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Story tips: Reducing molten salt’s corrosive effect. VERIFI-ing and tracking carbon’s big footprint. Moss genome study identifies two new species. Ultrasound for battery health

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed low-temperature methods to purify molten chloride salts for energy storage, potentially making them suitable for storing solar thermal energy. They also created an online tool called VERIFI to track industrial carbon emissions and improve energy efficiency.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNew Phytologist·DateOct 6, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Seaweed-based battery powers confidence in sustainable energy storage

Researchers have developed a strong seaweed-based separator to prevent dendrite growth in sodium-metal batteries, increasing storage capacity and efficiency. The breakthrough paves the way for greener and more efficient energy storage systems, reducing reliance on scarce materials like lithium.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2022

BESSY II: Localization of d electrons in transition metals determined

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin used Auger photo-electron coincidence spectroscopy to study the occupation of outer d-orbital shells in copper, nickel, and cobalt. The results confirm known findings for copper and nickel, but reveal highly delocalized d electrons in cobalt.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 2, 2022

Novel method helps quantify reversibility and irreversibility of practical li metal batteries

A research group has developed an innovative methodology to quantify the electrochemical reversibility of a lithium metal anode in practical lithium battery systems. The method enables the precise quantification of active and inactive lithium, allowing for a better understanding of the degradation and failure of Li metal batteries.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Energy·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 2, 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.

More reasons to go solar when gearing up for a greener drive

Researchers from the University of South Australia found that households with solar panels and batteries can significantly reduce their annual electricity costs when charging electric vehicles. With off-peak charging, EV owners can save up to 39.6% on energy costs, making it a more affordable option for environmentally-friendly driving.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalRenewable Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 27, 2022

Professor Jong-Sung Yu’s research team at DGIST discovered a turning point in the lithium-sulfur battery field, enabling the development of new next-generation battery technologies with high energy and long lifespan.

The research team created a new porous silica/sulfur interlayer that achieves higher long-term stability than conventional materials, enabling more efficient lithium-sulfur batteries. By loading sulfur in the intermediate layer, they increased capacity per cell area and improved battery performance.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 26, 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.

Simple process extracts valuable magnesium salt from seawater

Researchers at PNNL and UW discover a flow-based method to isolate pure magnesium salt from seawater, skipping energy-intensive purification steps. This approach could revolutionize US domestic magnesium production and enable more efficient processing of seawater.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateSep 23, 2022

Modulating MoSe2 functional plane via doping-defect engineering strategy to develop conductive and electrocatalytic mediators in Li-S batteries

Researchers developed a conductive and electrocatalytic mediator for Li-S batteries by modulating the MoSe2 functional plane through doping-defect engineering. This approach improves lithium polysulfide adsorption, reducing the shuttle effect and enhancing overall battery performance.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateSep 22, 2022

Electronic laboratory notebook for materials science: A lossless data management platform for machine learning and sharing of experimental information

Researchers developed an electronic laboratory notebook that uses knowledge graphs to describe material properties and experimental processes. The platform enables automated analysis, lossless sharing, and discovery of new materials with potential applications in energy-related devices.

SourceWaseda University·Journalnpj Computational Materials·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 21, 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.

Ocean scientists measure sediment plume stirred up by deep-sea-mining vehicle

A new field study reveals a previously unobserved fluid dynamic process that affects the ocean's deep-sea mining operations. Researchers equipped a pre-prototype collector vehicle with instruments to monitor its sediment plume disturbances, finding that the plumes remained relatively low and spread under their own weight.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 21, 2022

Scientists use novel method to make promising battery material

Researchers at Boise State University and Argonne National Laboratory create high-performance battery electrode material with a unique crystalline structure. The material shows promise for fast charging and excellent storage capacity, potentially overcoming significant shortcomings in lithium-ion batteries.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 8, 2022

Researchers invent a new hybrid electrolyte for high performance Li-ion batteries

Scientists have developed a novel polymeric solid electrolyte with improved Li-ion conductivity and a wide potential window, making it suitable for practical use. The addition of a porous membrane enhances the electrolyte's performance by deterring Li dendrite formation, contributing to safer and more sustainable energy supply.

SourceTohoku University·JournaliScience·DateSep 7, 2022

Researchers devise tunable conducting edge

Scientists have developed a magnetized state in monolayer tungsten ditelluride, allowing for controlled electron flow and potential applications in non-volatile memory chips. The discovery enables the creation of smaller, more energy-efficient devices that consume less power and dissipate less energy.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 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.

A new concept for low-cost batteries

Researchers at MIT have developed a new kind of battery using abundant and inexpensive materials, offering a potential solution for large-scale backup power systems. The battery's molten salt electrolyte has been shown to prevent dendrite shorting, a common reliability issue in lithium-ion batteries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateAug 24, 2022

Machine learning algorithm predicts how to get the most out of electric vehicle batteries

Researchers developed a machine learning algorithm that can predict how different driving patterns affect battery performance, improving safety and reliability. The algorithm uses non-invasive probing to provide a holistic view of battery health, suggesting routes and driving patterns that minimize degradation and charging times.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2022
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.

