Articles tagged with Sustainable Energy
Scientists in China have developed a process to convert plant waste into high-density aviation fuel, reducing CO2 emissions from airplanes. The biofuel has higher density than conventional fuels, allowing aircraft to fly farther and carry more.
Researchers found a persistent flow of total virtual energy from less-populated to energy-abundant provinces in China increased after the financial crisis. The study highlights the need for holistic policy decisions to mitigate energy's environmental impacts.
Researchers at Joint BioEnergy Institute demonstrate that sustainable plant-based bio-jet fuels could reduce greenhouse gas emissions and be economically viable. The study found that optimizing the production process can lower the cost of biofuels to $2.50 per gallon, making them a viable alternative to conventional jet fuels.
Researcher Alex de Vries finds Bitcoin mining mechanism cannot be powered solely by renewable energy, citing variable hydroelectric production and significant electronic waste generation. Alternative 'proof-of-stake' mechanisms could reduce energy consumption by 99.99% and eliminate e-waste.
Researchers at NREL discovered a way to transform discarded plastics into high-quality composite materials, exhibiting twice the strength of petroleum-based FRPs. The process reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, offering a promising solution for boosting recycling efforts worldwide.
A University of Texas at Arlington researcher is leading a high-powered team in the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) Grid Optimization Competition. The team has secured $250,000 in funding and aims to develop software solutions for efficient energy delivery through the nation's power grid.
A study by IIASA estimates large gaps in access to essential space cooling, particularly in India, SE Asia, and sub-Saharan Africa. Filling this gap would require a 14% increase in global residential electricity consumption.
Researchers at Delft University of Technology developed a new approach to calculate the fast estimation of solar energy potential in urban environments. The method uses two parameters derived from the skyline profile, which simplifies calculations and enables quick assessments of large urban areas.
A new centre for doctoral training in renewable energies will be established in North East England, aiming to develop sustainable power sources for smart devices and future transportation systems. Researchers will work on creating new materials and devices that can convert energy into power at the point of use.
Researchers at ICMAB-CSIC create a new thermoelectric material using bacterial cellulose and carbon nanotubes, offering high electrical conductivity and thermal stability. The device has potential applications in Internet of Things, Agriculture 4.0, and Industry 4.0.
A team led by Cornell University's Peng Chen has determined that photocurrent loses approximately 20% of its power as it passes through the interface between nanoparticles. This finding provides a benchmark for designing efficient nanostructured photoelectrodes and solar devices.
Researchers develop a new way to measure solar panel degradation by using past meteorological data and machine learning algorithms. The method allows for real-time inspection and prediction of solar power output, enabling faster repairs and improved forecasting.
Scientists engineered a photorespiratory shortcut to boost crop growth by 40 percent in real-world agronomic conditions. This innovation uses genetic constructs to reroute the process, saving precious energy and resources for more photosynthesis.
Researchers discovered a previously unexplored consequence of global wind energy proliferation: wake effects from upwind facilities that can reduce downwind neighbors' energy production. The study shows that these effects are measurable and predictable, with the largest impact occurring when winds are in a specific direction at night.
Scientists at HZDR create an electronic skin with magnetosensitive capabilities, allowing humans to perceive the Earth's magnetic field. The sensor is thin, malleable, and can be attached to human skin, facilitating interaction in virtual and augmented reality.
The study highlights the social and environmental costs of hydropower dams, including displacement of people and disruption of natural ecosystems. Experts propose alternative technologies like instream turbine technology to transform the hydropower sector and ensure sustainable energy.
Large dams are not sustainable due to environmental and social concerns, but in-stream turbine technology protects fish and delivers energy locally. This technology can be part of a large sustainable energy portfolio combining solar, wind, and biomass energy production.
Researchers at the University of Adelaide modelled the transition to a sustainable energy future, examining the relative productivity of fossil fuels and renewables. The study shows that fuel productivity determines the viability of renewable energy and how economies will transition from fossil fuels to sustainable sources.
Researchers at KAUST developed a metal-organic framework that selectively adsorbs hydrogen sulfide and carbon dioxide from natural gas, making it cleaner-burning and more environmentally friendly. The technology could also promote increased use of natural gas worldwide, potentially yielding large environmental and economic benefits.
Scientists at Swansea University's Energy Safety Research Institute are working on a £20,000 Royal Society Research Grant to create ultra-conductive wires that can transport electricity with improved energy efficiency. By mixing copper with carbon nanotubes, they aim to reduce the 10% of electricity lost in the grid.
