Researchers at the University of Hong Kong have developed a new generation of lithium metal batteries with microcrack-free polymer electrolytes, promising extended lifespan and enhanced safety. The batteries maintained 92.7% capacity retention and averaged 99.867% coulombic efficiency over 450 cycles at 100°C.
SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJul 21, 2024
A $1.5 million state grant is funding research into using fungal molecules in batteries, photovoltaics and electronic circuitry. The project, called NICER, aims to explore how these compounds can improve energy technologies, making them more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Greensboro·DateJul 19, 2024
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 HKUST have developed a novel strategy to create solid-state electrolytes with high performance, achieving exceptional ionic conductivity and lithium-ion transport capability. The new electrolyte enabled the fabrication of a full cell demonstrating an initial discharge capacity of 141.5 mAh g−1 at room temperature.
SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2024
Physicists at Trinity College Dublin developed a new theory describing the energy landscape of collections of quantum particles. This work addresses decades-old questions and may help scientists design materials revolutionizing green technologies.
SourceTrinity College Dublin·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 17, 2024
Scientists have created a new type of battery that is soft and stretchable, making it suitable for wearables and medical implants. The 'jelly batteries' use hydrogels to deliver an electric current and can be stretched up to ten times their original length without losing conductivity.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience Advances·DateJul 17, 2024
A team of scientists and engineers designed an electrolyte that maintains high power delivery during charging and discharging cycles. This innovation addresses the key challenge of low power delivery at landing stages in electric aircraft, where batteries are not fully charged.
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 used omics techniques to discover a novel electrolyte solution that increases cycle life for electric aircraft batteries by four-fold, outperforming conventional batteries. The new design aims to enable carbon-free air travel and expand the use of omics in battery research.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalJoule·DateJul 11, 2024
Scientists at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology have developed a new cathode material, NaNi0.9 Ti0.1 O2, which shows improved cycling stability and high theoretical specific capacity, positioning it as a potential candidate for high-energy-density sodium-ion batteries.
SourceSongshan Lake Materials Laboratory·JournalMaterials Futures·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 11, 2024
Researchers at HZB have developed a method to precisely monitor electrochemical reactions in solid-state batteries using photoelectron spectroscopy at BESSY II. The results show that decomposition products form at interfaces, hindering lithium ion transport and reducing battery capacity with each charge cycle.
SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 10, 2024
The new COMET centre Battery4Life aims to enhance the safety, lifespan, and eco-friendliness of batteries. By leveraging artificial intelligence and state-of-the-art test facilities, researchers will develop methods for assessing used battery safety and exploring sustainable reuse options.
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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 University of Chicago's laboratory has developed the world's first anode-free sodium solid-state battery with stable cycling for hundreds of cycles, promising to be more environmentally friendly and affordable than traditional lithium-ion batteries. This innovation could help accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy by pro...
SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Energy·DateJul 3, 2024
A novel process for extracting metals from spent alkaline batteries has been developed, offering a promising solution for recycling critical materials. The technique achieves high extraction efficiencies of 99.6% for zinc and 86.1% for manganese, making it cheaper and more energy-efficient than existing methods.
SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalJournal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology·DateJul 3, 2024
A research team at KAIST has developed an AI-based methodology to predict the major elemental composition and charge-discharge state of NCM cathode materials with high accuracy using convolutional neural networks. The technology can analyze surface morphology images of batteries to determine their composition and lifespan.
SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·Journalnpj Computational Materials·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 2, 2024
Researchers at USTC developed a novel spiro-branched polymeric membrane with exceptional performance in flow battery applications, exceeding 60 mS cm-1 chloride ion conductivity. The membranes demonstrated superior power density and energy efficiency, potentially addressing various energy and environmental challenges.
SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJun 25, 2024
Researchers developed a unique electrochemical ultrasonic force microscopy (EC-UFM) technique to observe sodium-ion battery interfaces during operation. The new method guides passivating layer formation, preserving charge carrier transport and enhancing battery performance.