Super-fast electric car charging, with a tailor-made touch

Researchers have designed superfast charging methods tailored to power different types of electric vehicle batteries in 10 minutes or less without harm. By incorporating charging data into machine learning analysis, the team identified and optimized new protocols that significantly increase energy storage while minimizing battery damage.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 22, 2022

Sulfur shortage: a potential resource crisis looming as the world decarbonises

A projected shortage of sulfuric acid could stifle green technology advancement and threaten global food security. Researchers estimate a shortfall in annual supply between 100-320 million tonnes by 2040, depending on decarbonisation pace. Developing low-cost methods to extract elemental sulfur is crucial to mitigate the crisis.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalGeographical Journal·DateAug 21, 2022

Engineers fabricate a chip-free, wireless electronic “skin”

MIT engineers create a flexible, semiconducting film that conforms to the skin like electronic Scotch tape, harnessing gallium nitride's piezoelectric properties for sensing and wireless communication. The device wirelessly transmits signals related to pulse, sweat, and UV exposure without chips or batteries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateAug 18, 2022
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.

Understanding how rechargeable aqueous zinc batteries work

A team of scientists from the University of Illinois Chicago discovered that hydrogen ions, not zinc, cause damage to manganese dioxide in rechargeable aqueous zinc-manganese batteries. This finding challenges existing knowledge about the charging mechanism and opens up new strategies for improving battery sustainability.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2022

New magnesium superionic conductor towards lithium-free solid-state batteries

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science create a metal–organic framework-based magnesium ion conductor showing superionic conductivity at room temperature, overcoming the limitations of magnesium ion-based energy devices. The novel Mg2+ electrolyte exhibits a high conductivity of 10−3 S cm−1, making it suitable for battery applica...

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2022

Surrey's prototype battery only needs seconds of sunlight to keep smart wearables charged

Researchers at Surrey's Advanced Technology Institute have developed a renewable and rechargeable battery prototype that can charge smart wearables in just seconds using sunlight. The system, which combines zinc-ion batteries with perovskite solar cells, enables wearables to operate continuously without plug-in charging.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 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.

A paper battery with water switch

A new paper battery that can be activated by adding a drop of water has been developed, using salt and zinc to generate electricity. The battery's performance decreased over time due to the paper drying out, but it showed promise for low-power electronics.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalScientific Reports·TypeNews article·DateJul 29, 2022

Engineering: Just add water to activate a disposable paper battery

A water-activated disposable paper battery has been developed by Gustav Nyström and colleagues, which can power a wide range of low-power, single-use devices. The battery's performance is maintained by adding water, releasing charged ions that generate an electrical current.

SourceScientific Reports·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 28, 2022

Lithiophilic seeds and rigid arrays synergistic induced dendrite-free and stable Li anode towards long-life lithium-oxygen batteries

Researchers prepared lithiophilic aluminum oxide nanoparticles to enhance rigidity of carbon nanotube arrays, inhibiting dendrite growth and stabilizing the SEI film. The resulting battery exhibited enhanced redox kinetics and long cycle life.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateJul 20, 2022
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.

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

Researchers propose dual-plating strategy to rapidly construct microbatteries

A joint research team proposes a dual-plating strategy to rapidly construct new zinc-bromine microbatteries with ultrahigh areal energy density and polarity-switchable functionality. The method eliminates the synthesis of active materials and avoids mass matching, resulting in record-high areal capacity and energy density.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 14, 2022

Europe supports Jena's energy storage research

The University of Jena has received €2.5M in funding from the European Research Council to advance its energy storage research, led by Prof. Dr Ulrich S. Schubert. The FutureBAT project aims to develop novel organic active materials for polymer-based redox flow batteries with improved capacity, efficiency, and sustainability.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·DateJul 14, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Longer lasting sodium-ion batteries on the horizon

Researchers at PNNL have developed a sodium-ion battery with greatly extended longevity in laboratory tests. The new electrolyte recipe stabilizes the protective film on the anode and generates an ultra-thin protective layer, providing long cycle life and stability. This technology has potential for applications in light-duty electric ...

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 13, 2022

Genetic testing may benefit patients with depression

A study found that pharmacogenomic testing can help providers avoid prescribing antidepressants with undesirable outcomes. The test, which analyzes genes related to drug metabolism, resulted in a significant improvement in depression symptoms compared to usual care.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalJournal of the American Medical Association·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJul 12, 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.

