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Plasma jets stabilize water to splash less

Researchers at KAIST discovered that plasma jets produce more stable interactions with water surfaces compared to neutral gas jets, reducing bubbling and splashing. The study's findings will help improve our understanding of plasma-liquid interactions and their applications in various industrial fields.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature·DateApr 1, 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.

From microsaws to nanodrills: laser pulses act as subtle machining tools

Using spatially structured ultrashort laser pulses, materials can be modified with diverse effects, from marginal refractive index changes to destructive microscale explosions. This technology allows true micron-scale material processing due to extremely short exposure times and low thermal diffusion.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalOptical Engineering·DateFeb 26, 2021

Medieval containers hint at thriving wine trade in Islamic Sicily

The study reveals chemical traces of grapes in medieval amphorae, suggesting a prosperous wine trade across the Mediterranean. The discovery implies that the Islamic community in Sicily produced and exported wine, contradicting previous assumptions about their consumption habits.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 22, 2021

Amination strategy improves efficiency of CO2 electrocatalytic reduction

Researchers developed a two-step amination strategy to enhance the intrinsic activity of M-N/C catalysts, leading to improved current density and Faraday efficiency. The new method enabled CO2 electrocatalytic reduction at an industrial level, with a remarkable current density of over 400 mA cm−2.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·DateFeb 19, 2021

Nickel phosphide nanoparticle catalyst is the full package

Researchers at Osaka University have developed a stable and reusable nickel phosphide nanoparticle catalyst that exhibits high activity and selectivity in the hydrogenation of glucose to sorbitol. The catalyst produces D-sorbitol with yields over 99%, making it suitable for sustainable, low-cost production in various industries.

SourceOsaka University·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateFeb 4, 2021

Electric car of the future to be developed in Denmark

Researchers at Aarhus University are developing a new type of battery that can be recharged in just six minutes and has a range of 350 kilometres. The goal is for the battery to have a lifespan of at least 20 years and be virtually maintenance-free.

SourceAarhus University·DateJan 29, 2021
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.

Unexpected emissions of hydrochlorofluorocarbons

Researchers have found that three ozone-depleting hydrochlorofluorocarbons are being emitted globally, including one recently discovered. The majority of these emissions originate from Asia and southeastern France, suggesting a link to the fluorocarbon industry.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 25, 2021

Expanding the biosynthetic pathway via retrobiosynthesis

Researchers at KAIST develop novel biosynthetic pathways for short-chain primary amines through retrobiosynthesis, expanding the strategy for bio-based production of chemicals. The team successfully produced multiple short-chain primary amines using Escherichia coli strains and renewable resources.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 13, 2021

How market incumbents can navigate disruptive technology change

Industry incumbents face difficult choices during technological disruption, such as cannibalizing successful offerings or investing in both. The study's generalized model can capture variations in adopter segments, including leapfroggers, switchers, opportunists, and dual users, to estimate cannibalization and coexistence.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJan 6, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

A no-meat diet everywhere will not solve the climate crisis

While a no-meat diet is recommended for industrialized regions, scientists argue that it's not a universal solution for low- and middle-income countries. Livestock are crucial to incomes and diets in these regions.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateDec 16, 2020

Extracting precious zinc from waste ash

Scientists at Chalmers University of Technology have created a unique method to extract valuable metals like zinc from fly ash produced by incinerating solid waste. This innovative approach can help reduce environmental pollution and increase the profitability of waste incineration, while also promoting a more circular economy.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalWaste Management·DateDec 16, 2020

A new strategy for the greener use of calcium carbide

Researchers propose a new approach to produce calcium acetylide, a key industrial compound, using renewable carbon sources and reducing its environmental impact. The study simulates the interaction of calcium acetylide with water and dimethyl sulfoxide on an atomic scale, revealing potential for greener synthesis methods.

SourceSt. Petersburg State University·JournalChemical Science·DateNov 25, 2020

Researchers discover a new way to produce hydrogen using microwaves

A team of researchers has discovered a new way to produce hydrogen using microwaves, with great potential for the automotive sector, chemical industry, and process industry. The technology enables the transformation of renewable electricity into hydrogen or chemical products without cables or contact with electrodes.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalNature Energy·DateNov 11, 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.

