Energy system models fail to accurately represent energy storage, potentially leading to unreliable grid operations and increased costs. Leading researchers from Argonne National Laboratory highlight the need for improved models to accommodate new technologies like solar power and grid energy storage.
SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateSep 14, 2023
A team of researchers has made breakthroughs in harnessing low-grade heat sources for efficient energy conversion. They developed a highly efficient Thermally Regenerative Electrochemical Cycle (TREC) system that converts small temperature differences into usable energy.
SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 14, 2023
Researchers at MIT and partners have discovered that variations in lithium ion flow rates are correlated with differences in carbon coating thickness, which could lead to improved battery efficiency. This technique allows for the extraction of insights from nanoscale data, offering potential applications beyond battery technology.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateSep 13, 2023
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have discovered a previously unknown reaction mechanism that addresses the major shortcoming of lithium-sulfur batteries - their very short lifetimes. The new pathway prevents sulfur loss and performance decline in commercial-size cells, paving the way for more sustainable transportation options.
SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateSep 7, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
Researchers used X-ray tomoscopy to study freeze casting processes, observing the formation of complex, hierarchically structured materials with large surface areas. The technique provided high spatial and temporal resolution, revealing the dynamics of directional ice crystal growth and the formation of organic-looking structures.
SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2023
A new battery design without a membrane has been developed by researchers at the University of Cincinnati, offering higher energy density and lower costs. The battery can generate nearly 4 volts of power, eliminating costly and inefficient membrane-separators.
SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2023
Researchers have developed a lab-on-a-chip electrochemical testing platform to speed up the production of catalysts for Li-CO2 batteries. The new method enables quick screening of materials, studying reaction mechanisms, and practical applications, potentially contributing to negative emissions technologies.
SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023
Researchers at Graz University of Technology are developing a sustainable electricity storage system using AI optimisation and vanillin as the storage medium. The project aims to create an environmentally friendly system with high efficiency and safety for industry and renewable energy applications.
SourceGraz University of Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2023
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.
Researchers developed a free-standing LiPON film that promotes uniformly dense lithium metal electrochemical deposition under zero external pressure, opening the door to lithium metal solid-state batteries. The new approach yields fresh insights into LiPON's properties and interfaces.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2023
Researchers have successfully grown high-quality single-crystalline T-Nb2O5 thin films with two-dimensional vertical ionic transport channels, enabling fast and dramatic changes in electrical properties. The material undergoes a significant electrical change upon Li insertion, allowing it to switch from an insulator to a metal.
SourceMax-Planck-Institut für Mikrostrukturphysik·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2023
Researchers develop low-cost, scalable energy storage system using cement and carbon black. The technology facilitates renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and tidal power by providing stable energy networks.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 31, 2023
Researchers at the University of Córdoba have designed a solar battery that can absorb light and store energy using a new material composed of 2D carbon nitride. This device combines optical simulations and photoelectrochemical experiments to achieve high performance, with potential applications in various fields.
SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2023
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Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
The research uses paraffin wax-filled tubes to absorb impact and heat, protecting nearby battery cells from damage. The design improves the safety and reliability of electric vehicles by minimizing potential damage from crashes or thermal issues.
SourceFlorida State University·JournalStructures·DateJul 27, 2023
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed a new type of battery using aluminum foil that shows promising performance for safer, cheaper, and more powerful batteries. The batteries have higher energy density and greater stability than conventional lithium-ion batteries.
SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 19, 2023
A team of researchers has designed an all-season thermal cloak that can cool electric vehicles by 8°C on hot days and warm them by 6.8°C at night without any external energy input. The cloak works through radiative cooling, using an effect called photon recycling to counteract temperature fluctuations during winter months.
SourceCell Press·JournalDevice·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 11, 2023
A new flow battery design has achieved a record-breaking 60% increase in peak power using a dissolved simple sugar called β-cyclodextrin, which boosts battery capacity and longevity. The battery maintained its energy storage and release capabilities for over a year without significant loss of activity.
SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 10, 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.
Researchers from Tokyo Tech have developed a new strategy to produce solid electrolytes with enhanced lithium-ion conductivity, preserving their superionic conduction pathways. The proposed design rule enables the synthesis of high-entropy active materials for millimeter-thick battery electrodes.
SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 6, 2023
Researchers developed a novel battery electrode degradation diagnosis technology using digital twin technology, accurately diagnosing internal structure changes in virtual environments. This breakthrough innovation aims to identify root causes of performance degradation and offers precise measurements of electrochemical properties.
SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateJul 4, 2023
A Portland State professor is studying the environmental consequences of the renewable energy transition, including lithium mining and battery manufacturing. The research aims to balance benefits with burdens on underserved communities, through interviews, focus groups, and workshops.
Scientists discovered that a thin layer of charged lithium atoms moving across anode and cathode is crucial for the battery's excellent performance. The discovery could lead to more energy-dense, safer, and faster-charging batteries.
SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2023
Researchers have developed a hybrid battery system that stores electricity and produces valuable chemicals, such as furfuryl alcohol and furoic acid. The new battery increases the cost efficiency of the battery system, making it a step towards improving the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of rechargeable batteries.
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 Shibaura Institute of Technology have developed a faster way to synthesize CoSn(OH)6, a powerful catalyst required for high-energy lithium–air batteries. The new method uses solution plasma-based synthesis and achieves highly crystalline CSO crystals with improved catalytic properties.
SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalSustainable Energy & Fuels·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2023
Researchers have developed a high-energy cathode, Na4MnCr(PO4)3, capable of three-electron reactions. The material exhibits an ultra-high energy density of 523.6 Wh kg^-1, outperforming existing phosphate cathodes.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 22, 2023
Osaka Metropolitan University scientists have developed a solid electrolyte material for all-solid-state batteries, enabling rapid movement of lithium ions at room temperature. The achievement brings closer the realization of all-solid-state batteries and their adoption in electric vehicles.
SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023
A research team has developed an organic redox polymer that surpasses the capacity of graphite, enabling aluminium-ion batteries to store up to 167 milliampere hours per gram. The battery retains 88% of its capacity after 5,000 charge cycles at 10 C.
SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJun 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.
Chronic exposure to low levels of contaminant metals through household items, air, water, soil, and food increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Monitoring environmental metal levels and testing for exposure are key steps to implement public health initiatives.
SourceAmerican Heart Association·JournalCirculation·DateJun 12, 2023
Researchers found that rail-based mobile energy storage can cost-effectively provide backup power for extreme events, potentially saving the power sector up to 60% of transmission line costs. The US rail network has the capacity to bring energy where it's needed, and this technology could work well in regions with robust freight capaci...
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateJun 12, 2023
Researchers investigated the tradeoff between reducing CO2 emissions and increasing renewable energy supply in office buildings. They found that access to the power grid can mitigate the impact of weather variability, but extreme weather events increase battery storage costs.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal of Building Engineering·DateJun 11, 2023
A new study estimates that the overall benefits of switching ride-hailing vehicles from gasoline to electric would be very modest, with a 3% gain per trip. The study found that traffic-related factors, such as congestion and crash risk, dominate societal costs, outweighing emissions reductions.
SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 8, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers have successfully characterized a single atom using X-ray beams, detecting its elemental type and chemical properties. This breakthrough could revolutionize fields like quantum information technology, environmental science, and medical research by enabling the study of individual atoms.
SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJun 7, 2023
Researchers used X-ray computed tomography to visualize dendrite failure in unprecedented detail, revealing separate processes driving initiation and propagation of cracks. The findings point to overcoming technological challenges of lithium metal solid-state batteries, which could improve EV battery range, safety, and performance.
SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 7, 2023
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory discovered a method to press solid electrolytes, eliminating air pockets that block ion flow and increasing conductivity by nearly 1,000 times. This breakthrough enables unprecedented control over internal structure, paving the way for industrial-scale processing and more reliable batteries.
SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateJun 6, 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.
Researchers from GIST have developed a hydrotropic-supporting electrolyte to enhance the solubility of organic redox molecules in aqueous systems. This improvement enables the creation of high-energy-density electrochemical capacitors with potential applications in redox flow batteries.
SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 1, 2023
Researchers at NIMS developed an artificial zinc coating that prevents electrochemical deactivation in magnesium metal anodes, even in dry air. This breakthrough could enable the production of rechargeable magnesium batteries using existing lithium-ion battery lines.
SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2023
Long-duration energy storage (LDES) is crucial for US states with decarbonization goals to address variable energy generation and customer demands. LDES systems can store renewable energy until needed, providing a reliable solution for a decarbonized grid.
SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Energy Storage·DateMay 25, 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.
Researchers at Penn State discovered that coal can act as a geological hydrogen battery, storing hydrogen for future use. The team found that coal's unique structure and properties make it an ideal material for hydrogen storage, with low-volatile bituminous coal performing best in tests.
A machine learning model uses patterns in mineral associations to predict previously unknown mineral occurrences, including geologically important minerals like uraninite and rutherfordine. The model also identified promising areas for critical rare earth element and lithium minerals.
A study found that Chinese electric vehicles (EVs) create up to 53% less emissions over their full life cycle than internal combustion engine vehicles by 2030. Increased operating efficiency and a cleaner electricity mix are key drivers of these reductions.
Researchers at Rice University developed a new priming method to optimize prelithiation in silicon anodes, improving battery life cycles by up to 44% and energy density. The method uses stabilized lithium metal particles with surfactants, enabling more stable SEI layer formation and reduced lithium depletion.
SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2023
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.
George Mason University Assistant Professor Chao Luo is proposed $260,000 from NSF for collaborative research on organic molecule structure design concept for low-cost and high-performance organic catholyte materials for non-aqueous Mg-organic hybrid redox flow batteries
Robert House, a Senior Research Fellow at Oxford University, has been selected as one of Forbes Magazine's prestigious 30 people to watch under 30 in Europe Science and Healthcare. He is working on developing innovative, sustainable Na-ion battery materials that promise to be significantly lower cost than conventional Li-ion batteries.
Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a zinc-air battery with an open circuit voltage of over 2V, overcoming the major bottleneck for metal-air batteries. By arranging acidic/alkaline electrolytes in tandem, they were able to generate a higher voltage and improve output power density.
SourceTohoku University·JournalAPL Energy·DateMay 9, 2023
Researchers developed a mechanically tough gel electrolyte to protect lithium metal anodes, significantly improving cycling stability. The achievement may facilitate practical use of high-performance lithium metal anodes in batteries.
SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2023
Researchers are working on a new concept for lithium-air batteries that could lead to significant improvements in energy storage capacity. A collaborative project in Germany aims to test new materials and components to enhance the stability of these battery cells. The goal is to overcome technical challenges such as unstable electrolyt...
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.
Researchers are working to develop battery cells that can be easily recycled, reducing the environmental impact of electric cars. The goal is to unlock the full potential of electric vehicles by reusing valuable materials in batteries.
SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 4, 2023
Researchers developed a high-performance 2D pseudocapacitive multi-electron reaction lithium storage material, exhibiting high capacity and ultrafast charging capabilities. The material showed improved electronic and ionic conductivity, reducing polarization and increasing overall energy density.
SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 27, 2023
Researchers at Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics have developed an air-breathing cathode for alkaline nickel-zinc batteries, improving cycling stability and energy efficiency. The novel battery exhibits ultra-long lifespan and high energy efficiency, surpassing conventional Ni-Zn batteries.
SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 26, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
The WVU SMARTER center aims to improve mobility in rural areas through self-driving cars, ride-sharing services, and bike sharing. The center will develop infrastructure and technology barriers to ensure accessibility for all people.
A team of researchers at Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia has developed a totally edible and rechargeable battery cell, utilizing riboflavin and quercetin as anode and cathode. The battery can provide current for small electronic devices and may have applications in health diagnostics, food quality monitoring, and edible soft robotics.
SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 13, 2023
The increasing adoption of electric vehicles will significantly raise the global demand for battery-grade critical metals, leading to supply chain disruptions. By mid-century, the need for lithium could more than double, while nickel demand is expected to eclipse other critical metals.
SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 11, 2023
Researchers have developed a new design of cathode materials in Li-Cl2 batteries, achieving high specific capacities of up to 2000 mAh/g and stable performance for over 500 cycles. The use of NH2-functionalized MOFs enhances the redox reaction kinetics and improves low-temperature stability.
SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalJoule·DateApr 8, 2023
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.
Researchers at Drexel University have developed a new method that combines UV-visible spectroscopy with cyclic voltammetry to track ion movement in batteries and supercapacitors. This breakthrough could lead to the design of higher performing energy storage devices.
SourceDrexel University·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2023
Researchers developed a new technique to make solid-state electrolytes safer and more efficient for solid-state batteries, addressing the dendrite growth problem. The new approach creates a barrier layer that slows down dendrite growth and promotes their quick elimination, making the battery safer and more reliable.
SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 2023
Researchers at IISc have developed a novel ultramicro supercapacitor with enhanced electrochemical capacitance, exceeding 3000% increase in capacitance under certain conditions. The device uses Field Effect Transistors as charge collectors and solid gel electrolyte for improved electron mobility.
SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateMar 31, 2023
A new mechanochemical recycling method recovers up to 70 percent of lithium from battery waste, making it inexpensive, energy-efficient, and environmentally compatible. The method uses aluminum as a reducing agent and can be applied to various cathode materials.
SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 2023
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.
The research demonstrates that low concentration ether-based electrolyte can successfully endure the long-term high voltage operation of practical LMB. The findings show that regulating solvation structure and adjusting surficial electric double layer can prevent degradation and improve performance.
SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 21, 2023
Researchers from the University of Illinois have developed a new theory that explains how convection occurs inside reactive porous media, shedding light on mass and heat transfer principles. The theory introduces a spectral Sherwood number and extends Newton's law of cooling for convection heat transfer to transient conditions.
SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateMar 21, 2023
Researchers found that strategically placing charging stations, especially at workplaces and in delayed home settings, can reduce peak electricity demand, store solar energy, and conveniently meet drivers' needs. This approach could help minimize the strain on the grid and avoid costly new power plants.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateMar 15, 2023
Researchers have used crab shells to create anode materials for sodium-ion batteries, which could lead to more sustainable battery technologies. The team found that the porous structure of the crab carbon provided a large surface area, enhancing its conductivity and ability to transport ions efficiently.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Omega·DateMar 13, 2023
Researchers pioneered a technique to observe the 3D internal structure of rechargeable batteries, enabling direct observation of the solid electric interface (SEI) and its progression. The study reveals key predictors of SEI layer formation in a complex interplay of molecular dimensions, surface properties, and solvent interactions.
SourceLancaster University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023
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Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.