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Novel reaction could spark alternate approach to ammonia production

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have discovered a new type of catalytic reaction that generates ammonia from nitrogen and water using an electric field and nanoscale carbon spikes. The process occurs at room temperature and could lead to more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly methods for fertilizer production.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 2, 2018
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.

What do Uranus's cloud tops have in common with rotten eggs?

Astronomers have confirmed the presence of hydrogen sulfide in Uranus's cloud tops using sensitive spectroscopic observations. This discovery sheds light on questions about the planets' formation and history, particularly regarding the early Solar System's balance between nitrogen and sulfur.

SourceAssociation of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)·JournalNature Astronomy·DateApr 23, 2018

Notre Dame researchers developing renewable energy approach for producing ammonia

Researchers at the University of Notre Dame are developing a renewable energy approach for synthesizing ammonia, which is essential for fertilizers and food production. The new process utilizes plasma in combination with non-noble metal catalysts to generate ammonia at milder conditions than the traditional Haber-Bosch process.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalNature Catalysis·DateApr 4, 2018

Highly efficient ammonia synthesis catalyst developed

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have discovered a highly efficient ammonia synthesis catalyst that functions at low temperatures, exceeding the efficiency of conventional ruthenium and iron catalysts. The catalyst's unique structure expands surface area to improve performance.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 7, 2018
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Ammonia emissions unlikely to be causing extreme China haze

Researchers from Georgia Institute of Technology found that elevated ammonia levels in Beijing have a relatively little impact on the acidity of pollutant particles. They suggest that sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide could be more significant contributors to extreme haze, which is linked to human health risks.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 3, 2017

UV-irradiated amorphous ice behaves like liquid at low temperatures

Researchers from Hokkaido University discovered that UV-irradiated amorphous ice exhibits liquid-like behavior at extremely low temperature ranges. The ice behaves similarly to a liquid, with a viscosity similar to that of honey or silicic magma, allowing it to facilitate the formation of organic compounds and dust accretion on planets.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 29, 2017

NASA's robotic 'sniffer' confirms space station leak, repair

The Robotic External Leak Locator (RELL) successfully located a small ammonia leak on the International Space Station, confirming its safety status and avoiding a risky spacewalk. The instrument provided precise measurements of gas amounts and types, allowing operators to isolate and repair the leak.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateSep 14, 2017

Scientists probe Neptune's depths to reveal secrets of icy planets

Researchers at the University of Edinburgh used computer simulations to predict chemical compounds in Neptune's mantle, finding ammonia hemihydrate as a likely component. The discovery sheds light on the extreme conditions and chemistry of ice giants, influencing future studies.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 11, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Biochar shows benefits as manure lagoon cover

Researchers found that biochar can absorb nutrients from manure, reducing nutrient runoff and water pollution. Biochar also demonstrated significant reductions in ammonia emissions, a primary contributor to manure odors.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateAug 9, 2017

A uranium-based compound improves manufacturing of nitrogen products

Researchers at EPFL have developed a uranium-based compound that enables nitrogen fixation to occur in ambient conditions, paving the way for more efficient catalysts and new concepts for metals beyond uranium. This breakthrough has significant implications for the production of ammonia and other nitrogen-containing compounds.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature·DateJul 19, 2017

Ammonia on demand? Alternative production method for a sustainable future

Researchers at Waseda University have developed an efficient alternative method for synthesizing ammonia at low temperature using surface proton hopping. This breakthrough could lead to on-demand ammonia production plants running on renewable energy, with potential applications in various industries and energy sources.

SourceWaseda University·JournalChemical Science·DateJun 13, 2017

Nitrogen fixation research could shed light on biological mystery

Researchers at Caltech have developed a new way of fixing nitrogen, inspired by how microbes do it, which could hold the potential for two major benefits: ease of production and understanding natural nitrogen fixation. The technology being developed is simpler and more efficient than previous methods, making it possible to study fixati...

