LiangMin Yu

The three-layer core–shell–shell γ-Fe2O3–SiO2–poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) nanocomposite has been successfully synthesized by a facile chemical process followed by a detailed investigation of morphology, composition, electromagnetic, and microwave absorption properties. The electrical conductivity of γ-Fe2O3–SiO2–PEDOT nanocomposites was as high as 3.34 S cm−1, and the saturation magnetization was in the range of 1–7 emu g−1. The minimum reflection loss reached −27.5 dB at 13.8 GHz with a matching layer thickness of 2.0 mm and an effective absorption bandwidth (< −10 dB) of about 4.1 GHz (12.0–16.1 GHz). The excellent microwave absorbing performance of this nanocomposite is due to proper impedance matching and the synergistic interaction of dielectric loss, the magnetic loss, and core–shell microstructure. Moreover, the electromagnetic and microwave absorbing properties of γ-Fe2O3–SiO2–PEDOT nanocomposites can be regulated by changing the dosage of functionalized γ-Fe2O3–SiO2.

Hydrophobic polyaniline/modified SiO2 coatings for anticorrosion protection

Co-reporter:Shuanger Shi, Zhiming Zhang, Liangmin Yu

Synthetic Metals 2017 Volume 233(Volume 233) pp:

Publication Date(Web):1 November 2017

DOI:10.1016/j.synthmet.2017.10.002

•The modified SiO2 using a grafting process can effectively filled the gaps of the electrospun PANI coating.•The corrosion protection efficiency of electrospun PANI/modified SiO2 coatings increase with the hydrophobicity of modified SiO2.•Especially, the PANI/SiO2-DTMS coatings with a self-repairing function still show an impressive anticorrosion efficiency after 71 days immersion.In this work, hydrophobic polyaniline (PANI)/modified SiO2 composite coatings were prepared by drop-casting modified silica onto electrospun PANI coatings. The PANI/modified SiO2 composite coatings showed excellent corrosion protection properties. The superior protection property of the PANI/modified SiO2 coatings could be ascribed to the synergistic effect of three factors as follows: the electrochemical activity of PANI, the efficient filling of modified SiO2 nanoparticles into the voids of the electrospun PANI coating, and the high hydrophobicity of the hybrid PANI/modified SiO2 coatings. Specifically, the results indicate that PANI/modified SiO2 by the dodecyltrimethoxysilane (PANI/SiO2-DTMS) (CA = 95°) coating has a self-repairing function and shows an anticorrosion efficiency of 99.99% for Q235 carbon steel, which was maintained at 99.99% after 71 days of immersion in 0.1 M H2SO4.

PANI-PMMA as cathodic electrode material and its application in cathodic polarization antifouling

Co-reporter:Meng-Yang Jia, Zhi-Ming Zhang, Liang-Min Yu, Jia Wang

Electrochemistry Communications 2017 Volume 84(Volume 84) pp:

Publication Date(Web):1 November 2017

DOI:10.1016/j.elecom.2017.09.021

•The potential of PANI/PMMA as a cathode material in alkalescent NaCl is verified.•The electrochemical antifouling effects applied on PANI/PMMA coating is outstanding when added the voltage of − 0.6 V.•This work suggests the potential of electrochemical antifouling for application on insulated surfaces in industrial settings.Cathodic voltage applied to metal substrata has been proven to exhibit useful antifouling properties due to the generation of H2O2, where the metal substratum is used as a cathode in the process. However, most metals immersed in a marine environment are protected by insulating (anticorrosive) coatings, restricting the cathodic polarization that can be applied to the metal. In this work, polyaniline-polymethyl methacrylate was found to have good stability and low background current density, as measured by linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), chronoamperometry (CA) and cyclic voltammetry (CV), suggesting potential for use of PANI-PMMA as a cathode material. The antifouling effects of the PANI-PMMA coating on 24-h-old Escherichia coli bacteria (E. coli) were measured under different cathodic potentials and different polarization times; the outstanding antifouling effect was verified by fluorescence microscopy.Download high-res image (172KB)Download full-size image

Hydrophobic polystyrene/electro-spun polyaniline coatings for corrosion protection

Co-reporter:Yunyan Zhao, Zhiming Zhang, Liangmin Yu, Tao Jiang

Synthetic Metals 2017 Volume 234(Volume 234) pp:

Publication Date(Web):1 December 2017

DOI:10.1016/j.synthmet.2017.11.005

•Hydrophobic polystyrene/electro-spun polyaniline coatings were prepared through a superposition combination method.•Electrochemical measurements showed that the bi-layer coating system has the outstanding corrosion protection property.•The coating could give full play to the shielding performance of topcoat and anodic protection performance of primer.Herein, bi-layer coatings were prepared through a superposition combination method, which contains polystyrene (PS) topcoat and polyaniline (PANI)/polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) primer. PS topcoats prepared by different preparation methods show diverse microstructures, hydrophobicity, anti-medium permeability and corrosion resistance. In order to study the anti-corrosion mechanism of (PANI/PMMA primer − PS topcoat) coating system, Q235 carbon steel covered with bi-layer coatings were immersed in 3% NaCl solution for 720 h. And the anti-corrosion properties of samples were studied by open circuit potential, visual observations, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and Tafel polarization test. Electrochemical techniques confirm that collocation of PS topcoat and PANI/PMMA primer could give full play to the shielding performance of topcoat and anodic protection performance of PANI/PMMA primer. Observed results show (PANI/PMMA primer − PS topcoat) coating system prepared by spray method has the best anti-medium permeability and outstanding corrosion protection property, which is attributed to the special microstructure.

Cylindrical dye-sensitized solar cells with high efficiency and stability over time and incident angle

Co-reporter:Qunwei Tang, Lei Zhang, Benlin He, Liangmin Yu and Peizhi Yang

Chemical Communications 2016 vol. 52(Issue 17) pp:3528-3531

Publication Date(Web):22 Jan 2016

DOI:10.1039/C5CC10105K

We present here the realization of cylindrical dye-sensitized solar cells composed of Ti wire supported TiO2 nanotube anodes and transparent metal selenide counter electrodes. The optimized device yields a high efficiency of 6.63%, good stability over time, and identical efficiency output at arbitrary incident angles.

