Search Results (189)

The increasing share of renewable energy sources (RES) in modern power systems necessitates the development of efficient, large-scale energy storage technologies capable of mitigating generation variability. Liquid Air Energy Storage (LAES), particularly in its adiabatic form, has emerged as a promising candidate by leveraging thermal energy storage and high-pressure air liquefaction and regasification processes. Although LAES has been widely studied, the impact of ambient temperature on its performance remains insufficiently explored. This study addresses that gap by examining the thermodynamic response of an adiabatic LAES system under varying ambient air temperatures, ranging from 0 °C to 35 °C. A detailed mathematical model was developed and implemented in Aspen Hysys to simulate the system, incorporating dual refrigeration loops (methanol and propane), thermal oil intercooling, and multi-stage compression/expansion. Simulations were conducted for a reference charging power of 42.4 MW at 15 °C. The influence of external temperature was evaluated on key parameters including mass flow rate, unit energy consumption during liquefaction, energy recovery during expansion, and round-trip efficiency. Results indicate that ambient temperature has a marginal effect on overall LAES performance. Round-trip efficiency varied by only ±0.1% across the temperature spectrum, remaining around 58.3%. Mass flow rates and power output varied slightly, with changes in discharging power attributed to temperature-driven improvements in expansion process efficiency. These findings suggest that LAES installations can operate reliably across diverse climate zones with negligible performance loss, reinforcing their suitability for global deployment in grid-scale energy storage applications. Full article

Long-range, high-resolution distance measurement with high ambient-light tolerance has been achieved using a 720 × 488-resolution short-pulse indirect time-of-flight (SP-iToF) image sensor featuring six-tap, one-drain pixels fabricated by a front-side illumination (FSI) process. The sensor performs 30-phase demodulation through six-tap pixels in each subframe, combined with five range-shifted subframe (SF) readouts. The six-tap demodulation pixel, designed with a lateral drift-field pinned photodiode, demonstrates over 90% demodulation contrast for a 20 ns light-pulse width. High-speed column-parallel 12-bit cyclic ADCs enable all six-tap subframe signals to be read within 4.38 ms. This high-speed subframe readout, together with efficient exposure-time allocation across the five subframes, enables a depth-image frame rate of 10 fps. The multi-phase demodulation in SP-iToF measurements, operating with an extremely small duty ratio of 0.2%, effectively suppresses ambient-light charge accumulation and the associated shot noise in the pixel. As a result, distance measurements up to 100 m under 100 klux illumination are achieved, with depth noise maintained below 1%. Full article

This review explores the pervasive role of water in generating, storing, and mediating electric charge across natural and artificial systems. Far from being a passive medium, water actively participates in electrostatic and electrochemical processes through its intrinsic ionization, interfacial polarization, and charge separation mechanisms. The Maxwell–Wagner–Sillars (MWS) effect is presented as a unifying framework explaining charge accumulation at air–water, water–ice, and water–solid interfaces, forming dynamic “electric mosaics” across Earth’s environments. The authors integrate diverse phenomena—triboelectricity, hygroelectricity, hydrovoltaic effects, elastoelectricity, and electric-field-driven phase transitions—showing that ambient water continually shapes the planet’s electrical landscape. Electrostatic shielding by humid air and hydrated materials is described, as well as the spontaneous electrification of sliding or dripping water droplets, revealing new pathways for clean energy generation. In addition, the review highlights how electric fields and interfacial charges alter condensation, freezing, and chemical reactivity, underpinning discoveries such as microdroplet chemistry, “on-water” reactions, and spontaneous redox processes producing hydrogen and hydrogen peroxide. Altogether, the paper frames water as a universal electrochemical medium whose interfacial electric imprint influences atmospheric, geological, and biological phenomena while offering novel routes for sustainable technologies based on ambient charge dynamics and water-mediated electrification. Full article

