Researchers at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology have developed a record-breaking lithium-metal battery with an energy density of 560 Wh/kg, retaining 88% capacity after 1000 cycles. The battery features a nickel-rich cathode and a dual-anion ionic liquid electrolyte, which significantly improves stability.
Long-term simulations show that smart land management, such as organic farming and protected refuge areas, can help stabilize threatened bumblebee species. Climate change is expected to have the strongest total effect on bumblebees, threatening many species.
A study by KIT researchers found that stopping further expansion of wind energy use in scenic areas could increase power generation costs by up to 7 cents per kilowatt hour and CO2 emissions by up to 200 grams per kilowatt hour. This may require alternative renewable energy sources like solar or bioenergy.
The BrineMine project develops strategies and technologies to extract valuable resources while minimizing environmental impact. Researchers have identified a method for efficient silica removal, enabling simultaneous extraction of drinking water and mineral resources.
A new sweet sorghum variety called KIT1 has been developed by Dr. Adnan Kanbar, accumulating particularly high amounts of sugar and thriving under temperate climate conditions. The estimated sugar yield per hectare is over 4.4 tons, corresponding to almost 3,000 liters of bioethanol.
Scientists have designed metamaterials that can produce rotons, quasiparticles that behave like free particles, without using quantum effects under normal conditions. These materials could enable the manipulation of sound waves in ways previously impossible, such as bouncing or redirecting them.
A KIT research team developed a new statistical method to improve global forecasts, enabling more accurate seasonal meteorological forecasts on the regional level. This can help mitigate local consequences of climate change, such as droughts and floods, by providing early warning of wet or dry periods.
Researchers from KIT and universities in Göttingen and Toronto develop machine learning methods to simulate material behavior, achieving high accuracy and speed. Hybrid methods combining machine learning and molecular mechanics are also suggested to accelerate simulations of large biomolecules.
Researchers from KIT and Wageningen University created new high-resolution maps called HILDA+ that reveal global land-use changes have affected nearly one-third of the land area in just six decades. The study found land-use changes are about four times as extensive as previously known.
A study by Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) found that personal opinions on purchasing security, environmental protection, and work conditions play a significant role in deciding whether to shop online or locally. The study used microeconometric models to analyze the shopping habits of 1,400 consumers in the Middle Upper-Rhine R...
A recent study by Karlsruhe Institute of Technology found that children's mental health promotes physical activity during COVID-19 lockdowns. The research team analyzed data from over 1,700 children and adolescents and discovered a strong correlation between good mental health and increased physical activity.
Researchers at KIT and Chimie ParisTech/CNRS create light-addressable qubit using europium(III) rare-earth ions, advancing quantum computer development. The molecule's nuclear spin levels can be polarized with light, enabling efficient processing of data in parallel.
Scientists from KIT's Institute of Microstructure Technology and Light Technology Institute have developed a new model to calculate photoluminescence quantum efficiency of perovskite films. The results reveal that the actual efficiency is significantly lower than previously estimated, with an estimated 78% compared to predicted 90%. Th...
Scientists have developed a new generation of thermomagnetic generators that can convert waste heat into electrical power at small temperature differences. The devices, based on Heusler alloy films, increased electrical power per footprint by a factor of 3.4 and reached a maximum power of 50 microwatts per square centimeter.
KIT researchers have developed biodegradable printed displays using natural materials and industrially relevant production methods. These displays are compostable and can be reused or recycled, reducing electronic waste and environmental impacts.
The KIT real-world lab 'Robotic Artificial Intelligence' will develop concrete practical applications of robotic AI with civil society and study opportunities as well as risks. Humanoid robots will be used in various scenarios, such as hospitals, schools, and libraries.
Dr. Tonya Vitova and Professor Laurent Schmalen are awarded ERC Consolidator Grants to study actinide bonds and develop energy-efficient communication technology. Their projects aim to improve the environmental behavior of actinides and reduce complexity and energy consumption in communication systems.
A study found that daily physical activity of children and adolescents increased during the lockdown, with an average of 36 minutes more activity per day. However, this was largely replaced by screen time, highlighting the need for alternative physical activities.
Researchers at KIT have developed new production technology to manufacture fuel cells for heavy goods vehicles, which can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 30% by 2030. The technology aims to accelerate production and reduce costs, making fuel cell energy a viable option for commercial vehicles.
A new diagnostic tool allows for the visualization of catalysts in three dimensions, enabling researchers to study complex chemical reactions and improve materials. The technique, operando X-ray spectroscopy, provides detailed information on the structure and function of active catalysts.
A research consortium has analyzed frequency fluctuations in 12 synchronous grid areas across three continents, revealing that bigger grids are more stable. The study used a new measurement technology and a portable GPS-synchronized recorder to collect high-resolution data.
A study published in PNAS found that global warming accelerates biodiversity loss, putting existing and proposed post-2020 biodiversity targets at risk. However, the authors suggest that dynamic responses to climate change through flexible conservation approaches can help protect biodiversity.
The EU's climate-neutral goal may be undermined by high imports of agricultural products from countries with lax environmental standards. The study recommends harmonizing sustainability standards and reducing fertilizer and pesticide use to achieve global sustainability.
Scientists have discovered a novel mechanism to increase arterial diameter by selectively increasing endothelial cell size, allowing for rapid increases in blood flow. This approach has significant advantages over conventional angiogenesis methods, enabling faster restoration of blood flow and oxygen delivery.
