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Reaching national electric vehicle goal unlikely by 2030 without lower prices, better policy

A new study from Indiana University warns that the US is unlikely to reach its national goal of 50% plug-in electric vehicle penetration by 2030 unless electric vehicles become more affordable. The study suggests that lower prices and better policy are needed to stimulate consumer demand for affordable electric vehicles.

SourceIndiana University·JournalFrontiers in Environmental Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 13, 2022

High-accuracy electric vehicle battery monitoring with diamond quantum sensors for driving range extension towards carbon neutrality

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed diamond quantum sensors to accurately measure EV battery charge. The sensors can detect small changes in current with 1% accuracy, extending driving range by up to 10%. This breakthrough reduces CO2 emissions and supports carbon neutrality.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

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

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

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

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Emerging technology could help extract lithium from new sources

Scientists have discovered that there is enough lithium in unconventional water sources to make extraction worthwhile. The composition of these sources affects the performance of emerging electrochemical intercalation technology, providing insights for refining and optimizing it.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 26, 2022

Researchers have created a profile of electric car purchasers and drivers

Researchers created a profile of electric vehicle buyers and drivers, highlighting the importance of environmental communities and concern for air quality. The study also emphasizes the need for further research to analyze the association between purchasing an electric car and caring for the environment.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalJournal of Business Research·DateJul 25, 2022

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

Electric vehicles pass the remote road test

A new study from Australian National University finds that electric vehicles can handle the distances required to travel to essential services in remote and regional Australia. The results show that 93% of residents could do these trips with even lower-range electric vehicles, without needing to recharge en route.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalAustralian Geographer·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 8, 2022
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

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.

Inadequate charging networks could thwart EV adoption goals

Researchers warn policymakers that inadequate charging networks can derail EV adoption efforts, particularly if floods disrupt charging infrastructure, affecting not just the immediate area but also farther away. Strong public confidence in the network is crucial for long-term adoption and meeting carbon reduction targets.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Communications·TypeNews article·DateJun 15, 2022

New model finds best sites for electric vehicle charging stations

Researchers developed a computational model to determine optimal places for electric vehicle charging facilities and powerful stations without straining the local power grid. The model considers travel flow, user demand, and regional power infrastructure needs.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalComputer-Aided Civil and Infrastructure Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 6, 2022

A 50% reduction in emissions by 2030 can be achieved. Here’s how

A new study suggests achieving a 50% reduction in US greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 is possible through increasing renewable capacity and transitioning to electric vehicles. This would limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, aligning with the UN's climate target.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2022
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Ancient ocean floors could help search for critical minerals

Researchers at The University of Queensland have discovered a method to date calcite trapped in ancient ocean floors, which could aid in sourcing critical minerals for electric cars and solar panels. This breakthrough could help meet the growing demand for renewable energy technologies.

SourceUniversity of Queensland·JournalGeochronology·TypeObservational study·DateJun 2, 2022

Electrolyte additive offers lithium battery performance breakthrough

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

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateJun 1, 2022

How a cognitive bias is blocking the rise of electric cars

A UNIGE team found that car owners systematically underestimate electric driving ranges to meet their daily needs. To overcome this, researchers suggest providing personalized information to increase drivers' willingness to adopt electric vehicles.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Energy·TypeNews article·DateMay 19, 2022
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.

Upscale hotels benefit from EV charging stations, study shows

A new study by Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University finds that upscale hotels in Texas benefit most from hosting Tesla charging stations between 2015-2018. The study suggests that the benefits are due to brand alignment and the presence of nearby tourist attractions, which attract customers seeking charging services.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalJournal of Travel Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 19, 2022

Helping EVs keep their cool during the battery weight balancing act

Researchers at Drexel University have developed a design optimization system to incorporate blood vessel-like cooling networks into battery packaging for electric vehicles. The system balances performance-enhancing factors against problematic variables like weight and thermal activity to provide the best battery package specifications.

