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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
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.

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

Breakthrough research enhances stability and efficiency of perovskite solar cells

Researchers developed a chemically protective cathode interlayer using amine-functionalized perylene diimide, which stabilizes perovskite solar cells. The novel solution-processed PDINN cathode interlayer achieved impressive performance with over 81% retention and record-high bias-free solar hydrogen production rate.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateJan 22, 2024

Hidden cause of lithium-rich cathode materials’ low energy efficiency revealed

A research team found that voltage hysteresis in Li2RuO3 is attributed to different intermediate crystalline phases formed during charge and discharge processes, not irreversible structure changes. This discovery challenges conventional theory and has implications for developing high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2024

Understanding the relationship between the performance of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells and hydrogen partial pressure

Researchers have made significant strides in understanding the relationship between hydrogen partial pressure and PEMFC performance, revealing a pronounced decline in performance as hydrogen partial pressure decreased. The study aims to simplify fuel cell quality testing, cost reduction, and reduced safety requirements.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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

From CO2 to green chemicals—researchers are one step closer

An international team at DTU has increased the durability of CO2 electrolyzers, enabling the conversion of captured CO2 into valuable green chemicals like ethylene and ethanol. The breakthrough could play a significant role in the green transition by reducing global CO2 emissions

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Catalysis·DateNov 14, 2023

Cathode active materials for lithium-ion batteries could be produced at low temperatures

A team of researchers at Hokkaido University has developed a new method to synthesize layered lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) at low temperatures, reducing synthesis time from hours to minutes. The hydroflux process produces crystalline LiCoO2 with properties only marginally inferior to commercially available materials.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalInorganic Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Revolutionizing energy storage: Metal nanoclusters for stable lithium–sulfur batteries

Researchers have developed a metal nanocluster-based separator for lithium-sulfur batteries, accelerating electrochemical kinetics and improving capacity and cycling stability. The technology has the potential to increase the adoption of sustainable energy storage systems, including electric vehicles and renewable energy.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 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
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.

Unlocking the potential of silicon anode materials for commercialized batteries

Researchers propose analysis protocol to evaluate feasibility of silicon-containing batteries with reduced particle size and uniform dispersion. The study finds promising results from innovative synthesis technology and initial efficiencies exceeding 90% with improved lifespan characteristics.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Energy·DateSep 28, 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

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
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.

New design rule for high-entropy superionic solid-state conductors

Researchers from Tokyo Tech have developed a new strategy to produce solid electrolytes with enhanced lithium-ion conductivity, preserving their superionic conduction pathways. The proposed design rule enables the synthesis of high-entropy active materials for millimeter-thick battery electrodes.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 6, 2023

An ingredient in toothpaste may make electric cars go farther

Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory discovered a new fluoride electrolyte that can protect lithium metal batteries against performance decline. The electrolyte maintains a robust protective layer on the anode surface for hundreds of cycles, enabling the battery to last longer.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 28, 2023
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.

Zapping municipal waste helps recover valuable phosphorus fertilizer

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed an electrochemical device that can recover phosphorus fertilizer from municipal waste with high efficiency. The device achieved over 93% efficiency in recovering phosphorus and precipitating approximately 99% of it into solid form.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2023

Extracting a clean fuel from water

A low-cost catalyst developed by Argonne National Laboratory can produce clean hydrogen from water at a lower cost, making it an ideal choice for replacing fossil fuels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The new catalyst uses cobalt instead of expensive iridium, significantly reducing the cost and increasing efficiency.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateMay 30, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

An electric vehicle battery for all seasons

A new fluorine-containing electrolyte has been developed to perform well in sub-zero temperatures, addressing the issue of cold weather affecting electric vehicle battery effectiveness. The research demonstrates how to tailor the atomic structure of electrolytes for low-temperature applications.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateMay 17, 2023

Carbon-based cathodes impact biofilm composition and performance in soil microbial fuel cells

Researchers found that Fe-doped carbon nanofibers and Pt-doped carbon cloth cathodes yielded stable performances, with peak power densities of 25.5 mW m−2 and 30.4 mW m−2, respectively. Graphite felt cathodes demonstrated the best electrochemical performance but exhibited lower reproducibility and higher mass transport losses.

