Mohammad Nur-E-Alam , Md Saiful Islam , Tarek Abedin , Mohammad Aminul Islam , Boon Kar Yap , Tiong Sieh Kiong , Narottam Das , Md Rezaur Rahman , Mayeen Uddin Khandaker
{"title":"Current scenario and future trends on stability issues of perovskite solar cells: A mini review","authors":"Mohammad Nur-E-Alam , Md Saiful Islam , Tarek Abedin , Mohammad Aminul Islam , Boon Kar Yap , Tiong Sieh Kiong , Narottam Das , Md Rezaur Rahman , Mayeen Uddin Khandaker","doi":"10.1016/j.cocis.2025.101895","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cocis.2025.101895","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are considered a new paradigm in photovoltaic energy technology due to their extraordinary power conversion capabilities. However, their commercialization is hindered by stability issues. The current understanding of PSC degradation mechanisms focuses on factors such as moisture, oxygen, light, temperature, and electrical bias are comprehensively analyzed in this review article. The essential encapsulation strategies require further refinement for long-standing stability. Material engineering, including compositional tuning and defect passivation, has shown promise in enhancing intrinsic perovskite stability. Interface tuning between the perovskite layer and charge transport materials (hole and electron transport layers) is crucial for suppressing ion migration and charge recombination. Additionally, the advanced characterization techniques offer to dive into the degradation pathways, enabling targeted stability improvements. Despite substantial progress in obtaining higher efficiency in PSCs, it is still challenging to achieve the expected stability in PSCs. The development of novel perovskite materials with enhanced structural stability, improved encapsulation strategies, and an understanding of degradation mechanisms at the molecular level should be the imminent research focus with the development of accelerated testing methodologies and field trials essential for evaluating long-standing performance. PSCs will be a major contributor to renewable energy generation once the stability issues with their structure are erased.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":293,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science","volume":"76 ","pages":"Article 101895"},"PeriodicalIF":7.9,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143160025","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Linear viscoelasticity of physically aging soft glassy (Thixotropic) materials","authors":"Yogesh M. Joshi","doi":"10.1016/j.cocis.2025.101896","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cocis.2025.101896","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Soft glassy materials are distinguished by their arrested microstructures and out-of-equilibrium thermodynamic states. These materials exhibit time dependent evolution of viscoelastic properties, driven by structural buildup under quiescent conditions, known as physical aging. As a result, they do not obey the standard linear viscoelastic framework, which is well-established for equilibrium materials. This article explores the application of linear viscoelastic principles to soft glassy materials by employing the effective time theory that readjusts the material clock to address the time dependence associated with the same. We explore how the effective time domain approach validates key linear viscoelastic principles, including the Boltzmann superposition principle, convolution relation, time–temperature superposition, time–stress superposition, and the Fourier transform relationship between relaxation modulus and complex modulus. We also discuss the relationship between soft glassy materials and thixotropy. These insights highlight the critical role of effective time in comprehending the intricate rheological characteristics of soft glassy materials.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":293,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science","volume":"76 ","pages":"Article 101896"},"PeriodicalIF":7.9,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143228698","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Self-assembly of magnetic colloids under unsteady fields","authors":"G. Camacho, J.R. Morillas, J. de Vicente","doi":"10.1016/j.cocis.2025.101903","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cocis.2025.101903","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The use of magnetic fields offers an external, versatile way of controlling self-assembly of colloids. This review provides an exhaustive overview of unsteady fields that can vary in one, two, or three dimensions of space, as a powerful tool to direct the self-assembly of magnetic colloids into structures with tunable properties. Unlike steady fields, unsteady (nonstationary) fields can overcome the limitations of classical dipolar interactions, leading to a much wider range of structures, ranging from dense crystalline aggregates to 3D spanning networks, or dynamic clusters. The ability to precisely control the amplitude, frequency, and field direction allows for fine-tuning the interplay of interparticle forces, resulting in controllable assembly pathways. This review analyzes how different types of unsteady fields influence the morphology and dynamics of the self-assembled structures. Key parameters, such as the Mason number, are discussed to characterize the governing driving forces, and potential applications are highlighted.