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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.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalACS Applied Engineering Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 2025

Don’t use your battery until it runs out!

A recent study identified a quasi-conversion reaction on the cathode surface during discharging, leading to accelerated battery degradation. High nickel content exacerbates this effect.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateMar 31, 2025
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.

Engineers develop a better way to deliver long-lasting drugs

The researchers have created a way to deliver certain drugs in higher doses with less pain by injecting them as a suspension of tiny crystals. This approach can enable long-term delivery of contraceptives or treatments for diseases such as HIV, reducing the need for frequent injections.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Chemical Engineering·DateMar 24, 2025

Researchers create eco-friendly detergent from wood fiber and corn protein

Researchers developed a natural detergent using cellulose nanofibers from wood and zein protein from corn, effective in removing various stains without leaving residues. The new detergent outperformed commercial products in some tests, suggesting a potential sustainable alternative to synthetic cleaning agents.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalLangmuir·DateMar 21, 2025

Amino acid assists in recycling rechargeable batteries

A Chinese research team has developed a new strategy for recycling spent lithium-ion batteries using a hydrometallurgical process in neutral solution. The addition of glycine improves the leaching efficiency, allowing for the extraction of valuable metals such as lithium, nickel, cobalt, and manganese with high accuracy.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 11, 2025

Designing homochiral metal–organic frameworks with ultrahigh surface areas and stability for practical applications

A novel mixed-ligand strategy creates ultrahigh surface area, chemically stable chiral MOFs ideal for practical applications in asymmetric catalysis. The frameworks demonstrate record-breaking surface areas and exceptional structural features, making them suitable as heterogeneous catalysts.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2025
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Engineers discover key barrier to longer-lasting batteries

University of Texas at Dallas researchers have discovered why LiNiO2 batteries break down during charging and are testing a solution to remove the key barrier to widespread use. They developed a theoretical solution that reinforces the material by adding a positively charged ion, creating pillars to strengthen the cathode.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 13, 2025

Low-cost synthesis of pearlescent pigments achieved using vanadium phosphates

Researchers have developed a low-cost method for producing pearlescent pigments using vanadium phosphates, which are stable in organic solvents and environmentally friendly. The process produces glossy, iridescent pigments with high aspect ratios and can be tailored to achieve specific colors and finishes.

SourceTohoku University·JournalJournal of Alloys and Compounds·DateFeb 9, 2025

Observing ozonated water’s effectiveness against SARS-CoV-2 in saliva

Researchers investigated ozonated water's impact on SARS-CoV-2 in saliva, discovering that protein concentrations like amylase and mucin decrease ozone stability and effectiveness. This study provides insights into the applicability of ozonated water for disinfection in real-world settings.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalJournal of Hospital Infection·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 2025
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Green tea-based adhesive films show promise as a novel treatment for oral mucositis

Researchers developed mucoadhesive films combining xyloglucan and green tea extract to treat oral mucositis, a painful inflammation caused by cancer treatment. The films demonstrated high strength and adhesion forces comparable to commercial products, showing promise as a novel treatment for oral mucositis.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalACS Omega·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 22, 2025

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.

SourceUniversità di Bologna·JournalChem·DateDec 27, 2024

What are the effects of historic lithium mining on water quality?

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.

SourceDuke University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2024

Fighting microplastics for a cleaner future

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a method to break down condensation polymers in plastics using solvents and liquid organic hydrogen carriers, producing aromatic compounds that can be used as fuels. This breakthrough has potential implications for the sustainability of the chemical industry and reducing global warming.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 11, 2024
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.

Ordered defects may be key for solution-deposited semiconductors, enabling high-speed printable circuits and next-generation displays

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.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 10, 2024

New cooling system works on gravity instead of electricity

Researchers at KAUST have developed a new cooling system that extracts water from the air using gravity, eliminating the need for electricity. The system can double the rate of water collection compared to alternative technologies and offers significant energy savings.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 29, 2024

Exploring ternary metal sulfides as electrocatalyst for carbon dioxide reduction reactions

Researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a novel screening methodology using machine learning to identify key design guidelines for ternary metal sulfide electrocatalysts. Focusing on crystal structure leads to better results, overcoming challenges in material properties and electrochemical performance analysis.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New filtration material could remove long-lasting chemicals from water

A new filtration material developed by MIT researchers uses natural silk and cellulose to remove persistent chemicals, including PFAS and heavy metals. The material's antimicrobial properties help keep filters clean, providing a nature-based solution to water contamination.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 5, 2024

Turning glycerol into gold: a new process makes biodiesel more profitable

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a highly selective and efficient glycerol electrooxidation process that converts waste into high-value three-carbon compounds. Higher borate concentrations improved selectivity for these products, reducing the need for additional processing.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 3, 2024

Frozen? Let it melt with efficient new deicer friendly to the environment

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University developed a machine learning-based deicer that offers higher performance while minimizing environmental harm. The new mixture of propylene glycol and sodium formate solution shows improved ice penetration capacity, reducing the need for substance use.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 7, 2024

Repeated thoracic paravertebral blocking to alleviate pain symptoms in 66-years-old man with post-herpetic neuralgia: A case report

A case report describes the successful use of thoracic paravertebral blocking to manage severe chronic pain associated with post-herpetic neuralgia. The procedure, involving repeated injections of levobupivacaine and dexamethasone, resulted in significant pain subsidence and reduced medication needs.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Anesthesia Journal·DateMay 31, 2024
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.

