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Important milestone on the way to transition metal catalysis with aluminum

Researchers at the University of Freiburg have successfully synthesized the cationic low-valent aluminum complex [Al(AlCp*)3]+, which exhibits ambiphilic reactivity. This breakthrough brings us closer to developing catalysts using abundant and earth-abundant metal like aluminum, potentially replacing expensive transition metals.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Chemistry·DateAug 12, 2022

Engineering enzymes to help solve the planet’s plastic problem

Researchers developed a new enzyme that can degrade poly(ethylene) terephthalate (PET), a common plastic used in bottles. The enzyme, HotPETase, is thermostable and selectively breaks down PET, offering a potential solution to the global plastic waste challenge.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Catalysis·DateAug 11, 2022

Building the best zeolite

Researchers have developed new methods to prepare state-of-the-art zeolites with nano-sized dimensions and hierarchical structures, critical for industrial applications. The findings emphasize the importance of smaller size and structure in determining performance.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Synthesis·DateAug 11, 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.

New magnesium superionic conductor towards lithium-free solid-state batteries

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science create a metal–organic framework-based magnesium ion conductor showing superionic conductivity at room temperature, overcoming the limitations of magnesium ion-based energy devices. The novel Mg2+ electrolyte exhibits a high conductivity of 10−3 S cm−1, making it suitable for battery applica...

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2022

Three strikes and acid is out

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new protocol for synthesizing dialkyl ethers using three catalysts that hydroxylate alkenes quickly and cheaply. This method enables the precise control of electrons and protons to convert unactivated alkenes into reactive carbocation equivalents under mild reaction conditions.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2022

Molybdenum caught holding the hydrogen

Researchers at KAUST have found that molybdenum plays a central role in electrochemical hydride transfer, a process for producing valuable chemicals or carbon-free fuels. The discovery could enable more sustainable production of sustainable fuels and chemicals.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Catalysis·DateAug 2, 2022

Developing tech to eliminate ‘forever chemicals’ from water

Engineers at UIC have been awarded a grant to build a system that selectively removes and destroys PFAS, commonly called 'forever chemicals,' from industrial and municipal wastewaters. The team will develop a prototype of their system and deploy it for scale-up and pilot testing in California's Orange County Water District.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·DateAug 1, 2022

3D Tetris: Researchers are teaching computers to predict efficient catalysis

Researchers from Aarhus and Berlin have developed an algorithm that can predict how complex molecules will bind to the surface of catalysts. This is achieved through a machine-learning approach inspired by 3D Tetris, allowing computers to quickly identify promising catalysts.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Computational Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 28, 2022
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New catalyst leads to more efficient butadiene production

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new catalyst to improve butane conversion into butadiene, increasing efficiency and reducing byproducts. The breakthrough could make butadiene production more commercially viable and address the growing demand-supply imbalance.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2022

Rice improves catalyst that destroys ‘forever chemicals’ with sunlight

Researchers created a composite of boron nitride and titanium dioxide that harnesses UV-A energy to break apart PFOA molecules in water, degrading 99% of the pollutant in less than three hours. The catalyst is more efficient than existing methods, offering new hope for removing PFOA from drinking water.

SourceRice University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 2022

Towards High-Quality Manganese Oxide Catalysts with Large Surface Areas

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a novel synthesis procedure to produce high-quality manganese oxide nanoparticles with large surface areas. The new approach enables the creation of ultra-small nanoparticles with excellent catalytic performance, outperforming previously reported methods.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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Nonthermal plasma-promoted CO2 hydrogenation in presence of alloy catalysts

Researchers from Tokyo Tech investigated nonthermal plasma-promoted CO2 hydrogenation on Pd2Ga/SiO2 catalysts, revealing a more than two-fold increase in CO2 conversion compared to thermal methods. The study provides mechanistic insights into the NTP-activated species and metallic catalyst interaction.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 22, 2022

At the water’s edge: Self-assembling 2D materials at a liquid–liquid interface

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science create new method for producing heterolayer coordination nanosheets with improved properties and controllability. The study expands the diversity of 2D materials, enabling potential applications in optoelectronics and renewable energy.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022

Third-highest oxidation state secures rhodium a place on the podium

Researchers have successfully isolated and characterized rhodium(VII), the third-highest oxidation state of an element, using advanced ion trap technology. This discovery has significant implications for understanding exotic transition metal oxides and potential applications in materials science.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 14, 2022

Crystal phase engineering offers glimpse of future potential, researchers say

Researchers summarize their work on crystal phase engineering for electrocatalysts, exploring how atomic arrangements influence properties and performance. The study suggests that manipulating atoms to form new lattices can lead to better electrocatalysis, paving the way for sustainable energy conversion processes.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateJul 14, 2022
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Single atom-based catalysts for electrochemical CO2 reduction

Researchers developed single atom-based catalysts for electrochemical CO2 reduction, overcoming challenges in stable C-O bonds and hydrogen evolution reactions. The study highlights the potential of these catalysts for converting CO2 into fuels and chemicals using renewable energy.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateJul 12, 2022

New iron catalyst could – finally! – make hydrogen fuel cells affordable

Researchers at the University at Buffalo have developed an efficient and durable iron-based catalyst that can be used in hydrogen fuel cells. The catalyst, combined with nitrogen and carbon, overcomes the limitations of platinum-based catalysts and could make fuel cells more affordable for commercial use.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalNature Energy·DateJul 7, 2022

Technologies boost potential for carbon dioxide conversion to useful products

Metal-organic frameworks based catalysts offer an alternative to traditional catalysts for hydrogenation of carbon dioxide. Researchers have systematically reviewed various metal-organic frameworks based catalysts for selective hydrogenation of carbon dioxide, identifying their potential in future applications.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateJul 1, 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.