The operating temperature of lithium batteries directly affects their charge–discharge performance. This study is based on the LF50K prismatic power battery. The battery’s thermal model and the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) control equation were established. After completing the model verification, a thermal management system with a bionic leaf vein flow channel was designed. The study focused on investigating the effects of varied flow passage configurations, inlet–outlet flow channel angles, flow channel widths, flow rates, leaf vein angles, and inlet–outlet positions on the cooling effect of the lithium battery module. The results show that, as the inlet–outlet angle and width of the bionic leaf vein fluid flow channel increase, the battery cooling effect deteriorates; the increase in the angle and flow channel width has an adverse impact on battery heat dissipation. The significant reduction in the battery’s maximum temperature observed with an elevated fluid flow rate underscores the positive contribution of flow rate to the cooling process. The effect of the leaf vein angle on the cooling of lithium batteries shows a fluctuating trend: when the angle rises from 30° to 45°, the battery’s peak temperature shows a slow upward tendency; conversely, with the angle further increasing from 45° to 80°, the maximum temperature shows a gradual downward tendency. Specifically, at an angle of 45°, Battery No. 5 hits a maximum temperature of 306.58 K (around 33.43 °C), with the maximum temperature difference also reaching 6.38 K. After optimizing the structural parameters, when operating under the maximum ambient temperature conditions in 2024, the maximum temperature of the battery module decreased by 7 K, and the temperature difference decreased by 5.47 K, enabling the battery to achieve optimal operating efficiency. This study lays a foundation for a further optimization of the thermal management system for lithium-ion batteries in subsequent research. Full article

ZSM-5 zeolites with varying aluminum content were subjected to steam treatments of different severities by adjusting the temperature, duration, and water vapor pressure. The steamed samples were characterized using a range of analytical techniques. A quantitative assessment of the aluminum species—namely, tetrahedrally coordinated framework Al, dislodged framework Al, non-framework pentacoordinated Al, and non-framework hexacoordinated Al—was achieved through a combination of EDX analysis on Cs-exchanged materials and quantitative ²⁷Al MAS NMR spectroscopy, including spectral simulation. Contrary to previous reports, the catalytic activity per framework Al site in unsteamed ZSM-5 increases with aluminum content at low Si/Al ratios, aligning with recently proposed medium effects. Notably, at the point of maximum activity enhancement due to steaming, equivalent amounts (1:1) of framework and dislodged framework Al—both in tetrahedral coordination—are observed. The maximum enhancement factor per framework Al site, for a given material and reaction, remains independent of the specific steaming conditions (temperature, time, and pressure). However, the degree of activity enhancement varies with the type of reaction: it is more pronounced for n-hexane cracking (α-test) than for m-xylene isomerization. This suggests that both catalyst modification and reaction characteristics contribute to the observed steam-induced activity enhancement. A synergistic interaction between Brønsted and Lewis acid sites appears to underpin these effects. One plausible mechanism involves the strengthening of Brønsted acidity in the presence of adjacent Lewis acid sites. This enhancement is expected to be more significant for n-hexane cracking, which demands higher acid strength compared to m-xylene isomerization. In cases of n-hexane cracking, the increased acid strength and the formation of olefins via reactions on Lewis acid sites may act cooperatively. Importantly, the dislodged framework Al species—tetrahedrally coordinated in the hydrated catalyst at ambient temperature and functioning as Lewis acid sites in the dehydrated zeolite under reaction conditions—are directly responsible for the observed enhancement in acid activity. The transformation of framework Al into dislodged framework Al species is reversible, as demonstrated by hydrothermal treatment of the steamed samples at 150–200 °C. Nonetheless, reinsertion of Al into the framework is not fully quantitative: a portion of the dislodged framework Al is irreversibly converted into non-framework penta- and hexacoordinated species during the hydrothermal process. Among these, non-framework pentacoordinate Al species may serve as counterions to balance the lattice charges associated with framework Al. Full article

