Chemical Mixtures

The 28th European Congress of Endocrinology (ECE) starts tomorrow

Toward tougher, longer-lasting, more sustainable tires

Harvard engineers develop new method to preserve long molecular chains in natural rubber, resulting in composite materials that are both stiff and tough. The innovation has the potential to cut waste, reduce tire dust pollution, and open new avenues for high-performance elastomers.

From cells to smart gels: momentum in motion

Professor Timo Betz's project aims to develop synthetic materials that mimic key behaviors of living cells, including self-organization and physical adaptation. By studying the mechanical properties of living cells, he will recreate part of the cell's interior in a synthetic way.

New release: Wiley’s Mass Spectra of Designer Drugs 2026 expands coverage of emerging novel psychoactive substances

The 2026 release expands coverage of emerging novel psychoactive substances, including synthetic cannabinoids, fentanyl analogs, and pharmaceutical drugs. The database provides comprehensive and up-to-date support for forensic, toxicology, and drug surveillance workflows.

Lignin nanoparticles enable recyclable paper to rival plastic packaging

Researchers develop a coating strategy using lignin nanoparticles to stabilize an oil-in-water emulsion, forming a multifunctional coating that enhances paper performance while maintaining environmental compatibility. The coated paper exhibits improved barrier properties, mechanical strength, and biodegradability.

New materials conduct ions in solids as easily as in liquids

Scientists have synthesised a new class of materials called state-independent electrolytes that allow negatively charged ions to move freely in solid and liquid states. This discovery opens possibilities for safer, lightweight solid-state devices with potential applications in batteries, sensors, and electrochromic devices.

Exposure to PFAS and PCBs linked to higher odds of MS

Research analyzed blood samples from 1,800 individuals in Sweden, finding links between PFAS and PCB exposure and increased odds of multiple sclerosis. The study also highlighted genetic vulnerability and complex interactions between environmental contaminants and hereditary factors.

Wiley expands spectral libraries with major updates to IR, Raman, and LC-MS collections

Wiley has expanded its spectral libraries with major updates to IR, Raman, and LC-MS collections, delivering researchers enhanced capabilities for faster and more confident compound identification. The expansion brings over 9.5 million high-quality spectra, including 1 million IR spectra and 161,000 Raman spectra.

Scientists call on better regulation for chemical cocktails in Europe

A new policy brief argues that current EU regulations fail to account for the risks of chemical mixtures, which can exceed safe levels even below individual substance limits. Scientists propose integrating a Mixture Allocation Factor into the REACH Regulation to regulate mixtures and improve protection of human health and the environment.

Hidden catalysis: Abrasion transforms common chemistry equipment into reagents

A study from OIST shows that abrasion from common additives can lead to efficient reactions under mechanochemical conditions. Abrasive materials like tungsten carbide or diamond powder activate catalysts and drive coupling reactions. This finding changes the way researchers think about mechanochemical catalysts.

Polyphenols Applications World Congress and Iprona will launch Global Call to Advance Robust, Reproducible Polyphenol Research, next October in Malta

ElderCraft, a standardized polyphenol extract from Austrian elderberries, is now available for free to qualified researchers worldwide. This initiative aims to reduce study-to-study variability and enable stronger meta-analyses in polyphenol science.

Scientists uncover key stabilizing role of small molecules

Researchers from EPFL and MIT discovered that amino acids have a fundamental stabilizing effect on colloids in solution, not related to biology but rather a general property of small molecules. This finding has implications for controlling molecular interactions and may lead to more precise predictions of protein stability.

Researchers uncover potential biosignatures on Mars

A new study has revealed chemical signatures of ancient Martian microbial life in the Bright Angel formation, a region of Jezero Crater known for its fine-grained mudstones rich in oxidized iron and organic carbon. The findings suggest that early microorganisms may have played a role in shaping these rocks through redox reactions.

Upcycling proteins just got easier

Researchers at Harvard SEAS have developed a gentler, more sustainable way to break down keratins and turn leftover wool and feathers into useful products. The process uses concentrated lithium bromide to create an environment favorable for spontaneous protein unfolding.

“The global community must take action”

The UN aims to establish an internationally legally binding framework to manage plastic, reducing waste, and promoting recycling. The agreement is intended to address the global issue of plastic pollution, which affects marine wildlife and human health.

