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Roadmap to a carbon-neutral refinery by 2050

Researchers from Utrecht University introduce a vision for a completely fossil-free refinery, which would convert CO2, plastic, and biomass waste into useful raw materials. The refinery would require massive amounts of renewable energy and significant investments, but could potentially reduce greenhouse gas emissions significantly.

SourceUtrecht University, Faculty of Science·JournalNature·DateMay 8, 2024

Longer-lasting and more sustainable green hydrogen production

Researchers at RIKEN have improved the stability of a green hydrogen production process by using a custom-made catalyst, increasing its lifetime by almost 4,000 times. The breakthrough uses earth-abundant materials, making it more sustainable and potentially cost-effective for widespread industrial use.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Catalysis·DateApr 26, 2024

A simple ‘twist’ improves the engine of clean fuel generation

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed low-cost light-harvesting semiconductors that power devices for converting water into clean hydrogen fuel using sunlight. By growing copper oxide crystals in a specific orientation, they improved performance by an order of magnitude and increased stability.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateApr 24, 2024
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.

Energy-friendly ammonia production for fertilizers and alternative fuel

Researchers have discovered a greener way to produce ammonia, essential for fertilizers, by developing a new catalyst that works stably at relatively low temperatures. This breakthrough reduces the amount of energy needed to synthesize ammonia, making it an attractive alternative to fossil fuels.

SourceRIKEN·JournalChemical Science·DateApr 15, 2024

Sandia studies subterranean storage of hydrogen

Researchers found that hydrogen can be stored in depleted oil and gas reservoirs without getting stuck, as long as the rock is properly sealed. The study also showed that residual natural gas can be released from the rock into the hydrogen when injected, making it a potentially viable option for seasonal and long-term storage.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 9, 2024

Research lights up process for turning CO2 into sustainable fuel

A team of researchers has successfully transformed CO2 into methanol using sunlight and single atoms of copper deposited on a light-activated material. The new process could create highly selective and tuneable catalysts where the desired product can be dialled up by controlling the catalyst at the nanoscale.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalSustainable Energy & Fuels·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2024

Evolving hydrogen-storage technology: guidelines developed for the design of anti-evaporation catalysts

A research team identified manganese oxide and cobalt oxide as effective catalysts for accelerating ortho-to-para conversion of molecular hydrogen. The study provides guidelines for designing anti-evaporation catalysts, which are crucial for long-distance hydrogen transportation.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalExploration·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 5, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Ammonia attracts the shipping industry, but researchers warn of its risks

A study from Chalmers University of Technology found that the production and use of ammonia as a marine fuel can lead to eutrophication, acidification, and emissions of potent greenhouse gases. Researchers warn that the pursuit of low-carbon fuels may create new environmental challenges.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalApplied Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 5, 2024

Efficiently moving urea out of polluted water is coming to reality

Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have developed a material to selectively oxidize urea in water, producing hydrogen gas. The material, made of nickel and cobalt atoms with tailored electronic structures, enables the efficient conversion of urea into hydrogen through an electrochemical reaction.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2024

Using idle trucks to power the grid with clean energy

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.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·DateJan 12, 2024

Revolutionizing stable and efficient catalysts with Turing structures for hydrogen production

Researchers from City University of Hong Kong developed a novel strategy to engineer stable and efficient ultrathin nanosheet catalysts using Turing structures. This approach effectively resolves the instability problem associated with low-dimensional materials in catalytic systems, enabling efficient and long-lasting hydrogen production.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2024
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.

New material allows for better hydrogen-based batteries and fuel cells

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.

SourceRIKEN·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateDec 21, 2023

A PEM fuel cell inspired by the structure of a lung

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.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalElectrochimica Acta·DateDec 19, 2023

Syngas photocatalysis made easy

Researchers have developed a novel photocatalyst system that enables the production of syngas from methane steam reforming under atmospheric pressure. The system harnesses sunlight to split methane and water into hydrogen and carbon monoxide, forming syngas.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateNov 21, 2023

GIST researchers improve water splitting reaction for green hydrogen gas production

