Multilayer ceramic batteries (MLCBs) have attracted increasing attention as compact all-solid-state energy-storage devices that can be manufactured using multilayer ceramic processing technologies. In this study, an MLCC-compatible fabrication process for oxide-based MLCBs was developed using Li₁₊ₓAlₓTi₂₋ₓ(PO₄)₃ (LATP) solid electrolytes, Li₃V₂(PO₄)₃ (LVP) cathodes, and Cu current collectors. Commercial LATP powders were evaluated in terms of particle-size distribution, phase purity, thermal stability, and ionic conductivity. The selected LATP powder was subsequently employed for tape-cast green-sheet fabrication, and the effects of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) binder content on slurry rheology and sheet microstructure were investigated. An optimized binder composition containing 11 wt% PVB (BM-2/BH-3 = 3:7) provided improved processability and microstructural uniformity. Drying conditions during sequential electrode printing were also optimized to suppress sheet warpage and improve multilayer registration. Thermogravimetric and differential thermal analyses (TG–DTA) were used to establish an optimized two-step debinding and co-firing process under a controlled reducing atmosphere. The resulting multilayer structures exhibited uniform densification without significant blistering, delamination, or interfacial defects. Charge–discharge measurements confirmed that electrochemical functionality was retained after the complete manufacturing process, yielding a discharge capacity of approximately 2.5–2.7 μAh.

In this study, we systematically investigated the effects of thermal atomic layer deposition (ALD) conditions on the electrical characteristics of conductive-filament-based volatile threshold switching memristors with a Pt/Al₂O₃/Ag structure. Although volatile threshold switching memristors have attracted significant attention for neuromorphic computing applications such as spiking neural networks, the impact of dielectric deposition conditions on their switching behavior remains relatively unexplored. The number of ALD cycles was varied from 40 to 200, and the deposition temperature was varied from 50 to 250°C to evaluate their effects on threshold voltage (V_th), off-state resistance (R_off), and device yield. Devices fabricated using 75–150 ALD cycles showed clear volatile threshold switching behavior with relatively high device yield, whereas excessively low or high cycle numbers resulted in short-type and open-type failures, respectively. In addition, V_th and R_off tended to increase at higher deposition temperatures, while the device yield significantly degraded above 150°C. These results indicate that the number of ALD cycles and the deposition temperature define a critical process window for achieving volatile threshold switching while suppressing both short-type and open-type failures. This study provides practical guidelines for optimizing dielectric ALD conditions in conductive-filament-based volatile threshold switching memristors for future neuromorphic hardware applications.

The effects of BaZrO₃ addition on the structural and electrical properties of BaTiO₃-based base-metal-electrode (BME) multilayer ceramic capacitor (MLCC) ceramics were investigated. Dielectric compositions containing 0–9 wt% BaZrO₃ were fabricated using a conventional MLCC process, and their crystal structure, dielectric behavior, temperature stability, frequency stability, and insulation resistance were evaluated. X-ray diffraction and Rietveld refinement confirmed the formation of a single-phase perovskite structure for all compositions. Increasing BaZrO₃ content resulted in a systematic shift of diffraction peaks toward lower angles and an increase in unit-cell volume from 64.61 to 66.05 ų, indicating successful Zr incorporation into the BaTiO₃ lattice. The dielectric permittivity increased with BaZrO₃ addition and reached a maximum value of approximately 2,110 at 6 wt%, while dielectric loss decreased significantly. Capacitance stability against temperature and frequency variations was markedly improved with increasing BaZrO₃ content. In addition, insulation resistance increased substantially over the investigated temperature range, demonstrating enhanced electrical reliability.

Smart windows capable of dynamically controlling light transmission are gaining increasing attention as a means of reducing building energy consumption while improving indoor comfort. However, indium tin oxide (ITO), the most widely used transparent electrode in such devices, suffers from poor mechanical flexibility due to its intrinsic brittleness, limiting its use in curved or flexible window applications. Here, we demonstrate a flexible ITO/DPP hybrid transparent electrode, fabricated by depositing a dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)-doped PEDOT:PSS (DPP) layer on ITO, that achieves markedly improved bending durability while maintaining electro-optical performance comparable to bare ITO. The hybrid electrode with an optimized DPP thickness of 120 nm exhibited a sheet resistance of 23.3 Ω/sq., about 20% lower than that of ITO (29 Ω/sq.), while maintaining comparable visible-range transmittance. A polymer-dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) device fabricated with this electrode showed only a slight decline in driving voltage and transmittance relative to ITO. Notably, its resistance change under repeated bending at a curvature radius of 30 mm was only 25.1%, less than half that of ITO (51.6%). These results suggest that the ITO/DPP hybrid electrode is a promising candidate for transparent electrodes in curved and flexible smart windows and other flexible optoelectronic devices.

