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Bendable energy storage materials by cool science

Researchers developed mesoporous metal oxides on flexible materials using synergetic effect of heat and plasma at lower temperatures. The devices can withstand bending thousands of times without losing energy storage performance.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 18, 2024

A new world of 2D material is opening up

Researchers at Linköping University have developed a method to synthesize hundreds of new 2D materials, expanding the possibilities for energy storage, catalysis, and water purification. The study uses a three-step process, including large-scale computations and chemical exfoliation, to identify and create suitable materials.

SourceLinköping University·JournalScience·DateMar 14, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Breakthrough research enables high-density hydrogen storage for future energy systems

Scientists have developed a nanoporous magnesium borohydride structure that stores five hydrogen molecules in three-dimensional arrangement, achieving unprecedented high-density hydrogen storage. The material exhibits a capacity of 144 g/L per volume of pores, surpassing traditional methods and offering a promising alternative to large...

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 6, 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.

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

Ammonia attracts the shipping industry, but researchers warn of its risks

A study from Chalmers University of Technology found that the production and use of ammonia as a marine fuel can lead to eutrophication, acidification, and emissions of potent greenhouse gases. Researchers warn that the pursuit of low-carbon fuels may create new environmental challenges.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalApplied Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 5, 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
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 sustainable method for creating organic semiconductors

Researchers at Linköping University have developed a new, sustainable way to create conductive inks for use in organic electronics. The new process uses benign solvents like water and has been shown to improve material properties and device performance.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 22, 2024

Researchers unveil useful strategies for sustainable gas storage and separation with clathrate hydrates

A new study by GIST researchers provides efficient hydrogen storage solutions using clathrate hydrates, overcoming limitations such as limited gas storage capacities and slow formation rates. The study offers crucial insights for developing clathrate hydrate-based technologies for carbon dioxide separation and hydrogen storage.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAccounts of Chemical Research·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 8, 2024

Huge benefits of merging hydropower and desalination

A new system combines pumped hydro storage with reverse osmosis desalination to produce both electricity and freshwater. The Integrated Pumped Hydro Reverse Osmosis System (IPHROS) can supply 661,000 homes' worth of energy and water daily.

SourceCornell University·JournalApplied Energy·DateDec 6, 2023
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.

GIST researchers improve water splitting reaction for green hydrogen gas production

Researchers from GIST have developed a new electrode using Schottky junctions to overcome the conductance limit of active catalysts, achieving high-performance water splitting and hydrogen evolution reactions. The electrode demonstrated remarkable current density and durability during continuous operation for 10 days.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalApplied Catalysis B Environment and Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2023

Scaling up nano for sustainable manufacturing

Researchers have developed a new self-assembling nanosheet that can create functional and sustainable nanomaterials for various applications. The material is recyclable and can extend the shelf life of consumer products, enabling a sustainable manufacturing approach.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 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.

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

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

A newly hierarchically porous pyrolysis-free bifunctional catalyst to boost ultralong lifespan zinc-air batteries

Researchers have created a hierarchically porous bifunctional catalyst that enhances the transport of reactants and products in zinc-air batteries. The pyrolysis-free strategy allows for improved durability and efficiency, making it an important step towards commercializing this technology.

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

What drives obesity - diets high in fat? Carbohydrates? Actually, it’s everything – and fructose is at the center

A new study led by Richard Johnson, MD, suggests that fructose is the key driver of obesity, bringing together long-incompatible theories on dietary causes. Fructose lowers active energy in the body, triggering hunger and food intake, and fatty foods become the major source of calories driving weight gain.

SourceUniversity of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus·JournalObesity·DateOct 17, 2023

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
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.

Unlocking innovation: Multistable mechanical metamaterials’ evolution in design, manufacturing, and applications

Multistable mechanical metamaterials can switch between multiple stable configurations under external loading, making them reusable and efficient for quick action. Their unique properties make them promising for various engineering applications, including energy absorption, soft actuators/robots, and wave control.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateOct 10, 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

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
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

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

Improving the properties of sweeteners for enhanced thermal energy storage

Scientists have created a new class of solid-state phase change materials using sugar alcohols, which can store-and-release heat more efficiently. By confining these compounds in covalent organic framework crystals, the researchers were able to suppress supercooling and retrieve thermal energy at higher temperatures.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalMaterials Horizons·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2023

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

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

A call for better energy system models to enable a decarbonized future

Energy system models fail to accurately represent energy storage, potentially leading to unreliable grid operations and increased costs. Leading researchers from Argonne National Laboratory highlight the need for improved models to accommodate new technologies like solar power and grid energy storage.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateSep 14, 2023
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.

