Research by TU Wien found that small droplets with coronaviruses can remain airborne for an order of magnitude longer than assumed due to high humidity. This means that even short-range exposure poses a significant risk, highlighting the need for scientifically sound guidelines on mask-wearing and safety distances.
SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 17, 2021
A new study found that people infected with COVID-19 exhale infectious virus in their breath, putting others at risk. Using tight-fitting masks can reduce the amount of virus in the air by half.
SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalClinical Infectious Diseases·DateSep 16, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Two studies found that breathing humid and salt-enriched air reduced respiratory droplet generation by approximately 50% within 10 minutes. The study suggests this mechanism may contribute to the effectiveness of cotton face masks in reducing COVID-19 incidence and death.
SourceWorld Scientific·JournalMolecular Frontiers Journal·DateSep 1, 2021
A new study has detected high levels of PFAS chemicals in indoor air, particularly in carpets and other products treated with the forever chemicals. The research suggests that children may be exposed to these harmful substances through inhalation, highlighting the need for reduced use of PFAS in products.
SourceGreen Science Policy Institute·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateAug 31, 2021
Researchers found that breathing humid air and delivering salt droplets reduced respiratory droplet generation by 50% within 10 minutes. A correlation between elevated airborne salt concentration and reduced COVID-19 incidence and deaths was also observed along US coastlines.
SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalMolecular Frontiers Journal·DateAug 31, 2021
A new MIT study highlights the importance of careful classroom ventilation in reducing the spread of Covid-19 aerosols. Researchers found that certain configurations, such as closed windows and limited upward air movement, can lead to higher concentrations of potentially problematic aerosols.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalBuilding and Environment·DateAug 11, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
A new study by University of Miami scientists found that low-cost face masks and AC filters are effective at filtering out toxic algae in the air. Face masks filtered out over 90% of toxin-containing particles, while AC filters with high filter performance ratings reduced airborne toxins by 20-90%.
SourceUniversity of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science·JournalAerosol and Air Quality Research·TypeObservational study·DateAug 6, 2021
Research by University of Washington and US Forest Service scientists reveals a dramatic shift in nighttime air's drying power over the Western US, increasing wildfire activity. This shift is not captured in climate models, with some areas experiencing water loss doubling up on warmer nights.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateAug 5, 2021
A study by Texas A&M researchers found that silicone wristbands can be used as passive samplers to measure exposure to harmful chemicals during pregnancy. The wristbands yielded similar results to traditional testing methods, suggesting they could be a useful tool in studies of semi-volatile pollutants.
SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Exposure Science & Environmental Epidemiology·DateJul 23, 2021
Elite runners exhibit 'stiffer' spring-mass systems with steeper impact angles, spending more time in the air and less on the ground. This may allow for better energy recycling and improved performance.
SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 20, 2021
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.
A Georgia Tech study found that a hydroxyl radical generator in an office setting generated organic acids and secondary organic aerosols, which can cause health problems. The device was marketed to inactivate pathogens like coronaviruses, but the study highlights the need for further research on its unintended effects.
SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJul 16, 2021
Engineers at UC Riverside developed an air-powered computer memory that can be used to control soft robots. This innovation eliminates the need for electronic valves and computers, reducing size, cost, and power demands.
SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 16, 2021
Research finds that exhaled heated tobacco aerosol particles are droplets comprised of 75-85% water, evaporating quickly and not impacting indoor air quality. The aerosol is mostly composed of water droplets, unlike cigarette smoke, which lingers in the air and exceeds IAQ standards.
SourceImperial Brands·JournalAerosol and Air Quality Research·DateJul 14, 2021
Researchers from the University of Washington and NOAA's Pacific Marine Environmental Laboratory gather data on cold air pools using Saildrones, which alter surface temperature, wind, and moisture over the ocean. The study provides detailed measurements of these events, shedding light on their role in tropical climate cycles.
SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJul 8, 2021
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.
