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Dormant capacity reserve in lithium-ion batteries detected

Researchers at TU Graz have observed where lithium ions are stored and released from battery material during charging and discharging cycles. They found that even fully charged batteries retain lithium ions in the crystal lattice of the cathode, leading to a capacity loss. This knowledge can help increase battery capacity further.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeImaging analysis·DateAug 21, 2024

Rice lab finds faster, cleaner way to extract lithium from battery waste

A new process by Rice University researchers recovers up to 50% of lithium in spent LIB cathodes in just 30 seconds, overcoming a significant bottleneck in LIB recycling technology. The microwave-based method uses a readily biodegradable solvent and achieves efficiencies similar to conventional heating methods but much faster.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 29, 2024

Rice researchers develop innovative battery recycling method

A research team at Rice University has pioneered a new method to extract purified active materials from battery waste, enabling efficient separation and recycling of valuable battery materials. The technique uses solvent-free flash Joule heating to create unique features with magnetic shells and stable core structures.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 24, 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.

Recycled micro-sized silicon anodes from photovoltaic waste improve lithium-ion battery performance

Researchers have developed low-cost micro-sized silicon anodes from recycled photovoltaic waste using a novel electrolyte design. The new anodes exhibit remarkable electrochemical stability, maintaining an average coulombic efficiency of 99.94% after 200 cycles. This breakthrough addresses the major challenges facing micro-sized silico...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 16, 2024
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.

Innovative battery design: More energy and less environmental impact

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new method to reduce fluorine in lithium metal batteries, increasing their stability and efficiency. The new design requires only 0.1% by weight of fluorine, reducing the environmental footprint of these high-energy batteries.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJul 5, 2024

Whoever controls electrolytes will pave the way for electric vehicles

Researchers at Pohang University of Science and Technology have developed a gel electrolyte-based battery that significantly reduces gas generation during charging and discharging processes. The new technology maintains its capacity even after 200 cycles, demonstrating enhanced safety and durability.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalSmall·DateJun 23, 2024

An active equalization strategy for series-connected lithium-ion battery packs based on a dual threshold trigger mechanism

Researchers proposed an active equalization strategy to minimize cell inconsistencies in series-connected lithium-ion battery packs. The strategy utilizes a dual threshold trigger mechanism and energy transfer path optimization, significantly reducing cell inconsistencies and enhancing pack performance.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalGreen Energy and Intelligent Transportation·DateJun 20, 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.

Research to enable cheaper and safer battery storage

Researchers developed a unique electrochemical ultrasonic force microscopy (EC-UFM) technique to observe sodium-ion battery interfaces during operation. The new method guides passivating layer formation, preserving charge carrier transport and enhancing battery performance.

SourceLancaster University·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

MXenes for energy storage:

Researchers have developed a new method in spectromicroscopy to investigate chemical species adsorbed on MXene surfaces and intercalated within the material. This technique, Scanning X-ray microscopy (SXM), enables high chemical sensitivity and has provided detailed insights into the chemical composition and structure of MXenes.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2024

Research details method to get efficient, environmentally friendly lithium

A new method for extracting lithium from more dilute sources has been developed by researchers at the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering. The approach uses iron phosphate particles to selectively isolate lithium over sodium, resulting in a more efficient and environmentally friendly process.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 7, 2024

Iron could be key to less expensive, greener lithium-ion batteries, research finds

Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a new cathode material for lithium-ion batteries using iron, which could lead to lower costs and increased sustainability. The iron-based cathode offers higher energy density than current materials and uses iron as the cheapest metal commodity.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2024
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Eco-friendly and affordable battery for low-income countries

Researchers at Linköping University have developed a battery based on zinc and lignin that can be used over 8000 times, retaining its charge for approximately one week. The battery is stable and easily recyclable, making it a promising alternative to lithium-ion batteries.

SourceLinköping University·JournalEnergy & Environmental Materials·DateMay 14, 2024

Cost-effective, high-capacity, and cyclable lithium-ion battery cathodes

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a cost-effective and high-capacity cathode material for lithium-ion batteries by doping abundantly available elements, such as aluminum and silicon. The addition of these elements forms strong covalent bonds, enhancing the material's cyclability and capacity retention.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalACS Materials Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 1, 2024

More economical and sustainable rechargeable batteries

Researchers have created a more economical and sustainable rechargeable battery using an ultralow-concentration electrolyte. The new electrolyte, based on lithium difluoro(oxalato)borate and ethyl carbonate/dimethyl carbonate, has a record-breaking low salt content while maintaining high ionic conductivity.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 22, 2024

