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Shedding light on mechanisms of electrochemical energy storage

Researchers at Drexel University have developed a new method that combines UV-visible spectroscopy with cyclic voltammetry to track ion movement in batteries and supercapacitors. This breakthrough could lead to the design of higher performing energy storage devices.

SourceDrexel University·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2023

Team finds major storage capacity in water-based batteries

Texas A&M researchers have found a significant increase in energy storage capacity of water-based battery electrodes, paving the way for safer and more stable batteries. The discovery could provide an alternative to lithium-ion batteries, which are facing material shortages and price increases.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 3, 2023
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.

Chung-Ang University researchers fabricate novel flexible supercapacitors on paper

Chung-Ang University researchers develop a novel flexible supercapacitor platform with vertically integrated gold electrodes in a single sheet of paper. The design shows low electrical resistance, high foldability, and good mechanical strength, making it suitable for wearable devices.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 6, 2023

New UCF-developed battery could prevent post-hurricane electric vehicle fires

The UCF-developed battery uses saltwater as an electrolyte, eliminating volatile solvents and overcoming limitations of previous aqueous batteries. The novel design allows for fast charging in just three minutes and increased stability, making it a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2023
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.

Metal-free batteries raise hope for more sustainable and economical grids

Researchers at KAUST developed a high-efficiency metal-free battery using ammonium cations as charge carriers, outperforming existing analogues with a record operation voltage of 2.75 volts. This breakthrough provides potential for lowering battery costs and enabling large-scale applications.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 10, 2023

Best of both worlds: New elastic and durable crosslinked anion exchange membranes

Developed by Incheon National University researchers, the new membranes exhibit high mechanical strength, phase separation, and ionic conductivity. The 40% crosslinked membrane showed the highest relative humidity, normalized conductivity, and peak power density, surpassing commercial membranes.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalJournal of Membrane Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 4, 2023

Electrolytes as diagnostic tool for early detection of eating disorders

Researchers at the University of Ottawa have discovered that patients with electrolyte abnormalities are twice as likely to be diagnosed with an eating disorder. This study analyzed Ontario health data between 2008 and 2020, identifying a potential preventative treatment for approximately 1 million Canadians.

SourceUniversity of Ottawa·JournalJAMA Network Open·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 16, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New materials could enable longer-lasting implantable batteries

Researchers at MIT have developed a new approach to improve the energy density of nonrechargeable batteries, enabling up to a 50% increase in useful lifetime. The new design uses a fluorinated catholyte material that reduces dead weight and improves safety.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 7, 2022

Water for drinking? Nope, water for batteries

Researchers at POSTECH developed a stable aqueous zinc-ion battery that uses water as an electrolyte, reducing the risk of fires and explosions. The new battery features a protective polymer layer to prevent electrode corrosion and increase stability.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateNov 1, 2022

Recent progress in synthesis and surface modification of nickel-rich layered oxide cathode materials for lithium-ion batteries

Researchers from South China University of Technology have developed novel surface modification techniques for nickel-rich layered oxide cathode materials, improving their electrochemical performance. The techniques allow for high-performance nickel-rich cathode materials to be synthesized, enabling in-depth mechanisms to be captured a...

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateOct 31, 2022

Batteries without critical raw materials

Scientists have created a new type of battery that stores sodium ions in combination with their solvate shell, enabling reversible co-intercalation. This innovation could improve efficiency and performance at low temperatures, making it suitable for alternative cell concepts.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2022
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.

Researchers design next-generation electrolytes for lithium metal batteries

A team of researchers at the University of Tokyo has discovered a new mechanism to stabilize lithium metal electrodes and electrolytes, leading to enhanced energy density. By introducing a compound called ferrocene into specific electrolyte systems, they achieved high Coulombic efficiency, a critical factor in battery cycle life.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Energy·DateOct 27, 2022

Unraveling the effect of cation types on electrochromic properties of titanium dioxide nanocrystals

Researchers have discovered that zinc ions enhance the electrochromic properties of titanium dioxide nanocrystals, resulting in fast switching, high contrast, and high stability. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of cost-effective and rapid electrochromic devices.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 1, 2022
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Improving foam stability in disinfectants with high ethanol concentrations

A new study proposes a method of foam stabilization that could be used to make highly efficient hand sanitizers. The team added an anionic surfactant, long-chain alcohols, and an inorganic electrolyte to an aqueous solution containing 60% ethanol by volume.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalChemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2022

Novel multi-proton carrier complex as efficient proton conductor at high temperatures

A team of researchers from Tokyo University of Science has developed a novel multi-proton carrier complex that shows efficient proton conductivity even at high temperatures. The resulting starburst-type metal complex acts as a proton transmitter, making it 6 times more potent than individual imidazole molecules.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 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.