Cost-effective platinum alloy counter electrodes for liquid-junction dye-sensitized solar cells

Co-reporter:Yanjuan Li, Qunwei Tang, Liangmin Yu, Xuefeng Yan, Lei Dong

Journal of Power Sources 2016 Volume 305() pp:217-224

Publication Date(Web):15 February 2016

DOI:10.1016/j.jpowsour.2015.11.063

•PtxM100−x (M = Ni, Co, Fe) alloy CEs are synthesized by a facile method.•These alloys CEs with ultra low Pt doages significantly reduce the cost.•The Pt0.28M99.72 alloy CE shows super-catalytic behavior toward −I3I3− reduction.•The DSSC with Pt0.28Ni99.72 CE yields an efficiency of 6.42%.One of the challenges in developing advanced dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is the pursuit of cost-effective and robust counter electrodes (CEs). We present here the successful synthesis of binary PtxM100−x (M = Ni, Co, Fe) alloy nanostructures on Ti foil by a facile and environmental-friendly strategy for utilization as CEs in liquid-junction DSSCs. Due to the reasonable charge-transfer ability and excellent electrocatalytic activity, the resultant DSSC yields a promising power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 6.42% with binary Pt0.28Ni99.72 CE in comparison with 6.18% for pristine Pt CE based device. The easy synthesis, cost-effectiveness, and good electrocatalytic property may help the Pt0.28Ni99.72 nanostructure stand out as an alternative CE electrocatalyst in a DSSC.

Counter electrodes from conducting polymer intercalated graphene for dye-sensitized solar cells

Co-reporter:Ru Li, Qunwei Tang, Liangmin Yu, Xuefeng Yan, Zhiming Zhang, Peizhi Yang

Journal of Power Sources 2016 Volume 309() pp:231-237

Publication Date(Web):31 March 2016

DOI:10.1016/j.jpowsour.2016.01.095

•Conducting polymers are intercalated into graphene.•The intercalated electrodes are used for DSSC applications.•The intercalated electrodes have superior catalytic activity.•The efficiencies are markedly enhanced for intercalated electrode based DSSCs.Creation of cost-effective and platinum-free counter electrodes (CEs) is persistent for developing advanced dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). We present here the fabrication of conducting polymers such as polyaniline (PANi), polypyrole (PPy), or poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) intercalated reduced graphene oxide (rGO) CEs on flexible Ti foil or polyethylene-terephthalate substrate for liquid-junction DSSC applications. The ration architecture integrates the high electron-conducting ability of graphene and good electrocatalytic activity of a conducting polymer into a single CE material. The preliminary results demonstrate that the resultant CEs follow an order of rGO/PPy > rGO/PANi > rGO/PEDOT > rGO. A maximal cell efficiency of 6.23% is determined on the optimized solar cell device, yielding 104.9% enhancement in comparison to rGO based device.

Counter electrode electrocatalysts from one-dimensional coaxial alloy nanowires for efficient dye-sensitized solar cells

Co-reporter:Jialong Duan, Qunwei Tang, Huihui Zhang, Yuanyuan Meng, Liangmin Yu, Peizhi Yang

Journal of Power Sources 2016 Volume 302() pp:361-368

Publication Date(Web):20 January 2016

DOI:10.1016/j.jpowsour.2015.10.083

•Cu@M@Pt nanowire electrocatalysts are synthesized by galvanic displacement.•Cu@M@Pt alloy catalysts are employed as CEs for DSSCs.•The catalytic activity is markedly enhanced by alloying Cu, M with Pt.•The DSSCs yield maximum efficiency of 8.21%.Pursuit of cost-effective counter electrode (CE) electrocatalysts with no sacrifice of photovoltaic performances has been a persistent objective for advanced dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) platforms. Here we demonstrate the experimental realization of CE electrocatalysts from Cu@M@Pt (M = Fe, Co, Ni) coaxial alloy nanowires for efficient DSSCs. The reasonable electrocatalytic activity is attributed to work function matching of alloy CEs to potential of I−/I3−I−/I3− and redistribute the electronic structure on the Pt surface. In comparison with 8.48% for the Pt nanotube CE based DSSC, the solar cells yield power conversion efficiencies up to 8.21%, 7.85%, and 7.30% using Cu@Fe@Pt, Cu@Co@Pt, and Cu@Ni@Pt NWs, respectively. This work represents an important step forward, as it demonstrates how to make the CE catalyst active and to accelerate the electron transport from CE to electrolyte for high-efficiency but cost-effective DSSC platforms.Cu@M@Pt (M = Fe, Co, Ni) NWs were synthesized by a simple galvanic displacement and employed as counter electrode (CE) catalysts for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), yielding markedly enhanced catalytic activities and therefore power conversion efficiencies in their devices.

Multistep electrochemical deposition of hierarchical platinum alloy counter electrodes for dye-sensitized solar cells

Co-reporter:Junjun Zhang, Mingming Ma, Qunwei Tang, Liangmin Yu

Journal of Power Sources 2016 Volume 303() pp:243-249

Publication Date(Web):30 January 2016

DOI:10.1016/j.jpowsour.2015.11.012

•PtM (M = Ni, Fe, Co) alloy CEs are synthesized by a multistep electrodeposition.•The resultant PtM alloy CEs are fabricated into DSSCs.•The PtM alloy CEs have markedly enhanced catalytic activity.•The optimized DSSC yields a maximum efficiency of 8.65%.The preferred platinum counter electrode (CE) has been a burden for commercialization of dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) due to high expense and chemical corrosion by liquid electrolyte. In the current study, we have successfully realized the multistep deposition of platinum alloy CEs including PtNi, PtFe, and PtCo for liquid-junction DSSC applications. The preliminary results demonstrate that the enhanced electrochemical activities are attributable to high charge-transfer ability and matching work functions of the PtM (M = Ni, Fe, Co) alloy CEs to redox potential of I−/I3− electrolyte. The resultant DSSCs yield impressive power conversion efficiencies of 8.65%, 7.48%, and 7.08% with PtNi, PtFe, and PtCo CEs, respectively. On behalf of the competitive reactions between transition metals with liquid electrolyte, the PtM alloy CEs display enhanced long-term stability.

Counter electrode electrocatalysts from binary Pd–Co alloy nanoparticles for dye-sensitized solar cells

Co-reporter:Benlin He, Qunwei Tang, Huihui Zhang, Liangmin Yu

Solar Energy 2016 Volume 124() pp:68-75

Publication Date(Web):February 2016

DOI:10.1016/j.solener.2015.11.022

•Pd–Co alloy catalysts are fabricated by a facile rapid chemical reduction method.•The charge-transfer ability toward iodide reduction is significantly enhanced.•A conversion efficiency of 6.44% is obtained in its DSSC.•The strategy provides new opportunities for efficient but low-cost DSSCs.A class of alloyed Pd–Co catalysts are prepared by a mild solution method and subsequently blended with poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) binder for coating cost-effective counter electrodes (CEs) of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The electrocatalytic activity for the I−/I3− redox electrolyte as well as photovoltaic performances of DSSCs are optimized by adjusting stoichiometric Pd/Co ratios. Due to the merits of resultant Pd–Co alloy CEs on good electrical conduction, rapid charge-transfer ability, and increased electrocatalytic activity, a maximum conversion efficiency of 6.44% is determined on the optimized DSSCs in comparable to 6.18% for Pt CE based DSSC. It is obvious that Pd–Co alloy CEs can be a better cost-effective and efficient alternative due to the expensive price and scarcity of Pt for the large scale applications of DSSCs.

