Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Sodium-ion batteries: How doping works

Scientists found that doping with Scandium reduces structural changes but doesn't improve stability. Magnesium doping suppresses oxygen redox reaction, which is unexpected as magnesium triggers it in other layered manganese oxides.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2024

Revolutionizing lithium metal batteries: Asymmetric fire-retardant electrolytes ensure safety and stability

The development of asymmetric fire-retardant electrolytes in lithium metal batteries has shown significantly enhanced safety performance and cycling stability. The novel quasi-solid polymer electrolyte meets the stringent requirements of high-voltage LMBs, addressing safety concerns and improving overall battery performance.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 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.

A battery’s hopping ions remember where they’ve been

In a groundbreaking study, researchers observed that battery ions change direction and return to previous positions before resuming their random travels. The 'fuzzy memory' of the ions lasts just a few billionths of a second but will help scientists predict ion behavior.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2024

Getting to know the ​‘ghost’ inside batteries

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory discovered soft-shorts, tiny voltage fluctuations that indicate the early signs of battery failure. These transient short-circuits occur when lithium filaments grow from the anode to the cathode, disrupting ion flow between electrodes and potentially leading to permanent internal shorts.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalJoule·DateFeb 7, 2024

Resting boosts performance of lithium metal batteries

Researchers at Stanford University have discovered that resting lithium metal batteries in the discharged state can restore capacity and boost overall performance. By reprogramming the battery management software, lost capacity can be recovered without additional cost or changes needed for equipment, materials, or production flow.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateFeb 7, 2024

New study finds “sweet spot” for length of yarn-shaped supercapacitors

Researchers at North Carolina State University found that yarn-shaped supercapacitors (YSCs) in the 40-60 centimeter range provide the best overall energy output. The study, which aimed to explain changes in YSC performance across a wide range of lengths, used mathematical models to determine the most efficient length for YSCs.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Power Sources·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2024
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.

Incheon National University-Harvard University joint research team improves fuel cell durability with fatigue-resistant membranes

Researchers created a polymer electrolyte membrane with an interpenetrating network that enhances fatigue resistance and prolongs the lifespan of fuel cells. The composite membrane exhibits a lifespan of 410 hours, compared to 242 hours for the original Nafion membrane.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2024

Chemists decipher reaction process that could improve lithium-sulfur batteries

Researchers have deciphered the key pathways of the sulfur reduction reaction in lithium-sulfur batteries, identifying dominant molecular pathways and critical roles of electrocatalysis. This breakthrough could lead to improved battery performance, reduced costs, and increased energy storage capacity.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature·DateFeb 6, 2024

Stable binder boosting sulfide solid electrolyte thin membrane for all-solid-state lithium batteries

Researchers have developed a new polymeric binder that enhances the mechanical strength and stability of sulfide solid electrolyte membranes. This breakthrough improves the energy density of all-solid-state lithium batteries, enabling longer cycle life and higher performance.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sound-powered sensors stand to save millions of batteries

A new type of mechanical sensor, powered by sound waves, could monitor infrastructure and medical devices without battery replacement, reducing waste. The sensor can distinguish between different words and sounds, triggering processes or alarms.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2024

Engineered battery chemistry for fast charging capabilities

Researchers successfully improved lithium metal battery charging rates by adding a cesium nitrate compound, while maintaining long cycle life. The new findings challenge conventional beliefs about effective interphase components and contribute to the development of high-energy density batteries.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 26, 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.

Major climate benefits with electric aircraft

Researchers found that small electric aircraft can have a notably lower climate impact – up to 60 percent less – and other types of environmental impacts than equivalent fossil-fuelled aircraft. The study also highlights the need for longer battery lifetimes and improved energy storage capacity to minimize mineral resource scarcity.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalThe International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 23, 2024

Cobalt-free batteries could power cars of the future

MIT researchers have developed a cobalt-free battery material that offers improved sustainability and comparable performance to traditional lithium-ion batteries. The new organic material can conduct electricity at similar rates, store capacity, and be charged faster than cobalt-containing batteries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Central Science·DateJan 18, 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.