Cleaned surfaces may be germ-free, but they’re not bare

Researchers found that commercial cleaning products deposit a wide range of compounds on cleaned surfaces, which can impact indoor air quality. The study suggests that these residues should be studied in more detail to understand their effects on film growth and behavior.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS ES&T Air·DateFeb 8, 2024

Solving an age-old mystery about crystal formation

University of Houston researcher Peter Vekilov discovers two-step incorporation into crystals, mediated by an intermediate state, solving a 40-year-old riddle. The new paradigm guides the search for solvents and additives to stabilize the intermediate state and slow down unwanted polymorphs.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2024

Liverpool chemists solve long-standing polymer science puzzle

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have made a groundbreaking discovery in polymer science, providing new insights into how polymer chains respond to accelerated solvent flows. This breakthrough has significant implications for various areas of physical sciences and industrial processes, including enhanced oil and gas recovery ...

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalNature Chemistry·DateSep 18, 2023

Newly discovered fungus helps destroy a harmful food toxin

A newly discovered fungus has been found to transform the toxic compound patulin into less harmful byproducts, offering potential solutions for controlling its presence in food products. The fungus, identified as Acremonium sp., was shown to degrade patulin into desoxypatulinic acid and other compounds, which are significantly less toxic.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalMicrobiologyOpen·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 31, 2023

BESSY II: Surface analysis of catalyst particles in aqueous solutions

Researchers investigate how water molecules react with or on nanoparticle surfaces in aqueous solutions. They found that acidic conditions cause water molecules to split on hematite nanoparticles, while basic pH is required for anatase nanoparticles.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAccounts of Chemical Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2023
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.

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

The correlation between the structures of bimetallic tartrate complexes in solutions for laser-induced synthesis and sensor characteristics of microbiosensors materials

Researchers discovered bimetallic tartrate complexes with unique structures, formed by insufficient ligand, leading to improved sensor characteristics for microbiosensors. The study showcases the potential of laser-induced chemical liquid phase deposition for creating nanostructures with various applications.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Organocatalysis·DateJul 11, 2023

A new dynamic probe of electric forces between molecules

Scientists have developed a new dynamic probe to measure electric interactions between molecules and the environment. Using ultrashort terahertz pulses, they mapped the optical absorption of molecules in an external electric field, revealing the strength and dynamics of these forces.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 12, 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.

New recipes for better solar fuel production

A team of researchers from China and the UK has developed new ways to optimise the production of solar fuels by creating novel photocatalysts. These photocatalysts, such as titanium dioxide with boron nitride, can absorb more wavelengths of light and produce more hydrogen compared to traditional methods.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalApplied Surface Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2023

You can make carbon dioxide filters with a 3D printer

Researchers at NC State University have developed a novel method for creating CO2 capture filters using 3D printing. The filters, made from a hydrogel material infused with the enzyme carbonic anhydrase, captured 24% of CO2 in a gas mixture and retained 52% of its performance after over 1,000 hours. This technology has potential applic...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalGels·DateMay 31, 2023

Upcycling method turns textile trash to functional coatings

A new method allows researchers to break down old clothing chemically and reuse polyester compounds to create functional coatings. The process, known as controlled crystallization, enables the creation of fire-resistant, anti-bacterial or wrinkle-free coatings that can be applied to various fabrics.

SourceCornell University·DateMay 2, 2023

Pioneering MRI imaging method captures brain glucose metabolism without the need for administration of radioactive substances

A new MRI approach uses harmless glucose solution to map brain glucose metabolism, generating reliable results and potentially improving diagnosis of conditions like Alzheimer's and cancer. Further studies are needed to confirm the findings and deploy this less-invasive method for patients.

SourceMedical University of Vienna·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateApr 28, 2023
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Chemists tackle the tough challenge of recycling mixed plastics

Researchers at Colorado State University have created a new chemical strategy to deliver universal dynamic crosslinkers into mixed plastic streams, transforming them into viable new polymers that can be turned into higher-value materials. The method makes post-consumer plastics usable as a new kind of material with useful properties.

SourceColorado State University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2023

Using optics to trace the flow of microplastics in oceans

Researchers from China and Singapore study the radiative properties of polyamide-12, a common marine microplastic pollutant. They found that most of the incident radiation is scattered by PA12 particles, affecting ocean light transmission and marine ecology.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalOptical Engineering·DateMar 21, 2023

Pusan National University researchers develop portable color-changing food spoilage sensor

Researchers at Pusan National University have created a portable molecular sensor that detects biogenic amines released from spoiled food using polydiacetylene-based beads. The sensor, which changes color to red upon binding with BAs, can be used for rapid visual detection of spoiled food during storage and distribution.

