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Crab shells could help power the next generation of rechargeable batteries

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.

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.

3D internal structure of rechargeable batteries revealed for the first time

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.

Electrocatalysis under the atomic force microscope

Researchers have developed a new approach to correlative atomic force microscopy, allowing for the simultaneous measurement of electrocatalyst properties. This study focuses on nanostructured copper-gold electrocatalysts and provides insights into catalyst-electrolyte interfaces, enabling targeted optimization.

3D battery imaging reveals the secret real-time life of lithium metal cells

A team from Chalmers University of Technology has developed a method to observe the formation of lithium microstructures in real-time using X-ray tomographic microscopy. This breakthrough aims to improve the safety and capacity of lithium metal batteries, which could replace traditional lithium-ion batteries in the future.

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.

The challenges of mining for electric-vehicle batteries

The Inflation Reduction Act's target for domestic EV battery mineral extraction is achievable for some plug-in hybrid vehicles but poses significant challenges for fully electric vehicles. A mass-based standard could reduce uncertainty and incentivize production of high-value minerals domestically.

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.

On the road to better solid-state batteries

A Berkeley Lab-led team has designed a new type of solid electrolyte consisting of a mix of various metal elements, resulting in a more conductive and less dependent material. The new design could advance solid-state batteries with high energy density and superior safety, potentially overcoming long-standing challenges.

New study takes close look at energy storage

Researchers analyze current state of solid-state battery technology, identifying key challenges such as developing solid electrolytes and anode materials. The study concludes that new approaches in material research are necessary to overcome these hurdles and achieve commercialization.

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.

Electric vehicles can go the distance

A study by University of Delaware researchers found that electric vehicles (EVs) with smaller batteries, combined with community charging, can meet the driving needs of a diverse range of drivers. The study analyzed data from 333 gasoline-fueled cars and modeled the ability of EVs to handle similar trips.

Progress toward fast-charging lithium-metal batteries

Researchers have made progress toward fast-charging lithium-metal batteries by growing uniform lithium crystals on a lithiophobic nanocomposite surface. This approach enables charging in about an hour, competitive with today's lithium-ion batteries and overcoming a significant roadblock to widespread use.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New sodium, aluminum battery aims to integrate renewables for grid resiliency

Researchers developed a new molten salt battery design using sodium and aluminum that can charge and discharge faster, operate at lower temperatures, and maintain excellent energy storage capacity. The battery's specific energy density could reach up to 100 Wh/kg, making it a promising solution for 10-plus hours of energy storage.

Researchers develop elastic material that is impervious to gases and liquids

Researchers developed an elastic material using liquid metal that resists both gases and liquids, offering a trade-off between elasticity and gas resistance. The material, created with gallium-indium alloy, has been tested to prevent the escape of oxygen and liquids, showing promising potential for use in high-value tech packaging

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.

How to develop better rechargeable aluminum batteries?

Researchers at Beijing Institute of Technology have developed new cathode materials using borophene to overcome the limitations of traditional aluminum anodes. The study reveals that coordination with chlorine ions enhances electron transfer, leading to increased capacities and improved cycling performance.

Recyclable mobile phone batteries a step closer with rust-busting invention

Researchers at RMIT University have developed a method to remove rust from nanomaterial MXene, extending its lifetime and making it suitable for recyclable batteries. The innovation uses high-frequency sound waves to restore the material's electrical conductivity, paving the way for up to three times longer battery life.

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.

Novel design helps develop powerful microbatteries

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a novel design for powerful microbatteries that can power tiny devices with high voltage and energy density. The batteries, which are hermetically sealed and compact, use innovative packaging technology and dense electrodes to achieve unprecedented performance.

Turning abandoned mines into batteries

Researchers developed a novel way to store energy by transporting sand into abandoned underground mines, creating a long-term energy storage solution. The technology generates electricity when the price is high and stores it when cheap, making it an effective and cost-efficient alternative to traditional batteries.

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

A greener internet of things with no wires attached

A new form of thin-film device technology using alternative semiconductor materials could contribute to a more sustainable IoT. Wireless power harvesting from the environment using photovoltaic cells and RF energy harvesters is being explored.