Researchers from GIST have developed a new electrode using Schottky junctions to overcome the conductance limit of active catalysts, achieving high-performance water splitting and hydrogen evolution reactions. The electrode demonstrated remarkable current density and durability during continuous operation for 10 days.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalApplied Catalysis B Environment and Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2023

Ammonia fuel offers great benefits but demands careful action

Researchers at Princeton University found that an ammonia economy can help achieve decarbonization goals, but it poses risks if not managed properly. The widespread use of ammonia could lead to significant emissions of nitrous oxide and nitrogen oxides, affecting air quality, water quality, and ecosystems.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 13, 2023
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Major EU grant will make metal alloys the catalysts of the future

Researchers will investigate high-entropy materials to create more sustainable and durable catalysts. The goal is to improve the efficiency of electrocatalysis, paving the way for a new generation of catalysts and reducing the reliance on rare and expensive materials.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·DateNov 1, 2023

New catalyst could provide liquid hydrogen fuel of the future

Researchers at Lund University have demonstrated a method for converting isopropanol into hydrogen using a solid catalyst, paving the way for a liquid fuel that can be delivered at a pump. The process has the potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and could be used in larger vehicles such as buses and aircraft.

SourceLund University·JournalCatalysis Science & Technology·DateOct 12, 2023

UTSA study could remove carbon emissions from atmosphere

Researchers at UTSA have been awarded a grant to develop a new technology that converts carbon dioxide into a raw material for producing chemical products. The project has the potential to create a productive area of catalysis research and reduce greenhouse emissions.

SourceUniversity of Texas at San Antonio·DateOct 12, 2023

Predicting the sustainability of a future hydrogen economy

A new study analyzes challenges in sustainably meeting different hydrogen demand scenarios on a country-by-country basis. The research finds that less than half of projected 2050 demand for hydrogen fuel could be produced locally using wind or solar power due to land and water scarcity.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 21, 2023
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.

Sustainable energy for aviation: What are our options?

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.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalProgress in Aerospace Sciences·DateSep 20, 2023

Predictive model could improve hydrogen station availability

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.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·TypeMeta-analysis·DateSep 19, 2023

Researchers unveil a new, economical approach for producing green hydrogen

A new study from the University of Colorado at Boulder has developed an economical approach for producing green hydrogen, a precursor to liquid fuels. The method uses heat generated by solar rays to split molecules of water and carbon dioxide into hydrogen and carbon monoxide, which can be converted into fuels like gasoline and diesel.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalJoule·DateAug 16, 2023
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.

Ammonia as a carbon-free hydrogen carrier for fuel cells: a perspective

Researchers discuss the potential of using ammonia as a hydrogen carrier for on-site power generation via ammonia decomposition. The high hydrogen content (17.6 wt%) and low toxicity make it an attractive alternative to traditional hydrogen storage methods, but challenges such as leakage and toxicity need to be addressed.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 8, 2023

New photocatalytic system converts carbon dioxide to valuable fuel more efficiently than natural photosynthesis

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...

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2023

Solar hydrogen: Barriers for charge transport in metal oxides

Researchers investigated the diffusion lengths of charge carriers in metal oxides and found that they are poorly understood. The study analyzed ten metal oxide compounds and found that their mobilities were very low compared to conventional semiconductors. However, heat treatment improved mobility in some materials.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2023

Public support hydrogen and biofuels to decarbonise global shipping

A new study finds public backing for biofuel and hydrogen as alternative fuels to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the global shipping industry. The research suggests that nuclear power is also a viable option, while ammonia has the least public support due to its perceived risks.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·JournalEnvironment Development and Sustainability·TypeSurvey·DateJul 6, 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.

New recipes for better solar fuel production

A team of researchers from China and the UK has developed new ways to optimise the production of solar fuels by creating novel photocatalysts. These photocatalysts, such as titanium dioxide with boron nitride, can absorb more wavelengths of light and produce more hydrogen compared to traditional methods.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalApplied Surface Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2023

Chemists unravel reaction mechanism for clean energy catalyst

Researchers at Brookhaven Lab used pulse radiolysis to study a key class of water-splitting catalysts, revealing the direct involvement of ligands in the reaction mechanism. The team discovered that a hydride group jumped onto the Cp* ligand, proving its active role in the process.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 2023

Unlocking the power of photosynthesis for clean energy production

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.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 10, 2023
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.

