2026, Vol.36, No.2

Fast-charging natural graphite anodes: synergistic effects of optimized spheronization and TLE-tailored pitch coating

Ha Seung-Jae , leehyocheol , Kim Changkyu and 4 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.1007~1027 | number of Cited : 0

Enhanced anti-corrosion performance of copper doped diamond-like carbon thin films

Khan Mohd Sarim , Sasikumar C. , Srivastava Sanjay | 2026, 36(2) | pp.1029~1047 | number of Cited : 0

This work evaluated the microstructural, electrochemical and anti-corrosion properties of Cu-doped diamond-like carbon (DLC) coatings deposited using the plasma-enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) technique. The coatings were synthesized with varying Cu concentrations (0.68, 2.25,10.28, 22.32, and 40.1 at.%) to investigate their effect on film characteristics. The structural and chemical composition of the coatings was analysed using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Raman spectroscopy, field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The electrochemical performance was evaluated using open circuit potential (OCP), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and potentio dynamic polarization (PP) tests in a 3.5 wt% NaCl solution. The XPS and Raman analysis revealed that Cu incorporation altered the sp²/sp³ hybridization ratio, increasing graphitization at higher concentrations. The results demonstrated that DLC-Cu₂.₂₅ exhibited the lowest surface roughness (Ra = 7 nm), enhancing its corrosion resistance due to its dense, uniform structure and passivating CuO layer. The electrochemical results showed that the corrosion potential shifted towards a more noble direction (-640 mV), and the corrosion rate decreased to 0.003 mm/year, confirming improved stability. However, at higher Cu concentrations, Cu segregation led to increased roughness (Ra = 30 nm) and localized corrosion due to the formation of Cu-rich clusters. Incorporation of Cu improves the corrosion resistance of DLC coatings, although at higher Cu levels some corrosion still occurs. These findings highlight that moderate Cu incorporation optimally enhances protective performance, whereas excessive Cu content compromises corrosion resistance. A mechanistic description of the corrosion-resistance behaviour of Cu-DLC coatings is proposed.

Design of F-doped $$\text{CoS}_2@\text{C}$$ with void structure as a high-performance anode for lithium-ion battery

Chae Eunseon , Lee In Woo , Seongjae Myeong and 4 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.1049~1060 | number of Cited : 0

Deformation-free circular fibers derived from aqueous reduced graphene oxide for high-performance fiber supercapacitors

Kwon Oh Sung , Lee Hye Jung , Kim Byeong Guk and 6 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.1061~1073 | number of Cited : 0

Solution-processed graphene fibers are commonly fabricated by wet spinning of a liquid-crystalline (LC) graphene oxide (GO) dope, owing to the homogeneous aqueous dispersion of GO, strong hydrogen bonding, and nematic self-assembly. A straightforward route has thus been established for the formation of graphene fibers. However, during coagulation and subsequent chemical reduction, GO sheets consolidate into densely stacked fiber architectures, which often develop geometric non-uniformity due to anisotropic shrinkage during solvent exchange and reduction. Following chemical reduction, restacking and structural deformation occur, leading to the formation of large voids and ion-inaccessible volumes that reduce the ion-accessible surface area, thereby limiting their applicability in high-performance supercapacitors. Herein, deformation-free circular graphene fibers (GFs) are introduced via wet spinning using a hybrid ammonia-based graphene oxide (AGO)–reduced graphene oxide (rGO) composite dope. The AGO precursor preserves the intrinsic LC assembly characteristics of GO while offering improved dispersion stability and tunable intersheet interactions. The rGO component is engineered to retain stable aqueous dispersibility, enabling homogeneous co-dispersion with AGO sheets. Incorporation of rGO suppresses excessive LC-driven stacking and moderates solvent–coagulant exchange during extrusion, enabling rapid and homogeneous coagulation. In contrast to the layered architecture derived from conventional GO spinning, the rGO-rich hybrid fibers exhibit uniformly organized porous structures with effective pore sites. The mechanically rigid and chemically stable rGO forms a percolated structural framework that supports homogeneous electrical conductivity and mechanical strength while preserving high circularity with axial and radial uniformity. Consequently, the optimized AGO–rGO fibers exhibit enhanced electrical conductivity (567 S cm–1 after post-drawing) and improved electrochemical capacitance, demonstrating strong potential for high-performance fiber-shaped or wearable supercapacitors.

