Articles tagged with Chemical Engineering
Scientists at Pohang University of Science & Technology develop biopolymer-blended protective layer to stabilize zinc anodes in metal batteries. The film facilitates uniform nucleation of zinc, reducing the formation of twig-like crystals and improving battery longevity.
Researchers at NC State University developed an autonomous system called SmartDope to synthesize 'best-in-class' materials for specific applications in hours or days. It uses a self-driving lab to manipulate variables, characterize optical properties, and update its understanding of the synthesis chemistry through machine learning.
Researchers successfully produced alstonine, a naturally occurring substance with potential for treating mental disorders, using genetically engineered yeast cells. The yeast platform has the potential to discover and develop plant-based medicines, including those for schizophrenia.
Researchers at the University of Sydney have developed a new technique using liquid metals to replace energy-intensive chemical engineering processes. The method reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 15% and enables the production of high-energy fuels like propylene, crucial for various industries.
The researchers propose a hybrid organic–inorganic gas sensor design that enhances gas sensing performance while maintaining sensing speed. The proposed design outperforms conventional sensors in terms of chemical sensitivity to NO2, showcasing impressive durability and higher potential for long-term installation.
Researchers discovered that a new type of electrolyte uses complex nanostructures similar to those in soap to improve battery life. This understanding could lead to the development of lithium batteries that store more energy and last longer.
The study successfully enhances energy conversion efficiency by over twice that of conventional cells while reducing production costs by a factor of 3,000. This breakthrough could lead to widespread adoption in energy harvesting applications generating energy from waste heat.
Researchers at the University of Surrey have developed new, tissue-equivalent curved organic X-ray detectors that are cheaper, more flexible, and sensitive than traditional detectors. These detectors have the potential to improve accuracy in cancer treatment and reduce radiation risk.
Researchers have developed catalysts that combine iridium and ruthenium, preserving their excellent attributes and improving activity and stability. The study also explores the importance of carefully selecting candidate materials and retaining superior properties even after nanostructure formation.
Researchers at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University have developed a sensitive and robust pH sensor that can detect pH variation in just a few microliters of samples. The new sensor uses novel materials and methods to overcome the current method's limitations, which are not sensitive enough or fragile for commercial-scale use.
The LoCKAmp device uses lab-on-a-chip technology to detect Covid-19 and other pathogens in just three minutes, providing rapid and accurate results. The device has the potential to be used in remote healthcare settings and could also detect conditions like cancer.
Researchers at University of Tokyo developed a new plastic material called VPR, which can maintain complex shapes, repair itself with heat, and biodegrade in seawater. The material has improved toughness, shape memory, and recyclability.
Researchers successfully developed a novel method for transforming atropisomers into specific enantiomers using the Pauson–Khand reaction. The reaction achieved high enantiomeric excesses and selectivity, opening up new avenues for synthesizing pharmaceutical compounds.
Researchers at the University of California San Diego have created modular nanoparticles that can be tailored for various applications, including targeted drug delivery and neutralizing biological agents. By leveraging a plug-and-play approach, scientists can rapidly modify functional biological nanoparticles with ease.
A team of researchers from POSTECH successfully engineered a dual metalens capable of switching between different imaging modes using a single lens. This innovation enables fast mode-switching and acquisition of high-resolution images for applications such as bio-imaging and cellular reactions.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have developed a new simulation method using AI to predict powder mixing with high accuracy and low computational costs. This breakthrough enables large-scale and long-duration powder mixing processes, set to enhance product quality and streamline production.
Researchers from Texas A&M University's Department of Geography and collaborating departments aim to improve understanding of how environmental hazards influence human health outcomes. The project, 'Climate-LEAD,' will create robust models using localized data to inform decision-making in vulnerable communities.
Researchers have developed a new synthesis method that controls the temperature and duration of the crystallization process to produce 2D halide perovskite layers with ideal thickness and purity. This breakthrough improves the stability and reduces the cost of solar cells, making them a viable option for emerging technologies.
The study highlights that up to 80% of dye-containing industrial wastewaters are released untreated into waterways, posing direct and indirect threats to human, animal, and plant health. New sustainable technologies and regulations are needed to combat the issue.
Researchers at UC Riverside successfully engineered a plant to turn beet red in the presence of a banned pesticide, enabling an environmental sensor without damaging its native metabolism. This breakthrough opens up possibilities for detecting other toxic substances like drugs and birth control pills in water supply.
