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Support for carbon capture and sequestration is key to a greener, more reliable grid

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University find that existing coal-fired plants can produce electricity at a cost comparable to renewables with energy storage. The study suggests modifications to current tax incentives to increase deployment of carbon-constrained fossil-fuel and negative emissions technologies.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateAug 5, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Smart thermostats inadvertently strain electric power grids

A study by Cornell University engineers reveals that smart thermostats inadvertently cause peak demand on the grid during off-peak hours, offsetting greenhouse gas emissions benefits. The researchers propose educating consumers to use smart thermostats and staggering morning ramp-up times to mitigate this issue.

SourceCornell University·JournalApplied Energy·DateJul 13, 2022

New biobatteries use bacterial interactions to generate power for weeks

Researchers at Binghamton University have developed a 'plug-and-play' biobattery that lasts for weeks using three bacteria in separate vertical chambers. The batteries can be stacked to improve output voltage and current, offering a solution for long-term power autonomy in remote locations.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateJun 28, 2022

SwRI study examines oxide growth in additively manufactured metals in sCO2 environment

A new joint study by Southwest Research Institute and Sandia National Laboratories examines the effects of supercritical carbon dioxide (sCO2) on oxide film growth on additively manufactured metals and wrought stainless steel. The study found that both types of metals showed oxide growth, but with significant differences in grain size ...

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·JournalCorrosion Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 2022

Towards indoor lighting-powered thin-film, flexible solar cells with piezophototronics

Ritsumeikan University researchers create a novel thin-film flexible piezoelectric-photovoltaic device that can generate electricity from indoor lighting. The device's performance is improved through strain-induced polarization in the ZnMgO layer, increasing open-circuit voltage and overcoming charge recombination issues.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalNano Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 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.

Cutting air pollution emissions would save 50,000 US lives, $600 billion each year

A new study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers suggests that eliminating air pollution emissions from energy-related activities in the United States would prevent over 50,000 premature deaths each year. The study also found that this action could provide more than $600 billion in benefits annually from avoided illness and d...

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalGeoHealth·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 16, 2022

Towards more efficient, non-toxic, and flexible thin-film solar cells

Researchers at Ritsumeikan University in Japan have developed a new method to fabricate cadmium-free thin-film solar cells with improved energy conversion efficiency. The process replaces toxic materials with native buffer layers formed through air-annealing, reducing waste and increasing the potential for large-scale manufacturing.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalSolar RRL·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2022

Wireless self-powered ammonia leakage monitor system developed for ammonia-energy ships

Researchers have developed a full-set wireless self-powered ammonia leakage monitor system for ammonia-energy ships, which includes a honeycomb triboelectric nanogenerator-based power generation system and a carbon nanotube doped polypyrrole-based ammonia detection system. The system exhibited good performance with low detection limits...

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNano Energy·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMay 6, 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.

Sapphire fiber could enable cleaner energy and air-travel

Researchers have developed a sensor made of sapphire fibre that can withstand temperatures over 2000°C, enabling significant improvements in efficiency and emission reduction in aerospace and power generation. The technology has potential applications in space and fusion power industries.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalOptics Express·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 21, 2022

Study finds offshore wind could drive down energy costs in New England

A new analysis found that offshore wind power in New England could reduce wholesale electricity prices by $28.81 megawatts per hour, while lowering emissions consistently. However, extreme winter storms may cause temporary losses of power due to high wind speeds, but these events are rare and do not break the system.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnergy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 21, 2022

Guiding a superconducting future with graphene quantum magic

Scientists have identified magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene as a promising material for high-temperature superconductivity. Researchers found that nematic order in MATBG originates from the interference between fluctuations of a novel degree-of-freedom combining valley and spin degrees.

SourceNagoya University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 18, 2022

Bacteria generate electricity from methane

Researchers have discovered that bacteria can convert methane into electricity, with 31% efficiency, providing a potential breakthrough for renewable energy and reducing greenhouse gas emissions in contaminated water sources.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2022
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.

Scientists identify a water-responsive material that functions as a powerful actuator

A research team at the Advanced Science Research Center has identified peptidoglycan as the most powerful actuator material. The new water-responsive muscles can quickly expand and contract in response to water absorption and evaporation, enabling rapid actuation of micro and macro structures.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 14, 2022

Disaggregate and rule: Optimizing power consumption estimation in commercial buildings

Researchers propose a disaggregation strategy to estimate power consumption of individual electrical facilities, improving accuracy over traditional methods. The new approach uses linear regression residuals and clustered daily routines to provide more accurate estimations for workdays and holidays.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalEnergy and Buildings·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 28, 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.