We have studied the thermal stability of NCM622 cathode material for Li-ion batteries using real-time synchrotron x-ray scattering below 600°C in both air and vacuum. The expansion of the mean particle size, which reached maximum values of 10.3 μm in air and 10.6 μm in vacuum at 200°C, was attributed to the dehydration of intergranular water within the NCM622 powders. Across all annealing temperatures, the amount of crystal NCM622 phase in air was consistently higher than that in vacuum. The crystal domain sizes in air showed less variation than that in vacuum during annealing from RT to 500°C. These indicate that the crystal NCM622 phase is more thermally stable during annealing in air than in vacuum. This stability is attributed to the presence of 21% oxygen in air, which is absent under vacuum conditions.

Wearable temperature sensors are becoming increasingly important for continuous health monitoring, personalized healthcare, and biointegrated electronic systems. However, conventional temperature-sensing platforms often suffer from limited thermal sensitivity, insufficient mechanical compliance, and unstable performance under repeated deformation, making it difficult to detect subtle physiological temperature variations in real time. Here, this tutorial status report presents a fabrication strategy for highly sensitive wearable temperature sensors based on gold-doped crystalline silicon nanomembranes. Gold diffusion into crystalline silicon introduces deep-level impurity states that modulate the Fermi level and shift the freeze-out region toward the physiological temperature range, enabling an ultrahigh negative temperature coefficient of resistance. By integrating the gold-doped silicon nanomembrane with a polyimide-supported ultrathin platform, neutral mechanical plane design, and serpentine mesh interconnects, the resulting device can provide high thermal sensitivity, fast response, conformal skin attachment, and stable operation under mechanical deformation. This fabrication approach is expected to broaden the use of impurity-engineered silicon nanomembranes in next-generation wearable sensors, flexible bioelectronics, and multifunctional healthcare monitoring systems.

Quantum dots (QDs) are semiconductor nanocrystals with sizes on the order of several nanometers, whose bandgaps can be tuned by controlling the particle size. Owing to this bandgap tunability, QDs can absorb near-infrared (NIR) and short-wave infrared (SWIR) light, spectral regions that are difficult to access with conventional silicon-based devices. However, colloidal QDbased infrared photodetectors still suffer from intrinsically high dark current, trap-induced noise, and limited response speed. As a result, they exhibit fundamental performance gaps in terms of detectivity and speed–bandwidth product compared to epitaxial infrared detectors, highlighting the need for structural and architectural design strategies to overcome these limitations. In this review, we discuss recent advances in enhancing the spectral selectivity and sensitivity of infrared photodetectors through three-dimensional optical architectures, including metasurfaces and metamaterials. We focus in particular on design strategies and the underlying mechanisms responsible for performance enhancement, and we outline how structural approaches can be leveraged to effectively control the sensitivity and wavelength selectivity of QD-based infrared detectors.

Renewable energy harvesting technologies, which convert ambient resources such as wind into electrical energy, have attracted significant attention as sustainable power sources for self-powered systems. However, the long-term applicability of wind energy harvesters in remote or extreme environments has not yet been fully discussed, particularly in terms of structural robustness and environmental adaptability. In this study, we designed a double-clamped flutter-type triboelectric generator (DFTEG) for efficient wind energy harvesting and evaluated its output performance under various simulated outdoor conditions. The DFTEG features a modular acrylic frame with a magnet-based assembly for easy maintenance and film replacement, utilizing PTFE films and aluminum electrodes to maximize the charge density difference according to the triboelectric series. Structural optimization revealed that a single-film configuration with a length of 110 mm produced the most stable flutter vibration and a large effective contact area, achieving a maximum open-circuit voltage of 42.28 V and a short-circuit current of 2.89 μA. Furthermore, performance evaluations under various environmental variables, including relative humidity, temperature, and sand particles interference, confirmed consistent electrical output across diverse environmental conditions. These results demonstrate the potential of the proposed DFTEG as an environmentadaptive independent power source capable of stable operation under complex environmental factors.