Researchers created a hydrogel mat with magnetic microparticles that mimic the forces of exercise. The team found that regularly exercising muscle cells resulted in longer, aligned fibers, and improved contraction capabilities.
A collaborative study published in the Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters uses computer algorithms to generate molecular adaptations for COVID-19 medications. The researchers identified a functionalized molecule that showed promise against SARS-CoV-2, with enhanced potency compared to its parent compound.
Researchers have created a fire-inhibiting, nonflammable gel polymer electrolyte for lithium-ion batteries, increasing ion conductivity by 33% and improving life characteristics by 110%. The electrolyte prevents radical chain reactions during combustion, effectively inhibiting battery fires.
A novel strategy utilizing phosphorus nanolayers mitigates electrode-level heterogeneity in fast-charging lithium-ion batteries. The graphite-phosphorus composite exhibits consistent cycle retention, high Coulombic efficiency, and improved lithiation uniformity.
U of I researchers have developed organic nanozymes that mimic the properties of natural enzymes, exhibiting peroxidase-like activities and detecting glyphosate with adequate accuracy. The OC nanozyme is quicker to produce, cost-effective, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly.
Researchers at Georgia Tech have developed new polymer membranes that can improve distillation processes, reducing the global energy and water use. The DUCKY polymers use a novel combination of characteristics to selectively bind desirable molecules, making them a promising solution for industries.
The Swanson School of Engineering at the University of Pittsburgh is launching a personalized learning model to cater to students' unique career aspirations. The program offers one-credit modules and professional development streams in industry, entrepreneurship, and academia to help students forge their own path.
Researchers propose a hybrid control strategy combining model-based optimization and in-cell feedback control to solve the process-model mismatch issue. This approach enhances the regulation of metabolic toggle switches, leading to increased isopropanol yields and robust microbial material production.
Researchers developed a nanocapsule that reduces lactate levels and releases hydrogen peroxide, recruiting and activating immune cells to attack tumors. The approach increased immune cell activity by 2-5-fold, improving cancer immunotherapy success rates.
A research team at Pohang University of Science & Technology created a photomultiplication-type organic photodiode that recognizes colors without an electron receptor, improving stability and full-color capability in applications like biometric recognition technology and cameras.
Researchers at Washington State University have made a groundbreaking discovery about the Fischer Tropsch process, a key step in converting coal, natural gas, and biomass into liquid fuels. The team found that the process exhibits self-sustained oscillations, which can be harnessed to enhance reaction rates and product yields.
A team of researchers has developed a stable, long-lasting superhydrophobic surface with a plastron that can last for months underwater. The surface repels blood and prevents the adhesion of marine organisms, making it valuable for biomedical applications such as reducing infection after surgery.
Researchers add graphene to Bi-2223 superconductors, increasing critical current density and improving phase formation. The findings suggest potential applications in various fields, including power generation, transportation, and quantum computing.
Researchers investigated the polymerization behavior and thermal properties of copolymers formed through ethylene copolymerization with linear and end-cyclized olefins. The study reveals that end-cyclized olefins have a higher coordination probability and lower insertion rate, leading to stronger crystallization destructive capacity.
Ghent University's research team explores active machine learning to revolutionize chemical engineering. The technology offers greater flexibility and performance compared to traditional design of experiment algorithms.
Researchers propose analysis protocol to evaluate feasibility of silicon-containing batteries with reduced particle size and uniform dispersion. The study finds promising results from innovative synthesis technology and initial efficiencies exceeding 90% with improved lifespan characteristics.
Formaldehyde is a toxic chemical known to cause cancer but also plays an important role in human biology. New compounds developed by University of Leicester researchers allow for controlled release of formaldehyde in cells, enabling precise measurement of its effects.
A research team reviewed the most recent advancements in zeolite-assisted syngas conversion, finding that zeolites effectively optimizes reaction pathways. They achieved improved selectivity for gasoline, jet fuel, and diesel, as well as numerous aromatic products.
A multidisciplinary team investigates hospital wastewater samples and demonstrates the effectiveness of photocatalytic treatment in reducing pharmaceutically active compounds and bacteria. The study highlights the challenges posed by antibiotic-resistant bacteria and suggests a promising step towards sustainable wastewater treatment.
Researchers detected nine types of polymers and one type of rubber in cloud water, confirming microplastics play a key role in rapid cloud formation. The presence of hydrophilic polymers in the atmosphere could lead to significant changes in ecological balance and severe loss of biodiversity.
