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NTU Singapore scientists convert waste paper into battery parts for smartphones and electric vehicles

Researchers at Nanyang Technological University have developed a technique to convert waste paper into lithium-ion battery electrodes, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing durability. The new method uses carbonisation and laser cutting to create reusable batteries with superior properties.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

University of Missouri is helping the aviation industry go “green”

MU researchers, including Jay J. Thelen and Dong Xu, are exploring genetic modification to increase seed oil production in camelina and pennycress for biofuel use in the aviation industry. The team aims to create a sustainable 'green energy' source as an alternative to petroleum-based fossil fuels.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateNov 9, 2022

Assessing the environmental impact of future ‘Higgs factories’

Researchers assessing the environmental impact of future 'Higgs factories' propose a new figure of merit: carbon footprint per Higgs boson produced. Circular colliders emerge as a promising option due to their excellent physics capability and energy efficiency, which could significantly reduce the environmental cost.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Plus·DateOct 26, 2022

Creating carbon nanostructures using small organic molecules

Researchers at Tsinghua University Press developed a novel approach to create carbon nanostructures using heat transformation of small organic molecules into porous carbons. This technique eliminates the need for traditional polymer precursors, offering a precise and cost-effective method for producing these versatile materials.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateOct 24, 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.

Mexican mangroves have been capturing carbon for 5,000 years

Researchers have discovered that Mexican mangrove forests have been absorbing and storing carbon for an impressive 5,000 years. The study found that these unique ecosystems are capable of retaining large amounts of carbon due to the presence of certain microorganisms.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalMarine Ecology Progress Series·TypeObservational study·DateSep 16, 2022

Recycling greenhouse gases

The TU Wien team has created a catalyst that can convert CO2 and methane into synthesis gas without the formation of carbon nanotubes. This approach, called dry reforming, has the potential to convert climate-damaging greenhouse gases into valuable products.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalApplied Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2022

By design: from waste to next-gen carbon fiber

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a new type of lignin that can improve the strength and recyclability of carbon fibers. When combined with polyacrylonitrile, the lignin-based material has shown record-breaking tensile strength and enhanced mechanical properties.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2022

A simple, cheap material for carbon capture, perhaps from tailpipes

Researchers have created a cheap and energy-efficient way to capture carbon dioxide from smokestacks using porous melamine material. The process is simple to make and requires primarily off-the-shelf melamine powder, making it a promising solution for scaling down carbon emissions from vehicle exhaust or other movable sources.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2022
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.

Chemists create artificial protein that peers into Earth’s chemical past

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed an artificial protein that could provide new insights into chemical evolution on early Earth. The protein, inspired by a key enzyme in energy production, has been shown to build molecules one step at a time, shedding light on how organic chemistry matured on the planet.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 20, 2022

Novel compounds discovered in marine sponge can kill drug-resistant bacteria

Brazilian researchers have identified bioactive compounds in a marine sponge that killed antibiotic-resistant bacteria, paving the way to develop new drugs. The substances proved capable of eliminating bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, which are responsible for many hospital-acquired infections.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Natural Products·DateJul 13, 2022
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.

Found: The ‘holy grail of catalysis’ — turning methane into methanol under ambient conditions using light

Researchers have developed a novel process converting methane into liquid methanol at ambient temperature and pressure using visible light. The method uses a continuous flow of methane/oxygen-saturated water over a novel metal-organic framework (MOF) catalyst, achieving 100% selectivity with no by-products.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 30, 2022

When the world of nanotechnology and microbreweries meet

A Quebec research team has successfully synthesized carbon quantum dots from brewery waste, offering a biocompatible alternative to traditional materials. The eco-responsible approach uses microbrewery waste as a source material, reducing the need for pure chemicals and toxins.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalRSC Advances·DateJun 22, 2022

Textile filter testing shows promise for carbon capture

Researchers at NC State University developed a proposed new textile-based filter that combines cotton fabric and an enzyme called carbonic anhydrase to separate carbon dioxide from air and gas mixtures. The filter showed promising results, capturing up to 81.7% of CO2 with a double-stacked filter.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Chemists’ HAT trick for greener chemical synthesis

Researchers have found a way to perform hydrogen atom transfer reactions with fewer chemicals and less cost, making it more efficient for industrial and academic settings. The new method uses electrochemistry to create cobalt hydride catalysts, reducing the need for expensive oxidants and reductants.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 25, 2022

Carbon capture takes sponge-like form with new cost-effective method

Researchers have developed a new carbon capture method using sponge-like materials that can trap CO2 without degrading over time. The materials are made from sugar and low-cost alkali metal salts, making them a potentially cost-effective solution for reducing coal-fired power plant emissions.

SourceCornell University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMay 23, 2022
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.

