University of Waterloo researchers investigate how fuel cell-powered trucks can replenish overworked electricity grids with clean energy. The study proposes a mobile generator system, where idled electric vehicles act as power sources, reducing peak demand and carbon emissions.
A new double main-injection (DMI) strategy has been proposed to regulate fuel stratification in Gasoline Compression Ignition (GCI) mode, improving fuel economy and reducing emissions. The study found that simultaneous main-injection and exhaust gas recirculation can achieve rapid fuel supply and control of combustion.
Researchers have developed a solid electrolyte that allows for efficient hydride ion conduction at room temperature, enabling the creation of safer, more efficient hydrogen-based batteries and fuel cells. This breakthrough provides material design guidelines for the development of next-generation energy storage solutions.
A new study found that fossil fuel companies rarely respond to online discussions about extreme weather, but instead engage with sustainability initiatives and corporate efforts. Climate misinformation can fuel denialism and delay action, emphasizing the need for understanding how it's designed and spread.
Researchers at the University of Seville have developed a bioinspired PEM fuel cell design that improves the distribution of liquid water inside these batteries. This approach has the potential to significantly enhance the efficiency and durability of PEM fuel cells, leading to more efficient and sustainable energy systems.
Researchers have made significant strides in understanding the relationship between hydrogen partial pressure and PEMFC performance, revealing a pronounced decline in performance as hydrogen partial pressure decreased. The study aims to simplify fuel cell quality testing, cost reduction, and reduced safety requirements.
Researchers at University at Buffalo have discovered a way to create strong and effective fuel cell catalysts that approach the performance of platinum. By adding hydrogen to the fabricating process, they were able to balance durability and efficiency, potentially making fuel cells more affordable and polluting-free.
Recent US legislation aims to increase fire management and tree planting to reduce large destructive fires and promote carbon sequestration. Fuel reduction activities are projected to remove 194-288 million metric tons of carbon from western forests over the next decade.
Scientists have developed a new method to create catalysts for hydrogen fuel cells, making them cheaper and more efficient. The breakthrough could lead to the widespread adoption of clean energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Scientists have developed a new, efficient ethanol catalyst made from copper nanoparticles, which is cheaper than platinum and could increase the potential of ethanol fuel cells. The catalyst was created through laser melting and shows great promise for improving ethanol oxidation.
The University of Oklahoma research project aims to understand how microbes capture carbon dioxide molecules and incorporate them into biomass. The team is also exploring electron bifurcation, a process that enables fuel upcycling reactions, which convert waste molecules into fuel.
Researchers developed a fast-charging hybrid battery system that combines electrochemical generation of formic acid with a microbial fuel cell, enabling efficient energy storage. The system produced enough current for 25 hours of discharge and demonstrated potential applications in monitoring water toxicity.
Researchers at MIT and Harvard University have developed an efficient process to convert carbon dioxide into a stable, solid formate fuel that can be used in fuel cells and generate electricity. The new process achieves over 90% conversion efficiency and eliminates the need for toxic and flammable fuels.
Scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a new, environmentally friendly fuel cell membrane made from chicken feathers. The keratin-based membrane replaces toxic substances and reduces carbon emissions. This breakthrough could enable the widespread adoption of hydrogen power as a sustainable energy source.
Researchers from NTU Singapore and ETH Zurich have developed a clean and sustainable material to build zero-waste fuel cells using chicken feathers. The membrane, made from protein amyloid fibrils, conducts protons and reduces carbon emissions from burning unwanted chicken feathers.
Research shows that fossil fuel workers have the right skills for green jobs but face a geographical mismatch. The study highlights the need for policymakers to consider targeting areas of fossil fuel extraction for investment in other industries, making it easier for workers to transition.
The MIT team designed a train-like system of reactors that harnesses the sun's heat to produce clean hydrogen fuel with up to 40% efficiency. This could drive down costs and make solar thermochemical hydrogen (STCH) a scalable option for decarbonizing transportation.
A new study by the University of Eastern Finland found that preheating a vehicle has minimal effects on both fuel economy and emissions under cold winter conditions. While preheating showed some benefits in terms of engine comfort and wear reduction, its impact on overall fuel consumption was only slightly lower than after a cold start.
Researchers developed a poly(p-terphenyl isatin) anion exchange membrane with quaternary ammonium and piperidine cations that provides excellent mechanical properties and OH-ion conductivity. The material's stability and tensile strength reach new heights, paving the way for industrialized application of anion-exchange membranes.
This study uses magnetic sensors to detect and control fuel cell malfunctions. By visualizing the current distribution in real-time, the system can stabilize voltage while controlling bias, enabling stable fuel cell operation. The team aims to develop a comprehensive diagnostic and control system for real-world applications.
