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Researchers devise cheaper, faster way to continuously produce amines

North Carolina State University researchers have developed a faster and less expensive technique for producing hindered amines, a class of chemicals used in various products. The new method uses continuous flow reactor technologies to produce hindered amines within 30 minutes, with minimal byproducts.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 4, 2022

Rice process aims to strip ammonia from wastewater

Researchers create high-performance catalyst to pull ammonia and solid fertilizer from low-level nitrates in industrial wastewater, reducing carbon dioxide emissions. The process works at room temperature and under ambient pressure, with potential for decentralized ammonia production.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 2, 2022
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

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How equal charges in enzymes control biochemical reactions

A new study reveals that two equal charges in enzymes do not repel each other, but instead attract, facilitating chemical reactions. The researchers used protein crystallography to obtain a structural snapshot of the substrate before the reaction and found an attractive interaction between the enzyme and substrate.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2022

Cheaper hydrogen fuel cell could mean better green energy options

A new hydrogen fuel cell has been developed using an iron catalyst, which could make green energy more accessible and affordable. The innovation allows for a significant reduction in the cost of one of the primary components, making it a viable alternative to fossil fuels.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 25, 2022

Haber-Bosch at the atomic scale

Researchers have directly observed N2 adsorption and tunneling electron-induced desorption processes at the atomic scale using scanning tunneling microscopy. The study reveals dominant pairwise electrostatic interactions between K and N2, weakening the molecule bond towards dissociation in the Haber-Bosch synthesis.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 21, 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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Environmentally-friendly coatings

Researchers from Konstanz University have developed a new class of water-soluble catalysts that allow for the direct manufacturing of polyethylene dispersions in water. This breakthrough enables environmentally-friendly and emission-free production of plastic coatings, reducing energy consumption and pollution.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateApr 21, 2022

Ag3PO4 catalyst facilitates propylene oxide electrooxidation

Researchers developed an Ag3PO4 catalyst with high selectivity and activity for the electrooxidation of propylene into propylene oxide. The (100) facets of the Ag3PO4 cubes displayed superior catalytic activity due to the polarization of propylene, facilitating breaking of π bonding and C-O bond formation.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 18, 2022

Extract from a common kitchen spice could be key to greener, more efficient fuel cells

Researchers at Clemson University and SSSIHL discovered a novel way to combine curcumin and gold nanoparticles to create an electrode that efficiently converts ethanol into electricity. The discovery brings replacing hydrogen as a fuel cell feedstock one step closer, with potential applications in sensors and supercapacitors.

SourceClemson University·JournalNano Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 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.

Method efficiently breaks down plastic bottles into component parts

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a stable and selective catalyst for breaking down polyester-based plastics into their component parts. The method uses metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and requires only three components: plastic, hydrogen, and the catalyst.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2022

A sustainable photocatalytic method to introduce the pyridine and valuable functional groups into alkenes

A novel visible light-promoted transition-metal-free acetalation-pyridylation of alkenes has been developed, providing a sustainable way to introduce pyridine and valuable functional groups. The methodology enables diverse modifications of drugs with excellent functional group tolerance.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateApr 7, 2022

Research team from Goethe University discovers Achilles’ heel of dangerous hospital pathogen

A team from Goethe University has identified the spatial structure of the mannitol-synthesizing enzyme MtlD in Acinetobacter baumannii, which is crucial for its survival. This discovery could lead to the development of customized substances to inhibit the enzyme and combat this hospital pathogen.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2022
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.

The platinum riddle

Researchers have solved a long-standing puzzle in surface physics, explaining how individual atoms of a catalyst capture molecules to transform them. The breakthrough reveals that both the catalyst and its anchor material assume energetically unfavorable states for a short time to facilitate the reaction.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 2022

New strategy enables successive cleavage and functionalization of C–C bonds in alcohols

Researchers developed a novel protocol for the direct synthesis of amides via heterogeneous manganese oxide catalyzed successive cleavage and amidation of C-C bonds in alcohols. The method features good functional-group tolerance, cost-effective and recyclable catalyst, and broad substrate scope.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChem·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 1, 2022

Cheap, eco-friendly catalyst opens new possibilities for organic molecules built from pyruvate

Researchers develop an eco-friendly organic catalyst system that improves the production of organic molecules from pyruvate, a key biomolecule in metabolic pathways. The catalyst promotes reactions where pyruvate donates electrons to produce molecules like amino acids.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalOrganic Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 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.