New corrosion inhibitor acrylamide methyl ether for mild steel in 1 M HCl

Co-reporter:Xinyu Ma, Xiaohui Jiang, Shuwei Xia, Mingli Shan, Xia Li, Liangmin Yu, Qunwei Tang

Applied Surface Science 2016 Volume 371() pp:248-257

Publication Date(Web):15 May 2016

DOI:10.1016/j.apsusc.2016.02.212

Highlights

•: We have synthesized new corrosion inhibitor acrylamide methyl ether.
•: We evaluate its and its raw material N-Methylol acrylamide inhibition performance and mechanism in 1 M HCl.
•: The results showed both of them are good inhibitor and inhibition mechanism is found.

Synthesis of γ-Fe2O3@SiO2@polypyrrole core/shell/shell nanospheres with flexible controllability of electromagnetic properties

Co-reporter:Yajie Zhang, Zhiming Zhang, Shicong Xu, Liangmin Yu, Yunze Long and Qunwei Tang

RSC Advances 2016 vol. 6(Issue 8) pp:6623-6630

Publication Date(Web):23 Dec 2015

DOI:10.1039/C5RA25576G

A new anchoring method by –SO3H groups was proposed to prepare γ-Fe2O3@SiO2@polypyrrole (γ-Fe2O3@SiO2@PPy) nanospheres with core/shell/shell structure. In the reaction process involved, the sulfonic-functionalized γ-Fe2O3@SiO2 (γ-Fe2O3@SiO2–SO3H) acts as the core for the polymerization of pyrrole. And PPy can be anchored to form on the surface of γ-Fe2O3@SiO2 to form γ-Fe2O3@SiO2@PPy nanospheres with the help of the sulfonic groups on the surface of γ-Fe2O3@SiO2. Moreover, flexible controllability of the conductivity and saturation magnetization of the resulting γ-Fe2O3@SiO2@PPy nanospheres can be realized through this method. The resulting electromagnetic γ-Fe2O3@SiO2@PPy nanospheres show a maximum conductivity of 53 S cm−1 and saturation magnetization of 8.17 A m2 kg−1. The method reported here may provide an efficient way to realize the best impedance matching between complex permeability and complex permittivity.

A strategy of integrating ultraviolet absorption and crosslinking in a single molecule: DFT calculation and experimental

Co-reporter:Mingli Shan, Yujing Liu, Shuwei Xia, Qunwei Tang, Liangmin Yu

Journal of Molecular Structure 2016 Volume 1107() pp:249-253

Publication Date(Web):5 March 2016

DOI:10.1016/j.molstruc.2015.11.049

•A high efficiency UV absorber was synthesized under the guideline of quantum chemistry calculations.•The excellent absorption of UV-CA comes from two electronic transition bands (S0→S1 and S0→S4).•IMHB in UV-0 part is stronger than that formed between UV-0 and NMA species.•The UV-CA-acrylic acid polymers show both high crosslinking degree and robust UV absorbing performances.Creation of advanced ultraviolet light absorbers having crosslinking ability has been persistent objective for anti-ultraviolent aging polymers. We present here the integration of 2, 4-dihydroxybenzophenone (UV-0) and N-methylol acrylamide (NMA) for novel ultraviolet absorber namely (3,5-dimethacrylamide-2,4-dihydroxyphenyl) (phenyl)methanone (UV-CA), which is subsequently utilized as a crosslinking agent after suffering Friedel–Crafts reaction. The preliminary results demonstrate that quantum chemical calculations (DFT) is a promising avenue in demonstrating the optimized geometry, charges, energy levels and UV electronic absorption bands of the UV-CA in the singlet (steady and excited states). The structure parameters and natural band orbital (NBO) calculations suggest that the intramolecular hydrogen bond (IMHB) in the UV-0 group is significantly enhanced in comparison to that between UV-0 and NMA groups. The acrylic acid polymers functionalized with UV-CA yield high crosslinking degree and robust UV absorbing performance. The impressive results demonstrate that quantum chemical calculations are promising in organic synthesis to develop advanced compounds.

Highly efficient antifouling property based on self-generating hydrogel layer of polyacrylamide coatings

Co-reporter:Gang Wu;Chang-Cheng Li;Xiao-Hui Jiang ;Liang-Min Yu

Journal of Applied Polymer Science 2016 Volume 133( Issue 42) pp:

Publication Date(Web):

DOI:10.1002/app.44111

ABSTRACT

Pursuit of robust antifouling coatings is a persistent objective for marine materials. We present here the experimental realization of a series of polyacrylamide-based resins with a self-generating hydrogel layer, arising from the polymerization of acrylamide (AM), butyl acrylate, methacrylic acid, and AM derivatives. The mechanical strength and thermal stability are markedly enhanced due to the change of the structure of modified resins. The preliminary results indicate that resultant resins with crosslinking structure show satisfactory abrasion resistance and swelling properties. The results of antifouling panel testing in shallow submergence for three months reveal that the addition of AM derivatives leads to generation of a thin soft and dynamic layer of hydrogel, which enhances antifouling properties. The formation of hydrogel and self-generating property make it promising in various antifouling applications. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 44111.

Corrosion protection of carbon steel by electrospun film containing polyaniline microfibers

Co-reporter:Yunyan Zhao, Zhiming Zhang, Liangmin Yu

Reactive and Functional Polymers 2016 Volume 102() pp:20-26

Publication Date(Web):May 2016

DOI:10.1016/j.reactfunctpolym.2016.03.007

•PANI microfibers are synthesized by an electrospinning method.•Electrospun PANI/PMMA coatings exhibited good corrosion resistant performance.•The coating with 25 wt% PANI microfibers has optimal anticorrosive performances.We present here the experimental realization of anticorrosion coating from electrospun conducting polyaniline (PANI)/poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) microfibers film for protecting carbon steel in 3 wt% NaCl solution. The preliminary results demonstrate that the carbon steel coated with electrospun PANI/PMMA microfibers film have enhanced anticorrosion performances in comparison with the drop-cast PANI/PMMA film. The superior anticorrosion protection of electrospun PANI/PMMA microfibers film with 25 wt% PANI may be due to its extraordinary compact microstructure. The current study may provide a new way of enhancing anticorrosion behaviors of PANI anticorrosion coatings.

