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Towards efficient lithium–air batteries with solution plasma-based synthesis of perovskite hydroxide catalysts

Researchers at Shibaura Institute of Technology have developed a faster way to synthesize CoSn(OH)6, a powerful catalyst required for high-energy lithium–air batteries. The new method uses solution plasma-based synthesis and achieves highly crystalline CSO crystals with improved catalytic properties.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalSustainable Energy & Fuels·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2023

Potential financial losses from a renewable energy transition are concentrated among the wealthy

A recent study published in Joule found that the financial losses from a renewable energy transition are concentrated among the wealthiest individuals. In high-income countries, two-thirds of the losses would affect the top 10% of wealth holders, with half affecting the top 1%. In contrast, lower-income individuals would face minimal l...

SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·TypeObservational study·DateJun 22, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Study proposes simple low-cost solutions to improve thermal comfort in social housing

Researchers developed a pilot study to address the issue of thermal discomfort in social housing projects. They proposed replacing conventional windows with fully openable tilting windows, monolithic expanded polystyrene walls, and green-tinted tempered glass, which can reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalSustainability·DateJun 21, 2023

Clean, sustainable fuels made ‘from thin air’ and plastic waste

Scientists at the University of Cambridge have developed a solar-powered reactor that captures CO2 from industrial processes or directly from the air and converts it into sustainable fuels. The technology also uses plastic waste, converting it into glycolic acid and other valuable chemical products.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalJoule·DateJun 19, 2023

Solar cells can, finally, stand the heat

Researchers from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev have developed a new approach to understanding photovoltaic device performance under varying temperatures. Their findings suggest that thermoradiative and thermophotonic cells can efficiently convert sunlight into electricity even at high temperatures.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalPhysical Review Applied·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 14, 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.

New recipes for better solar fuel production

A team of researchers from China and the UK has developed new ways to optimise the production of solar fuels by creating novel photocatalysts. These photocatalysts, such as titanium dioxide with boron nitride, can absorb more wavelengths of light and produce more hydrogen compared to traditional methods.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalApplied Surface Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2023

Improving market design for energy storage

A new study finds that electricity market design plays a crucial role in trade-offs between more affordable energy and lower carbon emissions. Researchers discovered that participating in day-ahead markets reduces carbon emissions, while real-time markets reduce costs.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalJoule·DateJun 8, 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.

Experts uncover the water and emissions footprint of snowmaking: Can we rely on it in an era of climate change?

A national study in Canada found that snowmaking requires 17,000 homes' worth of annual energy and 43.4 million cubic meters of water to produce 42 million cubic meters of machine-made snow. Collaboration between ski operators, policymakers, and environmental organizations is needed to develop sustainable practices.

SourceTaylor & Francis Group·JournalCurrent Issues in Tourism·DateJun 7, 2023

Potentially producing carbon-neutral fuels: HKU chemists achieve sustainable solar energy conversion with artificial photocatalysis

Researchers at HKU have designed a self-assembling artificial spherical chromatophore nanomicelle system that mimics the photosynthetic apparatus of bacteria, achieving high stability and efficiency in solar energy conversion. This breakthrough could lead to sustainable solutions for carbon-neutral fuels and renewable energy.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 7, 2023

Ba2LuAlO5: A new proton conductor for next-generation fuel cells

Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology have discovered a new proton conductor, Ba2LuAlO5, which shows high proton conductivity even without modifications. The material's unique structure and water absorption properties make it ideal for protonic ceramic fuel cells, promising a bright future for sustainable energy generation.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalCommunications Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers improve the solubility of redox molecules for enhanced energy storage systems

Researchers from GIST have developed a hydrotropic-supporting electrolyte to enhance the solubility of organic redox molecules in aqueous systems. This improvement enables the creation of high-energy-density electrochemical capacitors with potential applications in redox flow batteries.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 1, 2023
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.

The next generation of solar energy collectors could be rocks

Researchers have discovered that certain soapstone and granite samples from Tanzania are well-suited for storing solar heat, featuring high energy densities and stability. These rocks show promise as a sustainable energy storage material for concentrated solar power generation and solar drying technology.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Omega·DateMay 30, 2023

Saving desalination membranes from minerals and microbes

A recent study identified orthophosphate as a contaminant in some antiscalants that promotes bacterial growth, while HEDP-based antiscalants showed no biofouling effect. The research aims to develop simple low-tech tests for desalination plants to reduce energy consumption and extend membrane lifespan.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalWater Research·DateMay 11, 2023

Rooftop solar panels could power one third of US manufacturing sector

A new study reveals that rooftop solar arrays can meet the entire electricity demand of up to 35% of US manufacturers, currently accounting for only 2.2% of the grid mix. The research investigates the feasibility of on-site solar panel installations across different regions and manufacturing sectors in the US.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalEnvironmental Research Infrastructure and Sustainability·DateMay 11, 2023

Tiny microbes could brew big benefits for green biomanufacturing

Researchers have engineered bacteria to combine natural enzymatic reactions with the carbene transfer reaction, producing new-to-nature carbon products that can be used in biochemicals and advanced biofuels. This breakthrough could reduce industrial emissions by providing sustainable alternatives to chemical manufacturing processes.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 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.