Nano-rust: Smart additive for autonomous temperature control

Researchers create micrometer-sized particles with modular structure and magnetic readout process, allowing tailored applications and non-real-time temperature tracking. The new temperature indicator stores maximum temperature reached in the past, suitable for tracing material temperature history.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 8, 2022

Radiation for responsible recycling: A distributed, microwave-based method to recycle batteries

A new distributed recycling system using microwave irradiation recovers 97% of manganese oxide and zinc from spent alkaline batteries, outperforming conventional methods. The system's potential to reduce annual energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in Japan is estimated at 26,500 GJ and 1.54 Gg-CO2 eq, respectively.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalResources Environment and Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 7, 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

Battery materials must evolve to keep pace with societal needs

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have made critical advances in nanostructures to improve battery performance. The team demonstrated that combining micro-particles with nanostructures can lead to longer battery life, faster charging times, and improved storage capacity.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNature Reviews Materials·TypeSystematic review·DateJun 29, 2022

New biobatteries use bacterial interactions to generate power for weeks

Researchers at Binghamton University have developed a 'plug-and-play' biobattery that lasts for weeks using three bacteria in separate vertical chambers. The batteries can be stacked to improve output voltage and current, offering a solution for long-term power autonomy in remote locations.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateJun 28, 2022
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 model offers potential solutions for next-generation battery challenges

Researchers developed a mathematical model that brings together physics and chemistry involved in dendrite formation, suggesting swapping new electrolytes with certain properties could slow or stop dendrite growth. The study aims to guide the design of lithium-metal batteries with longer life span.

SourceStanford University·JournalJournal of The Electrochemical Society·DateJun 20, 2022

“Volcano-shaped” trend enables rational design of polysulfide catalysts in lithium–sulfur batteries

Researchers discovered a 'volcano-shaped' relationship between polysulfide adsorption and catalytic activity in lithium-sulfur batteries. This finding modifies the long-standing principle that strong adsorption leads to good catalytic activity, suggesting catalysts should be designed separately to improve performance.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Catalysis·DateJun 16, 2022

Research extends the lifetime of molecules in organic flow batteries to practical values

Harvard researchers develop new method to extend the lifetime of organic molecules in organic aqueous flow batteries, improving their commercial viability. The approach works by periodically providing a shock to revive decomposed molecules, resulting in a net lifetime increase of up to 260 times.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 16, 2022

Ink could enable devices powered by heat

Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology have developed a thermoelectric coating that converts low-grade heat into electrical power, with potential to replace batteries in wearables and IoT devices. The coating can be applied to any surface that generates heat, enabling efficient energy harvesting.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJun 14, 2022

Study: Magnetic material could help monitor battery life

Researchers at the University at Buffalo have developed a new magnetic material that can help monitor the amount of charge left in lithium-ion batteries. By tracking changes in the material's magnetism, scientists can estimate the battery's state of charge.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 14, 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.

Theory proves local equilibrium at interfaces

A new theory developed by researchers at the University of Chicago proves the existence of local equilibrium at interfaces, which are regions where materials interact and connect. This finding has significant implications for understanding and engineering systems with multiple components.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 2022

Tailoring defects in hard carbon anode towards enhanced Na storage performance

Scientists designed novel hard carbon anodes with controlled defects, pore structures, and cation doping to boost sodium storage capacity. The optimized materials showed improved rate capability, cycling stability, and energy density. Introducing potassium ions regulated the microstructure and surface functionality of the anodes.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2022

UQ discovery paves the way for faster computers, longer-lasting batteries

University of Queensland scientists have discovered a way to make molecular switches work at room temperature, paving the way for more efficient and environmentally friendly technologies. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in MRI scans, sensors, carbon capture, and hydrogen fuel cells.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2022
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.

Story tips: Tailor-made molecules, better battery electrolytes, beyond Moore’s Law and improving climate model accuracy

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have made significant advancements in recovering rare earth metals, developing safer batteries, and enhancing material properties through tailored molecules and advanced microscopy. These discoveries could lead to more efficient clean energy technologies and reduced carbon impacts.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalLangmuir·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2022

Novel strategy to make fast-charging solid-state batteries

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science discovered that microscopic voids in lithium anodes cause dendrite formation in solid-state batteries. By adding a thin layer of refractory metals to the electrolyte surface, they delayed dendrite growth and extended battery life.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 2, 2022

NTU Singapore scientists develop a ‘fabric’ that turns body movement into electricity

Researchers at NTU Singapore have developed a flexible and durable fabric that harnesses energy from human movements, providing a potential solution for wearable power sources. The fabric generates enough electricity to light up LEDs and charge capacitors, demonstrating its potential for use in smart textiles and wearable electronics.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 1, 2022

Electrolyte additive offers lithium battery performance breakthrough

Researchers discovered an electrolyte additive that protects nickel-rich layered cathodes from degradation and improves cycling performance. The additive forms a protective layer on the cathode, reducing transition metal loss and increasing energy density.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateJun 1, 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.

University of Houston researchers identify alternative to lithium-based battery technology

Researchers at the University of Houston have identified an alternative to lithium-based battery technology for grid-level energy storage systems. They developed a novel form of oxysulfide glass electrolyte that enables reversible sodium plating and stripping at high current densities, potentially solving the challenges associated with...

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2022

Turning high-rise buildings into batteries

Researchers propose a novel gravitational-based storage solution using lifts in tall buildings to store energy. The system, called Lift Energy Storage Technology (LEST), stores energy by lifting wet sand containers or other high-density materials.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalEnergy·DateMay 30, 2022