This paper addresses the issue of abnormal fluctuations in brake pipe pressure causing variations in braking force, or even forced stops, in heavy-haul trains. A multi-parameter synchronous acquisition monitoring device has been designed to collect relevant operational parameters during train movement. Integrating train traction calculation methods, algorithmic reasoning is conducted to assess the impact of abnormal pipe pressure fluctuations on braking force. Utilising the derived computational approach, the effect of such pressure anomalies on train braking force is calculated. Train braking force is regulated through control of the train pipe pressure reduction. Both train pipe pressure and pressure reduction are managed by the locomotive via the equalising air chamber. Traditional detection methods focus on pressure reduction and air charging/discharging times, making it difficult to analyse fluctuation causes in-depth. This study installs pressure sensors on the locomotive brake’s equalising air chamber and the train pipe inspection port to collect pressure data. It simultaneously records parameters such as ambient temperature and atmospheric pressure. Utilising the monitoring data, it calculates the impact of pipe pressure fluctuations on train air braking force, thereby supporting improvements in braking system stability and operational safety. Full article

This study presents the design and implementation of a prototype dual-function photovoltaic window system that integrates flexible solar panels for dynamic shading and a compact lithium battery for local energy storage. The methodology involves developing an experimental setup where translucent, flexible photovoltaic panels are retrofitted onto a standard residential window. The system is connected to a charge controller and a small-capacity lithium-ion battery pack. Key performance metrics, including solar irradiance, power generation efficiency, reduction in thermal transmittance, and battery state of charge, are continuously monitored under varying real-world environmental conditions. The integrated panels can significantly reduce solar heat gain, thereby lowering indoor ambient temperature and reducing the building’s cooling load. Simultaneously, the system will generate sufficient electricity to be stored in the lithium battery, providing a self-contained power source for low-draw applications such as lighting or charging personal devices. This research highlights the viability of developing cost-effective, multi-functional building components that transform passive architectural elements into active energy-saving and power-generating systems in terms of green environment goals. Full article

Low-temperature superconductivity has been known since 1957 to be described by BCS theory for effective single-band metals controlled by the density of states at the Fermi level, very far from band edges, the electron–phonon coupling constant l, and the energy of the boson in the pairing interaction w₀, but BCS has failed to predict high-temperature superconductivity in different materials above about 23 K. High-temperature superconductivity above 35 K, since 1986, has been a matter of materials science, where manipulating the lattice complexity of high-temperature superconducting ceramic oxides (HTSCs) has driven materials scientists to grow new HTSC quantum materials up to 138 K in HgBa₂Ca₂Cu₃O₈ (Hg1223) at ambient pressure and near room temperature in pressurized hydrides. This perspective covers the major results of materials scientists over the last 39 years in terms of investigating the role of lattice inhomogeneity detected in these new quantum complex materials. We highlight the nanoscale heterogeneity in these complex materials and elucidate their special role played in the physics of HTSCs. Especially, it is highlighted that the geometry of lattice and charge complex heterogeneity at the nanoscale is essential and intrinsic in the mechanism of rising quantum coherence at high temperatures. Full article

The rapid adoption of electric vehicles (BEVs) has increased the need to understand how fast-charging strategies influence long-distance travel times under real-world conditions. While most manufacturers specify maximum charging power and standardized driving ranges, these figures often fail to reflect actual highway operation, particularly in adverse weather. This study addresses this gap by analyzing the fast-charging behaviour, net battery capacity and highway energy consumption of 62 EVs from different market segments. Charging power curves were obtained experimentally at high-power DC stations, with data recorded through both the charging infrastructure and the vehicles’ battery management systems. Tests were conducted, under optimal conditions, between 10% and 90% state of charge (SoC), with additional sessions performed under both cold and preconditioned battery conditions to show thermal effects on the batteries’ fast-charging capabilities. Real-world highway consumption values were applied to simulate 1000 km journeys at 120 km/h under cold (−10 °C, cabin heating) and mild (23 °C, no AC) weather scenarios. An optimization model was developed to minimize total trip time by adjusting the number and duration of charging stops, including a 5 min detour for each charging session. Results show that the optimal charging cutoff point consistently emerges around 59% SoC, with a typical deviation of 10, regardless of ambient temperature. Charging beyond 70% SoC is generally inefficient unless dictated by charging station availability. The optimal strategy involves increasing the number of shorter stops—typically every 2–3 h of driving—thereby reducing total trip. Full article