A new study presents a unified path for development and conservation, considering the needs of both people and nature. By using leading projections and aligning with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, researchers envision a world in 2050 where human well-being and nature thrive together.
The Extended Continental-scale Hydroeconomic Optimization (ECHO) model integrates hydrological, environmental, economic, and institutional aspects to study continental-scale water management. It considers local constraints and regional policies at multiple spatial scales.
Disruptive startups attract funding quickly but receive less money than conventional counterparts. Investors are drawn to self-proclaimed disruptors who promise extraordinary returns, but may also deter large investments due to perceived risk.
The University of Delaware has secured a four-year funding renewal from the U.S. Department of Energy for its Catalysis Center for Energy Innovation, advancing processes for converting biomass into chemicals and fuels. The center has contributed to over 340 publications and trained more than 350 students in sustainable technologies.
Researchers at ASU have made significant advances in catalysis, a crucial energy technology. Their work, featured on the cover of the October edition of ACS Catalysis, explores electrocatalytic properties of binuclear Cu(II) fused porphyrins for hydrogen evolution.
A majority of U.S. beer drinkers are willing to pay $1.30 more per six-pack for beer produced with sustainable practices. The brewing industry can reap financial benefits from introducing energy-saving practices, according to a new study published in PLOS ONE.
PolyU has received a generous HK$100 million donation from Ir Dr Otto Poon for strategic research in smart city, smart mobility, and sustainable energy. The fund will support the establishment of two research institutes and two endowed professorships.
Researchers at Hokkaido University create photoelectrode that harnesses 85% of visible light, 11 times more efficient than previous methods. The innovative design uses gold nanoparticles to absorb a broad range of wavelengths, enabling efficient conversion of sunlight into renewable energy.
Researchers advise caution on new pebble-bed nuclear reactors due to potential for accidents and inadequate safety measures. The design lacks key safeguards, including a high-pressure containment structure and redundant cooling system, increasing the risk of radioactive material release.
Researchers have successfully controlled plasma instabilities in a way that could lead to the efficient operation of ITER, a key step towards harnessing fusion power. The experiments used high-pressure plasmas and resonant magnetic perturbations to suppress large ELMs and produce benign ones.
Researchers at NYIT have developed a 3D data modeling tool called IN-SOURCE to simulate and visualize the impact of environmental conditions on FEW distribution networks and urban infrastructure. The tool aims to help policymakers make informed decisions about infrastructure investments and mitigate the effects of climate change.
Researchers investigated natural refrigerants as replacements for CFCs, HCFCs, and HFCs in geothermal heat pumps to reduce energy consumption and operating costs. They found that ammonia and n-butane are the most economical and environmentally friendly alternatives.
Researchers at Berkeley Lab have discovered a method to make the linkages between COFs much more sturdy, giving them new characteristics and expanding their applications. The technique targets weak links and forms resilient bonds that hold up in harsh chemical environments.
The University of Texas at Arlington has received the Excellence in Sustainability Award for its commitment to reducing energy and water consumption. The award recognizes the university's various Earth-conscious initiatives, including bike- and car sharing programs, sustainable materials and designs, and campus green spaces.
Scientists identified nanoscale defects as the cause of voltage fade in Lithium-rich NMC cathode materials. By combining experimental and theoretical approaches, researchers showed that heat treating the materials eliminated most defects, restoring original voltage.
The University of Melbourne researchers have created a tool to calculate the 'nitrogen footprint' of an organization, providing a guide to reduce daily activities' impact on pollution. The study found that institutions can significantly contribute to nitrogen pollution but also have potential for reduction by up to 60%.
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a cheap and sustainable way to build solar cells using bacteria that convert light to energy. The cell generated a current stronger than any previously recorded and worked efficiently in dim light, offering a promising solution for regions with frequent overcast skies.
A study by the European Commission Joint Research Centre found that even with strong efforts, residual carbon emissions will reach over 1000 gigatons by the end of the century, exceeding the level needed to achieve the 1.5°C target. Accelerated energy efficiency improvements and electrification are necessary to limit warming.
The study finds that a radical shift towards renewable energy, energy efficiency, and measures to achieve SDGs is needed. Investments in low carbon energy will likely need to overtake fossil fuel investments as early as 2025.
Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed a 'thin triple' super window design that is seven times more insulating than a single-glazed window. The new technology could save $10 billion annually in energy costs, outperforming insulated walls in winter.
