Articles tagged with Sustainable Energy
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
A new polymer-based anion exchange membrane has been developed to improve the performance and durability of water electrolysis for green hydrogen production. The membrane demonstrates high hydroxide ion conductivity and can withstand extreme alkaline conditions, making it a valuable component in sustainable hydrogen production.
Researchers have developed a new platinum-nickel core-shell catalyst that exhibits significant boosts in activity and durability, making it a promising solution for sustainable energy applications. The catalyst's excellent performance is attributed to its core-shell design and improved surface strain.
The SRI and University of Houston-affiliated project aims to develop a modular microreactor technology that converts carbon dioxide into methanol using renewable energy sources. The project has the potential to transform sustainable fuel production, offering a clean alternative for sectors like transportation.
Researchers achieved significant improvements in ethanol yields by genetically modifying cyanobacteria to optimize carbon flow and overexpress key enzymes. Modified strains produced ethanol at rates between 0.24 and 3.8 g/L, demonstrating robust performance improvements.
Rice researchers have created a catalyst that leverages plasmonic photocatalysis to break down methane and water vapor into hydrogen and carbon monoxide without external heating. The new catalyst system enables on-demand, emissions-free hydrogen production, which could transform the energy industry.
A new study by Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research and IIASA scientists suggests that there are three promising routes to make significant progress towards the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Agreement. The study's results show that all three pathways are far more effective than current 'business as usual' scen...
Researchers at PIK found that three sustainable development pathways are far more effective than current 'business as usual' strategies, driving progress towards SDGs while curbing global warming and environmental degradation. The pathways include a rapid shift to plant-based nutrition and reduced energy use per capita.
The University of Kansas and Avium will develop new catalysts and technologies to improve the efficiency and reliability of green hydrogen production. The goal is to make clean hydrogen more affordable and support the transition to a clean-energy future.
Researchers developed a new approach for harvesting and storing solar energy efficiently using molecular solar energy storage systems. The system increases solar energy storage efficiency by more than one order of magnitude.
Researchers analyzed a thermophotovoltaic system paired with phase-change materials for energy storage and found slight reductions in costs. The study identified key factors affecting TPV system costs, highlighting the need for future research to improve adoption and efficiency.
Researchers at KAIST have developed a thermoelectric material that can generate electricity from body temperature and maintain stable performance even in extreme environments. The material, made of bismuth telluride fibers, has higher bending strength and showed no change in electrical properties after repeated bending tests.
Researchers at Politecnico di Milano discovered that the ratio of CO2 to methane present in the reaction determines carbon build-up on catalysts. This finding paves the way for more efficient technologies and longer-lasting catalysts.
The Energy Transition Vulnerability Index (ETVI) measures a nation's susceptibility to adverse effects of transitioning away from fossil fuels. Countries in the Global South face greater challenges than those in the Global North, with global vulnerability decreasing but interrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
A new method uses principal components-based feature generation and optimized Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) to estimate the State of Charge (SoC) in LiFePO4 batteries. This approach improves the accuracy and robustness of existing SoC estimation methods, enabling real-time implementation.
Brian Leard, a PhD student at Lehigh University, has been awarded a prestigious DOE grant to conduct research at the DIII-D National Fusion Facility. He aims to develop simulation codes that can optimize actuator operation and improve the accuracy of plasma physics predictions.
Building a renewable energy system for the AtLAST telescope in Chile's Atacama Desert could cover 66% of nearby San Pedro de Atacama's electricity demand. The system would reduce local reliance on fossil fuels and provide affordable renewable energy, contributing to a more sustainable future.
A study by MIT researchers reveals that households in the US South and Southwest are struggling with energy costs, particularly air conditioning needs, as temperatures rise. The current federal program, LIHEAP, does not fully match these trends, with southern states receiving relatively less funding.
A collaborative research team introduced a new approach to sustainable development in arid river basins through a Grey Fractional Multi-Objective Programming (GFMOP) model. The study found that improving water use efficiency can reduce carbon emissions while safeguarding the environment.
The Global Biomass Resource Assessment provides groundbreaking data on current and future sustainable biomass supplies worldwide. The assessment aims to explore potential sources of biomass for a circular and sustainable global bioeconomy, supporting clean fuels, chemicals, materials, and products.
A novel multi-frequency ultrasonic drying technology accelerates the drying of renewable cellulose nanocrystals by up to 50% while minimizing energy consumption. This method demonstrates superior stability in aqueous solutions and aligns with global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
A new, low-cost cathode material developed by Georgia Tech's Hailong Chen could transform the electric vehicle (EV) market and large-scale energy storage systems. The iron chloride (FeCl3) cathode costs a mere 1-2% of typical cathode materials and can store the same amount of electricity.
