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Towards more efficient and eco-friendly thermoelectric oxides with hydrogen substitution

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have discovered a new approach to improve the performance of thermoelectric materials by substituting hydrogen for oxygen. This substitution reduces thermal conductivity while maintaining high electronic conductivity, leading to improved thermoelectric conversion efficiency.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

More predictable renewable energy could lower costs

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have found that more predictable solar or wind energy generation can save millions of dollars in operating costs and prevent clean energy spillage. By analyzing six existing solar farms, they discovered that optimal locations changed when predictability was considered, leading to significant in...

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPatterns·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 24, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

How a record-breaking copper catalyst converts CO2 into liquid fuels

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have developed a new technique that captures real-time movies of copper nanoparticles as they convert carbon dioxide into renewable fuels and chemicals. The study reveals that metallic copper nanograins serve as active sites for CO2 reduction, paving the way for advanced solar fuel technology.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 16, 2023

CityU unravels interfacial interactions of the lead-free perovskite for efficient hydrogen production

Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have developed a lead-free perovskite photocatalyst for highly efficient solar energy-to-hydrogen conversion. The study uncovers the interfacial dynamics between halide perovskite molecules and electrolytes, enabling better photoelectrochemical hydrogen generation.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2023
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.

Converting temperature fluctuations into clean energy with novel nanoparticles and heating strategy

A team at City University of Hong Kong has developed a novel approach to converting environmental temperature fluctuations into clean chemical energy using pyroelectric catalysis. By combining pyroelectric materials with localized plasmonic heat sources, the researchers achieved significantly faster and more efficient pyro-catalytic re...

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2023

Rolling in benefits: New method for effective compression of plant biomass for alternate fuel and anti-viral applications

Researchers from Okayama University developed a novel mechanical compression method to squeeze maximum benefits from plant biomass. The technique reduces energy consumption by eliminating the need for thermal drying, making it ideal for on-site operation and locally grown plants.

SourceOkayama University·JournalJournal of Material Cycles and Waste Management·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 4, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Best of both worlds: New elastic and durable crosslinked anion exchange membranes

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.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalJournal of Membrane Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 4, 2023

Paper-thin solar cell can turn any surface into a power source

MIT engineers create ultralight fabric solar cells that can generate 18 times more power-per-kilogram than conventional solar cells, making them ideal for wearable power fabrics or deployment in remote locations. The technology can be integrated into built environments with minimal installation needs.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalSmall Methods·DateDec 9, 2022

CityU develops two novel hydrogen production catalysts based on mineral gel and "crystalline-amorphous" dual-phase nano-aluminium alloy

Researchers from City University of Hong Kong developed a new ultra-stable hydrogen evolution reaction electrocatalyst based on two-dimensional mineral gel nanosheets. The catalyst exhibits excellent electrocatalytic activity and long-term durability, with an overpotential of only 38.5 mV at 10 mA cm−2.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2022

Engineers solve a mystery on the path to smaller, lighter batteries

Researchers at MIT discovered that mechanical stresses can prevent dendrites from forming in solid-state lithium batteries. The team developed a way to apply controlled pressure to divert the growth of dendrites, making lightweight batteries safer and more efficient.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJoule·DateNov 18, 2022

Funding awarded for an innovation to recover hydrogen from waste to help safeguard energy security

A team at the University of Manchester has received funding to develop a novel hydrogen separation technique, which could make clean energy production cheaper and more sustainable. The project aims to overcome cost barriers for commercial hydrogen extraction from unrecyclable wastes, supporting ambitious clean energy targets.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·TypeObservational study·DateNov 15, 2022
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Enlightened route to wireless communications

KAUST researchers have designed a smart glass system that can encode data into the light passing through it, allowing for wireless data transmission. The system uses polarization manipulation to eliminate flicker problems and can transmit data at rates of up to 16 Kilobits per second.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalIEEE Photonics Journal·DateNov 1, 2022

Dye-sensitized solar cells achieve a new record

Scientists at EPFL have developed a method to enhance the packing of photosensitizer dye molecules, resulting in DSCs with power conversion efficiencies of up to 28.4% and long-term operational stability. This breakthrough offers promising prospects for applications as power supply and battery replacement for low-power electronic devices.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·DateOct 26, 2022

Storing hydrogen fuel in salts — a step toward ‘cleaner’ energy production

Scientists have developed a method to store and release highly pure hydrogen using salts in the presence of amino acids, which could make large-scale hydrogen storage more feasible. The technique uses potassium salts, manganese-based catalysts, and amino acids to produce high-yield and pure hydrogen with minimal byproducts.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateOct 19, 2022

China’s control over solar manufacturing poses supply chain risk

The global solar industry faces a supply chain risk due to China's dominance in polysilicon production, which can lead to increased carbon intensity and human rights concerns. The US and Indian governments have pledged billions to boost domestic production and create a more resilient supply chain.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateSep 21, 2022
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Rooftop solar cells can be a boon for water conservation too