SourceLancaster University·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024
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.
Researchers developed a technique to study electrochemical processes at the atomic level, revealing unexpected transformations in a popular copper catalyst. The technique, called polymer liquid cell (PLC), enables scientists to observe composition changes during reactions in real time.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateJun 19, 2024
Researchers propose a novel hydrogel electrolyte formula that effectively interrupts water clusters and enhances water covalency, resulting in an expanded voltage stability window. The design improves the battery's climate adaptability by regulating Zn solvation and interfacial adhesion.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2024
Researchers at Stanford University have made significant advancements in the development of a 'liquid battery' technology that uses LOHCs to store and release energy. The team discovered a novel, selective catalytic system that allows for the efficient storage of electrical energy in liquid fuels without generating gaseous hydrogen.
SourceStanford University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 12, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers developed a novel air-handleable garnet-type solid electrolyte technology that improves surface and internal properties, preventing contamination layer formation. This innovation enables the creation of ultra-thin lithium solid-state batteries with high energy density and low weight.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateJun 11, 2024
Researchers have developed cutting-edge techniques for optimizing battery design, manufacturing processes, and recycling methods to enhance energy density, performance, and safety. Machine learning techniques are also highlighted for early fault detection and prevention of thermal runaway in real-time.
SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalEnergy Storage and Saving·DateJun 10, 2024
Researchers from the University of Cambridge developed a low-cost and energy-efficient method to make materials that can capture carbon dioxide directly from the air. The charged charcoal sponge uses reversible bonds with hydroxides to capture CO2, requiring lower temperatures and renewable electricity for regeneration.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateJun 5, 2024
Researchers have developed a new class of fluorinated block copolymers as solid electrolytes for solid-state ZnI2 batteries, promoting stable fluoride-rich SEI layer and preventing zinc dendrite growth. The battery demonstrates excellent cycle performance, maintaining stability for approximately 5000 hours at room temperature.
SourceSongshan Lake Materials Laboratory·JournalMaterials Futures·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 4, 2024
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 from Pohang University of Science & Technology have developed a high-energy, high-efficiency all-solid-state sodium-air battery that can reversibly utilize sodium and air without additional equipment. The breakthrough overcomes the challenge of carbonate formation, increasing energy density and reducing voltage gap.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 28, 2024
Researchers developed polymeric protective films to improve anode interface stability in sulfide-based all-solid-state batteries. The films, made from various polymers, showed improved interfacial stability and high-capacity retention rates after multiple cycles.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMay 28, 2024
Researchers have created a new polyfumaric acid binder to improve the performance of hard-carbon electrodes in sodium-ion batteries. The new binder shows improved Na ion diffusion, long-cycle stability, and enhanced durability.
SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMay 28, 2024
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 Pohang University of Science & Technology developed a hybrid porous structure using polyvinyl alcohol, enabling uniform lithium electrodeposition. The new design facilitated the transport of lithium ions, reducing 'dead Li' areas and internal short circuits, resulting in high stability after 200 charge-discharge cycles.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMay 23, 2024
Columbia Engineers employ nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to examine lithium metal batteries. Their findings may help design new electrolytes and anode surfaces for high-performance batteries, addressing the challenges of commercializing lithium metal batteries.
SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalJoule·DateMay 20, 2024
DGIST researchers successfully develop dual-site radioactive isotope dye-sensitized betavoltaic cells with high efficiency and stability. The new battery technology generates power without recharging and has a semi-permanent lifespan.
SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateMay 19, 2024
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.
Dr. Hemali Rathnayake has developed a cost-effective and efficient lithium refining process for converting lithium into battery-grade lithium carbonate. The grant funding will support her ongoing research to boost North Carolina's sustainable domestic supply chain for lithium-based products.
SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Greensboro·DateMay 17, 2024
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed carbon-capture batteries that can store renewable energy and capture airborne CO2. The new battery formulations can maintain capacity for up to 600 hours and convert CO2 into a solid form with the potential to be used in other products.
SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Power Sources·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024
A team of researchers used state-of-the-art imaging techniques to study lithium-ion battery cells. They identified macroscopic deformations in the copper current collector due to local accumulations of silicon during electrode manufacturing. The defects compromise cell structure and functioning when agglomerates exceed 50 microns in size.
SourceInstitut Laue-Langevin·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2024
Researchers at Linköping University have developed a battery based on zinc and lignin that can be used over 8000 times, retaining its charge for approximately one week. The battery is stable and easily recyclable, making it a promising alternative to lithium-ion batteries.
SourceLinköping University·JournalEnergy & Environmental Materials·DateMay 14, 2024
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.
The team developed a deep learning AI technique to quantitatively analyze cation mixing using atomic structure images. This approach revealed that introducing metal dopants like aluminum, titanium, and zirconium into the transition metal layer fortified bonds between nickel and oxygen atoms, curbing cation mixing.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateMay 12, 2024
A team of international researchers, led by TU Delft, found that introducing chemical short-range disorder into layered oxide materials used as cathode materials can significantly improve the stability and performance of lithium-ion batteries. This improvement results in a longer cycle life and shorter charging times for well-establish...
SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalNature·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 8, 2024
A study by Raheel Ahmed Shaikh and colleagues models the most cost-efficient path to Australia's fully renewable electricity grid. The optimal route would require significant expansion of generation and storage, but could reduce costs with interconnection between eastern and western grids.
Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a soft, self-charging material that can track vital signs like blood pressure and heart activity wirelessly. This innovation has significant implications for early disease detection and timely interventions in chronic conditions.
SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 30, 2024
Researchers identified three types of behaviour around refuelling, including the event-triggered model, which is best for optimum electric vehicle usage. The study suggests that a change in mindset can reduce range anxiety and encourage more people to opt for EVs.
SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalEnergy·TypeObservational study·DateApr 25, 2024
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.
The GREENSKY model significantly enhances the energy efficiency of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in cellular networks by optimizing charging behavior and routing processes. This results in a 9.1% reduction in energy consumption compared to traditional heuristic solutions.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalGreen Energy and Intelligent Transportation·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 23, 2024
A Rutgers study reveals that price is the biggest barrier to a vibrant second-hand EV market, with lower-income buyers often priced out of the market. The study suggests that increasing charging station availability and expanding subsidies could promote greater used EV uptake across income groups.
SourceRutgers University·JournalTransportation Research Part D Transport and Environment·DateApr 19, 2024
Researchers at KAIST have developed a hybrid sodium-ion battery with high energy and power density, enabling rapid charging in under a few seconds. The new battery technology has the potential to revolutionize energy storage for electric vehicles and other applications.
SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 19, 2024
Researchers at University of Cambridge found that disordered carbon electrodes in supercapacitors store more energy than ordered ones. The study used nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to analyze electrode materials and found a correlation between disorder and energy capacity.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalScience·DateApr 18, 2024
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 have discovered life-threatening quantities of lead pollution from improperly managed battery waste in off-grid solar technologies in Malawi. The study found that common informal recycling activities for lead-acid batteries release toxic lead pollution, equivalent to more than 100 lethal oral doses per single battery.
SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalApplied Energy·DateApr 18, 2024
A new DC-DC power converter designed by Kobe University team offers superior voltage ratio, system stability, and simplicity, achieving an impressive efficiency of up to 98.3%. The device can efficiently interface with various energy sources, making it suitable for renewable energy integration and electric vehicle applications.
SourceKobe University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Power Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2024
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University developed a process to create solid sulfide electrolytes with world-high sodium ion conductivity and glass electrolytes with high reduction resistance. This breakthrough enhances the practical use of all-solid-state sodium batteries.
SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 11, 2024
Researchers developed new techniques to study acid-base chemistry at electrified interfaces, revealing the impact of hydrophobic layers and electric fields. These findings offer opportunities for optimizing electrochemical processes and designing novel catalytic strategies.
SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 11, 2024
Researchers at the University of Michigan and Samsung's Advanced Materials Lab have developed a new approach to making chemically complex materials that can improve battery performance. The method uses unconventional ingredients to reduce impurities in the final material, resulting in more efficient and cost-effective production.
SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Synthesis·DateApr 9, 2024
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.
A recent analysis by DOE/Argonne National Laboratory and NREL suggests that renewable energy could reduce carbon footprint at the South Pole. The study found that using solar energy during the austral summer could save approximately $57 million over 15 years.
SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·DateApr 8, 2024
Researchers at Tohoku University developed a high-performance magnesium-air battery that utilizes water activation and carbon cathodes. The paper-based battery achieved impressive performance results and demonstrated its versatility in wearable devices such as pulse oximeters and GPS sensors.
SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalRSC Applied Interfaces·DateApr 3, 2024
Researchers propose a hybrid data driven framework combining VMD, ISSA, and MKSVR to enhance battery SOH estimation and RUL prediction. The approach achieves accurate predictions with high stability.
SourceGreen Energy and Intelligent Transportation·JournalGreen Energy and Intelligent Transportation·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2024
Research by a team at Pohang University of Science & Technology found that impurities in lithium raw material can enhance process efficiency and prolong battery lifespan, reducing costs and emissions by up to 19.4% and 9.0%, respectively.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 1, 2024
A new iron-based phosphate cathode material has been developed with improved reversible capacity and energy density, enabling fast-charge capability and superior cycling performance. The material uses a bi-phase intergrowth heterogeneous structure to activate the inert phase, achieving high capacity and long cycle life.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 28, 2024
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 Tsinghua University have developed a new fabrication method for flexible solar cells, increasing their power conversion efficiency by up to 25.09%. The new technique uses a chemical bath deposition method that is compatible with acid-sensitive substrates, addressing durability concerns and enabling scalable production.
SourceTsinghua University Press·JournaliEnergy·DateMar 27, 2024
Researchers have developed an implantable battery that runs on the body's own oxygen, providing stable power and compatibility with biological systems. The device shows promise for powering medical devices, monitoring wound healing, and even starving cancer cells.
SourceCell Press·JournalChem·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 27, 2024
Researchers at PNNL have developed a safe, economical, and water-based flow battery made with commercially available industrial quantities of nitrogenous triphosphonate. The new design exhibits remarkable cycling stability over 1,000 charging cycles, outperforming previous iron-based batteries.
SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2024
The development of cost-effective and high-performance RP anode materials is crucial for LIBs/SIBs. Poor electrical conductivity and significant volume changes in RP compromise its cycling stability, leading to substantial electrode polarization and reaction kinetics issues.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 21, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide have developed a new nanocomposite electrocatalyst that enables lithium-sulphur batteries to achieve full charge/discharge in less than five minutes. This breakthrough has significant implications for high-performance battery systems and energy storage technologies.
SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 17, 2024
A new technique for producing polymer solid electrolytes has been developed, eliminating the need for vacuum heat treatment and increasing production speed by 13-fold. This method ensures consistent thickness and surface quality of polymer solid electrolytes, ideal for battery production.
SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·DateMar 15, 2024
The USTC team created a rechargeable, non-aqueous manganese metal battery with halogen-mediated electrolyte, achieving high Coulombic and Faraday efficiencies. The battery demonstrated stable cycling for over 700 hours and showed excellent multiplicity performance.
SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalJoule·DateMar 15, 2024
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.
A research team developed an anode protection layer to prevent random electrodeposition of lithium, promoting stable 'bottom electrodeposition' and reducing unnecessary consumption. The breakthrough results in all-solid-state batteries with stable electrochemical performance over extended periods using ultrathin lithium metal anodes.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalSmall·DateMar 13, 2024
Researchers found that faulty mtDNA replication causes mitochondria to leak genetic material, triggering an immune response and leading to disease. By targeting this process, doctors may develop therapies to prevent harmful inflammation.
SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateMar 1, 2024