Organic solar cells based on bulk heterojunction (BHJ) structures have attracted considerable attention because of their low fabrication cost, mechanical flexibility, and compatibility with solution-processing techniques. In BHJ organic photovoltaic devices, nanoscale morphology and crystallinity of the photoactive layer critically influence photovoltaic performance. In this study, the effects of solvent selection and thermal annealing on crystallization evolution and photovoltaic characteristics of P3HT:PCBM organic solar cells were systematically investigated. Three different solvents, including toluene, chlorobenzene (CB), and dichlorobenzene (DCB), were employed for active-layer fabrication, followed by post-thermal annealing treatment. UV–visible absorption spectroscopy revealed solvent-dependent differences in molecular ordering and intermolecular π–π interactions within the active layer. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed that thermal annealing significantly enhanced crystallinity and lamellar ordering of P3HT domains, particularly for CB-processed films. Electrical characterization demonstrated that solvent evaporation behavior strongly affects photovoltaic performance. Among the investigated devices, the thermally annealed CB-processed device exhibited the highest power conversion efficiency of 1.83% with an enhanced short-circuit current density of 7.057 mA cm⁻². The improved device performance is attributed to optimized crystallization behavior and balanced nanoscale phase separation induced by the moderate evaporation characteristics of CB. In contrast, although DCB-assisted films exhibited relatively strong optical absorption and enhanced crystallinity, excessively slow solvent evaporation likely induced excessive aggregation and coarse phase separation, limiting efficient photovoltaic characteristics. These results demonstrate that solvent engineering combined with thermal annealing is an effective strategy for controlling morphology evolution and crystallization behavior in P3HT:PCBM bulk heterojunction solar cells.

This paper reviews the energy yield enhancement characteristics of bifacial photovoltaic systems combined with solar tracking, focusing on their performance relative to conventional monofacial fixed-tilt configurations. The fundamental mechanisms of yield improvement are summarized, highlighting the largely additive contributions of solar tracking, which increases front-side irradiance, and bifacial modules, which utilize rear-side reflected and diffuse radiation. Reported results from previous studies indicate that bifacial systems with single-axis tracking typically achieve 25–35% higher annual energy yield compared with standard monofacial fixed-tilt systems, with variations depending on environmental and design conditions. Key design and environmental considerations influencing system performance are discussed to provide practical insights for the application of bifacial tracking systems in utilityscale photovoltaic installations.

Metamaterials, as artificially engineered structures with unconventional mechanical and acoustic properties, have recently emerged as a transformative platform for enhancing the capabilities of triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) systems. Since the invention of TENG devices, extensive efforts have been devoted to improving charge density, output stability, and overall performance. Conventional performance optimization strategies mainly rely on device-level improvements such as surface chemistry modification, microstructuring, and nanopatterning. However, limited emphasis has been given to system-level development of smart self-powered intelligent systems. The integration of metamaterials into TENG devices opens a new era by enabling frequency-selective localization, mechanical impedance matching, and controllable deformation pathways. These engineered mechanical structures not only improve energy harvesting efficiency but also introduce new functionalities into the system. This review systematically summarizes recent advances in metamaterial-integrated TENG systems across four major application domains: (i) energy harvesting, (ii) acoustic telecommunication and acoustic-to-electric conversion, (iii) self-powered sensing, and (iv) vibration suppression and monitoring. Overall, the integration of metamaterials into TENG systems will pave the way for next-generation sustainable, intelligent, self-powered devices with diverse functionalities.

Citations

• Fabrication and performance of integrated self-powered PAAM hydrogel flexible pressure sensors
  Huaikuan Zang, Chao Hu, Pan Niu, Yong Zhang
  Materials Science in Semiconductor Processing.2026; 214: 110899.     CrossRef
• Highly Stretchable Multiphase Composite Piezoelectret With Large Longitudinal and Transverse Piezoelectric Sensitivity for Self-Powered Electromechanical Sensors
  Yanfeng Lyu, Tiantian Gao, Jian Li, Zheng Hu, Xunlin Qiu, Yanxun Xiang, Fu-Zhen Xuan, Wee Chen Gan, Dietmar Auhl
  IEEE Sensors Journal.2026; 26(18): 27090.     CrossRef