Lysozyme as a recognition element for monitoring of bacterial population

Co-reporter:Laibao Zheng, Yi Wan, Liangmin Yu, Dun Zhang

Talanta 2016 Volume 146() pp:299-302

Publication Date(Web):1 January 2016

DOI:10.1016/j.talanta.2015.08.056

•Lysozyme was used as recognition element for bacteria detection for the first time.•The proposed detection method is simple, timesaving and cost-efficient.•FITC-LYZ exhibited antibacterial tracking activity toward target bacteria.Bacterial infections remain a significant challenge in biomedicine and environment safety. Increasing worldwide demand for point-of-care techniques and increasing concern on their safe development and use, require a simple and sensitive bioanalysis for pathogen detection. However, this goal is not yet achieved. A design for fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled lysozyme (FITC-LYZ), which provides quantitative binding information for gram-positive bacteria, Micrococcus luteus, and detects pathogen concentration, is presented. The functional lysozyme is used not only as the pathogenic detection platform, but also as a tracking reagent for microbial population in antibacterial tests. A nonlinear relationship between the system response and the logarithm of the bacterial concentration was observed in the range of 1.2×102–1.2×105 cfu mL−1. The system has a potential for further applications and provides a facile and simple method for detection of pathogenic bacteria. Meanwhile, the fluorescein isothiocyanate -labeled lysozyme is also employed as the tracking agent for antibacterial dynamic assay, which show a similar dynamic curve compared with UV–vis test.

Solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells from poly(ethylene oxide)/polyaniline electrolytes with catalytic and hole-transporting characteristics

Co-reporter:Yanyan Duan, Qunwei Tang, Yuran Chen, Zhiyuan Zhao, Yang Lv, Mengjin Hou, Peizhi Yang, Benlin He and Liangmin Yu

Journal of Materials Chemistry A 2015 vol. 3(Issue 10) pp:5368-5374

Publication Date(Web):22 Jan 2015

DOI:10.1039/C4TA06393G

The pursuit of cost-effective and efficient solid-state electrolytes is a persistent objective for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Herein, we present the experimental design of iodide/triiodide (I−/I3−)-incorporated poly(ethylene oxide)/polyaniline (PEO/PANi) solid-state electrolytes, aiming at expanding the catalytic event of I3− reduction from the electrolyte/counter electrode interface to both the interface and electrolyte system and shortening the charge diffusion path length. Except for I− species, the conjugated PANi is also responsible for dye regeneration and hole transfer to the counter electrode. A DSSC with (I−/I3−)-incorporated PEO/1.0 wt% PANi electrolyte yields a maximum efficiency of 6.1% in comparison with 0.8% obtained from a PANi-free electrolyte-based solar cell and 0.1% for a PANi-based solar cell.

Recent advances in critical materials for quantum dot-sensitized solar cells: a review

Co-reporter:Jialong Duan, Huihui Zhang, Qunwei Tang, Benlin He and Liangmin Yu

Journal of Materials Chemistry A 2015 vol. 3(Issue 34) pp:17497-17510

Publication Date(Web):02 Jul 2015

DOI:10.1039/C5TA03280F

Quantum dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSCs) present promising cost-effective alternatives to conventional silicon solar cells due to their distinctive properties such as simplicity in fabrication, possibility to realize light absorption in wide solar spectrum regions, and theoretical conversion efficiency up to 44%. This review highlights recent developments in critical materials including quantum dots, photoanodes, counter electrodes (CEs), and electrolytes for QDSC applications. Among them, electron recombination at the photoanode/electrolyte interface limits the evolution of high-efficiency QDSCs, therefore the optimized construction of quantum dots, the various microtopographies of wide bandgap semiconductors (TiO2, ZnO) as well as emerging CEs having good electrocatalytic activity are elaborated in this paper. We argue that these key factors can provide design guidelines for future successful applications and significantly promote the development of QDSCs. Liquid, quasi-solid-state, and solid-state electrolytes for QDSCs are summarized, aiming at enhancing the long-term stability of QDSCs. This review presented below gives a succinct summary of materials for QDSC applications, with a conclusion and future prospects section.

One-step growth of well-aligned TiO2 nanorod arrays for flexible dye-sensitized solar cells

Co-reporter:Xiaoxu Chen, Qunwei Tang, Zhiyuan Zhao, Xinghui Wang, Benlin He and Liangmin Yu

Chemical Communications 2015 vol. 51(Issue 10) pp:1945-1948

Publication Date(Web):11 Dec 2014

DOI:10.1039/C4CC09083G

We present here the feasibility of growing well-aligned TiO2 nanorod arrays by a dc reactive magnetron sputtering strategy for flexible dye-sensitized solar cells. These flexible devices yield an efficiency of 5.3% in comparison to 1.2% from traditional TiO2 nanoparticles by a low-temperature technique.

7.35% Efficiency rear-irradiated flexible dye-sensitized solar cells by sealing liquid electrolyte in a groove

Co-reporter:Xiaopeng Wang, Qunwei Tang, Benlin He, Ru Li and Liangmin Yu

Chemical Communications 2015 vol. 51(Issue 3) pp:491-494

Publication Date(Web):05 Nov 2014

DOI:10.1039/C4CC07549H

We report the feasibility of assembling rear-irradiated flexible dye-sensitized solar cells employing a transparent Ni–Se alloy counter electrode along with a groove stored TiO2 and liquid electrolyte. The flexible device with the NiSe counter electrode and anode at a groove depth of 36 μm yielded a maximum efficiency of 7.35%.

Cost-effective, transparent iron selenide nanoporous alloy counter electrode for bifacial dye-sensitized solar cell

Co-reporter:Juan Liu, Qunwei Tang, Benlin He, Liangmin Yu

Journal of Power Sources 2015 Volume 282() pp:79-86

Publication Date(Web):15 May 2015

DOI:10.1016/j.jpowsour.2015.02.045

•Nanoporous FeSe alloy counter electrodes are synthesized by a mild solution method.•Surfactant DBSA is utilized as a template for preparing nanopores.•The resultant FeSe alloy electrode has high optical transparency.•The transparent FeSe alloy CEs are used for bifacial DSSC applications.•The DSSC with FeSe CE yields front and rear efficiencies of 9.16% and 5.38%, respectively.Pursuit of cost-effective and efficient counter electrodes (CEs) is a persistent objective for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). We present here the design of transparent Fe–Se nanoporous alloy CEs for bifacial DSSC applications. Due to the superior charge-transfer ability for I−/I3− redox couples, electrocatalytic reduction toward I3− species, and optical transparency in visible-light region, the bifacial DSSC with FeSe alloy electrode yields maximum front and rear efficiencies of 9.16% and 5.38%, respectively. A fast start-up, high multiple start capability, and good stability of the FeSe alloy CE demonstrate the potential applications in driving solar panels. The impressive efficiency along with simple preparation of the cost-effective Fe–Se nanoporous alloy CEs highlights their potential application in robust bifacial DSSCs.

