image: This schematic illustrates the comprehensive and integrative framework presented in the review, connecting the fundamental physical principles of the Chiral Induced Spin Selectivity (CISS) effect (spin-orbit coupling, spin filtering), the advanced techniques for characterizing both chiral structures and spin polarization (e.g., CD, STEM, mc-AFM), and the resulting functional prospects in energy conversion, catalysis, and spintronics. By systematically bridging theory, experiment, and application, this work provides a definitive resource for unlocking the interdisciplinary potential of chiral nanomaterials.
Credit: ©Science China Press
Chirality, the geometric property of mirror-image asymmetry, is not only fundamental to life but is now unlocking new frontiers in nanotechnology. In a landmark review published in SCIENCE CHINA Chemistry, researchers from Shanghai Jiao Tong University present a unified framework for understanding the Chiral Induced Spin Selectivity effect in chiral nanomaterials. The CISS effect allows chiral structures to filter electron spins based on their handedness, enabling spin control without magnetic fields.
The review systematically elucidates the quantum principles behind CISS, including spin-orbit coupling, spin filtering, and spin blockade. It further surveys state-of-the-art techniques for characterizing chiral structures and spin polarization, such as circular dichroism, electron microscopy, and magnetic conductive atomic force microscopy.
“The CISS effect bridges chirality and spin physics, offering a new paradigm for designing functional materials,” said Professor Lin Yao, the corresponding author. “This has profound implications for spin-based electronics and catalytic systems.”
Applications highlighted include spin valves, spin-LEDs, and Hall sensors for spintronics, as well as enhanced oxygen evolution, hydrogen evolution, and CO₂ reduction reactions in electrocatalysis. Chiral nanomaterials also improve charge separation and light-harvesting in photocatalysis.
Despite progress, challenges remain in precise synthesis, mechanistic understanding under dynamic conditions, and standardized characterization. The authors call for interdisciplinary efforts to advance these materials toward real-world applications in sustainable energy and quantum technologies.