A team of chemical engineers successfully modified the acidity of a zeolite catalyst to improve paraxylene yield from methanol. The iron-based redox switch demonstrated stability through 16 regeneration cycles, resulting in a three- to six-fold increase in reaction yield.
A research team reviews recent progress in methane conversion using photocatalysis, outlining advances and challenges. Photocatalysts offer a promising alternative to traditional methods, producing high-value fuels and chemicals with low carbon emissions.
Associate Professor Tadashi Ando from Tokyo University of Science conducted a study to test the performance of OPC and OPC3 water models, evaluating their shear viscosities and comparing values to experimental calculations. The calculated viscosities for both models were very close, with notable accuracy at temperatures above 310 K.
Researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed nanoparticles that can deliver pesticide molecules to soil depths previously unreachable, targeting root-damaging nematodes. The technology holds promise for enhancing treatment effectiveness while minimizing costs and environmental toxicity.
A Brown University team developed a hydrogel-based delivery system that balances tumor acidity and increases doxorubicin's effectiveness against cancer cells. Initial lab tests show promising results, paving the way for pre-clinical trials.
Researchers developed a computational model to analyze glucose-responsive insulin (GRI) performance in human patients. The model predicted that differences in sugar receptor behavior between humans and lab animals led to the drug's poor effect in clinical trials. This breakthrough helps researchers design better GRIs, potentially reduc...
Researchers have developed a hybrid silicon photocatalyst that efficiently produces hydrogen and high-value compounds using solar power. The non-toxic catalyst achieves an impressive rate of 14.2 mmol gcat−1 h−1, significantly higher than conventional silicon photocatalysts.
Researchers have developed a new flexible adhesive with improved recovery capabilities and high adhesive strength, enabling applications in foldable displays and medical devices. The adhesive demonstrated remarkable stability under repeated deformation and strain, making it suitable for fields requiring flexibility and optical clarity.
A new drug delivery platform uses ultrasound to target cancer cells, reducing side effects and increasing precision. The system employs gas vesicles and mechanophores to control the release of drugs in response to ultrasound waves.
A team of researchers has made breakthroughs in harnessing low-grade heat sources for efficient energy conversion. They developed a highly efficient Thermally Regenerative Electrochemical Cycle (TREC) system that converts small temperature differences into usable energy.
A team of Korean researchers uses carbon capture and utilization technology to convert industrial CO2 into calcium formate and magnesium oxide, producing two commercially viable products. The process reduces global warming potential by 20% compared to traditional methods.
The Beckman Institute has received a $3.6 million NSF grant to acquire an automated system for designing and analyzing polymers. The system will accelerate the discovery of useful materials, especially in combination with artificial intelligence.
Researchers have genetically engineered Vibrio natriegens to produce enzymes that can break down polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in salt water. This breakthrough addresses the challenge of removing plastics from oceans and could lead to more sustainable solutions.
Researchers create process to recycle polypropylene, polyethylene and polystyrene plastics into chemical ingredients useful for energy storage. The new method uses LEDs and a catalyst, reducing greenhouse emissions compared to traditional recycling processes.
A team from the University of Pittsburgh Swanson School of Engineering has developed a computational model that accurately predicts electrochemical conditions when hydrogen is inserted into different metal oxides. This breakthrough enables researchers to test and validate materials safely and effectively at lower costs.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology developed world-class perovskite transistors by combining three distinct perovskite cations, achieving high hole mobility and on/off current ratio. This breakthrough enables faster computing with lower power consumption.
Researchers at EPFL engineered E. coli bacteria to exhibit enhanced extracellular electron transfer, producing electricity while metabolizing organic substrates. The bioengineered E. coli surpassed previous approaches, generating three times more electrical current in various environments, including wastewater from a brewery.
Chung-Ang University researchers create an electrochemical DNA biosensor that detects HPV-16 and HPV-18 with high specificity, facilitating early diagnosis of cervical cancer. The sensor uses a graphitic nano-onion/MoS2 nanosheet composite to enhance conductivity.
Researchers have created a highly efficient and stable photoelectrode for water splitting using organic semiconductors. The new design overcomes the limitations of traditional inorganic semiconductor-based photoelectrodes, resulting in enhanced hydrogen production efficiency.
Researchers have developed a sustainable solution to clean contaminated water using 3D-printed 'living material' containing genetically engineered bacteria that produce an enzyme to transform organic pollutants. The material's surface area and geometry optimize bacterial growth and decontamination efficiency.