A new study suggests that using state-of-the-art energy efficiency technologies can enable Europe's construction sector to almost eliminate its carbon emissions by 2060. Employing technologies like solar energy and heat pumps can reduce total energy used for heating and cooling buildings by up to 97%.
Researchers have created a single-step method for producing Invar alloys with zero CO2 emissions and improved mechanical strength. The new process integrates metal extraction, alloying, and thermomechanical processing into one reactor step.
Researchers at HSE University developed mathematical models to predict impact of nuclear power on Sustainable Development Index. Increasing nuclear power share to 20-25% could boost SDI, but scenarios with slower growth or reduction lead to lower increases.
The McGill team's light-driven chemical process transforms methane and carbon dioxide into green methanol and carbon monoxide, producing highly valued products. The discovery offers a promising path towards Canada's net-zero emissions target by 2050 and provides a sustainable way to produce industrial products.
A new study suggests that urban heating and cooling systems will significantly impact future energy demand due to climate change, with smaller-scale city-level waste heat contributing to local microclimates. The research emphasizes the need for comprehensive climate impact assessment and science-based policymaking to address this issue.
Researchers from Texas A&M are leading a $26 million decarbonization effort to convert CO2 into valuable products, driving a circular carbon economy. The initiative aims to develop cost-effective and sustainable solutions for manufacturing systems.
Researchers at Cornell University found that integrating AI into environmental control systems can reduce energy consumption in indoor agriculture by up to 25%. By optimizing lighting and climate regulation, AI helps create an energy-efficient solution for optimal plant growth, carbon dioxide levels, and ventilation requirements.
Researchers developed a new type of temperature-adaptive radiative cooling device with improved performance, reducing solar absorptance by 7.54% and increasing emissivity by 13.3%. This advancement holds promise for optimizing energy use and advancing sustainable thermal management solutions.
The Rice University Sustainability Institute has partnered with Chevron to establish a graduate fellowship program supporting innovative sustainable energy solutions. This year's fellows are tackling critical energy challenges, including recycling lithium-ion batteries and developing cost-effective solar-driven technologies.
Researchers analyzed satellite data to understand solar irradiance variability in the Asia Pacific region, revealing optimal locations for solar power plants and distribution strategies to minimize fluctuations. The study's findings will help plan for sustainable energy technologies and combat climate change.
Researchers engineered bacteria-yeast hybrids to perform photosynthetic carbon assimilation, generating cellular energy without traditional carbon feedstocks. The hybrids can produce important hydrocarbons, paving new biotechnical pathways to non-petroleum-based energy and synthetic biology applications.
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have discovered two species of purple bacteria that can produce polyhydroxyalkanoates, natural polymers for bioplastics. Genetic engineering has also been used to boost production levels in another well-studied but stubborn species.
The research team developed a Zero Energy-based transparent radiative cooling technology that maintains transparency while enabling cooling without using electricity. They also created a Plus Energy-based smart window technology that generates electricity through the friction generated by raindrops on rainy days.
The University of Kansas has received a $26 million grant from the National Science Foundation to create a new Engineering Research Center focused on developing sustainable refrigerant technologies. The EARTH center will address the challenge of replacing hydrofluorocarbons with safer, more environmentally-friendly alternatives.
The new ERC EARTH research center will focus on developing sustainable refrigerant technologies and practices to improve quality of life and combat climate change. Lehigh University's team, led by David Vicic, will work on reclamation and repurposing of high-GWP legacy refrigerants.
A new technology can extract lithium from brines at an estimated cost of under 40% that of today's dominant extraction method. The approach uses redox-couple electrodialysis and is expected to be relatively inexpensive due mostly to lower capital costs.
A University of Central Florida researcher has developed a nature-inspired filtration and conversion system that extracts carbon dioxide gas from the atmosphere to create fuels and chemicals. The device mimics the lotus surface, capturing carbon dioxide with a microsurface comprised of a tin oxide film and fluorine layer.
Researchers at Stanford University have designed an electrified thermochemical reactor capable of generating immense heat using electricity, replacing fossil fuels in industrial processes. The design is smaller, cheaper, and more efficient than existing technology.
The Illinois researchers developed a new index called the Circularity Index (CI), which measures circularity on a scale from 0 to 1. It includes eight categories: take, make, distribute, use, dispose, recover, remake, and reuse. The CI can be used to evaluate strategies and impacts in bioeconomic systems.
Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a novel strategy to increase the efficiency of photopolymerization reactions by leveraging dynamic UV lighting. This technique produces heavier polymer chains with reduced energy consumption, offering potential for sustainable industrial processes and polymeric materials.
Researchers at PolyU have invented a unique fluidic processor called Connected Polyhedral Frames (CPFs), which enables reversible switching between liquid capture and release. CPFs offer a versatile platform for various applications, including controlled multidrug release, biomaterial encapsulation, and air conditioning.
Researchers have developed a new method known as flash-within-flash Joule heating (FWF) that enables gram-scale production of high-quality solid-state materials in seconds, reducing energy and greenhouse gas emissions by over 50%. The technique offers a scalable and sustainable solution for manufacturing diverse compounds.
Researchers at POSTECH have developed an innovative approach to enhance the efficiency of thermoelectric materials by altering their geometry to resemble an hourglass shape. This breakthrough could lead to widespread applications in thermoelectric power generation, converting waste heat into electricity.
Researchers propose a leaf-inspired luminescent solar concentrator (LSC) design to overcome scalability limitations. The innovative setup enhances photon collection and transfer, improving efficiency and reducing self-absorption issues.
Researchers discovered that the iron nitrogenase can convert CO2 into methane and formic acid, making it a promising starting point for developing novel CO2 reductases. The enzyme's low selectivity for CO2 also suggests its potential for widespread use in nature.
A new study shows that empowering women through energy care work can transform community-led renewable energy programmes, promoting gender equality. The research highlights the importance of valuing multiple voices and incorporating diverse practices of care into energy transition policies.
Researchers at the University of Liverpool have achieved a significant milestone in converting carbon dioxide into valuable fuels and chemicals. They report a pioneering plasma-catalytic process for the hydrogenation of CO2 to methanol at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, achieving impressive selectivity rates.
A research team at City University of Hong Kong has developed next-generation printable perovskite solar cells with higher efficiency, stability, and lower production costs. These cells can be manufactured using a 'printing' process, reducing energy consumption and processing steps compared to traditional silicon-based solar cells.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have unveiled an eco-friendly method to extract rare metals from semiconductor waste, recovering precious tungsten and assessing its economic viability. The bioleaching process, using a fungus to dissolve metals, is found to be 7% cheaper than traditional methods.
A survey of Pennsylvanians and policymakers reveals bipartisan support for solar energy and other renewables, but elected officials underestimate their constituents' preferences. The study highlights the need for clear communication between the public and local representatives to ensure informed decision-making about energy projects.
A team of researchers at DGIST developed an ionic polyurethane-based triboelectric generator with self-healing and biodegradable properties, which can produce high electrical energy density. The device shows a power output of up to 436.8 mW/m² and maintains its efficiency after prolonged use.
Researchers at Nagoya University developed a loop heat pipe that can transport up to 10 kW of waste heat without electricity, surpassing previous records. This technology has significant implications for energy efficiency and sustainability, particularly in the electric vehicle industry where it can reduce the need for electrical power.
Researchers from Tokyo University of Science develop a new efficient method for Z-alkene synthesis using a recycling photoreactor coupled with HPLC technology. The study yields good yields of Z-alkenes after 4–10 cycles, representing an environmentally friendly and sustainable approach.
Researchers at Chung-Ang University have discovered an additive that enhances the efficiency of perovskite solar cells, resulting in a record-breaking 12.22% efficiency. The additive, 4-phenylthiosemicarbazide, improves stability and reduces defects, paving the way for more accessible and long-lasting solar panels.
A recent survey conducted by University of Massachusetts Amherst found that consumers prefer glass packaging for orange juice due to its perceived sustainability, but surprisingly, it is actually among the least sustainable options. The study ranked cartons as the most sustainable followed by plastic, aluminum, and then glass.
Researchers at the University of Illinois developed an eco-friendly method to precisely mix fluorine into olefins using natural enzymes and light, offering a more efficient strategy for creating high-value chemicals with potential applications in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, renewable fuels and more.
Researchers create fast and sustainable method to produce hydrogen gas using aluminum, saltwater, and coffee grounds. They find that adding caffeine speeds up the reaction, producing hydrogen in just five minutes.
The MEASURES project in Ghana provides insights into the impact of informal economy, climate migration, and rising temperatures on energy system planning. The researchers developed an energy system model for Accra, which yielded cost-, carbon- and resilience-optimized energy system capacity and operational planning decisions.
The study analyzed four biofuels crops and found that each feedstock performed best in a specific region of the rainfed United States. The researchers identified miscanthus and switchgrass as the most environmentally friendly options, while energy sorghum was the cheapest to produce.