The new technique allows for the production of a dozen different soft polymer material morphologies, including ribbons, nanoscale sheets, rods, and branched particles. By precisely controlling three sets of parameters during manufacturing, researchers can fine-tune the morphology of polymeric materials at the micro- and nano-scale.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2023
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.
SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
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.
SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2023
Researchers designed a heterostructured interface for Zn batteries with ultrahigh areal capacity and energy density. The new design stabilizes electrodeposition and dissolution of Zn at high capacities, enabling excellent cycling stability.
SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 6, 2023
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.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 6, 2023
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.
A team of researchers from the University of Science and Technology of China has renewed our understanding of lithium-carbon dioxide (Li-CO2) battery operating voltages. They found that Li-CO2 batteries operate at about 1.1 V, contrary to previous reports of 2.6 V.
SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 3, 2023
A new Argonne study compares drone energy usage to diesel trucks and electric vehicles, finding that drones consume as much energy as either on average windy days. The models are based on regional energy consumption and facility costs of direct delivery drones under various wind speed scenarios.
SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateMar 1, 2023
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.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateFeb 23, 2023
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.
SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Energy·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 23, 2023
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.
SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalEnergies·DateFeb 22, 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.
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have discovered that hydrogen atoms play a crucial role in twisting iron, enabling more efficient chemical reactions. Additionally, the lab has developed technology to reuse old electric vehicle batteries as energy storage systems for the grid, reducing pollution and carbon emissions.
SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalChemical Science·DateFeb 15, 2023
Researchers designed unique NiS2/FeS heterostructures to address sodium-ion battery drawbacks, exhibiting improved high-rate performance and cycling stability. DFT calculations confirmed the enhanced performance due to the strong internal electric field at the interface.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 13, 2023
Researchers developed an operando reflection interference microscope to study lithium-ion batteries. The microscope provides critical insight into the working mechanism of the solid electrolyte interphase layer, a key component in determining battery performance.
SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 9, 2023
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.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2023
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.
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.
SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2023
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
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2023
Assistant Professor Mohammad Asadi has published a paper in Science describing the chemistry behind his novel lithium-air battery design, which could store one kilowatt-hour per kilogram or higher. This breakthrough technology has the potential to revolutionize heavy-duty vehicles such as airplanes, trains, and submarines.
SourceIllinois Institute of Technology·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2023
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 from City University of Hong Kong have developed a novel, tiny device to observe liquid-phase electrochemical reactions in energy devices at nanoscale. The device enables real-time and high-resolution visualization of complex electrochemical processes.
SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Protocols·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2023
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.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023
Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new understanding of how nanoscale defects and mechanical stress cause solid electrolytes to fail. By studying over 60 experiments, they found that ceramics often contain tiny cracks on their surface, which can lead to short circuits during fast charging. The discovery could pave the ...
SourceStanford University·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023
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.
SourceRMIT University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2023
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.
Researchers at the University of São Paulo developed a portable, flexible copper sensor that can detect heavy metals like lead and cadmium in sweat. The device is made from ordinary materials and is simple to produce, making it accessible for non-specialists and technicians.
SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalChemosensors·DateJan 23, 2023
Researchers at New York University captured extremely fast dynamics of water molecules moving around salt ions at a scale of over a trillion times per second. The findings allow for more reliable models of ion dynamics, which could improve rechargeable batteries and MRIs.
SourceNew York University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 19, 2023
Researchers propose three protection strategies for lithium metal anode to improve Li–S battery cycling stability. The strategies aim to reduce polysulfide concentration, reaction activity, and enhance uniform plating/stripping of Li metal anode.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·DateJan 18, 2023
Researchers developed a novel, efficient, and low-cost strategy to eliminate surface impurity phases in layered nickel-rich materials. The use of acidic treatments with boric acid has been shown to improve the electrochemical performances and reduce capital costs.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 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.
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.
SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalEnergies·DateJan 12, 2023
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.
SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateJan 12, 2023
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.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Electronics·DateDec 28, 2022
A new low-tortuosity electrode design for LMO batteries improves lithium-ion diffusion, reduces concentration polarization, and alleviates irreversible phase transitions. This structure gives the battery excellent rate performance and cycling stability, making it a competitive cathode material.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 27, 2022
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.
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.
SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateDec 20, 2022
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.
SourceUniversity of Portsmouth·JournalTechnological Forecasting and Social Change·TypeObservational study·DateDec 20, 2022
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.
SourceUniversity of Central Florida·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 19, 2022
Researchers fabricated Li-S batteries with ultra-long cycle life over 2000 cycles via multifunctional separator design. The novel hollow and hierarchically porous Fe3O4 nanospheres effectively regulate LiPSs behavior, achieving high sulfur utilization and excellent electrochemical performances.
SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateDec 15, 2022
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...
SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateDec 13, 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.
Researchers developed a new concept system that improves stability and lifespan of next-generation batteries by turning liquid electrolyte into a dynamic state. This enables fast ion transport while reducing ion diffusion, promoting rapid and uniform transport of lithium ions and controlling dendrite formation.
SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateDec 13, 2022
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.
SourceBinghamton University·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateDec 12, 2022
Researchers developed a novel separator using graphene oxide, acetylene black and polypropylene to suppress lithium polysulfide dissolution and improve lithium-ion transportation. The new separator enables efficient Li-S batteries with better performance and stability.
SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateDec 8, 2022
The study reveals that strong exothermic reactions between dendritic lithium and dissolved higher-order polysulfides drive the temperature rise of deeply cycled lithium-sulfur pouch cells. Inhibiting the polysulfide shuttle is essential to improve thermal safety.
SourceParticuology·JournalParticuology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2022
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 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.
SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 5, 2022
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.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2022
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.
SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalSmall Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2022
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.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Computational Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 28, 2022
Charged porphyrins enable researchers to study π-electronic ion pairs and their interactions, leading to the creation of electronic materials with unique properties. The study reveals fascinating new properties of stacked ion pairs and their potential applications in fields like nanomagnetism and ferroelectrics.
SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
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
Chung-Ang University researchers developed an energy-efficient adaptive directional charging algorithm that adapts to the density of sensor nodes. This approach achieved equal or better charging efficiency than single charging while reducing energy waste. The algorithm employs a mean-shift method and discretized charging strategy decis...
SourceChung Ang University·JournalIEEE Internet of Things Journal·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 14, 2022
The proposal aims to provide a central repository for battery test information, enabling researchers to use advanced data science methods to accelerate battery technology development. The availability of open-source information on batteries is limited, but the Battery Data Genome could help address this challenge.
SourceDOE/Idaho National Laboratory·JournalJoule·TypeCase study·DateNov 14, 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.
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.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateNov 14, 2022
Engineers and chemists at the University of Illinois have combined electron microscopy and data mining to visualize chemical and physical alteration within ion batteries. The study reveals patterns of nucleation, growth, and coalescence that can inform the development of better rechargeable battery performance.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Materials·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 10, 2022
Researchers at MIT have developed a new approach to improve the energy density of nonrechargeable batteries, enabling up to a 50% increase in useful lifetime. The new design uses a fluorinated catholyte material that reduces dead weight and improves safety.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 7, 2022
The introduction of fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) into a poly(1,3-dioxolane)-based polymer electrolyte improves the performance of sodium metal batteries. FEC forms a passivation layer that inhibits side reactions between DOL and the Na metal, reducing interfacial resistance and improving battery overall performance.
SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateNov 1, 2022
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.
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.
SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Energy·DateOct 27, 2022
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.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2022
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.
SourceCornell University·JournalApplied Energy·DateOct 20, 2022
Researchers have fabricated 2D Mn3O4 nanosheets with dominant (101) crystal planes on graphene as efficient oxygen catalysts for Li-O2 batteries. The catalysts achieved ultrahigh capacity and long-term stability, outperforming most Mn-based oxides.
SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalACS Catalysis·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 17, 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.
Tracking lithium ion movement in real-time, researchers found uneven lithium storage in promising battery materials leads to reduced capacity and hindering performance. The discovery highlights a key reason why nickel-rich cathode materials lose around 10% of their capacity after the first charge-discharge cycle.
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.
SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateOct 13, 2022
Researchers have discovered an innovative way to enhance the energy efficiency of metal-carbon dioxide batteries by introducing unconventional phase nanomaterials as catalysts. The novel design boosts battery energy efficiency up to 83.8%, contributing to carbon-neutral goals.
SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
Researchers develop new technique that charges EV battery in just 10 minutes, overcoming major drawbacks of slow recharge and large size. The technology relies on internal thermal modulation, enabling smaller, faster-charging batteries that cut down cost and critical raw material usage.
SourcePenn State·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2022
Researchers develop high-safety, long-life lithium metal batteries with a new electrolyte that suppresses dendrite formation. The electrolyte delivers excellent electrochemical performance and offers solutions for building high-performance lithium metal batteries.
SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateOct 7, 2022
A POSTECH research team developed an anode-free lithium battery with a volumetric energy density of 977Wh/L, enabling 630km long battery life on a single charge. The new technology uses an ion conductive substrate to minimize swelling and increase battery capacity.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateOct 6, 2022