New hydrogen-powered electric aircraft research set for take-off

Researchers at the University of Bath are developing a new power system for zero-emissions electric aircraft using liquid hydrogen fuel. The project aims to create a reliable and efficient superconducting DC distribution network, reducing environmental impact and noise in air travel.

SourceUniversity of Bath·DateApr 4, 2023

Probe where the protons go to develop better fuel cells

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...

SourceKyushu University·JournalChemistry of Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2023
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.

New simulation reveals secrets of exotic form of electrons called polarons

Researchers have developed a new simulation method to study polarons in 2D materials, which could lead to breakthroughs in OLED TVs and hydrogen fuel production. The study uses quantum mechanical theory and computation to determine the fundamental properties of polarons in 2D materials.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 22, 2023

Switching to hydrogen fuel could prolong the methane problem

Researchers from Princeton University found that hydrogen emissions can lead to an increase in atmospheric methane, canceling out climate benefits. They identified thresholds for managing hydrogen emissions to avoid this consequence.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Climate Change·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 13, 2023

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
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Novel protective layer for catalysts developed by GIST scientists improves life and performance

A team of researchers from GIST created a protection layer for nickel-iron catalysts using tetraphenylporphyrin, increasing their life and performance. This innovation reduces the dissolution of iron atoms during oxygen evolution reactions, resulting in prolonged hydrogen production.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2023

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
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.

Good vibrations turbo charge green hydrogen production

Engineers at RMIT University have developed a method to boost green hydrogen production through electrolysis by up to 14 times using high-frequency vibrations. This innovation tackles the high cost of electrode materials and eliminates the need for corrosive electrolytes, making it cheaper and more efficient.

SourceRMIT University·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2022

WPI researchers create method for making net-zero aviation fuel

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.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalFuel·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 29, 2022

Researchers create green fuel with the flip of a light switch

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.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 24, 2022

Catalyzing clean energy

Researchers at Lehigh University have secured $13.2 million in funding to improve hydrogen generation and carbon capture/sequestration technologies through a partnership with Georgia Tech's UNCAGE-ME Center. The goal is to develop catalysts that can mitigate the degradation of these technologies in real-world conditions.

SourceLehigh University·DateNov 14, 2022
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.

Tapping into seawater's energetic potential

A KAUST-led team creates selective anode catalysts for stable and efficient hydrogen evolution in seawater splitting. The nanoreactors exhibited high electrocatalytic activity and stability due to their unique structure, isolating the electrolysis from side reactions.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalChem Catalysis·DateOct 30, 2022

Green hydrogen: Short-term scarcity, long-term uncertainty

A new study suggests that green hydrogen will likely supply less than 1% of global energy by 2035 due to supply bottlenecks. However, historic analogues indicate that emergency-like policy measures can drive unprecedented growth rates in energy technologies.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 8, 2022

Super-dense packing of hydrogen molecules on a surface

Researchers have demonstrated that hydrogen condenses on a surface at low temperatures, forming a super-dense monolayer with a volume of just 5 liters per kilogram H2. This breakthrough could enable more efficient cryogenic hydrogen storage systems for the coming hydrogen economy.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 5, 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
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Chung-Ang University researchers develop novel heterostructure catalyst for effective hydrogen generation from water splitting

Scientists at Chung-Ang University have created a new catalyst that can efficiently generate hydrogen from water without the need for expensive noble metals. The innovative heterostructured material boosts both the half-reactions, improving its overall performance and paving the way for large-scale industrial applications.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 2022

Organic water splitters get a boost

A KAUST-led team developed organic semiconductor-based photocatalysts to store solar energy as clean hydrogen fuel. These catalysts can absorb visible light and generate long-lived charges, improving efficiency for hydrogen evolution.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Energy·DateJun 9, 2022

Hydrogen production method opens up clean energy possibilities

A new energy-efficient way to produce hydrogen gas from ethanol and water has been developed, enabling on-site production at fueling stations. This innovation could make clean hydrogen fuel a more viable alternative for gasoline-powered cars, reducing the need for hazardous high-pressure hydrogen gas transportation.

SourceWashington State University·JournalApplied Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2022