A team of researchers has created an optical fiber sensor that can detect thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries, providing early warning and improving safety. The sensor measures internal temperature and pressure during the thermal runaway process, enabling battery safety assessment and warning.
SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 26, 2023
A Japanese research team used advanced analytical techniques to study the electrochemical phenomena in aqueous potassium-ion batteries. They found that solid-electrolyte interphases form a passivating layer, suppressing hydrogen evolution and improving stability.
SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 19, 2023
Researchers at MIT and partners have discovered that variations in lithium ion flow rates are correlated with differences in carbon coating thickness, which could lead to improved battery efficiency. This technique allows for the extraction of insights from nanoscale data, offering potential applications beyond battery technology.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateSep 13, 2023
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Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.
A new method of analyzing nanoscale X-ray movies reveals unprecedented insights into how lithium-ion batteries store and release charge. The study suggests ways to improve the efficiency of billions of nanoparticles in electrode materials, potentially leading to faster-charging batteries.
SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 13, 2023
Researchers at Meijo University have created silicon-based anodes for high-capacity lithium-ion batteries using a single-step plasma sputtering process. The new method produces Si/Sn nanowire anodes with higher capacity than traditional graphite anodes, demonstrating stable performance and potential for advancing battery technology.
SourceMeijo University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2023
Researchers have devised an efficient method of recovering high-purity silicon from expired solar panels, which can help meet the increasing global demand for electric vehicles. The new extraction method using phosphoric acid achieved a recovery rate of 98.9% and purity of 99.2%, comparable to existing methods.
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalSolar Energy Materials and Solar Cells·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2023
Scientists introduce a novel approach to recover lithium from used LIBs by using aprotic organic solutions to avoid hydrogen gas production and simplify the process. The new method is efficient, inexpensive, and reduces waste, making it an attractive option for sustainable recycling of lithium-ion batteries.
SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 5, 2023
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Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.
A new study led by Dr. Xuekun Lu has found a way to prevent lithium plating in electric vehicle batteries, which could lead to faster charging times and improve the battery's energy density. The research also reveals that refining the microstructure of the graphite electrode can minimize the risk of lithium plating.
SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 24, 2023
Scientists at NTU Singapore have developed a flexible, human cornea-thin battery that can store electricity from saline solution. The battery could power smart contact lenses with displays and augmented reality capabilities.
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNano Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 24, 2023
A new study by Edith Cowan University has discovered zinc-air batteries as a superior alternative to lithium-ion, offering low costs, environmental benefits, and high theoretical energy density. The breakthrough redesigns the batteries using natural resources like zinc from Australia and air, enhancing their viability for sustainable e...
SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalEcoMat·TypeObservational study·DateAug 21, 2023
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
Researchers developed a free-standing LiPON film that promotes uniformly dense lithium metal electrochemical deposition under zero external pressure, opening the door to lithium metal solid-state batteries. The new approach yields fresh insights into LiPON's properties and interfaces.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 3, 2023
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 that metallic lithium forms a rhombic dodecahedron in the absence of corrosion, which could lead to safer lithium-metal batteries with increased performance. The researchers developed a new technique for depositing lithium faster than corrosion forms, allowing them to observe this unique shape.
SourceCalifornia NanoSystems Institute·JournalNature·DateAug 2, 2023
Researchers at University of Houston develop prototype of fully stretchable fabric-based lithium-ion battery, addressing safety concerns and enabling new applications for wearable technology. The innovation uses conductive silver fabric as a platform and current collector, providing stable performance and safer properties.
SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalExtreme Mechanics Letters·DateJul 26, 2023
Researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology have successfully synthesized high-purity SrVO2.4H0.6 and Sr3V2O62H0.8 perovskite oxyhydrides using a novel high-pressure flux method, opening up new possibilities for catalysts and lithium-ion battery electrodes.
SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 2023
Researchers discovered 'oxygen hole' formation in LiNiO2 cathodes accelerates degradation and release of oxygen. Computational studies revealed nickel charge remains stable while oxygen undergoes changes during charging.
SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 19, 2023
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.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed a new type of battery using aluminum foil that shows promising performance for safer, cheaper, and more powerful batteries. The batteries have higher energy density and greater stability than conventional lithium-ion batteries.
SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 19, 2023
Researchers from TIFRH demonstrate a lithium ion battery that can be charged using light, improving upon previous designs. The new battery uses a hybrid electrode assembly and solid electrolytes for safer and more efficient charging.
SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalSmall·DateJul 18, 2023
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
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.
Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a method to mix sodium with lithium in high-quality batteries, driving down costs and ensuring the supply. The technique uses a specialized technique to measure energetic stability, allowing for a more stable mixture of up to 20% sodium.