Dirt-powered fuel cell runs forever

A new Northwestern University-led fuel cell harvests energy from microbes in soil to power underground sensors, potentially offering a sustainable alternative to batteries. The technology outlasts similar technologies by 120% and can operate in both wet and dry conditions.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the ACM on Interactive Mobile Wearable and Ubiquitous Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2024

Architectures, opportunities, and challenges of Internet-of-batteries for electric Vehicles

The Internet-of-Batteries (IoB) system utilizes IoT principles to gather data from EV batteries, analyzing health and performance, identifying faults, and optimizing usage. Machine learning approaches enhance decision-making for improved battery performance, increased range, and reduced costs.

SourceGreen Energy and Intelligent Transportation·JournalGreen Energy and Intelligent Transportation·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024
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.

Solid state battery design charges in minutes, lasts for thousands of cycles

Researchers have developed a new solid state battery design that can be charged and discharged over 6,000 times, with the ability to recharge in just 10 minutes. The breakthrough uses micron-sized silicon particles to constrict the lithiation reaction and facilitate homogeneous plating of lithium metal.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 8, 2024

Using static electricity to enhance biomedical implant durability

A research team developed electrostatic materials capable of responding to weak ultrasound, generating static electricity for implantable neurological stimulators. The technology eliminates the need for batteries, reduces device size, and minimizes strain on the human body. Experimental validation confirms its effectiveness in animal m...

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 3, 2024

Breakthrough in hydrate-based desalination technique unveiled

A new method for desalinating seawater using hydrate-based desalination technology has been developed, offering a low-energy solution for producing freshwater. The research team calculated optimal temperatures for enhanced efficiency, with maximum water yields reaching up to 67% in certain brine concentrations.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalWater Research·DateDec 28, 2023

New material allows for better hydrogen-based batteries and fuel cells

Researchers have developed a solid electrolyte that allows for efficient hydride ion conduction at room temperature, enabling the creation of safer, more efficient hydrogen-based batteries and fuel cells. This breakthrough provides material design guidelines for the development of next-generation energy storage solutions.

SourceRIKEN·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateDec 21, 2023

First observation of how water molecules move near a metal electrode

Researchers observe changes in water molecule movement near a metal electrode depending on the magnitude and polarity of the applied voltage. The study provides crucial insights into electrochemical reactions and paves the way for designing more efficient battery technologies.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2023
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.

Quantum batteries break causality

Researchers from the University of Tokyo have developed a new way to charge quantum batteries using optical apparatuses and the phenomenon of indefinite causal order. This approach enables significant gains in energy storage and thermal efficiency, even with lower power chargers.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 14, 2023

Study on battery recycling shows China is in 1st place

A study by researchers from the University of Münster found that China will be able to meet its demand for primary lithium for electric vehicles through recycling as early as 2059, while Europe and the US will not achieve this until after 2070. Recycling is also expected to ensure China's need for cobalt by 2045 and nickel by 2046.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalResources Conservation and Recycling·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 8, 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.

MIT engineers develop a way to determine how the surfaces of materials behave

Researchers create Automatic Surface Reconstruction framework to estimate all possible variations of material surfaces, providing detailed information on catalysts, semiconductors, and battery components. The method reduces human intuition and provides dynamic information on surface properties over time.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Computational Science·DateDec 7, 2023

Sandpaper X-ray technique could change how batteries are monitored

Researchers have developed a low-cost method for using x-ray technology to capture images inside batteries and analyze their internal structure. The new technique uses sandpaper to structure illumination, allowing for detailed mapping at the nanoscale.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 29, 2023

Greener solution powers new method for lithium-ion battery recycling

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a new, efficient, and environmentally-friendly solution for lithium-ion battery recycling using organic citric acid. This approach recovers critical metals like cobalt and lithium, reduces pollution and reliance on foreign sources, and eliminates the need for hazardous chemicals.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2023
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.

