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Researchers now able to predict battery lifetimes with machine learning

Scientists have developed a machine learning algorithm that can accurately predict the lifetimes of different battery chemistries using as little as a single cycle of experimental data. The technique could reduce costs and accelerate the development of new battery materials, enabling researchers to quickly evaluate and test multiple ma...

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateMay 5, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Story tips: Supply chain crunch, safer batteries on impact and lithium light bright

A new report from Oak Ridge National Laboratory identifies supply chain must-haves for maintaining the pivotal role of hydropower in decarbonizing the nation's grid. The report also highlights advances in safer battery technologies and innovative electron microscopy techniques for imaging lithium in energy storage materials.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2022

A 4 V-class metal-free organic lithium-ion battery gets closer to reality

Researchers at Tohoku University and UCLA have made a breakthrough in high-voltage metal-free lithium-ion batteries using a small organic molecule, croconic acid. The battery has a strong working voltage of around 4V and a high theoretical capacity, potentially leading to more energy-dense and cost-effective batteries.

SourceTohoku University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateApr 12, 2022

Self-standing mesoporous Si film can power lithium-ion batteries

A self-standing mesoporous Si film anode has been developed for lithium-ion batteries, exhibiting excellent performance without the need for additives or binders. The film's pore characteristics show a strong correlation with electrode performance.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateMar 31, 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.

Using quantum methods to predict next-gen lithium-metal battery reactivity

Dr. Perla Balbuena's study uses quantum chemical methods to track specific reactions on Li-metal battery surfaces, revealing insights into polymer formation and surface chemistry. The research aims to optimize Li-metal batteries' performance and lifespan by controlling reactivity.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeNews article·DateMar 22, 2022

The opto-ionic effect: Light may increase performance of fuel cells and lithium-ion batteries

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
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.

Building a new mechanical property evaluation method for atmospherically unstable sulfide solid electrolyte

Researchers developed an indentation test to evaluate mechanical properties of sulfide solid electrolytes, crucial for all-solid-state lithium-ion secondary batteries. The method enabled accurate assessment in inert atmosphere, confirming superior mechanical properties of sulfide-type solid electrolytes.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 15, 2022

Safer, more powerful batteries for electric cars, power grid

Solid-state batteries with little liquid electrolyte are safer than lithium-ion batteries in many cases. However, they also have limitations, such as slow lithium ion movement from the solid electrolyte to electrodes.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalJoule·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 7, 2022

Improving the safety of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles

Researchers at Universitat Politècnica de València are working on improving the safety of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles. They aim to reduce thermal instability and prevent fires, with potential benefits for the automotive sector and beyond.

SourceUniversitat Politècnica de València·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMar 4, 2022

Clues to better batteries emerge from tracking lithium

Researchers used x-rays to track lithium deposition and removal from a battery anode during cycling, identifying irregularities that lead to reduced capacity and lifespan. Incomplete lithium stripping causes dead spots on the anode, reducing cell capacity and electron flow.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalJournal of The Electrochemical Society·DateFeb 28, 2022
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.

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.

Scientists discover new electrolyte for solid-state lithium-ion batteries

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.

A new electrolyte for greener and safer batteries

A new material, sodium carbo-hydridoborate, improves the performance of solid-state sodium batteries, making them more sustainable and durable. The ideal pressure to be applied to the battery for efficient operation has also been defined.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·TypeNews article·DateFeb 10, 2022

Pusan National University scientists enhance durability of lithium-sulfur batteries with dyes

Researchers developed a novel coating material based on methylene blue dye to mitigate the polysulfide shuttling effect in lithium-sulfur batteries, improving their durability and electrochemical performance. This breakthrough could lead to the widespread adoption of sustainable energy storage systems.

SourcePusan National University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

Recycling already considered in the development of new battery materials

Researchers explore circular economy approaches to improve battery recycling efficiency and purities of raw materials. A promising approach is 'Design for Recycling', which aims to standardize screw connections and design materials for automated disassembly and reduced solvent use.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateJan 12, 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.

Rubber material holds key to long-lasting, safer EV batteries

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have discovered a promising alternative to conventional lithium-ion batteries made from a common material: rubber. The material, when formulated into a 3D structure, acts as a superhighway for fast lithium-ion transport with superior mechanical toughness.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2022

Molecular paddlewheels propel sodium ions through next-generation batteries

Researchers at Duke University have discovered paddlewheel-like molecular dynamics that help push sodium ions through a quickly evolving class of solid-state batteries. The insights will guide researchers in their pursuit of a new generation of sodium-ion batteries to replace lithium-ion technology.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2022
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.

Revitalizing batteries by bringing ‘dead’ lithium back to life

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

Engineering next generation solar powered batteries

Researchers have developed a compact solar-powered battery that can be directly recharged with solar energy, reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The battery uses a heterostructure electrode made from molybdenum disulphide and oxide, which enhances surface area for efficient absorption of solar energy.

SourceTata Institute of Fundamental Research·JournalSmall·DateDec 23, 2021

MIT engineers produce the world’s longest flexible fiber battery

Researchers have created a rechargeable lithium-ion battery in an ultra-long fiber that can be woven into fabrics, enabling self-contained wearable electronic devices. The 140-meter long fiber battery demonstrates the potential for practical applications in various fields, including communications, sensing, and computational devices.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMaterials Today·DateDec 20, 2021

Fast and durable batteries to come: A promising anode material for lithium-ion batteries

Researchers at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have developed a promising anode material for lithium-ion batteries that can enable extremely fast charging. The material, made from a bio-based polymer, showed enhanced lithium-ion kinetics and durability, retaining up to 90% of its capacity after 3,000 charge-discharge...