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

Improving hydrogen peroxide production through sustainable photocatalysis

Researchers at Shanghai Jiao Tong University developed a new method to prolong the lifetime of hot electrons, allowing for more efficient hydrogen peroxide production using solar light. The combination of rutile titanium dioxide and graphene forms an elevated Schottky barrier, facilitating hot electron injection and preventing backflow.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateJun 28, 2022

Novel catalyst radically enhances rate of conversion of CO2 into solar fuels

Researchers developed a novel photocatalyst structure using isolated single atoms of copper in a polymer framework, significantly enhancing catalyst performance for converting CO2 into methane fuel. This breakthrough offers a promising solution for addressing climate change by providing a carbon-neutral alternative to fossil fuels.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateJun 28, 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.

Researchers reveal oxygenate-based routes in syngas conversion over oxide-zeolite bifunctional catalysts

A research team discovered oxygenate-based routes in syngas conversion over oxide-zeolite (OXZEO) bifunctional catalysts using solid-state Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR). The study revealed the mechanistic difference between OXZEO and traditional zinc oxide and zeolite catalysts.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 23, 2022

Process to customize molecules does double duty

Researchers at Rice University have developed a chemical process that can add two distinct functional groups to single alkenes, a breakthrough in drug design and materials science. The process uses manganese catalysts and photocalysts to enable radical ligand transfer, allowing for the creation of unique molecules.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 22, 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.

Controlled fabrication of multimetallic building blocks for hybrid nanomaterials

A research team from Tokyo University of Science has developed a new method to create copolymers with different metal species, which have potential uses in catalysis and drug discovery. The technique allows for controlling the composition of metal species in the resulting polymer.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalChemical Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2022

Double-layered catalyst generates more hydrogen

A new double-layered catalyst, combining platinum with NiFe hydroxide, was developed to enhance hydrogen generation efficiency. The catalyst's activity is 11.2 times higher than conventional materials, making it a promising solution for increasing green hydrogen production.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 14, 2022

Chemists develop new multi-component reaction

Chemists have successfully developed a new multi-component reaction involving ketyl radicals and palladium catalysis, enabling the rapid production of complex structures in a single step. This approach is considered environmentally friendly and has potential for further unforeseen synthetic transformations.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Synthesis·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 2022

Catalyst from hot water

A research team led by Miriam Unterlass successfully produced a hybrid material that combines organic and inorganic substances in a single process. The method uses hot water instead of toxic solvents, creating a reusable catalyst with potential applications in pharmaceuticals.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·TypeNews article·DateJun 13, 2022

Chung-Ang University researchers develop novel heterostructure catalyst for effective hydrogen generation from water splitting

Scientists at Chung-Ang University have created a new catalyst that can efficiently generate hydrogen from water without the need for expensive noble metals. The innovative heterostructured material boosts both the half-reactions, improving its overall performance and paving the way for large-scale industrial applications.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 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.

New eco-friendly synthesis method uses alumina as a recyclable catalyst

Researchers developed a sustainable method of synthesizing diphenylmethanol derivatives using Chinese alumina, reducing waste and costs. The new method recycles alumina by washing it with water and drying between usages, making it an environmentally friendly alternative.

SourceKobe University·JournalChemistryOpen·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 10, 2022

Hydrogen peroxide from tea and coffee residue: New pathway to sustainability

A team of scientists at Tokyo University of Science has successfully produced hydrogen peroxide using spent coffee grounds and tea leaf residue. The new method, which is simple, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly, opens up new applications for unused biomass resources.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalACS Omega·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2022

Organic water splitters get a boost

A KAUST-led team developed organic semiconductor-based photocatalysts to store solar energy as clean hydrogen fuel. These catalysts can absorb visible light and generate long-lived charges, improving efficiency for hydrogen evolution.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Energy·DateJun 9, 2022
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.

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

Liquid platinum at room temperature

Researchers use trace amounts of liquid platinum to create efficient chemical reactions at low temperatures, extending earth's reserves and offering CO2 reduction solutions. The liquid catalyst is over 1,000 times more efficient than its solid-state rival.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2022

Smog clears on car exhaust catalyst design

Researchers at KAUST developed a new exhaust catalyst concept that can effectively remove NOx from vehicle emissions, resolving an ongoing debate over additive atoms in the catalyst mix. The team identified the ideal atomic recipe to catalytically remove NOx from diesel car tailpipes.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 5, 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.