Understanding the degradation behavior of lithium-ion batteries under realistic application conditions is critical for the design and operation of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). This research presents a modular, cell-level simulation framework that integrates electrical, thermal, and aging models to evaluate system performance in representative utility and residential scenarios. The framework is implemented using Python and allows time-series simulations to be performed under different state of charge (SOC), depth of discharge (DOD), C-rate, and ambient temperature conditions. Simulation results reveal that high-SOC windows, deep cycling, and elevated temperatures significantly accelerate capacity fade, with distinct aging behavior observed between residential and utility profiles. In particular, frequency modulation and deep-cycle self-consumption use cases impose more severe aging stress compared to microgrid or medium-cycle conditions. The study provides interpretable degradation metrics and visualizations, enabling targeted aging analysis under different load conditions. The results highlight the importance of thermal effects and cell-level stress variability, offering insights for lifetime-aware BESS control strategies. This framework serves as a practical tool to support the aging-resilient design and operation of grid-connected storage systems. Full article

First-principles density-functional theory (PBE, Quantum ESPRESSO) was employed to quantify how Fe substitution modulates the structural, elastic, electronic, and optical behaviour of cubic fluorite Fe_xZr_1−xO₂ (x = 0.00–1.00). The fluorite FeO₂ end member was treated as a hypothetical ambient-pressure limit to trace trends across the solid solution (experimental FeO₂ being stabilized in the high-pressure pyrite phase). Mechanical stability was verified via the cubic Born criteria, and composition-dependent stiffness and anisotropy were assessed through Voigt–Reuss–Hill moduli, Pugh ratio, and elastic indices. A strong band-gap narrowing was found—from 3.41 eV (x = 0) to ≈0.02 eV (x = 0.50)—which was accompanied by a visible–NIR red-shift, large absorption (α ≈ 10⁵ cm⁻¹ at higher x), and enhanced refractive index and permittivity; metallic-like response was indicated at high Fe content. Spin-polarized calculations converged to zero total and absolute magnetization, indicating a non-magnetic ground state at 0 K within PBE. The effect of oxygen vacancies (V₀)—expected under Fe³⁺ charge compensation—was explicitly considered: V₀ is anticipated to influence lattice metrics, elastic moduli (B, G, G/B), and sub-gap optical activity, potentially modifying stability and optical figures of merit. Stoichiometric (formal Fe⁴⁺) predictions were distinguished from V₀-rich scenarios. Absolute band gaps may be underestimated at the PBE level. Full article

Electrochemical glycerol oxidation presents a sustainable and environmentally friendly pathway for formic acid production, addressing the significant carbon emissions and resource dependency associated with conventional industrial processes. However, the development of advanced electrocatalysts with high formic acid selectivity and durability remains challenging due to the polyhydroxy structure and carbon chain complexity of glycerol, which lead to intricate oxidation pathways and a wide variety of products. To tackle this issue, we report a AuCu-Ag/AgBr catalyst with a multiphase interface, referring to the integrated boundaries among AuCu, Ag, and AgBr phases that interact with the liquid electrolyte, for high-rate and high-efficiency glycerol oxidation. Comprehensive characterizations reveal that the multiphase interface may effectively modulate the adsorption configurations of glycerol molecules and enhance charge transfer efficiency. Under ambient conditions, glycerol electro-oxidation at 1.43 V for 8 h yielded a conversion of 38% and a formic acid selectivity of 81%, and recycling tests confirmed its high stability under prolonged electrolysis. This synergistic catalytic effect provides a kinetically favorable pathway for formic acid production, demonstrating the potential of AuCu-Ag/AgBr catalysts in advancing sustainable glycerol valorization. Full article