Previously unknown pathway to batteries with high energy, low cost and long life

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have discovered a previously unknown reaction mechanism that addresses the major shortcoming of lithium-sulfur batteries - their very short lifetimes. The new pathway prevents sulfur loss and performance decline in commercial-size cells, paving the way for more sustainable transportation options.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateSep 7, 2023

Energy storage in molecules

A team of researchers has discovered a particularly efficient molecular structure for solar energy storage materials, which could lead to more efficient solar energy harvesting. The new molecules were identified by screening over 400,000 molecules with the help of machine learning and quantum computing.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 30, 2023

New review in Energy Reviews discusses progress in the design of porous volumetric solar receivers

The study provides a condensed overview of recent advances and challenges in atmospheric and pressurized PVSRs, highlighting potential for improving performance through geometrical parameter optimization and spectrally selective absorption. Standardized evaluation methods remain essential to unlock the full potential of PVSRs.

SourceEnergy Reviews·JournalEnergy Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 28, 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.

Chromium replaces rare and expensive noble metals

Chemists at the University of Basel have developed chromium compounds that can replace osmium and ruthenium in luminescent materials and catalysts. The new materials are nearly as effective as some osmium compounds and are about 20,000 times more abundant and cheaper than their noble metal counterparts.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalNature Chemistry·DateAug 14, 2023

The road to the future of Li-rich solid-state battery

Researchers propose surface modification and novel structural designs to stabilize Li-rich cathodes in solid-state batteries. The review discusses potential solutions for interfacial ion and electron transfer issues.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 13, 2023

Chloride ions from seawater eyed as possible lithium replacement in batteries of the future

Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute discovered a new redox chemistry empowered by chloride ions for the development of seawater green batteries. This technology leverages abundant elements such as iron oxides and hydroxides, potentially repurposing iron rust waste materials for modern energy storage.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalChemistry of Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 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.

Dry manufacturing process offers path to cleaner, more affordable high-energy EV batteries

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a dry battery manufacturing process that eliminates toxic solvents and improves durability. The new method enables higher energy density and better long-term cyclability, paving the way for cleaner, more affordable high-energy EV batteries.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 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.

Bound states in the continuum is possible in the acoustoelastic coupling

A research team at POSTECH successfully demonstrated the existence of bound states in the continuum using an acoustoelastic coupling structure. The phenomenon enables the confinement of elastic waves, similar to light particles, facilitating applications such as vibration focusing and energy harvesting.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalExtreme Mechanics Letters·DateJul 11, 2023

Machine learning takes materials modeling into new era

A new machine learning-based simulation method called Materials Learning Algorithms (MALA) has been developed, enabling accurate electronic structure calculations at large scales. MALA achieves this by utilizing a hybrid approach that combines physics-based approaches with machine learning to predict the electronic structure of materials.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·Journalnpj Computational Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 7, 2023

New study shatters conventional wisdom and unlocks the future of electrochemical devices

Researchers at the University of Cambridge discovered that ions conduct faster than electrons in conjugated polymer electrodes, challenging conventional wisdom. This finding provides valuable insights into the factors influencing charging speed and offers opportunities to engineer materials with improved performance.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 6, 2023
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 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

How microgrids can help communities adapt to wildfires

A new study finds that clean energy microgrids can reduce power outages in wildfire-prone areas of California by up to 30%, cutting costs from 15-30 cents per kWh compared to conventional technologies.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalApplied Energy·DateJun 15, 2023

New recipes for better solar fuel production

A team of researchers from China and the UK has developed new ways to optimise the production of solar fuels by creating novel photocatalysts. These photocatalysts, such as titanium dioxide with boron nitride, can absorb more wavelengths of light and produce more hydrogen compared to traditional methods.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalApplied Surface Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2023

Improving market design for energy storage

A new study finds that electricity market design plays a crucial role in trade-offs between more affordable energy and lower carbon emissions. Researchers discovered that participating in day-ahead markets reduces carbon emissions, while real-time markets reduce costs.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalJoule·DateJun 8, 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.

More complex than expected: Catalysis under the microscope

Scientists at TU Wien use microscopy techniques to observe chemical reactions on catalysts, revealing a wealth of detail that challenges previous understanding. The study shows that even simple catalytic systems are more complex than expected, with different scenarios prevailing on the micrometer scale.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalACS Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

Optimizing the properties and microstructure of bulk superconductors

Japanese researchers develop improved ternary superconductor bulks from liquid sources, demonstrating enhanced performance and microstructural analysis shows significant reductions in secondary phase particle size. The findings have huge potential for applications in magnetic levitation, electric motors, and energy systems.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Alloys and Compounds·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers improve the solubility of redox molecules for enhanced energy storage systems

Researchers from GIST have developed a hydrotropic-supporting electrolyte to enhance the solubility of organic redox molecules in aqueous systems. This improvement enables the creation of high-energy-density electrochemical capacitors with potential applications in redox flow batteries.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 1, 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.

Long-duration energy storage: the time is now

Long-duration energy storage (LDES) is crucial for US states with decarbonization goals to address variable energy generation and customer demands. LDES systems can store renewable energy until needed, providing a reliable solution for a decarbonized grid.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Energy Storage·DateMay 25, 2023