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The reasons behind lithium-ion batteries’ rapid cost decline

A new study found that research and development on chemistry and materials science were key factors behind the significant cost decline of lithium-ion batteries. The analysis revealed that over 50% of the cost reduction came from R&D activities, with chemistry and materials research being the primary contributors.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateNov 22, 2021

New scalable method resolves materials joining in solid-state batteries

Scientists at ORNL developed a scalable, low-cost method to improve materials joining in solid-state batteries, resolving one of the big challenges in commercial development. The electrochemical pulse method increases contact at the interface without detrimental effects, enabling an all-solid-state architecture.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

A new model for selling surplus energy from electric vehicles to local grids shows potential savings for V2G users in six major US cities

Researchers at the University of Rochester develop a computational V2G model that accounts for factors not previously considered, showing potential savings of $120-$150 per year for vehicle owners. The model uses data from the US Census Bureau and calculates battery degradation costs based on various variables.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 9, 2021

That new EV battery will be a headache to recycle. These solutions can help.

Researchers found that a battery's chemistry can affect its environmental impact, with cobalt being a common material that requires more energy to mine and has negative effects on the environment. Replacing cobalt with nickel can alleviate concerns, but there are tradeoffs involved. The study suggests that reusing batteries before recy...

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 9, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Climate benefits from modest dips in oil demand likely underestimated, Stanford-led study finds

A new Stanford-led study suggests that decreasing oil demand leads to larger-than-expected carbon reductions, as the impact varies depending on market factors. The research takes into account the global oil market's structure, including perfect competition, oligopoly, and cartel scenarios, to estimate climate benefits.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 8, 2021
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

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

Researchers determine optimum pressure to improve the performance of lithium metal batteries

The study found that a stack pressure of 350 kilo Pascal increases lithium particle deposition in neat columns, improving stability and reducing the risk of short circuits. Additionally, partial discharge during cycling can also boost performance without affecting the solid electrolyte interphase structure.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 2021

Fire tests show that Austria's tunnels are fit for electric cars

Fire tests in Austrian tunnels found that e-vehicles pose a lower risk than conventional cars. However, multistorey car parks and commercial vehicles like e-buses and e-trucks require further investigation. The results provide reassurance for tunnel safety.

SourceGraz University of Technology·TypeCase study·DateOct 7, 2021

Silicon anodes muscle in on battery technology

Researchers have observed for the first time how silicon anodes degrade in lithium-ion batteries due to swelling and electrolyte infiltration. This degradation leads to reduced battery capacity and charging speed, but scientists are exploring ways to protect silicon from these effects.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 5, 2021
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.

Chemists provide a new look at the problem of energy efficiency in lithium-ion batteries

A new study refutes a long-standing explanation for low energy efficiency in lithium-ion batteries, suggesting that voltage hysteresis is caused by reversible electron transfer between oxygen and transition metal atoms. This phenomenon could be mitigated through manipulation of electron transfer barriers.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNature Chemistry·DateSep 16, 2021

Surprisingly high emissions from fuel-powered auxiliary heaters in cars

Researchers discovered that particulate emissions from auxiliary heaters can be significantly higher than those of idling gasoline vehicles, raising concerns about their environmental impact. The study highlights the need for further research on the use and development of heaters to reduce emissions.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalAtmosphere·DateSep 9, 2021

Stanford researchers make rechargeable batteries that store six times more charge

The new alkali metal-chlorine batteries can cycle up to 200 times and achieve a capacity of 1,200 milliamp hours per gram, significantly outperforming commercial lithium-ion batteries. Researchers envision their batteries being used in satellites and remote sensors where frequent recharging is not practical.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2021

Speed and absorption key to optimizing new type of rechargeable battery

Researchers at OIST developed a hybrid material to improve lithium sulfur battery performance, reducing polysulfide dissolution and increasing efficiency. The new design resulted in shorter charging times, longer life between charges, and improved overall lifespan.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Hybrid cars are twice as vulnerable to supply chain issues as gas-powered models

Researchers found hybrid electric vehicles have twice the vulnerability to supply chain disruptions as gas-powered models, due to volatile battery prices and scarce materials. Long-term supplier contracts and material substitution can mitigate these risks as manufacturers ramp up EV production.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateJul 28, 2021