KAIST develops sodium battery capable of rapid charging in just a few seconds​

Researchers at KAIST have developed a hybrid sodium-ion battery with high energy and power density, enabling rapid charging in under a few seconds. The new battery technology has the potential to revolutionize energy storage for electric vehicles and other applications.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

Discovery brings all-solid-state sodium batteries closer to practical use

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University developed a process to create solid sulfide electrolytes with world-high sodium ion conductivity and glass electrolytes with high reduction resistance. This breakthrough enhances the practical use of all-solid-state sodium batteries.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 11, 2024

BESSY II: How pulsed charging enhances the service time of batteries

A recent study found that pulsed charging improves lithium-ion battery stability and lifespan. The study, led by Philipp Adelhelm, demonstrated that high-frequency pulsed current reduces ageing effects and structural changes in the electrode materials, leading to a doubled cycle life with 80% capacity retention.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Physics-based predictive tool will speed up battery and superconductor research

Researchers from the University of Tokyo have developed a physics-based predictive tool that quickly identifies stable intercalated materials for advanced electronics and energy storage devices. By analyzing over 9,000 compounds, the tool uses straightforward principles from undergraduate chemistry to predict host-guest stability.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalACS Physical Chemistry Au·DateApr 1, 2024

Improving the safety of HED LIBs by co-coating separators with ceramics and solid-state electrolytes

Researchers propose a novel separator design co-coated with boehmite ceramics and LATP solid-state electrolytes to improve the safety of HED LIBs. The study demonstrates that this design can prevent thermal deformation and mitigate detrimental effects on electrochemical performance, resulting in improved battery performance and reliabi...

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 27, 2024

More than flying cars

eVTOL batteries require varying amounts of power for flight stages such as climbing, hovering and descent. Researchers developed new energy-dense materials and tested them against the current state-of-the-art version, showing improved performance.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 12, 2024

Unlocking the potential of lithium-ion batteries with advanced binders

Scientists have developed a functional binder for silicon oxide electrodes used in lithium-ion batteries, enhancing electrochemical performance and durability. The new binder outperforms conventional options, offering improved alternatives for electric vehicles.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateMar 1, 2024
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.

Imaging grain boundaries that impede lithium-ion migration in solid-state batteries

A research team at NIMS has created a new method for measuring the movement of lithium ions along grain boundaries within solid electrolytes, identifying obstacles and their impact on battery performance. This technique may contribute to the development of higher-performance solid-state batteries.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2024

Novel germanium-carbon anode for high-capacity lithium-ion batteries

A team of researchers from Japan developed a novel nanostructured germanium-carbon multilayered anode that significantly increases the capacity of lithium-ion batteries. The anode demonstrated high discharge capacity and retained its performance after multiple charging cycles.

SourceMeijo University·JournalApplied Physics Express·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 2024
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.

Non-solvating electrolytes enhance performance of organic electrode-based batteries

Researchers at UNIST have introduced non-solvating electrolytes to significantly improve the performance and lifespan of organic electrode-based batteries. The study achieved remarkable improvements in capacity retention and rate performance, with over 91% capacity retention after 1000 cycles.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateFeb 22, 2024

Cobalt-free electrodes achieved with nickel ions

Scientists at Yokohama National University have created a new type of lithium-ion battery using nickel ions, which can be used in electric vehicles without the need for cobalt. The material overcomes key stability issues by suppressing nickel-ion migration and achieving consistent reversibility.

SourceYokohama National University·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·DateFeb 20, 2024

Road to better performing batteries using less critical raw materials

The researchers have developed a Na-ion battery containing organic materials that can charge quickly, store a large amount of energy, and last longer. They also improved the cathode material using design principles from previous studies, resulting in high-energy density and fast charging capabilities.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 20, 2024
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.

New strategies restructuring lithium-ion batteries

Researchers explore novel electrode design approaches to improve battery performance, enabling higher energy densities, faster charging times and greater longevity. The study emphasizes the importance of scalable production methods to transition these advancements from lab to market.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournaleScience·DateFeb 2, 2024

Researchers overview recent progress and challenges in silicon-based anode materials for lithium-ion batteries

Researchers have made significant advancements in silicon-based anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, including the development of binders, composites, and electrolytes. However, Si-based anodes still face challenges such as volume expansion, lower electrical conductivity, and inconsistent kinetics reaction.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 31, 2024

Powering the future: Unlocking the role of hydrogen in lithium-ion batteries

Researchers investigate how LiCoO2 materials store and release hydrogen at room temperature, revealing insights into the degradation process. The study paves the way for more efficient batteries and low-energy production of hydrogen through water splitting.