SourceDrexel University·JournalComposites·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 16, 2022

Using e-bike purchase incentive programs to expand the market

A new white paper from Portland State University explores how purchase incentive programs can expand the current e-bike market, identifying effective program structures and administration methods. The study examines impacts and statistics from around 75 e-bike incentive programs in North America.

SourcePortland State University·DateMay 6, 2022

Researchers now able to predict battery lifetimes with machine learning

Scientists have developed a machine learning algorithm that can accurately predict the lifetimes of different battery chemistries using as little as a single cycle of experimental data. The technique could reduce costs and accelerate the development of new battery materials, enabling researchers to quickly evaluate and test multiple ma...

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateMay 5, 2022
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Discovery: A strain of algae may accelerate the industrial transition from the use of polluting gray hydrogen to environmentally friendly green hydrogen

A new strain of algae has been identified that can produce green hydrogen gas via photosynthesis on an industrial scale. This breakthrough could accelerate the transition to environmentally friendly green hydrogen and reduce pollution. The researchers also plan to develop methods to increase production rates and reduce costs.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 10, 2022

L.A.’s injury rate from e-scooters may exceed national rate for motorcycles

A recent UCLA study found that the injury rate for e-scooter riders in Los Angeles is higher than the national rates for motorcycle, bicycle, car, and pedestrian injuries. The study estimates 115 injuries per 1 million e-scooter rides, highlighting a growing risk as e-scooters proliferate globally.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles Health Sciences·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 6, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Pivotal battery discovery could impact transportation and the grid

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have discovered a key reason for the performance decline of sodium-ion batteries, which are promising candidates for replacing lithium-ion materials. By adjusting synthesis conditions, they can fabricate far superior cathodes that will maintain performance with long-term cycling.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 24, 2022
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.

Could we make cars out of petroleum residue?

Researchers at MIT have developed a way to create lightweight fibers out of petroleum residue, offering advantages over traditional carbon fiber materials. The new process uses heavy waste material left over from refining, reducing production costs and enabling the creation of load-bearing applications.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 18, 2022

Road traffic isn’t just bad for the air — it could also be a major source of water pollution

A new study found that heavy traffic near roads is a significant contributor to water pollution, with contaminants from vehicle fluids, paints, and tires affecting nearby rivers. The study suggests that these pollutants come from road surfaces and are transported to watersheds through stormwater run-off.

SourceUniversity of Toronto·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 15, 2022

Climate change and lithium mining negatively influence flamingos

A study found that lithium mining and climate change have caused a 10-12% decline in two species of flamingos in the Salar de Atacama lake. The birds can move to other lakes, but as demand for lithium increases, their habitats may be further threatened.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·JournalProceedings of the Royal Society B Biological Sciences·DateMar 9, 2022
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Safer, more powerful batteries for electric cars, power grid

Solid-state batteries with little liquid electrolyte are safer than lithium-ion batteries in many cases. However, they also have limitations, such as slow lithium ion movement from the solid electrolyte to electrodes.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalJoule·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 7, 2022

Improving the safety of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles

Researchers at Universitat Politècnica de València are working on improving the safety of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles. They aim to reduce thermal instability and prevent fires, with potential benefits for the automotive sector and beyond.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 4, 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.

Clues to better batteries emerge from tracking lithium

Researchers used x-rays to track lithium deposition and removal from a battery anode during cycling, identifying irregularities that lead to reduced capacity and lifespan. Incomplete lithium stripping causes dead spots on the anode, reducing cell capacity and electron flow.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalJournal of The Electrochemical Society·DateFeb 28, 2022

A potential breakthrough for production of superior battery technology

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a method to produce micro-supercapacitors, which can increase battery lifespan and enable fast charging. The new production process is scalable and could lead to significant environmental benefits by reducing battery recycling needs.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·Journalphysica status solidi (b)·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022
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.