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalChemical Communications·DateDec 20, 2021

Selective separation could help alleviate critical metals shortage

Researchers at MIT developed a selective separation process using sulfidation to target rare metals like cobalt in lithium-ion batteries. The approach reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional liquid-based separation methods.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateDec 17, 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.

Sodium-based material yields stable alternative to lithium-ion batteries

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

Sizing up the challenges in extracting lithium from geothermal brine

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

The reasons behind lithium-ion batteries’ rapid cost decline

A new study found that research and development on chemistry and materials science were key factors behind the significant cost decline of lithium-ion batteries. The analysis revealed that over 50% of the cost reduction came from R&D activities, with chemistry and materials research being the primary contributors.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateNov 22, 2021
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

New scalable method resolves materials joining in solid-state batteries

Scientists at ORNL developed a scalable, low-cost method to improve materials joining in solid-state batteries, resolving one of the big challenges in commercial development. The electrochemical pulse method increases contact at the interface without detrimental effects, enabling an all-solid-state architecture.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

Researchers determine optimum pressure to improve the performance of lithium metal batteries

The study found that a stack pressure of 350 kilo Pascal increases lithium particle deposition in neat columns, improving stability and reducing the risk of short circuits. Additionally, partial discharge during cycling can also boost performance without affecting the solid electrolyte interphase structure.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 18, 2021

Silicon anodes muscle in on battery technology

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

Chemists provide a new look at the problem of energy efficiency in lithium-ion batteries

A new study refutes a long-standing explanation for low energy efficiency in lithium-ion batteries, suggesting that voltage hysteresis is caused by reversible electron transfer between oxygen and transition metal atoms. This phenomenon could be mitigated through manipulation of electron transfer barriers.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNature Chemistry·DateSep 16, 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.

New way to pull lithium from water could increase supply, efficiency

A new research method developed by an interdisciplinary team of engineers and scientists has the potential to significantly increase lithium supply and reduce costs for devices that rely on it. The technique involves extracting lithium from contaminated water using precise membranes, which can improve efficiency and simplify the extrac...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 8, 2021

Janus graphene opens doors to sustainable sodium-ion batteries

The study reveals that the capacity of sodium ions can match today's lithium-ion batteries, offering a cost-efficient and abundant alternative for energy storage. The unique structure of Janus graphene enables high-capacity energy storage, with specific capacities approaching those of lithium in graphite.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2021
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.

Heavily enriched: An energy-efficient way of enriching hydrogen isotopes in silicon

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

Speed and absorption key to optimizing new type of rechargeable battery

Researchers at OIST developed a hybrid material to improve lithium sulfur battery performance, reducing polysulfide dissolution and increasing efficiency. The new design resulted in shorter charging times, longer life between charges, and improved overall lifespan.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021
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 to take a new step in the microelectronics' development

Researchers at Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University developed a new approach to determine the best electrode materials composition for solid-state lithium-ion batteries. The results demonstrated high charge capacity at high current densities using transition metal oxides.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalNanomaterials·DateMay 18, 2021

Design could enable longer lasting, more powerful lithium batteries

Researchers at MIT have developed a novel electrolyte that overcomes chemical reactions hindering metal electrode use in lithium-ion batteries. This breakthrough could lead to significantly improved capacity and cycle life, enabling new applications like long-range drones and robots.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Energy·DateMar 25, 2021
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.

Recharge your batteries

University of Utah professor Tao Gao's discovery reveals physics behind lithium plating and enables prediction of its occurrence. The breakthrough could lead to faster charging times for electric vehicles and smartphones, reducing charging time from over an hour to under 10 minutes.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJoule·DateMar 24, 2021

Study reveals plunge in lithium-ion battery costs

A recent study reveals a 97% decline in lithium-ion battery costs over the last three decades, driven by rapid growth of electric vehicles and renewable energy. This rate of improvement is comparable to that of solar photovoltaic panels.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateMar 22, 2021

UNIST to develop new electrolyte additives for high-energy-density LIBs

A UNIST research team has developed a novel electrolyte additive that enables long lifespan and fast chargeability of high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries. The additive tackles the shortcomings of conventional materials, such as poor mechanical strength and chemical stability.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 18, 2021

Material from Russia will triple the capacity of lithium-ion batteries

Researchers from NUST MISIS developed a new nanomaterial that can replace low-efficiency graphite in lithium-ion batteries, increasing capacity and extending service life. The material provides three times higher capacity than existing batteries and allows for five times more charge-discharge cycles.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalJournal of Alloys and Compounds·DateMar 10, 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.

In a leap for battery research, machine learning gets scientific smarts

Researchers combined machine learning with physics and chemistry to discover a process that shortens lithium-ion battery lifetimes, overturning long-held assumptions. The approach could dramatically accelerate the development of sturdier batteries for electric vehicles.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 8, 2021

Getting the lead in

Scientists from Argonne National Laboratory have developed a new anode material using lead and carbon that outperforms current graphite anodes with twice the energy storage capacity. The new design enables stable performance during cycling and improves overall battery efficiency.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateFeb 16, 2021

Silicon anode structure generates new potential for lithium-ion batteries

Scientists at OIST have developed a new nanostructure that improves the silicon anode in lithium-ion batteries, increasing its charge capacity and lifespan. The vaulted structure formed by depositing silicon atoms on metallic nanoparticles increases the strength and structural integrity of the anode.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalCommunications Materials·DateFeb 5, 2021