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Scientists build robot to track plant-fungal trade networks, revealing nature’s underground supply chains

Researchers discovered that fungi construct a lace-like mycelial network that moves carbon outward from plant roots in a wave-like formation. The team used advanced robotics to measure traffic flows and resource trading in the fungal road system, shedding light on how these networks regulate ecosystem function.

SourceSPUN (Society for the Protection of Underground Networks)·JournalNature·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 26, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Graphite production gets a makeover

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a new catalytic graphitization technology to convert petroleum coke into graphite, reducing emissions and cost associated with conventional synthetic graphite production. The process uses lower temperatures and shorter times, making it more sustainable and efficient.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateFeb 13, 2025
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.

Sliding into novel materials: A new frontier in material science

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a method to transform graphite into novel materials with controlled atomic layers, enabling the creation of tiny electronic memory units. This process, known as 'Slidetronics,' allows for precise manipulation of material properties, opening doors to innovative applications in electronic...

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalNature Reviews Physics·DateFeb 5, 2025
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.

Bridging a gap in carbon removal strategies

A new Stanford study suggests refining how we assess natural carbon storage strategies to ensure the technology lives up to its potential as a climate change solution. The researchers propose a two-step evaluation process to unlock additional project value and improve data for predictive modeling.

SourceStanford Woods Institute for the Environment·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·DateFeb 4, 2025
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.

Bacteria found to eat forever chemicals — and even some of their toxic byproducts

A University at Buffalo-led team has identified a strain of bacteria that can break down and transform at least three types of PFAS, as well as some of the toxic byproducts of the bond-breaking process. The bacteria, Labrys portucalensis F11, metabolized over 90% of perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) after a 100-day exposure period.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 2025

Direct discharge electrical pulses for carbon fiber recycling

Researchers developed a novel method for carbon fiber recycling that leverages Joule heat generation, thermal stress, and expansion forces to separate fibers without chemicals. The technique is more effective than traditional methods, preserving longer fibers with higher strength and reducing environmental impact.

SourceWaseda University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 14, 2025
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Harnessing microwave flow reaction to convert biomass into useful sugars

Kyushu University researchers create a microwave flow reaction device that converts complex polysaccharides into simple monosaccharides, producing glucose. The device utilizes a continuous-flow hydrolysis process, where cellobiose is passed through a sulfonated carbon catalyst heated using microwaves.

SourceKyushu University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2025
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Young exoplanet’s atmosphere unexpectedly differs from its birthplace

Researchers have discovered a mismatched composition of gases in the planet's atmosphere compared to gases within the disk. The study found that the ratio of carbon and oxygen gases in the planet is much lower than expected, suggesting that current models of planet formation may be too simplified.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeObservational study·DateDec 18, 2024

The high cost of carbon

A new study by University of California, Davis, found that the current estimate of the social cost of carbon is too low, increasing to over $280 per ton of CO2 emitted. This higher estimate reflects the impact of climate change on human welfare, including economic growth and unique natural systems.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 17, 2024
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.

Tiny poops in the ocean may help solve the carbon problem

A Dartmouth-led study suggests using clay to convert CO2 into food for zooplankton, which expel it as carbon-filled feces in the deep sea. This method accelerates the ocean's natural cycle for removing carbon from the atmosphere.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 10, 2024

Research shows feasting fungi could revolutionize carbon-fiber recycling

Researchers have developed a biotechnological process to break down and remove the matrix from carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRPs), recovering valuable chemicals. Genetically modified fungi feed on benzoic acid produced during breakdown, yielding the compound OTA with potential medical applications.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 10, 2024

New concept for sustainable fuel cell polymer electrolytes overcomes barriers in high-temperature, low-humidity use, advancing net-zero carbon goals

Researchers at Nagoya University have developed a novel fuel cell electrolyte concept using phosphonic acid polymers with hydrocarbon spacers. The new membrane exhibits improved water insolubility, chemical stability and conductivity under high-temperature and low-humidity conditions.

SourceNagoya University·JournalACS Applied Polymer Materials·DateDec 10, 2024

A new catalyst can turn methane into something useful

A new catalyst converts methane into polymers at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, making it easier to deploy at sites of methane production. The catalyst also enables the creation of sealants to heal cracks in natural gas pipes, potentially reducing methane leakage.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Catalysis·DateDec 4, 2024
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.

Revolutionizing carbon materials: Engineered biochar for a greener future

Researchers developed engineered biochar with enhanced properties for environmental remediation and energy storage. The study highlights the potential of biochar in soil amendment, water purification, supercapacitors, and batteries, but also identifies challenges such as complex biomass composition and lack of standardized protocols.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 29, 2024

Harnessing multi-element perovskites as catalysts for selective oxidation of light alkanes

Researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo successfully developed a multi-element perovskite catalyst that selectively oxidizes light alkanes to alcohols with high yield and selectivity. The breakthrough catalyst operates under mild conditions and exhibits excellent stability and reusability.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2024

SMART researchers pioneer method to detect dehydration in plants

A new COF sensor can detect pH changes in plant xylem tissues, providing early warning of drought stress up to 48 hours before traditional methods. This technology enables timely detection and management of drought stress, optimizing crop production and yield.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 24, 2024

How can electrons can split into fractions of themselves?