Machine learning can support urban planning for energy use

Researchers at Drexel University developed a machine learning model to predict Philadelphia's future energy use based on zoning decisions and building characteristics. The model uses two machine learning programs to tease out patterns from massive datasets and make projections about future energy consumption.

SourceDrexel University·JournalEnergy and Buildings·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 4, 2023

GAME-Net: a graph neural network for fast evaluation of the adsorption energy in heterogeneous catalysis

Researchers developed GAME-Net, a graph neural network that rapidly evaluates adsorption energy for large molecules like plastics and biomass. The model achieves accuracy comparable to density functional theory (DFT) while utilizing simple molecular representations.

SourceInstitute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)·JournalNature Computational Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 2, 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.

How solid air can spur sustainable development

A new paper proposes solidifying air as a medium to reduce energy consumption and costs in transporting hydrogen by sea. The process, called Solid Air Hydrogen Liquefaction (SAHL), has the potential to lower energy consumption for liquefying hydrogen by 25-50%.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateApr 28, 2023

6% of nations provide for citizens in just, sustainable manner

Researchers at Ohio State University found that only 6% of countries provide for all citizens in an ecologically sustainable way. The study measured the ecological and social impact of water and carbon use, finding that while 67% operate safely and sustainably in water use, only 9% do in carbon sequestration. The US is among the majori...

SourceOhio State University·JournalOne Earth·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 28, 2023

Newly developed hydrogel nanocomposite for the mass production of hydrogen

A new type of floatable photocatalytic platform composed of hydrogel nanocomposites efficiently proceeds hydrogen evolution reaction. The platform exhibits clear advantages over conventional systems, including efficient solar energy conversion and easy gas diffusion.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 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.

Social media data sheds light on air conditioning interest

A new study uses social media data to understand global air conditioning adoption patterns. It finds that middle-aged, educated males and parents of small children tend to express higher online interest in AC. This research aims to improve climate change adaptation measures by identifying sociodemographic groups at risk.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalOne Earth·DateApr 22, 2023

On-demand preparation of organosilicon reagents

Scientists at the National University of Singapore have developed a new method for synthesizing organosilanes using eosin Y, a low-cost and readily available dye molecule. This enables stepwise customised functionalisation of multihydrosilanes to access fully substituted silicon compounds.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 21, 2023

Greener batteries

Researchers have developed a new type of organic battery that uses redox-organic electrode materials (OEMs) synthesized from natural materials. The battery features high capacity, scalability, and recyclability, making it a promising sustainable alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 21, 2023

New passive device continuously generates electricity during the day or night

Researchers developed a new thermoelectric generator that can generate electricity using heat from the sun and radiative element, providing reliable power source for outdoor sensors and wearable electronics. The device works continuously during day or night and in cloudy conditions, addressing constraints of traditional power sources.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateApr 18, 2023

Even as temperatures rise, this hydrogel material keeps absorbing moisture

Researchers discovered a hydrogel material that maintains its ability to absorb moisture despite rising temperatures, contradicting intuition. The material, polyethylene glycol (PEG), doubles its water absorption between 25-50 degrees Celsius, making it suitable for passive cooling and water harvesting applications.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 18, 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.

Humans need Earth-like ecosystem for deep-space living

A new theory, dubbed the Pancosmorio theory, emphasizes the importance of maintaining an Earth-like ecosystem for human survival in deep space. The key factors include gravity, which induces a pressure gradient in the body, and oxygen, which is generated by plants on Earth.

SourceCornell University·JournalFrontiers in Astronomy and Space Sciences·DateApr 12, 2023

Gender and energy key to sustainable development goals

Research highlights gaps in knowledge about the relationship between gender and energy, limiting policymakers' actions and exacerbating inequality. Women's access to finance, education, and household bargaining power can increase adoption of efficient cooking technologies and cleaner fuels.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Energy·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 6, 2023

Harnessing nature to promote planetary sustainability

The latest issue of PLOS Biology features a special collection on biology-based solutions to reduce plastic pollution, carbon dioxide emissions, and produce food or energy more sustainably. Insect enzymes may degrade plastic waste, while photosynthetic algae can capture CO2 produced by industrial applications.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Biology·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 31, 2023

Energy-efficient and customisable inorganic membranes for a cleaner future

Researchers at NUS developed a new synthesis strategy for highly efficient inorganic membranes, offering maximum energy efficiency and customization. These freestanding membranes have the potential to transform industries beyond filtration and separation, including energy conversion, catalysis, and sensing.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature·DateMar 29, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Team uses natural catalysts to develop low-cost way of producing green hydrogen

Researchers have developed a practical method to generate green hydrogen using natural enzymes, which contain only earth-abundant elements. The new approach enables the efficient production of green hydrogen from sunlight, making it a promising solution for decarbonizing transportation and industries.