Researchers developed a graphene-based proton-exchange membrane that successfully suppresses the crossover phenomenon, allowing for high proton conductivity while blocking fuel molecule penetration. This study contributes to the development of advanced fuel cells as an alternative to hydrogen-type fuel cells.
Phil Ansell reviewed over 300 research projects to assess sustainable aviation fuels, finding that multiple energy carriers have potential. Bio jet fuel pathways, power-to-liquid pathways for synthetic kerosene, liquid hydrogen, and battery electric systems were among the options examined.
A new predictive model could help reduce unscheduled maintenance at hydrogen stations, increasing availability and consumer confidence. The model uses prognostics health monitoring to predict component failures and estimate remaining useful life, allowing station operators to schedule maintenance when demand is low.
Researchers at USTC developed a new anode catalyst with high activity and high resistance to ammonia poisoning for AEMFC. The Cr-doped MoNi4 catalyst showed significant improvement over traditional Pt/C catalysts, maintaining peak power density under 10 ppm NH3.
A team of researchers at UNIST has developed solid electrolyte materials utilizing metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to improve the efficiency of hydrogen fuel cells. The new materials demonstrate high hydrogen ion conductivity and durability, holding promise for advancing sustainable energy solutions.
A team of researchers from Waseda University successfully generated electricity directly from methylcyclohexane using solid oxide fuel cells, with a production ratio of toluene to benzene at 94:6. The process generates electricity without dehydrogenation facilities and uses less energy than conventional methods.
A joint research team from City University of Hong Kong and collaborators developed a stable artificial photocatalytic system that mimics natural chloroplasts to convert carbon dioxide into methane, a valuable fuel, very efficiently using light. The new system achieved a highly efficient solar-to-fuel efficiency rate of 15%, surpassing...
Scientists have synthesized proton-conductive membranes based on partially fluorinated aromatic ionomers, which exhibit high durability and ion conductivity. These membranes outperform existing ones in fuel-cell operation, chemical stability, and mechanical properties, paving the way for more powerful and affordable electric vehicles.
Researchers developed a method to reduce platinum-group metal loadings in fuel cells, resulting in competitive performance and better durability. The new process could enable mass production of fuel cell electric vehicles, offering zero emissions and higher energy density.
A joint Korean-German research team has developed a new laser machining technology for fuel cells that enables simultaneous welding and cutting of thin bipolar plates. The technology uses a scanner with real-time cross-coupling control to improve machining accuracy and reduce costs.
Research in mice suggests that prostate cancer cells adapt to testosterone-deprivation therapy by producing cholesterol and generating their own testosterone. Treating aggressive tumors with inhibitors slows tumor growth. The study also points to a possible drug combination and sheds light on racial disparities in prostate cancer.
Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology have discovered a new proton conductor, Ba2LuAlO5, which shows high proton conductivity even without modifications. The material's unique structure and water absorption properties make it ideal for protonic ceramic fuel cells, promising a bright future for sustainable energy generation.
A new study finds that mycorrhizal fungi store up to 36% of yearly global fossil fuel emissions' carbon, equivalent to roughly 13 gigatons. This vast underground network is essential to both storing carbon and global biodiversity.
Researchers from Tianjin University provide an insightful review of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) for small-scale applications. The study highlights the unique attributes of PEMFCs, such as high energy densities and low pollution emissions, making them suitable for portable power generation, unmanned aerial vehicles, and...
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology developed a selective catalyst that curbs corrosion in fuel cells, increasing durability three times compared to traditional catalysts. The catalyst's performance is attributed to the robust interaction between titanium dioxide and platinum.
University of Rochester researchers create a groundbreaking system mimicking photosynthesis using bacteria and nanomaterials to produce clean-burning hydrogen fuel. The innovative approach replaces fossil fuels in the process, offering an environmentally friendly alternative.
Nagoya University researchers have developed a poly(styrenesulfonic acid)-based PEM with an ultrahigh density of sulfonic acid groups, exceeding five times that of typical commercially available membranes. The new membrane exhibits a proton conductivity of 0.93 S/cm at 80°C under 90%RH, six times higher than Nafion or Selemion under th...
A team led by Professor Yoshihiro Yamazaki from Kyushu University discovered the chemical innerworkings of a perovskite-based electrolyte developed for solid oxide fuel cells. By combining synchrotron radiation analysis, large-scale simulations, machine learning, and thermogravimetric analysis, they found that protons are introduced at...
Researchers have developed a novel photocatalytic hybrid fuel cell that can remove organic pollutants in water while generating electricity. The fuel cell uses BiOCl-NH4PTA as a photocatalyst, which greatly improves electron transfer and charge separation.
A team of researchers at ETH Zurich has created an implantable fuel cell that uses excess blood sugar to generate electrical energy. The device powers artificial beta cells that produce insulin, effectively regulating blood glucose levels.