Nuclear power may be the key to least-cost, zero-emission electricity systems

New research suggests nuclear power can provide low-cost energy and replace natural gas as a backup source, enabling faster decarbonization in countries with poor wind resources. The analysis found that nuclear is the cheapest way to eliminate all electricity-system carbon emissions nearly everywhere.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 14, 2022

Pursuing carbon neutrality and water security in China

A new study suggests that China's pursuit of carbon neutrality could lead to significant water savings, with 24% of industrial water use expected to be saved by 2060. However, some provinces may struggle to meet their water-use targets, and coordinated climate-water strategies are needed to address these challenges.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalOne Earth·DateFeb 14, 2022

Chemists find path to cheap deployment of hydrogen fuel cells

Cornell University chemists have developed a class of nonprecious metal derivatives that can efficiently power cars and generate electricity with minimal greenhouse gas emissions. The breakthrough could enable wider deployment of hydrogen fuel cells, replacing combustion engines and reducing waste.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 3, 2022
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.

New tool models fairer electricity trade

Researchers propose a new model for electricity trade that balances economic interests and considers the stability of economic ties. The model suggests ways to improve cooperation between nations and prioritize transit country interests.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Power Systems·DateDec 15, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Apples to apples: How similarity theory could boost fuel cell research

A comprehensive review of similarity theory in PEMFC research reveals its potential to accelerate progress. The study highlights the benefits of using dimensionless analysis to compare results and reduce testing efforts. However, challenges remain in developing integrated performance criteria.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalEnergy Storage and Saving·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 30, 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

Using liquid metal to turn motion into electricity – even underwater

North Carolina State University researchers develop a soft and stretchable device that harnesses kinetic energy from movement to generate electricity. The device works in both dry and wet environments, including underwater, with a power density comparable to popular energy harvesting technologies.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2021

Making patient care easier: Self-powered diaper sensors that monitor urine sugar levels

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science developed a self-powered diaper sensor that monitors urine sugar levels, providing an alternative biomarker for blood sugar monitoring. The sensor uses a biofuel cell powered by glucose in the urine, detecting sugar levels within 1 second and simplifying caretaking tasks.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalACS Sensors·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2021

Finding the cause of a fatal problem in rocket engine combustors

Researchers found significant periodic flow velocity fluctuations in fuel injector ignite combustion oscillations, leading to high mechanical stress on the combustion chamber. The findings provide a reasonable answer for why these oscillations occur and have significant implications for preventing fatal damage in critical engines.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalPhysics of Fluids·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 2, 2021
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.

Similarity of legs, wheels, tracks suggests target for energy-efficient robots

The U.S. Army Research Laboratory has developed a new formula that applies to a broad range of legged, wheeled, and tracked systems, showing they are as efficient as other ground mobile platforms. The findings have implications for designing future terrestrial robots for defense applications, particularly in challenging terrain.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 2, 2021

The powerhouse future is flexoelectric

Scientists at the University of Houston have demonstrated giant flexoelectricity in soft elastomers, paving the way for improved robot movement range and self-powered pacemakers. The breakthrough could also enable human-like robots to perform physical tasks with greater flexibility.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 2, 2021

Harnessing the hum of fluorescent lights for more efficient computing

A team at the University of Michigan has developed a material that boosts magnetostriction, allowing for more energy-efficient computing devices. The material could lead to significant reductions in electricity requirements and improve magnetic sensors for medical and security devices.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 12, 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.

Diversity can prevent failures in large power grids

Researchers at Northwestern University found that heterogeneity in power grid frequencies leads to faster stabilization when generators are damped by breakers at different rates. This discovery could improve stability and design of future grid systems.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 1, 2021

No disassembly required: Non-destructive method to measure carrier lifetime in SiC

Researchers at Nagoya Institute of Technology have developed a new non-destructive method to measure carrier lifetime in SiC, allowing for the study and adoption of SiC in ultrahigh-voltage applications. This technique enables the measurement of carrier lifetimes within thick voltage blocking layers without destroying the sample.

SourceNagoya Institute of Technology·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateJan 12, 2021

Supporting renewable electricity: EU member states should coordinate reform efforts

A new study highlights the importance of coordinated policy reforms in supporting renewable electricity across EU member states. Without coordination, investors may shift their focus to subsidized technologies or countries with available subsidies, increasing the overall costs of expanding renewable energy generation in Europe. Strengt...

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalEnergy Policy·DateDec 15, 2020
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.