Inverted (p-i-n) CsPbI_xBr_3−x (x = 0~3) perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are of growing interest due to their excellent thermal stability and optoelectronic performance. However, they suffer from severe energy level mismatch and significant interfacial energy losses at the bottom hole transport layers (HTLs). Herein, we propose a strategy to simultaneously enhance the crystallinity of CsPbI_2.85Br_0.15 and facilitate hole extraction at the HTL/CsPbI_2.85Br_0.15 interface by incorporating semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) onto [2-(3,6-dimethoxy-9H-carbazol-9-yl)ethyl] phosphonic acid (MeO-2PACz) HTL. The unique electrical properties of SWCNTs enable the MeO-2PACz/SWCNT HTL to achieve high conductivity, optimal energy level alignment, and an adaptable surface. Consequently, the defect density is reduced, hole extraction is accelerated, and interfacial charge recombination is effectively suppressed. As a result, these synergistic benefits boost the power conversion efficiency (PCE) from 15.74% to 18.78%. Moreover, unencapsulated devices retained 92.35% of their initial PCE after 150 h of storage in ambient air and 89.03% after accelerated aging at 85 °C for 10 h. These findings highlight the strong potential of SWCNTs as an effective interlayer for inverted CsPbI_2.85Br_0.15 PSCs and provide a promising strategy for designing high-performance HTLs by integrating SWCNTs with self-assembled monolayers (SAMs). Full article

This paper introduces a novel Lateral Extraction Enhanced Desorption Electrospray Ionization (LEE-DESI) source. This source is specifically designed to tackle the crucial issue of electric field interference in dual-channel ambient ionization mass spectrometry (AIMS). By incorporating dual-channel spraying-based desorption and extraction into a 3D-printed chamber with optimized spatial parameters, the system effectively reduces cross-channel interference while boosting ionization efficiency. The desorption spray is responsible for desorbing analytes from untreated samples, and the extraction spray further ionizes more neutral droplets through charge transfer, which substantially enhances sensitivity. Compared with traditional DESI, the LEE-DESI source demonstrates improved detection limits, reproducibility, and operational simplicity, as validated using Rhodamine B, L-arginine, and Angiotensin I, as well as drug standards including methadone, ketamine, and fentanyl. This highlights its potential for high-throughput analysis of complex matrices in proteomics, metabolomics, and biomedical applications. Full article

Under normal conditions, the novel zinc blende beryllium oxide (zb BeO) exhibits in a metastable crystalline phase, which is less stable than its wurtzite counterpart. Ultrathin zb BeO epifilms have recently gained significant interest to create a wide range of advanced high-resolution, high-frequency, flexible, transparent, nano-electronic and nanophotonic modules. BeO-based ultraviolet photodetectors and biosensors are playing important roles in providing safety and efficiency to nuclear reactors for their optimum operations. In thermal management, BeO epifilms have also been used for many high-tech devices including medical equipment. Phonon characteristics of zb BeO at ambient and high-pressure P ≠ 0 GPa are required in the development of electronics that demand enhanced heat dissipation for improving heat sink performance to lower the operating temperature. Here, we have reported methodical simulations to comprehend P-dependent structural, phonon and thermodynamical properties by using a realistic rigid-ion model (RIM). Unlike zb ZnO, the study of the Grüneisen parameter γ(T) and thermal expansion coefficient α(T) in zb BeO has revealed atypical behavior. Possible reasons for such peculiar trends are attributed to the combined effect of the short bond length and strong localization of electron charge close to the small core size Be atom in BeO. Results of RIM calculations are compared/contrasted against the limited experimental and first-principle data. Full article