To solve the energy crisis and environmental issues, it is essential to create effective and sustainable energy conversion and storage technologies. Traditional materials for energy conversion and storage however have several drawbacks, such as poor energy density and inadequate efficiency. The advantages of MOF-based materials, such as pristine MOFs, also known as porous coordination polymers, MOF composites, and their derivatives, over traditional materials, have been thoroughly investigated. These advantages stem from their high specific surface area, highly adjustable structure, and multifunctional nature. MOFs are promising porous materials for energy storage and conversion technologies, according to research on their many applications. Moreover, MOFs have served as sacrificial materials for the synthesis of different nanostructures for energy applications and as support substrates for metals, metal oxides, semiconductors, and complexes. One of the most intriguing characteristics of MOFs is their porosity, which permits space on the micro- and meso-scales, revealing and limiting their functions. The main goals of MOF research are to create high-porosity MOFs and develop more efficient activation techniques to preserve and access their pore space. This paper examines the porosity tunable mixed and hybrid MOF, pore architecture, physical and chemical properties of tunable MOF, pore conditions, market size of MOF, and the latest development of MOFs as precursors for the synthesis of different nanostructures and their potential uses.

Transparent thin-film heaters have sparked great interest in both the scientific and industrial sectors due to their critical role in various technologies, including smart windows, displays, actuators, and sensors. In this review, we summarize the structural design, fabrication methods, properties, and materials used in thin-film heaters. We also discuss methods to improve their efficiency and recent advancements in the field, and provide insights into the market size, growth, and future outlook for thin-film heaters.

The transition toward sustainable construction practices has intensified the demand for intelligent and energy-efficient building components, particularly smart window technologies. While numerous innovations exist, the selection of the most optimal smart window solution is difficult due to the trade-offs among conflicting criteria such as energy performance, economic feasibility, environmental impact, and user comfort. This study proposes an integrated Fuzzy Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (FMCDM) framework for selecting smart window technologies. The methodology combines the Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) to determine criterion weights and the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to rank alternatives. Nine sustainability-related criteria across the environmental, economic, and social dimensions were evaluated using expert input. The results identify thermochromic smart windows as the optimal choice. This research contributes a structured, adaptable, and scalable FMCDM framework for sustainable technology selection, with broader applicability to green product design and decision-making in the construction and energy sectors.

Continuous rotation of a cholesteric droplet under the heat gradient was observed by Lehmann in 1900. This phenomenon, the so-called Lehmann effect, consists of unidirectional rotation around the heat flux axis. We investigate this gradient heat effect using infrared laser optical tweezers. By applying single trap linearly polarized optical tweezers onto a radial achiral nematic liquid crystal droplet, trapping of the droplet was performed. However, under a linearly polarized optical trap, instead of stable trapping of the droplet with slightly deformed molecular directors along with a radial hedgehog defect, anomalous continuous rotation of the droplet was observed. Under low power laser trapping, the droplet appeared to rotate clockwise. By continuously increasing the laser power, a stable trap was observed, followed by reverse directional rotation in a higher intensity laser trap. Optical levitation of the droplet in the laser beam caused the heat gradient, and a breaking of the symmetry of the achiral nematic droplet. These two effects together led to the rotation of the droplet under linearly polarized laser trapping, with the sense of rotation depending on laser power.

In the context of the architecture and construction industries implementing environmentally friendly sustainable solutions, smart glass is also designed using sustainable materials and sustainable operations, contributing to environmental protection efforts. The application of smart glass in large buildings optimizes the buildings’ operation, helping to reduce reliance on air conditioners that consume large amounts of electricity and emit significant amounts of CO₂ into the environment. Additionally, smart glass enhances energy-saving efficiency by intelligently regulating the indoor temperature and natural lighting, thereby reducing overall energy consumption and operational costs. In this study, the authors propose a fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) model to evaluate and select optimal sustainable smart glass technology based on technical, environmental, economic, and social criteria. The model integrates the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) to calculate the weights of the criteria and the Interactive and Multi-criteria Decision-Making in Portuguese Model (TODIM) to rank different smart glass technology alternatives. The findings highlight the most suitable smart glass technology, offering significant benefits in reducing energy consumption while ensuring aesthetic appeal and durability. This study provides a comprehensive approach to integrating sustainability into smart glass design, contributing to the development of green and energy-efficient buildings.

Vietnam has a coastline of over 3260 km and an exclusive economic zone extending 200 nautical miles, providing favorable conditions for the development of wave energy. Exploring and harnessing this endless energy source to maximize the use of the available resources is essential for sustainable economic development. According to research conducted by the Institute of Marine and Island Research, the total global exploitable wave energy capacity is 212 TWh per year, accounting for nearly 1% of the global total and 90% of Vietnam’s annual electricity consumption needs. However, selecting the optimal location to construct wave energy production plants requires the consideration of various criteria, including efficiency potential, economic and social, technological, transport and environment factors. In this research, the authors propose a hybrid MCDM model including a fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) and Interactive Multi-Criteria Decision-Making method (TODIM) under a fuzzy environment for wave power plant location selection in Vietnam. A real-world application of the approach is given to showcase the effectiveness of the proposed method, where three potential locations are assessed based on 14 criteria. The research results propose priority locations for project implementation, while providing a scientific basis for policymakers and investors in the decision-making process. This study contributes to promoting the development of renewable energy and efficiently utilizing Vietnam’s marine resources.