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Light spurs bond activation by main-group elements

Scientists have discovered a new method to enable oxidative addition of aryl halides at group 13 elements using visible light. This breakthrough could lead to sustainable catalytic processes reducing the need for rare and expensive transition metals.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 2, 2026
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Mizzou researchers shine UV light on the future of computer chips

Researchers at the University of Missouri have created a more efficient method for manufacturing computer chips using ultraviolet-enabled atomic layer deposition (UV-ALD). This approach reduces the number of manufacturing steps, saving time and materials, while also minimizing the use of harmful chemicals.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateJul 29, 2025

New, non-toxic synthesis method for “miracle material” MXene

Researchers at TU Wien have developed a new electrochemical synthesis method for MXene, overcoming the difficulties of producing this 'miracle material'. The new process uses electricity instead of toxic hydrofluoric acid, allowing for safer and more sustainable production.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 14, 2025
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Cleverly designed carbon nanohoop enables controlled release of iron

A team of researchers has developed a molecular system that enables the controlled release of iron, using a carbon nanohoop and ferrocene as the iron carrier. The system allows for the release of Fe2+ ions upon activation with green light.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeObservational study·DateMar 26, 2025

X-ray snapshot: How light bends an active substance

Researchers used X-ray light to analyze the structure of 2-thiouracil, a substance with medically relevant properties. The study found that UV radiation causes the molecule to bend, resulting in the protrusion of the sulfur atom and making it reactive.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Chemistry: Triple bond formed between boron and carbon for the first time

Researchers at University of Wúrzburg have synthesized a molecule with a boron-carbon triple bond, a long-sought achievement in chemistry. The new molecule, called a boryne, exists as an orange solid at room temperature and has sparked interest in its reactivity.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·JournalNature Synthesis·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2025

New insights on radical trapping in 12-phosphatetraphene uncovered

Researchers utilized muon spin rotation spectroscopy to investigate the regioselective muoniation of peri-trifluoromethylated 12-phosphatetraphene 1, revealing a highly reactive muoniated radical at the phosphorus site. The study provided detailed insights into the structure and dynamics of the radical.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2025

Structural color shields: water repellent coatings

Researchers developed a novel coating material that captures the brilliance of structural colors using melanin particles, producing non-iridescent color even when viewed from different angles. The coatings displayed a contact angle of over 160 degrees, monochromatic hues, and a self-cleaning surface.

SourceChiba University·JournalMacromolecular Reaction Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2025

New ceramic catalyst uses sodium and boron to drive sustainable industrial reactions

Researchers developed a sodium-doped amorphous silicon-boron-nitride catalyst that enhances reactivity and stability under harsh conditions. The material enables reversible hydrogen adsorption and desorption, making it a promising catalyst for sustainable industrial reactions.

SourceNagoya Institute of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 21, 2025
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.

Nature’s instructions: How fungi make a key medicinal molecule

Researchers from the University of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science have discovered a previously unreported enzyme that catalyzes the creation of cyclopentachromone-containing compounds. This breakthrough could potentially lead to the development of new pharmaceuticals for treating cancer and inflammation.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2024

Chemists showcase power of pathbreaking method to make complex molecules

Chemists at Emory University and Caltech have developed a revolutionary strategy for functionalizing carbon-hydrogen bonds, transforming low-cost materials into complex building blocks of organic chemistry. The breakthrough enables the synthesis of complex natural molecules with antimicrobial properties.

SourceEmory University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 7, 2024

UVA researchers develop new coatings to boost turbine engine efficiency

A University of Virginia-led research team has developed new protective coatings that allow turbine engines to run at higher temperatures before components begin to fail. The coatings were created using rare earth oxides and have shown improved performance without complex multi-layer coatings.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScripta Materialia·DateOct 23, 2024
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.

Montana State researcher studies nano-scale materials that mimic enzymes to convert CO2 into chemical building blocks

A Montana State University researcher has developed nano-scale materials that can convert carbon dioxide into chemical building blocks, marking a potential step forward in reducing atmospheric CO2. The materials mimic enzymes and have the ability to selectively capture CO2 from the air.

