Add BrightSurf on Google Email
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.

Acids help against airborne viruses

A study found that acidification of aerosols post-exhalation significantly impacts viral load. Influenza A viruses are inactivated within minutes, while SARS-CoV-2 requires days at typical indoor pH levels.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

Baylor Chemistry researchers synthesize new groundbreaking compound

Researchers at Baylor University have synthesized a new, one-step Lewis superacid called tris(ortho-carboranyl)borane (BoCb3), which has applications in the production of common plastics. The compound is more efficient to produce, safer for the environment, and could potentially save billions of dollars in manufacturing costs.

SourceBaylor University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 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.

High levels of sweet and fruit-flavour chemicals in ‘tobacco-flavoured’ e-cig liquids

Research found high levels of sweet and fruit-flavour chemicals in 'tobacco-flavoured' e-cigarette liquids, particularly fruity and caramellic flavour chemicals. The study suggests manufacturers are getting around regulations by using these flavour chemicals in products marketed as 'tobacco-flavoured', raising concerns about their safety.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalTobacco Control·TypeObservational study·DateNov 3, 2022

Research at Jacobs University: Coffee could offer protection from catching COVID-19

Researchers at Jacobs University have found that a compound in coffee, 5-caffeoylquinic acid, can inhibit the interaction between the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein and the ACE-2 receptor, potentially providing protection against COVID-19. The study's findings suggest that regular coffee drinkers may be less likely to contract the virus.

SourceJacobs University Bremen gGmbH·JournalFood & Function·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 3, 2022

Ben-Gurion University environmental scientists develop a method to turn hazardous acidic industrial wastewater into valuable resources

Researchers have developed a three-step process to treat phosphoric acid plant wastewater, recovering clean water and phosphate while reducing the volume of wastewater by 90%. The circular process uses selective electrodialysis, reverse osmosis, and neutralization, making it a promising solution for industries worldwide.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2022

Specialty and standard coffee beans can be sorted using multispectral imaging and artificial intelligence

A Brazilian research team has developed a novel method to sort specialty and standard coffee beans using multispectral imaging and machine learning. The technique, which does not require roasting or human intervention, uses images of the beans at different wavelengths to distinguish between quality levels.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalComputers and Electronics in Agriculture·DateAug 30, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers realize highly selective carbonylation of CH3Cl to acetic acid

Researchers have developed a novel route to transform CH3Cl to acetic acid through carbonylation, achieving high selectivity and efficiency. The study proposes a reaction mechanism involving chemical adsorption, formation of acetyl groups, and hydrolysis.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 6, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Lights, catalyst, reaction! Converting CO2 to formic acid using an alumina-supported, iron-based compound

Researchers from Tokyo Tech developed an alumina-supported iron-based catalyst that efficiently converts CO2 into formic acid with up to 90% selectivity. The new catalyst's excellent recyclability and low-cost nature make it a promising candidate for reducing atmospheric CO2 levels and providing energy via combustion.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 16, 2022

Synthetic “forever chemicals” known as PFAS linked to liver damage

A new study systematically reviews data on PFAS exposure and liver damage, linking three commonly detected PFAS to elevated levels of a liver enzyme, ALT. The research suggests a potential link between PFAS and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a growing public health crisis affecting 25% of adults worldwide.

SourceKeck School of Medicine of USC·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeMeta-analysis·DateApr 27, 2022

Tangle no more, nanotubes

Researchers develop less-corrosive solutions using methanesulfonic acid, p-toluenesulfonic acid and oleum acids to separate and process nanotubes. The new method enables scalable production of advanced materials with excellent electrical and mechanical properties.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2022
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.

