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Researchers demonstrate new, more energy-efficient devices using gallium nitride

Researchers have developed a new technique to dope gallium nitride (GaN), creating high-power electronic devices with reduced energy loss and increased efficiency. This breakthrough enables the use of GaN in compact power electronics for sustainable infrastructure, such as smart grids.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalApplied Physics Express·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2022
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.

Physicists uncover new dynamical framework for turbulence

Researchers create new 'roadmap' for turbulence by analyzing weak turbulent flow between two independently rotating cylinders. They discover that turbulence follows a predictable pattern of recurrent solutions, which explain the emergence of coherent structures in turbulent flows.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 2022

Seven ORNL technologies win R&D 100 research awards

ORNL researchers have won seven 2022 R&D 100 Awards for their advancements in materials science, machine learning, and energy storage. DuAlumin-3D, a high-strength aluminum alloy, and Gremlin, an AI system to identify weaknesses in machine learning models, are among the winning technologies.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·DateAug 25, 2022

Climate extremes: The energy required for adaptation calls for stronger mitigation efforts

A new study finds that adapting to climate change will require more energy than previously estimated, leading to higher energy investments and costs. Ambitious mitigation policies can cut the increase in energy system costs induced by adaptation, resulting in net gains.

SourceCMCC Foundation - Euro-Mediterranean Center on Climate Change·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 25, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Fossil fuel companies’ projections won’t meet Paris Agreement climate goals

New research reveals that fossil fuel companies' decarbonisation scenarios are incompatible with Paris Agreement goals, with most projecting high levels of warming and exceeding the 1.5°C limit. The study provides a critical assessment of scenarios published by public, commercial, and academic institutions.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 16, 2022

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology scientists realize large-area organic solar cells that are low-cost, flexible, and efficient

GIST scientists create a new method to produce OSCs using zinc oxide that overcomes scalability issues without compromising PCE. The new technology uses sputtered ZnO and a ZnO nanoparticle layer obtained through blade coating, resulting in high conversion efficiencies.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 16, 2022

Propane - a solution for more sustainable air conditioning

A new study suggests that using propane as a refrigerant in air conditioners could significantly reduce the global temperature increase from space cooling, with a potential decrease of up to 0.09°C by the end of the century. This is due to propane's low global warming potential score of less than 1.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 16, 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.

New magnesium superionic conductor towards lithium-free solid-state batteries

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science create a metal–organic framework-based magnesium ion conductor showing superionic conductivity at room temperature, overcoming the limitations of magnesium ion-based energy devices. The novel Mg2+ electrolyte exhibits a high conductivity of 10−3 S cm−1, making it suitable for battery applica...

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2022
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.

New technology can help combat climate crisis

Scientists have developed a novel technology that uses bacteria grown on a synthetic semiconductor device to convert sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide into acetate and oxygen. This process produces high-value fuels and chemicals powered by renewable energy, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address the global energy crisis.

SourceNorthumbria University·JournalNature Catalysis·DateAug 3, 2022

The bacteria powering a truly green revolution in personal electronics

A UMass Amherst team has engineered a biofilm capable of producing electricity from the energy in evaporation and converting it into a steady supply. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize wearable electronics by powering small devices and potentially entire electronic systems.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 2, 2022

Listening to the people results in a more sustainable future energy system

A new energy plan developed by researchers at Kyushu University suggests a more sustainable future energy system that includes 61% renewable-based electricity. The plan, which prioritizes solar and wind power, exceeds current projections by 50%, with significant reductions in coal-based generation and nuclear power.

SourceKyushu University·JournalEnergy Economics·TypeSurvey·DateJul 29, 2022
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.

Flexible hybrid capacitors based on transition metal composite electrode

A new electrode material Co3O4@NiMoO4 has been developed for flexible hybrid capacitors, exhibiting high energy density and long cycle stability. The material was grown on porous nickel foam using a two-step hydrothermal method, providing a conductive skeleton for the electrodes.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Optoelectronics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 29, 2022

Milking molecules from microbes

A team of researchers developed a low-energy and efficient way to harvest and concentrate valuable chemicals from microalgae, which can be grown on waste materials. This membrane-based process enables continuous extraction and concentration of secreted metabolites, paving the way for large-scale bio-factories.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateJul 25, 2022

All-in-one solar-powered tower makes carbon-neutral jet fuel

A team of scientists has designed a system that uses water, CO2, and sunlight to produce synthetic kerosene, which can power long-haul commercial flights. The design has been implemented in the field, and its efficiency is around 4%, with plans to improve it to over 15%.

SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 20, 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.

Modified rail cars clean air of CO2 and help mitigate climate change

Researchers developed Direct Air Capture technology to remove carbon dioxide from the air using special rail cars attached to trains. The technology harnesses sustainable energy generated during braking to capture significant quantities of CO2, making it commercially viable and attractive.

SourceUniversity of Sheffield·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 20, 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.