Effects of nitrogen functional groups and pore structure on high-affinity dye adsorption by plasma-treated activated carbon pellets

Han Min Seong , Kwon Woong , Baek Youngbin and 2 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.1075~1083 | number of Cited : 0

Erratum : Thermal conductivities of a needle-punched carbon/carbon composite with unbalanced structures

Lee Jungmin , Lee Hyung Ik , Paik Jong Gyu | 2026, 36(2) | pp.463~471 | number of Cited : 0

AI-driven strategies for the design and functionalization of carbon nanotubes: a critical review

Mohammadi Mohammad , Bazargan Lari Yousef , Daneshmand Farhang and 1 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.547~577 | number of Cited : 0

Density functional theory insights into decorated, doped, and defective graphene as a model system for understanding hydrogen storage in carbon materials

Myrzakhmetov Bauyrzhan , Shomenov Toreniyaz , Sultanov Fail and 3 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.579~616 | number of Cited : 0

One of the primary problems with making a hydrogen economy work is finding a way to store hydrogen. This is especially true because existing materials have a trade-off between storage capacity, stability, and reversibility. Although numerous studies have investigated hydrogen adsorption on carbon-based materials, a comprehensive understanding of how surface functionalization modulates adsorption mechanisms is still lacking. This review addresses this knowledge gap by focusing on current developments in hydrogen storage using functionalized graphene as a model system to elucidate the general behavior of carbon-based materials.Graphene’s high surface area, low mass density, and chemical tunability make it an ideal reference platform compared to other storage media such as metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), which are often structurally fragile, and metal hydrides, which require high desorption temperatures. Insights derived from density functional theory (DFT) and DFT-based ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations are emphasized. The effects of metal decoration, heteroatom doping, and defect engineering on hydrogen adsorption behavior are systematically evaluated. Among defect types, single-vacancy graphene shows more favorable hydrogen binding than Stone-Wales or double-vacancy structures. Metal decoration with elements such as lithium, magnesium, calcium, or palladium enhances adsorption capacity, although clustering remains a persistent challenge. Combined strategies, for example, nitrogen doping with lithium decoration, further improve gravimetric capacity and adsorption reversibility. AIMD simulations reveal that thermal stability and desorption dynamics strongly depend on material configuration and temperature. By positioning graphene as a model carbon platform, the review highlights how computational modeling can guide the design of high-performance hydrogen storage materials and identifies dual-functionalized graphene systems as particularly promising candidates for future applications.

Progress in the application of carbon nanotubes for wastewater treatment: a bibliometric analysis

Arya Adarsh Kumar , Kapoor Ashish , de Jesus Pacheco Diego Augusto and 4 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.617~641 | number of Cited : 0

The global decline in access to safe and potable water is a growing social concern with increasing relevance projected to escalate in the coming decades. Different techniques for purifying water have been developed and tested to address this issue. More recently, there has been a technological trend in adopting carbon nanotube (CNT) technology for wastewater treatment. However, due to the immature state of research in the area, several aspects remain. In response to these challenges, this study conducts a bibliometric analysis to assess the current knowledge regarding the utilization and advancement of CNTs in wastewater treatment. The study utilised various software applications to map the relevant literature published between 2013 and 2023, encompassing 699 scholarly articles that underwent content analysis. The findings revealed how the knowledge on the topic is organized, highlighting key collaboration patterns among authors, institutions, and journals. They also identified the most influential authors, providing valuable insights into the networks and dynamics that shape research progress in this area. The research findings also reveal the primary technological trends in utilizing CNTs for water treatment and the challenges that hinder their practical application. To guide advancements in this field, the article contributes to indicating future research avenues systematically organized into three critical categories: (i) investigations targeting the most frequently identified literature gaps, (ii) studies focusing on process optimization and operational efficiencies, and (iii) exploration of emerging technologies and evolving trends. This structured approach provides a clear roadmap for overcoming existing barriers and unlocking the full potential of CNTs in wastewater treatment applications. This article can serve as a reference for subsequent technological investigations.

