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New study shows how organic molecules impact gold nanoparticles

A new study by Prof. Daniel Mandler and his team found that organic molecules can significantly influence the electrical properties of gold nanoparticles, up to 71 mV. The research highlights the importance of capping agents in controlling nanoparticle behavior and provides insights for customizing their interactions.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2024

Producing hydrogen and fertilizer at the same time

A research team at Ruhr University Bochum has developed a catalyst that can convert ammonia into hydrogen and nitrite, producing both a clean energy carrier and a fertilizer precursor simultaneously. The process doubles the hydrogen yield while minimizing nitrogen production.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 15, 2024
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.

Ionic liquids: “Don’t shake it”

Researchers developed a technique to separate well-mixed mixtures, creating an economically viable process for synthesizing and purifying ionic liquids like [bmim][BF4]. High-purity [bmim][BF4] was produced with a purity exceeding 99%, and the recovered layer containing methylimidazole could be recycled.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateJul 5, 2024

“The magic of making electricity from metals and air” The vexing carbonate has achieved it!

Researchers from Pohang University of Science & Technology have developed a high-energy, high-efficiency all-solid-state sodium-air battery that can reversibly utilize sodium and air without additional equipment. The breakthrough overcomes the challenge of carbonate formation, increasing energy density and reducing voltage gap.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 28, 2024

Polymeric films protect anodes from sulfide solid electrolytes!

Researchers developed polymeric protective films to improve anode interface stability in sulfide-based all-solid-state batteries. The films, made from various polymers, showed improved interfacial stability and high-capacity retention rates after multiple cycles.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMay 28, 2024
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.

New milestone for lithium metal batteries

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology developed a hybrid porous structure using polyvinyl alcohol, enabling uniform lithium electrodeposition. The new design facilitated the transport of lithium ions, reducing 'dead Li' areas and internal short circuits, resulting in high stability after 200 charge-discharge cycles.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateMay 23, 2024

The Clues for Cleaner Water

Researchers at Pitt and Drexel have discovered that electrocatalysts can promote chemical reactions that generate ozone in water through corrosion and solution phase reactions. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more efficient and sustainable electrochemical ozone production technologies.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalACS Catalysis·TypeObservational study·DateMay 6, 2024

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
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.

Rapid, simultaneous detection of multiple bacteria achieved with handheld sensor

A handheld device developed by Osaka Metropolitan University's team can detect multiple bacterial species within an hour, including disease-causing E. coli and salmonella. The sensor uses organic metallic nanohybrids to distinguish electrochemical signals on the same screen-printed electrode chip.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 2024

Operando spectroscopy provides a window on water oxidation

Researchers used operando spectroscopy to study the oxygen evolution reaction in iridium oxide catalysts. The team found that binding of reaction intermediates to the electrode was controlled by long-range interactions between the intermediates and the solution, which depended on pH.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJACS·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 4, 2024

Researchers realize electrochemical conversion of CH4 and O2 to HCOOH at room temperature

Scientists have successfully converted methane (CH4) into formic acid (HCOOH) using oxygen (O2) at room temperature through an electrochemical process. The high-pressure electro-Fenton strategy achieved a Faradaic efficiency of 81.4% with an ultra-low cathodic overpotential of 0.38 V.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 26, 2024
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Novel electrochemical sensor detects dangerous bacteria

Researchers have developed an innovative detection method using artificial glycocalyx to capture and identify specific bacteria. The sensor can detect intact bacteria, even in small quantities, and distinguish them from harmless bacteria.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2024

Electrochemistry helps clean up electronic waste recycling, precious metal mining

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a novel electrochemical process to extract precious metals, including gold and platinum group metals, from discarded electronics and low-grade ores. This method uses less energy and fewer chemical materials than current methods, producing high-purity metals with minimal waste.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Chemical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2024

Scientists develop catalyst designed to make ammonia production more sustainable

Researchers at a FAPESP-supported research center have developed an electrochemical nitrogen reduction process using iron oxide and molybdenum disulfide catalysts. This method eliminates the need for high temperatures and pressures, reducing power consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalElectrochimica Acta·DateMar 21, 2024

Electrolyte cation types control electrochemical reactions on an electrode surface

Researchers discovered that electron and proton transfer mechanisms during oxygen reduction reactions vary depending on electrolyte cations, enabling improved energy conversion efficiencies. This breakthrough suggests optimizing reaction pathways without using costly electrodes.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 5, 2024
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.

