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Science News for August 22, 2021


New live analysis system for plant stomata, signals exciting progress in climate-change resistant crop development

Scientists have developed a new live analysis system for plant stomata, allowing for rapid and affordable identification of desirable traits. This innovation has the potential to accelerate crop development for climate-resistance, addressing future food shortages.

SourceInstitute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (ITbM), Nagoya University·JournalFrontiers in Plant Science·DateAug 22, 2021

Digging into 400 Wh kg−1 Li–S batteries

High-energy-density Li–S batteries have been evaluated for their cycling lifespan, showing that considerable lithium polysulfides exist in the electrolyte despite high specific capacities. The actual capacity loss is mainly attributed to dissolved sulfur species rather than Li anode depletion.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateAug 22, 2021

Researchers develop high-selective pseudocapacitive electrode for water softening

Scientists at Hefei Institutes of Physical Science developed a pseudo-capacitive electrode with high absorption capacity, selectivity, and stability for electro-sorption of hardness ions. The hybrid capacitive deionization system shows superb electro-affinity and high hardness selectivity in multi-cation solution.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Synthetic tissue model with blood vessels

Scientists create a cell culture system where blood vessels can grow within a framework made of synthetic materials. The team investigates material properties that promote blood vessel formation and refines the model to improve its performance, paving the way for growing implantable tissues.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2021

Solar gains stack up

Researchers have developed a new structure and materials for tandem solar cells, enabling more light to be captured and energy converted effectively. The n-i-p configuration achieved a significant improvement in power-conversion efficiency, exceeding 27%, surpassing previous best values.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2021
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Making nylon 6-6 ‘greener,’ and without zinc

A team of researchers has developed a method to produce nylon 6-6 without using the environmentally endangered element zinc. They achieved this by using alternative metals such as iron and cobalt, and harnessing the power of solar energy. The new process reduces energy consumption, saves water, and minimizes hazardous chemicals.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 22, 2021