of carbon materials in the cathode of zinc-iodine batteries

    3.1 Carbon nanotube-based cathodes

    3.2 Graphene-based cathodes

    3.3 Activated carbon-based cathodes

    3.4 Biomass-derived carbon-based cathodes

    3.5 Other porous carbon material-based cathodes

    4 Conclusions and outlook

  • Review
    Yifan Tang, Jutang Hu, Qianying Song, Guichao Kuang, Libao Chen
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(6): 858-867. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC240725
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    All-solid-state batteries have the characteristics of high energy density, long cycle lifeand high safety, which is the development direction of the next generation of electrochemical energy storage. Solid-state electrolytes are the core components of all-solid-state batteries, and sulfide electrolytes have attracted extensive attention due to their advantages of high ionic conductivity and good mechanical ductility. As one of the most studied sulfide electrolytes in recent years, lithium-phosphorus-sulfur-chloride sulfide (LPSC) has high ionic conductivity and relatively low cost, but its practical application is limited by shortcomings such as poor stability and poor compatibility of positive and negative electrode materials. The composite solid-state electrolyte has good electrochemical and mechanical properties, and the composite solid-state electrolyte is prepared by modifying the LPSC with polymers, aiming to improve the interfacial compatibility and electrochemical stability of the LPSC. In this paper, the basic composition, recombination mode, modification strategy and ion transport mechanism of LPSC composite solid electrolyte are reviewed, and the future research direction and application prospect of LPSC composite electrolyte are prospected.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Ion transport mechanism in LPSC composite solid electrolyte

    3 Classification of LPSC composite solid electrolytes

    3.1 LPSC-CSSE based on polymers

    3.2 LPSC-CSSE based on sulfides

    4 Conclusion and outlook

  • Review
    Guang Yang, Demei Yu
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(4): 536-550. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC241001

    With the advancement of technology,flexible pressure sensors have been widely utilized in wearable device fields such as medical monitoring and motion monitoring,primarily due to their thinness,lightness,flexibility,good ductility,as well as their faster response speed and higher sensitivity compared to traditional rigid sensors. When subjected to external forces,the elastic elements within these sensors undergo deformation,converting mechanical signals into electrical signals. Consequently,the choice of elastic elements significantly impacts the overall performance of flexible pressure sensors. Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is extensively used as a flexible substrate in sensors because of its stable chemical properties,good thermal stability,low preparation cost,and excellent biocompatibility. By collecting relevant information,this paper reviews the sensing mechanisms of PDMS-based flexible pressure sensors,introduces preparation techniques to improve the properties of PDMS materials,including the recently popular methods of introducing porous structures and constructing surface architectures,and discusses the applications of PDMS-based flexible pressure sensors in medical monitoring,electronic skin,and other fields. Finally,the challenges faced by PDMS-based flexible sensors and their future opportunities are prospected.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Flexible pressure sensor

    3 Fabrication technology of flexible sensor with improved performance

    3.1 Pore structure

    3.2 Surface micro-nano structures

    4 Application of flexible pressure sensor based on PDMS

    4.1 Health monitoring

    4.2 Electronic skin

    5 Conclusion and outlook

  • Review
    Mingxia Feng, Jintian Qian, Dawu Lv, Wenfeng Shen, Weijie Song, Ruiqin Tan
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(5): 743-757. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC240704
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    Human exhaled air has a close relationship with diseases,among which ammonia becomes a respiratory marker for diseases such as kidney disease. Traditional exhaled gas detection methods are mainly detected by gas chromatography,but the instrument is bulky and complex in operation. Emerging ammonia sensors,however,are garnering significant attention due to their portability,ease of integration,miniaturization,low cost,and simplicity of operation. This review systematically describes the working mechanism of ammonia gas sensors,sensor types,and common ammonia sensing materials. At the same time,it introduces the advantages of sensor array electronic nose technology over a single sensor,and puts forward the application research of ammonia sensors and electronic noses in diseases,aiming at the existing problems and prospects of ammonia gas sensors.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Principe of semiconductor ammonia sensor