Model for acid-tolerant yeast helps guide industrial organic acid production

A team of researchers has developed a model for acid-tolerant yeast that can produce succinic acid, a precursor for industrial polymer production. The model uses gene editing and computational tools to identify the optimal genetic modifications required to maximize succinic acid production.

SourcePenn State·JournalMetabolic Engineering Communications·DateNov 4, 2020
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.

Smart solution to detect seafood spoilage

A new device uses biogenic amines to detect seafood spoilage, offering a quick and simple method for testing amine vapors from fish. The technology has the potential to revolutionize food safety by enabling real-time monitoring of spoilage levels in seafood.

SourceFlinders University·JournalFood Chemistry·DateOct 28, 2020

Scientists to improve food plant worker safety, product supply

A Cornell University-led project aims to reduce COVID-19 cases and transmission among food processing facility workers while maintaining production capacity. The researchers will collaborate with industry partners to explore optimal strategies using computer modeling and outreach.

SourceCornell University·DateOct 26, 2020

Nursery automation focus of new effort led by UTIA

A new effort led by UTIA aims to help nursery growers adopt automation technologies, addressing the industry's labor shortage. The LEAP Team will identify labor constraints and opportunities, as well as prioritize automated technologies for nursery production systems.

SourceUniversity of Tennessee Institute of Agriculture·DateOct 22, 2020

Golden meat: Engineering cow cells to produce beta carotene

Scientists at Tufts University genetically engineered cow muscle cells to produce beta carotene, a provitamin that may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. The study demonstrates the potential of cell-cultured meat products to surpass the nutritional profile of conventionally produced meat.

SourceNew Harvest·JournalMetabolic Engineering·DateOct 15, 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.

Ultrafast fiber laser produces record high power

The research team developed a new ultrafast fiber laser that produces an average power of over 10 kW without significant degradation in beam quality. This technology paves the way for industrial-scale materials processing and visionary applications such as space debris removal.

SourceOptica·DateOct 12, 2020

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

New method adds and subtracts for sustainability's true measure

A new framework examines human-nature interactions across space and time to reveal successes and setbacks in achieving sustainable development goals. The analysis found 33 synergies and 14 trade-offs among 10 SDGs, highlighting the need for a holistic approach to sustainability.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalSustainability·DateSep 17, 2020
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 discover effective pathway to convert CO2 into ethylene

A research team has developed nanoscale copper wires with specially shaped surfaces to catalyze the conversion of carbon dioxide into ethylene, producing a conversion rate of over 70%. The new system is more efficient than previous designs and can run for extended periods without losing efficiency.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Catalysis·DateSep 16, 2020

Reducing nitrogen with boron and beer

Researchers from the University of Würzburg have developed a method to convert nitrogen to ammonium at room temperature without using transition metals. The key to this process is the use of boron and water, which enables sequential reactions that bring the team close to producing ammonia.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Chemistry·DateSep 14, 2020

Accelerated drying of electrodes -- cheaper production of batteries

The EPIC project aims to accelerate electrode drying for lithium-ion batteries by increasing energy efficiency and reducing costs. Innovative drying management techniques are being developed and tested to improve the environmental performance and position Germany as a leading location for battery production.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·DateSep 7, 2020

Making more of methane

Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST) have developed a new method to directly convert methane into commercial products, bypassing multiple energy-intensive stages. The breakthrough uses a molybdenum-zeolite catalyst and identifies two potential activation pathways for carbon-hydrogen bonding.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 2, 2020
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.

Insect-based animal feed could help UK reach net zero

A new project aims to explore insect-based feeds for poultry and aquaculture industries, which could help the UK meet its net-zero emissions target. The team will work on efficient insect production methods to lower costs and environmental impact.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·DateSep 1, 2020

Geothermal brines could propel California's green economy

Scientists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory are working to develop technology for efficient lithium extraction from geothermal brine in California. The projects aim to unlock the state's potential as a major supplier of lithium, essential for battery production and global demand is expected to skyrocket.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateAug 5, 2020

Modeling plastic packaging flows in Japan

A study suggests that achieving Japan's plastic recycling targets will depend on collecting packaging waste from the food industry and households. The analysis reveals that it is possible to meet recycling targets if all feasible measures are implemented, but legislative action is hindered.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 3, 2020
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.