Researchers identify active compounds in giant hornet queen sex pheromones

Scientists have identified three active compounds in sex pheromones of the world's largest hornet, Vespa mandarinia, to attract males and control its reproduction. The discovery could aid in monitoring and controlling the invasive species' spread in North America.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCurrent Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 14, 2022

O-pH, a new UW dental tool prototype, can spot the acidic conditions that lead to cavities

Researchers created a dental tool that measures plaque acidity using an LED light and FDA-approved chemical dye, providing dentists with early warning signs of cavity development. The device can help limit the need for specific harmful bacteria tests and educate patients about sugar's impact on oral health.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalIEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2022

Gold nanoparticle-based electrode efficiently co-detects dopamine and uric acid in urine samples, shows new study in Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis

Researchers developed a novel electroanalytical technique that co-detects dopamine and uric acid in urine samples, overcoming interference from ascorbic acid. The technique uses a gold-containing ternary nanocomposite electrode, enabling simultaneous detection of low-level DA and UA under physiological conditions.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Pharmaceutical Analysis·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 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.

Fungus found to synthesize valuable compounds in perennial plant found in Northern Asia

A study discovered that fungus Cyanodermella asteris synthesizes valuable compounds in plant Aster tataricus, influencing its growth. The interaction reveals a two-way dialogue between the microbe and host, with the fungus producing beneficial compounds while also being influenced by plant hormones.

SourceAmerican Phytopathological Society·JournalMolecular Plant-Microbe Interactions·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Anti-odor coating is no washout

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a cost-effective and convenient method to apply an antimicrobial silver coating to textiles using polyphenols found in wine and chocolate. The coating maintains its properties even after multiple washes and has potential applications in hospitals and other sterile environments.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 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.

Ultrasound can enable faster, more sustainable battery recycling

Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology developed an ultrasound-assisted extraction method for valuable metals from electric car batteries, reducing extraction time by 50% and increasing metal ion recovery. The new process uses gentler acids and eliminates the need for harsh chemicals.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalGreen Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021

Alginic acid improves artificial bones, study shows

A study published in the Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Medicine found that alginic acid improves artificial bones by increasing porosity, compressive strength, and setting time. The addition of alginic acid to calcium phosphate cement enhances its mechanical properties, allowing for more effective bone replacement.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalJournal of Materials Science Materials in Medicine·TypeNews article·DateAug 11, 2021

Scientists synthesize a material which can completely replace natural gypsum in the construction industry

Researchers develop method to produce high-quality gypsum binders from synthetic calcium sulfate dihydrate, surpassing natural gypsum in several parameters. The new material can replace natural gypsum in countries without gypsum stone deposits, reducing production costs and simplifying technology.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalJournal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry·DateJul 30, 2021
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.

Microbial gene discovery could mean greater gut health

Scientists have identified a set of microbial genes that play a crucial role in converting bile acids into beneficial forms. This discovery could lead to the development of therapeutic strategies to enhance gut health and prevent diseases associated with unbalanced bile acid levels.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·JournalGut Microbes·DateMay 27, 2021

Study points to potential treatment for citrus disease

A new study suggests that hexanoic acid could be a suitable substitute for chemical protection in citrus cultivation, addressing concerns about the impact of old-school defenses on food safety. Researchers believe this fatty acid may help protect against diseases like canker, which causes brownish lesions on leaves and fruit.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Applied Microbiology·DateMay 19, 2021

Mechanism deciphered: How organic acids are formed in the atmosphere

A team of researchers has discovered the dominant mechanism behind the formation of formic acid in the atmosphere, a key contributor to air acidity. The study reveals that formaldehyde reacts with water molecules to produce methanediol, which then oxidizes to form formic acid.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature·DateMay 12, 2021

Exploring the possibilities of hyaluronic acid

Research has expanded hyaluronic acid's uses beyond cosmetics, exploring its potential in wound healing, nerve and muscle pain treatments, and cancer therapy. The ingredient is being combined with other proven ingredients to create optimized products with tangible results.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateMay 5, 2021
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.

