The UK's first dual-fuel diesel-biomethane powered bus will significantly reduce pollutant and greenhouse gas emissions. The innovative technology, developed in collaboration with the University of East Anglia and leading bus operators, aims to be rolled out across the country and further afield.
Researchers have discovered a strain of bacteria with pilin proteins that can conduct electricity, leading to increased power output in microbial fuel cells. This breakthrough could enable the use of microbial fuel cells in remote environments and monitoring devices, such as ocean floor sensors, to convert waste into electricity.
The NRL's XFC UAS has successfully demonstrated a flight endurance milestone of over six hours, paving the way for long-endurance Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions. The fuel cell-powered system greatly extends payload capacity and endurance compared to traditional battery-powered UAS.
Researchers at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory have identified key characteristics of a rhodium-based catalyst that efficiently releases hydrogen from ammonia borane. The study provides new insights into the catalytic reaction, shedding light on the hardest part of the process and suggesting ways to improve the catalyst.
A diesel engine can be programmed to blend gasoline-diesel fuels in real-time, resulting in a 53% thermal efficiency. This technique reduces combustion temperatures, lowers energy loss, and decreases pollutant emissions.
Scientists have developed a new catalyst made from shrimp shells that can convert canola oil to biodiesel more efficiently and with less waste. The new catalyst enables faster and more environmentally friendly production of biodiesel, reducing pollution and minimizing wastewater.
Researchers explore the mathematical underpinnings of PEM fuel cells, which convert hydrogen into electricity with only heat and water byproducts. The study's findings have significant implications for the development of sustainable energy solutions.
Researchers at Oregon State University have discovered that microcrystalline cellulose can partially replace silica as a reinforcing filler in tire manufacture, decreasing energy required and costs. The new material shows comparable traction on cold or wet pavement and provides higher fuel efficiency than traditional tires in hot weather.
A Florida State University research group has received a $1 million grant to develop new theoretical models for studying the microstructure of nuclear reactor fuels. The goal is to improve fuel reliability and performance, reducing the risk of mechanical failure and radioactive element release.
Researchers from Rovira i Virgili University find that using mud from waste water treatment plants as an alternative fuel reduces CO2 emissions by 140,000 tonnes between 2003 and 2006. This sustainable solution enables cement factories to power their operations without harming human health.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have created a non-toxic coating that resists barnacle buildup for up to 18 months, saving ship owners millions in cleaning and fuel costs. The unique wrinkled topography of the coating prevents barnacles from latching on, a finding that could significantly reduce drag and fuel consumption.
A $18 million grant will support a three-year investigation into new approaches to treating pancreatic cancer, the fourth leading cause of cancer death in the US. The project aims to develop tests that determine what nutrients fuel pancreatic cancer cell growth and survival.
Scientists at Washington University in St. Louis developed a bimetallic fuel cell catalyst that is two to five times more effective than commercial catalysts. The novel technique enables a cost-effective fuel cell technology with potential for cleaner use of fuels worldwide.
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has developed a fuel cell powered UAV that can travel farther and carry heavier payloads than earlier battery-powered designs. This technology has the potential to significantly improve energy efficiency and reduce noise levels, making it ideal for military surveillance missions.
Researchers at NYU and Harvard created a bipedal, autonomous DNA walker that can move on its own using two fuel strands. The device forms base pairs as it moves along a track of DNA, creating energy for movement.
The Naval Research Laboratory has successfully demonstrated a hydrogen-powered fuel cell design for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which can travel farther and carry heavier payloads than earlier battery-powered designs. The Ion Tiger UAV achieves stealthy characteristics, reducing noise, low heat signature, and zero emissions.
Researchers at Brown University have developed a novel approach to creating palladium nanoparticles with increased surface area, resulting in improved efficiency and stability. The breakthrough enables the production of fuel cell catalysts that are four times more stable and twice as active, making them ideal for future applications.
The Office of Naval Research (ONR) has partnered with General Motors to test advanced fuel cell vehicles at Camp Pendleton, which may offer benefits such as reduced air pollution and increased power potential. The partnership aims to advance technology that can also address energy challenges for the public.
A mechanical engineer at Washington University in St. Louis has developed techniques to reduce vehicle drag using active flow control technology, resulting in a 15-18% reduction in fuel consumption. The technology is being researched by airplane and automobile companies worldwide to play an important role in fuel conservation.
Researchers used high-intensity X-rays to examine the interaction between shockwaves and liquid jets, providing insights into combustion efficiency and emissions. The discovery may lead to advances in internal combustion engines and industrial applications.
Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed long, thin platinum nanowires that could improve the performance of fuel cells. The wires are designed to provide a larger surface area for catalysis, reducing the loss of platinum particles during fuel cell operation.
Blacksburg, VA-based Louis A. Madsen will focus on revealing new aspects of charged polymers in water purification and fuel cells through detailed analysis and computer modeling techniques. His project aims to improve the performance of advanced polymers for sustainable energy production and distribution.
A new carbon dioxide map of the US has been released on Google Earth, showing hourly and geographic emissions data for various fossil fuel sources. The map is an unprecedented inventory of CO2 emissions from different types of fossil fuel, offering insights into climate change.
A team of scientists has developed an enzyme-based process that converts cellulose from wood chips and water into high-quality hydrogen fuel. The breakthrough could enable the production of renewable hydrogen for transportation, reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
A new catalyst has been developed that can efficiently oxidize ethanol and produce clean energy in fuel cell reactions. This breakthrough could make ethanol-powered fuel cells a viable alternative to hydrogen-based systems.
Researcher Mark Gordon is exploring ionic liquids as a potential rocket fuel due to their non-toxic and high-energy properties. He aims to develop an ionic liquid that can ignite by chemical reaction, making rocket engines easier to control.
Researchers identified a potential new target for anticancer therapeutics by showing that well-oxygenated tumor cells use lactate as a fuel source, which is released by hypoxic tumor cells. Inhibiting this protein MCT1 disrupts the symbiotic relationship between tumor cell types and leads to decreased tumor growth in mice models.
Researchers have identified a potential new target for anticancer therapeutics by showing that well-oxygenated tumor cells use lactate as a fuel, while hypoxic cells use glucose. Inhibiting this protein MCT1 disrupts the symbiotic relationship between the two cell types, leading to decreased tumor growth in mouse models.
A team at Montana State University has discovered a fungus that produces diesel fuel, which could offer an alternative to fossil fuels. The fungus, called Gliocladium roseum, can grow in cellulose and produce medium-chain hydrocarbons.
Subhash Singhal, PNNL's fuel cell director, received the 2008 Grove Medal for his sustained contributions to fuel cell technology. The award honors achievements in fuel cell science & technology, recognizing Singhal's leadership and research.
Researchers at MU and MRI develop new hydrogen storage material using corncobs and boron, increasing storage capacity and reducing tank size. The project aims to create more flexible and less bulky fuel tanks for vehicles.
A study finds that eliminating smoking and solid fuel use in China could prevent millions of deaths from chronic diseases. Gradual elimination or moderate-aggressive interventions could avoid 26-31 million COPD deaths and 6.3 million lung cancer deaths by 2033.
A Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health study projects that China will experience an estimated 65 million COPD deaths and 18 million lung cancer deaths between 2003 and 2033 if current smoking and biomass fuel use levels continue, highlighting the need for large-scale interventions to reduce disease burden
A simple device that uses an electrically charged tube to create an electric field that thins fuel has been developed, leading to a 20% increase in gas mileage in highway driving and a 12-15% gain in city driving. The technology has potential applications on all types of internal combustion engines.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a process to convert plant sugars into gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel. The new process produces identical molecular compounds to traditional petroleum-based fuels, offering a promising alternative to fossil fuels.
Small-scale fisheries, which employ over 12 million people worldwide, are being disproportionately harmed by eco-labelling initiatives and fuel subsidies. As a result, many small-scale fishers are unable to compete in the market and struggle to survive due to unfair advantages given to large-scale industrial fleets.
Research from the University of Minnesota's Carlson School of Management shows that consumers often gravitate towards the most similar remaining option when one attractive choice becomes unavailable. This phenomenon, known as the 'phantom decoy effect,' can have significant impacts on consumer preference and even election outcomes.
The team's breakthrough design features a Goretex-coated air-electrode that is more economical, easily sourced, and outlasts traditional platinum cells. Testing has shown no degradation or performance loss over 1500 hours of continuous use.
UBC researchers suggest redirecting fuel subsidies from fishing fleets to re-training fishers to address the economic and environmental impact of rising fuel costs. The study found that governments spend $6.4 billion annually on fuel subsidies, which could be better spent supporting sustainable fisheries.
The CSIRO report 'Fuel for thought' explores the challenges and opportunities in reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the transport sector. It suggests that Australia's fuel mix will include expanded use of diesel, gaseous fuels and hybrid electric vehicles to address economic risks associated with rising oil prices and climate change.