Synthesis of two-dimensional holey graphyne

Researchers have successfully synthesized a new type of carbon allotrope called holey graphyne, which has semiconductor properties and can be used in various applications. The material was created using a bottom-up approach and consists of alternately linked benzene rings and C≡C bonds.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2022

“Spring-loaded” system pops phosphorus into molecular rings

MIT researchers devise a chemical reaction that allows them to synthesize phosphorus-containing rings using a novel spring-loaded molecule. This method enables the creation of useful compounds with potential applications in catalysts and pharmaceuticals.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 21, 2022
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.

Glowing spider fossils prompt breakthrough study of how they were preserved at Aix-en-Provence

Researchers at the University of Kansas discovered that microalgae-produced diatoms played a crucial role in preserving ancient spider fossils at Aix-en-Provence. The unique chemical process, similar to industrial vulcanization, stabilized carbon-based exoskeletons and promoted sulfurization, resulting in exceptional fossil preservation.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateApr 21, 2022

New polymer membrane tech improves efficiency of CO2 capture

Researchers develop new membranes to capture more efficient CO2 from mixed gases, addressing trade-off between permeability and selectivity. The technology increases CO2 selectivity by up to 150 times while retaining relative high permeability.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 1, 2022

A better way to separate gases

Researchers have developed a new type of membrane material that can significantly improve the efficiency of gas separation processes. The membranes, based on hydrocarbon ladder polymers, offer both high permeability and selectivity, making them outperform other polymer materials in many gas separations.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateMar 24, 2022

Quenching by laser increases graphene quality

Researchers found that laser-induced reduction of graphene oxide can produce high-quality graphene by reducing defects and improving lattice structure. At high temperatures, oxidation occurs near defects but is balanced by annealing in the center of the sheet, resulting in well-structured material.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalCarbon·DateMar 23, 2022
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.

Could we make cars out of petroleum residue?

Researchers at MIT have developed a way to create lightweight fibers out of petroleum residue, offering advantages over traditional carbon fiber materials. The new process uses heavy waste material left over from refining, reducing production costs and enabling the creation of load-bearing applications.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 18, 2022

Ultra-high-rate plasma coating to improve surface function

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology developed an ultra-high-rate coating technology for functional hard carbon films using vacuum plasma. The new method achieved a film deposition rate exceeding one order of magnitude faster than existing technologies while maintaining the same degree of film quality.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalJapanese Journal of Applied Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2022

Traces of life in the Earth's deep mantle

Researchers found variations in carbon isotopes in younger kimberlites, suggesting the Cambrian Explosion affected the Earth's lower mantle. The study suggests that changes in marine sediments leave profound traces on the Earth's interior.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 8, 2022
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.

Discovered: An easier way to create "flexible diamonds"

A team of scientists led by Samuel Dunning has developed an original technique to predict and guide the ordered creation of strong, yet flexible, diamond nanothreads. The innovation allows for easier synthesis of the material, which has potential applications in space elevators, ultra-strong fabrics, and other fields.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 2, 2022

CO2 recycling and efficient drug development—tackling two problems with one reaction

Scientists at Hokkaido University have developed an electrochemical method to recycle waste CO2 while producing molecules useful for drug development. The method utilizes an electron added to either the CO2 molecule or another molecule in the solution, making it easier to react with each other.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2022

Breakthrough in converting CO2 into fuel using solar energy

Researchers at Lund University have developed a way to convert carbon dioxide into fuel using solar energy, creating a potential solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The process uses advanced materials and ultra-fast laser spectroscopy, allowing for the conversion of CO2 to carbon monoxide.

SourceLund University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 16, 2022

Rare earth elements await in waste

Rice University scientists have developed a method to extract rare earth elements from fly ash, bauxite residue, and electronic waste using flash Joule heating. This process improves yields and reduces the use of strong acids, making it a more sustainable solution for recycling these materials.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 9, 2022
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.

Stanford engineers create catalyst that can turn carbon dioxide into gasoline 1,000 times more efficiently

Researchers at Stanford University have created a new catalyst that can convert carbon dioxide into gasoline up to 1,000 times more efficiently than existing standards. The breakthrough allows for the production of long-chain hydrocarbons, making it easier to handle and store, with potential applications in a carbon-neutral cycle.

SourceStanford University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

Pusan National University scientists enhance durability of lithium-sulfur batteries with dyes

Researchers developed a novel coating material based on methylene blue dye to mitigate the polysulfide shuttling effect in lithium-sulfur batteries, improving their durability and electrochemical performance. This breakthrough could lead to the widespread adoption of sustainable energy storage systems.

SourcePusan National University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

Remote sensing technology reduces urban air pollution

A new study found that Hong Kong's remote sensing enforcement program significantly reduced harmful chemicals at the roadside and in the atmosphere. The program led to a 22-39% reduction in total hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, and nitric oxide emissions from high-emitting vehicles.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 2, 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.

