Articles tagged with Chemical Processes
A team of geologists from TU Graz identified the chemical influencing factors and triggers for recurrent mass movements in fine-grained sediments, enabling preventive measures to be taken. By adapting drainage systems and considering interactions between the system and subsurface, stability can be increased and economic damage reduced.
Researchers at Queensland University of Technology and Ghent University have developed a green light-stabilised 3D polymer structure that folds itself when exposed to light and unfolds when left in the dark. This process consumes light as fuel, mimicking the way proteins function in living organisms.
Two studies on foxgloves published by University at Buffalo biologist Zhen Wang investigate the production of cardiac glycosides. The research aims to improve the time-consuming and labor-intensive process of farming foxgloves, which currently takes two years to produce a small amount of the compound digoxin.
A new method using bubble-attracting sheets of specially textured mesh can significantly reduce or eliminate foamy bubbles in industrial processes. The system works by attracting and shedding bubbles, allowing them to dissipate quickly and reducing the need for chemical additives.
Researchers have developed a process to transform waste sugar cane and wheat straw into valuable chemicals, increasing value by 5000-fold. The new method produces high-value building blocks for food industry and pharmaceuticals directly from waste biomass in a single 'one-pot' process.
The KAUST team developed porous membranes from recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), reducing the energy used in chemical separation processes. The membranes can withstand high temperatures and separate molecules of different sizes.
Researchers at Georgia Tech have developed a new type of membrane that can separate chemicals without using heat or energy-intensive distillation processes. The hybrid membrane, infused with metal oxide networks, improves chemical separation capabilities and withstands harsh solvents for several months.
Scientists have created nanocubes that can form stable cubes at specific temperatures, then scramble back into individual components when heated or cooled. This self-assembly ability mimics life's chemical processes, enabling the creation of complex systems.
The U.S. Department of Energy has awarded Argonne National Laboratory a $30 million grant to study ultrafast chemical processes on timescales of quadrillionths of a second. Researchers will use X-ray free-electron lasers to capture molecular movies, enhancing energy efficiency and applications in optoelectronics and solar energy.
A study led by Michigan Technological University explores mercury pollution in the Great Lakes, particularly in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. The research focuses on policy scenarios to reduce mercury emissions and provides insights into regional remediation efforts and fish safety for local communities.
Researchers found that Costa Rican paper wasps' brains follow biological rule when overall brain size increases, but specific subregions don't. Complex brain structures like mushroom bodies and antennal lobes decrease in proportional size in smaller-bodied wasps.
A new study published in Nature Communications reveals that DNA molecules move faster as they enter a nanopore and slower when exiting, due to buckling under compressive forces. This finding could inform the design of biosensors and have real-world applications in polymer properties measurement.
Researchers at Yale University have developed a novel chemical process to create a new class of antibiotics, which could help combat growing resistance. The discovery uses simple commercial chemicals to produce molecules related to the natural product pleuromutilin.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have developed a new technology that mimics imprint processes used in industrial manufacturing, creating nanowire-array structures similar to those found in touch-screens for sensors, computers, phones, and TVs. The pressure-based fabrication process is faster and more environmentally friendl...
A prototype device has been developed to remove asphaltenes from crude oil, addressing costly pipeline blockages. The device uses electrokinetics to attract and remove the solidified molecules, improving flow rates and reducing pressure requirements.
Recent advances in understanding regulatory mechanisms of HH pathway and chemical regulation are discussed. CAS scientists propose a hypothetical model for endogenous chemical modulation and suggest precise interventions for better therapeutic outcomes.
A Scottish startup is scaling up its whisky waste-to-fuel process, converting draff and pot ale into ethanol and 1-butanol. The company has secured funding from the UK government and private investors to move towards a commercial plant.
A study found hydraulic fracturing triggered a series of small earthquakes in Harrison County, Ohio, coinciding with operations at nearby wells. The 10 positive magnitude earthquakes, ranging from 1.7 to 2.2, revealed an east-west trending fault beneath the gas wells.
NYU researchers have engineered a protein that can detoxify organophosphates, commonly used in pesticides and warfare agents. The protein has increased stability and half-life, making it suitable for therapeutic applications, including preventing nerve damage from gas attacks or pesticide exposure.
Researchers at Queen Mary University of London have discovered a new chemical to aid drug manufacturing processes, making it more environmentally-friendly and easier to scale up for industry. The team found that a positively charged molecule known as TMA can replace silver in the manufacturing process, reducing costs and waste.
Researchers from NC State University have developed a safety testing system called TiPED to help chemists design inherently safer chemicals. The system aims to identify potential endocrine disruptors before they are used in commercial products, benefiting consumers and reducing exposure to harmful chemicals.
Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have discovered a chemical that can mature small eggs to healthy, mature eggs, offering new hope for women struggling with infertility. The breakthrough could provide an alternative method to preserving fertility in girls who have not yet reached puberty.
The AkzoNobel North America Science Award recognizes outstanding scientific contributions in chemistry and materials research, with a focus on sustainability. The award winner will receive a $75,000 cash prize and be honored at the ACS' National Meeting & Exposition in New Orleans.
Researchers at Michigan State University discovered that male songbirds use scent to attract both female and male mates through the 'Axe effect'. Female birds preferred the odor of smaller males, while larger males overcompensate with greater amounts of an attractive scent.
