Transition metal valence state, a key property steering heterogeneous catalysis, has remained underexplored for its role in tuning S cathode kinetics in Li–S batteries. This study reported that CuO and Cu₂O particulate catalysts exhibited distinct interactions with sulfur species, dictating the kinetics of sulfur reduction reactions. While Cu²⁺ enables direct (poly)thiosulfate redox, both Cu²⁺ and Cu⁺ indirectly modulate lithium (poly)sulfide chemisorption by altering O^2- reactivity and Li bond strength. CuO with stronger interactions enabled faster sulfur reduction reaction kinetics, achieving enhanced Li–S battery performance. This work expands the scope of metal-valence-state effects in catalysis and offers an unconventional strategy to optimize Li–S battery performance via indirect Li-bond regulation.

Professor Ngai Wong and Dr Zhengwu Liu from the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering at the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Hong Kong (HKU), in collaboration with research teams at Tsinghua University and Tianjin University, have conducted groundbreaking research on memristor-based brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). Published in Nature Electronics, this research presents an innovative approach for implementing energy-efficient adaptive neuromorphic decoders in BCIs that can effectively co-evolve with changing brain signals.

The 2025 Hong Kong Climate Forum, co-organised by the Institute for Climate and Carbon Neutrality (ICCN) at the University of Hong Kong and the Environment and Ecology Bureau of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), officially opened this morning. The two-day event brings together government representatives, experts, scholars, and industry leaders from around the world to discuss the challenges posed by climate change and explore mitigation measures. Participants will also exchange how Hong Kong and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) can leverage green technology, green finance, and policy support to unlock vast opportunities through innovative practices.

The Thomas R. Brown Leadership Chair will enhance growth and expertise in electrical and computer engineering at the University of Arizona. It supports initiatives to advance research, education, and leadership in the field, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and innovation.