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalACS Central Science·DateMay 30, 2017
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Sensors detect disease markers in breath

Researchers at the University of Illinois developed a sensor that detects ammonia in breath, a sign of kidney failure. The device is sensitive enough to detect low levels, making it suitable for portable, disposable use.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMay 18, 2017

Newly characterized protein has potential to save US farmers millions annually

Researchers have discovered a key protein involved in photorespiration, a process that wastes energy and fixed carbon in plants. The Bile Acid Sodium Symporter 6 (BASS6) protein could be manipulated to increase plant productivity by reducing losses from this process.

SourceCarl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateMar 30, 2017
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.

Flipping the switch on ammonia production

Researchers have created a novel method to produce ammonia at room temperature, utilizing enzymes derived from nature, which also generates a small electrical current. This process could potentially lead to a less energy-intensive source of ammonia used worldwide as a vital fertilizer.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 3, 2017

First detection of ammonia in the upper troposphere

Researchers detected high concentrations of ammonia in the upper troposphere over the Asian monsoon, suggesting a significant role in aerosol formation and potential cooling effect on the atmosphere. The findings provide new insights into the vertical distribution of atmospheric ammonia.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateDec 5, 2016
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Research planned for unique spinning nuclei nets prize

Elena Long's research aims to study the structure of nuclei by exploring how six quarks give rise to a binding force. She plans to use a new target made of deuterated ammonia to apply strong magnetic fields and measure polarization, gaining insight into matter's underlying structure.

SourceDOE/Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility·DateNov 29, 2016

Who knew? Ammonia-rich bird poop cools the atmosphere

Researchers from Colorado State University found that seabird guano emissions influence Arctic cloud properties and climate cooling. The study revealed a link between ammonia-rich bird poop and the formation of atmospheric aerosol particles, which can reflect sunlight back to space.

SourceColorado State University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 17, 2016

Which genes are crucial for the energy metabolism of Archaea?

A study on Nitrososphaera viennensis reveals that specific genes and adaptations enable terrestrial archaeal ammonia oxidizers to thrive. The research provides insights into the energy metabolism of Archaea and its implications for agricultural soils and potential medical applications.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 14, 2016
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.

Reducing ammonia pollution from cattle

A new study suggests that implementing techniques such as floor scraping, flushing with water, and using different types of flooring can reduce ammonia emissions from commercial dairy cattle barns by up to 50%. This reduction in pollution could have positive impacts on both the environment and human health.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateOct 19, 2016

A cooperative way to make ammonia

Bacterial nitrogenase produces ammonia by combining atmospheric nitrogen with protons and electrons, moving one electron at a time between symmetrical halves. The enzyme's two-stage engine works efficiently through complex communication between the two halves.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 4, 2016
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.

Dynamic duo: Biochemists describe cooperative halves of life-critical enzyme

A team of researchers from Utah State University and other institutions found that the two symmetrical halves of nitrogenase work together to regulate electron movements. This cooperative effort allows for more efficient conversion of nitrogen into ammonia, a crucial process for food production and energy development.

SourceUtah State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 3, 2016

Protein in, ammonia out

A recent study analyzed data from 25 previous studies to identify factors influencing ammonia emissions in dairy barns. Researchers found that reducing crude protein in a dairy cow's diet can significantly lower nitrogen excretion, resulting in reduced ammonia emissions. The study provides key information for farmers and farm advisers ...

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateJun 29, 2016

New radio map of Jupiter reveals what's beneath colorful clouds

Astronomers have produced the most detailed radio map yet of Jupiter's atmosphere, revealing massive movement of ammonia gas that underlies colorful bands and whirling clouds. The study sheds light on global circulation and cloud formation driven by Jupiter's internal heat source.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2016

Swirling ammonia lies below Jupiter's thick clouds

New observations reveal a widespread view of activity below Jupiter's clouds, including hot spots and dry regions devoid of clouds and condensable gases. The detected ammonia plumes swell up in wave patterns, suggesting motion deep within the atmosphere.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 2, 2016
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.