Physicists at MIT have made a breakthrough discovery that sheds light on the conditions that lead to exotic electronic states in graphene and other two-dimensional systems. Through calculations, they show that pentalayer graphene can exhibit fractional charge without a magnetic field.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 19, 2024
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.

MIT engineers make converting CO2 into useful products more practical

Researchers created a new electrode design that increases the efficiency of converting CO2 into ethylene, a valuable chemical product. The electrochemical system can now be scaled up for industrial applications without significant energy or cost losses.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 13, 2024

Two hundred times better catalysts thanks to carbon

Scientists have discovered that adding carbon to metal nanoparticles makes them 200 times more active, which could lead to significant cost savings and improved efficiency in industrial processes. The discovery was made possible by precise measurements and simulations of the interaction between metal nanoparticles and a carbon substrate.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalACS Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 11, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Domino effect in the Amazon region

A new study reveals that the Amazon rainforest is threatened by global warming and deforestation, which can trigger a domino effect on the entire system. The analysis of residual pollen and carbon residues suggests that the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) plays a crucial role in shaping the Amazon ecosystem.

SourceMARUM - Center for Marine Environmental Sciences, University of Bremen·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 4, 2024
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.

Plant CO2 uptake rises by nearly one third in new global estimates

Scientists estimate a 31% increase in global photosynthesis due to rising CO2 levels, with pan-tropical rainforests accounting for the largest difference. This improvement can enhance climate predictions and highlight the importance of natural carbon sequestration.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 21, 2024

UCLA engineers develop scalable process to decarbonize cement production

Researchers developed a new approach called ZeroCAL, which can remove nearly all carbon dioxide emissions associated with cement production. The process uses limestone as a feedstock and produces clean hydrogen and oxygen gas, making it an elegant solution to reduce carbon footprint.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

Fluorescent molecules to illuminate life: simplified synthesis with formaldehyde

A research team has developed a simplified synthesis method for organic fluorophores using formaldehyde, reducing molecular size and increasing atomic efficiency. The new technique can also be applied to in vivo environments, showing promise for life sciences research and diagnostics applications.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateSep 30, 2024
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Scientists discover a single-electron bond in a carbon-based compound

Researchers from Hokkaido University have discovered a stable single-electron covalent bond between two carbon atoms, validating a century-old theory and paving the way for further exploration of this type of bonding. The discovery was made using X-ray diffraction analysis and Raman spectroscopy.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2024

Mars’ missing atmosphere could be hiding in plain sight

Researchers propose that Mars' early thick atmosphere could have been locked up in the planet's clay surface due to slow chain reactions between rocks and gases. The clay is estimated to hold up to 80% of the initial, early atmosphere, potentially recovered and converted into propellant for future missions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 25, 2024

Organic matter on Mars was formed from atmospheric formaldehyde

Researchers at Tohoku University created a detailed model of organic matter production in ancient Martian atmosphere, suggesting that formaldehyde contributed to formation of organic matter. The study found that the depletion of 13C in organic matter on Mars was due to photodissociation of CO2 by solar ultraviolet radiation.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 19, 2024

Using sunlight to turn two greenhouse gases into valuable chemicals

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.

SourceMcGill University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 16, 2024
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.

Development strategies for using carbon-based catalysts in CO2 conversion

Researchers at Tsinghua University Press have developed effective synthesis strategies using carbon-based catalysts for converting CO2 into valuable chemicals and fuels. The team has designed various catalytic materials, including carburized iridium oxide nanorods, to enhance the activity of catalysts and selectivity of formate.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalCarbon Future·DateSep 12, 2024

World’s strongest battery paves way for light, energy-efficient vehicles

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have created a world-leading structural battery that can halve the weight of laptops and make mobile phones as thin as credit cards. The battery has increased its stiffness, allowing it to be used in vehicles, increasing their driving range by up to 70 percent on a single charge.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2024
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.

Achieving a supercapacitor through the 'molecular coating' approach

Researchers at Tohoku University have successfully increased capacitor capacity by 2.4 times using a molecular coating method, improving its performance and lifespan. The new technology utilizes inexpensive activated carbon and can store large amounts of energy, making it suitable for next-generation energy devices.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateSep 4, 2024
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.

Urban concrete mines

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a method to combine old concrete with carbon dioxide to create a new, durable material called calcium carbonate concrete. The process involves grinding the old concrete into powder, reacting it with CO2 from the air, and then heating it to form the new block.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Advanced Concrete Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 7, 2024

New humidity-driven membrane to remove carbon dioxide from the air

A new ambient-energy-driven membrane has been developed by Newcastle University researchers to capture carbon dioxide from the air, overcoming energy and kinetic challenges. The membrane uses naturally occurring humidity differences to pump carbon dioxide out of the air.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 19, 2024
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.

Scientists bridge the 'valley of death' for carbon capture technologies

A team of scientists from Heriot-Watt University has developed an AI-powered platform called PrISMa to accelerate the discovery of top-performing materials for carbon capture applications. The platform uses advanced simulations and machine learning to identify cost-effective and sustainable material-capture process combinations.

SourceHeriot-Watt University·JournalNature·DateJul 17, 2024