SourceChinese Society for Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·DateMay 12, 2023
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.

Oxford University Fellow and Diamond User recognized for his innovative, sustainable Na-ion battery materials research by Forbes Magazine

Robert House, a Senior Research Fellow at Oxford University, has been selected as one of Forbes Magazine's prestigious 30 people to watch under 30 in Europe Science and Healthcare. He is working on developing innovative, sustainable Na-ion battery materials that promise to be significantly lower cost than conventional Li-ion batteries.

SourceDiamond Light Source·DateMay 12, 2023

Boosting the capacity and voltage of zinc-air batteries

Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a zinc-air battery with an open circuit voltage of over 2V, overcoming the major bottleneck for metal-air batteries. By arranging acidic/alkaline electrolytes in tandem, they were able to generate a higher voltage and improve output power density.

SourceTohoku University·JournalAPL Energy·DateMay 9, 2023

X-ray imaging captures fleeting defects in sodium-ion batteries

A Cornell University-led collaboration has identified transient crystal defects as the cause of rapid degradation in sodium-ion batteries. The researchers used operando X-ray imaging to visualize these defects while the battery was in operation, revealing their formation and self-healing processes.

SourceCornell University·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateMay 1, 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.

Researchers develop high-performance 2D pseudocapacitive multi-electron reaction lithium storage material

Researchers developed a high-performance 2D pseudocapacitive multi-electron reaction lithium storage material, exhibiting high capacity and ultrafast charging capabilities. The material showed improved electronic and ionic conductivity, reducing polarization and increasing overall energy density.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 27, 2023

Air-breathing cathode enhances energy conversion efficiency and durability of alkaline nickel-zinc batteries

Researchers at Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics have developed an air-breathing cathode for alkaline nickel-zinc batteries, improving cycling stability and energy efficiency. The novel battery exhibits ultra-long lifespan and high energy efficiency, surpassing conventional Ni-Zn batteries.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 26, 2023

CO2 recycling: What is the role of the electrolyte?

Researchers have developed an electrolyte to improve the efficiency of CO2 conversion into useful hydrocarbons. The study found that controlling the concentration of the electrolyte is crucial in regulating product formation, with too much potassium leading to clogage and reduced selectivity.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2023

New strategy for cathode materials in Li-Cl2 battery

Researchers have developed a new design of cathode materials in Li-Cl2 batteries, achieving high specific capacities of up to 2000 mAh/g and stable performance for over 500 cycles. The use of NH2-functionalized MOFs enhances the redox reaction kinetics and improves low-temperature stability.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalJoule·DateApr 8, 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.

Simple, environmentally friendly coating can improve battery performance

A new study reveals how ferroelectric coatings improve all-solid-state lithium batteries by reducing space charge layers and enhancing lithium transportation. The coatings made from guanidinium perchlorate increase battery capacities to near-liquid lithium-ion levels.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateApr 6, 2023

Team finds major storage capacity in water-based batteries

Texas A&M researchers have found a significant increase in energy storage capacity of water-based battery electrodes, paving the way for safer and more stable batteries. The discovery could provide an alternative to lithium-ion batteries, which are facing material shortages and price increases.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 3, 2023

Turning vegetable oil industry waste into power: innovative electrode modification improves bio-electrochemical treatment of wastewater

Researchers have developed a novel and cost-effective anode catalyst that can improve and stabilize power generation performance of MFCs treating vegetable oil industry wastewater. The study investigates modification of electrodes to increase bacterial adhesion and efficient electron transfer.

SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalJournal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology·DateMar 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.