Wiley adds Raman data to its KnowItAll Libraries, including microplastics, biopolymers, polymer and monomers, and minerals

Wiley adds new data to its KnowItAll Raman Spectral Library collection, bringing the total to over 27,000 spectra. This expansion enhances lab efficiency and accuracy through reliable spectral analysis.

PFAS influence cellular immune response to coronavirus

A recent study by UFZ reveals that PFAS influence the cellular immune response to SARS-CoV-2, particularly in males. The researchers found that high PFAS exposure alters the immune response, potentially reducing its effectiveness and increasing the risk of poor disease progression.

UTA professor named fellow of world’s oldest chem group

Rasika Dias, a renowned chemist at UTA, has been named a 2025 fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry for his groundbreaking contributions to chemical sciences. He is the second chemistry faculty member to receive this honor.

3D-printed open-source robot offers accessible solution for materials synthesis

The FLUID robot, developed by Hokkaido University researchers, automates the co-precipitation of cobalt and nickel to create binary materials with precision. The open-source system uses a 3D printer and off-the-shelf electronics, making it customizable and cost-effective for researchers worldwide.

Energy giants back key CCUS breakthrough research

A new two-year project funded by TotalEnergies and Equinor aims to improve thermodynamic models for carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) fluids. This will help establish optimum operational conditions and reduce risks associated with VOCs in CO2 streams.

How calcium may have unlocked the origins of life’s molecular asymmetry

A new study by researchers at the Institute of Science Tokyo hints that calcium ions played a crucial role in shaping life's earliest molecular structures. The team discovered that calcium dramatically alters how tartaric acid molecules link together, favoring homochiral polymers and potentially influencing the emergence of life.

‘Microlightning’ in water droplets may have sparked life on Earth

Researchers propose that microlightning in water droplets, rather than lightning strikes, sparked the formation of organic molecules with carbon-nitrogen bonds. This new mechanism suggests a more plausible explanation for the origin of life on Earth, overcoming criticisms of the Miller-Urey hypothesis.

Selective combustion provides energy-efficient alternative to remove pollutants from industrial processes

Researchers at the University of Minnesota discovered a new method to selectively burn one molecule in a mixture of hydrocarbons using a bismuth oxide catalyst. This process, called chemical looping combustion, could help remove pollutants and improve industrial processes with high energy efficiency.

How Earth's early cycles shaped the chemistry of life

A new study explores how chemical mixtures transform under shifting environmental conditions, shedding light on prebiotic processes that may have led to life. The research finds that environmental factors played a key role in shaping the molecular complexity needed for life to emerge.

How life's building blocks took shape on early Earth: the limits of membraneless polyester protocell formation

A recent study found that polyester microdroplets can form in salt-rich environments, at low alpha-hydroxy acid concentrations, and in small reaction volumes. This expands on previous research and suggests that polyester protocells were likely more common on early Earth than previously thought.

Nanotechnology: Light enables an "impossibile" molecular fit

A team of scientists has developed a method to insert a filiform molecule into the cavity of a ring-shaped molecule using light-induced reactions and self-assembly processes. This creates a molecular fit that is not possible at thermodynamic equilibrium, enabling the creation of new substances with unique properties.

AI-driven approach reveals hidden hazards of chemical mixtures in rivers

A new AI-driven approach identifies potentially harmful chemical substances in rivers by monitoring their effects on tiny water fleas, providing insights into complex mixtures and aquatic life. The study enables more comprehensive environmental monitoring and supports better-informed regulations for chemical discharge into waterways.

Chemistry: Algorithm can sniff out whisky’s strongest notes and origin

Researchers developed two machine learning algorithms to determine whisky origin and identify strongest aromas, outperforming human experts. The algorithms accurately classified whiskies into American or Scotch categories with over 90% accuracy.

New recommendations published on how to improve and accelerate testing of chemicals

The University of Birmingham and DEFRA's Hazardous Substances Advisory Committee have published new recommendations for improving chemical testing. The report suggests that the UK can adopt a risk-based approach to regulation, using New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), to reduce animal testing and improve safety assessments.

Effects of chemical mixtures: Neurotoxic effects add up

A UFZ study found that individual chemicals can have additive effects on human health when combined with other chemicals, leading to increased neurotoxicity. The research analyzed blood samples from pregnant women and found that even low concentrations of chemicals could cause adverse effects on nerve-like cells.

