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'Defective' carbon simplifies hydrogen peroxide production

Researchers created a 'defective' catalyst that simplifies the generation of hydrogen peroxide from oxygen, with 100% Faradaic efficiency. The process is simpler and cheaper than existing methods, with potential to replace expensive and toxic chemicals in various industries.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Catalysis·DateFeb 9, 2021

Understanding catalytic couplings: not all synergies are simple

Researchers have discovered three undesired off-cycle pathways in nickel-catalysed Negishi cross-coupling reactions, including ligand scavenging, reduction-oxidation pathways and the formation of unorthodox Ni/Zn clusters. The study provides a new understanding of the inner workings of these reactions.

SourceInstitute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)·JournalNature Catalysis·DateFeb 8, 2021
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Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

At the core of the Integrator complex

The Galej group has discovered the structure and arrangement of the proteins comprising Integrator's catalytic core, revealing a network of multiple subunits interacting with each other. This complex is involved in the transcription attenuation process and plays a crucial role in regulating gene expression.

SourceEuropean Molecular Biology Laboratory·JournalMolecular Cell·DateFeb 5, 2021

Nickel phosphide nanoparticle catalyst is the full package

Researchers at Osaka University have developed a stable and reusable nickel phosphide nanoparticle catalyst that exhibits high activity and selectivity in the hydrogenation of glucose to sorbitol. The catalyst produces D-sorbitol with yields over 99%, making it suitable for sustainable, low-cost production in various industries.

SourceOsaka University·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateFeb 4, 2021

Thanks to machine learning, the future of catalyst research is now!

Researchers from Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have developed a protocol that combines random sampling, high-throughput experimentation, and data science to identify synergistic catalyst combinations. The study identified 51 out of 300 catalysts as effective in the oxidative coupling of methane reaction.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalACS Catalysis·DateFeb 3, 2021

Hydrogen-producing enzyme protects itself against oxygen

Researchers discovered a unique molecular mechanism in CbA5H that shields the catalytic cofactor from oxygen attack, allowing it to repeatedly survive and resume activity. This protective function is provided by a thiol group binding directly to the substrate coordination site of the catalytic cluster.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 2, 2021
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.

Tungsten-substituted vanadium oxide breathes fresh air into catalyst technology

Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University have created a new tungsten-substituted vanadium oxide catalyst that works efficiently at 100-150 degrees Celsius, even in wet conditions. The material's superior performance makes it ideal for processing real industrial exhaust and contributing to cleaner air.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 26, 2021

Photocatalytic reaction in the shadow

Researchers developed an illumination-reaction decoupled n-Si MIS photocathode that surmounts challenges impeding p-Si MIS photocathode development. The new design utilizes majority carriers to drive the surface reduction reaction, avoiding light-shielding problems and enabling higher efficiency.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJan 25, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Boosting the efficiency of carbon capture and conversion systems

Researchers at MIT have developed a method to significantly boost the performance of systems capturing and converting carbon dioxide from power plant emissions. By concentrating carbon dioxide next to the catalyst surface, the system nearly doubles the reaction rate and produces valuable products like fuels and chemical feedstocks.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateJan 25, 2021

Single atoms as a catalyst: Surprising effects ensue

Researchers at TU Wien have developed a new approach to single-atom catalysis, which can lead to more effective and cost-efficient catalysts. The study reveals that customized properties through tailored surfaces can change the reactivity of individual atoms, making expensive metals like platinum less necessary.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScience·DateJan 22, 2021

Teamwork in a molecule

Chemists at the University of Jena have successfully created a bimetallic main-group complex using gallium, demonstrating cooperative bond activation that can remove fluorine atoms from hydrocarbon compounds. The breakthrough paves the way for further development of sustainable catalytic reactions.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 21, 2021

Controlling chemical catalysts with sculpted light

Scientists have developed a method to control the activity of chemical catalysts using sculpted light, which can lead to faster or more efficient reactions. By manipulating the location of reactive sites on the catalyst, researchers can optimize the performance of single catalysts and avoid unwanted reactions.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience·DateJan 15, 2021
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Catalyticity of molybdenum-dinitrogen complexes in organic reactions

Research reveals molybdenum-nitrogen complexes as effective catalysts for disproportionation of cyclohexadienes, with the Mo-N=N unit playing a key role in the reaction. High catalytic activity suggests new approaches to participate in catalytic systems for nitrogen ligands.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateJan 14, 2021

Berkeley Lab science snapshots

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have launched a comprehensive resource on carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technologies and policies to mitigate climate change. The CDR Primer provides an overview of various techniques, including sequestering carbon in soil through improved agricultural practices.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalJoule·DateJan 14, 2021

How aerosols are formed

Researchers at ETH Zurich have gained new insights into aerosol formation by detecting volatile components for the first time. Volatile components were found to catalyze vapor nucleation, accelerating the process.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 14, 2021