Progress in three-dimensional graphene oxide frameworks: tailored synthesis, functional properties, and emerging applications

Elsayed Mohamed Hammad , Alshanqiti Emtenan Almukhtar , Qaraah Fahim A. and 3 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.643~665 | number of Cited : 0

Recent advances in synthesis strategies and electrocatalytic applications of single−atom catalysts

Chen Liang , Zeng Qing , Peng Yun and 6 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.667~695 | number of Cited : 0

Linear negative temperature coefficient effect exhibited by highly flexible thermosensitive film from N-Doped rGO/TPU composites

Min Jun , Zhu Jianpeng , Gao Junlu and 4 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.697~704 | number of Cited : 0

Electron transport channel-mediated Z-type α-MnO2/Cd1.7In2S4.7 heterojunction for photocatalytic conversion of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5-dicarbonylfuran

Liang Yuwei , Huang Yufan , Hu Chunling and 6 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.705~719 | number of Cited : 0

Unveiling the synergy of B, S dopants in graphene for enhancing electrochemical sensing performance

Kaur Amanpreet , Pandey O. P. , Brar Loveleen Kaur | 2026, 36(2) | pp.721~737 | number of Cited : 0

MXene/silicone rubber decorated nylon multifunctional protective material with excellent waterproofing, electromagnetic shielding, bulletproof and photothermal conversion performance

Chen Jing , Yao Xinyu , Yu Xinming and 2 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.739~751 | number of Cited : 0

Interface and dimensionality driven engineering of carrier transport and phonon dynamics in MoS2/MWCNT nanocomposites

John Simon Sajan , Peer Mohamed Jibri Khaja , Rengarajan Abinaya and 2 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.753~765 | number of Cited : 0

Evolution of nitrogen functionalities in PAN-based carbon fiber during KOH activation to understand the formation of pore structure

John Simon Sajan , Lee Sora , May Zaw Win and 3 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.767~780 | number of Cited : 0

Tetracycline degradation and hydrogen production over an interface-engineered double S-Scheme g-C3N4/TiO2 heterojunction photocatalyst

An Mingze , Yang Zhao , Zhang Bingbing and 6 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.781~804 | number of Cited : 0

To overcome the limitations of single-component photocatalytic materials, including low carrier separation efficiency, narrow light absorption range, and limited functionality, this study utilized precise interface engineering to construct a double S-scheme g-C3N4/TiO2 (CNT550) heterojunction composite photocatalyst through a two-step hydrothermal and high-temperature calcination approach. Characterization techniques such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT–IR), and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR–TEM) verified the formation of intimate interfacial contact between g-C3N4 and both anatase and rutile phases of TiO2. This interfacial structure effectively promotes the separation and migration of photogenerated charge carriers. The dual-functional performance of the material was systematically evaluated for photocatalytic tetracycline (TC) degradation and hydrogen evolution via water splitting. Results demonstrated that under ultraviolet, visible, and simulated sunlight irradiation for 150 min, 300 min, and 300 min, respectively, CNT550 achieved TC degradation rates of 99.6%, 88.0%, and 82.9%, representing significant enhancement compared to g-C3N4 and TiO2. Meanwhile, the hydrogen evolution rate of CNT550 reached 447.8 µmol·h− 1·g− 1, which is 3.25 times and 3.58 times higher than that of g-C3N4 and TiO2, respectively. Furthermore, advanced characterization techniques including in situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM), and surface photovoltage spectroscopy (SPV), combined with density functional theory (DFT) calculations, systematically confirmed that the charge transfer and separation in the CNT550 composite follow a double S-scheme mechanism. Mechanism analysis further reveals that the double S-scheme heterojunction not only broadens the light absorption range but also enables efficient interfacial charge transfer and rapid separation of photogenerated carriers, which serves as the key factor contributing to the significantly enhanced photocatalytic activity. This work provides valuable insights and guidance for designing high-performance bifunctional photocatalytic materials. This study provides important theoretical guidance and practical pathways for the design of highly efficient double S-scheme heterojunction photocatalysts, offering valuable insights for the development of high-performance bifunctional photocatalytic materials.