A study by Duke University researchers found that rooftop solar cells can save a significant amount of water, with households saving an average of 16,200 gallons per year. Converting to solar in homes reduces the use of grid electricity and therefore also the volume of water used.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 21, 2022

Decarbonizing the energy system by 2050 could save trillions, says new Oxford study

A new study suggests that transitioning to a decarbonized energy system by 2050 can save the world at least $12 trillion compared to continued fossil fuel use. The study shows that rapidly transitioning to clean energy results in lower energy system costs, provides more energy to the global economy, and expands energy access.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalJoule·TypeSystematic review·DateSep 13, 2022
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Optimizing wind flow simulations

Researchers at the University of Oldenburg and Fraunhofer IWES collaborate on a new project to develop more accurate wind flow simulations using artificial intelligence. The goal is to reduce computing times and enhance precision, ultimately accelerating innovation in wind turbine design.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·DateAug 26, 2022

Inefficient building electrification risks prolonging fossil fuels

A new study by Boston University School of Public Health found that decarbonization pathways need to incorporate more efficient electric heating technologies and renewable energy sources to minimize strain on the US electric grid. The researchers analyzed building energy data from March 2010 to February 2020 and found that winter heati...

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 28, 2022
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.

Ratcliff works to scale paper-thin solar technology

University of Arizona researchers Erin Ratcliff and Roger Angel are working on scaling paper-thin solar technology using perovskites. They aim to develop a low-cost quality control method to detect defects during manufacturing, enabling the production of robust and high-quality perovskite-based photovoltaics.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateJul 25, 2022

Novel multi-proton carrier complex as efficient proton conductor at high temperatures

A team of researchers from Tokyo University of Science has developed a novel multi-proton carrier complex that shows efficient proton conductivity even at high temperatures. The resulting starburst-type metal complex acts as a proton transmitter, making it 6 times more potent than individual imidazole molecules.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2022

These energy-packed batteries work well in extreme cold and heat

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed temperature-resilient lithium-ion batteries with high energy density, compatible with high-temperature operation. These batteries could enable electric vehicles to travel farther on a single charge in cold climates and reduce overheating in hot climates.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 4, 2022

New photocatalytic membrane that can be cleaned using light energy

A new nanosheet-laminated photocatalytic membrane has been successfully developed by Kobe University researchers, demonstrating excellent water permeance and photocatalytic activity. The membrane's photocatalytic properties make it easier to clean, reducing fouling and increasing its potential for tackling global environmental issues.

SourceKobe University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 4, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Biogas and biomethane supply chains leak twice as much methane as first thought

A new Imperial analysis found that biogas and biomethane supply chains release more than twice as much methane as previously estimated, with 62% of leaks concentrated in a few 'super-emitters'. The researchers call for better monitoring and fixing of leaks to ensure the continued use of these climate-friendly gases.

SourceImperial College London·JournalOne Earth·DateJun 17, 2022

Towards indoor lighting-powered thin-film, flexible solar cells with piezophototronics

Ritsumeikan University researchers create a novel thin-film flexible piezoelectric-photovoltaic device that can generate electricity from indoor lighting. The device's performance is improved through strain-induced polarization in the ZnMgO layer, increasing open-circuit voltage and overcoming charge recombination issues.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalNano Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2022

Recent papers in ACS Environmental Au

Recent papers in ACS Environmental Au explore the impact of aerosol acidity in the southeastern U.S. and the effects of environmental films on native ecosystems. The journal also investigates electrospun nanofibrous membranes for controlling airborne viruses.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Environmental Au·DateJun 2, 2022

Scientists synthesize material for fuel cells

Researchers at Ural Federal University have synthesized a proton conductor with high electrical conductivity, which could become the basis for solid oxide fuel cells. The new material is potentially cost-effective and exhibits higher electrical conductivity than other solid-state conductors.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateMay 30, 2022
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.

Nanoparticles that mimic plant pigment to deliver better solar panels

A team of engineers and biologists at the University of Surrey created nanoparticles that mimic chlorophyll's light-absorbing properties with high efficiency. The new approach shows promise for future high-efficiency solar panels, potentially ditching toxic materials used to maintain intensity.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateMay 30, 2022

New tech aims to drive down costs of hydrogen fuel

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new technique for extracting hydrogen gas from liquid carriers, making it faster, less expensive and more energy efficient. The new method uses sunlight and a reusable photocatalyst to release hydrogen molecules, reducing the need for rhodium and lowering production costs.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalChemSusChem·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2022

Tidal blade facility to be at leading edge of green energy testing

The world's first rapid testing facility for tidal turbine blades has opened, aiming to speed up development of marine energy technologies while reducing costs. The £4.6 million FastBlade facility uses powerful hydraulic cylinders to simulate stresses on blades over two decades in under three months.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·DateMay 13, 2022
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Towards more efficient, non-toxic, and flexible thin-film solar cells