Reducing energy consumption: A new test system for passive cooling materials

Researchers at the University of Bayreuth have created a test system to characterize and compare passive cooling materials, overcoming challenges in determining their performance. The system mimics key factors influencing passive cooling performance, allowing for reproducible tests under identical conditions.

SourceUniversität Bayreuth·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeNews article·DateJul 18, 2022

Novel multi-proton carrier complex as efficient proton conductor at high temperatures

A team of researchers from Tokyo University of Science has developed a novel multi-proton carrier complex that shows efficient proton conductivity even at high temperatures. The resulting starburst-type metal complex acts as a proton transmitter, making it 6 times more potent than individual imidazole molecules.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2022

Geological activity can rapidly change deep microbial communities

Researchers at Stanford University found that deep subsurface microbial communities can change in a matter of days, driven by geological activity rather than environmental pressures. The study provides new insights into the complex dynamics of these underground ecosystems and opens up possibilities for mapping the deep subsurface.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 14, 2022

Environmental impact of perovskite-on-silicon solar PV modules lower than silicon alone

A recent study found that perovskite-on-silicon solar PV modules have 6-18% less environmental impact than traditional silicon modules over their 25-year lifetime. The tandem technology's higher power conversion efficiency compensates for its additional material and production costs.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalSustainable Energy & Fuels·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2022

Reduction of global inequalities in energy use necessary to stop climate change

A new study by ICTA-UAB reveals that existing climate mitigation scenarios perpetuate energy use inequalities between the Global North and South. To stop climate change, the Global North must reduce its energy consumption to sustainable levels while allowing for sufficient growth in energy use in the rest of the world.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalThe Lancet Planetary Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJul 7, 2022
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.

Radiation for responsible recycling: A distributed, microwave-based method to recycle batteries

A new distributed recycling system using microwave irradiation recovers 97% of manganese oxide and zinc from spent alkaline batteries, outperforming conventional methods. The system's potential to reduce annual energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions in Japan is estimated at 26,500 GJ and 1.54 Gg-CO2 eq, respectively.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalResources Environment and Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 7, 2022

Using the power of the sun to roast green chile

Using concentrated sunlight, a team of researchers from Sandia National Laboratories successfully roasted green chile, achieving comparable results to traditional propane roasting. The study found that solar power reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 2.68 pounds per 22 pounds of green chile roasted.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·DateJul 6, 2022

New photocatalytic membrane that can be cleaned using light energy

A new nanosheet-laminated photocatalytic membrane has been successfully developed by Kobe University researchers, demonstrating excellent water permeance and photocatalytic activity. The membrane's photocatalytic properties make it easier to clean, reducing fouling and increasing its potential for tackling global environmental issues.

SourceKobe University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 4, 2022
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.

Pioneering recycling turns mixed waste into premium plastics with no climate impact

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a thermochemical recycling method that produces gas containing carbon atoms from mixed waste, which can be used to create new plastic products. The process eliminates the need for fossil raw materials and achieves negative emissions.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 30, 2022

Bacteria for blastoff: Using microbes to make supercharged new rocket fuel

Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have created a new type of fuel that has higher energy density than traditional heavy-duty fuels. The biofuel, called POP-FAMEs, is produced by bacteria fed with plant matter and can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions when burned.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalJoule·DateJun 30, 2022

New ultrathin capacitor could enable energy-efficient microchips

Researchers developed a thin-layer version of barium titanate, enabling faster switching and lower voltages for next-gen memory and logic devices. The findings could pave the way for more sustainable computing power with reduced energy consumption.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 22, 2022

Assessing the environmental impact of nuclear power generation

A study by Ritsumeikan University researchers analyzed the life cycle assessment of nuclear power generation, revealing varying TMR coefficients across different mining methods and fuel cycles. The results show that nuclear power generates similar natural resources as renewable energy, significantly less than thermal power.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 20, 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.

Biogas and biomethane supply chains leak twice as much methane as first thought

A new Imperial analysis found that biogas and biomethane supply chains release more than twice as much methane as previously estimated, with 62% of leaks concentrated in a few 'super-emitters'. The researchers call for better monitoring and fixing of leaks to ensure the continued use of these climate-friendly gases.

SourceImperial College London·JournalOne Earth·DateJun 17, 2022

Energy harvesting to power the Internet of Things

A new study uses finite element simulation to optimize energy harvesting from vibrating micromagnets for wireless sensor networks in the Internet of Things. The research aims to provide a sustainable micro-energy source for the ubiquitous sensors, reducing the need for battery replacements or recharging.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Special Topics·DateJun 13, 2022

A novel path for sustainable photon upconversion with non-precious metals

Researchers from Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz have achieved a breakthrough in using chromium compounds for efficient green-to-blue photon upconversion. This process can expand the use of low-energy sunlight in solar cells and photochemical reactions, reducing environmental impacts associated with rare metal extraction.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 3, 2022

Time-reversal asymmetry surpasses conversion efficiency limit for solar cells

Researchers have developed a single-cell PV design integrated with nonreciprocal optical components to provide 100-percent reuse of emitted radiation, breaking the Shockley–Queisser limit. This breakthrough enables a quasimonochromatic radiation converter to reach the theoretically maximum Carnot efficiency.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateJun 1, 2022
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.