Agricultural ammonia emissions disrupt earth's delicate nitrogen balance

New research from Colorado State University finds that agricultural ammonia emissions now surpass fossil fuel combustion emissions as the dominant source of nitrogen cycle disturbance. Excess nitrogen in the atmosphere causes environmental impacts such as soil acidification and decreased biodiversity.

SourceColorado State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 9, 2016

Improving utilization of ammonia and carbon dioxide in microalgal cultivation

Algae farming is sensitive to fertilizer costs, with ammonia and carbon dioxide being major concerns. Approaches like increasing surface area, partial pressure, and contact time can improve nutrient utilization efficiency for CO2. Dosing ammonia at a controlled rate can minimize its volatility and toxicity.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Biotechnology·DateMay 2, 2016

NREL demonstrates light-driven process for enzymatic ammonia production

Scientists at NREL have developed a new process using light to reduce dinitrogen into ammonia, with rates of production similar to those of the ATP-dependent reaction. This method reduces energy requirements and emits no carbon dioxide, offering a more sustainable alternative to current industrial processes.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalScience·DateApr 26, 2016
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.

Study shows how to make fertilizer from sunlight

Scientists at NREL developed a new, light-driven chemical process to produce ammonia, the main ingredient of fertilizer. The research uses nanocrystals to harness light energy, which then energizes electrons to trigger nitrogen transformation.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience·DateApr 21, 2016

USU chemists shed new light on global energy, food supply challenge

Researchers at Utah State University and other institutions have developed a light-driven process for nitrogen fixation, which could revolutionize agriculture and reduce the world's dependence on fossil fuels. The new process uses nanomaterials to capture light energy, making it more energy-efficient than traditional methods.

SourceUtah State University·JournalScience·DateApr 21, 2016

Atmospheric sulfate particles reduced, but as acidic as ever

Researchers found that despite declining sulfur emissions, the acidity of sulfate particles remains unchanged in the Southeast US. The neutralizing ammonia emitted from agriculture and other sources forms an equilibrium with sulfates, reducing its ability to neutralize their acidity.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Geoscience·DateFeb 22, 2016

Researchers work on lowering greenhouse gas emissions from poultry houses

A research team led by Hong Li at the University of Delaware has found that adding alum to poultry litter can significantly reduce ammonia and greenhouse gas concentrations. This innovation helps control nutrient emissions, conserves energy, and improves animal welfare, making agriculture more sustainable.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateJan 12, 2016

Microbiologists discover enigmatic comammox microbes

Researchers identify a new type of bacteria, Nitrospira, capable of converting ammonia to nitrate through comammox process, revealing a long-sought organism in the nitrogen cycle. This discovery opens up new avenues for understanding the environment and wastewater treatment.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNature·DateNov 26, 2015
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.

Energy researchers discover new structure for bimetallic catalysts

Scientists at the University of Delaware have discovered a novel structure for bimetallic catalysts, which offer improved performance and ease of synthesis. The 'patched' surface exhibits dual active sites, enabling more efficient chemical reactions.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 7, 2015

Insights into catalytic converters

A team of scientists used X-ray spectroscopy to analyze the interactions between active metals and gas molecules in catalytic converters. They found that different materials exhibit unique reaction paths, which can help improve their efficiency and reduce pollutant emissions.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalChemical Communications·DateJul 24, 2015
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.

Low-grade waste heat regenerates ammonia battery

Researchers at Penn State have developed a thermally regenerative ammonia-based battery that converts low-grade waste heat into electricity with high efficiency. The battery can produce up to 60 watts per square meter of power, making it six to 10 times more efficient than other liquid-based thermal-electric energy conversion systems.