A comprehensive study by KIT and Auburn University finds that agricultural production is a major source of global nitrous oxide emissions, which contribute significantly to climate change. The study suggests that increasing food demand may further exacerbate the problem, highlighting the need for efficient nitrogen use in agriculture.
Researchers at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have discovered that noble metal clusters are more reactive than individual atoms, allowing for improved removal of exhaust gases. The clusters exhibit optimal structure for high activity, enabling the development of catalysts with enhanced stability and long-term performance.
Researchers create micro-scaffolds that stretch cells, triggering a response to external forces. The cells counteract deformation with motor proteins, increasing their tensile forces and adapting to dynamic environments.
Researchers measure CO2 concentration in the atmosphere and find no decrease despite estimated reductions of up to eight percent in 2020. Long-term changes are needed to reach Paris Climate Agreement goals, requiring cumulative reductions every year.
Scientists from KIT and Heidelberg University have developed a photoresist for two-photon microprinting, enabling the creation of three-dimensional polymer microstructures with cavities in the nano range. The novel material allows for controlled porosity and affects light scattering properties.
A team of researchers at KIT demonstrated that DNA damage can occur up to 30 DNA building blocks away from the entry point of UV radiation. This finding has significant implications for understanding DNA photodamage and its role in skin cancer.
Researchers at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have developed a novel concept for low-cost terahertz receivers that enable ultra-fast wireless communications at low cost. The proof-of-concept experiment demonstrated transmission at a data rate of 115 Gbit/s and a carrier frequency of 0.3 THz over a distance of 110 meters.
The EPIC project aims to accelerate electrode drying for lithium-ion batteries by increasing energy efficiency and reducing costs. Innovative drying management techniques are being developed and tested to improve the environmental performance and position Germany as a leading location for battery production.
Researchers developed a filtration system that combines a polymer membrane with activated carbon to eliminate estradiol in drinking water. The method achieves an efficiency of more than 99%, reaching the European Commission's reference value of 1 nanogram per liter.
Researchers at KIT have successfully modified gene sequences on a chromosome using CRISPR/Cas, enabling controlled inheritance. This breakthrough could revolutionize crop cultivation by eliminating genetic obstacles and introducing desirable traits.
Researchers developed a new material called porous liquids that can separate gas molecules of different sizes from each other. The material has the potential to replace traditional distillation methods and save up to 80% of energy used in the plastics industry.
Researchers at KIT and Jilin University developed lithium lanthanum titanate (LLTO) as a promising anode material for lithium-ion batteries. LLTO enables higher energy density, power density, and charging rate while improving safety and cycle life.
Scientists have developed a new method to measure rainfall in Germany using commercial microwave links, achieving high accuracy and temporal resolution. The technique involves analyzing signal attenuation caused by precipitation, with the help of artificial intelligence, and has been successfully tested for application in West Africa.
Scientists at KIT have successfully introduced genetic information into a multicellular cyanobacterium, Phormidium lacuna, using natural transformation. This breakthrough opens up possibilities for basic research and biotechnical applications, including the synthesis of biofuels like ethanol and hydrogen.
Experts demand a prominent target of 20 species extinctions per year to lower biodiversity loss rates and protect ecosystem services. The proposed target is comparable to the 2-degree climate target, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change.
The 'Testbench' project enhances the quality of efficiency measurements for solar power storage systems, facilitating comparison and standardization. The goal is to improve reproducibility and confirm the results, ultimately benefiting operators and manufacturers in the growing market.
Scientists at KIT have developed a programmable biohybrid material system that uses bacteria to generate power. The system consists of a nanocomposite and the Shewanella oneidensis bacterium, which produces electrons. The team achieved controlled electron flow with increasing bacterial cells on the conductive matrix.
Researchers from KIT participate in the Belle II accelerator experiment to enhance understanding of dark matter in the universe. They have now limited mass and coupling strengths of the Z' boson with previously unattainable accuracy using initial data collected during the startup phase.
Researchers found that increased CO2 levels reduced water loss and improved water use efficiency in trees during periods of drought and heat, but had no positive effect on carbon metabolism. The study suggests that the benefits of elevated CO2 are outweighed by the negative impacts of climate change.
The KIT team developed printable organic photodiodes that can detect varying wavelengths, enabling color selection and filterless multichannel visible light communication. These sensors are suitable for mobile devices and have the potential to be used in various applications, including the internet of things and Industry 4.0.
A study by Nora Szech and Jannis Engel reveals that consumers unconsciously use a single ethical aspect as an excuse for a less moral behavior regarding other aspects of the product. This 'indulgence effect' persists even after the purchase and can be used to justify selfish decisions.
Scientists at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have developed a system to print highly precise, centimeter-sized objects with submicrometer details at an unmatched speed. The new 3D printer produces speeds of about 10 million voxels per second, corresponding to the speed reached by graphical 2D inkjet printers.
A study published in Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics found that individuals with eating disorders use exercise as a coping mechanism for depressive mood and negative thoughts. Exercise can temporarily improve their mood, but this effect is short-lived, leading to a vicious cycle of increased exercise.
Researchers have developed novel nanocomposites of DNA, silica particles, and carbon nanotubes that can be tailored to various applications. These composites enable the creation of environments suitable for human stem cells to settle down and develop further.
Researchers at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) discover that subsiding air parcels from the Atlantic Ocean, rather than hot air from the Sahara, are responsible for extreme hot spells in central Europe. This finding has significant implications for developing early warning systems and improving forecasts.
A study published in Nature Neuroscience found that larger green areas in urban neighborhoods are associated with higher wellbeing. Participants who spent more time in green spaces showed reduced activity in the brain region responsible for processing negative emotions.