Longer lasting sodium-ion batteries on the horizon

Researchers at PNNL have developed a sodium-ion battery with greatly extended longevity in laboratory tests. The new electrolyte recipe stabilizes the protective film on the anode and generates an ultra-thin protective layer, providing long cycle life and stability. This technology has potential for applications in light-duty electric ...

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 13, 2022

One step closer to fire-safe, recyclable lithium-metal batteries

Engineers at University of Chicago have developed fire-safe, recyclable liquefied gas electrolytes for temperature-resilient lithium-metal batteries. The new technology broadens the choice of electrolyte solvent molecules, enabling excellent low-temperature performance and high-voltage cathodes.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature Energy·DateJun 29, 2022

Research extends the lifetime of molecules in organic flow batteries to practical values

Harvard researchers develop new method to extend the lifetime of organic molecules in organic aqueous flow batteries, improving their commercial viability. The approach works by periodically providing a shock to revive decomposed molecules, resulting in a net lifetime increase of up to 260 times.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJun 16, 2022
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.

Electrochemical synthesis now possible without electric power source

A team of researchers has developed a proof-of-concept for electrochemical polymerization without an external power supply, opening up new avenues for environmentally-friendly synthesis reactions. The innovation uses streaming potential-driven electrochemistry to achieve organic synthesis.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2022

Charging a green future: Latest advancement in lithium-ion batteries could make them ubiquitous

Researchers have developed a polymer composite binder that improves the performance of silicon anodes in lithium-ion batteries. The binder, consisting of P-BIAN and PAA polymers, stabilizes the silicon particles and maintains a thin solid-electrolyte interface layer, resulting in improved discharge capacity and structural integrity.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateMay 19, 2022

Smart pacifier developed to monitor infant health in the hospital

A wireless pacifier developed by researchers at Washington State University can monitor infants' electrolyte levels without the need for invasive blood draws. This non-invasive method provides real-time monitoring of sodium and potassium ion concentrations in saliva.

SourceWashington State University·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateMay 16, 2022

Data-driven robotic experiments accelerate discovery of multi-component electrolyte

Researchers developed a data-driven robotic experiment system to identify electrolyte materials with desirable properties. They discovered a multi-component electrolyte that enhances the cycle life of lithium–air batteries, accelerating the development of next-generation rechargeable batteries.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2022

Researchers at the GIST uncover the key to safer energy storage devices

The study reveals significant information on the thermal properties of electric double-layer capacitors, which can help create safer and more reliable energy storage devices. The research team found that charging and discharging alter the heat capacity of EDLCs, leading to a decrease in capacitance.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022
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.

Dual membrane offers hope for long-term energy storage

A new approach to battery design uses a polysulfide-air redox flow battery with two membranes, overcoming main problems and opening up potential for large-scale energy storage. The dual membrane design enables the use of lower-cost materials, improving performance and reducing costs.

SourceImperial College London·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 3, 2022

Story tips: Supply chain crunch, safer batteries on impact and lithium light bright

A new report from Oak Ridge National Laboratory identifies supply chain must-haves for maintaining the pivotal role of hydropower in decarbonizing the nation's grid. The report also highlights advances in safer battery technologies and innovative electron microscopy techniques for imaging lithium in energy storage materials.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2022

Using quantum methods to predict next-gen lithium-metal battery reactivity

Dr. Perla Balbuena's study uses quantum chemical methods to track specific reactions on Li-metal battery surfaces, revealing insights into polymer formation and surface chemistry. The research aims to optimize Li-metal batteries' performance and lifespan by controlling reactivity.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeNews article·DateMar 22, 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.

Chemists suggest using polymeric ionic liquids in supercapacitors

A team of researchers created a theoretical model demonstrating the difference in electrical differential capacitance between polymeric and ordinary ionic liquids. They predict a huge increase in capacitance for polymeric ionic liquids compared to regular ionic liquids with the same chemical composition.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateMar 11, 2022

More research needed to correct the paradox of sustainable batteries

Magnesium-based batteries offer a promising alternative to lithium-ion batteries, with several significant advantages. However, developing cost-effective and high-performance batteries requires further research on electrolyte development, anode design, and cathode structure.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2022

Breakthrough in cathode chemistry clears the path for Li-S batteries' commercial viability

Researchers at Drexel University have developed a stable sulfur cathode that functions in a commercially viable carbonate electrolyte, enabling Li-S batteries with three times the capacity of Li-ion batteries and lasting over 4,000 recharges. This breakthrough paves the way for more sustainable battery alternatives.