SourceMontana State University·JournalACS Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2024

Researchers shed light on how key ingredient for life may form in space

A team of researchers from the University of Maryland has developed a novel way to produce and observe carbenes, a class of highly reactive molecules necessary for life. They successfully formed a carbene called hydroxymethylene (HCOH) by breaking down methanol with pulses of ultraviolet radiation.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2024
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Bendable energy storage materials by cool science

Researchers developed mesoporous metal oxides on flexible materials using synergetic effect of heat and plasma at lower temperatures. The devices can withstand bending thousands of times without losing energy storage performance.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 18, 2024

Fast-charging lithium-sulphur batteries on the horizon

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have developed a new nanocomposite electrocatalyst that enables lithium-sulphur batteries to achieve full charge/discharge in less than five minutes. This breakthrough has significant implications for high-performance battery systems and energy storage technologies.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 17, 2024

Carnegie Mellon researchers develop new machine learning method for modeling of chemical reactions

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have created a new machine learning model that can simulate reactive processes in diverse organic materials and conditions. The model, called ANI-1xnr, performs simulations with significantly less computing power and time than traditional quantum mechanics models.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 7, 2024
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.

Can't un-cook an egg

Researchers at Kyoto University developed a new reactant demonstrating efficacy on proteins with drug-resistant mutations. The new inhibitor, ArNASA, reacts with lysine residues and is highly stable in physiological environments.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJACS·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2023

The little things matter: Chemists develop new sensor for microvolume pH detection

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.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalMicrochimica Acta·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 3, 2023

Toxic formaldehyde’s dual nature to be probed with new chemical tool

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.

SourceUniversity of Leicester·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

Observing the long-postulated intermediate of catalytic amination reactions

Researchers used X-ray photocrystallography to study the transition metal-nitrenoid intermediate in catalytic amination reactions. The team successfully captured the structure and properties of the rhodium-acylnitrenoid intermediate, providing crucial insights into its reactivity.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 20, 2023
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

How mercury emissions from industry can be greatly reduced

Scientists at Chalmers University of Technology have created a new method for removing mercury from concentrated sulphuric acid, reducing levels by more than 90%. This innovation could lead to reduced mercury emissions and the production of high-purity, non-toxic products in industries such as mining and metal refining.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalACS ES&T Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 4, 2023

Towards synthesis of phenanthridine-based pharmaceutical compounds

A team of researchers has developed a promising synthesis method for producing 6-(difluoromethyl)phenanthridines, which hold tremendous potential for drug development. The study uses aryl-substituted difluoromethylborates and radical isonitrile insertion to form phenanthridine.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalThe Journal of Organic Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2023

A new path for quantum physics to control chemical reactions

Researchers have successfully controlled chemical reactions by manipulating electromagnetic fields in an infrared cavity, improving understanding of reactivity and products formation. The discovery offers a new path for quantum physics to regulate chemical reactions.

SourceMillenium Institute for Research in Optics·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 15, 2023
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Scientists reveal breakthrough that could lead to cleaner hydrogen energy

Scientists have discovered a new method for producing pure hydrogen from renewable energy, a significant step towards a greener future. The breakthrough uses specialized techniques to understand how a catalyst works, enabling the creation of clean fuels like hydrogen.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 16, 2023

Chemists unravel reaction mechanism for clean energy catalyst

Researchers at Brookhaven Lab used pulse radiolysis to study a key class of water-splitting catalysts, revealing the direct involvement of ligands in the reaction mechanism. The team discovered that a hydride group jumped onto the Cp* ligand, proving its active role in the process.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 15, 2023

Customizing catalysts for solid-state reactions

Chemists have developed a high-performance catalyst specifically designed for solid-state mechanochemical synthesis, achieving efficient reactivity at near room temperature. The approach uses a metal catalyst attached to a long polymer molecule, which traps the catalyst in a fluid-phase, enabling fast and energy-efficient reactions.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2023

Researchers at Paderborn University discover new superacid

Scientists at Paderborn University have developed a new catalyst, known as Lewis superacid, to break strong chemical bonds and speed up reactions. This breakthrough enables the conversion of non-biodegradable greenhouse gases into sustainable chemicals.

SourceUniversität Paderborn·JournalApplied Chemistry·DateFeb 27, 2023

It takes two: cooperating catalysts provide new route for utilizing formate salts

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a new method using cooperating catalysts to perform challenging dearomative carboxylation reactions. This process enables the production of α-amino acids, which are potentially useful for drug development, and offers greater freedom in designing and synthesizing molecules with carboxyl ...

SourceHokkaido University·JournalACS Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2023
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.

Metalloradical catalysis guides new cobalt-based system that exploits unique features of homolytic radical reaction

Researchers at Boston College have developed a new catalytic approach that enables concurrent control of multiple convergences and selectivities in intermolecular amination of allylic carbon-hydrogen bonds in alkenes. The cobalt-based system exploits unique features of homolytic radical reaction to form desired amine products in a high...