Researchers developed a new anode material that increases lithium-ion battery storage capacity by 1.5 times, allowing for fast charging in as little as six minutes. The innovation uses electron spin to enhance storage capacity and ferromagnetic properties.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJun 20, 2023
Researchers used X-ray computed tomography to visualize dendrite failure in unprecedented detail, revealing separate processes driving initiation and propagation of cracks. The findings point to overcoming technological challenges of lithium metal solid-state batteries, which could improve EV battery range, safety, and performance.
SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 7, 2023
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.
A team at Tohoku University has created a prototype calcium metal rechargeable battery that can handle 500 cycles of charging and discharging. The breakthrough employs a copper sulfide-based cathode and hydride-type electrolyte, demonstrating high stability and performance.
SourceTohoku University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMay 23, 2023
Researchers have developed a solvent-free process to manufacture lithium-ion battery electrodes that are greener and cheaper than traditional methods. The new process produces electrodes that can charge faster, with a capacity of 78% in just 20 minutes.
SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2023
Researchers suggest sharing smaller, lightweight EVs to manage resource use in EV batteries. They found that reducing material supply risks requires systemic approaches and investments in new battery technologies.
SourceNorwegian University of Science and Technology·JournalResources Conservation and Recycling·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 18, 2023
A new fluorine-containing electrolyte has been developed to perform well in sub-zero temperatures, addressing the issue of cold weather affecting electric vehicle battery effectiveness. The research demonstrates how to tailor the atomic structure of electrolytes for low-temperature applications.
SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateMay 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.
Researchers at Rice University developed a new priming method to optimize prelithiation in silicon anodes, improving battery life cycles by up to 44% and energy density. The method uses stabilized lithium metal particles with surfactants, enabling more stable SEI layer formation and reduced lithium depletion.
SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2023
Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a zinc-air battery with an open circuit voltage of over 2V, overcoming the major bottleneck for metal-air batteries. By arranging acidic/alkaline electrolytes in tandem, they were able to generate a higher voltage and improve output power density.
SourceTohoku University·JournalAPL Energy·DateMay 9, 2023
Researchers used ALD to create eco-friendly exhaust gas catalysts, lithium-ion battery coatings, and hydrogen fuel cells. The technology improves catalytic and energy material performance through precise control of film thickness and composition.
SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateMay 5, 2023
Researchers at Fudan University have developed braided current collectors that increase the energy density of fiber lithium-ion batteries. The new design improves ion transport within the electrode, increasing charge density and reducing obstruction to lithium ion transport.
SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 4, 2023
Researchers have developed a novel method for recycling valuable metals from spent lithium-ion batteries using spinning reactors. This technology simplifies the extraction-stripping process, allowing for rapid separation of metals in minutes with low concentrations of extractants.
SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 2, 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.
A team of researchers has uncovered nanoscale changes in solid-state batteries that could improve battery performance. They found that high-frequency vibrations at the interface make it harder for lithium ions to move, and discovered an intrinsic barrier to ion motion.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 27, 2023
Researchers from Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics developed a strategy to inhibit lithium dendrite growth on modified 3D carbon film. Uniform bottom-up Li deposition behavior was achieved, enabling stable lithium stripping/plating cycling up to 4000 hours.
SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateApr 26, 2023
Researchers from Chinese Academy of Sciences have doubled lithium storage capacity in hard carbon anodes by exploring lithiation boundary parameters. The study reveals the dual effect of lithium intercalation and reversible lithium film as key to high-reversible capacities.
The SWELL project focuses on recovering non-metallic components, including electrolytes, from spent lithium-ion batteries. This can lead to a significant increase in battery material sustainability.
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.
A new study reveals how ferroelectric coatings improve all-solid-state lithium batteries by reducing space charge layers and enhancing lithium transportation. The coatings made from guanidinium perchlorate increase battery capacities to near-liquid lithium-ion levels.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateApr 6, 2023
Researchers observed lithium ions wandering within composite cathodes, revealing limitations in ion delivery that affect battery performance. The findings suggest a previously overlooked development bottleneck for solid-state battery development, highlighting the need to enhance ion transport within cathode composites.
SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 2023
A new study proposes a simple coating solution to reduce degradation in solid-state lithium metal batteries. The coating, made of LiZr2(PO4)3 (LZP), improves capacity retention and decreases decay by mitigating uneven lithium-ion flux.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Bulletin·DateApr 4, 2023
Texas A&M researchers have found a significant increase in energy storage capacity of water-based battery electrodes, paving the way for safer and more stable batteries. The discovery could provide an alternative to lithium-ion batteries, which are facing material shortages and price increases.
SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 3, 2023
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.
The article explores knowledge gaps between laboratory and industrial manufacturing of batteries, highlighting the need for a shift in research priorities. Researchers propose new ways to design experiments that account for industry challenges, such as cost efficiency and impurity tolerance. The study aims to bridge the gap between fun...
SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 30, 2023
The oxygen-ion battery has an extremely long service life due to its ability to regenerate and store capacity that does not decrease over time. It also solves the problem of fire hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries.
SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023
A bilayer, nonwoven PET microfiber/polyvinylidene fluoride nanofiber membrane acts as a separator for LIB systems and prevents short circuits. The substrate significantly improves the mechanical and thermal properties of solid polymer electrolytes, enabling cells to operate over 2000 hours.
SourceShinshu University·JournalJournal of Power Sources·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023
Researchers have discovered halide electrolytes with relatively wide electrochemical stability windows and good compatibility with cathodes. These findings provide a new strategy for designing solid-state batteries using lithium halide solid electrolytes.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·DateMar 21, 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.
Numerical simulations reveal that spherical particles grow with dynamic oscillation during electrodeposition, influenced by applied electrical potential difference, electrolyte concentration, and diffusion coefficient. The oscillation state results from a competition between electrochemical reactions and ion transport.
SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2023
Lithium dendrites grow in solid-state batteries after charging and discharging cycles, leading to internal short circuits. Researchers have investigated the starting point of this process using microscopy methods, finding that grain boundaries play a crucial role.
SourceMax Planck Institute for Polymer Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 17, 2023
Researchers pioneered a technique to observe the 3D internal structure of rechargeable batteries, enabling direct observation of the solid electric interface (SEI) and its progression. The study reveals key predictors of SEI layer formation in a complex interplay of molecular dimensions, surface properties, and solvent interactions.
SourceLancaster University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023
Scientists have developed a conductive polymer coating called HOS-PFM that can significantly enhance the performance of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles. The coating ensures battery stability and high charge/discharge rates while extending battery life by up to 15 years.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateMar 7, 2023
A HKU Mechanical Engineering team has developed a new generation of lithium-ion batteries that are safer, more powerful and have a longer lifespan. The innovative design uses single-ion conducting polymer electrolytes that can conduct electricity faster than traditional liquid electrolytes.
SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 6, 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.
The Inflation Reduction Act's target for domestic EV battery mineral extraction is achievable for some plug-in hybrid vehicles but poses significant challenges for fully electric vehicles. A mass-based standard could reduce uncertainty and incentivize production of high-value minerals domestically.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 6, 2023
Scientists at Tokyo University of Science develop a novel technique to evaluate the electric double layer effect, achieving carrier modulation and improved switching response speed control. The EDL effect is reduced with certain electrolytes, leading to faster charging times.
SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalMaterials Today Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 6, 2023
A team of Japanese researchers has developed a novel approach to enhance the fast-charging ability of lithium-ion batteries using a binder material that promotes Li-ion intercalation of active material. This results in high conductivity, low impedance, and good stability, reducing the concentration polarization of Li+ ions.
SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalACS Materials Letters·DateMar 3, 2023
A Berkeley Lab-led team has designed a new type of solid electrolyte consisting of a mix of various metal elements, resulting in a more conductive and less dependent material. The new design could advance solid-state batteries with high energy density and superior safety, potentially overcoming long-standing challenges.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateFeb 23, 2023
Researchers analyze current state of solid-state battery technology, identifying key challenges such as developing solid electrolytes and anode materials. The study concludes that new approaches in material research are necessary to overcome these hurdles and achieve commercialization.
SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Energy·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 23, 2023
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 have developed a new lithium-air battery that uses a solid electrolyte, boosting energy density four times above lithium-ion batteries. The battery can potentially power cars for over a thousand miles on a single charge and is also suitable for domestic airplanes and long-haul trucks.
SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateFeb 22, 2023
The study found that the US uses mostly synthetic graphite, which is produced from fossil fuel industry by-products, while natural graphite is sourced from mines and imported. The researchers suggest increasing domestic production and recycling of graphite-containing products to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 22, 2023
Researchers have made progress toward fast-charging lithium-metal batteries by growing uniform lithium crystals on a lithiophobic nanocomposite surface. This approach enables charging in about an hour, competitive with today's lithium-ion batteries and overcoming a significant roadblock to widespread use.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 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.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have found a promising cathode material for magnesium rechargeable batteries, achieving better cyclability and high battery capacity. The Mg1.33V1.67O4 system with substituted vanadium and manganese shows superior charge-discharge properties.
SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of Electroanalytical Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2023
Researchers at North Carolina State University used a new laser technique to improve the performance of lithium-ion batteries. The technique creates tiny defects in graphite material, which can enhance battery performance, increase current capacity by up to 20%, and reduce the risk of fires. However, excessive defects can lead to probl...
SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalCarbon·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2023
A team of A*STAR scientists has successfully upcycled waste polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic into polymer electrolytes, key components for safer lithium-ion batteries. The study achieved room temperature conductivity comparable to existing commercial systems and showed promising performance in repeatedly charged and discharged ...
SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2023
Chemist Alexej Jerschow receives the first Carl Zeiss Humboldt Research Award for his exceptionally broad research approach in nuclear magnetic resonance. He will collaborate with the team of Dmitry Budker at Mainz University and access to EUR 50,000 for activities during his stay in Germany.
SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·DateFeb 7, 2023
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.