More EVs could reduce CO2 emissions in Hawaii by 93% in less than 30 years

Faster EV adoption and renewable energy generation will significantly reduce CO2 emissions in Hawaii, with a potential decrease of up to 93% by 2050. This is made possible through mathematical models created by University of Hawaii at Manoa faculty member Katherine McKenzie.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalWorld Electric Vehicle Journal·DateJul 7, 2021
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

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

Advancing research on environmentally friendly, hydrogen-enriched fuel

A team of researchers, led by Dr. Muzammil Arshad, conducted a study on the performance of hydrogen-enriched fuel in spark ignition engines. The findings show that adding hydrogen can reduce in-cylinder peak pressure and emissions, making it a potential solution to improve fuel efficiency and reduce harmful emissions.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalPetroleum and Chemical Industry International·DateJun 22, 2021

Innovative batteries put flying cars on the horizon

Researchers at Penn State have designed and tested prototype batteries for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) vehicles, which require high energy density and rapid charging. The batteries can sustain over 2,000 fast-charges and retain some charge to ensure safety in the air.

SourcePenn State·JournalJoule·DateJun 7, 2021
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.

We need to build more EV fast-charging stations, researchers say

A study of charging patterns on a University of California San Diego campus found that DC fast chargers were less affected by the pandemic, with usage returning to near-normal levels. The researchers recommend deploying additional DCFCs on campus and beyond to support growing EV adoption.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateMay 6, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

New optical hydrogen sensors eliminate risk of sparking

A new study from the University of Georgia has developed an inexpensive and spark-free optical-based hydrogen sensor that detects hydrogen presence without electronics, making it safer for widespread use. The sensor boasts faster response time and increased sensitivity compared to previous models, addressing key hurdles in hydrogen pow...

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 29, 2021

New alloy can directly reduce the weight of heat removal systems by a third

Scientists at NUST MISIS created new magnesium alloys that can reduce the weight of heat-removing elements in electric vehicles and consumer electronics by one third. The alloys offer high thermal conductivity and low cost, making them suitable for modern gadgets.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalJournal of Magnesium and Alloys·DateApr 23, 2021

Energy consumption of urban electric vehicles

Researchers analyzed a database of over 3 million urban electric vehicles in China to understand energy consumption patterns. They found that energy consumption changes by up to 21% during winter-to-spring seasonal transitions.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 19, 2021
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.

Renewable energy grants

Researchers will explore decision-making processes for adopting solar energy systems and electric vehicles, as well as improve the efficiency and manufacturing process for solar panels. The studies aim to identify non-technological barriers to clean-energy adoption and evaluate the effectiveness of low-cost interventions and incentives.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateMar 22, 2021

In a leap for battery research, machine learning gets scientific smarts

Researchers combined machine learning with physics and chemistry to discover a process that shortens lithium-ion battery lifetimes, overturning long-held assumptions. The approach could dramatically accelerate the development of sturdier batteries for electric vehicles.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 8, 2021

Solar awnings over parking lots help companies and customers

Retailers can increase customer comfort and attract EV owners by installing solar canopies on parking lots. This can provide a path for green consumerism and incentivize shopping, ultimately increasing store selection and profit.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalRenewable Energy·DateFeb 10, 2021
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

How to get more electric cars on the road

A new study from MIT researchers reveals that installing charging stations on residential streets and adding high-speed charging stations along highways can greatly increase the adoption of electric cars. The findings suggest that making convenient charging options available to people, especially those with limited access to garages or...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Energy·DateJan 21, 2021
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Charging ahead for electric vehicles

KAUST researchers applied statistical geometry to study the impact of wireless charging roads on driver behavior and city planning. They found that drivers would have an 80% chance of encountering a charging road after driving 500 meters when installed on 20% of roads.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalIEEE Open Journal of Vehicular Technology·DateJan 3, 2021

Engineered electrode material moves battery research closer to 'holy grail'

Researchers have developed an engineered electrode material that enables high-capacity Lithium-ion batteries with fast-charging capabilities. The material, combining black phosphorus and graphite, shows improved stability and efficiency, restoring 80% of its full capacity in under 10 minutes.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalScience·DateOct 8, 2020
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.

