Beyond the layers: Reshef Tenne and the birth of new inorganic worlds

This celebratory issue is dedicated to the pioneering vision and legacy of Reshef Tenne, who transformed the landscape of solid-state chemistry and nanotechnology by unveiling new classes of inorganic nanostructures. Marking 35 years since his groundbreaking paper “Polyhedral and cylindrical structures of tungsten disulphide,” which opened an entirely new field of research, this issue honors the enduring impact of that discovery.

Centered on the synthesis, characterization, and fundamental understanding of inorganic nanotubes and fullerene-like nanoparticles derived from layered materials, the scope encompasses advances in synthetic pathways, elucidation of growth mechanisms, and property optimization. Beyond nanotubular structures, the issue also includes contributions exploring layered materials in all their forms, including nanosheets and heterostructures, reflecting the breadth and evolution of this vibrant research area.

Contributions span nanomechanics, nano-optics, energy applications, and state-of-the-art electron microscopy, all inspired by Tenne’s discoveries of closed-cage structures with remarkable mechanical, electronic, and optical phenomena. By bridging chemistry, physics, and materials chemistry, this issue reflects the ongoing expansion of functional inorganic worlds beyond the layers, from atomic design to macroscopic applications. 

Submission deadline: December 31, 2026.