Lead-free bismuth sodium titanate (BNT)-based ceramics have attracted strong attention as environmentally benign dielectric materials for high-efficiency electrostatic energy-storage capacitors. A key challenge is that pristine BNT typically exhibits large hysteresis, high remnant polarization, and limited dielectric reliability, which restrict recoverable energy storage and efficiency under practical electric fields. Here, we present a focused mini-review of recent studies to clarify how composition design, phase boundary tuning, defect chemistry, and microstructural control collectively enable slim or pinched polarization-electric field (P-E) behavior and improved energy-storage functionality in BNT-related bulk ceramics. The reviewed outcomes consistently show that stabilizing relaxor states governed by polar nanoregions (PNRs), often via solid-solution engineering and secondary relaxor/antiferroelectric-like incorporation, suppresses irreversible switching and reduces hysteresis loss, while densification and grain-size control enhance electrical homogeneity and breakdown strength. In addition, defect-mediated tuning of oxygen vacancy-related complexes is highlighted as an independent lever to control relaxor ergodicity and polarization reversibility, providing a complementary route to slim-loop optimization. These insights are expected to guide integrated design strategies that couple phase/relaxor-state engineering with defect and microstructure optimization, accelerating the development of reliable, temperature-robust, lead-free dielectric capacitors based on BNT-related ceramics.

Citations

• Progress and outlook of dielectric energy storage characteristics of Lead–free (K,Na)NbO3 based bulk ceramics/composite films for capacitors
  Twinkle, Varun Kamboj, Chetna, Arun Kumar Singh, Gurpreet Singh, Sanjeev Kumar
  Current Opinion in Solid State and Materials Science.2026; 44: 101297.     CrossRef
• Structural Stability and Electromechanical Response of Lead-Free (Bi1/2Na1/2)TiO3‒SrTiO3 Ceramics Under A-Site Strontium Non-Stoichiometry
  Yubin Kang, Trang An Duong, Gwang-Hwi Jeong, Chang Won Ahn, Yong-Jai Kwon, Hyoung-Su Han
  Journal of Electrical and Electronic Materials.2026; 39(5): 549.     CrossRef

The recent rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) is creating new load characteristics in the distribution system, and in particular, the widespread use of single-phase charging methods is exacerbating phase load imbalances, leading to voltage unbalance issues. Such voltage imbalances can undermine the stability of the distribution system and may cause side effects such as reduced power quality and shortened equipment lifespan. This study proposes a smart distribution panel system that can detect voltage imbalance issues caused by uneven electric vehicle charging loads in real time and actively compensate for them. The proposed system aims to contribute to the stability and power quality improvement of the distribution network by integrating a load balancing algorithm with inter-phase voltage monitoring functionality.

The potential of replacing crosslinked polyethylene (XLPE) with an eco-friendly alternative, polypropylene (PP), as insulating material is investigated for overhead power distribution lines. Although XLPE exhibits excellent electrical and mechanical properties, the byproducts generated during crosslinking pose environmental challenges. PP is a viable alternative because of recyclability and absence of byproducts during crosslinking. This study evaluated alternating current (AC) breakdown strength, contact angle, and tracking resistance of two commercially available XLPE samples and three types of PP (PP1, PP2, PP3) with varying additive content. AC breakdown strength, analyzed using the Weibull distribution, facilitated relative comparison of insulation performance. PP2 exhibited scale parameters comparable to or exceeding those of XLPE. Contact angles exceeding 90° displayed hydrophobicity across all samples. To address pass/fail evaluation limitations, arcing images from tracking tests were analyzed using the box-counting method for fractal dimension analysis. Fractal dimensions increased with arcing extent, and complexity increased with test duration. Tracking resistance performance order was PP3, PP1, CC, PP2, OC which was attributed to enhanced heat dissipation properties of filler additives. The proposed quantitative method for comparing tracking resistance through fractal dimension analysis, explored the feasibility of using PP insulating materials in overhead power distribution lines.

Electrochemical water splitting has emerged as a pivotal technology for green hydrogen production, offering a viable pathway toward a sustainable energy future. Among various electrolysis systems, Anion exchange membrane water electrolysis is particularly noteworthy as a cost-effective solution capable of operating under the fluctuating power inputs typical of renewable energy sources. However, the overall efficiency of water splitting is fundamentally limited by the oxygen evolution reaction, which exhibits sluggish kinetics compared to the hydrogen evolution reaction. While IrO₂ and RuO₂ serve as current benchmarks, their scarcity and high cost necessitate the development of earth-abundant alternatives. This review provides a comprehensive overview of fundamental OER mechanisms including the adsorbate evolution mechanism, lattice oxygen mechanism, and oxide path mechanism while highlighting how new pathways can circumvent traditional scaling relations. We discuss recent advancements in transition metal-based electrocatalysts, encompassing oxides, hydroxides, chalcogenides, phosphides, nitrides, and carbides, with a focus on innovative design strategies such as defect engineering, heteroatom doping, and heterostructure construction. This paper concludes by addressing current challenges and offering perspectives on future directions for the development of highly efficient and economically viable oxygen evolution electrocatalysts for large-scale applications.