A dye-sensitized solar cell having polyaniline species in each component with 3.1%-efficiency

Co-reporter:Yanyan Duan, Yuran Chen, Qunwei Tang, Zhiyuan Zhao, Mengjin Hou, Ru Li, Benlin He, Liangmin Yu, Peizhi Yang, Zhiming Zhang

Journal of Power Sources 2015 Volume 284() pp:178-185

Publication Date(Web):15 June 2015

DOI:10.1016/j.jpowsour.2015.03.032

•The DSSC having PANi species in each component yield an efficiency of 3.1%.•The solar cell consists of a PANi/TiO2 anode, a PANi CE, and a PANi electrolyte.•The PANi electrolyte can shorten charge diffusion path length.•The new concept is also applicable to all-carbon solar cells, etc.Pursuit of technological implementation with no sacrifice of photovoltaic performances has been a persistent objective for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). We launch here the experimental realization of a class of DSSCs consisting of polyaniline (PANi) incorporated TiO2 anodes, PANi counter electrodes (CEs), and iodide doped PANi solid-state electrolytes. The PANi filled in photoanode can inject electrons for dye recovery, whereas the PANi CE fulfills the function of reducing triiodide into iodide ions. In particular, the solid PANi electrolyte has an ability of catalyzing triiodide species, shortening charge diffusion path length, and recovering dye molecules at anode/electrolyte interface. The photovoltaic performances are optimized by adjusting assembly process and lithium iodide dosage, yielding a maximum efficiency as high as 3.1% in the resultant DSSC device accompanied with fast start-up, multiple start/stop cycling, and good stability under persistent irradiation.

Bifacial dye-sensitized solar cells with transparent cobalt selenide alloy counter electrodes

Co-reporter:Yanyan Duan, Qunwei Tang, Benlin He, Zhiyuan Zhao, Ling Zhu, Liangmin Yu

Journal of Power Sources 2015 Volume 284() pp:349-354

Publication Date(Web):15 June 2015

DOI:10.1016/j.jpowsour.2015.03.045

•Binary Co0.85Se alloy CE is synthesized by a mild solution method.•The resultant Co0.85Se alloy CE shows high optical transparency.•The DSSC with Co0.85Se CE can generate electricity from either side.•Maximum front and rear efficiencies of 8.30% and 4.63% are measured in the DSSC, respectively.High power conversion efficiency and cost-effectiveness are two persistent objectives for dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC). Electricity generation from either front or rear side of a bifacial DSSC has been considered as a facile avenue of bringing down the cost of solar-to-electric conversion. Therefore, the fabrication of a transparent counter electrode (CE) with a high electrocatalytic activity is a prerequisite to realize this goal. We present here the feasibility of utilizing transparent cobalt selenide (Co–Se) binary alloy counter electrode for bifacial DSSC application, in which binary Co–Se alloy electrode is synthesized by a mild solution strategy and the cell device is irradiated by either front or rear side. Due to the high optical transparency, charge-transfer ability, and electrocatalytic activity, maximum front and rear efficiencies of 8.30% and 4.63% are recorded under simulated air mass 1.5 (AM1.5) irradiation, respectively. The impressive efficiency along with fast start-up, multiple start capability, and simple preparation highlights the potential application of cost-effective and transparent Co–Se alloy CE in robust bifacial DSSCs.

Multifunctional graphene incorporated polyacrylamide conducting gel electrolytes for efficient quasi-solid-state quantum dot-sensitized solar cells

Co-reporter:Jialong Duan, Qunwei Tang, Ru Li, Benlin He, Liangmin Yu, Peizhi Yang

Journal of Power Sources 2015 Volume 284() pp:369-376

Publication Date(Web):15 June 2015

DOI:10.1016/j.jpowsour.2015.03.060

•Graphene is incorporated into microporous PAAm matrix.•The catalytic reaction of redox couples is conducted into conducting gel electrolyte.•Liquid electrolyte is driven by osmotic pressure and capillary diffusion.•A power conversion efficiency of 2.34% is recorded in the quasi-solid-state QDSC.Pursuit of a high efficiency and stability has been a persistent objective for quantum dot-sensitized solar cells (QDSCs). Here we launch a strategy of synthesizing graphene implanted polyacrylamide (PAAm-G) conducting gel electrolytes for quasi-solid-state QDSCs. With an aim of elevating the dosage of S2−/Sx2− redox couples and therefore charge-transfer ability, both osmotic press across the PAAm-G and capillary force within the three-dimensional micropores are utilized as driving forces. A promising power conversion efficiency of 2.34% is recorded for the QDSCs by optimizing graphene dosage in the conducting gel electrolyte. The enhanced conversion efficiency of solar cell is attributed to the expanded catalytic area from counter electrolyte/electrolyte interface to both interface and the conducting gel electrolyte.

Cost-effective counter electrode electrocatalysts from iron@palladium and iron@platinum alloy nanospheres for dye-sensitized solar cells

Co-reporter:Qunwei Tang, Juan Liu, Huihui Zhang, Benlin He, Liangmin Yu

Journal of Power Sources 2015 Volume 297() pp:1-8

Publication Date(Web):30 November 2015

DOI:10.1016/j.jpowsour.2015.07.091

•Fe@M alloy nanospheres catalysts are synthesized by galvanic displacement.•Fe@M alloy catalysts are employed as CEs for DSSCs.•The catalytic activity is markedly enhanced by alloying Fe with Pt or Pd.•The DSSCs with Fe@Pt and Fe@Pd yield efficiencies of 8.74%, and 7.22%, respectively.Pursuit of cost-effective counter electrode (CE) electrocatalysts with no sacrifice of photovoltaic performances has been a persistent objective for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Here we demonstrate the galvanic replacement realization of cost-effective CEs from Fe@M (M = Pd, Pt) nanospheres for DSSCs. Due to the enhanced catalytic activity originated from compressive strain and extended surface in tuning the electronic structure of Pd (or Pt) shell along with competitive dissolution reaction of Fe with electrolyte, the cells with high durability display efficiencies of 8.74% and 7.22%. The impressive results along with simple synthesis highlight the potential application of Fe@M nanospheres in robust DSSCs.

Efficient dye-sensitized solar cells from curved silicate microsheet caged TiO2 photoanodes. An avenue of enhancing light harvesting

Co-reporter:Zubin Wang, Qunwei Tang, Benlin He, Haiyan Chen, Liangmin Yu

Electrochimica Acta 2015 Volume 178() pp:18-24

Publication Date(Web):1 October 2015

DOI:10.1016/j.electacta.2015.07.120

•Curved silicate microsheets are incorporated with TiO2 for light harvesting in DSSC•The optical matching between silicate and TiO2 is superior to light reflection.•The curved silicate can hinder the recombination reaction of electrons with I3−.•The DSSC with TiO2/curved silicate photoanode shows an efficiency of 9.22%Enhancement of light harvesting has been a persistent objective for elevating dye excitation and therefore power conversion efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Here we launch a strategy of markedly enhancing light harvesting by caging TiO2 nanoparticles with curved silica microsheets. The results show that the strategy is versatile in suppressing the recombination reaction of electrons with I3− species in liquid electrolyte. Due to the superior reflective behaviors of curved silica microsheets, an optimal efficiency of 9.22% is recorded under simulated air mass 1.5 global sunlight on the DSSC in comparison with 6.51% and 7.51% from pristine TiO2 and planar silicate microsheet incorporated TiO2 photoanode based solar cells, respectively. This strategy is also believed to be applicable to other solar cells such as perovskite solar cells and quantum dot-sensitized solar cells.

