Chemistry articles from across Nature Portfolio

Metal/MXene composites are a combination of metals with highly conductive MXenes that results in an enhanced functionality in energy storage, catalysis, and biomedical applications. However, controlling metal deposition into uniform patterns has been challenging, which impacts their performance. A novel in situ reduction strategy now overcomes these challenges, offering unparalleled ability to control metal size and deposition.

Microbial growth at depths of 200–500 metres has been found to be limited by iron, a key micronutrient. To meet their iron requirement, bacteria inhabiting the twilight zone manufacture siderophores — molecules that scavenge trace amounts of iron from seawater.

One electron σ-bonds were first proposed in 1931 but most discussion since then has been at a theoretical level. The first experimentally observed single-electron C–C bond both advances our fundamental understanding of bonding and provides the basis of an approach to creating a new class of molecules.

Our recent studies on the anionic polymerization achieved using flow microreactors are reviewed. Using flow microreactors, with features such as precise temperature control, rapid mixing, and precise time control, otherwise impossible polymer synthesis reactions can occur. Some typical examples synthesizing polymers with reactive functional groups and heterotelechelic polymers are described. This review also highlights the in-line analyses of the polymer living end, helping a deeper insights of the reaction and its conditions. The continuous operation of the flow microreactors demonstrated their potential for industrial applications.

Heavier group 14 carbene analogue display remarkable capability for small molecule activation but their application in redox catalysis remains elusive. Here, the authors report the synthesis and isolation of a stannylene with carbodiphosphorane ligand and characterize its catalytic activity in the hydrodefluorination reaction of fluoroarenes.

To achieve sustainable resource circulation, preparation of reactive species from stable compounds is needed, and chlorine chemistry is an eco-friendly approach to address this need. Here, the authors provide an overview of the synthesis of fine chemicals and polymers using chlorine chemistry, with emphasis with regards to sustainability.

The intermolecular interactions between polystyrene (PS) and d-limonene were comprehensively studied utilizing both light-scattering experiments and computational simulations. From analyses of the mean-square radius of gyration 〈S²ã€‰ and second virial coefficient A₂ for PS in d-limonene determined by the light-scattering experiments, d-limonene was confirmed as a medium solvent with intermediate solvent quality between good solvents like toluene and poor solvents like cyclohexane for PS. The intermolecular interaction energy between repeat unit of PS and d-limonene, which was obtained from the computational simulations, supported the estimated solvent quality for PS.

The combination of mechanochemical and photochemical approaches is often hindered by the limited transparency of reaction vessels. Now, a mechano-photoexcitation strategy is reported using mechanoluminescent materials as internal photon sources activated by mechanical energy. This approach enables solvent-free photochemical reactions, as demonstrated in Hofmann–Löffler–Freytag and sulfonylation reactions.

Transition metal carbides exhibit outstanding performance in the selective hydrogenation of acetylene, but carburizing Pd-based intermetallic compounds has been challenging. Here, the authors present a successful synthesis of Pd₃ZnC_x intermetallic carbide for selective hydrogenation of acetylene through a one-step co-infiltration of zinc and carbon using syngas.

Metal/MXene composites are a combination of metals with highly conductive MXenes that results in an enhanced functionality in energy storage, catalysis, and biomedical applications. However, controlling metal deposition into uniform patterns has been challenging, which impacts their performance. A novel in situ reduction strategy now overcomes these challenges, offering unparalleled ability to control metal size and deposition.

With technical advances and enthusiasm from policymakers, advocates say the time for next-generation geothermal has come.

Through the collaboration of two members of the ACS Committee on Chemists with Disabilities, a prototype Braille periodic table has been created. This project is part of a wider goal of making chemistry accessible to all.

Microbial growth at depths of 200–500 metres has been found to be limited by iron, a key micronutrient. To meet their iron requirement, bacteria inhabiting the twilight zone manufacture siderophores — molecules that scavenge trace amounts of iron from seawater.

Mechanical engineer Legena Henry converts sargassum and rum-distillery waste water to produce sustainable natural gas for vehicles.

Research on the Li₇La₃Zr₂O₁₂ (LLZO)/Li interface is essential for improving the performance of LLZO-based solid-state batteries. In this comment, the authors present an analysis of the key interfacial phenomena at the LLZO/Li interface, highlighting recent developments and unresolved issues.