Thomas Senftle wins NSF CAREER Award

Engineer Thomas Senftle at Rice University has won a prestigious NSF CAREER Award to improve catalysts through machine learning. He will develop open-source models to speed up the development of catalysts with optimized particle/support combinations, aiming to reduce unwanted molecules in water.

SourceRice University·DateMar 21, 2022

How a particular protein regulates up to two-thirds of the world’s methane emission: key mechanism for methane emission in anaerobic environments is now understood, potentially helping the fight against climate change.

Researchers have deciphered the activity of B12-dependent radical SAM enzymes, which regulate methane production by archaea. The study's findings have implications for biotechnologies that control key enzymatic events and could help reduce global warming.

SourceNagoya University·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateMar 17, 2022

Light elements make a difference in noble metal catalysis

Researchers have found that adding light elements like hydrogen, carbon, and boron to noble metal catalysts can significantly improve their activity and selectivity. This allows for novel effects in geometric and electronic modifications of noble metals.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateMar 16, 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.

Catalyst for a greener future

Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a novel catalytic technology that converts non-edible plants into renewable fuels, chemicals and plastics. By pulsing hydrogen gas on and off, they increase the population of active sites on catalysts, allowing reactions to occur up to 10 times faster.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 16, 2022

A fresh perspective on Picket-Spengler reaction with α-ketoesters as a new carbonyl source

Researchers from Nagoya Institute of Technology have successfully demonstrated the first enantioselective Pictet-Spengler reaction of acyclic α-ketoesters with tryptamines, achieving high yields and enantioselectivity. The study expands the scope of the process, which could accelerate drug development.

SourceNagoya Institute of Technology·JournalOrganic Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 16, 2022

KANPHOS: Newly developed database for kinase-associated protein phosphorylation eases neural signaling research

The newly developed KANPHOS database provides comprehensive information on kinase-associated protein phosphorylation, facilitating research into neural signaling pathways. The database contains information on phosphoproteins, phosphorylation sites, and participant kinases, allowing for searches based on various parameters.

SourceFujita Health University·JournalCells·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 16, 2022

Biotechnology: Enzymes in a cage

Scientists from Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have successfully embedded enzymes in metal-organic frameworks to enhance their stability. This innovation enables the use of these enzymes in both aqueous and organic solvents, leading to improved productivity and stability in continuous reactors.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 14, 2022
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.

Chemical reaction design goes virtual

A new virtual ligand-assisted screening method enables efficient searching of ligands for optimal catalysis, accelerating reaction design. By simplifying ligand description with two metrics, researchers identify promising ligands and focus on real testing.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalACS Catalysis·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 13, 2022

Study led by Wu Kai and Zhou Xiong published in Science to visualize on-surface ethylene polymerization

Researchers visualize ethylene polymerization on ordered iron carbide surface using in situ technology, revealing molecular insertion mechanism and chain initiation process. The study clarifies the scientific debate regarding chain initiation over Phillips catalysts and provides a method for controlling product chain length distribution.

SourcePeking University·JournalScience·DateMar 10, 2022

New research from Pusan National University sheds light on nature of friction in multi-layered graphene

A study by researchers at Pusan National University has investigated the relationship between surface structures and nanoscale friction in multi-layered CVD graphene. They found that only the top-most layer of graphene was twisted with respect to the rest, affecting layer-dependent nanoscale friction.

SourcePusan National University·JournalApplied Surface Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2022

Upcycling biomass waste into Fe single atom catalysts for pollutant control

Researchers have developed a sustainable methodology to utilize biomass waste for efficient remediation of antibiotic pollution. Fe-contaminated biomass waste ferns are used to synthesize highly active single atom catalysts, demonstrating an appealing strategy for pollutant control and other applications.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateMar 7, 2022

Novel enzyme catalyzing the formation of glycosidic bonds in complex sugar moieties characterized

Researchers have identified a novel enzyme that catalyzes the formation of glycosidic bonds in complex sugar moieties. The discovery provides fresh insights into carbohydrate metabolism and offers a breakthrough for the synthesis of sugar chains, which play key roles in various biological processes.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of Biological Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 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.

Breaking down how “single-atom” catalysts help remove organic pollutants

Researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University developed a simple synthesis method for iron-based single-atom catalysts that activate peroxymonosulfate to break down difficult-to-degrade pollutants. The team discovered two distinct chemical pathways involving 'high-spin' state iron sites, which interact with peroxymonosulfate to create r...