Researchers have developed a novel process to convert nitrogen and hydrogen into ammonia at ambient temperature and pressure with high energy efficiency. The process uses a solid polymeric electrolyte and eliminates the need for purification, producing pure ammonia gas.
A recent study by the University of Gothenburg found that public acceptance of fossil fuel subsidy removal could be improved in developing countries if the revenue is invested in social and economic development. The researchers analyzed attitudes towards removing subsidies on fossil fuels in five developing countries, including Ecuador...
The Center for Bioenergy Innovation has been renewed with $590 million in funding over five years to develop sustainable jet fuel from nonfood biomass crops and specialty processes. The center aims to reach Tier 1 validation of its jet biofuel, reducing carbon dioxide emissions from commercial aircraft.
A novel method has been developed to produce platinum-based alloy nanoparticles for efficient hydrogen fuel cells. The nanocatalysts exhibit enhanced power performance and stability, with high specific rated power of 5.9 kW/g Pt, surpassing 2025 targets set by the U.S. Department of Energy.
Researchers at the University of Surrey have found promising results for using edge-decorated nano carbons as metal-free catalysts for direct conversion of methane into hydrogen. The study shows strong resistance to carbon poisoning, a common issue with catalysts in this process.
A research team from the University of Southampton discovered that supermassive black holes are fueled by gas clouds from neighboring galaxies. The study found a link between misaligned gas and active supermassive black hole activity, suggesting that galaxy interactions provide a source of fuel for these phenomena.
Developed by Incheon National University researchers, the new membranes exhibit high mechanical strength, phase separation, and ionic conductivity. The 40% crosslinked membrane showed the highest relative humidity, normalized conductivity, and peak power density, surpassing commercial membranes.
Researchers have developed a nano-scale platinum-cobalt alloy to reduce the need for rare and expensive platinum in hydrogen fuel cells, enhancing performance and stability. The new alloy achieves superior results at lower costs, paving the way for wider adoption of fuel-cell technology.
A team of WPI researchers has developed a potential breakthrough in green aviation: a recipe for a net-zero fuel for planes that pulls carbon dioxide out of the air. The fuel, made from magnesium hydride and hydrocarbon, could provide up to 8% more range than traditional jet fuel.
Researchers developed a small molecule-assisted impregnation approach to synthesize carbon-supported platinum intermetallic fuel cell catalysts. The optimal additive, sodium thioglycolate (STG), suppresses PtCo sintering by coordinating with Pt and Co to form precursors.
Researchers at Princeton and Rice universities developed a low-cost technique to split hydrogen from liquid ammonia using LED light and nanotechnology, paving the way for sustainable and locally produced hydrogen. The technique overcomes a critical hurdle in realizing hydrogen's potential as a clean fuel.
Researchers at HKUST designed an innovative iron-based cathode material to achieve record performance for protonic ceramic fuel cells. The new material, Ba0.875Fe0.875Zr0.125O3-δ, has exceptional electrochemical activity and excellent operational stability.
A new study published in Nature Sustainability shows that planting miscanthus and switchgrass on 23.2 million hectares of marginal agricultural lands can meet the US aviation sector's liquid fuel demands fully from biofuels by 2040. This pathway could make all US air travel nearly emissions-free.
Researchers have discovered a new process that uses fuel to control non-living materials, similar to living cells. This breakthrough enables the creation of soft robots that can sense their environment and respond accordingly.
The Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM) has developed a hydrogen co-firing combustor for gas turbines, reducing CO2 emissions by 10.4%. The technology will be demonstrated on power plants by 2027.
A new method for combining platinum with the rare earth element lanthanum as an alloy has been devised to improve the performance and reduce the cost of fuel cells. The development is expected to make it easier to decarbonize heavy transport vehicles that are less amenable to battery power.
A new catalytic process using lignin could enable the production of 100% sustainable aviation fuel, reducing carbon emissions from the airline industry. The researchers successfully reduced the oxygen content of lignin to less than a half-percent, making it suitable for use as a jet fuel blendstock.
Investigative journalist Paul Thacker found that fossil fuel companies funded research on climate change to weaken messages and protect their interests. Many students at elite universities are now calling for them to cut ties with the industry, citing examples such as carbon capture technology as a prime example of the problem.
Researchers found that a 2% reduction in atomic distance on the surface leads to a significant decrease in hydrogen ion conductivity, reducing fuel cell performance. Developing methods to mitigate this strain is crucial for improving high-performance fuel cells for clean energy production.
A new report identifies the top 10 financial actors influencing the fossil fuel economy and outlines their decisive role in helping de-carbonize our future. The study suggests that these influential actors, including investment advisors and governments, can make transformative changes to reduce fossil fuel production.