SourceSwansea University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2023

Wastewater to energy: new treatment process can improve biorefinery sustainability

Researchers at CABBI designed a new wastewater treatment process that simultaneously treats water and recovers biogas, reducing capital costs and energy usage. The process efficiently converts organic contaminants to biogas, achieving simultaneous energy recovery and wastewater treatment.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateMar 24, 2023

Nano cut-and-sew: New method for chemically tailoring layered nanomaterials could open pathways to designing 2D materials on demand

Researchers developed a chemical scissor to split and stitch nanoscopic layers of two-dimensional materials, opening pathways to sustainable energy technologies. This new process allows for structurally splitting, editing, and reconstituting layered materials with exceptional properties.

SourceDrexel University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 16, 2023

Propeller advance paves way for quiet, efficient electric aviation

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a propeller design optimisation method that paves the way for quiet, efficient electric aviation. The new design can reduce noise emissions by up to 5-8 dBA, comparable to going from a normal conversation voice to a quiet room.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAerospace·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 14, 2023
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.

A European consortium achieves record efficiency in direct conversion of CO2 and H2O into sustainable fuels using earth-abundant materials

A European consortium has achieved a world-record solar-to-fuel efficiency of over 10% in converting CO2 and H2O into sustainable fuels using sunlight. The innovative cell produces hydrogen continuously (24/7) without the use of critical raw materials.

SourceInstitute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateMar 13, 2023

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers develop a novel thermoelectric generator inspired from zebra skin

Researchers at GIST developed a novel thermoelectric generator inspired by zebra skin, creating a high in-plane temperature gradient for generating electricity. The design uses a pattern resembling black-and-white zebra stripes to increase its applicability while reducing environmental impact.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2023

New “camera” with shutter speed of 1 trillionth of a second sees through dynamic disorder of atoms

Researchers at Columbia University have developed a new 'camera' that can see atomic structures in real-time, revealing the dynamic disorder of materials. This breakthrough enables better understanding of thermoelectric devices and waste heat conversion, leading to more efficient sustainable energy applications.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 7, 2023

Electric vehicle batteries could get big boost with new polymer coating

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

UCLA engineers design solar roofs to harvest energy for greenhouses

Researchers at UCLA have developed a new type of solar roof that can harness energy from sunlight without blocking light for plants. The innovative design uses semi-transparent organic solar cells with a layer of L-glutathione, which extends the cells' lifetime and improves efficiency.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 6, 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.

Biochar offers new promise for climate-smart agriculture

Researchers synthesized global data from nearly 600 studies on biochar to analyze its potential as a climate-smart agricultural practice. Biochar acts like a sponge, improving soil's capacity to hold water and nutrients, making it more resilient to droughts and sustaining crop yields.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 21, 2023
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.

Ukraine energy crisis may push millions into extreme poverty

A new study reveals that rising energy prices triggered by the Russia-Ukraine conflict could push up to 141 million more people around the globe into extreme poverty. Households' energy costs are likely to rise by 62.6% - 112.9%, contributing to a 2.7% - 4.8% hike in household expenditure and cost-of-living pressures.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Energy·DateFeb 16, 2023

Study demonstrates energy-efficient conversion of nitrate pollutants into ammonia

A new study by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign demonstrates an approach for integrated capture and conversion of nitrate-contaminated waters into valuable ammonia using a single electrochemical cell. The device shows significant enhancements in energy efficiency, nitrate removal, and ammonium production rate compared to ...

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023

Canada’s first zero-carbon, net-positive energy building is on track to propel Ontario’s energy transition

Researchers at the University of Waterloo analyzed a zero-carbon building in Canada and found that data-driven improvements helped reduce energy consumption by 15% without compromising comfort. The building is now on track to achieve its target, producing five percent more clean energy than it consumes and adding it to the Ontario grid.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalEnergy and Buildings·DateFeb 15, 2023

Breakthrough technology transforms waste plastic bottles into polymers for lithium-ion batteries

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
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

What makes people care about the environment?

A new study by Jonas Peisker found that favorable economic contexts, such as high income levels and low inflation, foster environmental concern. Social cohesion also played a significant role in prioritizing environmental issues. Regions with greenhouse gas-intensive industries had lower environmental concerns among locals.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalGlobal Environmental Change·DateFeb 8, 2023

A chat may help convert a peer to a pro-sustainability stance

Researchers at Ohio State University discovered that exposure to a pro-sustainability opinion in conversation can persuade people with anti-sustainability views to support environmentally friendly initiatives. In contrast, individuals with a pro-sustainability viewpoint remain unpersuaded by opposing viewpoints.

SourceOhio State University·JournalJournal of Environmental Psychology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2023