Story tips: Stealthy air leak detection, carbon to chemicals and recycling goes large

Oak Ridge National Laboratory has developed a non-invasive air leak detection method that uses imaging technique to visualize air leaks and calculate volumetric flow. The lab also engineered a microbe to efficiently turn waste into itaconic acid, an industrial chemical used in plastics and paints. Additionally, researchers demonstrated...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 3, 2021

Researchers design micro-sized capsules for targeted drug delivery -- inspired by Russian pelmeni

A team of researchers has developed a method to create biodegradable polymer microcapsules with non-spherical shapes, which can enhance targeted drug delivery. The capsules are designed using soft lithography and have shown promising results in retaining hydrophilic molecules and being internalized by cells without causing toxic effects.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalMaterials & Design·DateApr 22, 2021

Lighting up bone repair

A team at Tokyo Medical and Dental University developed a material that aids in bone healing, allows for clear assessment of bone damage and clarifies probable patient outcomes. The material incorporates a fluorescent molecule, enabling real-time visual analysis and predictions of therapeutic outcomes.

SourceTokyo Medical and Dental University·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateMar 24, 2021

Watch: Recycled cotton becomes new fabric

Researchers at Lund University develop a method to convert cotton into sugar, which can be turned into spandex, nylon, or ethanol. The process involves soaking fabrics in sulphuric acid, producing a clear, dark amber-coloured sugar solution with potential uses in various industries.

SourceLund University·JournalWaste Management·DateMar 1, 2021

Biologists from RUDN University suggested a new substance to suppress neuroinflammation

Researchers found that hymecromone, a spasmolytic drug, reduces the production of anti-inflammatory molecules in astrocytes. This could lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's. Hymecromone's mechanism of action is thought to involve reducing hyaluronic acid synthesis, which affects inflammation.

SourceRUDN University·JournalInternational Journal of Molecular Sciences·DateFeb 26, 2021
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.

Modeling a better catalyst for PIBSAs

Researchers have developed a computational model to improve the production of polyisobutenyl succinic anhydrides (PIBSAs) for auto industry formulations. The study reveals the detailed mechanism of Lewis acid-catalyzed reactions, enabling faster and more efficient synthesis with reduced energy input.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry·DateFeb 17, 2021

Chemists developed a simplified method for pharmaceutical compounds synthesizing

Chemists have developed a simplified three-step process for synthesizing spirocyclic tetrahydroisoquinolines, a key organic molecule in drug discovery. The new method significantly reduces the time and complexity of existing approaches, enabling more efficient creation of pharmaceutical compounds.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalTetrahedron Letters·DateFeb 9, 2021

New synthetic route for biofuel production

A German-Chinese research team has developed a new synthetic route to produce biofuel from biomass, achieving a higher yield and selectivity under milder reaction conditions. The method uses formic acid as a key catalyst, resulting in faster reaction rates and reduced unwanted side reactions.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateFeb 8, 2021

Extreme UV laser shows generation of atmospheric pollutant

Researchers from Hokkaido University have found that ultraviolet light reacts with nitrophenol to produce atmospheric nitrous acid, a key component of photochemical smog. This decomposition process occurs in real-time and involves the distortion of the nitrophenol molecule's shape under extreme UV light.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateFeb 2, 2021

Bile acids may play previously unknown role in Parkinson's

Researchers found changes in gut microbiome composition correlate with higher levels of toxic bile acids in people with Parkinson's. The findings suggest bile acids may be a viable biomarker for diagnosing Parkinson's early and tracking its progression.

SourceVan Andel Research Institute·JournalMetabolites·DateFeb 2, 2021
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.

Carbon monoxide reduced to valuable liquid fuels

Rice University engineers have created a process that converts carbon monoxide directly into acetic acid, a widely used chemical agent. The electrochemical process uses nanoscale copper cubes and solid-state electrolytes to produce highly purified acetic acid with up to 98% purity.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 11, 2021

RUDN University chemists developed cheap and eco-friendly surfactants

Researchers created a cost-efficient method to synthesize eco-friendly 'pseudo' gemini surfactants with comparable performance to existing compounds. The new surfactants have desirable properties, such as low superficial tension and biodegradability, making them suitable for various industries like skincare, medicine, and construction.

SourceRUDN University·JournalJournal of Molecular Liquids·DateNov 12, 2020

AJTMH tip sheet for October 2020

Researchers found that hypochlorous acid can chemically modify malodorous compounds and rapidly inactivate infectious particles, promoting greater latrine use. The study also shows potential for HOCl to improve latrine odor and reduce transmission of diseases such as dengue fever.