MoS₂ has attracted significant attention as a next-generation semiconductor material to overcome the physical scaling limits of silicon-based devices due to its atomic thinness and excellent electrical properties. However, high contact resistance and the formation of Schottky barriers resulting from interface defects during the metal deposition process remain major bottlenecks that degrade overall device performance and reliability. In this study, we fabricated MoS₂ FETs by employing Sb₂Te₃, van der Waals (vdW) contacts. Minimized interface inhomogeneity was achieved through a hemispherical stamp-based dry transfer of h-BN for device encapsulation. h-BN encapsulation decreased the hysteresis window in the ±25 V gate voltage range from 17 V to 11.5 V compared to un-capped devices, confirming that charge trapping phenomena induced by external environmental factors were suppressed. Consequently, the dry transfer technique of h-BN using a hemispherical stamp demonstrated in this study provides a potential solution for securing the long-term reliability of MoS₂ devices with vdW contact by minimizing interface contamination.

The safety and stability concerns of liquid electrolytes in conventional lithium-ion batteries have accelerated the development of solid-state alternatives. NASICON type ceramics Li_1.5Al_0.5Ti_1.5(PO₄)₃ (LATP) offer promising properties, including high bulk ionic conductivity and good compatibility with lithium anodes. However, their practical application is hindered by grain boundary resistance and relatively low total ionic conductivity. This study investigates the effect of Ta₂O₅ doping on LATP to overcome these limitations. Doping with 5 wt% Ta₂O₅ improved the ionic conductivity to 2.95 × 10-4 S/cm by enhancing lattice structure, reducing grain boundary resistance, and suppressing the formation of secondary phase. Additionally, Ta₂O₅ positively influenced the sintering behavior, resulting in a denser, and more uniform microstructure. These enhancements suggest that Ta₂O₅-doped LATP is a strong candidate for next-generation all-solid-state lithium-ion batteries.

Citations

• Manufacturing Process Optimization of Oxide-Based Multilayer Ceramic Batteries Using Multilayer Ceramic Processing Technologies
  Won-Su Lee, Jong Kyu Lee, Jung Rag Yoon
  Journal of Electrical and Electronic Materials.2026; 39(5): 519.     CrossRef

Bismuth layer-structured ferroelectrics with high Curie temperatures have recently attracted significant attention as promising candidates for high-temperature piezoelectric applications. However, the conventional solid-state reaction method entails high-temperature processing that induces bismuth volatilization, thereby degrading device reliability. In this study, we employed a co-precipitation method enabling atomic-level mixing to significantly lower the synthesis temperature of Nb/Tadoped Bi₄Ti₃O₁₂ ceramics compared to the solid-state reaction method. Experimental results demonstrated that the coprecipitation method yielded a pure single phase at 600℃ without intermediate phases. Furthermore, the synthesized nanopowders, with an average size of 100 nm, lowered the onset temperature of sintering shrinkage to 650℃, approximately 200℃ lower than that of the solid-state counterpart. The low-temperature synthesis process proposed in this work is expected to contribute to the performance enhancement of high-temperature piezoelectric devices by effectively suppressing bismuth volatilization and ensuring compositional stability.

This review systematically examines the structural characteristics, compositional design strategies, and recent research trends of layered double hydroxides (LDHs), which are recognized as promising electrocatalyst materials in electrochemical nitrate-to-ammonia conversion. Despite the rapid growth in related research, achieving simultaneous high selectivity and efficiency remains a significant technical challenge due to the complex mechanisms of the nitrate reduction reaction (NitRR) and its inherent competition with the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). In this study, we analyzed the structural contributions of LDH catalysts for maximizing nitrate reduction efficiency and systematically established key catalyst design indicators required to ensure optimal performance. Specifically, we provide a detailed investigation of the physicochemical mechanisms for enhancing NH₃ production by precisely regulating the adsorption energies of reaction intermediates and maximizing charge transfer efficiency through compositional control and defect engineering. Furthermore, we discuss advanced structural design strategies, such as core-shell tandem structures, MOF-derived architectures, and interlayer anion control, as effective methods for enhancing catalytic performance and optimizing mass transport processes. These insights offer a strategic roadmap for designing high-performance LDH catalysts and represent a critical step toward the practical implementation of sustainable green ammonia production systems, particularly for integration into high-efficiency membrane electrode assembly (MEA) technologies.

