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A new approach to drive batteries: safe, repairable, sustainable

Researchers at Graz University of Technology developed design guidelines for batteries in electric vehicles to increase safety, make repairs easier, and improve sustainability. The new designs facilitate recycling and reuse of damaged cells, reducing waste and conserving resources.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalSustainable Production and Consumption·TypeNews article·DateAug 13, 2026

Highly sensitive SWCNT-based pyroelectric phototransistors enable broadband room-temperature infrared detection

Researchers have developed a detector that delivers high sensitivity while operating at ordinary room temperature, using carbon nanotubes and a pyroelectric lithium niobate crystal. The device surpasses earlier graphene-based detectors by several orders of magnitude and offers a broad spectral range without cryogenic cooling.

SourceEditorial Office of Opto-Electronic Journals Group·JournalOpto-Electronic Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 14, 2026

SwRI, SMU collaborate to advance solid-state batteries

Researchers will address the unstable interface between lithium metal anode and solid electrolyte by engineering ultra-thin films to reduce degradation and resistance. The goal is to improve reliability and stability of solid-state batteries for electric vehicles, enabling faster charging and greater energy storage potential.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·DateJul 13, 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.

“Just remove the water?” The real culprit behind battery failure revealed

A Korean research team identified surface oxidation occurring during dehydration as the true cause of performance degradation in promising next-generation battery materials. They developed a new liquid-phase bubbling dehydration process that suppresses surface oxidation and improves battery performance.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 1, 2026

New battery management system makes electric car batteries safer and more durable

A new battery management system developed in the EU project Nemo enables early damage detection and extends service life of electric car batteries. The system uses advanced sensor technology to monitor battery cells and predict aging, reducing the risk of internal short circuits and thermal peaks.

SourceGraz University of Technology·JournalJournal of Power Sources·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 18, 2026

MIT researchers develop a low-cost technique to get lithium out of rocks

Researchers at MIT have developed a low-temperature process to extract battery-grade lithium from hard rock minerals, minimizing waste and costs. The closed-loop system can produce useful materials, including lithium salts, alumina, and silica, with an estimated cost reduction of half compared to traditional methods.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateMay 28, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Sodium-ion batteries could become a low-cost rival to Tesla’s batteries

Researchers find popular sodium-ion battery matches performance parameters and production quality of Tesla's lithium-ion batteries. Tweaking the Hina battery to charge more effectively at low temperatures could provide a cost-effective alternative for future electric vehicle batteries.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 28, 2026

Hanyang University researchers identify 2.5 nanometers as the minimum effective coating thickness for longer-lasting solid-state EV batteries

Hanyang University researchers found that a coating thickness of 2.5 nanometers is necessary to prevent harmful side reactions in sulfide-based all-solid-state batteries. The study showed improved electrochemical performance and cycle life with this minimum effective coating thickness.

SourceHanyang University Research Strategy Planning Team·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2026

Better batteries begin with optimized slurry processing

A new method using rheo-impedance spectroscopy links slurry shear conditions to battery performance, enabling data-driven optimization and improved manufacturing efficiency. The study found an optimal 'sweet spot' in processing conditions that balances breaking up particle clusters with maintaining electrical pathways.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of Power Sources·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 2026

BESSY II: How intrinsic oxygen shortens the lifespan of solid-state batteries

Scientists analyzed a TiS2|Li3YCl6 half-cell in operando at BESSY II and discovered that intrinsic oxygen causes rapid capacity loss. Oxygen-containing species migrate to the cathode current collector, forming an amorphous layer rich in titanium oxides.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 11, 2026
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.

Understanding the short circuit in solid-state batteries

Max Planck researchers have discovered how microscopic dendrites induce fractures in solid-state batteries, leading to short circuits. By understanding the counterintuitive phenomenon of dendrite formation, they've identified potential strategies to prevent or delay cracking.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateApr 24, 2026

New uncertainty-aware AI framework could improve fuel cell degradation forecasting

Researchers developed an uncertainty-aware AI framework for predicting proton exchange membrane fuel cell degradation trends. The framework provides both point estimates and interval estimates with probability density information, improving the reliability of fuel-cell prognosis under realistic operating conditions.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalGreen Energy and Intelligent Transportation·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 13, 2026
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.