Toward a sustainable EV battery supply chain globally

The global EV battery industry is projected to exceed 600 MtCO2eq in emissions by 2050, mainly due to energy-intensive mining and refining processes. Shifting to less CO2-intensive battery chemistries like LFP could reduce emissions by 20%.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateNov 28, 2023

Researchers obtain promising results against capacity loss in vanadium batteries

A computational study conducted by Brazilian researchers found that current density and active species concentration are the main variables affecting capacity loss. The approach successfully mitigated cross-contamination, providing an optimal flow between electrolyte tanks under different operating conditions.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateNov 22, 2023

Template for success: Shaping hard carbon electrodes for next-generation batteries

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science developed nanostructured hard carbon electrodes using inorganic zinc-based compounds, which deliver unprecedented performance and significantly increase the capacity of sodium- and potassium-ion batteries. The new electrodes improve energy density by 1.6 times compared to existing technologies.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 13, 2023
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.

Experimental pacemaker converts heartbeat energy to recharge battery

Researchers developed a wireless, leadless pacemaker that can partially recharge its battery by converting mechanical energy into electrical energy. The device harvested approximately 10% of the energy necessary to pace the next beat, paving the way for longer battery life and reduced procedures for younger patients.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 6, 2023

New designs for solid-state electrolytes may soon revolutionize the battery industry

Researchers have developed a novel chloride-based solid electrolyte with exceptional ionic conductivity, addressing material limitations that hindered previous attempts. This breakthrough is expected to pave the way for commercialization of solid-state batteries, promising improved affordability and safety.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 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.

Efficient biohybrid batteries

Researchers developed a fast-charging hybrid battery system that combines electrochemical generation of formic acid with a microbial fuel cell, enabling efficient energy storage. The system produced enough current for 25 hours of discharge and demonstrated potential applications in monitoring water toxicity.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 31, 2023

New battery technology could lead to safer, high-energy electric vehicles

Researchers at the University of Maryland have developed a new technology to suppress lithium dendrite growth in all-solid-state batteries, which could increase energy storage and reduce safety risks. The innovative method, led by Professor Chunsheng Wang, stabilizes battery interfaces and prevents short circuits.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalNature·DateOct 27, 2023

Iodine improves lithium thionyl chloride battery discharge performance and rechargeability

Researchers have incorporated molecular iodine into the SOCl2 battery electrolyte to increase discharge rate and enable efficient recharging. This breakthrough enables Li-SOCl2 batteries to be used in devices requiring low rates of energy discharge, increasing their practicality for routine energy storage.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 26, 2023

IIT’s first ever-made rechargeable edible battery nominated on TIME’s 2023 list of Best Innovations

Researchers at Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia have developed the world's first rechargeable edible battery, utilizing food-grade materials like almonds and capers. The battery can power small electronic devices for a limited time and has potential applications in health monitoring, food storage, and children's toys.

SourceIstituto Italiano di Tecnologia - IIT·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2023

Who is the ultimate winner of the two strategies to protect cathode for constructing long-cycle performance all-solid-state batteries?

Researchers investigated two strategies to improve the cycling performance of all-solid-state batteries. The first strategy involves coating the cathode surface, which improves electrochemical performance, but the second strategy using halide electrolytes shows promise despite its limitations. The study suggests that a combination of b...

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2023
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.

Unified picture on temperature dependence of lithium dendrite growth via phase-field simulation

A team of scientists has investigated the effect of initial temperature on Li dendrite morphology through temperature-dependent ionic diffusion coefficient, reaction coefficient, and conductivity. They found a unified picture for the seemingly contradictory dendrite-promoting and dendrite-inhibiting effects of increased temperature in ...