The rapid proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI) servers and high-performance computing systems has significantly elevated the technical and reliability requirements for multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs). In such systems, MLCCs are critical passive components that must deliver high capacitance, fast transient response, and robust insulation performance under high temperature, voltage, and current density. This review examines the material, structural, and process innovations that underpin MLCC performance in AI applications. Key topics include the development of ultrathin dielectric layers (<0.5 μm), rare-earth doped BaTiO₃-based dielectrics with enhanced DC bias stability, and core-shell microstructures designed for temperature and field resilience. The paper also explores insulation degradation mechanisms―such as vacancydriven conduction and demixing―and advanced reliability assessment methodologies, including HALT, TSDC, and the tipping point framework. Comparisons with automotive-grade MLCCs highlight the unique requirements of AI systems, such as ultraminiaturization, high volumetric efficiency, and ppm-level field failure rates. Finally, the review discusses emerging trends in MLCC technology, including particle engineering, interface stabilization, and advanced lamination techniques, and provides insight into the future direction of capacitor development tailored to AI data center environments.

Citations

• Reliability enhancement in Dy-doped BaTiO3 nanoceramics: from core–shell structure to phase-field modeling
  Shuyan Huang, Xinjie Wang, Mengjian Xiao, Xu Cheng, Xiaohui Wang
  Journal of Materials Science.2026; 61(37): 27665.     CrossRef
• Key factors determining high-temperature operating lifetime of multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs)
  Yuto Tomura, Tzu-han Weng, Yusuke Oba, Tomohiro Kajita, Daiki Ishii
  Japanese Journal of Applied Physics.2026; 65(16): 16SP05.     CrossRef
• Effect of BaZrO3 Addition on the Frequency and Temperature Dependent Dielectric Properties of BaTiO3-Based Ceramics
  Won-Su Lee, Jong Kyu Lee, Moon-Taek Cho, Jung Rag Yoon
  Journal of Electrical and Electronic Materials.2026; 39(5): 478.     CrossRef
• Manufacturing Process Optimization of Oxide-Based Multilayer Ceramic Batteries Using Multilayer Ceramic Processing Technologies
  Won-Su Lee, Jong Kyu Lee, Jung Rag Yoon
  Journal of Electrical and Electronic Materials.2026; 39(5): 519.     CrossRef

Flexible and wearable electronics, which require stable operation under mechanical deformation, are increasingly utilizing Eutectic Gallium-Indium (EGaIn) for their conductive components. This study presents a systematic approach to fabricating highly reliable, deformable electrodes via a direct-ink-writing (DIW) 3D printing process using EGaIn as the functional ink. We conducted a thorough optimization of key printing parameters, specifically the extrusion pressure and printing speed, to achieve stable and uniform conductive lines. Through this optimization, we successfully established an optimal process window, achieving a stable line width of approximately 130 μm at an extrusion pressure of 300 kPa and a printing speed of 16 mm/s. The fabricated flexible electrodes exhibited exceptional electromechanical stability, maintaining negligible resistance change (< 0.82%) both under severe bending (3 mm radius) and after 100 repetitive bending cycles. This work demonstrates that the 3D printing of EGaIn is a viable and effective method for creating robust, high-performance electrodes for the next generation of deformable and wearable electronic devices.

Organic photovoltaics (OPVs) are attractive candidates for sustainable energy conversion due to their flexibility, lowcost processing, and compatibility with large-area fabrication. However, their efficiency is hindered by interfacial defects and vertical phase separation in the active layer, which induce charge imbalance and recombination losses. This work presents an interfacial engineering approach to overcome these limitations in P3HT:PC₇₀BM-based OPVs. Two key strategies were employed: (i) reducing the post-deposition annealing time of the active layer to suppress PC₇₀BM accumulation at the bottom electrode, and (ii) using a DCB:DCM mixed solvent system to regulate solvent evaporation, thereby promoting uniform film formation during PC₇₀BM overlay deposition. Devices fabricated with these optimizations exhibited notable enhancements, achieving short-circuit current density up to 15.83 mA/cm² and a 58.1% increase in power conversion efficiency compared to control devices. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirmed reduced surface aggregation of PC₇₀BM, while X-ray diffraction indicated improved P3HT crystallinity and molecular ordering. These results highlight the critical role of interfacial and morphological control in enhancing charge separation and transport, offering a practical route toward efficient, reproducible, and stable OPVs.