NSF CAREER Award supports research to create opportunity from nitrate pollution

A University of Virginia researcher is developing an alternative method to remove nitrate from wastewater by converting it into valuable chemical products. The project uses electrocatalysis and modulation excitation spectroscopy to optimize the conversion process, aiming to reduce energy consumption and environmental impact.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateMar 20, 2026

Non-destructive battery testing — New method developed with GSI participation

A new method has been developed to enable nondestructive diagnosis of the electrolyte in rechargeable batteries through the battery casing using special nuclear magnetic resonance techniques. The technique, known as ZULF NMR, allows for the direct detection and quantification of electrolyte components without damaging the battery.

SourceGSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung GmbH·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 5, 2026
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.

Plant-based hydrogel tames zinc dendrites, pushes aqueous batteries past 1 000 stable cycles

A new plant-based hydrogel has been developed to tackle the problem of metallic zinc growing needle-like dendrites that short-circuit cells within a few hundred cycles. The cellulose-nanofiber dual network boosts ion flow and mechanical strength, delivering a cheap and biodegradable electrolyte.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2026

Anode-free battery doubles electric vehicle driving range

Researchers developed an anode-free lithium metal battery that delivers nearly double driving range using the same battery volume. The battery's volumetric energy density of 1,270 Wh/L is nearly twice that of current lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 22, 2025
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.

Magnetic control of lithium enables a safe, explosion-free ‘dream battery’

A new hybrid anode technology has been developed that delivers higher energy storage while reducing thermal runaway and explosion risks. The 'magneto-conversion' strategy applies an external magnetic field to ferromagnetic manganese ferrite conversion-type anodes, promoting uniform lithium ion transport and preventing dendrite formation.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateDec 21, 2025

Aluminum prevents 'rapid aging' in high-energy batteries

Researchers from POSTECH found that aluminum reduces internal structural distortion in cathodes, preventing oxygen holes and shortening battery life. By adding a small amount of aluminum, the team extends battery lifespan while improving energy density.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateDec 5, 2025

Peat as a sustainable precursor for fuel cell catalyst materials

Researchers discovered that peat-based iron-nitrogen-carbon catalysts exhibit exceptional efficiency and selectivity in oxygen reduction reactions. The microstructure of these catalysts plays a crucial role in promoting the desired electrochemical reactions.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2025
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.

Two chemical reactions are better than one

A new kind of electrochemical system combines two chemical reactions, oxidation and hydrogenation, to produce renewable plastics and fine chemicals. The process achieves full conversion of plant-based molecules into the desired products with high efficiency and stability.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateOct 29, 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.

Smarter battery tech knows whether your EV will make it home

Researchers developed a new diagnostic metric called State of Mission (SOM) to predict EV battery performance based on both battery data and environmental factors. SOM significantly reduced prediction errors compared to traditional methods.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournaliScience·DateOct 7, 2025

Porous radical organic framework improves lithium-sulphur batteries

A team of researchers has developed a new material that enhances the capacity and stability of lithium-sulphur batteries by trapping polysulphides in open pores, reducing battery life shortening. The material improves Li-S battery performance to over 1,500 cycles with minimal capacity loss.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 2025
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Study: Most US homes can save money and affordably weather blackouts with solar plus storage

A new Stanford University study finds that most US households (60%) can reduce their electricity costs by 15% and weather local or regional blackouts with solar-battery systems. The systems would meet about half of the household's electricity needs on average, allowing them to save money or see no rise in costs.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 1, 2025

Solid-state batteries charge faster, last longer

Researchers have developed solid-state batteries that can charge in a fraction of the time and pack more energy into less space than traditional lithium-ion versions. These batteries use stable solid materials instead of liquid electrolytes, enabling faster charging, reduced safety risks, and improved efficiency.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNano Energy·DateJul 16, 2025

OU researchers improve stability, efficiency of electrochemical devices important to sustainable energy production

Researchers from the University of Oklahoma have made significant breakthroughs in protonic ceramic electrochemical cells (PCECs), addressing challenges in manufacturing and efficiency. A new approach eliminates cerium-based materials, allowing pure barium zirconate-based electrolytes to remain stable at record-low temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·JournalNature Synthesis·TypeObservational study·DateMay 12, 2025
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

New sensor could help prevent lithium-ion battery fires and explosions

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.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2025

Cations found to be the culprit behind degraded platinum electrodes

A collaboration between Japanese, Korean, and American researchers found that larger cations suppress platinum dissolution compared to smaller cations. The study reveals a 'cation effect' influencing electrode durability.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 18, 2025

Researchers are cracking the code on solid-state batteries

University of Missouri researchers developed a solution to improve solid-state battery performance by understanding the root cause of issues. They used 4D STEM to examine atomic structures without disassembling batteries, ultimately determining the interphase layer was the culprit.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateFeb 27, 2025
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.