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":293,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science","volume":"76 ","pages":"Article 101903"},"PeriodicalIF":7.9,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143437115","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Polymer – surfactant interactions and compatibility for ionic surfactants combined with hydrophilic polymers: Stability and miscibility vs. segregative or associative phase separation and deposition","authors":"Tobias Halthur , Jonas Carlstedt","doi":"10.1016/j.cocis.2024.101894","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cocis.2024.101894","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The phase behavior of aqueous mixtures of polymers and surfactants has been widely studied over the past thirty years. Not only for the academic interest in the richness in the structures formed, but also for the potential this combination holds in a number of different applications, ranging from cleaning products and cosmetics to pharmaceuticals and oil recovery. However, when developing these products, it is essential to know when the species are miscible, when the aim might be to build viscosity, or how to trigger associative phase separation, as for deposition of coacervates in care shampoos. The phase behavior is not only determined by the choice of the polymer and surfactant, but also to a large extent affected by additions of co-surfactants and salt, which will be discussed in this review. Additional aspects to be considered for less-studied, more natural and sustainable polymers and surfactants will also be presented.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":293,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science","volume":"76 ","pages":"Article 101894"},"PeriodicalIF":7.9,"publicationDate":"2025-04-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143160026","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Synergistic effect of limestone and supplementary cementitious materials in ternary blended cements","authors":"Luca Campagiorni, Monica Tonelli, Francesca Ridi","doi":"10.1016/j.cocis.2024.101885","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cocis.2024.101885","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This review offers an introductory examination of the challenges involved in formulating limestone-based ternary blended cements intended for both specialists and nonexperts in cement chemistry. The environmental impact of cement production and the raising awareness on climate changes has led to a progressive shift toward sustainable practices, emphasizing the critical need for eco-friendly construction materials. Here, the motivation for adopting ternary blends is explored, with a particular focus on supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) otherwise classified as wastes, such as ground granulated blast-furnace slag, silica fume, fly ash, and metakaolin, which contribute to sustainability improvements. To facilitate understanding, a glossary of technical terms is provided alongside an overview of the cement hydration process and the distinct characteristics of various SCMs.</div><div>The review focuses on the performance of binary and ternary cement blends, giving particular consideration to the synergistic effects observed when limestone is combined with SCMs in ternary formulations. Key properties of specific ternary blends are highlighted, unraveling their potential to enhance both performance and environmental sustainability. Finally, the review provides a perspective for future developments, reflecting on the broader implications of these materials for promoting sustainable construction practices within the industry.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":293,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science","volume":"75 ","pages":"Article 101885"},"PeriodicalIF":7.9,"publicationDate":"2025-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143104790","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Hernán A. Ritacco, Marcos Fernández Leyes, Jhon Sánchez Morales
{"title":"Dynamic surface tension of polymer–surfactant mixtures at water–gas interfaces","authors":"Hernán A. Ritacco, Marcos Fernández Leyes, Jhon Sánchez Morales","doi":"10.1016/j.cocis.2024.101877","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cocis.2024.101877","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Mixtures of polymers and surfactants in water are versatile systems used in formulating foams across a spectrum of industries, including food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and oil, among others. The kinetic mechanisms governing the transfer of surfactant (S) and polymer (P) molecules, as well as their complexes (PS), from bulk to the interface, are pivotal in both the production and stabilization of aqueous foams. Despite its critical role, dynamic surface tension of PS mixtures remains relatively underexplored. This article aims to critically review the literature regarding our current understanding of the adsorption dynamics of polymer–surfactant mixtures at the air–solution interface. Special emphasis will be placed on the kinetics of adsorption during short, far-from-equilibrium times, which are crucial in determining the foamability of a system. The article will highlight the significance of P–S interactions and dynamics in the bulk for a comprehensive understanding of the adsorption dynamics at fluid interfaces.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":293,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science","volume":"75 ","pages":"Article 101877"},"PeriodicalIF":7.9,"publicationDate":"2025-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143135837","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Development of amino acid-based surfactants: from synthesis to applications","authors":"Krister Holmberg, Frida Bilén, Romain Bordes","doi":"10.1016/j.cocis.2024.101884","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cocis.2024.101884","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>The diversity of both natural and non-natural amino acids provides a strong foundation for the synthesis of a wide array of surfactants and offers the possibility to control the interactions at interfaces and within self-assembly processes.