Commercial shipping releases 130,000 metric tons of soot annually, with tugboats emitting nearly a gram per kilogram of fuel burned. The high levels are linked to low-quality fuel and poor engine maintenance, contributing to air quality issues near populous urban areas.
Researchers discovered a novel structure that enables oxygen ions to move through fuel cells at lower temperatures than previously thought possible. This breakthrough may lead to reduced operating costs and improved efficiency in stationary fuel cells.
Expressing fuel efficiency in gallons per mile rather than miles per gallon can help consumers choose more fuel-efficient cars. This format reveals the actual gas savings from improvements in fuel efficiency, making it easier for families to identify the most efficient option within their chosen car class.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology are developing fuel-saving technologies that could improve fuel efficiency by 8-12 percent in heavy trucks. These active flow control techniques, combined with conventional aerodynamic streamlining, have the potential to save between 1.6 and 2.4 billion gallons of fuel per year.
MIT engineers developed a new material that increases the power output of direct methanol fuel cells by more than 50 percent. The new material is also less expensive and has potential uses in other electrochemical systems, such as batteries.
The updated GREET model allows researchers to simulate new fuel pathways, including ethanol from Brazilian sugarcane and bio-butanol production. The model also evaluates the energy consumption required for producing aluminum in sport utility vehicles.
Researchers from Rostock have developed a feasible process for the on-demand release of hydrogen, generating it at room temperature from formic acid. The use of formic acid allows the advantages of established hydrogen/oxygen fuel cell technology to be combined with those of liquid fuels.
A new study reveals that yeast mitochondria play a crucial role in regulating cell division, with implications for treating human diseases. The research found that mitochondria can act as the 'command center' directing cell division, and that understanding this process could lead to therapeutic breakthroughs.
Researchers at Duke University have developed a ceramic membrane that allows fuel cells to operate at low humidity and higher temperatures, potentially improving efficiency. This new membrane could address current limitations in fuel cell technology and attract investment for its commercialization.
A team of researchers from INL and partner institutions has successfully improved coated-particle nuclear fuel performance by reaching a burnup of 9% without any fuel failure. The breakthrough increases the efficiency of the reactor system, reducing fuel requirements and waste generation.
Researchers at Arizona State University aim to create an environmentally friendly energy source by harnessing the power of sunlight and bacteria to produce hydrogen. The project uses microbial photosynthesis to generate hydrogen, which can be converted into a clean fuel without releasing CO2 into the atmosphere.
Researchers question the environmental sustainability of hybrid vehicle technology, citing its high cost and potential to slow the adoption of more innovative technologies like fuel-cell cars. The study suggests that the current craze for hybrids may be a red light for climate change and emissions reduction efforts.
A team of researchers at Arizona State University has gained critical insights into a promising microbial fuel cell (MFC) technology using bacteria to generate electricity. The MFC can handle various water-based organic fuels, making it a viable option for wastewater treatment and energy production.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory discovered that gold-cerium oxide and gold-titanium oxide nanocatalysts exhibit high activity in the water-gas shift reaction. The catalysts' oxides break apart water molecules, enabling the elimination of carbon monoxide and improving fuel cell efficiency.
A team of Ames Laboratory scientists has offered a new model explaining the structure and function of proton exchange membranes in fuel cells. The model proposes a network of densely packed, parallel cylindrical water channels that help explain how water and protons diffuse through the membrane.
Researchers developed a portable fuel cell system using JP-8 military jet fuel, reducing sulfur content and emissions. The system successfully powered area lights and a commercial refrigerator, offering cleaner, quieter, and more efficient energy generation.
Iowa State engineer Terry Meyer is developing high-speed laser-based sensors to capture images of combustion chambers at thousands of frames per second. These sensors record data on pollutants, fuel sprays, and energy release, aiming to reduce pollutant emissions and enable alternative fuels.
Fuel cells face challenges such as membrane degradation, carbon corrosion, and platinum instability, leading to reduced durability. Researchers are working to understand the fundamental failure mechanisms and develop new materials or system approaches to mitigate these issues.
A new method to convert low-value glycerol from biodiesel production into a hydrogen-rich gas offers a promising solution for the transportation sector. The process, developed by Dr. Valerie Dupont and her team at the University of Leeds, produces a high-value product in demand for fertilisers, food production, and chemical plants.
A University of Houston research team has discovered a method to make fuel cells more efficient and less expensive. This breakthrough could lead to the widespread adoption of fuel cell-powered vehicles, which are already two to three times more efficient than internal combustion engines.