SourceMeijo University·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 26, 2024

Major climate benefits with electric aircraft

Researchers found that small electric aircraft can have a notably lower climate impact – up to 60 percent less – and other types of environmental impacts than equivalent fossil-fuelled aircraft. The study also highlights the need for longer battery lifetimes and improved energy storage capacity to minimize mineral resource scarcity.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalThe International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 23, 2024

Hidden cause of lithium-rich cathode materials’ low energy efficiency revealed

A research team found that voltage hysteresis in Li2RuO3 is attributed to different intermediate crystalline phases formed during charge and discharge processes, not irreversible structure changes. This discovery challenges conventional theory and has implications for developing high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2024
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.

Solid state battery design charges in minutes, lasts for thousands of cycles

Researchers have developed a new solid state battery design that can be charged and discharged over 6,000 times, with the ability to recharge in just 10 minutes. The breakthrough uses micron-sized silicon particles to constrict the lithiation reaction and facilitate homogeneous plating of lithium metal.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 8, 2024
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.

Study on battery recycling shows China is in 1st place

A study by researchers from the University of Münster found that China will be able to meet its demand for primary lithium for electric vehicles through recycling as early as 2059, while Europe and the US will not achieve this until after 2070. Recycling is also expected to ensure China's need for cobalt by 2045 and nickel by 2046.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalResources Conservation and Recycling·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 8, 2023

Template for success: Shaping hard carbon electrodes for next-generation batteries

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science developed nanostructured hard carbon electrodes using inorganic zinc-based compounds, which deliver unprecedented performance and significantly increase the capacity of sodium- and potassium-ion batteries. The new electrodes improve energy density by 1.6 times compared to existing technologies.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 13, 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.

Making electric vehicles last

A new polymer binder is introduced to address durability issues in dual-ion batteries. The binder features azide and acrylate groups, which enhance the structural integrity of graphite during charge and discharge cycles. Dual-ion batteries equipped with this binder demonstrate exceptional performance, even after 3,500 recharge cycles.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 1, 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.

Cathode active materials for lithium-ion batteries could be produced at low temperatures

A team of researchers at Hokkaido University has developed a new method to synthesize layered lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) at low temperatures, reducing synthesis time from hours to minutes. The hydroflux process produces crystalline LiCoO2 with properties only marginally inferior to commercially available materials.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalInorganic Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2023

A step on the way to solid-state batteries

Researchers developed a sinter-free method for efficient, low-temperature synthesis of lithium ceramic, enabling the creation of solid-state batteries with higher power density and lower production costs. This breakthrough could accelerate the transition to electric vehicles by reducing the reliance on conventional lithium-ion batteries.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2023

Cobalt-free battery for cleaner, greener power

Researchers from the University of Tokyo have developed a cobalt-free battery alternative that outperforms state-of-the-art battery chemistry. The new lithium-ion batteries boast a 60% higher energy density and can withstand over 1,000 recharge cycles, reducing environmental concerns.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2023

Researchers unveil fire-inhibiting nonflammable gel polymer electrolyte for lithium-ion batteries

Researchers have created a fire-inhibiting, nonflammable gel polymer electrolyte for lithium-ion batteries, increasing ion conductivity by 33% and improving life characteristics by 110%. The electrolyte prevents radical chain reactions during combustion, effectively inhibiting battery fires.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateOct 18, 2023

New recipe for efficient, environmentally friendly battery recycling

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new method for recycling metals from spent electric car batteries using oxalic acid. The method allows for the recovery of 100% of aluminum and 98% of lithium, minimizing waste and utilizing an environmentally friendly ingredient.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalSeparation and Purification Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 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.

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

Bio-inspired battery design

A team of Chinese researchers has developed a bio-inspired approach to improve the performance of flexible sodium-ion batteries. By methylating the structural polymer in the hydrogel electrolyte, they significantly increase the salt stability, leading to better battery capacity and cycling performance. The modified hydrogel can absorb ...

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2023

Researcher aims to accelerate EV charging times with CAREER award

A University of Texas at Dallas researcher aims to accelerate electric vehicle charging times by modifying lithium-ion battery structure to reduce charging time from hours to minutes. The goal is to increase adoption of electric vehicles and reduce carbon dioxide emissions and greenhouse gases.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·DateSep 29, 2023

Unlocking the potential of silicon anode materials for commercialized batteries

Researchers propose analysis protocol to evaluate feasibility of silicon-containing batteries with reduced particle size and uniform dispersion. The study finds promising results from innovative synthesis technology and initial efficiencies exceeding 90% with improved lifespan characteristics.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Energy·DateSep 28, 2023
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.

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