UCF researchers develop unique ‘barcodes’ for molecules to help expedite medical advancements

UCF researchers have developed a unique 'barcode' technique to quickly identify chiral molecules based on their infrared fingerprints. This technology has the potential to speed up pharmaceutical and medical advancements by identifying enantiomers, which can have different effects in the body or chemical reactions.

It all adds up: Study finds forever chemicals are more toxic as mixtures

Researchers found that individual PFAS have relatively low cytotoxicity and neurotoxicity levels, but the chemicals act together to make mixtures toxic. PFOA and PFOS were found to be major contributors to mixture toxicity.

Honeybees: Combinations of pesticides can be dangerous

Research found that combining neonicotinoids with fungicides significantly increased mortality of bee larvae, while also affecting adult honeybee survival rates and lifespan. The study suggests that solitary wild bees may be more vulnerable to pesticide effects due to their smaller colony size.

How stressed are you? Nanoparticles pave the way for home stress testing

Researchers have developed a cost-effective and easily reproducible point-of-care testing device that can accurately measure cortisol levels in the blood. The device uses iridium oxide nanoparticles to improve stability, sensitivity, and selectivity, allowing for commercial use.

New technology uses light to engrave erasable 3D images

Researchers at Dartmouth College developed a technique using light to imprint 2D and 3D images inside any polymer containing a photosensitive chemical additive. The technology enables the creation of erasable 3D displays with high resolution, applicable in surgeries, architectural designs, education, and art.

Precise stirring conditions key to optimizing nanostructure synthesis

Researchers found that controlling oxygen intake by adjusting stirring rates produces stable fluorescent silver nanoclusters. The study enhances understanding of nanostructure properties, paving the way for tailored nanomaterials with broader applications.

Prenatal exposure to chemical mixtures and metabolic syndrome risk in children

A cohort study suggests that prenatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals is associated with adverse metabolic health in children, highlighting the need for public health implications. The findings indicate a potential link between chemical mixtures and metabolic syndrome in offspring.

Exposure to mixtures of endocrine-disrupting chemicals during pregnancy is associated with higher odds of metabolic syndrome in children

A new study found that prenatal exposure to a combination of endocrine-disrupting chemicals is associated with poorer metabolic health in childhood, increasing the risk of metabolic syndrome in adulthood. Mixtures of metals, PFAS, and organochlorine pesticides were linked to higher risks.

Molecular secret behind alcohol content of beverages revealed

Researchers have discovered distinct ethanol-water molecular clusters that determine critical alcohol content ranges in various beverages. By controlling these clusters' transitions, manufacturers can maintain ideal taste while reducing alcohol concentration.

How scientists are accelerating chemistry discoveries with automation

A new statistical-modeling workflow can quickly identify molecular structures of products formed by chemical reactions, accelerating drug discovery and synthetic chemistry. The workflow also enables the analysis of unpurified reaction mixtures, reducing time spent on purification and characterization.

Scientists unveil cutting-edge ruthenium catalyst for new reaction discovery and optimization

Researchers at The University of Manchester have developed a new ruthenium catalyst, proven to be long-term stable in air while maintaining high reactivity. This breakthrough enables the user to run simultaneous reactions, streamlining optimisation procedures and reducing waste accumulation.

Fast folding for synthetic peptides and microproteins

Researchers at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University developed a new method that enables the efficient production of cysteine-rich peptides and microproteins in their naturally folded 3D structure. The approach uses organic solvents to mimic nature's oxidative folding process, resulting in speeds of over 100,000 times faster than aqueous...

Molecular simulations of ammonia mixtures support search for renewable fuels

Researchers used HLRS's Hawk supercomputer to generate valuable thermodynamic data for chemical engineering research. The simulations provide insights into ammonia's fundamental properties and how they change when mixing with other molecules.

Mapping chemical footprints in European streams

A study analyzing 610 chemicals found in European watercourses detected 504 substances, including pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and PFAS, with 74% of samples exceeding scientific limit values. The chemical footprint concept quantifies the impact of mixtures on aquatic organisms, highlighting the need for further monitoring and evaluation.