Two for the price of one

Researchers from Kyoto University have developed a new method to synthesize dicarboxylic acids and generate hydrogen as a byproduct. Using renewable diols and an iridium catalyst, the process achieves greater efficiency and yield, offering a safer alternative for industrial organic chemistry.

SourceKyoto University·JournalChemSusChem·DateJul 30, 2020

Well-off countries need trade to cut environmental woes

A new study in Nature Sustainability shows that international trade improved the sustainable development goals of 70% of developed countries but reduced them by over 60% for developing countries. The research found that trading with distant countries had more environmental benefits, as close neighbors often share similar constraints.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJul 13, 2020

USDA grant to support Cornell indoor ag training programs

The $496,000 USDA grant will help design new CEA training programs at Cornell University to address the industry's growing need for a skilled workforce. Participants will gain expertise in CEA infrastructure and advanced knowledge in environmental monitoring and marketing skills.

SourceCornell University·DateJul 10, 2020

Aquaculture's role in nutrition in the COVID-19 era

The article discusses four possible scenarios for the future of aquaculture, including a growth-first nationalistic approach, sustainable localized production, and a globally competitive market. These scenarios aim to maximize aquaculture's nutrition benefits while ensuring environmental sustainability.

SourceAmerican University·JournalReviews in Fisheries Science & Aquaculture·DateJul 9, 2020
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.

Milking algae mechanically: Progress to succeed petroleum derived chemicals

A Shinshu University research team has successfully cultivated microalgae using a novel mechanical milking system, overcoming three major cultivation challenges. This non-destructive method enables the efficient production of valuable compounds like polysaccharides and phycobiliproteins without solvent extraction.

SourceShinshu University·JournalAlgal Research·DateJul 8, 2020

Growing polymers with different lengths

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a method to control the dispersity of polymer materials, allowing for the production of polymers with specific properties. This is achieved by using two catalysts with different effects, enabling chemists to adjust the dispersity precisely and produce uniform or highly dispersed polymers.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalChem·DateJun 24, 2020

Not so robust: robusta coffee more sensitive to warming than previously thought

A new study suggests robusta coffee production decreases by 14% with each 1C increase above a lower-than-once-thought optimal temperature range. The findings contrast with previous estimates and highlight the need for climate adaptation strategies in the coffee industry.

SourceThe Alliance of Bioversity International and the International Center for Tropical Agriculture·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJun 21, 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.

Development of heat-tolerant annual ryegrass germplasm

Researchers at Mississippi State University have successfully bred heat-tolerant annual ryegrass using recurrent phenotypic selection. The new germplasm can germinate and survive under high temperature stress conditions, allowing for late summer or early fall planting in the Southeast, increasing grazing days in winter and spring.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateMay 21, 2020

Ozone-depleting chemical alternatives getting into our food and water

Researchers found that ozone-depleting chemical alternatives have increased dramatically in the Arctic since 1990, contaminating freshwater sources and affecting wildlife. The substances, known as scPFCAs, can travel long distances and accumulate in human blood and food crops.

SourceYork University·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 14, 2020

Towards antibodies against COVID-19

Researchers have isolated and characterized an antibody that can bind to SARS-CoV-2 and neutralize the virus, providing a potential antiviral drug candidate. The antibody targets a conserved epitope on the spike protein of the virus.

SourceVIB (the Flanders Institute for Biotechnology)·JournalCell·DateMay 6, 2020

Researchers present a microbial strain capable of massive succinic acid production

A research team has developed a microbial strain capable of producing succinic acid with the highest production efficiency to date. The strain, isolated from a Korean cow's rumen, was engineered through systems metabolic engineering and enzyme engineering to produce 134 g per liter of succinic acid.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 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.