Cost−effective alloy counter electrodes as a new avenue for high−efficiency dye−sensitized solar cells

Co-reporter:Benlin He, Qunwei Tang, Liangmin Yu, Peizhi Yang

Electrochimica Acta 2015 Volume 158() pp:397-402

Publication Date(Web):10 March 2015

DOI:10.1016/j.electacta.2015.01.194

•Pt–Ni alloy CEs are synthesized by an electrochemical codeposition method•The dosage of Pt is markedly reduced to fabricate cost−effective CE•Alloying of Pt with Ni can favor electronic perturbation for enhanced electrocatalysis•The DSSC with PtNi0.75 yields an efficiency of 8.59%Pursuit of cost−effective and efficient counter electrodes (CEs) has been a persistent objective for dye−sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Aiming at reducing fabrication cost without sacrificing power conversion efficiency of DSSCs, here we report the successful design of binary Pt–Ni alloy CEs by a simple cyclic voltammetry technique. Due to the rapid charge transfer ability and electrocatalytic activity, the power conversion efficiency of the DSSC employing binary PtNi0.75 alloy CE has been elevated to 8.59% in comparison with 6.98% from Pt−based solar cell. The impressive results along with simple synthesis highlight the potential application of low−Pt alloys in robust DSSCs.

Enhanced anticorrosion properties of epoxy coatings from Al and Zn based pigments

Co-reporter:Kai Wan;Changcheng Li;Cuijuan Xing

Chemical Research in Chinese Universities 2015 Volume 31( Issue 4) pp:573-580

Publication Date(Web):2015 August

DOI:10.1007/s40242-015-5050-1

Anticorrosion epoxy coatings from Al and Zn based pigments were synthesized by adjusting their volume ratios, aiming at their increasing anticorrosion performances. The anticorrosion properties were examined via electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, Tafel polarization curve analysis and salt spray test. The coating morphologies before and after the salt spray tests were studied via scanning electron microscopy(SEM). The elemental and chemical compositions of the corroded surfaces of the coatings were analyzed by means of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy(XPS). The results indicate that the coating composed of Al/Zn at 10:1(volume ratio) displays the maximum anticorrosion performances, which are superior to those of pristine Al or Zn based pigment.

Bifacial dye-sensitized solar cells with enhanced rear efficiency and power output

Co-reporter:Hongyuan Cai, Qunwei Tang, Benlin He, Ru Li and Liangmin Yu

Nanoscale 2014 vol. 6(Issue 24) pp:15127-15133

Publication Date(Web):16 Oct 2014

DOI:10.1039/C4NR04911J

Pursuing a high power conversion efficiency with no sacrifice of cost-effectiveness has been a persistent objective for dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). One promising solution to this impasse is increased light harvesting. Previous efforts in light harvesting have been made on setting blocking layers or reflecting layers, or adding a light harvester, resulting in tedious procedures without reducing the expenses. We present a mild solution strategy for synthesizing transparent Ru–Se alloy counter electrodes (CEs) for bifacial DSSC applications, displaying optimal front and rear efficiencies of 8.76% and 5.90%, respectively. In comparison with pristine Pt-based solar cells, the maximum power output has also been markedly enhanced. Moreover, fast start-up, high multiple start capability, and good stability are observed in the bifacial DSSCs with transparent Ru–Se binary alloy electrodes. The impressive efficiencies along with simple preparation of the cost-effective Ru–Se alloy CEs demonstrates their potential application in robust DSSCs.

Transparent nickel selenide alloy counter electrodes for bifacial dye-sensitized solar cells exceeding 10% efficiency

Co-reporter:Yanyan Duan, Qunwei Tang, Benlin He, Ru Li and Liangmin Yu

Nanoscale 2014 vol. 6(Issue 21) pp:12601-12608

Publication Date(Web):11 Aug 2014

DOI:10.1039/C4NR03900A

In the current work, we report a series of bifacial dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) that provide power conversion efficiencies of more than 10% from bifacial irradiation. The device comprises an N719-sensitized TiO2 anode, a transparent nickel selenide (Ni–Se) alloy counter electrode (CE), and liquid electrolyte containing I−/I3− redox couples. Because of the high optical transparency, electron conduction ability, electrocatalytic activity of Ni–Se CEs, as well as dye illumination, electron excitation and power conversion efficiency have been remarkably enhanced. Results indicate that incident light from a transparent CE has a compensation effect to the light from the anode. The impressive efficiency along with simple preparation of the cost-effective Ni–Se alloy CEs highlights the potential application of bifacial illumination technique in robust DSSCs.

Poly(vinylidene fluoride)–implanted cobalt–platinum alloy counter electrodes for dye–sensitized solar cells

Co-reporter:Benlin He, Qunwei Tang, Xin Meng, Liangmin Yu

Electrochimica Acta 2014 Volume 147() pp:209-215

Publication Date(Web):20 November 2014

DOI:10.1016/j.electacta.2014.09.121

•Co–Pt alloys are synthesized by a mild solution method.•Co–Pt alloys are implanted into PVDF for coating low–Pt CEs.•The DSSC employing PVDF–implanted Co2Pt alloy CE shows an efficiency of 7.61%.•The resultant CEs are stable and robust for efficient DSSC application.Exploration of cost–effective counter electrodes (CEs) with simple technique for large–scale synthesis has been a persistent objective for dye–sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). In the current work, binary cobalt–platinum (Co–Pt) alloys are synthesized by a mild solution method and implanted into poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) for coating cost–effective CEs. Owing to the excellent adhesiveness of PVDF, Co–Pt alloys are solidly attached on conductive glass substrate. The electrical conduction ability and electrochemical behavior of interconnected Co–Pt channels demonstrate the potential use of PVDF–implanted Co–Pt alloy CE in robust DSSCs. The electrochemical properties as well as photovoltaic performances are optimized by adjusting stoichiometric ratios of Co/Pt. An optimal power conversion efficiency of 7.61% is recorded from DSSC employing PVDF–implanted Co2Pt alloy CE, which is better than 6.02% from expensive Pt CE or 1.45% from PVDF–implanted Co–CE based DSSC. Relatively stabilities in photocurrent and multiple start/stop cycles are determined for the cell with PVDF–implanted Co–Pt alloy CE.Binary Co–Pt alloys are synthesized by a mild solution method and implanted into PVDF for low-cost CE materials in dye-sensitized solar cells. The kinetics for triiodide reduction is significantly accelerated owing to promising charge-transfer ability and electrocatalytic performances, an optimal power conversion efficiency of 7.61% is recorded in PVDF implanted Co2Pt alloy CE based device.