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 5, 2022

A ‘greener’ way to clean wastewater treatment filters

Scientists have created a 'greener' way to clean wastewater treatment filters by using glucose-based nanoparticles, which effectively remove contaminants without destroying the membrane. The new system is more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than traditional methods.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 2, 2022

Ethers may have a more sustainable future thanks to heterogenous catalysis

A zirconium oxide-supported platinum-molybdenum catalyst enables the selective conversion of esters into valuable unsymmetrical ethers under mild conditions. This process offers a sustainable solution for producing these compounds from renewable biomass-derived materials, reducing waste and energy consumption.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJACS Au·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2022

A new, inexpensive catalyst speeds the production of oxygen from water

Researchers at MIT have developed a new, inexpensive catalyst material that can produce oxygen from water, potentially replacing rare metals and reducing the cost of producing carbon-neutral fuels. The material, made of abundant components, allows for precise tuning and matches or exceeds the performance of conventional catalysts.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 25, 2022

Guidance from Hungarian chemists shapes the catalysts of the future

Researchers from Eötvös Loránd University have created a more efficient method for producing catalysts, which can speed up chemical transformations and reduce environmental impact. This breakthrough could lead to faster drug development and improved pesticide production.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalNature Catalysis·DateFeb 24, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Breaking the black box of catalytic reactions

Scientists have gained a new understanding of the atomic level interactions in complex catalysis, enabling more efficient and sustainable chemical production. Researchers used x-ray spectroscopy, machine learning analysis, and first principles calculations to model reactions and identify active site structures.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 24, 2022

Princeton Chemistry reports method for direct “uphill” isomerization of numerous olefin classes

Researchers at Princeton University have developed a method to generate less-stable olefins from internal olefins catalytically, utilizing photocatalysis and chromium co-catalysis. This innovation allows for the conversion of internal olefins into terminal olefins, which are useful starting points in various chemical processes.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 23, 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.

Metal mix and match: An unexpected discovery could improve the crystallinity of coordination nanosheets

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have discovered a method to improve the crystallinity of coordination nanosheets by mixing two metal ion solutions. This approach results in higher crystallinity and improved performance in devices such as electronics and batteries. The findings open a new pathway for tuning the functional pro...

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022

Innovative catalysts: An expert review

The review article discusses unconventional metal-based materials for electrocatalysis, including s-, d-, and f-block metals. It aims to accelerate research and development of novel, innovative catalyst materials for efficient green hydrogen production.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 16, 2022

Researchers realize photo-induced catalytic C-H heteroarylation of metallocenes

A team of scientists has successfully developed a photo-induced catalytic C-H heteroarylation method for ferrocenes and ruthenocenes, allowing for the creation of new pyridyl and pridonyl metallocenes. This protocol offers mild and concise conditions for functionalization, with significant implications for material science and catalysis.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateFeb 16, 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
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.

Scientists synthesize renewable nylon monomers with poplar wood

A research team at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics synthesized renewable nylon monomers from poplar wood using a Pd/C catalyst. The total carbon yield was found to be 39.2%, enabling further conversion to valuable chemicals.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChem Catalysis·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 14, 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.

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.

Steering conversion of CO2 and ethane to desired products

Researchers identify two key principles determining reaction specificity in converting CO2 and ethane into synthesis gas or ethylene. The formation energy of the bimetallic catalyst and binding energy between the catalyst and oxygen released from CO2 are crucial in driving reaction selectivity.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022

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
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.

Reusable catalyst makes C–H bond oxidation using oxygen easier and more efficient

Scientists from Tokyo Tech have developed a reusable catalyst for oxidative C–H functionalization, making the process faster and more efficient. The catalyst, murdochite-type Mg6MnO8 nanoparticles, can catalyze the selective oxidation of alkylarene compounds under mild reaction conditions.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 4, 2022

Chemists find path to cheap deployment of hydrogen fuel cells

Cornell University chemists have developed a class of nonprecious metal derivatives that can efficiently power cars and generate electricity with minimal greenhouse gas emissions. The breakthrough could enable wider deployment of hydrogen fuel cells, replacing combustion engines and reducing waste.

SourceCornell University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 3, 2022

The path to renewable fuel just got easier

A research team at PNNL has developed a system that converts waste carbon from sewage, food crops, and algae into fuels while removing impurities. The electrocatalytic oxidation fuel recovery system generates hydrogen to power its own operation, making it potentially carbon-neutral.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalApplied Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2022