Researchers developed a low-cost, accurate gas sensing device that can detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in air samples within 10 minutes. The device has potential applications in monitoring indoor air quality and non-invasive medical screenings.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateJul 6, 2021
The new indoor module for Eddy3D software helps designers and architects maximize fresh air flow and minimize stagnant areas. By simulating airflow and identifying virus diffusion patterns, the tool reduces the risk of airborne pathogens in post-COVID offices.
A new study using EDGAR database shows that urbanisation has led to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas and air pollutant emissions in high-income countries. The majority of global emissions occur in urban areas, with some exceptions like NH3 emissions, which are mostly driven by agricultural activities.
SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateJul 6, 2021
Researchers at NIST have upgraded their laser frequency-comb instrument to measure three airborne greenhouse gases: nitrous oxide, carbon dioxide, and water vapor, plus major air pollutants ozone and carbon monoxide. The new system can identify gas signatures by precisely measuring the amounts of light absorbed at each color in the bro...
SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateJun 30, 2021
The simulation reveals that smaller aerosol particles can spread over a greater area and evade face masks, while larger particles dissipate quickly. The study provides new insights into the capacity of infectious aerosols to disperse in the environment.
SourceUniversitat Rovira i Virgili·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJun 30, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
Researchers found that small pockets of virus-laden air can detach from an exhaled breath and travel in a ballistic manner, reaching large distances. This phenomenon is known as the butterfly effect, where miniscule initial variations are amplified by turbulence.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJun 29, 2021
Researchers found that up to 40% of lead in airborne particles comes from legacy leaded petrol, highlighting the persistence of contaminants introduced by human activities. Long-term low-level exposure to lead can have detrimental health effects, and measures should be taken to reduce further lead emissions.
SourceImperial College London·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 21, 2021
Researchers developed a new transparent material that captures and removes droplets and aerosols from indoor air, effectively eliminating potential sources of transmission. The coating can be applied to various surfaces and is compatible with antiviral materials.
Researchers investigate storage of CO2-N2-O2 mixtures in geological formations, suggesting environmentally safe and economically viable approach to remove carbon from atmosphere. Direct air capture technology enables carbon capture anywhere, reducing transportation costs and improving social acceptance.
Researchers at Southwest Research Institute are developing a cost-effective method for harvesting water from atmospheric air using silica gel beads. This approach can capture water vapor molecules at low humidity levels, making it a promising solution for communities with limited access to clean water.
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.
Researchers advocate for updated ventilation standards, including pathogen control and flexible systems, to combat airborne virus transmission. The new guidelines aim to improve indoor air quality, reducing healthcare costs and increasing labor productivity.
SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalScience·DateMay 28, 2021
Researchers found that the side of a chocolate bar facing the mold has a more orderly crystalline structure than the air-side face. This difference in crystal form could lead to improved taste and texture, as well as better appearance.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalCrystal Growth & Design·DateMay 26, 2021
Marianna Maiaru, a mechanical engineering assistant professor at UMass Lowell, has received a $450,000 grant from the Air Force to advance the development and processing of high-strength, high-temperature structural materials. Her project focuses on ceramic matrix composite (CMC) materials used in aerospace applications.
Researchers discovered that semi-aquatic anoles use a bubble to re-oxygenate the air they exhale, allowing them to stay underwater for extended periods. The lizards' hydrophobic skin facilitates this process, which is essential for their survival in aquatic habitats.
SourceBinghamton University·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 25, 2021
Researchers urge universal recognition that respiratory infections can be prevented by improving indoor ventilation systems. The researchers propose a paradigm shift in combating airborne pathogens, demanding more action on controlling hazards of airborne transmission.
SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience·DateMay 13, 2021
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.
Researchers found that semi-aquatic anoles can exhale air into a bubble on their skin and re-inhale it, increasing their chances of eluding predators. The team studied six species of semi-aquatic anoles and found that all possessed the rebreathing trait, despite being distantly related.
SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalCurrent Biology·DateMay 13, 2021
A group of scientists recommends introducing new mechanisms to keep pathogen levels in building air flow low, citing the need for a paradigm shift in building design and operation. This approach can also reduce exposure to other air pollutants and improve wellbeing.
A new paradigm is needed to address the risk of airborne pathogens in indoor spaces, building on lessons from food and waterborne disease elimination. Developing recommendations for preventive measures and risk control is crucial to achieving clean air in buildings.
SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateMay 13, 2021
A group of researchers from 14 countries is urging a universal recognition of the need to control airborne pathogens in buildings. The experts recommend improved ventilation systems, including higher airflow rates, filtration, and disinfection, as well as real-time monitors to track indoor air quality.
SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalScience·DateMay 13, 2021
A low-cost box fan air cleaner can greatly decrease airborne virus particles in public school classrooms by drawing in contaminated air and filtering out clean air. Placing the air cleaner near an HUV or other ventilation unit is most effective in reducing aerosol spread.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateMay 11, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
Researchers evaluated CO2 levels and ventilation rates in dental operatories, finding that CO2 levels can be measured with a simple consumer-grade CO2 sensor. They also demonstrated that ventilation rates can be assessed by observing CO2 levels after mixing baking soda and vinegar.
SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateMay 11, 2021
Researchers found that US agriculture contributes to 15,900 annual deaths due to poor air quality, mainly from ammonia emissions. Improving livestock manure management and using fertilizer additives can reduce mortality from poor air quality by consuming more plant-based foods.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 10, 2021
A recent study by the Institute of Atmospheric Physics found that indoor aerosol species are primarily from outdoor air exchange. The researchers measured indoor PM2.5 concentrations and chemical compositions, revealing differences in organic aerosol due to temperature changes. Improved ventilation strategies may actually increase expo...
SourceInstitute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalIndoor Air·DateMay 7, 2021
Oak Ridge National Laboratory has developed a non-invasive air leak detection method that uses imaging technique to visualize air leaks and calculate volumetric flow. The lab also engineered a microbe to efficiently turn waste into itaconic acid, an industrial chemical used in plastics and paints. Additionally, researchers demonstrated...
SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 3, 2021
Echolocating bats use time-based distance estimates, regardless of air conditions. The study found that bat accuracy improved when closer to targets, suggesting an innate ability to discern surroundings in terms of time.
SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 3, 2021
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.
A new study from the University of Utah ties worsening wildfire activity to poor air quality events in Western regions, with smoke impacts clear into September. The researchers found consistent trends in air quality correlating with wildfire activity, but with different spatial patterns in August and September.
SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateApr 30, 2021
A systematic review found no conclusive evidence on portable air filters' ability to reduce respiratory infections, including COVID-19. Two studies did demonstrate capture of airborne bacteria and reduced bacterial counts, but not viral particles or a reduction in incidence.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 29, 2021
Researchers have developed hybrid materials that combine hydrogels and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to optimize water harvesting technologies for various environments. These materials have the potential to provide a sustainable source of water in arid conditions, as well as improve energy efficiency in air conditioning systems.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateApr 28, 2021
A modeling study suggests that rapid air exchanges can cause a spike in viral concentrations within 30 minutes and remain elevated for up to 90 minutes. Increasing outdoor air and strong filtration reduce transmission risk, but the effect of increased ventilation rate is less obvious.
SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalBuilding and Environment·DateApr 22, 2021
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
A novel radiant cooling system combines special panels with natural ventilation to minimize disease transmission and save energy in cities worldwide. By increasing outdoor air flow rates, this alternative solution ensures building occupants remain comfortable and rooms are adequately refreshed.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalApplied Energy·DateApr 20, 2021
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have discovered that certain aerosol particles can exhibit three distinct liquid phases, changing our understanding of air pollutants in the atmosphere. This finding has significant implications for improving atmospheric models and climate predictions.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 12, 2021
A Yale study analyzing 40 million deaths found that even short-term exposure to ambient CO below current guidelines was associated with increased mortality. The research suggests reducing ambient CO concentrations could achieve considerable public health benefits through stricter control of traffic emissions.
