Articles tagged with Chemical Processes
Researchers have developed a new sensor to detect hazardous gas leaks in lithium-ion batteries, which could prevent catastrophic failures and enhance the reliability of battery-powered technologies. The sensor detects trace amounts of ethylene carbonate vapour, targeting potential battery failures before they escalate into disasters.
Researchers have discovered a protein called MdfA that enables bacteria to shut down into dormant spores under extreme conditions. This process allows bacteria to survive in uninhabitable places and evade hospital cleaning, making them potentially deadly superbugs.
A research project from Politecnico di Milano proposes a novel method to recycle used vegetable oil into valuable resources like bio-lubricants and air purification devices. The project optimizes waste treatment processes while reducing waste and promoting European independence in critical raw material supply.
Researchers at MIT have devised a simplified process to convert skin cells directly into neurons, bypassing the stem cell stage and achieving yields of over 10 neurons from a single skin cell. This approach could potentially be used to treat patients with spinal cord injuries or diseases that impair mobility.
Researchers have developed cost-effective and efficient water-splitting catalysts using cobalt and tungsten, which surprisingly increase in performance over time. The unique self-optimization process involves changes in the chemical nature of the catalyzing oxide, leading to improved activity and reduced overpotentials.
Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a groundbreaking method to recycle Plexiglas by breaking down polymer chains into individual monomer building blocks. The process relies on a chlorinated solvent and UV light, with yields of up to 98% even in multicoloured samples.
Researchers developed a novel approach using electrospun poly(Lactic-co-Glycolic Acid) membrane with autologous cells to treat oral mucositis, a painful side effect of chemotherapy. The study showed significant results, with ulcers healed completely within six days and reduced inflammation.
A team of researchers led by Tufts University's Charles Sykes has discovered a new process for producing ethylene oxide, which is widely used in plastics, textiles, and disinfectants. The new method reduces CO2 emissions and eliminates the need for toxic chlorine.
Researchers developed a liquid fertilizer replacing unsustainable chemical fertilizers with organic waste, producing up to 100% of nitrogen and 77% of phosphorus. The method also increases phosphorus solubility by adjusting pH levels.
The motion of particles in high-energy nuclear collisions follows a Lévy-stable distribution, confirming the interdisciplinary nature of the phenomenon. This finding has implications for fields such as biology, earth sciences, and economics.
A recent study found that autophagy, a natural defense mechanism in cells, is less efficient in female eggs with moderate or severe DNA damage. Boosting autophagy can improve egg quality and reduce the risk of miscarriage and birth defects. The study's findings offer new directions for improving reproductive health.
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.
Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed a method to transform graphite into novel materials with controlled atomic layers, enabling the creation of tiny electronic memory units. This process, known as 'Slidetronics,' allows for precise manipulation of material properties, opening doors to innovative applications in electronic...
A POSTECH research team developed a novel multidimensional sampling theory to overcome limitations of flat optics. Their study identifies constraints of conventional sampling theories and presents an innovative anti-aliasing strategy, significantly enhancing optical performance.
A new study highlights the need for collaboration among recyclers, manufacturers, and policymakers to develop efficient and sustainable lithium-ion battery recycling processes. Advanced techniques like direct recycling and upcycling could reduce costs by up to 40% while minimizing secondary pollution.
A novel double aryne insertion strategy has simplified the production of complex thioxanthones, a type of organic compound with various industrial and medical applications. The new method enables efficient synthesis of diverse thioxanthone derivatives, including functional molecules and photocatalysts.
A new process converts polycotton textile waste into glucose, a key bio-based feedstock, and separates polyester fibers for reprocessing. The technique is scalable and cost-effective, offering a viable solution to textile waste recycling.
The OSIRIS-REx mission returned a large sample from asteroid Bennu, which Japanese collaborators detected includes all five nucleobases required for life. The analysis revealed high concentrations of ammonia and nitrogen-rich organic matter.
Researchers developed AshPhos, a ligand that facilitates the formation of carbon-nitrogen bonds using inexpensive materials. The tool has potential applications in pharmaceuticals, nanomaterials, and degrading PFAS pollutants.