Catalysts: worth taking a closer look

A new research method has successfully investigated the role of oxygen in complex metal oxide surfaces, revealing that oxygen atoms settle down particularly easily in specific places. This breakthrough understanding will aid in improving important catalysts needed for energy and environmental technology.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 13, 2021
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Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Sustainable transportation: clearing the air on nitrogen doping

A study published in Angewandte Chemie International Edition reveals the role of pyridinic nitrogen in optimizing oxygen reduction reactions in PEM fuel cells. Nitrogen-doped carbon catalysts were found to have improved performance, paving the way for more sustainable transportation technologies.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 12, 2021

USTC obtains Pd-Pt tesseracts for oxygen reduction reaction

Scientists at USTC created a new type of catalyst by etching Pd-Pt nanocubes, resulting in higher surface area and active sites. The new tesseracts framework structure showed improved atomic utilization and stability, achieving mass activities 11.6 times that of commercial Pt/C catalysts.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 12, 2021

Making hydrogen energy with the common nickel

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have developed a highly efficient nickel-based catalyst system that produces high-purity hydrogen fuel with reduced overvoltage. The catalyst combines earth-abundant nickel with oxophilic transition metal elements to optimize adsorption abilities.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 12, 2021

'Swiss Army knife' catalyst can make natural gas burn cleaner

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago developed a new catalyst made from 10 elements that can lower methane combustion temperatures by half. This could lead to a significant reduction in harmful greenhouse gases produced by burning natural gas in households, power turbines, and cars.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Catalysis·DateJan 11, 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.

Carbon monoxide reduced to valuable liquid fuels

Rice University engineers have created a process that converts carbon monoxide directly into acetic acid, a widely used chemical agent. The electrochemical process uses nanoscale copper cubes and solid-state electrolytes to produce highly purified acetic acid with up to 98% purity.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 11, 2021

Researchers take key step toward cleaner, more sustainable production of hydrogen

Researchers at Oregon State University have made a significant breakthrough in producing hydrogen from water using an electrochemical catalytic process. The study found that this method is cleaner and more sustainable than traditional natural gas-based production, with potential applications in fuel cells and industrial processes.

SourceOregon State University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 8, 2021

Researchers synthesize bio-based Methylcyclopentadiene with 3-Methylcyclopent-2-enone

Researchers at Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics successfully synthesized bio-based Methylcyclopentadiene through direct hydrodeoxygenation of 3-methylcyclopent-2-enone derived from cellulose. The process achieved a high carbon yield of 70% and opens up a new horizon for the production of valuable products.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 7, 2021
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 regenerate deactivated catalyst in methanol-to-olefins process

A research team from Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics regenerates deactivated catalysts in the methanol-to-olefins (MTO) process by transforming coke to active intermediates. This approach promotes light olefin formation and recovers catalyst activity, achieving high selectivity rates.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 4, 2021
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SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Speeding toward improved hydrogen fuel production

Researchers have designed an effective material for speeding up the extraction of hydrogen from alcohols, using earth-abundant metals instead of precious ones. The catalyst, made from tiny clusters of nickel metal, accelerates the reaction efficiently and cleanly.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 21, 2020

New catalytic approach to accessing key intermediate carbocation

Researchers developed a novel multifaceted catalyst to access transient carbocation intermediates, achieving regiocontrolled elimination reactions. The new catalyst produces ring-shaped molecules highly sought after in synthetic, organic, and pharmaceutical chemistry.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Catalysis·DateDec 21, 2020

Shifting gears toward chemical machines

Pittsburgh engineers build a two-dimensional sheet that spontaneously transforms into a three-dimensional gear, performing sustained work without external power. The innovation enables the development of self-powered machines for resource-poor environments.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalMatter·DateDec 18, 2020

Three-dimensional view of catalysts in action

A new diagnostic tool allows for the visualization of catalysts in three dimensions, enabling researchers to study complex chemical reactions and improve materials. The technique, operando X-ray spectroscopy, provides detailed information on the structure and function of active catalysts.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Catalysis·DateDec 17, 2020

Upcycling: new catalytic process turns plastic bags into adhesives

Researchers at UC Berkeley develop a new catalytic process converting polyethylene plastic into high-value adhesives, enhancing its stickiness without compromising other traits. This breakthrough could change the economics of turning waste into valuable products.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalChem·DateDec 17, 2020
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.

Research breakthrough could transform clean energy technology

Researchers at UVA, Caltech, and Argonne National Laboratory have developed a new catalyst using cobalt and titanium that can efficiently split water molecules into oxygen and hydrogen. This breakthrough has the potential to make solar energy practical on a large scale.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Catalysis·DateDec 17, 2020

Catalytic activity of individual cobalt oxide nanoparticles determined

Researchers have developed a new technique to analyze the properties of individual cobalt oxide particles, enabling more efficient catalysts for hydrogen production. The method allows for the selection of particles under an electron microscope and their placement on a nanoelectrode for electrochemical analysis.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateDec 15, 2020

Weak force has strong impact on nanosheets

Rice University scientists found that van der Waals force can indent rigid nanosheets, changing their electromagnetic properties. The researchers discovered that the force is sufficient to deform 8-nanometer-thick silver sheets into curvilinear structures with potential applications in nanophotonic research and catalytic systems.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 15, 2020

