A case report highlights the limitations of remote monitoring in detecting premature battery depletion in recalled pacemakers, leading to urgent device replacement. The cases emphasize the importance of closer monitoring and prophylactic generator changes in patients with high-risk devices.
SourceElsevier·JournalHeartRhythm Case Reports·TypeCase study·DateDec 13, 2021
Researchers at WVU are creating control software for aerial robots to survey Venus' atmosphere, helping model the evolution of climate on Earth. The aerobots will use a hybrid airship design and energy-efficient paths to explore the planet's surface.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a new sodium-based battery material that overcomes the dendrite problem in earlier sodium batteries. The new material recharges as quickly as a traditional lithium-ion battery and has a higher energy capacity than existing sodium-ion batteries.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2021
Researchers developed a green synthesis method for ammonia production using green tea as a reducing agent. The study found that the optimized sample showed 2.93-fold enhanced photocatalytic activity and increased NH3 selectivity, outperforming bulk g-C3N4 under simulated sunlight irradiation.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 3, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers found that repeated fast charging causes atomic-level damage to the graphite particles in lithium-ion batteries, leading to degradation. This damage hinders the intercalation process, preventing lithium ions from moving into the particles, and ultimately impairing battery performance.
SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalJournal of The Electrochemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021
Recent study uses advanced spectroscopy techniques to observe water molecules in superconcentrated salt solutions and identifies heterogeneity in solvation structure. This finding explains the unexpected fast lithium-ion transport in highly viscous electrolytes.
SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 29, 2021
A Berkeley Lab study shows how battery-electric trains can cut carbon dioxide emissions by over half, eliminating premature deaths and health costs associated with diesel freight trains. The analysis suggests that retrofitting diesel-electric trains with batteries is a cost-effective solution with multiple benefits.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateNov 23, 2021
Researchers used AI to optimize multiple properties of flow batteries, finding molecules that store a lot of energy and remain stable. The study uses quantum chemistry-guided multiobjective Bayesian optimization to identify promising candidates.
SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateNov 23, 2021
A new study found that research and development on chemistry and materials science were key factors behind the significant cost decline of lithium-ion batteries. The analysis revealed that over 50% of the cost reduction came from R&D activities, with chemistry and materials research being the primary contributors.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateNov 22, 2021
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 at Berkeley Lab are developing next-generation materials and systems for thermal energy storage, which could be a viable alternative to batteries. The technology has the potential to reduce demand on the electricity grid from thermal loads and free up resources for other applications.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateNov 18, 2021
Scientists from City University of Hong Kong successfully developed battery-like electrochemical Nb2CTx MXene electrodes with stable voltage output and high energy density. The findings break the performance bottleneck of MXene devices, exhibiting superior rate capability, durable cyclic performance, and high energy density.
SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2021
An international research team led by Jennifer L. Schaefer has analyzed the potential of magnesium-ion-conducting solid polymer electrolytes in two separate battery systems. The study found that these electrolytes exhibit higher thermal, mechanical, and electrochemical stability compared to traditional liquid electrolytes, making them ...
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021
The study investigates the effect of solvent on liquid-phase synthesis of lithium solid electrolytes. The research team found that solvents with high dielectric constants enhance reactivity and lead to crystalline Li7P3S11 with high conductivity. Acetonitrile emerges as the best solvent for mass production of sulfide solid electrolytes.
SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2021
Scientists have created a photostabilizer that scavenges singlet oxygen atoms and free radicals, improving electrochemical performance in high-voltage lithium batteries. The bio-inspired mechanism addresses the issue of electrolyte degradation, which poses challenges to next-generation energy storage devices.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 14, 2021
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 developed a molecular compound that serves as a low-cost electrolyte for redox flow batteries, enabling stable operation and high capacity retention. The compound overcomes limitations of previous electrolytes by increasing its hydrophilicity and conductivity.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 12, 2021
Researchers developed a hybrid membrane using graphene oxide and tungsten trioxide nanoparticles to reduce vanadium ion permeation in VRFBs. The new membrane shows high ion selectivity, improving Coulombic and energy efficiency compared to commercial membranes.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateNov 11, 2021
Researchers at the University of Rochester develop a computational V2G model that accounts for factors not previously considered, showing potential savings of $120-$150 per year for vehicle owners. The model uses data from the US Census Bureau and calculates battery degradation costs based on various variables.
SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 9, 2021
Penn State researchers have received a $2.9 million grant to tackle challenges related to lithium-sulfur batteries, which could provide double the energy density and cycle life of current technology. The project aims to address issues such as polysulfide dissolution and dendrite formation to improve battery stability.
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 focus on cathode materials in rechargeable aluminum batteries to improve electrochemical performance. Current studies classify cathode materials into four groups based on ion charge carriers and discuss their respective electrode structures, optimization strategies, and charge storage mechanisms.
SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Chemistry·DateOct 28, 2021
A Curtin University study has found a simple and affordable way to test which chemicals are best used to store and supply energy, solving the puzzle of energy storage and supply. The breakthrough method can be performed in a basic lab with minimal equipment, producing full charges that last for at least four days.