Ceramic thin plates are widely utilized in various advanced technologies, such as fuel cells and heat dissipation substrates, due to their high mechanical strength and thermal conductivity. However, the trend of thinning ceramic plates increases warpage, which can critically affect product quality and reliability. Therefore, understanding and accurately measuring this warpage has become increasingly important. In this study, a non-contact measurement method, the light sectioning technique, was applied to measure the warpage of thin ceramic plates with a half-cell (anode/electrolyte) structure for solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) by varying their area and thickness. The relationship between the physical properties of the thin plates and the warpage was analyzed. Additionally, a comparative analysis was conducted to evaluate warpage errors caused by compressive loads during the traditional contact measurement process. Finally, to verify the reliability of the non-contact measurement method, four types of non-contact measurement techniques - light sectioning technique, laser displacement measurement, optical confocal technique, and white-light interferometry technique - were used to compare warpage data by orientation. The results were also compared with those from contact measurement methods to analyze the average warpage values. Through this, the superiority and high reliability of the non-contact measurement method were demonstrated.

Silicon carbide (SiC) power devices are attracting increasing attention for high-voltage and high-efficiency applications due to their superior material properties. However, achieving an optimal trade-off between specific on-resistance (Ron,sp) and breakdown voltage (BV) remains a key design challenge in planar MOSFET structures. In this study, twodimensional TCAD simulations were conducted to investigate the impact of varying the doping concentrations of the P-well (from 3 × 10¹⁷ to 6 × 10¹⁷ cm^-3) and JFET regions (from 1 × 10¹⁶ to 7 × 1016 cm^-3) on the electrical characteristics of 2.4 kVclass planar SiC MOSFETs. To maintain comparable BV conditions for 2.4 kV operation, two groups with P-well doping concentrations of 4.5 × 10¹⁷ cm^-3 and 5.3 × 1017 cm^-3 were analyzed and compared. When the P-well and JFET doping concentrations were 4.5 × 10¹⁷ cm^-3 and 1.5 × 10¹⁶ cm^-3, respectively, the simulated Ron,sp and BV were 1.41 mΩ·cm² and 3,150 V. In contrast, with P-well and JFET doping concentrations of 5.3 × 10¹⁷ cm^-3 and 5.0 × 10¹⁶ cm^-3, the Ron,sp was reduced to 1.31 mΩ·cm² while the BV slightly increased to 3,200 V. Based on these results, an optimized device structure was proposed, demonstrating its potential for integration into high-voltage SiC-based power systems. This study provides practical design insights and is expected to contribute to the advancement of wide bandgap semiconductor technologies for next-generation power electronics.

Quantum dots (QDs) offer size-dependent tunability across the infrared to ultraviolet range with narrow emission linewidths and high color purity, making them highly attractive for next-generation light-emitting devices. Quantum dot lightemitting diodes (QLEDs) further combine precise spectral control with scalable, low-cost solution processing, positioning them as strong candidates for wearable, stretchable, and AR/VR display technologies. However, conventional single-emission QLEDs suffer from charge imbalance, efficiency roll-off, and limited operational lifetime, necessitating new device architectures. Tandem QLEDs, which vertically stack multiple emissive layers (EMLs) connected by charge generation layers (CGLs), provide a compelling solution by enabling higher luminance, improved charge balance, and longer lifetime at equivalent current density. The CGL serves as the interfacial region mediating charge injection and generation between adjacent EMLs, directly determining device efficiency and stability. This review highlights recent progress in CGL engineering, categorizing representative designs into planar heterojunction, inorganic-based, and dipole-based configurations. Comparative analysis of their formation mechanisms, material systems, and process compatibilities reveals evolving charge-control strategies that extend beyond material selection. These insights establish design principles for next-generation tandem QLEDs with enhanced efficiency, durability, and manufacturability.

To ensure the long-term reliability of flexible photovoltaic (FPV) modules, it is crucial to develop an effective moisture barrier layer that prevents the infiltration of moisture and oxygen. We developed such a layer composed of parylene (700 nm) and AlOx (70 nm), optimizing its material properties, moisture-blocking performance, and processing conditions. The barrier layer applied to the Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) substrate demonstrated a water vapor transmission rate (WVTR) of 6.33 × 10^-2 g/m²/day and an average visible light transmittance (AVT) of 85.3% over the 380-780 nm wavelength range. For the FPV module with this barrier, Damp/Heat (DH) reliability testing was conducted at 85℃ and 85% relative humidity for up to 1,000 hours. During testing, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) decreased slightly from 25.4% (0 hr) to 24.7% (1,000 hr), reflecting a minimal reduction of only 0.7%. The primary cause of degradation was identified as a -4% relative change in shortcircuit current density (JSC) before and after DH testing. Consequently, the ETFE/parylene/AlOx multilayer moisture barrier proved highly effective in ensuring the long-term reliability of solar modules.