    2.1 Quartz crystal microbalance ammonia sensor

    2.2 Electrochemical ammonia sensor

    2.3 Colorimetric ammonia sensor

    2.4 Resistive ammonia sensor

    3 Resistive ammonia sensing gas sensitive material

    3.1 Metallic oxide

    3.2 Conducting polymer

    3.3 Carbon material

    3.4 2D material

    4 E-nose based on ammonia sensing

    4.1 Eigenvalue extraction

    4.2 Classical pattern recognition algorithm

    4.3 Neural network

    5 Applications of ammonia sensors in different diseases

    5.1 Application of ammonia sensor in chronic kidney disease

    5.2 Application of ammonia sensor in helicobacter pylori positive patients

    6 Conclusion and outlook

  • Review
    Shanshan Zeng, Tongbo Wang, Lisi Liang, Xu Zhang, Haijun Yu
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(6): 827-842. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC240807
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    Because of the advantages of aluminum including high volumetric/gravimetric capacity, high safety, and low cost, aluminum batteries have become one of the most attractive new electrochemical energy storage devices. High-performance battery materials are the bottleneck issues impeding the development of aluminum batteries. Compared with various cathode materials, the design of aluminum anode is a common key technology for aluminum batteries. However, the current aluminum anodes still suffer from diverse problems such as surface passivation, local corrosion, and dendrite growth, which greatly influence the electrochemical performance of aluminum batteries. In this review paper, targeting on these problems, we first analyze the key factors governing the electrochemical performance of anode from the viewpoint of reaction mechanisms. Then, we summarize recent important progress about the aluminum anode design, analyze the critical strategies for optimizing aluminum anodes, and discuss their optimization effect and mechanism. Finally, perspectives on the crucial challenges and development trends of aluminum anodes are presented, with a hope to shed light on the design of high-performance aluminum batteries.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Main types of aluminum batteries

    2.1 Aqueous aluminum batteries

    2.2 Nonaqueous aluminum batteries

    3 The issues and mechanisms of aluminum metal anodes

    3.1 Surface passivation

    3.2 Corrosion

    3.3 Dendrite growth

    4 Optimization strategy for performance design of aluminum anode

    4.1 Aluminum alloy anode

    4.2 Surface modification of aluminum anode

    4.3 In situ SEI regulation

    4.4 3D structural design

    4.5 Aluminum based composite material construction

    4.6 Aluminum free anode

    5 Conclusion and outlook

  • Review
    Siyu Li, Yifan Liu, Yuancai Lv, Xiaoxia Ye, Chunxiang Lin, Minghua Liu
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(5): 670-685. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC240616

    Cellulose nanocrystals(CNCs)are rod-like nanomaterials with high crystallinity obtained from natural cellulose. CNCs suspensions can form iridescent films with chiral nematic structure through evaporation-induced self-assembly(EISA),showing unique optical properties and presenting specific structural colors,which has great application potential in the fields of anti-counterfeiting,sensing,optoelectronics and so on. Due to the abundant,green and renewable feedstock,CNCs has become the first choice of the new chiral materials. In this paper,the formation mechanism,structure and optical properties of CNCs chiral liquid crystals are introduced,the preparation methods of CNCs chiral liquid crystals which are typical at home and abroad in recent years are reviewed,and the structural colors and regulation methods of CNCs chiral liquid crystals are discussed. The application progress of CNCs chiral liquid crystals in the fields of anti-counterfeiting materials,template materials,other functional materials and biomedicine is also summarized. Finally,the challenges and research prospects of CNCs chiral liquid crystals are addressed.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Formation mechanism and structural characteristics of chiral nematic liquid crystals of cellulose nanocrystals

    3 Methods for preparing chiral nematic liquid crystals of cellulose nanocrystals

    3.1 Sulfuric acid hydrolysis process

    3.2 TEMPO oxidation process

    3.3 Other oxidation methods

    3.4 Organic acid hydrolysis method

    4 Structural regulation of chiral nematic liquid crystals in cellulose nanocrystals

    4.1 Influence of length-diameter ratio of CNCs

    4.2 The influence of external conditions

    5 Application of chiral nematic liquid crystals in cellulose nanocrystals

    5.1 Anti-counterfeiting material

    5.2 Formwork material

    5.3 Other functional materials

    5.4 Biomedicine

    6 Conclusion and outlook

  • Review
    Handan Cui, Wen Li, Shuai Gu, Juntao Tang, Guipeng Yu
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(7): 967-977. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC240721
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    The covalent organic framework colloid (COF Colloids) embodies not only the inherent traits of a controllable COF structure, adjustable pore size, and ordered crystalline structure, but also capitalizes on the versatility inherent in colloids for dispersion, molding, functionalization and assembly. In recent years, COF colloids have garnered substantial interest among researchers owing to their exceptional solution processability and stability. This paper delves into the formation mechanism of COF colloids, categorizing their preparation methods into two classifications: top-down and bottom-up. It also provides a comparative analysis of the advantages and limitations associated with these two synthesis strategies. Moreover, this review summarize the diverse applications of COF colloids in photocatalysis, devices, gas separation, and biomedicine, while also addressing the challenges by COF colloids and envisioning their future developmental trajectory.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Synthesis strategy

    2.1 Top-down synthesis

    2.2 Bottom-up synthesis

    3 Application

    3.1 Photocatalysis

    3.2 Device

    3.3 Adsorption and separation

    3.4 Biomedical science

    4 Conclusion and outlook

  • Review
    Liu Qianxin, Xia Kaisheng, Yang Zhen, Meng Yi, Tian Yunfeng, Chi Bo, Wu Yier, Liu Chenglin
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(9): 1361-1372. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC20250209

