In a feature article published in SCIENCE CHINA Chemistry, Ming Gong’s group summarized their latest progresses in exploring the effects of ions on electrocatalytic reactions, outlined the current challenges and opportunities in the study of ion effects, and provided insights into future research directions.

In a paper published in SCIENCE CHINA Chemistry, a strategy of ligand-protected direct hydrogen reduction was adapted to prepare zeolite-confined Pt-Pd bimetallic cluster catalysts. These catalysts efficiently catalyze hydrogen production from ammonia borane (AB) solvolysis and tandem hydrogenation of nitroarenes. Interestingly, in the tandem reaction, AB undergoes hydrolysis at the Pt sites to produce active hydrogen species, which are then transferred to the neighboring Pd sites to reduce nitroarenes.

Electrochemically or chemically in-situ interfacial protection layers have very good self-adaption features for stability and reversibility of Zn anodes, which can also be well matched to current battery manufacturing. However, the in-situ interfacial strategies are far from the practical design for effective Zn anodes. In a paper published in Science Bulletin, researchers conducted a comprehensive analysis. They covered the protective mechanisms, advancements, methodologies, and future prospects related to electrochemical or chemical in-situ interface protective layers for aqueous Zn metal batteries.

The COVID-19 pandemic has taught us all the importance of educating the public about viral infections. Besides educating the general public, we need to equip the next generation of scientists by bringing viral education into the classroom. Now, researchers from the Tokyo University of Science have filmed the ‘giant’ virus Mimivirus in the process of infecting a cell, creating a fascinating film that can help educators teach biology in a more engaging manner.