Machine learning fine-tunes flash graphene

Rice University scientists employ machine-learning techniques to streamline the process of synthesizing graphene from waste through flash Joule heating. The lab used its custom optimization model to improve graphene crystallization from four starting materials over 173 trials.

SourceRice University·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2022

University of Delaware professors elected AAAS Fellows

University of Delaware professors Wei-Jun Cai and David Kirchman have been named AAAS Fellows for their important contributions to STEM fields. Cai was recognized for his work on the global carbon cycle and ocean acidification, while Kirchman was honored for his research on marine biosciences and microbial ecology.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateJan 26, 2022

Confined Ni–In intermetallic alloy nanocatalyst for methane dry reforming

Researchers have developed a new nanocatalyst for the dry reforming of methane, overcoming coking resistance with its confined core-shell structure. The catalyst's superior carbon resistance is attributed to the confinement and electron transfer between In and Ni.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateJan 20, 2022

Overcoming a bottleneck in carbon dioxide conversion

A team of researchers at MIT has identified and modeled a major reason for poor performance in electrochemical carbon dioxide conversion systems, which is caused by a local depletion of CO2 gas near the electrodes. By pulsing the current off and on, they can replenish the gas levels, allowing the process to continue efficiently.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalLangmuir·DateJan 11, 2022
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.

New computational approach predicts chemical reactions at high temperatures

A new computational method has been developed to accurately predict oxide reactions at high temperatures, even without experimental data. This approach combines quantum mechanics with machine learning to design clean carbon-neutral processes for steel production and metal recycling.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 1, 2021

Reshaping the plastic lifecycle into a circle

A new study led by the University of Pittsburgh reveals that 360 million metric tonnes of new plastic were produced in 2018, with only 9% being recycled. The research found that the greenhouse gas emissions associated with plastic production are staggering, accounting for 350 million metric tonnes of CO2 equivalent.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateNov 30, 2021

New technique improves conversion of carbon dioxide into liquid fuels

Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed a new approach to modify the surface of copper catalysts, improving the conversion of carbon dioxide into useful fuels. The technique involves coating the copper with thin films of ionomers, which steer the reaction towards generating carbon-rich products.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021
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.

Finding the missing piece in global oil life-cycle assessment

A new study by University of Pittsburgh researchers links econometric models with production profitability to predict the impact of demand shocks on carbon intensity. Small shocks are predicted to displace heavy crudes with higher carbon intensity, but the relation may be counterintuitive.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature·DateNov 16, 2021

Carbon dioxide cold traps on the moon are confirmed for the first time

Researchers have confirmed the existence of lunar carbon dioxide cold traps that could contain solid carbon dioxide, a key resource for sustaining robot or human presence on the moon. The discovery has major implications for future lunar exploration and international policy.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateNov 15, 2021

Microorganisms produce elemental carbon

Researchers discovered that certain microorganisms can form elemental carbon without high temperatures and pressures, challenging current scientific understanding. The formation of this carbon is believed to be linked to the symbiotic relationship between archaea and their partners.

SourceMARUM - Center for Marine Environmental Sciences, University of Bremen·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 27, 2021
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.

New theories and materials aid the transition to clean energy

Researchers at Arizona State University explore alternative approaches to catalysis, a chemical process crucial for industrial applications. The study aims to develop synthetic catalysts that can improve on nature's designs, leading to the production of carbon-neutral fuels.

SourceArizona State University·JournalChem Catalysis·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 14, 2021

Simple method for converting carbon dioxide into useful compounds

Scientists at Kyoto University have created a simple method to convert CO2 into metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), offering a promising approach to dispose of the greenhouse gas. The new technique, which requires lower temperatures and pressures, demonstrates potential for widespread adoption and could help mitigate global warming.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 5, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

New tool for energy sector models carbon capture incentives

A new model, developed by Carnegie Mellon University researchers, identifies coal- and natural gas-fired electricity generation plants suitable for carbon capture technologies. The tool takes into account various factors like plant age, efficiency, location, and technology to explore optimal CO2 reduction strategies at an affordable cost.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalInternational Journal of Greenhouse Gas Control·DateOct 5, 2021

An X-ray view of carbon

A team of scientists has developed a new X-ray measurement method that can analyze the chemical properties of warm dense matter, a state found in planetary interiors. The method uses the strongest X-ray laser to probe carbon's bonding states, providing new insights into planetary formation and potential applications in materials science.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateOct 5, 2021

Carbon dioxide reactor makes Martian fuel

Engineers at the University of Cincinnati have developed a carbon dioxide reactor that can convert CO2 into methane, a potential fuel source for Mars. The process, known as the Sabatier reaction, could reduce fuel needs by half for astronauts returning to Earth, making it a promising solution for future Mars missions.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 23, 2021