Scientists reveal new design for cells turning carbon dioxide into a green fuel

Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University developed a new electrochemical cell that converts bicarbonate solution into formate ions with high selectivity and efficiency. The cell boasts unrivalled performances rivaling energy-hungry gas-fed methods, promising to have a significant impact on climate change technology.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalEES Catalysis·DateSep 14, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Longer-lasting and more sustainable green hydrogen production

Researchers at RIKEN have improved the stability of a green hydrogen production process by using a custom-made catalyst, increasing its lifetime by almost 4,000 times. The breakthrough uses earth-abundant materials, making it more sustainable and potentially cost-effective for widespread industrial use.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Catalysis·DateApr 26, 2024

USTC develops rechargeable, non-aqueous manganese metal battery

The USTC team created a rechargeable, non-aqueous manganese metal battery with halogen-mediated electrolyte, achieving high Coulombic and Faraday efficiencies. The battery demonstrated stable cycling for over 700 hours and showed excellent multiplicity performance.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalJoule·DateMar 15, 2024
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.

Chemists decipher reaction process that could improve lithium-sulfur batteries

Researchers have deciphered the key pathways of the sulfur reduction reaction in lithium-sulfur batteries, identifying dominant molecular pathways and critical roles of electrocatalysis. This breakthrough could lead to improved battery performance, reduced costs, and increased energy storage capacity.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature·DateFeb 6, 2024

Engineered battery chemistry for fast charging capabilities

Researchers successfully improved lithium metal battery charging rates by adding a cesium nitrate compound, while maintaining long cycle life. The new findings challenge conventional beliefs about effective interphase components and contribute to the development of high-energy density batteries.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 26, 2024

Template for success: Shaping hard carbon electrodes for next-generation batteries

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science developed nanostructured hard carbon electrodes using inorganic zinc-based compounds, which deliver unprecedented performance and significantly increase the capacity of sodium- and potassium-ion batteries. The new electrodes improve energy density by 1.6 times compared to existing technologies.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 13, 2023

Pixel-by-pixel analysis yields insights into lithium-ion batteries

Researchers at MIT and partners have discovered that variations in lithium ion flow rates are correlated with differences in carbon coating thickness, which could lead to improved battery efficiency. This technique allows for the extraction of insights from nanoscale data, offering potential applications beyond battery technology.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateSep 13, 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.

A new way to capture and recycle carbon dioxide from industrial emissions

Researchers have developed an electrochemical cell that can easily capture and release CO2, a major contributor to industrial emissions. The device operates at room temperature and requires less energy than traditional methods, making it a promising alternative for industries that struggle with electrification.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateAug 30, 2023

Graphene discovery could help generate hydrogen cheaply and sustainably

Researchers from The University of Warwick and The University of Manchester have solved the long-standing puzzle of why graphene is permeable to protons. Protons are strongly accelerated around nanoscale wrinkles in perfect graphene crystals, which could lead to more sustainable hydrogen production.

SourceUniversity of Warwick·JournalNature·DateAug 23, 2023

Chloride ions from seawater eyed as possible lithium replacement in batteries of the future

Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute discovered a new redox chemistry empowered by chloride ions for the development of seawater green batteries. This technology leverages abundant elements such as iron oxides and hydroxides, potentially repurposing iron rust waste materials for modern energy storage.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalChemistry of Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 10, 2023
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.

AI designs sustainable electricity storage at Graz University of Technology

Researchers at Graz University of Technology are developing a sustainable electricity storage system using AI optimisation and vanillin as the storage medium. The project aims to create an environmentally friendly system with high efficiency and safety for industry and renewable energy applications.

SourceGraz University of Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2023