Iron catalyst could make important chemical reactions cheaper and more eco-friendly

Researchers have designed an iron catalyst to facilitate the olefin metathesis reaction, a widely applicable catalytic reaction for carbon-carbon double bond formation. The iron-based catalyst shows promise in reducing costs and environmental impact compared to traditional ruthenium-based catalysts.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 2022

Study reveals nature of five-coordinated aluminum on γ-Al2O3 surface

Researchers used ultrahigh-field NMR spectroscopy to study the structure of Al(V) on γ-Al2O3. They found flexible structural features and hydroxyl groups that can be removed under high-temperature dehydration, leading to surface reconstruction. Most Al(V) species aggregate into domains rather than forming tetragonal pyramids.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalACS Central Science·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJun 1, 2022
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.

New artificial enzyme breaks down tough, woody lignin

A new artificial enzyme has successfully degraded lignin, a stubborn polymer in woody plants, offering hope for developing a new renewable energy source. The enzyme, developed by mimicking natural enzymes that break down lignin in nature, shows promise for producing valuable products from lignin.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2022

Light instead of electricity: A new kind of “green hydrogen”

Scientists at TU Wien have developed a new photocatalyst design that can split water into hydrogen and oxygen using sunlight. This process, called photocatalytic water splitting, has the potential to produce environmentally friendly 'green hydrogen' with higher efficiency than traditional electrolysis methods.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalACS Catalysis·DateMay 31, 2022

Cross-coupling ketones: Adding flexibility to the synthetic chemistry toolbox

Researchers from Prof. Martin's group at ICIQ develop a new strategy to create organic molecules of pharmacological interest using ketones as alkyl cross-coupling synthons. The method provides flexibility and mild reaction conditions, making it suitable for the synthesis of various organic molecules.

SourceInstitute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 30, 2022
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.

New light-powered catalysts could aid in manufacturing

Researchers at MIT have designed a new type of photoredox catalyst that can be used to coat plastic tubing and perform chemical transformations on reactants as they flow through the tube. This breakthrough could enable the use of light-driven reactions in manufacturing processes, increasing efficiency and reducing waste.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 27, 2022

A unique catalyst paves the way for plastic upcycling

A team of researchers has developed a unique catalyst that breaks down plastics into valuable molecules at an increased rate without sacrificing desirable product chains. The catalyst's activity and selectivity can be independently controlled, allowing for faster and more efficient plastic upcycling processes.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 26, 2022

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

New tech aims to drive down costs of hydrogen fuel

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new technique for extracting hydrogen gas from liquid carriers, making it faster, less expensive and more energy efficient. The new method uses sunlight and a reusable photocatalyst to release hydrogen molecules, reducing the need for rhodium and lowering production costs.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalChemSusChem·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2022
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.

Broadening the scope of epoxide ring opening reactions with zirconocene

Researchers at Waseda University demonstrate a novel zirconocene-catalyzed epoxide ring-opening reaction under visible light, expanding the reaction scope and regioselectivity. The approach enables accessible synthesis of elusive alcohol products with improved efficiency and environmental sustainability.

SourceWaseda University·JournalChem·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022

Sparking sustainable new chemical catalysts

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have discovered a new catalyst, tungsten oxide, that can efficiently convert carbon dioxide into useful fuels and chemicals. This breakthrough could lead to a significant reduction in global warming by utilizing hydrogen produced from renewable energy sources.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 18, 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.

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

Microbial juggling

Researchers discovered a soil microbe's enzyme that converts CO2 into carbon compounds 20 times faster than plant enzymes during photosynthesis. The enzyme uses pairs of molecules working in sync like jugglers, with a spot of molecular glue and twisting motion facilitating the reaction.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalACS Central Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2022

Machine learning framework IDs targets for improving catalysts

A new machine-learning framework has been developed to improve the design of catalysts, which speed up chemical reactions. The approach analyzes the conversion of carbon monoxide to methanol using a copper-based catalyst and identifies key steps that need to be tweaked to increase productivity.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalCatalysis Science & Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 10, 2022

Crystal study may resolve DNA mystery

A study by Rice University bioscientists has revealed the presence of a central metal ion critical to DNA replication and implicated in misincorporation. The research found that three metal ions are involved in the process, with the first supporting nucleotide binding and the second stabilizing the binding of loose nucleotides. This di...

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

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Energy researchers invent chameleon metal that acts like many others

Energy researchers have invented a device that electronically converts one metal into behaving like another to use as a catalyst for speeding chemical reactions. The invention opens the door for new catalytic technologies using non-precious metal catalysts, potentially improving efficiency and sustainability in various applications.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 9, 2022

Step toward a circular economy?

Researchers have discovered a zirconium-based metal–organic framework material that catalyzes the degradation of PET into its monomers. This process can be reused to make high-value PET products, enabling the development of a circular economy. The catalyst breaks down PET waste at 260°C with yields up to 98%

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022