Four Case School of Engineering faculty members, A. Bolu Ajiboye, Christine Duval, Burcu Gurkan, and Steve Majerus, received the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers from the US government. The award recognizes their exceptional talent, dedication, and impact in their respective research fields.
The University of Texas at Arlington is developing more efficient processes for sourcing rare earth elements needed to produce high-performance magnets. The project aims to make the mining of these critical materials more environmentally sustainable and cost-effective.
Lithium-sulphur batteries have high specific energy densities but are susceptible to degradation due to polysulphide and sulphur phase formation. Researchers investigated lithium-sulphur pouch cells using operando analysis, revealing new insights into cell component design and performance.
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.
The 26th Nagoya Medal of Organic Chemistry will be held on January 24th, 2025, with gold medalist Professor Alois Fürstner presenting lectures on catalysis and metal-carbene chemistry. Silver medalist Professor Masayuki Inoue will discuss total synthesis of highly oxygenated natural products.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a programmable quantum system capable of independently controlling key factors in electron transfer. This breakthrough paves the way for novel insights into light-harvesting systems and molecular devices.
Scientists at the Institute of Physical Chemistry Polish Academy of Sciences created a method to measure molecular brightness and eliminate background light. This technique allows for counting individual photons emitted by molecules, enabling precise measurement of molecule concentrations. The researchers applied this approach to study...
A study by the American Chemical Society has found elevated levels of 'forever chemicals' in several smartwatch wristbands, with one compound, PFHxA, appearing in nine out of 22 tested wristbands. The concentrations of PFHxA were found to be nearly 800 ppb on average, exceeding previous findings in cosmetics.
Researchers have developed a biotechnological process to break down and remove the matrix from carbon fiber reinforced polymers (CFRPs), recovering valuable chemicals. Genetically modified fungi feed on benzoic acid produced during breakdown, yielding the compound OTA with potential medical applications.
Researchers create high-quality hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) films just one atom thick using a new growth method. The films exhibit excellent insulating properties and are suitable for high-performance electronic devices.
A novel physical reservoir computing device uses a dye-sensitized solar cell to mimic human synaptic elements, enabling efficient time-series data processing and low power consumption. The device achieved high computational performance in tasks such as human motion classification with over 90% accuracy.
A team of scientists has developed an aerogel made from chitosan and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose that addresses the dual challenge of tannery wastewater treatment and resource utilization. The aerogel demonstrates exceptional adsorption capacities for Cr(III), Al(III), and Zr(IV) ions, commonly found in tannery effluents.
A team led by laboratory manager Michael Haas from the Institute of Inorganic Chemistry at Graz University of Technology is researching new semiconductor materials. The focus is on functionalized hydrosilanes, which are considered a promising material for the future.
A new study from Duke University reveals that historic lithium mining is unlikely to contaminate surrounding waters with common pollutants like arsenic and lead. However, high levels of other metals including lithium, rubidium, and cesium were found in the mine's waters.
A team of researchers has developed Janus crystals that capture humidity from the air with high efficiency, enabling a spontaneous and energy-free process for collecting potable water. The discovery could provide an endless source of clean water, addressing global water scarcity issues.
Researchers at Technion have developed a new chemical process called triazenolysis to produce multifunctional amines useful in various applications. The process mimics ozonolysis but produces carbon-nitrogen bonds relevant to agriculture, pharmaceuticals and polymers
A team of scientists has determined that a meteorite from Mars, the Lafayette Meteorite, was exposed to liquid water 742 million years ago. The minerals in the meteorite formed when there was liquid water present on the Martian surface, providing insight into the planet's past.
Researchers at the University of São Paulo developed a novel nanotechnology-based solution to remove micro- and nanoplastics from water. The process uses magnetic nanoparticles that bind to tiny plastic particles and can be removed with a magnet.
The university introduces Bachelor of Engineering in Robotics and Double Major Bachelor of Engineering Science in Process Engineering and Synthetic Chemistry to address global demand for roboticists. The programs incorporate AI-related elements and are designed to provide students with a unique skill set.
Clinicians should avoid using 'never words' that can scare, offend, or diminish agency in patients and families dealing with serious illness. Researchers recommend alternative language and methods for clinicians to identify their own never words.