Preparation and properties of NFG-based composites synergistically regulated by MCMB and SG

Liu Mingmin , WU Haihua , Gong Liang and 8 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.805~822 | number of Cited : 0

Sustainable ibuprofen degradation using eco-friendly CQDs/TiO2 nanocomposites from banana peels waste

Utami Maisari , Sholidhyawati Is , Musawwa Muhammad Miqdam and 5 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.823~839 | number of Cited : 0

Rational construction of graphdiyne-based ohmic junctions to promote visible-light hydrogen evolution through interfacial charge transfer dynamics

Zheng Mingxia , Wang YuYu , Xu Jing and 1 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.841~854 | number of Cited : 0

Band-gap engineering and giant anisotropic conduction in 2D carbon allotrope nanoribbons

Reis Francenildo Baia , Del Nero Jordan | 2026, 36(2) | pp.855~872 | number of Cited : 0

Characterization and kinetic analysis of acid leaching of low carbon fraction in coal gasification slag

Li Yu , Wang Ruifeng , Chai Yifan and 3 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.873~883 | number of Cited : 0

Coal gasification slag (CGS), a byproduct of coal chemical processes, can be repurposed as functional materials through acid treatment to remove impurities such as Al, Ca, and Fe.This study investigates the acid-leaching behavior of these impurities by examining the slag’s mineralogical structure and elemental distribution. The process involved initial carbon-ash separation via physical sieving (0.85 mm), yielding a low-carbon slag (L-CS) with < 3% carbon content and a 48.33% yield, characterized by dense, lamellar aluminosilicate glass with uniformly dispersed and encapsulated Ca and Fe. The L-CS was subjected to heat treatment at varying temperatures, followed by hydrochloric acid leaching. Results revealed that heat treatment broke and rearranged the original Si-O-Si(Al) bonds, partially converting [AlO4] structural units into more stable [AlO6] and leading to the sequential formation of magnetite and esseneite phases. This structural reorganization significantly reduced the leaching rates of Al, Ca, and Fe. Kinetic analysis demonstrated that the leaching of Fe and Ca was governed by a combination of internal diffusion and interfacial chemical reactions, whereas Al leaching was controlled solely by interfacial reactions. The Ca and Fe components were leached more readily than Al. Under optimized conditions (70 °C, 180 min, 8% HCl, liquid-to-solid ratio 8:1), the leaching rates reached 74.17% for Al, 90.01% for Ca, and 83.34% for Fe. The acid-leached residue primarily retained amorphous aluminosilicate phases with minor quartz, exhibiting a more ordered structure than the precursor. Morphologically, the original dense structure was disrupted, forming fractured surfaces composed of 40–60 nm nanospheres. The residue possessed a specific surface area of 101.44 m²/g and an average pore diameter of 5.734 nm. These findings indicate that the acid-leached CGS residue has significant potential for direct application as a mesoporous adsorbent material or for uses requiring enhanced reactivity.

Metal-functionalized BCN nanocages for Cl2, COCl2, H2S, and NH3 detection: a DFT study on sensing efficiency, humidity effects, and thermal stability

Jethawa Unnati , Chaudhari Ajay | 2026, 36(2) | pp.885~905 | number of Cited : 0

Nitrogen-doped defect-induced dipolar polarisation in CNZF/NrGO/MWCNT nanocomposites for X & Ku-band microwave absorption

Anil Pasupuleti , Arun B. , Saidulu Banothu and 2 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.907~935 | number of Cited : 0

Prediction of mechanical properties in graphene-reinforced aluminum nanocomposites using machine learning and molecular dynamics simulations

Ramdas Prasanna Venkatesh , Ganapathy Venkatesan , Palanivel Anand and 1 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.937~956 | number of Cited : 0

Tribological behavior and mechanism of polyamide particles in urea-based grease at different temperatures

Li Chuan , Zhang Wenqi , Fang Zhilin and 6 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.957~970 | number of Cited : 0

Construction of FeCo@N-CNTs heterojunction structures for efficient electrocatalytic cathodic nitrate reduction coupled with anodic HPAM oxidation reactions

Qi Lijie , Liu Shujun , Fu Yu | 2026, 36(2) | pp.971~981 | number of Cited : 0

Facile and scalable thick electrode using bifunctional carbon nanotube film

Çakmakçı Lee Nilüfer , Shin Myunggyu , Bang Junki and 5 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.983~995 | number of Cited : 0

Efficient covalent functionalization of multi-walled carbon nanotubes in a flow reactor

Kang Taehoon , Park Chae Yeon , Cho Wonho and 3 other persons | 2026, 36(2) | pp.997~1006 | number of Cited : 0

KJCKorea
Journal Central

Carbon Letters 2025 KCI Impact Factor : 0.73 KCI-WoS Impact Factor : 6.26

2026, Vol.36, No.2