Researchers at Ritsumeikan University in Japan have developed a new method to fabricate cadmium-free thin-film solar cells with improved energy conversion efficiency. The process replaces toxic materials with native buffer layers formed through air-annealing, reducing waste and increasing the potential for large-scale manufacturing.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalSolar RRL·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2022

Researchers at the GIST uncover the key to safer energy storage devices

The study reveals significant information on the thermal properties of electric double-layer capacitors, which can help create safer and more reliable energy storage devices. The research team found that charging and discharging alter the heat capacity of EDLCs, leading to a decrease in capacitance.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022

Import tariffs: an alternative to a European energy embargo against Russia

A team of economists proposes flexible import tariffs to reduce Russia's financial gains from its oil and gas exports, allowing EU to flexibly react to Moscow's actions in Ukraine. The measure could prove valuable in mid- and long-term efforts to become more independent of Russian oil and gas.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalScience·TypeCase study·DateApr 28, 2022

Study finds offshore wind could drive down energy costs in New England

A new analysis found that offshore wind power in New England could reduce wholesale electricity prices by $28.81 megawatts per hour, while lowering emissions consistently. However, extreme winter storms may cause temporary losses of power due to high wind speeds, but these events are rare and do not break the system.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnergy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 21, 2022
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.

How to clean solar panels without water

Researchers at MIT have developed a new system that can automatically clean solar panels without using water, reducing dust accumulation's impact on efficiency. The system uses electrostatic repulsion to detach dust particles, improving overall power output and potentially saving $200,000 in annual revenue.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 11, 2022

What will a CO2-neutral Switzerland cost us?

A study published in Frontiers in Energy Research calculates the costs of a CO2-neutral Switzerland, finding that three different energy systems would require significant investments and increased energy costs. The most efficient option is electrifying the entire energy supply, but this comes with the challenge of storing enough renewa...

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalFrontiers in Energy Research·TypeCase study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Power at sea: towards high-performance seawater batteries

A team of scientists from Korea Maritime and Ocean University has developed a novel synthesis route to produce a high-performance co-doped anode material for rechargeable seawater batteries. This breakthrough enables the creation of efficient and sustainable maritime applications, including emergency power supply for coastal nuclear pl...

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalCarbon·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2022
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

A new way to store sustainable energy: ‘information batteries’

Researchers propose a new way to store renewable energy by speculatively performing computations in large data centers when energy is abundant, and retrieving the results later. This approach offers better efficiency than traditional battery storage methods and could reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalACM SIGEnergy Energy Informatics Review·DateJan 31, 2022

Getting hydrogen out of banana peels

Scientists at EPFL have developed a novel method to convert banana peels into valuable hydrogen and solid-carbon biochar through flash pyrolysis using a Xenon lamp. This innovative technique generates around 100 liters of hydrogen per kg of dried biomass, making it a promising renewable energy solution.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalChemical Science·DateJan 25, 2022
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.

Molecular paddlewheels propel sodium ions through next-generation batteries

Researchers at Duke University have discovered paddlewheel-like molecular dynamics that help push sodium ions through a quickly evolving class of solid-state batteries. The insights will guide researchers in their pursuit of a new generation of sodium-ion batteries to replace lithium-ion technology.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2022

Korea Maritime & Ocean University researchers champion LPG as a green alternative ship fuel

Researchers from Korea Maritime & Ocean University found that using LPG as a marine fuel can reduce annual fuel consumption by 7.5-10.4%, fuel cost by 8.8-25.9%, and carbon dioxide emissions by 10-14%. The study also highlights the potential for promoting LPG as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fuels.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 11, 2022

Nano-chocolates that store hydrogen

Researchers have created nanoparticles that can store hydrogen, reducing the need for pressurized tanks and cooling. The discovery could enable climate-friendly fuels and production methods for airplanes, ships, and steel.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalACS Nano·DateDec 27, 2021

New device advances commercial viability of solar fuels

A new device has been developed that converts sunlight into two promising sources of renewable fuels – ethylene and hydrogen. The researchers found that by optimizing the working conditions for cuprous oxide, a promising artificial photosynthesis material, they can create a more stable system.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 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.

New smart-roof coating enables year-round energy savings

Scientists developed an all-season smart-roof coating that automatically switches between cooling and heating, outperforming commercial cool-roof systems in energy savings. The technology uses vanadium dioxide to regulate its rate of radiative cooling, overcoming the problem of overcooling in winter.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 2021

New version of organic electronics for rational management of energy

Researchers at the University of Malaga have developed a new version of organic electronics that can manage energy consumption more efficiently. The technology, known as spintronics, uses carbon-based molecules to expand electronic material versatility and functionality.

SourceUniversity of Malaga·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2021