Thermal batteries are designed to activate at high temperatures (~500℃), therefore, the electrodes used in these systems are typically made into pellet form using compression molding techniques that do not involve polymer binders. However, the compression molding technique poses limitations in scaling up the electrode area without increasing thickness for high-power properties. Additionally, the tape casting method has been studied as a way to solve with, but too low a loading level is still an obstacle to practical use. This study fabricated a film cathode of high loading level (35.79 mAh·cm^-2) using the tape casting method for these problem. As utilized fabricated cathode, it investigated the influence of electrode thickness and density on electrochemical performance. Furthermore, a film cathode with a larger area but the same amount of active material as the pellet was fabricated, enabling the design of high-power cells with the same energy density. We expect that the fabricated film cathode with a high loading level and scalable area will enable the development of various thermal battery designs.

Citations

• Manufacturing Process Optimization of Oxide-Based Multilayer Ceramic Batteries Using Multilayer Ceramic Processing Technologies
  Won-Su Lee, Jong Kyu Lee, Jung Rag Yoon
  Journal of Electrical and Electronic Materials.2026; 39(5): 519.     CrossRef

Cathodoluminescence (CL) spectroscopy provides valuable insights into the optical and electronic properties of materials by analyzing photon emission induced by electron beam excitation. In this study, we present a novel CL detection system integrated into a transmission electron microscope (TEM) specimen stage, enabling high-resolution optical analysis of internal microstructures. The system features a parabolic mirror, a focusing lens, and a UV-VIS range optical fiber to maximize light collection and transmission efficiency, with performance further enhanced by a liquid nitrogen cooling setup. Using this system, we successfully performed CL mapping of InGaN/GaN multiple quantum wells (MQWs) and GaN thin films. The results revealed that threading dislocations act as non-radiative centers in GaN and locally increase the bandgap energy in InGaN MQWs, causing a blue-shift in CL emission. These findings support a model in which dislocations induce carrier delocalization, preserving high radiative efficiency despite high dislocation densities. This work demonstrates the effectiveness of the TEM-integrated CL system for nanoscale optical characterization, offering a new pathway for studying defect-related phenomena in semiconductor materials.

This study investigates the insulation performance of a 66 kV dry-type submarine cable used in offshore wind farms under mechanical aging. During installation and operation, submarine cables are subjected to various mechanical stresses, including tension, compression, and bending, which can lead to insulation deterioration. In this study, XLPE samples extracted from a submarine cable were prepared and subjected to controlled tensile strain below the yield strain to evaluate their mechanical and electrical performance. Changes in tensile strength, elongation, and tan δ (dielectric loss factor) were measured to assess the extent of aging. The results indicate that as the applied strain and exposure duration increased, tensile strength and elongation decreased, while tan δ values increased, signifying a decline in electrical insulation performance. A strong negative correlation (R = -0.809) was observed between tan δ and tensile strength, demonstrating that mechanical aging significantly affects electrical properties. These findings highlight the importance of minimizing excessive mechanical stress during the installation and operation of submarine cables. The results provide valuable insights for enhancing the reliability of submarine cables in offshore wind farms and emphasize the necessity of optimized design and maintenance strategies to mitigate the effects of mechanical aging.

Lithium-ion batteries are utilized as an energy source for electric vehicles because of their advantages such as excellent cyclability, high energy density, high capacity, high efficiency, and low price. However, lithium-ion batteries use combustible electrolytes, which have also reported problems related to fire safety. Therefore, research on the fire safety of lithium-ion batteries is actively being conducted. In this study, detection criteria for the fire safety of lithium-ion batteries were proposed through incremental capacity analysis (ICA) and frequency analysis. The experimental results showed that the battery micro internal short circuit (MISC) indicator could be identified through changes in specific frequency bands and fluctuations in the ICA curve.

Citations

• Thermal Stability of NCM622 Cathode Material for Li-ion Batteries: A Real-time Synchrotron X-ray Scattering Study
  Seung-Han Lee, Tae-Sik Cho
  Journal of Electrical and Electronic Materials.2026; 39(4): 394.     CrossRef