Researchers develop a new optimization model integrating electricity and hydrogen systems to evaluate the potential value of long-duration energy storage (LDES) in a net-zero grid. The integration of LDES technologies reduces overall annual cost of the electricity grid by tens or hundreds of millions of pounds.
SourceTsinghua University Press·JournaliEnergy·DateMay 24, 2022
Concentrated solar power (CSP) plants use wet cooling methods to dissipate waste heat, but this can lead to significant water loss. A new study developed a radiative cooling system with cold storage that reduces water consumption by up to 85% in hot regions.
SourceCactus Communications·JournalEnergy Storage and Saving·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 23, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
The study reveals significant information on the thermal properties of electric double-layer capacitors, which can help create safer and more reliable energy storage devices. The research team found that charging and discharging alter the heat capacity of EDLCs, leading to a decrease in capacitance.
SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022
Researchers overview properties and disadvantages of cathode materials, focusing on metal-based compounds and carbon-based materials. Modification methods, including surface treatment and decoration, are discussed to enhance performance of Br-FBs.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2022
Researchers at MIT and NREL have designed a thermophotovoltaic cell that converts heat to electricity with over 40% efficiency, surpassing traditional steam turbines. The new design could enable a fully decarbonized power grid by storing excess energy from renewable sources.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateApr 13, 2022
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have successfully converted solar energy into electricity using a thermoelectric generator. The new technology can store solar energy for up to 18 years and release it when needed, making it a promising solution for renewable energy production.
SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 11, 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.
The 'freeze-thaw battery' can store energy for months without significant loss of capacity, making it a key step towards seasonal energy storage. The battery uses molten-salt and common materials to achieve this, with the potential to enhance grid resilience during severe storms or power outages.
SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateApr 5, 2022
A recent study by Uppsala University has identified the main limitations in lithium-sulfur batteries, which are hampered by short lifetimes and energy loss. The research aims to develop new strategies and materials to improve battery performance, making them more suitable for heavy truck applications.
Researchers have discovered the opto-ionic effect, where light increases the mobility of ions in ceramic materials, improving the performance of devices such as solid-state electrolytes in fuel cells and lithium-ion batteries. This effect could lead to higher charging speeds and more efficient energy conversion technologies.
SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2022
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a way to prevent short-circuiting in yarns designed to store energy by wrapping them with an insulating thread. The findings could advance the development of smart textiles that capture energy from wearer's movements and power sensors.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·Journalnpj Flexible Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 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.
Scientists at the University of Groningen have designed a new type of flow battery that stores power in a simple organic compound. This breakthrough addresses the limitations of traditional flow batteries, which contain rare metals and are expensive.
SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 16, 2022
Argonne scientists are developing new materials for batteries, researching sustainable fuels, and expanding carbon-free energy sources like nuclear power. They're also exploring ways to capture and utilize CO2, with the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and slowing global warming.
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
Magnesium-based batteries offer a promising alternative to lithium-ion batteries, with several significant advantages. However, developing cost-effective and high-performance batteries requires further research on electrolyte development, anode design, and cathode structure.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2022
Researchers have discovered a new solid electrolyte composed of lithium, scandium, indium, and chlorine that offers several advantages. The electrolyte conducts lithium ions well but electrons poorly, making it suitable for all-solid-state batteries with improved safety and energy density.
SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateFeb 14, 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.
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
Dudney's pioneering work in solid-state battery materials has led to the development of high-performance, long-lasting batteries with improved safety and performance. Her innovations have been licensed by 24 companies and recognized globally as a role-model in energy storage materials research.
Researchers at Surrey and the Federal University of Pelotas developed a low-cost, environmentally friendly way to produce flexible supercapacitors. The new technology can significantly extend the lifespan of Internet of Things devices, such as smartwatches and fitness trackers.
SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalNanoscale·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022
Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have discovered a super-elastic high-entropy Elinvar alloy that retains its stiffness even after being heated to 1000 K. The alloy's unique structure and chemical composition allow it to store a large amount of elastic energy, making it suitable for high-precision devices in aerospace enginee...
SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 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.
Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have created a hydrogen-rich lanthanum hydride that shows high hydride ion conductivity even at room temperature. The material's unique properties make it an ideal candidate for efficient chemical reactors and energy storage systems.
SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2022
Researchers at NIMS and Softbank Corp. have created a lithium-air battery with an energy density of over 500 Wh/kg, significantly higher than existing lithium-ion batteries. The new battery can be charged and discharged at room temperature, showcasing the highest energy densities and best cycle life performances achieved.
SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalMaterials Horizons·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 20, 2022
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed a new water-splitting process and material that maximize the efficiency of producing carbon-free green hydrogen. The hybrid catalysts show superior performance for both oxygen and hydrogen splitting, making it an affordable and accessible option for industrial partners.
SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalApplied Catalysis·TypeObservational study·DateJan 14, 2022
Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed high-performance sodium and potassium ion batteries using sustainably sourced cellulose. The new battery technology outperforms comparable systems and uses a sustainable material, offering great potential for large-scale applications in electric vehicles and energy storage grids.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 5, 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.
Researchers discovered a way to revitalize rechargeable lithium batteries by mobilizing inactive lithium towards electrodes, increasing capacity and lifespan. This process, which involves applying an extra step during charging, slowed degradation and increased lifetime by nearly 30%.
SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 3, 2022
Researchers developed P-/Sn-based composites with high-capacity and stability anode materials for sodium-ion batteries. The study reveals a new approach to produce cost-effective and scalable solutions.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 2021
Researchers highlight importance of digital microscale electrochemical energy storage devices in building a fully connected and intelligent world. They discuss design principles, material selection, and fabrication processes for these devices, which are crucial for seamless integration with various electronic systems.
SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateDec 15, 2021
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.
A new method of predicting battery failure has been developed, showing accuracy 15-20% higher than current approaches. The technique uses advanced probabilistic machine learning and is applicable to any battery with a simple electrical circuit model.
Researchers at NTU Singapore have developed biodegradable zinc batteries made of cellulose paper that can power flexible electronics and biomedical sensors. The batteries are non-toxic, do not require aluminum or plastic casings, and can be buried in soil to break down within weeks.
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateDec 14, 2021
Researchers from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Georgia Institute of Technology, and the University of California, Berkeley, describe advances in understanding phase change materials for thermal energy storage. Better understanding liquid state physics may help accelerate technology development for the energy sector.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateDec 14, 2021
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a flexible and washable battery that can withstand repeated use and laundry cycles. The battery's construction creates an airtight seal and uses safer chemistry, making it suitable for wearable devices worn next to the skin.
SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2021
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.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a new sodium-based battery material that overcomes the dendrite problem in earlier sodium batteries. The new material recharges as quickly as a traditional lithium-ion battery and has a higher energy capacity than existing sodium-ion batteries.
SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2021
Researchers developed a novel lithium-containing crosslinked polymeric material, LiGL, which exhibits exceptional protection effects on lithium metal anodes. The material achieves superior cycling stability, even after over 20,000 Li-stripping/plating cycles without failures.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2021
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
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.
Researchers evaluate various technologies for extracting lithium from hot, saline brines, facing technical challenges due to high heat and dissolved minerals. The Salton Sea region in California is identified as a major domestic source of lithium, with the goal of developing environmentally friendly 'green' lithium sources.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalEnergies·DateNov 29, 2021
Scientists from City University of Hong Kong successfully developed battery-like electrochemical Nb2CTx MXene electrodes with stable voltage output and high energy density. The findings break the performance bottleneck of MXene devices, exhibiting superior rate capability, durable cyclic performance, and high energy density.
SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2021
An international research team led by Jennifer L. Schaefer has analyzed the potential of magnesium-ion-conducting solid polymer electrolytes in two separate battery systems. The study found that these electrolytes exhibit higher thermal, mechanical, and electrochemical stability compared to traditional liquid electrolytes, making them ...
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 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.
Researchers developed a molecular compound that serves as a low-cost electrolyte for redox flow batteries, enabling stable operation and high capacity retention. The compound overcomes limitations of previous electrolytes by increasing its hydrophilicity and conductivity.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 12, 2021
Researchers developed new materials with enhanced adsorption capabilities, promising advancements in hydrogen storage, oil spill cleanup, and sensor development. The polymerization mechanism and kinetics were analyzed, revealing a significant impact of solvation on reactivity.
SourceKazan Federal University·JournalPolymer Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2021
Researchers found that combining resource diversification, excess generation, building efficiency, and demand flexibility can reduce or eliminate long-duration energy storage in some regions. This approach enables the achievability of a fully renewable system with technology building blocks accessible today.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateNov 3, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.
Researchers developed a new mechanism of adsorption called mechanisorption, which can store significant amounts of energy by recruiting molecules onto surfaces at high concentrations. This breakthrough has implications for energy storage, controlled release, and environmental remediation.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 21, 2021
Researchers at Korea Maritime and Ocean University have created a state-of-the-art catalyst for urea-based fuel cells using inexpensive nickel chalcogenides, outperforming precious metal-based catalysts. This breakthrough could lead to the widespread adoption of clean energy technologies in remote areas and beyond.
SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 2021
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
Researchers have developed a shape memory polymer that can store up to 17.9 J/g energy, allowing it to lift objects 5,000 times its own weight upon heating. The polymer's high energy density and low cost make it an ideal material for soft robotics, smart biomedical devices, and deployable space structures.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateSep 8, 2021
Scientists create a flexible supercapacitor using wrinkled titanium carbide nanosheets that maintains its ability to store and release electronic charges after repetitive stretching. The device has a high energy capacity comparable to existing MXene-based supercapacitors, but with extreme stretchability up to 800% without cracking.
SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 8, 2021
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.
Researchers found that certain nanomaterials break down rapidly when exposed to light but decompose slowly in its absence. This discovery highlights the need for better understanding of nanomaterial behavior under environmental conditions.
SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateSep 1, 2021
Researchers at the University of Konstanz have discovered that MXenes can be switched repeatedly between a flat and a rippled shape by applying femtosecond laser pulses. This discovery could lead to improved energy storage capacity, enhanced catalytic or antibiotic activity, and new applications in sensing and active plasmonic devices.
SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 1, 2021
A WVU-led research team will test the potential of geothermal energy by drilling three miles into the ground. The project aims to reduce carbon footprint and decrease energy costs for the university, with potential implications for industries across West Virginia.
Berkeley Lab researchers developed a method to increase the efficiency of LED devices by applying mechanical strain to thin semiconductor films. This approach reduces exciton annihilation, allowing for high-performance LEDs even at high brightness levels.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021
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 at Nagoya City University find a fourfold increase in surface deuterium atoms on nanocrystalline silicon, paving the way for sustainable deuterium enrichment protocols. The efficient exchange reaction could lead to more durable semiconductor technology and potentially purify tritium contaminated water.
SourceNagoya City University·JournalPhysical Review Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 16, 2021
A clean US hydrogen economy is achievable but requires a comprehensive strategy and infrastructure development. The US needs to consider the production, transport, storage, use, and economic viability of hydrogen to make it viable on a societal scale.
SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 11, 2021
Researchers at NC State re-examined birnessite's behavior, finding that nanoconfined interlayer structural water mitigates ion interactions, enabling an intermediate adsorption mechanism. This leads to capacitive behavior without significant structural change.
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021
New study by Stanford and Carnegie Mellon researchers finds that managing high salinity brines from efficient underground carbon sequestration imposes significant energy and emissions penalties. The approach prioritizes storage in low salinity reservoirs, minimizing extraction ratios and recovery extent to reduce penalties.
SourceStanford University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 25, 2021
Researchers from Stony Brook University and UMass Lowell will investigate ways to make energy generation, storage, and system operation more efficient and reliable, particularly in microgrid settings. The research program aims to address challenges in energy resiliency and advance the next generation of energy systems.
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.
Researchers at the University of Bristol discovered that liquid gallium maintains local order and forms regions of low entropy with five-fold symmetry even at extremely high pressures. This finding opens up new avenues for studying rapid temperature quenched melts leading to the production of metallic glass materials.
SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 9, 2020
Researchers propose novel temporal-spatial ordering and dynamic smart behavior in hollow multishell structures (HoMS), enabling efficient energy conversion and storage. The unique structure facilitates sequential electromagnetic wave harvesting and cascade catalytic reactions.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Reviews Chemistry·DateFeb 13, 2020
A team of Australian scientists has discovered that diamond can be bent and deformed at the nanoscale, creating possibilities for the design and engineering of new nanoscale devices. The discovery opens up a range of possibilities for applications in sensing, defence and energy storage.
SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateFeb 5, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB
Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.
A new control system has been developed to better control wind energy systems, improving efficiency and reducing costs. By decoupling power generation and feedback, the system enables turbines to respond quicker and with less strain on physical components.
SourceChinese Association of Automation·JournalIEEE/CAA Journal of Automatica Sinica·DateNov 6, 2019
Researchers have synthesized a novel sponge-like 2D material with interesting electrical conductivity and magnetic properties. The material, NiTAA-MOF, can conduct electricity when doped with iodine, making it potentially useful for optoelectronics and energy storage.
SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 31, 2019
A collection of papers by industry and academia experts explores the implications of FERC Order 841 on energy storage in the Midwest. The analysis reveals the region's potential as a case study for bringing energy storage to scale, with benefits including increased capacity value of renewables and reduced variability.
SourceCambridge University Press·JournalMRS Energy & Sustainability·DateMay 23, 2019
Chain Reaction Innovations' third cohort of five new innovators will leverage Argonne National Laboratory's resources to develop market-ready businesses. The program aims to accelerate energy and science technologies, with a focus on water sensing, hydrogen technologies, and energy storage.