Transforming daily activities like transportation, heating, and device use can limit global warming to 1.5°C. This can be achieved through innovations in energy efficiency and low-carbon development, enabling the meeting of UN Sustainable Development Goals while remaining within the climate target.
Researchers at Binghamton University are developing a micro-device using bio-photovoltaic technology to create self-sustaining wireless sensor networks. The project aims to harness energy from biological photosynthesis to improve wireless sensing and communication, with potential applications in various industries.
Top nitrogen researchers discuss potential pathways to achieve radical improvements in nitrogen fixation chemistry, driven by molecular-level understanding and discovery of new catalytic systems. They also present a clean and renewable light-driven process for converting nitrogen to ammonia, a primary component of fertilizer.
Researchers found that local population involvement and fair decision-making processes are critical to successful low-carbon energy transitions. This includes communication channels, information sharing, and addressing concerns of those affected by the change.
Researchers are working to develop commercially valuable products from plant materials, including chemicals, fuels and industrial materials. The goal is to make biobased products more cost-effective by using lignin and other plant components.
A team of scientists has responded to criticisms on the feasibility of 100% renewable electricity systems, finding that technical solutions exist to address concerns about grid stability and variability. The study reveals that these solutions are affordable, especially given the decreasing costs of wind and solar power.
A new study estimates Bitcoin's minimum current energy usage at 2.55 gigawatts, with predictions suggesting it could consume up to 7.7 gigawatts by the end of 2018. The network's growing electricity demand raises concerns about its sustainability and impact on climate goals.
Scientists have developed battery-free 'smart' toys using triboelectric nanogenerators that gather energy from mechanical vibrations. The devices, powered by squeezing or shaking traditional toys, can illuminate LED lights and may pave the way for self-powered medical sensors and wearable electronics.
Researchers propose a novel two-part system combining gas hydrates and membranes to separate impurities from natural gas. The integrated system aims to improve performance, reduce costs and diminish ecological side effects compared to benchmark technologies.
A research team developed a more effective variant of an enzyme that can break down polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a common plastic used in bottles. The improved enzyme shows promise in degrading not only PET but also a bio-based substitute, polyethylene furandicarboxylate (PEF).
Researchers at Eindhoven University of Technology have developed an artificial leaf that can produce chemicals using sunlight, increasing efficiency by 20%. The 'mini-factory' uses a clever feedback system costing less than 50 euros to automatically adjust production levels.
Researchers recommend integrating smart-sensor-controlled air cleaning technologies with plants to optimize indoor air quality. Plants absorb carbon dioxide, increase humidity, and passively absorb pollutants, making them a potential solution for reducing indoor pollution and saving energy.
A University of Michigan study found that energy-efficient lighting availability and price vary with poverty levels. In high-poverty areas, the upfront cost of LED bulbs is twice as high as conventional incandescent bulbs, limiting access to energy efficiency.
Researchers at Swansea University's Energy Safety Research Institute have found a way to convert CO2 into ethylene, the basis of making plastics, at room temperature. This process has the potential to offset global carbon emissions and utilise half a billion tonnes of emitted CO2 annually.
The High Throughput Experimental Materials (HTEM) Database contains detailed properties and synthesis conditions of inorganic materials, accelerating material science advancement globally. NREL's large-scale database makes it easier for researchers without expensive equipment to explore new materials.
A new study by Terence Saldanha at Washington State University suggests that investing in green technologies can lead to increased energy conservation efforts and profits for companies. The research highlights the importance of timing and technology investments in achieving these benefits.
Researchers create reconfigurable material using liquid tubes, which can be customized into reaction vessels for various uses. The material can conform to surroundings and repeatedly change shape, opening doors for new chemical synthesis and electronic applications.
Researchers from NREL have pinpointed regions on enzymes that can be targeted via genetic engineering to break down cellulose faster. The team has gained a better understanding of the structure-activity relationships of these enzymes, which are crucial for industrial processes such as cellulosic ethanol production.
The US Department of Energy awards a $10.6 million grant to produce more biodiesel and biojet fuel from high-oil content crops like energycane and Miscanthus. The project aims to increase oil production by 15 times compared to soybeans, making it a more sustainable alternative.
Research into polymer solar cells has made significant advances, with increased numbers of publications and patents. However, the technology is unlikely to replace traditional silicon solar cells due to durability and efficiency issues.