Efficient In2S3 Quantum dot−sensitized Solar Cells: A Promising Power Conversion Efficiency of 1.30%

Co-reporter:Jialong Duan, Qunwei Tang, Benlin He, Liangmin Yu

Electrochimica Acta 2014 Volume 139() pp:381-385

Publication Date(Web):1 September 2014

DOI:10.1016/j.electacta.2014.06.165

•In2S3 quantum dots are adsorbed on TiO2 by a repeated deposition technique.•The In2S3 loading and electron density on CB of TiO2 are elevated.•A promising power conversion efficiency of 1.30% is recorded in QDSSC.As a branch of dye − sensitized solar cell, quantum dot − sensitized solar cells (QDSSCs) have attracted growing interests because of promisingly theoretical electron density on conduction band of TiO2 nanocrystallite. Here we report the synthesis of efficient In2S3 sensitized solar cells. The adsorption cycles are repeated to optimize In2S3 loading and therefore photovoltaic performances. A promising power conversion efficiency of 1.30% (under AM 1.5G) is recorded at 24 cycles of In2S3 adsorption. The relatively high conversion efficiency in combination with simple preparation demonstrates the potential use of In2S3 quantum dots in QDSSCs.

Anti-corrosion performance of nanostructured poly(aniline-co-metanilic acid) on carbon steel

Co-reporter:Cuijuan Xing, Zhiming Zhang, Liangmin Yu, Geoffrey I.N. Waterhouse, Lijuan Zhang

Progress in Organic Coatings 2014 Volume 77(Issue 2) pp:354-360

Publication Date(Web):February 2014

DOI:10.1016/j.porgcoat.2013.10.010

•Poly(aniline-co-metanilic acid) (PANIMA) micro/nanostructures were prepared.•The anti-corrosion performance of the PANIMA was evaluated.•SO3H group in the copolymer is not good for the anti-corrosion performance.In order to investigate the effect of a strongly hydrophilic substituent group on the anticorrosion properties of polyaniline (PANI) coatings, sulfonic acid groups (SO3H) were introduced into the polyaniline molecular structure by the copolymerization of aniline (ANI) and 3-aminobenzenesulfonic acid (metanilic acid, MA), using ammonium persulfate as an oxidant. The MA/ANI monomer ratio of the poly(aniline-co-metanilic acid) (PANIMA) products was systematically varied in the range 0–1. The PANIMA copolymers contained sulfur in the following forms: HSO4− from the external dopant (H2SO4 obtained from the reduction of the persulfate oxidant) or SO3H groups from the external MA dopant, and SO3H groups from the metanilic copolymerization unit. The influence of HSO4− or SO3H in the external dopant and SO3H in the copolymerization unit on the anticorrosive properties of PANIMA was observed. The morphologies of the different PANIMA products were characterized by SEM. At low MA/ANI ratios, PANIMA nanofibres formed whereas at near stoichiometric MA/ANI ratios PANIMA nanogranules were obtained. The chemical structure of the PANIMA products was determined by FTIR, UV–vis spectroscopy and XRD. The anti-corrosion behavior of PANIMA coated carbon steel electrodes was investigated in 1 M H2SO4 solutions by the potentiodynamic polarization technique and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Results show that the PANIMA coatings offer good anti-corrosion protection to carbon steel in 1 M H2SO4 solutions, with the degree of protection depending on the sulfonic acid group and HSO4− dopant content in the coatings. Low sulfur content in the PANIMA coatings afforded the best protection, though the performance of all PANIMA coatings was inferior to PANI itself under the applied testing conditions.

Transparent Metal Selenide Alloy Counter Electrodes for High-Efficiency Bifacial Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

Co-reporter:Yanyan Duan; Qunwei Tang;Juan Liu;Dr. Benlin He ; Liangmin Yu

Angewandte Chemie International Edition 2014 Volume 53( Issue 52) pp:14569-14574

Publication Date(Web):

DOI:10.1002/anie.201409422

Abstract

The exploration of cost-effective and transparent counter electrodes (CEs) is a persistent objective in the development of bifacial dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). Transparent counter electrodes based on binary-alloy metal selenides (M-Se; M=Co, Ni, Cu, Fe, Ru) are now obtained by a mild, solution-based method and employed in efficient bifacial DSSCs. Owing to superior charge-transfer ability for the I⁻/I₃⁻ redox couple, electrocatalytic activity toward I₃⁻ reduction, and optical transparency, the bifacial DSSCs with CEs consisting of a metal selenide alloy yield front and rear efficiencies of 8.30 % and 4.63 % for Co_0.85Se, 7.85 % and 4.37 % for Ni_0.85Se, 6.43 % and 4.24 % for Cu_0.50Se, 7.64 % and 5.05 % for FeSe, and 9.22 % and 5.90 % for Ru_0.33Se in comparison with 6.18 % and 3.56 % for a cell with an electrode based on pristine platinum, respectively. Moreover, fast activity onset, high multiple start/stop capability, and relatively good stability demonstrate that these new electrodes should find applications in solar panels.

Platinum-Free Binary Co-Ni Alloy Counter Electrodes for Efficient Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells

Co-reporter:Xiaoxu Chen; Qunwei Tang;Dr. Benlin He;Dr. Lin Lin; Liangmin Yu

Angewandte Chemie International Edition 2014 Volume 53( Issue 40) pp:10799-10803

Publication Date(Web):

DOI:10.1002/anie.201406982

Abstract

Dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) have attracted growing interest because of their application in renewable energy technologies in developing modern low-carbon economies. However, the commercial application of DSSCs has been hindered by the high expenses of platinum (Pt) counter electrodes (CEs). Here we use Pt-free binary Co-Ni alloys synthesized by a mild hydrothermal strategy as CE materials in efficient DSSCs. As a result of the rapid charge transfer, good electrical conduction, and reasonable electrocatalysis, the power conversion efficiencies of Co-Ni-based DSSCs are higher than those of Pt-only CEs, and the fabrication expense is markedly reduced. The DSSCs based on a CoNi_0.25 alloy CE displays an impressive power conversion efficiency of 8.39 %, fast start-up, multiple start/stop cycling, and good stability under extended irradiation.