How water helps the substrate into the enzyme

Researchers discovered water's unique properties when confined in a tiny cage, facilitating access to the catalytic center. The team showed that water forms a droplet inside the cage, structurally and dynamically distinct from known phases of water.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·DateDec 15, 2020

Bio-inspired lanthanide-transition metal cluster for efficient overall water splitting

Researchers from Xiamen University demonstrated a bio-inspired heterometallic cluster that mimics the CaMn4O5 structure of PSII, showing efficient overall water splitting activity without sacrificial reagents. The cluster anchors on phosphorus-doped graphitic carbon nitrides and exhibits high H2 production rates and O2 evolution rates.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateDec 10, 2020
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.

Carbon dioxide converted to ethylene -- the 'rice of the industry'

A Korean research team has made a breakthrough in understanding the electrochemical conversion of CO2 to ethylene, a challenging process that could produce high-value-added chemicals. The study identified key intermediates and proposed copper hydroxide nanowire as a promising catalyst for enhancing selectivity.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateDec 2, 2020

Breaking the rules of chemistry unlocks new reaction

Scientists at the University of Nottingham have developed a new method to produce chemical molecules more efficiently through a one-step reaction in an enzyme. This breakthrough has significant implications for the production of pharmaceuticals, with potential applications in the development of new drugs.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalNature Catalysis·DateDec 1, 2020

Skoltech scientists run a 'speed test' to boost production of carbon nanotubes

Researchers at Skoltech have discovered a way to increase the productivity of carbon nanotube synthesis by adjusting catalyst injection rates, leading to a 9-fold increase in yield while preserving key properties. This breakthrough has the potential to pave the way for cheaper and more accessible nanotube-based technology.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateDec 1, 2020
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.

New procedure will reduce the need for rare metals in chemical synthesis

Researchers from Kanazawa University have developed a new procedure to reduce the use of rare metals in pharmaceutical and chemical syntheses. The study found that benzylic organoborates can perform tertiary alkylative cross-coupling reactions without using rare elements, paving the way for a more sustainable chemical industry.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateNov 27, 2020

Stable catalysts for new energy

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have developed stable catalysts for water splitting and CO2 reduction by studying atomic surface structures. The team found that specific surface angles can create microscopically small triangular holes that stabilize the material and enhance its effectiveness.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateNov 24, 2020

Light-controlled nanomachine controls catalysis

Researchers at FAU have developed a light-controlled molecular motor that can control catalysis reactions. The system uses visible light to trigger the release and bonding of catalysts, accelerating or decelerating desired chemical reactions.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 20, 2020
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.

Cysteine synthesis was a key step in the origin of life

In a new study published in Science, UCL scientists have recreated how cysteine was formed at the origins of life, delivering vital catalysts that enabled the earliest protein molecules to form. The researchers observed how once-formed cysteine catalyses the fusion of peptides in water, a fundamental step towards protein enzymes.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalScience·DateNov 12, 2020

Catalyzing a zero-carbon world by harvesting energy from living cells

Researchers at Nagoya University have discovered a way to harness energy from living cells by modifying highly functionalized PCAs into biorenewable molecules. The new catalyst enables the selective hydrogenation and dehydration of Krebs cycle metabolites, producing compounds with valuable applications in plastics and polymers.

SourceNagoya University·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 12, 2020

Smaller than ever--exploring the unusual properties of quantum-sized materials

Researchers have developed a novel method to synthesize sub-nanoparticles (SNPs) with controlled composition and size, enabling the discovery of unique properties. The team found unusual electronic states and oxygen content in SNPs with an indium-to-tin ratio of 3:4, leading to different optical properties.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 12, 2020
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Ultrafast laser experiments pave way to better industrial catalysts

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a new method for creating ultrafast laser experiments on uncharged iron oxide clusters, which could lead to the creation of more efficient industrial catalysts. The study reveals how changes in atomic composition affect stability and reactivity of these fragments.

SourceArizona State University·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateNov 10, 2020

Machine learning advances materials for separations, adsorption, and catalysis

Researchers used machine learning to predict water stability in metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), accelerating the development of new materials. The model, trained on over 200 existing MOFs, enables predictions for other important properties, expanding applications in chemical separations, adsorption, and sensing.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Machine Intelligence·DateNov 9, 2020
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.

The importance of good neighbors in catalysis

Scientists from Chalmers University of Technology investigate the role of nearest neighbors in nanoparticles' activity. They isolated copper particles and monitored their behavior in a nanotube, finding that oxidation state can be dynamically affected by neighboring particles during reactions.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 3, 2020

In a hurry to develop drugs? Here's your cHAT

Rice University scientists have developed a novel 'green' method for producing pharmaceutical intermediates using the cooperative hydrogen atom transfer (cHAT) technique. This approach employs earth-abundant iron and sulfur as catalysts, reducing costs and environmental impact compared to traditional methods.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 30, 2020
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Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.