SourcePenn State·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateDec 3, 2014

Migrating animals' pee affects ocean chemistry

Researchers found that migrating animals release ammonia, which plays a significant role in shaping marine chemistry, particularly in low-oxygen zones. The study reveals that animal behavior on a large scale influences the ocean's chemistry, with implications for predicting ocean changes under climate change.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 9, 2014

Research clarifies health costs of air pollution from agriculture

Research clarifies that ammonia emissions from agricultural exports have a substantial impact on air quality, with the study estimating an annual health cost of $36 billion. The findings suggest that reducing ammonia emissions could lead to significant societal benefits, particularly in the Northeast and Great Lakes region.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 28, 2014

Researchers grow carbon nanofibers using ambient air, without toxic ammonia

Researchers from North Carolina State University have successfully grown vertically aligned carbon nanofibers using ambient air without toxic ammonia. This breakthrough enables the mass production of these nanofibers, which hold promise for various applications, including gene delivery tools, sensors, and batteries.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNanomaterials and Nanotechnology·DateMar 24, 2014

Glycerol phenylbutyrate reduces hepatic encephalopathy events

The study found that Glycerol phenylbutyrate significantly reduced hepatic encephalopathy events, hospitalizations, and ammonia levels compared to placebo. GPB's direct ammonia-lowering agent properties suggest its therapeutic potential for patients with cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy.

SourceWiley·JournalHepatology·DateFeb 25, 2014
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Drug shows early promise in treating seizures

A study published in Nature Medicine suggests a potential new treatment for seizures caused by high levels of ammonia in the blood. Bumetanide, a diuretic drug used to treat high blood pressure, has been found to restore normal electrical activity in the brains of mice with genetic metabolic disorders and prevent seizures.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalNature Medicine·DateNov 17, 2013

Unregulated, agricultural ammonia threatens national parks' ecology

Researchers find that US national parks are experiencing 'accidental fertilization' at or above critical thresholds due to nitrogen compounds carried on the wind. The team predicts significant increases in agricultural land and fertilizer use by 2050, requiring a 55% reduction of anthropogenic NH3 emissions.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalAtmospheric Chemistry and Physics·DateOct 10, 2013

Diamond catalyst shows promise in breaching age-old barrier

Researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a diamond catalyst that efficiently converts nitrogen to ammonia under ambient conditions. The new technique, which uses synthetic industrial diamond, reduces energy consumption by up to 2% compared to traditional methods.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Methods·DateJun 30, 2013

Canada's first liver cell transplant takes place in Calgary

Physicians at Alberta Children's Hospital successfully completed the world's first liver cell transplant on a Canadian baby with Urea Cycle Disorder, improving ammonia levels and buying time for a potential liver transplant. The procedure was performed as part of a research trial sponsored by Cytonet LLC.

SourceAlberta Health Services·DateNov 29, 2012
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

USDA patents method to reduce ammonia emissions

USDA researchers have developed a method to capture and recycle ammonia from livestock waste, reducing harmful emissions and concentrating nitrogen for fertilizer. The system uses gas-permeable membranes, achieving an average removal rate of 45-153 mg/liter per day.

SourceUnited States Department of Agriculture - Research, Education and Economics·DateNov 1, 2012

Jelly-like atmospheric particles resist chemical aging

Researchers at Harvard University found that certain atmospheric particles can resist chemical aging in a jelly-like phase, challenging current climate models. This discovery may impact the formation of clouds and light absorption.

SourceHarvard University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 16, 2012

Scientists study the catalytic reactions used by plants to split oxygen from water

Researchers at Georgia Tech discovered the importance of a hydrogen bonding water network in photosystem II, a critical step in photosynthesis. The study suggests that mimicking this process could provide new supplies of oxygen and hydrogen as a by-product of electricity production.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 2, 2012
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.

Improving logistics of biofuel raw materials

A new logistics model for biofuel raw materials is proposed by MSU researchers, utilizing regional biomass processing depots to process feedstocks before shipping to refineries. This approach aims to reduce transportation costs and distances, while providing economic benefits to farmers who own part of the depots.

SourceMichigan State University·DateFeb 17, 2012