</div><div>This review provides an overview of the latest developments of amino acid-based surfactant over the past decade, with a particular focus on the past five years. A detailed overview of the synthesis is first given, and physicochemical properties of surfactants derived from both standard amino acids, and non-natural amino acids are discussed. From enhancing foaming to controlling rheological properties, these surfactants meet a wide range of application-specific requirements. This is illustrated in various fields, such as drug delivery or mineral ore flotation.</div><div>Although single amino acid derivatives have been deeply explored, surfactants based on multiple amino acids are also discussed for the new possibilities in self-assembly and potential various applications they offer.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":293,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science","volume":"75 ","pages":"Article 101884"},"PeriodicalIF":7.9,"publicationDate":"2025-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143104791","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Davide Orsi , Valentina Lorusso , Marco Vaccari, Luigi Cristofolini
{"title":"Diffusing wave spectroscopy for the study of emulsions on-ground and in microgravity","authors":"Davide Orsi , Valentina Lorusso , Marco Vaccari, Luigi Cristofolini","doi":"10.1016/j.cocis.2024.101892","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cocis.2024.101892","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>We review the approaches, both experimental and modelling, and the main results obtained recently in the investigation of emulsions by diffusing wave spectroscopy (DWS). DWS is a correlation spectroscopy based on the analysis of the time structure of the scattered light emerging from a laser-illuminated opaque sample. Such a noninvasive technique is well suited to the investigation of drop size distribution and drop dynamic in emulsions. This dynamic determines the evolution, and finally the fate, of emulsions. The results obtained in a laboratory are complemented by the very recent results obtained in microgravity (the condition of absence of weight obtained in orbit) onboard the International Space Station: mastering emulsions in such exotic conditions not only offers new insight into the basic physical phenomena but may also provide new enabling technologies to ensure comfortable living environments and safe foods to the astronauts engaged in long space flights.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":293,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science","volume":"75 ","pages":"Article 101892"},"PeriodicalIF":7.9,"publicationDate":"2025-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143095934","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Liposomes: Bridging the gap from lab to pharmaceuticals","authors":"Remo Eugster, Paola Luciani","doi":"10.1016/j.cocis.2024.101875","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cocis.2024.101875","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>Liposomes are versatile and effective drug delivery systems, as highlighted by various medical applications. Their well-defined bilayer structure is suited for the encapsulation of drugs with diverse chemical properties and for a variety of release strategies. Understanding liposome self-assembly and structure is crucial for enhancing drug development and delivery efficiency. Herein, we review the self-assembly process of liposomes and transfer this knowledge to means of production. The challenges and opportunities of scaling liposomal production are discussed. Key techniques, to characterize the particles, their interface and composition, essential for market approval, are outlined. Views on novel computational methods to deepen the lipid behavior at interfaces and accelerate liposome development are given, including opinions on using artificial intelligence to support liposome production.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":293,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science","volume":"75 ","pages":"Article 101875"},"PeriodicalIF":7.9,"publicationDate":"2025-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143104793","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
{"title":"Driving the future of cosmetics, fragrances, and foods with COSMO-RS. Part 1—Bibliometric analysis and introductory framework","authors":"Théophile Gaudin , Jean-Marie Aubry","doi":"10.1016/j.cocis.2024.101874","DOIUrl":"10.1016/j.cocis.2024.101874","url":null,"abstract":"<div><div>This two-part review offers an in-depth survey of the utilization of the theoretical method COnductor-like Screening MOdel for Realistic Solvation (COSMO-RS) in the formulation of cosmetics, fragrances, and foods. In this first part, a bibliometric analysis and mapping of scientific literature and patents are performed. They reveal that COSMO-RS primarily serves as a screening tool for generating quantitative predictions regarding the solubilization, volatility, and extraction of formulation ingredients from biomass. This analysis also identifies the most relevant COSMO-RS applications and tools available for formulation. They are presented in a concise and accessible manner for formulators and specialty chemists involved in ingredient design. Finally, a focus is made on the applications of COSMO-RS in designing and modeling innovative and sustainable solvents, such as ionic liquids and (natural) deep eutectic solvents. The second part of the article will address the practical implementation of COSMO-RS in solving key formulation challenges.</div></div>","PeriodicalId":293,"journal":{"name":"Current Opinion in Colloid & Interface Science","volume":"75 ","pages":"Article 101874"},"PeriodicalIF":7.9,"publicationDate":"2025-02-01","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143104795","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":2,"RegionCategory":"化学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}