SourceBurness·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateOct 15, 2020
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.

Advancing carbon dioxide catalysis

Feng Jiao, a renowned chemical engineering expert, is leading research on transforming carbon dioxide into valuable chemicals using catalysis. His projects aim to produce formic acid and ethylene from CO2 without purification, with the goal of commercializing this technology.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateSep 30, 2020

E. coli engineered to grow on CO2 and formic acid as sole carbon sources?

A team at KAIST developed an E. coli strain that can grow up to 11-fold higher cell density using CO2 and formic acid as sole carbon sources. The engineered strain shows promise for producing chemicals from these carbon sources, a crucial step forward in biorefinery production.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·DateSep 28, 2020

Ascorbic acid-mediated reactions in organic synthesis

Researchers explore ascorbic acid's role in organic synthesis, revealing its potential as a catalyst for diverse reactions and its unique mechanistic pathways. This study contributes to green chemistry by demonstrating the versatility of ascorbic acid in environmentally benign processes.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Organocatalysis·DateSep 25, 2020
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.

Unexpected wildfire emission impacts air quality worldwide

Researchers detected nitrous acid levels two to four times higher than expected in wildfire plumes globally, driving increased ozone pollution and air quality harm. The chemical accelerates the formation of lung-damaging ozone pollution downwind of fires, with significant variations depending on ecosystem type.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalNature Geoscience·DateSep 21, 2020

Hydrochloric acid boosts catalyst activity

A research team from Technical University of Munich has developed a synthesis process that drastically increases the activity of catalysts for removing sulfur from crude oil. The new process uses concentrated hydrochloric acid to improve catalytic performance.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 25, 2020

Cashew shell compound appears to mend damaged nerves

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center discovered a cashew shell compound that promotes myelin repair in laboratory experiments. The compound, anacardic acid, inhibits an enzyme involved in gene expression, leading to increased production of IL-33 and rapid induction of myelin genes and proteins.

SourceVanderbilt University Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

How sour beer gets so... sour (video)

Researchers analyze how acids and other compounds contribute to sour beer's unique taste, with findings that could help brewers gain more control over the flavor. The study uses NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry to track changes in organic acids and identify trace compounds that influence flavor.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 17, 2020

Sustainable nylon production made possible by bacteria discovery

Scientists from the University of Edinburgh developed a sustainable method to produce adipic acid, a key component of nylon, using genetically modified bacteria grown in liquid solutions containing guaiacol. This approach produces adipic acid without emitting nitrous oxide greenhouse gases.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalACS Synthetic Biology·DateAug 13, 2020

Two for the price of one

Researchers from Kyoto University have developed a new method to synthesize dicarboxylic acids and generate hydrogen as a byproduct. Using renewable diols and an iridium catalyst, the process achieves greater efficiency and yield, offering a safer alternative for industrial organic chemistry.

SourceKyoto University·JournalChemSusChem·DateJul 30, 2020
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.

Novel computer-assisted chemical synthesis method cuts research time and cost

Researchers at Hokkaido University have successfully synthesized a non-natural fluorinated amino acid using a novel computer-assisted method. The Artificial Force Induced Reaction (AFIR) method predicts feasible reaction pathways, significantly reducing synthesis time and cost, with yields of up to 99.99%.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalChemical Science·DateJun 8, 2020

Functional polymers to improve thermal stability of bioplastics

Functional star-shaped polymers exhibit improved thermostability, making them suitable for medical diagnostics and targeted drug delivery. The study establishes a relationship between the synthesis conditions and the structure of the obtained compounds.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalReactive and Functional Polymers·DateJun 8, 2020

A hormone -- plant style

Scientists at Bielefeld University have created a method to produce a biologically significant precursor of jasmonic acid, a hormone that helps plants defend against predators. The new approach mimics how plants naturally produce the hormone, using enzymes as plant catalysts in a synthetic process.

SourceBielefeld University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMay 29, 2020