Plumber’s nightmare structure in block polymers

A team at Pohang University of Science & Technology has successfully created the world's first plumber's nightmare structure in block copolymers, a complex configuration where polymer chain ends coalesce inward. This achievement showcases the potential for self-assembly in block copolymers and opens up new possibilities for materializi...

Pesticides and adjuvants disrupt honey bee’s sense of smell

Researchers found that pesticide-adjuvant combinations used in almond orchards can interfere with honey bee communication. The study suggests that these chemicals can alter the antennal responses to brood and alarm pheromones, potentially disrupting colony function.

How to identify vintage wines by their chemical signature

Researchers from UNIGE and ISVV have successfully identified the chemical mark of red wines from seven major Bordeaux estates with 100% accuracy using artificial intelligence. The team analyzed gas chromatograms from 80 wines and applied dimensionality reduction techniques to develop a reliable model.

Shedding light on the synthesis of sugars before the origin of life

A new study reveals a nonenzymatic chemical network that could have produced pentoses on early Earth, providing clues about primitive biochemistry. The proposed pathway relies on chemical transformations reminiscent of the pentose phosphate pathway, bringing us closer to understanding the emergence of life.

Selenium reduces mixtures of environmental pollutants′ harmful effects on health

A study in mice shows that exposure to pollutant mixtures increases health damage and suggests selenium can mitigate this effect by activating antioxidant defenses. Selenium was found to reduce molecular damage caused by the pollutants.

Prenatal exposure to environmental chemicals linked to childhood growth changes

A new study reveals that prenatal exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals is linked to accelerated BMI gain in children from birth to nine years old. The study found that certain mixtures of these chemicals increase the risk of childhood obesity and its related health consequences.

Purdue team examines bio-impact of toxic chemical cocktails in the environment

Purdue University scientists examine the bio-impact of toxic chemical cocktails in the environment, finding reduced growth in tadpoles exposed to PFAS mixtures. The study highlights the need for research on mixture toxicity in aquatic organisms, as each chemical interacts with others in complex ways.

Research shows wildfire smoke may linger in homes long after initial blaze

Research from Colorado State University shows wildfire smoke can attach to home surfaces like carpet and drapes, extending exposure and potentially causing health problems. Simple surface cleaning, such as vacuuming or mopping, can reduce exposure and limit risk.

Better together against cancer

Researchers combined three highly potent cancer drugs in a single prodrug that is activated in tumor cells, resulting in improved efficacy and reduced side effects. The new approach has shown promise as a potential solution to reduce the burden on patients' bodies during cancer treatment.

Scaling up the power of nanotechnology

The team created a proof-of-concept nanocapsule capable of delivering specific payloads to targeted locations, with potential applications in drug delivery, nutrient transport, and other fields. By using calcium metal ions as building blocks, they can generate identical reservoirs for different substances.

The first organic oscillator that makes catalysis swing

Scientists at the University of Groningen created an oscillating system using simple molecules to achieve periodic catalytic activity. The system enables enhanced chemical selectivity, favoring one reaction over others, and has potential applications in polymer synthesis and drug delivery.

Surpassing the human eye: machine learning image analysis rapidly determines chemical mixture composition

A machine learning model has been developed to distinguish the composition ratio of solid mixtures of chemical compounds using only photographs. The model was trained on a small dataset and achieved accuracy roughly twice that of human experts.

Sex pheromone of moths is a precise mix of ingredients

Researchers identified a precise mix of ingredients in male moths' pheromones that increases mating chances. The discovery reveals the role of plant-derived substances, such as methyl salicylate, in attracting females.

Scientists synthesize isotopic atropisomers based on carbon isotope discrimination

Researchers successfully synthesized isotopic atropisomers based on carbon isotope discrimination, exhibiting high rotational stability and stereochemical purity. The findings hold promise for fundamental understanding of isotopic atropisomers with implications in organic and medicinal chemistry.

Sunscreen leaching poses minimal threat to aquatic wildlife

New research reveals that sunscreen contamination may be less harmful to wildlife than previously thought, with exposure posing a low risk to small aquatic animals compared to individual chemicals.

“Two peas in a pod?” Molding two-dimensional organic molecule crystals

Scientists at POSTECH successfully grow two-dimensional molecular crystals, demonstrating control over exciton interactions. The findings could enable various applications in organic semiconductors and solar power generation.