Chemical engineers at Rice University have unveiled a set of techniques for cleanly converting glycerin, a major biofuels waste byproduct, into high-value organic acids such as succinate and formate. The new fermentation process uses E. coli bacteria to convert glycerin into these valuable chemicals.
A Finnish study has found that hazardous drinking is common among the general population, with 5.8% of participants meeting the criteria. Hazardous drinkers are at risk but not yet dependent on alcohol, and may not experience significant harm despite their heavy consumption.
A Dutch engineer suggests building pyramids from solidified waste to dispose of toxic industrial and domestic waste. This innovative system reduces the risk of toxic materials leaching into groundwater, providing a sustainable solution to waste management.
The DIAMOND consortium aims to address the £70 billion cost of decommissioning UK nuclear sites through research and innovation. The project will also provide training for the next generation of nuclear waste specialists to combat an EU-wide skills gap.
Dr. Milan Fiala has received the 2008 Alzheimer Award for his work on phagocytosis of amyloid-beta and inflammation in Alzheimer's disease. His research suggests that the immune system's failure to clear waste products from the brain is a key contributor to the disease.
Researchers at ETH Zurich identify a unique invasion strategy used by the vaccinia virus, exploiting cellular waste disposal mechanisms and evading immune response. The discovery sheds light on a new mechanism of action for this virus, which could inform the development of new antiviral agents.
Scientists at Newcastle University have developed a highly energy-efficient technology to convert waste carbon dioxide (CO2) into cyclic carbonates, which can be used in various industrial applications. The technology has the potential to use up to 48 million tonnes of waste CO2 per year, reducing UK emissions by about four percent.
A team of Northwestern University chemists has developed a new metal sulfide material, KMS-1, that can effectively remove strontium, a major component of nuclear waste, by exploiting its unique properties. The material works across the pH scale and outperforms existing methods in terms of selectivity and efficiency.
Researchers at MIT have developed a simple process to manufacture materials that strongly repel oils, which could be used in aviation, space travel, and hazardous waste cleanup. The material's unique microfiber structure allows it to cushion droplets of liquid, preventing them from wetting the surface.
Researchers have found that peanut husks can extract up to 95% of copper ions from waste water, while pine sawdust achieves only 44% extraction. The process works best at slightly acidic conditions, making it a promising solution for reducing toxic copper levels in natural resources
Researchers in India suggest that landfill mining can recover recyclable materials, reduce landfill space, and produce compost. The study found that up to half of material dumped at open stabilized dumpsites could be recovered and reused as compost or daily cover material for landfills.
Research published in Critical Care found that mobile phones can cause electromagnetic interference (EMI) on critical care equipment such as ventilators and pacemakers. The study recorded almost 50 EMI incidents, with the second generation GPRS signal causing the highest number of incidents at over 60%.
The UK's escalating waste problem can be tackled by changing buying habits and attitudes to consumption. Social marketing techniques can encourage people to reduce their consumption and lower waste output.
A recent study published in The Lancet found that hazardous drinking is responsible for 43% of deaths in Russian men aged 25-54. This includes both excessive consumption of regular beverage-alcohol and drinking of non-beverage alcohol such as colognes, medical tinctures and cleaning agents.
Researchers have developed small acoustic heat-engine devices that convert waste heat into sound and then into electricity. The technology shows promise for harnessing solar energy and cooling electronics, with plans to test the devices within a year at military radar facilities and universities.
A team of Purdue researchers has created a system that can pinpoint passengers who contaminate airline cabins with hazardous materials or pathogens. The technique, called "inverse simulation," analyzes airflow patterns and uses data from sensors to track the source of contaminants.
Dutch researcher Saikat Mazumder developed a method to estimate CO2 storage in coal using CT scans, improving understanding of crack patterns and gas absorption. Coal was found suitable for filtering out carbon dioxide from waste gases and storing it.
Researchers have created a building block made almost entirely of recycled glass, metal slag, and other waste products, aiming to revolutionize the construction industry. The 'Bitublock' is estimated to reduce energy consumption by up to 50% and use an estimated 400,000 tonnes of crushed glass annually.
Rutgers engineers have developed a process to recycle waste latex paint by blending it with common plastics, resulting in materials that are as good as or superior to those made without paint. The technology has the potential to reduce disposal costs and environmental impact of waste paint products.
