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Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon


Offshore wind farms could alter precipitation patterns

A large-scale expansion of offshore wind energy could lead to increased precipitation over offshore wind farm areas, while precipitation in adjacent coastal regions could decrease. This is due to wind turbines extracting part of the wind's kinetic energy and increasing atmospheric turbulence.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 21, 2026

Recyclable ink for 3D printing

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon have developed a water-based, lignin-derived ink that can be fully recycled by adding water. The new ink's full recyclability offers a realistic pathway toward circular manufacturing in 3D printing.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2026

Stones for the climate

A new study by Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon investigates the impact of climate change on ocean's ability to sequester CO2. Researchers found that changes in weathering rates and rock properties affect alkalinity, with potential implications for global carbon cycling.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 27, 2023

Microplastics in the Indian Ocean

Researchers have developed a new analysis method that accurately measures microplastic particles and fibers in the Indian Ocean. The study found an average concentration of 50 microplastic particles per cubic meter, with paint particles and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) being the most common types.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2022

Flame-retardants and plasticizers found in the oceans

A new study finds that flame-retardants and plasticizers are present in the oceans, harming marine organisms and potentially affecting human health. The substances, which are widely used in everyday products, can be transported from inland sources to coastal environments through air masses and ocean currents.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalNature Reviews Earth & Environment·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 28, 2022

Industrial sedimentation in the North Sea

A new study analyzes sediment cores from the North Sea, showing a significant accumulation of pollutants since the industrial revolution. The researchers found that the deposition of pollutants is linked to fine sediments transported by currents, causing a strong accumulation on the seabed.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalEnvironmental Pollution·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 2, 2022

Offshore wind farms reshape the North Sea

Researchers found shifts in airflows and sea currents downwind of North Sea offshore wind farms, affecting plankton production and the food web structure. The turbines induce atmospheric wakes that redirect existing currents, leading to changed salinity distribution and mean temperatures.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 23, 2022

First lockdown brought better air

Researchers found a decline in pollutant concentrations worldwide during the 2020 lockdown, particularly in Central Europe. The study attributed these reductions to the lockdown's impact on sectors like road and air transport, but noted that weather conditions also played a significant role.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 21, 2021

Microplastics: A trojan horse for metals

Researchers have discovered that microplastics can serve as a transport vehicle for metals in the environment, accumulating and releasing these pollutants. The study found significant differences in metal accumulation between different types of plastics, with some metals attaching almost entirely to microplastics.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021

Corona gets us tired

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Hereon develop a novel model to quantify social phenomena during the Corona pandemic. The study reveals that social cohesion plays a crucial role in explaining regional mortality rates and behavioral changes.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 9, 2021

Combating maritime litter

A study categorizes existing solutions for combating maritime litter, revealing a need for more developed technologies and integrated approaches. The researchers recommend defining standards for each solution to encourage further development and create a sustainable approach.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJun 10, 2021

Better understanding membranes

Experts from the University of Goettingen and Hereon have developed new research strategies for polymer membranes, promising relatively inexpensive production and strong separation selectivity. Computer simulations will play a crucial role in understanding these systems.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalChemical Reviews·DateMay 26, 2021

High strength through hierarchy

Researchers develop hierarchical structure for lightweight materials by self-organization, creating a new type of exceptionally strong yet light material. The material's open network structure results in an impressive density reduction and mechanical properties superior to state-of-the-art materials.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalScience·DateMar 4, 2021

Artificial muscle sheets transform stem cells into bone

Researchers have developed a new method to transform stem cells into bone cells using an artificial muscle sheet with shape-memory function. This technology has potential applications in treating complex bone fractures by culturing stem cells on the sheet and adapting them to directly strengthen bones.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 13, 2020