A new method for successfully measuring electrical conductivity in microorganisms―approaching understanding of microbial ecosystems

A new bioelectronic system has been developed to measure electrical conductivity in microorganisms without requiring biofilm formation on electrodes. This approach has revealed that Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus subtilis possess conductive properties, with potential applications in environmental energy technologies.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 29, 2024

Giant step forward to help treat chronic wounds that affect millions

A team of scientists has developed a new treatment for chronic wounds that uses ionized gas plasma to decontaminate and heal wounds. The technology shows promise in treating diabetic foot ulcers, internal wounds, and potentially cancerous tumours.

SourceUniversity of South Australia·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2024

Advancing precision diagnostics at the patient point-of-care

A new nanocomposite porous antifouling coating has been developed, enabling higher numbers of biomarker-detecting probes and up to 17-fold higher sensitivities than previous best-in-class sensors. This breakthrough broadens the diagnostic horizon for multiplexed electrochemical sensors across multiple diseases.

SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Resting boosts performance of lithium metal batteries

Researchers at Stanford University have discovered that resting lithium metal batteries in the discharged state can restore capacity and boost overall performance. By reprogramming the battery management software, lost capacity can be recovered without additional cost or changes needed for equipment, materials, or production flow.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateFeb 7, 2024

EVs that go 1,000km on a single charge: Gel makes it possible

Researchers from Pohang University of Science & Technology developed a new gel-based battery system using micro silicon particles and gel polymer electrolytes, enabling stable performance even with larger silicon particles. The system exhibits improved energy density and is ready for immediate application.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateFeb 7, 2024

Incheon National University-Harvard University joint research team improves fuel cell durability with fatigue-resistant membranes

Researchers created a polymer electrolyte membrane with an interpenetrating network that enhances fatigue resistance and prolongs the lifespan of fuel cells. The composite membrane exhibits a lifespan of 410 hours, compared to 242 hours for the original Nafion membrane.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2024

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
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Biodegradable sensor monitors levels of pesticides via direct contact with surface of fruit and vegetables

The biodegradable sensor, made from plant-based material, can detect pesticide levels in minutes and has the potential to help assure food safety. The study showed that washing and immersion were insufficient to remove residues of pesticides, highlighting the need for reliable detection methods.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalBiomaterials Advances·DateFeb 2, 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

Machine learning method speeds up discovery of green energy materials

Scientists at Kyushu University use machine learning to identify promising green energy materials, accelerating the search for hydrogen fuel cell efficiency and expanding material discovery capabilities. Two new candidate materials with unique crystal structures have been successfully synthesized.

SourceKyushu University·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 17, 2024

Core-shell ‘chemical looping’ boosts efficiency of greener approach to ethylene production

Researchers have developed a new catalyst that exceeds 30% yield for the production of ethylene through oxidative coupling of methane, a more sustainable and economically viable method. The core-shell Li2CO3-coated mixed rare earth oxides catalyst enables sequential oxygen switching, replenishing its ability to provide oxygen for the r...

SourceLehigh University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 12, 2024
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.

Understanding the relationship between the performance of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells and hydrogen partial pressure

Researchers have made significant strides in understanding the relationship between hydrogen partial pressure and PEMFC performance, revealing a pronounced decline in performance as hydrogen partial pressure decreased. The study aims to simplify fuel cell quality testing, cost reduction, and reduced safety requirements.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2023

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
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.

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

Making electric vehicles last

A new polymer binder is introduced to address durability issues in dual-ion batteries. The binder features azide and acrylate groups, which enhance the structural integrity of graphite during charge and discharge cycles. Dual-ion batteries equipped with this binder demonstrate exceptional performance, even after 3,500 recharge cycles.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 1, 2023
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Engineers develop an efficient process to make fuel from carbon dioxide

Researchers at MIT and Harvard University have developed an efficient process to convert carbon dioxide into a stable, solid formate fuel that can be used in fuel cells and generate electricity. The new process achieves over 90% conversion efficiency and eliminates the need for toxic and flammable fuels.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateOct 30, 2023

Quantum materials: superconductor performs best under pressure

Researchers at Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) discovered that applying mechanical pressure to strontium ruthenate increases its transition temperature and facilitates deformation. This is attributed to quantum mechanics resonance of electron oscillations, making the material softer.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2023

Teams investigate material degradation process of carbon-based catalyst

A team of researchers elucidated how hydrogen peroxide affects the degradation of a carbon-based catalyst named N-G/MOF. The study examined changes in the catalyst's elemental composition, major chemical bonds, crystal structure, and morphology under varying concentrations of hydrogen peroxide.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 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
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.