SourcePusan National University·JournalFood Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2023

Some stirring required: fluid mixing enables scalable manufacturing of soft polymer structures

The new technique allows for the production of a dozen different soft polymer material morphologies, including ribbons, nanoscale sheets, rods, and branched particles. By precisely controlling three sets of parameters during manufacturing, researchers can fine-tune the morphology of polymeric materials at the micro- and nano-scale.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Tsunami in a water glass

Hydrated electrons play a significant role in various processes, and researchers have observed their effect on the water solution. The study reveals that the electron causes a 'water quake' or 'tsunami,' which is caused by sudden charge separation during its formation.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023

Leipzig researchers develop efficient process for chemical terpene synthesis

A team of scientists developed a simplified and efficient method for artificial production of terpenes, using fluorinated alcohol catalyst solutions. This approach allows targeted production of natural substances from simple starting materials, offering potential applications in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical industries.

SourceUniversität Leipzig·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023

Mashing molecules: An innovative solution towards greener pharmaceuticals

The IMPACTIVE project aims to develop a sustainable alternative to traditional pharmaceutical production methods. By leveraging mechanochemistry, the team hopes to reduce waste and emissions in the industry. The initiative has already shown promising results, with potential cost savings of up to 12%.

SourceAgata Comunicación Científica SL·DateFeb 15, 2023

Stability of perovskite solar cells reaches next milestone

Researchers have developed a chemical variation that significantly improves the stability of perovskite thin films in solar cells, achieving efficiencies of up to 24.6%. The new coating, b-pV2F, wraps around individual microcrystals like a soft shell, reducing thermal stress and increasing efficiency.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Micelles – the meeting place boosting reactions and interactions

Researchers discovered that positively charged micelles can significantly accelerate chemical reactions between like-charged molecules. By controlling the magnitude and spatial distribution of the electric charge on catalysts, reaction rates can be tuned within several orders of magnitude.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 24, 2023

‘Sound’ly segregated supramolecular helices

Researchers have successfully segregated oppositely helical supramolecular polymers in a solution using audible sound, inducing surface vibrations and advection currents. This approach allows for the spatiotemporal control of chiral supramolecular systems, enabling the segregation of multiple aggregates.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalChem·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2022

Chemists developed cholesterol testing system

Scientists at Ural Federal University have developed a sensor device that determines cholesterol levels without using enzymes. The system uses copper chloride, making the process cheaper, easier, and faster than traditional methods.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalJournal of Electroanalytical Chemistry·DateNov 7, 2022

Shocking paint – let’s get cell in

Researchers from the Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, have developed a novel polymer-based solution that enables easy delivery of large molecules to cells. By applying hypertonic solutions, they can induce osmotic stress and relax the cell membrane, allowing for precise control over molecule transfer.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Colloid and Interface Science·DateSep 22, 2022
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

How far can a proton make its presence felt when embedded in water?

Researchers have gained insight into the electronic structure of hydrated proton complexes, revealing that three inner water molecules are drastically modified by the proton. The first hydration shell senses the electric field of the proton through Coulomb interactions.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 19, 2022

At the water’s edge: Self-assembling 2D materials at a liquid–liquid interface

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science create new method for producing heterolayer coordination nanosheets with improved properties and controllability. The study expands the diversity of 2D materials, enabling potential applications in optoelectronics and renewable energy.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 21, 2022
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.

Boron nitride nanotube fibers get real

Researchers at Rice University have successfully created the first heat-tolerant, stable fibers from boron nitride nanotubes using a wet-spinning process. The fibers assemble themselves into liquid crystals, making them easier to process and suitable for large-scale applications in aerospace, electronics, and energy-efficient materials.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 23, 2022

New lightweight material is stronger than steel

Researchers at MIT have developed a new material that is stronger than steel and as light as plastic, with potential applications in car parts, cell phones, bridges, and other structures. The material, called polyaramide, self-assembles into sheets and has unique properties, including high elastic modulus and impermeability to gases.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateFeb 2, 2022

Simple pH adjustment may enable a preventative Covid-19 nasal and throat spray

Researchers found that increasing the solution pH makes niclosamide effective against SARS-COV-2 virus replication. A lower dose of niclosamide can also positively affect airway cells without harming them. This could enable safe and effective nose and throat sprays with added protection.

SourceDuke University·JournalPharmaceutical Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2022

These tiny liquid robots never run out of juice as long as they have food

Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed water-walking liquid robots that can retrieve and deliver precious chemicals autonomously. The robots use chemistry to control buoyancy and do not require electrical energy, making them ideal for applications such as chemical synthesis and drug delivery.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2021
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.