Articles tagged with Sustainable Energy
FES2023 brings together leading researchers and industry experts to share groundbreaking research on AI-based energy solutions, smart grids, and renewable energy systems. The conference covers key themes including planning and operation of energy systems, electricity markets, and demand response.
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.
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.
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.
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.
New research suggests that households could break even on their solar panel investments by 2027, thanks to a steady decline in cost outlay and return on investment. The study also predicts that solar electricity will become a more competitive energy source, making it 40-50% cheaper by 2035.
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.
Researchers are working to develop battery cells that can be easily recycled, reducing the environmental impact of electric cars. The goal is to unlock the full potential of electric vehicles by reusing valuable materials in batteries.
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.
Researchers capture elusive missing step in photosynthesis using SLAC's X-ray laser, revealing an intermediate reaction step that sheds light on how nature optimizes photosynthesis. The data provide a blueprint for optimizing clean energy sources and avoiding side products.
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.
The project aims to collect core samples and temperature data down to 15,000 feet to test the potential of geothermal energy in the region. Data will also be gathered on underground carbon storage in the Appalachian basin, a scientific first in the state.
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%.
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...
Researchers have developed a novel support material called BaAl2O4-xHy that enhances the catalytic activity of cobalt nanoparticles, allowing for record-breaking ammonia production at low temperatures. The catalyst demonstrates improved activation energy and high reusability.
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.
Lutz Grossman aims to create a protein-rich food source using hydrogenotrophic bacteria, which require no agricultural inputs. His goal is to produce a sustainable alternative to traditional protein sources, addressing global food security concerns.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Newcastle University researchers have developed environmentally-friendly photovoltaic cells that harness ambient light to power IoT devices. The cells achieve an unprecedented power conversion efficiency of 38% and are non-toxic, setting a new standard for sustainable energy sources.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A comprehensive roadmap for converting waste energy into clean power has been proposed by global experts. The guide outlines strategies for future research to harness the potential of energy harvesting materials, enabling seamless integration into everyday objects and environments.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
A novel deep learning-based forecasting model predicts uncertain parameters related to renewable energy sources, their energy demand, and market prices. The model demonstrates improved prediction accuracy and efficiency compared to existing methods.
Researchers analyzed 183 million buildings in 6,000 African cities and found that a city's shape affects its energy demand. Double the population means triple the energy costs due to increased commuting distances and pollution.
Researcher Jie Cai aims to understand the interplay between financial and environmental goals in shaping energy use behaviors. He will develop a statistical behavioral model to analyze user interactions with smart thermostats and identify correlations with socio-demographic variables.
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.
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.
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 ...
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.
A review paper on quantum transport could lead to innovative materials and devices for efficient energy management at the nanoscale. The paper provides a structured overview of theoretical understanding, models, methods, and properties of quantum systems.
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 ...
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.
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.
A team of international researchers has developed a novel Co-N-C catalyst for electrochemical hydrogen peroxide synthesis. Their work offers a promising solution to produce H2O2 efficiently and sustainably. The study demonstrates the power of theory-guided research in accelerating the discovery of efficient electrocatalysts.
A study found that communities experiencing sudden and significant job losses in manufacturing are less likely to engage in sustainability planning and meet sustainability-related goals. This is attributed to deep-rooted connections between industry and community identity, making it difficult for these communities to transition.
Researchers at Northwestern University developed a sustainable biorefinery that turns organic waste, including lignin, into valuable products. The process involves a microbial electrolysis cell that breaks down lignin into aromatic compounds with medicinal properties.
Researchers discovered the most efficient way to produce ammonia through electrochemical synthesis, increasing its sustainability. The D5 step site on ruthenium nanoparticles was found to be the most active site for the nitrogen reduction reaction.
Aston University is setting up the first integrated centre to explore low carbon hydrogen production from biomass conversion. The new research centre will enable the acquisition of state-of-the-art equipment, including gasification, membrane separation and fuel cells.
A new research project aims to solve the physics behind excessive bubble formation in electrolysis, a bottleneck in large-scale green hydrogen production. The team will combine numerical simulations and laboratory experiments to develop reliable modelling tools.
Researchers have identified the need for standardization of performance indices and a single frame for normalization methods to address concerns with bioelectrochemical systems. The study proposes strategies for up-scaling BES technologies, enabling resource recovery through on-site treatment of wastewater at an efficiency comparable t...
A new study reveals Iceland's potential to become a protein self-sufficient nation, producing hundreds of thousands of tonnes of biomass while mitigating over 700 million tons of CO2 emissions. This could significantly reduce Europe's reliance on imported protein-rich feed crops and enhance food security.
A new study reveals that replacing traditional wood- and charcoal-burning stoves in sub-Saharan Africa could save up to 463,000 lives yearly due to reduced air pollution. The OnStove tool provides a data-based way to calculate costs and benefits of transitioning to cleaner alternatives.
Researchers developed a novel way to store energy by transporting sand into abandoned underground mines, creating a long-term energy storage solution. The technology generates electricity when the price is high and stores it when cheap, making it an effective and cost-efficient alternative to traditional batteries.
The UN reports that roughly 50,000 large dams worldwide will lose an estimated 23% to 28% of their combined original storage capacity by 2050, resulting in a loss of around 1.65 trillion cubic meters of water. This loss will undermine water security, irrigation, power generation, and other essential services.
Researchers at KAUST developed a high-efficiency metal-free battery using ammonium cations as charge carriers, outperforming existing analogues with a record operation voltage of 2.75 volts. This breakthrough provides potential for lowering battery costs and enabling large-scale applications.