Water replaces toxins: Green production of plastics

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have developed a new synthesis method that uses only hot water to produce important polymers like polybenzimidazoles and pyrron polymers. The process avoids the use of toxic substances, making it an environmentally friendly alternative.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateApr 21, 2020

New textile could keep you cool in the heat, warm in the cold

Researchers develop strong, comfortable fabric that adapts to changing weather conditions by absorbing and releasing thermal energy. The fabric, made from silk and chitosan with phase-changing polymer PEG, can be worn indoors or outdoors, reducing the need for air conditioning or heat.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 15, 2020

How the chemical industry can meet the climate goals

The chemical industry can achieve net-zero CO2 emissions by using carbon capture and storage (CCS) or carbon capture and utilization (CCU), which require more energy. Biomass-based production is another option, but with intensive land use requirements.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateApr 6, 2020
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.

Three million euros in funding for new nano water filters

Researchers at Bielefeld University are developing ultra-thin carbon nanomembranes that can filter out impurities from water, producing ultrapure water and beverage concentrates. The technology aims to reduce energy consumption and preserve flavors in food production and pharmaceutical applications.

SourceBielefeld University·DateMar 12, 2020

Novel photocatalytic method converts biopolyols and sugars into methanol and syngas

Researchers developed a photocatalytic method to convert biomass-derived polyols and sugars into methanol and syngas, promoting a clean and renewable alternative to fossil fuels. The process uses UV light irradiation at room temperature and produces a mixture of CO, H2, and other gases, with CO selectivity up to 90%.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 27, 2020

MOF co-catalyst allows selectivity of branched aldehydes of up to 90%

Researchers developed a new MOF co-catalyst that selectively produces branched aldehydes, which are difficult to achieve with existing catalysts. The study demonstrates the potential of MOFs to enhance selectivity in various catalytic reactions.

SourceNational Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) MARVEL·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 26, 2020
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

The combination of plant-based particles and water forms an 'eco' super-glue

Researchers at Aalto University have developed an eco-friendly adhesive using plant-derived cellulose nanocrystals and water, demonstrating exceptional strength and performance. The new glue outperforms commercial products in terms of sustainability and cost-effectiveness, making it a promising solution for various industries.

SourceAalto University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateFeb 24, 2020

Having an eye for colors: Printable light sensors

The KIT team developed printable organic photodiodes that can detect varying wavelengths, enabling color selection and filterless multichannel visible light communication. These sensors are suitable for mobile devices and have the potential to be used in various applications, including the internet of things and Industry 4.0.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateFeb 24, 2020

CCNY chemists develop safer hydrogenation processes

Researchers at City College of New York developed a hydrogenation process that bypasses external hydrogen gas sources, reducing safety risks and costs. The new method has potential applications in undergraduate chemistry labs and medicinal fields.

SourceCity College of New York·JournalAdvanced Synthesis & Catalysis·DateFeb 10, 2020
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.

Artificial evolution of an industry

Researchers found that firms like Fabindia use a specific approach to shape industry futures, transforming key aspects of the landscape. The team mapped Fabindia's evolution over 50 years and identified three major instances where the company successfully transformed its industry.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalOrganization Science·DateFeb 6, 2020

Finding the source of chemical reactions

Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory have experimentally detected the transition state in chemical reactions, a hidden aspect that controls product formation. This breakthrough could improve industrial processes and lead to the synthesis of new life-saving drugs.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 3, 2020
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.

Accelerating chemical reactions without direct contact with a catalyst

Researchers developed a Noncontact Catalysis System (NCCS) to accelerate chemical reactions using gold nanoclusters as intermediaries, enabling independent reactions of normally incompatible substances. This breakthrough could lead to more versatile, efficient, and cost-effective industrial chemical production processes.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 31, 2020

Researchers combine X-rays and laser light to image sprays

A new laser-based method combines X-rays and laser-induced fluorescence to observe and quantify atomizing spray phenomena, providing details on the sprayed liquid's form and distribution. The technique can detect smaller amounts of liquid than previously detected with x-rays and has the potential to study sprays in real-time.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateJan 30, 2020

Life Cycle Assessment pinpoints 'sustainability hotspots' in bio-chemical production

Researchers used Life Cycle Assessment to identify environmental hotspots in the production of lactic acid, a key bioplastic. The study found that heavy solvent usage and black energy consumption can negatively impact sustainability. Additionally, the development phase is crucial for identifying and addressing these hotspots.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJan 14, 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.