Hybrid catalyst produces critical fertilizer and cleans wastewater

A hybrid catalyst made of zinc and copper produces critical fertilizer and cleans wastewater, reducing carbon footprint and supplying a potential revenue stream. The process involves converting carbon dioxide and waste nitrogen using the hybrid catalyst, achieving an optimal performance ratio.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Catalysis·DateSep 11, 2023

Roadmap drafted for research into metallic ‘sponges’ for clean hydrogen

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) are being explored as a game-changer for efficient photocatalytic water splitting, which is crucial for clean hydrogen production. With their unique structural properties and high surface area, MOFs can enhance the efficiency of this process by absorbing sunlight and providing more active sites for chemi...

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalPolyoxometalates·DateSep 1, 2023

Researchers at Mainz University and Evonik have developed an innovative method to cleave and oxidize double- and triple-bonds in hydrocarbons

Mainz University and Evonik researchers have created an environmentally friendly process to generate dicarboxylic acids, a crucial chemical building block for polyamides. The new technique uses only oxygen, electricity, and hydrocarbon compounds, eliminating heavy metals and strong acids, and resulting in no nitrogen oxide emissions.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 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.

Nanoneedles formed on an electrocatalyst improve hydrogen production

Researchers created nanoneedle structures on a nickel-cobalt phosphide catalyst, improving its performance and efficiency in producing hydrogen. The unique microstructure enhances electron transfer and releases hydrogen bubbles, making it suitable for large-scale hydrogen production.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateJul 31, 2023

An innovative addition to the chemist’s ‘toolbox’

Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a new type of nanoclay material that can be customized to perform specific tasks. This breakthrough could lead to advances in fields such as medical science, environmental science, and more.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalACS Applied Engineering Materials·DateJul 24, 2023
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.

Highly active catalyst for alkaline water electrolysis using typical elements

The study introduces a highly active catalyst for alkaline water electrolysis using typical elements, including rhombohedral boron monosulfide complexed with graphene nanoplatelets. This novel material exhibits high catalytic activity for oxygen evolution reactions, paving the way for sustainable hydrogen production.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateJul 20, 2023

The future of recycling could one day mean dissolving plastic with electricity

Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have developed a new way to recycle polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic using electricity and chemical reactions. In small-scale lab experiments, PET was broken down into its basic building blocks, which can be recovered and potentially reused to make new plastic bottles.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalChem Catalysis·DateJul 5, 2023

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

Leipzig research team develops process for bio-based nylon

The Leipzig research team has developed a process to convert phenol into adipic acid using electrochemical synthesis and microbial conversion, achieving high yields of electrons and cyclohexanol. The technology has the potential to replace fossil-based nylon production, reducing emissions and energy consumption.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalGreen Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 4, 2023

Electrochemical device captures carbon dioxide at the flick of a switch

A new electrochemical device developed by Rice University engineers can capture carbon dioxide directly from sources like flue gas to the atmosphere using electricity. The system has efficiency above 98% and requires minimal electricity input, making it a promising front for climate change mitigation.

SourceRice University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 28, 2023
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.

Towards efficient lithium–air batteries with solution plasma-based synthesis of perovskite hydroxide catalysts

Researchers at Shibaura Institute of Technology have developed a faster way to synthesize CoSn(OH)6, a powerful catalyst required for high-energy lithium–air batteries. The new method uses solution plasma-based synthesis and achieves highly crystalline CSO crystals with improved catalytic properties.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalSustainable Energy & Fuels·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2023

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers improve the solubility of redox molecules for enhanced energy storage systems

Researchers from GIST have developed a hydrotropic-supporting electrolyte to enhance the solubility of organic redox molecules in aqueous systems. This improvement enables the creation of high-energy-density electrochemical capacitors with potential applications in redox flow batteries.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 1, 2023

New concept for lithium-air batteries

Researchers are working on a new concept for lithium-air batteries that could lead to significant improvements in energy storage capacity. A collaborative project in Germany aims to test new materials and components to enhance the stability of these battery cells. The goal is to overcome technical challenges such as unstable electrolyt...

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·DateMay 5, 2023

Is the ocean a solution for ushering in the era of environmentally friendly energy?

Researchers at POSTECH developed seawater batteries with improved performance by incorporating chelating agents, overcoming limitations of traditional lithium-ion batteries. The new design achieved high energy efficiency and capacity, making it a promising candidate for next-generation energy storage systems.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateApr 27, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

A panoramic view on lithium-mediated electrochemical dinitrogen reduction reaction

The review summarizes the recent progress of Li-eN2 RR, covering reaction mechanisms, catalysts developed, and electrolytes involved. It highlights the challenges and possible resolving strategies in the field. The study also discusses the importance of rational design of electrocatalysts and electrolytes for efficient NH3 production.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 24, 2023