Strong metaphorical messages can help tackle toxic e-waste

A new study from the University of Portsmouth explores how to improve sustainable disposal of electronic waste. Researchers found that using metaphorical language, such as comparing battery pollution to Olympic swimming pools, increased recycling rates among consumers.

Making the unimaginable possible in materials discovery

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory develop a new method to create crystalline materials with two or more elements, yielding previously unknown compounds with exotic properties. The discovery has potential applications in superconductors, energy transmission, high-speed transportation, and energy-efficient microelectronics.

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.

UCF researchers create technology that harvests radio waves for energy

Researchers at the University of Central Florida have created a technology that converts radio frequency signals into direct current electricity, reducing the need for batteries in wireless systems. This innovation can help promote a more sustainable future by harnessing ambient energy from radio waves.

Bifunctional flexible electrochromic supercapacitors were successfully fabricated

Researchers have successfully fabricated bifunctional flexible electrochromic supercapacitors using silver nanowire flexible transparent electrodes. The devices can exhibit color changes to display energy status, offering potential for smart windows and wearable electronics. With excellent stability and high areal capacitance, these fl...

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.

Ingestible biobatteries could allow new view of digestive system

Researchers at Binghamton University have developed ingestible biobatteries that utilize microbial fuel cells with spore-forming Bacillus subtilis bacteria to power sensors and Wi-Fi connections. The biobatteries can generate up to 100 microwatts per square centimeter of power density, enough for wireless transmission.

X-rays reveal elusive chemistry for better EV batteries

Researchers at Brookhaven Lab and PNNL develop a new method to study the solid-electrolyte interphase in lithium metal batteries, revealing its convoluted chemistry. The team's findings provide a foundation for building more effective battery cells with higher energy density.

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.

Toward stable aqueous Zn-ion batteries

Researchers developed a new protective layer to stabilize Zn anode in aqueous Zn-ion batteries, improving cycling performance and lifespan. The NTP-C coated Zn electrode exhibits high corrosion potential, low nucleation overpotential, and stable cycling performance.

New monochromator optics for tender X-rays

The new monochromator optics increase photon flux in the tender X-ray range by a factor of 100, allowing highly sensitive spectromicroscopic measurements with high resolutions. This enables data collection on nanoscale materials, such as catalytically active nanoparticles and modern microchip structures, for the first time.

Nanoengineers develop a predictive database for materials

The researchers have developed an AI algorithm called M3GNet that can predict the structure and dynamic properties of any material. The algorithm was used to create a database of over 31 million yet-to-be-synthesized materials with predicted properties, facilitating the discovery of new technological materials.

Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Putting the brakes on lithium-ion batteries to prevent fires

Researchers have developed a new technology that can swiftly put brakes on an overheated Li-ion battery, shutting it down and preventing fires. The material, which uses thermally-responsive shape memory polymer, maintains high conductivity at normal temperatures.

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.

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.

Researchers design next-generation electrolytes for lithium metal batteries

A team of researchers at the University of Tokyo has discovered a new mechanism to stabilize lithium metal electrodes and electrolytes, leading to enhanced energy density. By introducing a compound called ferrocene into specific electrolyte systems, they achieved high Coulombic efficiency, a critical factor in battery cycle life.

A thermally stable anatase for sodium-ion battery

Researchers created a thermally stable anatase material for sodium-ion batteries, overcoming key challenges of poor electron conductivity and ion diffusion. The material exhibits good rate performance and excellent cycling stability, with a reversible specific capacity of 228 mAh g−1.

Keeping electricity affordable on wireless charging highways

A new study from Cornell University proposes an efficient bidding strategy for wireless charging roads to minimize energy costs. By predicting real-time electricity loads, the algorithm can forecast prices and availability, reducing the energy cost for operators while alleviating pressure on power grids.

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.

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.

Improving battery safety and efficiency for electric vehicles

A new method was developed to create a three-dimensional composite lithium anode, addressing key challenges of high energy density and safety hazards. The technique uses thermal infusion and nanosheets to facilitate the infiltration of molten lithium into the composite structure.