Perfecting the EV battery recycling process

A new study from Chalmers University of Technology outlines an optimized recycling process for electric vehicle batteries, reducing thermal treatment times to just 30 minutes and operating at room temperature. This process can increase the efficiency of metal recovery, lower environmental impacts, and reduce costs.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalWaste Management·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

A new electrolyte for greener and safer batteries

A new material, sodium carbo-hydridoborate, improves the performance of solid-state sodium batteries, making them more sustainable and durable. The ideal pressure to be applied to the battery for efficient operation has also been defined.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·TypeNews article·DateFeb 10, 2022

Breakthrough in cathode chemistry clears the path for Li-S batteries' commercial viability

Researchers at Drexel University have developed a stable sulfur cathode that functions in a commercially viable carbonate electrolyte, enabling Li-S batteries with three times the capacity of Li-ion batteries and lasting over 4,000 recharges. This breakthrough paves the way for more sustainable battery alternatives.

SourceDrexel University·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2022
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

It’s in the air – battery discovery takes up the charge

Researchers at UTS have designed a molecule to tackle issues with lithium-oxygen batteries, increasing discharge capacity and efficiency. The breakthrough paves the way for long-life, energy-dense batteries capable of matching petrol-fuelled cars' driving ranges.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

COP26 deal sparks hope for positive tipping points

Researchers say a new framework can help trigger positive tipping points to tackle the climate crisis, including the growth of plant-based diets and regenerative farming methods. The Breakthrough Agenda at COP26 signals a shift in thinking, aiming to tip economic sectors into a green state.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalGlobal Sustainability·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 8, 2022

Are cities the key to the electric revolution?

Newcastle University researchers argue that cities can use local policies and incentives to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles. The authors highlight the importance of balancing demand pull-ins with technology push-ins to overcome barriers and enablers. Cities' own fleets, procurement systems, and fiscal powers can also help s...

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Electronics·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJan 31, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

How a smart electric grid will power our future

A novel plan to deploy smart transactive energy systems on the US power grid could reduce daily load swings by 20-44% and save consumers up to $50 billion annually. By coordinating with utilities, consumers can dynamically control big energy users like heat pumps and electric vehicle charging stations.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateJan 25, 2022

Rubber material holds key to long-lasting, safer EV batteries

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have discovered a promising alternative to conventional lithium-ion batteries made from a common material: rubber. The material, when formulated into a 3D structure, acts as a superhighway for fast lithium-ion transport with superior mechanical toughness.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2022
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Fast and durable batteries to come: A promising anode material for lithium-ion batteries

Researchers at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have developed a promising anode material for lithium-ion batteries that can enable extremely fast charging. The material, made from a bio-based polymer, showed enhanced lithium-ion kinetics and durability, retaining up to 90% of its capacity after 3,000 charge-discharge...

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalChemical Communications·DateDec 20, 2021

UCF researchers’ ethanol fuel cells offer new alternative to power cars, technology

The University of Central Florida researchers have developed an alcohol-based power source for cars and other technology that uses less fuel and produces fewer emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels. The ethanol fuel cell has achieved a maximum power density and operation time of over 5,900 hours, making it a promising alternat...

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Significant energy savings when electric distribution vehicles take their best route

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed an algorithm that learns optimal energy usage for electric delivery-vehicles. By focusing on overall energy usage instead of just distance travelled, the vehicles can reduce their energy consumption by up to 20% and minimize battery usage.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalTransportation Research Part E Logistics and Transportation Review·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 13, 2021

Adding sound to electric vehicles improves pedestrian safety #ASA181

A study by Penn State University and Virginia Tech Transportation Institute found that electric vehicle sounds can improve pedestrian safety, but with some cases of false negatives at close ranges. Adding sound to electric vehicles increases detection distances beyond minimum safe detection ranges.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateNov 30, 2021

GIST scientists showcase the potential of demand response in reducing CO2 emissions

A team of scientists from GIST developed an AI-based approach to analyze and extract user behavior data, estimating the optimal demand response management for each household. The study showcases how AI can improve electricity consumption, leading to lower prices and a smaller carbon footprint.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Smart Grid·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 24, 2021