SourceBoston College·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2023

Unusual painting -- Unusual lead compound

A team of researchers identified a rare lead compound, lead(II) formate, in various areas of Rembrandt's The Night Watch using micro and macro X-ray analysis. This discovery provides clues about the artist's pictorial practices and the reactivity of lead driers in historical paintings.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

SwRI-contributed study provides darkest view ever of interstellar ices

Researchers utilized the James Webb Space Telescope to observe dense interstellar clouds, revealing a treasure trove of pristine ices from the early universe. The study provides new insights into chemical processes in one of the coldest places in the universe, offering clues on molecular origins and sulfur storage.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateJan 23, 2023
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.

One-pot reaction creates versatile building block for bioactive molecules

Chemists at the University of Groningen have developed a simple one-pot reaction to produce chiral Z-alkenes, previously inaccessible molecules. This method uses a phosphine molecule as a starting point, reducing the need for purification and allowing for the creation of complex functionalised alkenes.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2023

Nanoplastics unexpectedly produce reactive oxidizing species when exposed to light

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis found that nanoplastics from polystyrene can produce reactive oxygen species when exposed to light, which can harm wildlife and the aquatic ecosystem. The study suggests that smaller particle sizes of nanoplastics may be more reactive and decompose faster under light.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 6, 2023

Media Tip: Scientists enhance recyclability of post-consumer plastic

Researchers have developed a new method for recycling high-density polyethylene (HDPE) into fully recyclable and biodegradable material. The approach uses catalysts to cleave polymer chains, reducing carbon emissions and pollution associated with HDPE.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateDec 22, 2022

Baylor Chemistry researchers synthesize new groundbreaking compound

Researchers at Baylor University have synthesized a new, one-step Lewis superacid called tris(ortho-carboranyl)borane (BoCb3), which has applications in the production of common plastics. The compound is more efficient to produce, safer for the environment, and could potentially save billions of dollars in manufacturing costs.

SourceBaylor University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Water cleanup method developed by University of California, Riverside, scientists destroys pervasive, cancer-causing “forever chemicals” or PFAS

Researchers at the University of California, Riverside, have created a novel method to break down per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as 'forever chemicals', in contaminated water. The hydrogen-infusion and UV light-based process achieves high molecular destruction rates without generating unwanted byproducts.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2022

A radical new approach in synthetic chemistry

Researchers use pulse radiolysis experiments to measure how unpaired electrons can drive chemical reactivity on a molecule's opposite side, enabling the creation of novel synthetic methodologies. The study demonstrates the potential for free radicals to influence reactivity beyond their site of origin.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2022

Simplified process shines light on new catalyst opportunities

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a simple radical-based reaction to create unsymmetric variants of molecular compounds used in transition metal catalysts. This method opens up new avenues for designing catalysts and utilizes abundant ethylene feedstock.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2022
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

A new way of fabricating high-efficiency diffraction gratings for astronomical spectroscopy

Researchers develop a new way to manufacture high-efficiency diffraction gratings using reactive ion-plasma etching, achieving near-theoretical unpolarized diffraction efficiency of 94.3%. The process enables robust and durable gratings suitable for harsh environments.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Astronomical Telescopes Instruments and Systems·DateNov 10, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Rethinking indoor air chemistry

High levels of OH radicals can be generated indoors due to human presence and ozone, transforming chemicals in the process. This 'oxidation field' has significant implications for indoor air quality and occupant health.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemistry·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2022

Three strikes and acid is out

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new protocol for synthesizing dialkyl ethers using three catalysts that hydroxylate alkenes quickly and cheaply. This method enables the precise control of electrons and protons to convert unactivated alkenes into reactive carbocation equivalents under mild reaction conditions.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2022

An easier and safer way to synthesize medicines

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed a new method to synthesize medicines using carbenes, reducing the need for explosive intermediates. This breakthrough could enable faster production of cyclopropanes, a key ingredient in COVID-19 treatments and other medications.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2022

Process to customize molecules does double duty

Researchers at Rice University have developed a chemical process that can add two distinct functional groups to single alkenes, a breakthrough in drug design and materials science. The process uses manganese catalysts and photocalysts to enable radical ligand transfer, allowing for the creation of unique molecules.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 22, 2022
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

NIST study gives animal testing alternatives a confidence boost

Researchers at NIST developed a new, faster, and more accessible method for screening skin allergens without animal testing. The electrophilic allergen screening assay (EASA) achieved similar results to existing methods with 77% agreement rate, paving the way for potential standardization and increased international trade.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalToxics·DateMay 17, 2022