Researchers at Duke University have developed a polymer that can be used in commercial 3D printers without solvent, leading to major advantages across different applications. The new solvent-free material has been shown to improve mechanical properties while maintaining biodegradability.
Scientists estimate a 31% increase in global photosynthesis due to rising CO2 levels, with pan-tropical rainforests accounting for the largest difference. This improvement can enhance climate predictions and highlight the importance of natural carbon sequestration.
Researchers at North Carolina State University identify molecular property of lignin that determines ease of using microbial fermentation to turn trees into industrial chemicals. The discovery could lead to more sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based chemicals.
Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have discovered a new method to create high-performance alkaline batteries using iron and silicate. The process suppresses hydrogen gas generation, improving the energy efficiency of battery systems.
Researchers use tongue and groove technique inspired by ancient East Asian wooden structures to create advanced ceramic microparticles with unprecedented complexity and precision. These particles can be used in various applications across microelectronics, aerospace, energy, and medical engineering.
A process yielding record-high performing transistors from solution-deposited semiconductors has been developed, despite higher defect concentrations in the material. The researchers' work enables large-area applications and efficient processing, paving the way for high-performance electronics.
A new process developed by Lehigh University researchers uses evaporative ion exchange (EIX) to concentrate hypersaline brine at room temperature, avoiding scaling and fouling. The process has shown promising results in concentrating salts from hypersaline water, with the potential for widespread use.
A new study found that common breast cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery, can increase expression of aging markers in breast cancer survivors. The study suggests that these treatments can have a more extensive impact on the body than previously thought, leading to accelerated biological aging.
A new theory reveals that the solvent, not solute, is the dominant component in solution, leading to improved understanding of crystal formation. Thermodynamic phase diagrams demonstrate that crystals grow through a melt-like intermediate before organizing into a crystal structure.
Researchers are working on a new method for preserving microbial samples using microfluidics, biomaterials, and protein engineering. The goal is to improve biosurveillance and protect soldiers and civilians from infectious diseases.
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have developed innovative electrolytes that can improve the efficiency of electrochemical processes, including steel production. The new electrolytes are designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by eliminating energy-intensive blast furnaces.
Researchers found that Brazilian vegans' diets consisted mainly of unprocessed foods, with a significant reliance on ultra-processed proteins like textured soy protein to meet their protein needs. The study's findings contradict the stigma surrounding veganism and its ability to provide adequate nutrition.
Researchers identified key control sites regulating gene expression in cells, including those controlling ancient viral sequences. Mutating these sites caused defects in cell differentiation and survival, as well as spurious activation of genes across the genome.
A team from Kyushu University has developed a zeolite catalyst that can be heated using microwaves to speed up the conversion of fatty acid esters to olefins. This process improves energy efficiency and reduces carbon dioxide production, offering a more sustainable chemical industry.
A study by Virginia Tech undergraduate Megan O'Hara found that surface properties significantly influence bacterial twitching motility, allowing for rapid colonization and infection. By manipulating surface properties with detergents like bile salts, researchers can alter the functionality of type IV pili, a critical virulence factor.
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.
Researchers at NREL create a novel resin called PECAN that performs on par with industry standards and outperforms certain thermoplastic resins. The process allows for the complete breakdown of blades in six hours, making it possible to recycle and reuse components.
Researchers developed MUSCLE, a method that combines single-molecule fluorescence microscopy with next-generation sequencing to profile complex biological processes. The technique enables simultaneous observation of vast arrays of samples, uncovering general trends and dynamic signatures.
A new study reveals a link between senescent cells and the protein HIRA, which helps pack and unpack DNA. The research team discovered that HIRA is necessary for the cells to begin emitting inflammatory molecules, leading to chronic inflammation in the body.
The study reveals that iron-bound organic carbon is remobilized during microbial-mediated iron reduction processes in the sulfate-methane transition zone, supporting microbial life. A stable proportion of total organic carbon survives degradation and is stored in marine sediments over geological time periods.
Researchers at the University of Liverpool have achieved a significant milestone in converting carbon dioxide into valuable fuels and chemicals. They report a pioneering plasma-catalytic process for the hydrogenation of CO2 to methanol at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, achieving impressive selectivity rates.