Researchers design new route for all-solid-state li-based batteries

A team of researchers has proposed a new technical route for all-solid-state lithium-based batteries (ASSLBs), overcoming limitations with highly compressible and conductive cathode material. This breakthrough could lead to safer and more energy-dense batteries.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023

Beyond lithium: a promising cathode material for magnesium rechargeable batteries

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have found a promising cathode material for magnesium rechargeable batteries, achieving better cyclability and high battery capacity. The Mg1.33V1.67O4 system with substituted vanadium and manganese shows superior charge-discharge properties.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of Electroanalytical Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2023

New sodium, aluminum battery aims to integrate renewables for grid resiliency

Researchers developed a new molten salt battery design using sodium and aluminum that can charge and discharge faster, operate at lower temperatures, and maintain excellent energy storage capacity. The battery's specific energy density could reach up to 100 Wh/kg, making it a promising solution for 10-plus hours of energy storage.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2023

Elucidation of electrolyte decomposition behavior in all-solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology elucidated the decomposition behavior of electrolytes in cathode composites of all-solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries. The sulfide solid electrolytes convert to thiophosphates with long-chain cross-linked sulfur during charging and discharging cycles, governing battery performance.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalChemistry of Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 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.

Metal-free batteries raise hope for more sustainable and economical grids

Researchers at KAUST developed a high-efficiency metal-free battery using ammonium cations as charge carriers, outperforming existing analogues with a record operation voltage of 2.75 volts. This breakthrough provides potential for lowering battery costs and enabling large-scale applications.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 10, 2023

Team stabilizes nickel-rich cathodes for use in long-life lithium-ion batteries

A team from East China University of Science and Technology has developed a simple, one-step dual-modification strategy to restrain side reactions in nickel-rich layered cathodes. The resulting cathode material exhibits superior electrochemical performance with excellent long-term cycling stability.

SourceParticuology·JournalParticuology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 5, 2023
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 zoom in on battery wear and tear

Researchers at the University of Chicago's Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering have used a combination of electron microscopy and computational modeling to understand how lithium-ion batteries degrade. They found that variation between areas of the battery, particularly electrolyte corrosion, leads to faster degradation.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalJoule·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 22, 2022

Stabilizing lithium-ion batteries with microbially synthesized electrolyte additive

Researchers from Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have developed a sustainable, eco-friendly compound to stabilize high-energy density lithium-ion batteries. The microbially synthesized pyrazine diamine compound significantly improves battery performance, reducing degradation and increasing operating potential.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 30, 2022
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

New materials could enable longer-lasting implantable batteries

Researchers at MIT have developed a new approach to improve the energy density of nonrechargeable batteries, enabling up to a 50% increase in useful lifetime. The new design uses a fluorinated catholyte material that reduces dead weight and improves safety.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 7, 2022

Recent progress in synthesis and surface modification of nickel-rich layered oxide cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries

Researchers from South China University of Technology have developed novel surface modification techniques for nickel-rich layered oxide cathode materials, improving their electrochemical performance. The techniques allow for high-performance nickel-rich cathode materials to be synthesized, enabling in-depth mechanisms to be captured a...

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateOct 31, 2022

CityU chemists boost eco-friendly battery performance using catalysts with unconventional phase nanostructures

Researchers have discovered an innovative way to enhance the energy efficiency of metal-carbon dioxide batteries by introducing unconventional phase nanomaterials as catalysts. The novel design boosts battery energy efficiency up to 83.8%, contributing to carbon-neutral goals.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2022
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Membranes help multiply microbial CO2 munching

Researchers at KAUST developed conductive membranes that stimulate microbial growth and separate biochemical products, reducing the CO2 conversion time from over 30 days to just one month. The membranes use nickel nanoparticles to catalyze hydrogen production, enhancing efficiency and stability in microbial electrosynthesis systems.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateSep 20, 2022

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

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
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.

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