New study shows converting to electric vehicles alone won't meet climate targets

A new study published in Nature Climate Change estimates that meeting UN climate targets would require up to 90% of US passenger vehicles to be electric by 2050. The researchers found that a fleet of 350 million EVs would increase electricity demand by 41%, posing significant technological and infrastructure challenges.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalNature Climate Change·DateSep 28, 2020

New composite material revs up pursuit of advanced electric vehicles

Scientists at Oak Ridge National Laboratory created a composite material that increases electrical current capacity of copper wires, enabling more efficient electric vehicle traction motors. The new material can be scaled for use in ultra-efficient devices with improved performance and reduced cost.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateSep 21, 2020

The road to cheaper electric vehicles

UD Prof. Koffi Pierre Yao receives a $1 million grant to create a next-generation battery that will power devices longer, making them more affordable and accessible. The new anode material can store up to 10 times the energy of current batteries.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateSep 14, 2020
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.

Predicting the slow death of lithium-ion batteries

A new algorithm developed by Stanford University scientists can accurately predict the remaining storage capacity and charge level of lithium-ion batteries in real-time. This innovation has the potential to enable smaller battery packs and greater driving ranges in electric vehicles, reducing costs and environmental impact.

SourceStanford University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Control Systems Technology·DateSep 14, 2020

Intelligent software for district renewable energy management

Maestro, a predictive software developed by CSEM, analyzes weather forecasts and data from local infrastructure to determine the best time to consume energy. The system can reduce heating costs by approximately 20% and is designed to keep costs down, making it suitable for individual homes and entire neighborhoods.

SourceSwiss Center for Electronics and Microtechnology - CSEM·DateSep 4, 2020

Berkeley Lab science snapshots

A Berkeley Lab study finds that California's winter precipitation will become 50% more variable by 2100, affecting agriculture, flood control, and water resource management. The MJO, a global rainfall pattern, is expected to transfer its precipitation-related atmospheric conditions to the West Coast via changes in strong winds.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Climate Change·DateAug 10, 2020
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.

Research determines financial benefit from driving electric vehicles

Researchers at NREL have found that driving electric vehicles can save motorists as much as $14,500 on fuel costs over 15 years. The study considered state-by-state differences and the cost of charging equipment and installation costs to estimate total fuel cost savings.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalJoule·DateJun 23, 2020

Engineers develop new fuel cells with twice the operating voltage as hydrogen

Engineers have developed high-power direct borohydride fuel cells that can power unmanned underwater vehicles and drones with significantly lower cost. The new fuel cells operate at double the voltage of conventional hydrogen fuel cells, allowing for a smaller and more efficient design.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateJun 17, 2020

What do electric vehicle drivers think of the charging network they use?

A new study from Georgia Institute of Technology reveals surprising findings about electric vehicle drivers' perceptions of charging stations, highlighting the importance of quality infrastructure. Contrary to conventional wisdom, public charging stations do not receive more positive reviews than private ones, and dense urban areas exp...

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJun 8, 2020

Worth their salt: Skoltech and MIPT researchers report first case of hexagonal NaCl

Researchers at Skoltech and MIPT predicted and experimentally confirmed the existence of exotic hexagonal NaCl thin films on a diamond surface. The films may be useful as gate dielectrics for field-effect transistors in electric vehicles and telecommunication equipment.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateMay 25, 2020

AI techniques used to improve battery health and safety

A new machine learning method can predict battery health with 10x higher accuracy, enabling safer and more reliable batteries for electric vehicles and consumer electronics. The method is non-invasive and uses electrical pulses to measure the response of lithium-ion batteries.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 6, 2020
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.

Better, safer batteries

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a new fluorinated cyclic phosphate solvent electrolyte that improves upon existing ethylene carbonate, offering nonflammable properties and increased voltage tolerance. This breakthrough could lead to longer journeys in electric vehicles and improved fire safety in home energy storage.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Energy·DateMar 27, 2020

What to expect when you're expecting electric transportation

A new study explores strategies that could help reduce emissions from the transport industry by combining economic and transport models and data from 17 regions around the world. In one scenario, countries producing only electric vehicles and implementing a carbon pricing strategy led to a global mean temperature increase of 1.82 degre...

SourceHiroshima University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateFeb 25, 2020

Cobalt supply can meet demand for electric vehicle and electronics batteries

The study found that cobalt supply is adequate in the short term, but could be affected by refining and recycling. The researchers recommend increasing efficient capacity to meet growing demand from consumer electronics and electric vehicles. By 2030, the team estimates cobalt demand will reach 235-430 thousand metric tons.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 19, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Fast-charging, long-running, bendy energy storage breakthrough

Researchers have developed a new supercapacitor that combines high power density and energy density, enabling fast charging and long runtime. The device can be bent to 180 degrees without compromising performance, making it ideal for wearable electronics and electric vehicles.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Energy·DateFeb 17, 2020