New blended solar cells yield high power conversion efficiencies

Researchers at Hiroshima University created a blended solar cell by adding a compound that absorbs long wavelengths of light, increasing the device's efficiency by 1.5 times. The team discovered that distributing the material is key to further improved power generation efficiency.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalMacromolecules·DateDec 9, 2020

Making a case for organic Rankine cycles in waste heat recovery

Research suggests that cascaded organic Rankine cycle systems can outperform single-stage systems in certain applications, but the trade-off between performance and cost is significant. The study's findings provide valuable insights into delivering environmentally-friendly power from waste heat.

SourceCity St George’s, University of London·JournalEnergy·DateNov 11, 2020
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.

Data tool helps users manage water resources, protect infrastructure

Researchers developed a tool to connect streamgage and reservoir data, providing critical information for managing water systems efficiently. The tool accounts for hydrological connections over large watersheds and can be used by power plant operators, reservoir operators, and water resource managers.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScientific Data·DateOct 7, 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.

Green electricity for Europe: Small scale solutions also affordable

A new study by researchers in Potsdam and Zurich shows that smaller scale systems incur a cost penalty of less than 20% compared to continental-scale systems. However, with cooperation between grid operators and neighboring grids, the cost penalties can be reduced, supporting current efforts to establish a European electricity market.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalJoule·DateAug 14, 2020

Discovery will allow more sophisticated work at nanoscale

Researchers have developed a new understanding of fluid movement in tiny channels and created a method to stimulate flow by manipulating surface tension through temperature or voltage changes. This discovery has implications for various fields, including drug delivery, energy conversion, and power generation.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateJul 28, 2020

The role of European policy for improving power plant fuel efficiency

A new study published in the Journal of the Association of Environmental and Resource Economists finds that European Union Emissions Trading Scheme improves power plant fuel efficiency, reducing annual carbon emissions by 1.5 to 2 percent in Germany.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of the Association of Environmental and Resource Economists·DateMay 8, 2020
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.

Half of US deaths related to air pollution are linked to out-of-state emissions

A study by MIT researchers found that over half of US air-quality-related early deaths are caused by emissions from other states. Electric power generation is the main culprit, accounting for up to 75% of cases. However, deaths associated with air pollution have decreased significantly since 2005, with a 30% reduction in 2018.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateFeb 12, 2020

New understanding of condensation could lead to better power plant condenser, de-icing materials

New research shows that the slipperiness between droplets and solid surfaces is more critical for clearing condensation than previously thought. The findings could lead to cost-effective alternatives to water-repellent materials, such as ceramic or metal surfaces, which could last longer and be more durable.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 23, 2020

Tipping mechanisms could spark societal change towards climate stabilization

Researchers identified six socio-economic tipping elements, including divestment from fossil fuels and climate-neutral cities, that can drive rapid global decarbonization. Permanent support and backing by changes in norms and values are crucial for sustaining these transitions.

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 20, 2020

Researchers solve a scientific mystery about evaporation

A team of researchers from the University of Houston has solved a scientific mystery about evaporation, shedding light on its role in industrial processes. The new understanding eliminates a long-standing bottleneck in predicting evaporation rates, enabling more accurate simulations and design of advanced systems.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateJan 13, 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.

Electric power generation and biodiversity

A global study reveals that demand for electric power poses significant threats to biodiversity, particularly in countries where coal is a major energy source. The research suggests shifting to renewable energy sources could mitigate these impacts.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 2, 2019

Thermo-chemical power generation integrated with forced convection cooling

This study demonstrates a novel self-sustaining liquid-cooling system that partially recovers lost thermal energy through electric power generation. The integration of thermo-electrochemical conversion with forced convection cooling enables the use of wasted heat for pumping coolant, reducing the need for active cooling.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateNov 27, 2019

Grid reliability under climate change may require more power generation capacity

Researchers developed a new modeling approach that considers climate and water impacts on electricity infrastructure development, revealing the U.S. power grid may require an additional 5.3% to 12% of capacity to meet demand and reliability requirements. The study suggests viable solutions include tradeoffs in regional technology choic...

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·DateNov 21, 2019

Penn State awarded $3.3M to develop more efficient gas turbines

The US Department of Energy has funded three Penn State projects to enhance combustion turbine performance and efficiency in fossil fuel power generation. Researchers will utilize additive manufacturing techniques to improve cooling effectiveness, fuel injection hardware, and ceramic matrix composite turbine vanes.

SourcePenn State·DateNov 7, 2019
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.