A new study published in Biotechnology Journal reveals a cheaper and more efficient method for treating dyed denim, eliminating the need for hazardous sandblasting techniques. The surface activation technique reduces fabric strength decay, shortens wash-down processes, and minimizes chemical usage.
A new study from UCSF found that virtually all pregnant women in the US are exposed to multiple chemicals, including some banned since the 1970s. The study identified over 163 chemicals, with many linked to adverse health outcomes such as preterm birth and childhood morbidity.
Scientists have discovered a key role for the GC-D necklace subsystem in mice's ability to detect safe food based on social scent. This breakthrough adds to evidence that smell is comprised of multiple parts with specialized functions, highlighting a complex communication process between animals through breathing.
Researchers at University of Wisconsin-Madison developed a two-step method to convert cellulose in raw biomass into a promising biofuel. The new process simultaneously bypasses lignin and produces a high yield, making it a promising alternative to fossil fuels.
New study analyzes commercially made carbon nanotubes, finding vastly different compositions and potential emissions of toxic chemicals. Researchers aim to work proactively with industry to prevent environmental mistakes, highlighting the need for better understanding and regulation of nanotechnology manufacturing processes.
Researchers found that acetylcholine enhances visual processing by selectively enhancing information in the brain's visual cortex. This enhancement allows neurons to detect and signal stimuli below detection threshold, a process similar to how attention strengthens signals.
A study by Dutch researchers identified four cases of bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome (BOS) among workers at a chemical plant producing diacetyl, a key component of butter flavoring. The findings support the conclusion that an agent in the diacetyl production process has caused BOS.
A study by Oregon State University researchers identified a soldier beetle preserved in amber, showcasing an ancient chemical defense response. The discovery indicates that this type of protective mechanism has been around for over 100 million years.
A simple oxygen treatment can extend the shelf life of organic produce, reducing losses and costs. This technique has shown promise in preventing scald formation and physiological diseases in apples, with potential applications for other organic fruits and vegetables.
A long-term study found that salamander exposure to atrazine had persistent effects on mortality rates, even after recovery. Survivors of the exposure suffered lower survival rates compared to those not exposed to atrazine.
A new process combines molecular self-assembly with traditional lithography to create multifunctional surfaces in precise patterns. This technique allows for complex patterns of functional monolayers, enabling applications beyond semiconductors.
A new approach eliminates some steps in conventional tanning, resulting in substantial production efficiencies and a significant reduction in pollutants. The reverse process produces comparable leather with 42% less time, 54% fewer chemicals, 42% less energy, 65% less water and up to 79% fewer emissions.
Nanofluidic transistors, the basis of future chemical processors, have been successfully created by researchers. These devices can control fluid flow without moving parts, enabling applications such as cancer diagnosis and biomolecular sensing.
Aplysia sea slugs release an inky secretion that activates feeding pathways in spiny lobsters, stimulating grooming and avoidance behaviors. This novel defense strategy, called phagomimicry, enhances the effectiveness of the slug's escape by distracting the lobster with misleading cues.
McGill researchers identified a link between heat-induced breakdown of amino acids and sugars in food, producing the potential carcinogen furan. Traces of furan have been found in processed and cooked products, particularly canned and bottled foods, but quantities are below considered dangerous thresholds.
Virginia Tech researchers have developed a chemical process to extract ethanol and xylitol from cotton gin residue. This technology has the potential to create a new industry in the state's cotton-growing region, providing a solution to the problem of residue disposal.
A new imaging technique reveals the presence of a previously unknown organelle called a retinosome, which houses retinyl esters essential to the regeneration process. The discovery could lead to better understanding and treatment of congenital blindness caused by defects in the retinoid cycle.
Researchers at NC State University have developed a new process for creating superhydrophobic polymer surfaces that are longer-lasting and more environmentally friendly. By increasing the surface area of a flexible material before attaching coating molecules, they can achieve superior water resistance and durability without using solve...
Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed a patented process for encapsulating depleted uranium oxides in thermoplastic polymers, creating a stable and safe material for long-term disposal. The new process also enables the production of radiation shielding and counterweights with low residual radioactivity.
Investigations reveal that matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a crucial role in communication between disc cells and macrophages, facilitating resorption. The discovery may lead to injectable therapies that encourage natural macrophage activity, offering a non-surgical alternative for herniated discs.
Researchers have demonstrated a faster and safer approach to cancer vaccine therapy, producing encouraging results in melanoma patients. The new method involves using circulating white blood cells and moderate doses of IL-12, showing promise for treating advanced melanoma.
Wine flavor and aroma are influenced by grape composition and tannins, according to Dr. Ernie Simpson. The presentation will also explore the potential health benefits of moderate wine consumption.
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a processing method that preserves soy's health benefits in breakfast cereals and snacks. The extrusion process helps retain isoflavones, which are linked to reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory report a natural process that removes nearly all toxic metals and uranium from polluted soil, successfully cleaning incinerator ash. The patented process uses citric acid and sunlight to separate metal contaminants from radioactive elements, producing a concentrated and stable form.
A four-year study by Cornell University and the University of California, Davis, found that monitoring early carbon monoxide emissions can help increase efficiency and prevent odors in municipal composting. The study identifies carbon monoxide as a reliable predictor of pending objectionable odors.
The USDA has developed Z-Trim, a low-cost agricultural byproduct-based fat substitute with a smooth mouth feel. It can supply important texture qualities in foods like cheese products and baked goods, reducing calories by up to 700 per day.