Research from the University of Michigan confirms environmental justice scholars' claims that hazardous waste facilities are concentrated in poor, minority neighborhoods. The study found demographic changes occurred before facility siting, contradicting the 'people came first' argument.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a simple, disposable sensor for detecting hazardous uranium ions using DNA. The sensor provides fast, on-site testing for assessing uranium contamination and remediation strategies, with detection sensitivity rivalling sophisticated laboratory instruments.
Researchers found that smoking in cars can produce unsafe levels of secondhand tobacco smoke, posing a significant risk to children's health. The study measured concentrations rated 'hazardous' by the EPA, highlighting the need for smoke-free environments for children both in cars and homes.
PNNL researchers have developed a continuous monitoring system that quickly generates real-time data and analysis of high-level radioactive waste. The system can quantify levels of various anions and is adaptable to harsh environments.
Separating urine from wastewater can significantly reduce energy consumption, decrease sewer stench, and protect pipes. By purifying 50% of urine, 25% less energy is needed for the entire purification system.
The SAMMS technology can selectively remove metal contaminants without creating hazardous waste or by-products, with initial targets including coal-fired power plants and municipal facilities. In tests, 99.9% of mercury was successfully removed from simulated wastewater, meeting EPA discharge limits.
Researchers developed a radar-activated system that uses cannons and falcon decoys to deter birds from oil sands mining ponds, showing promise for reducing bird deaths. The system detects birds more effectively than traditional deterrents and can be used in conjunction with industry efforts to reclaim mines and reduce hazardous waste.
Researchers have developed a new method to dispose of nuclear liquid waste by solidifying and stabilizing high alkali, low-activity radioactive waste using hydroceramic materials. The resulting hydroceramic can tie up minor radioactive components in its zeolitic structure, providing a viable alternative for the Department of Energy.
The device uses four sensors to analyze air composition and alert waste management companies to methane gas and odor levels, creating a healthier environment for local communities.
Researchers used passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags to assess fluid motion in simulated radioactive waste without sampling. The technique improved mixing technology for the Hanford Waste Treatment Plant's large-scale operation.
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a method to detect trace quantities of hazardous materials, including explosives, on surfaces such as luggage and skin. The portable device can analyze samples within seconds, making it potentially useful for security screening in public places.
The National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) has awarded $37 million to train emergency and hazardous waste workers. The grants will fund five training programs: Hazmat Disaster Preparedness, Hazardous Waste Worker Training, Department of Energy Nuclear Weapons Cleanup, Minority Worker Training, and Brownfield Minori...
University of California, Irvine researchers will evaluate alternative materials and recycling programs to reduce the environmental impact of e-waste, including cell phones. The interdisciplinary team aims to create a comprehensive model to protect public health and the environment from hazardous chemicals in electronic waste.
Research finds hazardous drinkers and drug users have higher rates of injuries, hypertension, and depression compared to those with less severe problems. Screening for these issues can help prevent worsening of problems and improve overall health.
The University of Arizona has received a $14 million grant to focus on two major types of contaminants: arsenic and halogenated organic solvents like TCE. The research projects will improve hazardous waste management in Arizona and the Southwest, and can serve as a model for arid and semi-arid regions worldwide.
A recent study by A.W. Howard and colleagues found that replacing hazardous playground equipment with safer versions significantly reduced injury rates. The study, which analyzed data from 86 schools, avoided 550 injuries over a 10-month period after the replacement of unsafe equipment.
Brown University has been awarded a four-year, $11.5-million grant to conduct research on hazardous waste and develop tools to remove it. The project aims to identify health threats posed by contaminated sites and create safe remediation devices.
Researchers at the Naval Surface Warfare Center developed a method to process contaminated plastic waste, leading to the creation of the Plastics Waste Processor. The device has been installed on over 650 Navy ships and has improved the sustainability of naval operations.
A recent study found that desert vegetation can maintain dry conditions in the soil, minimizing leaching of wastes into underlying aquifers. This has important implications for radioactive and hazardous waste disposal, as well as water resources management.
A two-hour brief negotiation intervention was developed and taught to 58 emergency room physicians, with over 90% passing the proficiency exam. The intervention helps hazardous and harmful drinkers by raising awareness of their drinking levels, enhancing motivation to reduce drinking, and negotiating a plan of action.
A partnership between The Beard Company and Pinnacle Mining Company will utilize patented Microcel TM technology to recover clean coal from fine coal impoundments, providing a new energy resource. The project is expected to produce 240,000 tons of clean coal per year.