SourceCurtin University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 28, 2021
Researchers developed a flexible, self-powered device that translates sound waves into electrical signals, mimicking the inner ear's function. The device, implanted in a model ear, accurately recreated music files, offering a promising solution for treating hearing loss without batteries.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 27, 2021
Researchers have overcome significant barriers to developing safe and long-life lithium metal batteries by creating a new structure in the negative electrode that can regulate lithium ion flux. The results show high capacity retention of over 80% after more than 200 cycles of recharging.
SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateOct 22, 2021
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.
The study found that a stack pressure of 350 kilo Pascal increases lithium particle deposition in neat columns, improving stability and reducing the risk of short circuits. Additionally, partial discharge during cycling can also boost performance without affecting the solid electrolyte interphase structure.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 2021
A recent study has found that the COVID-19 pandemic led to a significant increase in cases of children ingesting small magnets and button batteries, which can cause serious harm or even death. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that emergency departments saw a higher proportion of battery and magnet ingestions during the pandemic.
Researchers at Ural Federal University successfully experimentally determined the optimal thickness of an aluminum layer in a fully solid-state lithium power source. The results will be used to create high-energy batteries with increased operational safety and lower production costs.
SourceUral Federal University·JournalSolid State Ionics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2021
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 introduce a new platform called BFree that allows users to build battery-free devices using intermittent energy harvesting. The system includes energy-harvesting hardware and a power-failure-resistant version of Python, making it accessible to novice programmers.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Interactive Mobile Wearable and Ubiquitous Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 2021
Scientists have discovered a two-dimensional type I superionic conductor with high ionic conductivity and low thermal conductivity, making it a promising material for batteries, fuel cells, thermoelectrics, and environmental cleanup applications.
SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 14, 2021
A universal descriptor has been found to indicate the best electrolytes for organic redox flow batteries, reducing experimentation time. This breakthrough could speed up the development of new storage technologies, enabling grid-scale energy storage with a stable grid.
SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2021
Scientists create a flexible supercapacitor using wrinkled titanium carbide nanosheets that maintains its ability to store and release electronic charges after repetitive stretching. The device has a high energy capacity comparable to existing MXene-based supercapacitors, but with extreme stretchability up to 800% without cracking.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 8, 2021
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.
A new research method developed by an interdisciplinary team of engineers and scientists has the potential to significantly increase lithium supply and reduce costs for devices that rely on it. The technique involves extracting lithium from contaminated water using precise membranes, which can improve efficiency and simplify the extrac...
SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 2021
Researchers developed a lightweight and flexible passive air-breathing PEMFC with simplified components. The new design allows for easy assembly and folding, reducing the number of parts and increasing power output when connected in series.
SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021
Berkeley Lab researchers developed a method to increase the efficiency of LED devices by applying mechanical strain to thin semiconductor films. This approach reduces exciton annihilation, allowing for high-performance LEDs even at high brightness levels.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021
Storing lithium-ion batteries at below-freezing temperatures can crack the cathode material, reducing electric storage capacity. Researchers identified this issue by analyzing battery particles using X-ray methods and machine learning techniques.
SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021
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.
Scientists at Tokyo University of Science develop a new methodology to investigate the elusive electric double layer (EDL) effect in all-solid-state batteries. The study reveals that the EDL effect is dominated by the electrolyte's composition and can be suppressed through charge compensation, leading to improved performance.
SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021
The new alkali metal-chlorine batteries can cycle up to 200 times and achieve a capacity of 1,200 milliamp hours per gram, significantly outperforming commercial lithium-ion batteries. Researchers envision their batteries being used in satellites and remote sensors where frequent recharging is not practical.
SourceStanford University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2021
Researchers at Tohoku University have developed liquid-sulfur/sulfide composite cathodes enabling high-rate magnesium batteries. The material shows high capacity, potential, cyclability, and rate capability, with a discharge capacity of ~900 mAh/g and stable performance for over 50 cycles.
SourceTohoku University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateAug 23, 2021
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.
A new membrane design reduces dendrite issues in zinc-based batteries, achieving high areal capacity and current density. The study demonstrates improved energy efficiency and stability at high current densities.
SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 19, 2021
Researchers at Nagoya City University find a fourfold increase in surface deuterium atoms on nanocrystalline silicon, paving the way for sustainable deuterium enrichment protocols. The efficient exchange reaction could lead to more durable semiconductor technology and potentially purify tritium contaminated water.
SourceNagoya City University·JournalPhysical Review Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 16, 2021
Researchers at Berkeley Lab have made significant breakthroughs in developing a highly effective COVID-19 antibody therapy and an efficient thermoelectric system that can convert waste heat to electricity. The new antibody, S309, has been shown to neutralize all known SARS-CoV-2 strains and may be more difficult for new mutants to escape.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateAug 16, 2021
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.
NTU scientists create soft and stretchable battery powered by human perspiration, suitable for wearable devices. The battery generates electricity in the presence of sweat, providing a sustainable alternative to conventional batteries.
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalScience Advances·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateAug 16, 2021
A Hebrew University study reveals that as worldwide lead production increases, so do rates of lead absorption in people, leading to toxic effects. The research uses ancient human bones to show the close relationship between lead production and human exposure.
SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·TypeNews article·DateAug 16, 2021
A UK team developed a portable ventilator to treat COVID-19 patients in developing countries. The Field Ventilator can be used beyond COVID-19 to treat various respiratory diseases and patients needing respiratory support.
SourceStaffordshire University·JournalHealth Science Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 9, 2021
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.
Researchers have designed a novel material that combines the desirable characteristics of chloride solid electrolytes, including high ionic conductivity and deformability. The new electrolyte, Li2ZrCl6, offers a significantly lower raw material cost and improved humidity tolerance than existing alternatives.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 29, 2021
Researchers developed a novel method to visualize and understand the structural and chemical evolution of silicon and its interface with the electrolyte. This breakthrough could lead to more robust lithium batteries with improved performance and longer cycle life.
SourcePenn State·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJul 29, 2021
The UK has invested £10 million in the Faraday Battery Challenge to develop innovative battery technologies. Four projects, including Power-UP, GENESIS, HIPERCARB, and SABRE, aim to create high-performance batteries for electric vehicles, with applications in energy density, cost optimization, and fast charging.
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.
A leading nano-technologist argues that there are no excuses left to justify the use of fossil fuels. Significant innovations in advanced batteries and energy storage technologies are needed to meet the goal of a carbon net-zero planet by 2050.
SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalEnergy & Environmental Materials·DateJul 20, 2021
Scientists have long struggled to make reliable lithium-metal batteries due to high failure rates and safety issues. New nanoscale images reveal a hard buildup of solid electrolyte interphase, which tears holes in the separator and allows metal deposits to form a short, leading to catastrophic device failure.
SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateJul 14, 2021
A study from University of Michigan researchers found that electric delivery vehicle charging practices can greatly impact their potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Optimizing charging strategies can lower emissions by up to 37% and protect investment. Charging from a cleaner energy source, such as renewables, is key.
A new study suggests that collective battery storage can significantly reduce the cost of providing load smoothing and peak shaving services to households. By sharing batteries or having one per 20 houses, households can provide essential grid services while reducing individual costs, a key finding published in Energy & Buildings.
SourceUniversity of Otago·JournalEnergy and Buildings·DateJul 8, 2021
Researchers at UC Berkeley created an insect-scale robot using electrostatic adhesion, allowing it to traverse complex terrain and make sharp turns with unprecedented speed and control. The robot can survive being stepped on by a human and operate for up to 19 minutes on battery power.
SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience Robotics·DateJul 2, 2021
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.
Engineers at UC Berkeley created an insect-scale robot using electrostatic adhesion to traverse complex terrain and avoid obstacles with incredible agility. The robot's design allows it to swerve, pivot, and make sharp turns with unprecedented speed and control.
SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience Robotics·DateJul 2, 2021
The KAUST team's solution involves a layer of hierarchically porous graphene that significantly suppresses polysulfide shuttling in Li-S batteries. This innovation improves the capacity and recharging ability of Li-S battery technologies, making them suitable for large-scale commercial applications.
SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJun 29, 2021
A new study by Carnegie Mellon University researchers suggests that storing both oil and gas on-site at power plants can reduce dependence on gas grids and mitigate fuel shortages. This could reduce costs for electric customers in New England, where gas supply constraints have led to frequent power plant outages.
SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalThe Electricity Journal·DateJun 23, 2021
The CSEM innovation enables devices to run independently for over a year, reducing installation and maintenance costs. The system's two-tiered data processing approach drastically reduces power requirement, with most applications using only the first accelerator.
SourceSwiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology - CSEM·DateJun 17, 2021
Researchers developed semiconducting passivation layers to inhibit dendrite formation, enhancing battery stability and safety. The new technology improved battery capacity by up to 81% compared to conventional Li electrodes.
SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateJun 16, 2021
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.
A newly developed LDH-based composite membrane enhances AZIFB performance by improving selectivity and hydroxide ion conductivity. The study achieved an operating current density of 200 mA cm‒‒, along with high energy efficiency of 82.36%.
SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 15, 2021
A new study presents a high-efficiency battery system that can be charged using indoor lighting, showcasing an overall energy efficiency of 13.2%. The research team developed a novel electrode material that significantly enhances charging efficiency under dim light conditions.
SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateJun 11, 2021
Researchers at NUS successfully demonstrated a system that wirelessly powers wearables by harnessing energy from the environment and transmitting it through the human body. The technology can power up to 10 wearable devices for over 10 hours, paving the way for battery-less wearables.
SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Electronics·DateJun 10, 2021
A team of scientists has observed direct atomic evidence of the anionic redox mechanism in lithium-rich cathodes, which could lead to breakthroughs in battery technology. The discovery provides conclusive evidence for this mechanism, nearly doubling the energy storage capacity compared to conventional cathodes.
SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalNature·DateJun 9, 2021
Researchers at the University of Liverpool have made a groundbreaking discovery in charge storage mechanisms for calcium-air batteries. The new finding, known as trapped interfacial redox, introduces a novel mechanism that can be harnessed to create highly sustainable battery technologies.
SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalChemical Science·DateJun 7, 2021
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.