Uniform single-crystal mesoporous metal-organic frameworks.

The synthesis of mesoporous metal-organic frameworks (meso-MOFs) is desirable as these materials can be used in various applications. However, owing to the imbalance in structural tension at the micro-scale (MOF crystallization) and the meso-scales (assembly of micelles with MOF subunits), the formation of single-crystal meso-MOFs is challenging. Here we report the preparation of uniform single-crystal meso-MOF nanoparticles with ordered mesopore channels in microporous frameworks with definite arrangements, through a cooperative assembly method co-mediated by strong and weak acids.

Barriers and Carriers for Transition Metal Homeostasis in Plants.

Transition metals are a type of metal with high chemical activity and play critical roles in plant growth and development, reproduction and environmental adaptation, as well as for human health. However, the acquisition, transportation and storage of these metals always pose specific challenges due to their nature of high reactivity and poor solubility. In addition, distinct yet interconnected apoplastic and symplastic diffusion barriers impede their movement throughout the plants.

Work function-activated proton intercalation chemistry assists ultra-stable aqueous zinc ion batteries.

Manganese oxide (MnO) cathodes with a Zn/H co-intercalation mixing mechanism have exhibited great potential for aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) owing to their high energy density and optimal electrolyte suitability. However, the strong electrostatic interactions and slow kinetics between the high charge density zinc ions and the fixed lattice in conventional cathodes have hindered the development of AZIBs. Hence, selecting H with a smaller ionic radius and reduced electrostatic repulsion as carriers was a feasible strategy.