The morphology dependence of cuprous oxide and its photocatalytic properties

Co-reporter:Ru Li, Xuefeng Yan, Liangmin Yu, Zhiming Zhang, Qunwei Tang and Yongping Pan

CrystEngComm 2013 vol. 15(Issue 46) pp:10049-10058

Publication Date(Web):02 Oct 2013

DOI:10.1039/C3CE41470A

Cuprous oxide (Cu2O) micro-/nanocrystals were synthesized by a simple liquid phase reduction process with copper sulfate as a copper source and glucose monohydrate as a reducer. Detailed investigations of the temperature and feeding manners of the reagents on the morphology and particle size of Cu2O were carried out. X-ray diffraction patterns, morphology observations and ultraviolet–visible diffuse reflection absorption spectra were employed to characterize the crystallinity, morphology and light response. The characterization results gave three extraordinary morphologies: short hexapods, {110} truncated octahedron, and octahedron. The photocatalytic behaviors of the Cu2O crystals were evaluated by monitoring the degradation rate of methyl orange (MO), a target dye. An order for the light photocatalytic activities toward MO was determined: octahedron (diameter 0.172 μm) > short hexapods > octahedron (diameter 5.530 μm) > {110} truncated octahedron crystals. The bewitching structure, controllable morphology and robust photocatalytic performances as well as the easy synthesis mean that the Cu2O crystals are good candidates as light photocatalysts.

Synthesis and solution behavior of hydrophobically associating polyacrylamide containing capsaicin-like moieties

Co-reporter:Lanni Jia;Ru Li;Xuefeng Yan ;Zhiming Zhang

Journal of Applied Polymer Science 2013 Volume 130( Issue 3) pp:1794-1804

Publication Date(Web):

DOI:10.1002/app.39350

ABSTRACT

A novel hydrophobically associating polyacrylamide (PAAHO) of acrylamide, 2-acrylamide-2-methylpropane sulfonate, capsaicin-like monomer N-(4-hydroxy-3-methoxy-benzyl) acrylamide (HMBA), and hydrophobic monomer octadecyl acrylate was synthesized by micellar copolymerization and characterized by fourier transform infrared spectrum, ultraviolet-visible spectrum, and thermogravimetric analysis, respectively. By adjusting various factors, a series of PAAHOs with different block structures were prepared. The hydrophobic association properties were then studied by viscometry and fluorescence spectrometry. Solution behavior was examined with respect to polymer concentration, ionic strength, and temperature. Also, the antibacterial activity was investigated. Results show that initiator amount influenced not only the molecular weight but also the yield and composition of resulting copolymers. PAAHOs possess strong thickening capability, and the hydrophobic association is enhanced as hydrophobe content increases. PAAHOs have excellent viscosity retention in brine solution and exhibit unique rheological behavior including a salt-thickening response. Incorporation of HMBA greatly improves the thermal stability of PAAHO. Moreover, PAAHO is endowed with considerable antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 130: 1794–1804, 2013

Highly Conductive Polypyrrole/γ-Fe2O3 Nanospheres with Good Magnetic Properties Obtained through an Improved Chemical One-Step Method

Co-reporter:Zhiming Zhang, Qiong Li, Liangmin Yu, Zhijie Cui, Lijuan Zhang, and Graham A. Bowmaker

Macromolecules 2011 Volume 44(Issue 12) pp:4610-4615

Publication Date(Web):May 26, 2011

DOI:10.1021/ma2006359

An improved chemical one-step method (ICOSM) was used to prepare highly conductive and magnetic polypyrrole/γ-Fe2O3 (PPy/γ-Fe2O3) nanospheres ∼80 nm in diameter. In the reaction process involved, FeCl3 acts as an oxidant for the polymerization of pyrrole and as a source of FeIII for the formation of γ-Fe2O3, which also requires the initial presence of FeII, provided by the addition of FeCl2. The method differs from the previous chemical one-step method (COSM) through the addition of p-toluenesulfonic acid (p-TSA) as the dopant after addition of the FeCl3 solution was finished. The conductive and magnetic properties of PPy/γ-Fe2O3 nanospheres increased and reached maximum values simultaneously with increasing amounts of FeCl2, contrary to the result observed in the previous COSM. The resulting electromagnetic PPy/γ-Fe2O3 nanospheres show maximum conductivity of 64.4 S/cm and saturation magnetization of 4.85 A m2/kg. The p-TSA dopant plays a critical role in the formation of PPy/γ-Fe2O3 nanospheres.

A solid-contact Pb2+- selective electrode based on electrospun polyaniline microfibers film as ion-to-electron transducer

Co-reporter:Chenchen Liu, Xiaohui Jiang, Yunyan Zhao, Wenwen Jiang, Zhiming Zhang, Liangmin Yu

Electrochimica Acta (20 March 2017) Volume 231() pp:

Publication Date(Web):20 March 2017

DOI:10.1016/j.electacta.2017.01.162

Electrospun polyaniline (PANI) microfibers are applied as ion-to-electron transducer in solid contact Pb2+-ion-selective electrode (GC/s-PANI/Pb2+-ISE). The corresponding electrode shows a Nernstian slope of 28.4 mV/decade, and a detection limit of 6.3 × 10−10 M can be acquired within a range of 10−9–10−3M Pb(NO3)2, with a response time shorter than 10s. The GC/s-PANI/Pb2+-ISE performs higher capacitance and lower impedance than the drop-coating GC/d-PANI/Pb2+-ISE measured by CV and EIS, demonstrating faster ion-to-electron transportation. Additionally, in the water layer test, interfacial water film is shown to be eliminated in the GC/s-PANI/Pb2+-ISE. The developed electrode is applied to the determination of lead in real tap water, and the corresponding results are in compliance with those determined by atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) method. This study targeted at PANI microfibers demonstrates a novel strategy of boosting potential stability and decreasing detection limit for solid contact ion-selective electrodes.

Recent advances in critical materials for quantum dot-sensitized solar cells: a review

Co-reporter:Jialong Duan, Huihui Zhang, Qunwei Tang, Benlin He and Liangmin Yu

Journal of Materials Chemistry A 2015 - vol. 3(Issue 34) pp:NaN17510-17510

Publication Date(Web):2015/07/02

DOI:10.1039/C5TA03280F

Solid-state dye-sensitized solar cells from poly(ethylene oxide)/polyaniline electrolytes with catalytic and hole-transporting characteristics

Co-reporter:Yanyan Duan, Qunwei Tang, Yuran Chen, Zhiyuan Zhao, Yang Lv, Mengjin Hou, Peizhi Yang, Benlin He and Liangmin Yu

Journal of Materials Chemistry A 2015 - vol. 3(Issue 10) pp:NaN5374-5374

Publication Date(Web):2015/01/22

DOI:10.1039/C4TA06393G

7.35% Efficiency rear-irradiated flexible dye-sensitized solar cells by sealing liquid electrolyte in a groove

Co-reporter:Xiaopeng Wang, Qunwei Tang, Benlin He, Ru Li and Liangmin Yu