SourceYale University·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·DateApr 8, 2021
Researchers used local citizen photos and data to reconstruct the first documented meteotsunami in the Great Lakes, caused by an atmospheric inertia-gravity wave. Existing NOAA models may enable scientists to predict these meteotsunamis minutes to hours in advance.
SourceNOAA Headquarters·JournalNatural Hazards·DateApr 1, 2021
A proof-of-concept study shows that animal DNA can be collected from air samples, enabling new ecological and health assessments. The technique has potential applications in forensics, anthropology, and even medicine, such as understanding airborne diseases like Covid-19.
SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalPeerJ·DateMar 31, 2021
GoPro HERO13 Black
GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed an organic material that uses less energy to dry air, enhancing the efficiency of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. The polyimide-based dehumidifiers can bring down the cost of HVAC systems, which currently cost thousands of dollars.
SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Membrane Science·DateMar 30, 2021
Research suggests even slight increases in nitrogen dioxide levels are associated with significant rises in cardiovascular and respiratory deaths. The study's findings support revising and tightening current air quality guidelines for greater public health benefit.
Researchers have developed copper foams with microscopic pores that effectively filter out submicron-sized aerosols while being durable enough to be decontaminated and reused. The foams are also antimicrobial and recyclable, making them economically competitive with current products.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 24, 2021
A five-member team led by Jingqiu Mao at the University of Alaska Fairbanks is working on a tool to provide air quality forecasts for Alaskans and visitors. The team will use satellite data, ground-based instruments, and computer models to create a web-based forecast that can help wildland fire managers deploy resources effectively.
Filtration with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters is the most popular choice in hospitals and clinical settings. Other methods using ultraviolet C (UVC) light and bipolar ionization also show promise, but research on their effectiveness against COVID-19 is still evolving.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMar 17, 2021
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.
A study published in Infection Control & Hospital Epidemiology found that high speed air hand dryers spread more contamination than paper towels, with levels of surface contamination 10 times higher after air dryer use. Microbes can also transfer to clothing and other surfaces via contaminated hands.
SourceSociety for Healthcare Epidemiology of America·JournalInfection Control and Hospital Epidemiology·DateMar 17, 2021
Researchers at New York University discovered that birds' looped airways facilitate one-way flows of air, allowing them to perform complex tasks like flying across oceans and high altitudes. This finding offers new insights into aerodynamics and potential applications in flow engineering for respiratory ventilators and other technologies.
SourceNew York University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 16, 2021
A new study found that some air purifiers, marketed for COVID-19, can create a suite of other pollutants. The devices, which use ionizing technology, can decrease some VOCs but increase others, including harmful substances like formaldehyde and ozone.
SourceColorado State University·JournalBuilding and Environment·DateMar 16, 2021
Researchers have made a breakthrough in developing passive quantum error correction, which could enable the creation of fault-tolerant quantum computers. The technology has the potential to revolutionize various fields, including artificial intelligence, materials science, and biochemical engineering.
SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalNature·DateMar 16, 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.
Researchers at Shinshu University have developed an acoustic cloaking structure that can operate in both air and water. The design uses finite element analysis to optimize the material selection and acoustics properties, enabling functionality in a wide frequency band.
SourceShinshu University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 11, 2021
Researchers found that portable HEPA air purifiers can significantly reduce in-air aerosols and spread of SARS-CoV-2, suggesting optimal placement directly in front of the person or instrument expelling aerosols. A ventilation rate of 288 cubic meters per hour is recommended for each person within the room.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateMar 9, 2021
Researchers at the University of Trento have discovered that dandelion clocks can trap air when submerged in water, leading to the development of new materials that could be used in underwater operations. The discovery was made by students and professors who were inspired by a observation made by a high school student.
SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalMaterials Today Bio·DateMar 3, 2021