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2023

Sustainable living technology

New technology enables self-sustaining modules to assemble, disassemble and recycle, offering unprecedented sustainability for electronic devices. The innovation is part of a larger field of Microelectronic Morphogenesis, which aims to replicate living systems through controlled form creation.

SourceChemnitz University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 11, 2023

Scientists illuminate the mechanics of solid-state batteries

A team of researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory developed a framework for designing solid-state batteries with mechanics in mind. They highlighted the critical role of material properties and mechanical stressors in affecting SSBs during cycling, and proposed techniques to make electrolytes more ductile and anodes more stable.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateOct 7, 2023

The past and present of 3D-printed critical materials for rechargeable batteries

Recent research highlights the excellent electrochemical performance of critical 3D printing materials in rechargeable batteries. The study outlines the typical characteristics of major 3D printing methods used in fabricating electrochemical energy storage devices and discusses crucial materials for 3D printing of rechargeable batterie...

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateOct 7, 2023
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.

Developing a configuration of a PEMFC battery that is 10% more efficient

Researchers at the University of Seville have developed a more efficient configuration for proton-exchange membrane fuel cell batteries, increasing their performance by up to 10%. The new design outperforms other options and reduces energy consumption, making it suitable for use in electric vehicles.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalEnergy·DateOct 5, 2023

Novel battery technology with negligible voltage decay developed at CityU, a world’s first

A breakthrough in battery technology has been achieved by City University of Hong Kong, overcoming the persistent challenge of voltage decay in lithium-ion batteries. The new development stabilises a unique honeycomb-like structure within the cathode material, resulting in longer-lasting and more efficient batteries.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

A new twist on rechargeable battery performance

Scientists discovered that solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer behaves like a semiconductor, causing electron leakage and leading to inferior battery performance. Minimizing organic components in SEI enables longer-lasting batteries.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

It's easier to get valuable metals from battery waste if you ‘flash’ it

Researchers at Rice University have developed a high-yield, low-cost method for reclaiming metals directly from mixed battery waste. The new process uses the 'flash' technique to separate critical metals, reducing energy and acid consumption by up to 100-fold and lowering carbon dioxide emissions.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023
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.

Design of high-performance high temperature proton Exchange Membrane -Poly (triphenyl piperidinium) with long side chain alkyl quaternization

The team developed poly(triphenyl piperidinium) based high-temperature proton exchange membranes with improved physicochemical properties, demonstrating enhanced proton conductivity and mechanical stability. The membranes showed promising performance in fuel cell applications, with the highest peak power density achieved at 210 °C.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2023

New study unveils direct synthesis of FCMs via solid-state mechanochemical reaction between graphite and PTFE

Researchers developed a novel solid-state mechanochemical reaction to synthesize FCMs from PTFE and graphite, producing materials with enhanced storage capacity and electrochemical stability. The new method bypasses toxic reagents and offers a safer alternative for practical applications.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateSep 22, 2023

One-atom-thick ribbons could improve batteries, solar cells and sensors

The researchers created nanoribbons made of phosphorus and tiny amounts of arsenic, which were able to conduct electricity at high temperatures. The arsenic-phosphorus ribbons have also turned out to be magnetic, opening up possibilities for quantum computers.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2023

UT Dallas to lead $30 million battery initiative

The University of Texas at Dallas will develop and commercialize new battery technologies, enhance domestic raw material availability, and train workers for the expanding battery industry. The Energy Storage Systems Campus will leverage $200 million in private capital.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·DateSep 18, 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.

Initiating high voltage multi-electron reactions in NASICON cathodes for aqueous zinc/sodium batteries

Scientists initiate high voltage multi-electron reactions in NASICON cathodes to enhance the performance of aqueous zinc/sodium batteries. The study proposes using transition metal ion substitution to augment structural stability and increase capacity, offering a promising strategy for advancing the technology.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2023