Solar-biomass hybrid system satisfies home heating requirements in winter

Researchers in China and the US developed a computer simulation model addressing solar power's intermittency by adding biomass to advance a reliable, affordable heating solution. The proposed solar-biomass hybrid system provides cleaner energy than fossil fuel for single-family homes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateMay 31, 2022

Multi-spin flips and a pathway to efficient ising machines

A team of researchers from Waseda University developed a novel solution to efficiently solve complex optimization problems using Ising machines. Their hybrid algorithm reduces residual energy and reaches more optimal results in shorter time, increasing the machine's applicability across industries and sustainability practices.

SourceWaseda University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Computers·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 31, 2022

Turning high-rise buildings into batteries

Researchers propose a novel gravitational-based storage solution using lifts in tall buildings to store energy. The system, called Lift Energy Storage Technology (LEST), stores energy by lifting wet sand containers or other high-density materials.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalEnergy·DateMay 30, 2022

New tech aims to drive down costs of hydrogen fuel

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new technique for extracting hydrogen gas from liquid carriers, making it faster, less expensive and more energy efficient. The new method uses sunlight and a reusable photocatalyst to release hydrogen molecules, reducing the need for rhodium and lowering production costs.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalChemSusChem·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2022
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.

NYU Abu Dhabi researchers demonstrate organic crystals can serve as energy converters for emerging technologies

Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi have discovered that organic crystals can efficiently convert energy, meeting the needs of advanced technologies such as soft robotics and artificial muscles. The material's ability to expand and contract repeatedly without deterioration makes it suitable for applications in electronics.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 20, 2022

Energy, maritime leaders to convene for DOE InnovationXLab Summit

The summit focuses on emerging innovations and scientific capabilities from DOE national laboratories, including self-reinforced cement, temperature-based hibernating batteries, and acoustic tags. These place-based research solutions aim to address challenges in energy resiliency and the maritime industry.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateMay 18, 2022
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.

Improved wind forecasts save consumers millions in energy costs

Researchers found that improved wind forecasts resulted in at least $384 million in energy savings for US consumers over the last decade. The study used NOAA's HRRR model to compare forecast accuracy and quantify cost savings.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateMay 17, 2022

Cutting air pollution emissions would save 50,000 US lives, $600 billion each year

A new study by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers suggests that eliminating air pollution emissions from energy-related activities in the United States would prevent over 50,000 premature deaths each year. The study also found that this action could provide more than $600 billion in benefits annually from avoided illness and d...

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalGeoHealth·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 16, 2022

Modern household energy in rural China changed substantially

A nationwide survey reveals a significant increase in the use of modern energy like electricity and gas for cooking and heating in rural China. The study found that households used an average of 3 different types of fuels, with time-sharing of E&G increasing by 69% for daily cooking activities.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateMay 11, 2022

Lunar soil has the potential to generate oxygen and fuel

Researchers have discovered that lunar soil can convert carbon dioxide into oxygen and fuels, paving the way for sustainable space exploration. The team proposes an 'extraterrestrial photosynthesis' strategy using lunar soil to electrolyze water and produce desired products.

SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2022

Identifying global poverty from space

Researchers have identified over 2.4 million households in 49 countries as being below a certain economic threshold, based on the percentage of unlit settlements detected using nighttime light satellite images. The study found a clear association between increasing percentages of unlit communities and decreasing economic wellbeing levels.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 5, 2022
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Broad participation needed to transform mining for a sustainable future

Current mining practices can be improved through effective policies and stakeholder involvement. A more sustainable extractive industry can supply key raw materials for renewable energy technologies and support the UN Sustainable Development Goals. To achieve this, diverse stakeholders must participate in governance at different levels.

SourceResearch Institute for Sustainability (RIFS) – Helmholtz Centre Potsdam·JournalEarth Science Systems and Society·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 5, 2022

How solving Central Asia's water-energy conflict can also boost renewable energy generation

Researchers propose a dual water and energy storage scheme to resolve the temporal mismatch between resources, reducing CO2 emissions while guaranteeing water supply. The scheme utilizes seasonal pumped hydroelectric systems to store water for irrigation during summer and hydropower generation in winter.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalJournal of Energy Storage·DateMay 3, 2022

Lignin-based jet fuel packs more power for less pollution

Researchers developed a sustainable jet fuel from agricultural waste that increases energy density and replaces aromatics, reducing soot emissions and contrails. The fuel's properties make it suitable for blending with conventional fuels to meet aviation industry demands.

SourceWashington State University·JournalFuel·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2022
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Sapphire fiber could enable cleaner energy and air-travel

Researchers have developed a sensor made of sapphire fibre that can withstand temperatures over 2000°C, enabling significant improvements in efficiency and emission reduction in aerospace and power generation. The technology has potential applications in space and fusion power industries.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalOptics Express·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 21, 2022