A University of Utah study suggests that a type of cellular waste may be responsible for a form of blinding eye disease called retinitis pigmentosa. The researchers found that a mutation in the carbonic anhydrase 4 gene can lead to photoreceptor degeneration, highlighting the potential for new treatments targeting this process.
The Geologic and Environmental Probe System (GEOPS) is an innovative technology that allows scientists to directly measure hazardous chemicals in the soil. By inserting the probe into the ground without disturbing the surrounding soil, researchers can gather accurate data quickly and efficiently, saving time and money.
The new database will allow researchers to submit a single chemical inventory once a year, reducing the need for frequent updates. It will also screen for hazardous chemicals and explosives, providing critical information in emergency situations and helping prevent laboratory accidents.
Solid fuel particles may be a safer alternative to gaseous fuels for use in hazardous environments on Earth, as they burn more efficiently in microgravity. Researchers used the NASA 'Vomit Comet' aircraft to simulate weightlessness and measure burning characteristics of various solid fuel particles.
Researchers found that caustic soils at Hanford can trap radioactive cesium and strontium, forming stable minerals like zeolites and feldspathoids. This discovery may aid in remediation efforts by slowing down the migration of toxic waste into groundwater.
The INEEL-designed closure system will demonstrate operations and equipment, with the prototype constructed and operated at the INEEL. The project builds on INEEL's expertise in spent fuel canister welding and robotics to develop a remote-operated waste package closure system.
A study of 445 patients with chronic olfactory dysfunction found a significant link between impaired sense of smell and an increased risk of cooking-related incidents, gas leaks, and fire detection. Otolaryngologists must be aware of these risks to provide proper diagnosis and counseling for patients.
Research found brief, in-person interventions are best for hazardous drinkers under 24. Computerized approaches with individualized feedback also show promise for college students. These methods can be delivered through electronic means, addressing barriers such as distance and fear of judgment.
Bacteria use iron oxide to breathe in anaerobic environments, allowing them to degrade toxic waste. Genetic manipulation enables tailored targeting of specific contaminants.
Researchers found widespread zeolites across Yucca Mountain, abundant at a depth considered ideal for waste storage. A combination of man-made safeguards and natural features is necessary to prevent waste migration.
Researchers at Cardiff University are launching a survey to gather detailed data on commercial and industrial waste arisings in Wales. The survey will question 2,400 businesses across the country, providing valuable insights into waste generation and management practices.
Scientists will conduct live agent testing of masks at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, simulating mustard blistering and nerve gas sarin exposure. The tests aim to establish a maximum penetration rate and fit testing methods for gas masks worn by first responders.
Cardiff University researchers are conducting large-scale experiments to generate compost from municipal waste, aiming to reduce landfill gas emissions and save soil quality. By actively managing the composting process, they can produce high-quality compost in just eight weeks, compared to a year under traditional methods.
DuPont researchers developed a new way to make methyl isocyanate on site, reducing hazardous material handling by thousands of pounds. The approach has changed the company's handling of many hazardous chemicals, enhancing its environmental safety.
A staged development concept for Yucca Mountain aims to allow decisions based on latest available information, avoiding rigid timelines. A pilot stage will study performance before storing large amounts of radioactive waste.
A research team from Purdue University and the University of British Columbia has identified a bottleneck in the degradation of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), a persistent and hazardous industrial chemical. By breeding bacteria to overcome this hurdle, the team hopes to develop an environmentally friendly solution for cleansing the ...
Scientists developed an optical system to monitor drop sizes and trajectories at high spatial resolutions, finding rogue drops responsible for unscavenged metals. The technology has implications for nuclear waste treatment and design of cleaner-running engines.
Trawler fishermen face unique occupational and weather-related hazards, while economic pressures often hinder safety measures. New technology can improve vessel buoyancy and provide access to reliable weather predictions.
The Harvard Medical School consortium aims to engineer microorganisms to handle hazardous chemical waste and produce energy sources. By studying the unique interactions of their proteins and interrelationships with their environments, scientists will develop cost-effective ways to clean up pollution and advance biological-based energy.
Scientists at Purdue University have made breakthroughs in understanding the chemistry of aluminum and sodium compounds in high-level radioactive waste. Their study documents the transformation of liquid to solid waste, shedding light on how to minimize nuclear waste volume and predict leakage.