    Brine resources are widely present in salt lakes, groundwater, and seawater. They are rich in many valuable elements such as lithium, potassium, magnesium, and boron, and thus possess significant economic value. With the rapid development of the new energy industry, especially the sharp increase in the demand for lithium resources, the comprehensive utilization of brine resources has become crucial for ensuring the sustainable supply of resources and promoting green development. However, traditional brine treatment methods, such as evaporation crystallization and chemical precipitation, have problems like high energy consumption, low separation precision, and environmental pollution. There is an urgent need for more efficient and environmentally friendly technical means. As a separation technology based on ion exchange membranes and the action of an electric field, electrodialysis technology has remarkable advantages such as high efficiency, energy conservation, and environmental friendliness, and has gradually become an important technology in brine resource treatment. This article introduces the principles of electrodialysis technology, including the working mechanisms of anion and cation membranes and bipolar membranes. By combining application cases, it explores the research progress of electrodialysis technology in the comprehensive utilization of brine resources. In terms of separation and extraction, this technology has a remarkable effect on the separation and extraction of elements such as lithium, boron, and potassium. It has outstanding advantages, especially in the extraction of lithium from brine with a high magnesium - to - lithium ratio. In the concentration process, it can achieve brine concentration with low energy consumption. In product processing, it can improve product purity and optimize the production process. Although electrodialysis technology has achieved remarkable results in the laboratory and pilot - scale stages, it still faces challenges such as the durability of membrane materials and equipment costs in large - scale industrial applications. In the future, electrodialysis technology is expected to develop synergistically with other technologies. Differentiated technical solutions will be developed according to the characteristics of different brine resources to achieve the full - component utilization of brine resources and promote the sustainable development of related industries.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    1.1 Brine resources

    1.2 Comprehensive utilization of brine

    2 Principles and application of electrodialysis

    2.1 Principle of anion and cation membranes

    2.2 Principle of bipolar membranes

    2.3 Application case

    3 Advances in the research and application of electrodialysis technology

    3.1 Separation and extraction

    3.2 Concentration

    3.3 Product processing

    4 Summary and outlook

  • Review
    Chaoyang Wu, Chao Wang, Feifan Chen, Xinhe Dong, Haiying Zheng
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(4): 575-592. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC240618
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    Two-dimensional (2D) perovskite materials have been receiving considerable attention owing to their high stability. Despite this,there is still significant potential for improving their power conversion efficiency. Designing effective spacer cations is one of the crucial methods to improve the photoelectric performance of 2D perovskite solar cells. Among the various strategies,halogen substitution has emerged as a particularly effective approach,which can fine-tune the stability and optical properties of the perovskite crystal structure,leading to notable improvements in photoelectric conversion efficiency as well as long-term stability. In recent years,there has been significant and notable progress of two-dimensional (2D) perovskites based on various halogen-substituted spacer cations in the preparation of high-performance perovskite solar cells. This paper initially provides a comprehensive overview of the development status of 2D perovskite materials and devices that employ different spacer cations. Following this,the focus shifts to an in-depth review of the advancements made in the fabrication of 2D perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and the surface modification of three-dimensional (3D) perovskites,specifically emphasizing the role of spacer cations that have been singly or multiply substituted with halogens such as fluorine,chlorine,and bromine. Finally,we present a concise discussion on the current challenges faced in this field and offer insights into the potential future directions for further research and development.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 2D perovskite materials and devices with different spacer cations

    3 Characteristics of halogen-substituted spacer cation-based 2D perovskites and their applications in photovoltaic devices

    3.1 Research on halogen-substituted spacer cation-based 2D perovskites and photovoltaic devices

    3.2 Research on halogen-substituted 2D perovskite surface modification of 3D perovskites

    4 Conclusion and future perspectives on halogen-substituted 2D perovskites

  • Review
    Ting Ma, Chunyu Deng, Jie Li, Zhouyu Wang, Qian Zhou, Xiaoqi Yu
    Prog Chem. 2025, 37(4): 519-535. https://doi.org/10.7536/PC240815

    ONOO-,produced by the diffusion-controlled reaction of nitric oxide and superoxide radicals,is a strong oxidizing and nitrating agent that causes damage to DNA,proteins,and other biomolecules in cells. Since ONOO- is characterized by its short lifetime,high reactivity,and low concentration under physiological conditions,and the pathophysiological roles it plays in biological systems are not yet fully understood,it is of great significance to develop highly sensitive and selective detection technologies to achieve real-time dynamic monitoring of ONOO-. In this paper,we review the research progress of ONOO- fluorescent probes in disease-related processes in the recent 5 years,revealing the potential role of ONOO- in various diseases,such as inflammation,tumors,liver injury,and brain diseases. Finally,the bottlenecks in the development of ONOO- probes and future trends are discussed,which will promote the application of ONOO- probes in chemistry,biology,and pharmacology.

    Contents

    1 Introduction

    2 Design strategies of ONOO- fluorescent probe

    3 Detection and imaging of ONOO- by fluorescent probes in disease-related processes

    3.1 Detection and imaging of ONOO- in inflammation

    3.2 Detection and imaging of ONOO- in tumors

    3.3 Detection and imaging of ONOO- in liver injuries

    3.4 Detection and imaging of ONOO- in brain diseases

    3.5 Detection and imaging of ONOO- in other disease models

    4 Conclusion and outlook

ISSN 1005-281X (Print)
Started from 1989

Published by: Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and the National Natural Science Foundation of China (NSFC)