SourceDrexel University·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2022
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.

Selective membrane may cycle dual-ion batteries closer to reality

Researchers have developed a new selective membrane technology that significantly improves the cycling stability of dual-ion batteries. The innovative approach decouples negatively charged anions from solvents, preventing co-intercalation and electrolyte corrosion, leading to enhanced oxidation resistance.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 19, 2022

Recently developed novel Li-conducting polymeric materials enabling superior lithium (Li) metal anodes

Researchers developed a novel lithium-containing crosslinked polymeric material, LiGL, which exhibits exceptional protection effects on lithium metal anodes. The material achieves superior cycling stability, even after over 20,000 Li-stripping/plating cycles without failures.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 6, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Researchers propose method to increase charge of supercapacitors

A new theoretical model of supercapacitors takes into account cation properties to increase electric differential capacitance. The authors believe this will lead to the creation of more powerful energy sources in the future.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateDec 1, 2021

New research reveals the mechanism of ion transport in aqueous Li-ion batteries

Recent study uses advanced spectroscopy techniques to observe water molecules in superconcentrated salt solutions and identifies heterogeneity in solvation structure. This finding explains the unexpected fast lithium-ion transport in highly viscous electrolytes.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateNov 29, 2021

Prize-winning technology for large-scale energy storage

Researchers at Linköping University have developed a concept for large-scale energy storage that is safe, cheap and sustainable. The technology uses wood-based electrodes and a new type of water-based electrolyte, achieving a world record for energy storage with organic electrodes in water-based electrolytes.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Energy and Sustainability Research·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2021

Powering up next-generation energy storage

An international research team led by Jennifer L. Schaefer has analyzed the potential of magnesium-ion-conducting solid polymer electrolytes in two separate battery systems. The study found that these electrolytes exhibit higher thermal, mechanical, and electrochemical stability compared to traditional liquid electrolytes, making them ...

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021
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.

Silicon anodes muscle in on battery technology

Researchers have observed for the first time how silicon anodes degrade in lithium-ion batteries due to swelling and electrolyte infiltration. This degradation leads to reduced battery capacity and charging speed, but scientists are exploring ways to protect silicon from these effects.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 5, 2021

A more efficient way to find a more efficient battery

A universal descriptor has been found to indicate the best electrolytes for organic redox flow batteries, reducing experimentation time. This breakthrough could speed up the development of new storage technologies, enabling grid-scale energy storage with a stable grid.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2021

Flexible origami-based tubular polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell

Researchers developed a lightweight and flexible passive air-breathing PEMFC with simplified components. The new design allows for easy assembly and folding, reducing the number of parts and increasing power output when connected in series.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021
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.

Stabilizing gassy electrolytes could make ultra-low temperature batteries safer

A new separator developed by nanoengineers at the University of California San Diego traps gas molecules to stabilize volatile electrolytes, preventing swelling and explosions. The separator boosts battery performance at ultra-low temperatures, with cells operating at 500 milliamp-hours per gram at -40 C.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 7, 2021

Researchers make new charge storage mechanism discovery

Researchers at the University of Liverpool have made a groundbreaking discovery in charge storage mechanisms for calcium-air batteries. The new finding, known as trapped interfacial redox, introduces a novel mechanism that can be harnessed to create highly sustainable battery technologies.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalChemical Science·DateJun 7, 2021

A long-lasting, stable solid-state lithium battery

Harvard researchers develop a stable solid-state lithium battery that can be charged and discharged at least 10,000 times, increasing the lifetime of electric vehicles to 10-15 years. The battery's multilayer design prevents dendrite growth, allowing for high current density and quick charging.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature·DateMay 12, 2021
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.

NUS scientists create a new type of intelligent material

Researchers at NUS have created a new class of intelligent materials that can adapt their properties depending on changes in their surroundings. These smart materials show promise for targeted drug delivery and could also be used in artificial muscles and energy storage applications.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 12, 2021

Significant progress in lithium-air battery development

Research from the University of Liverpool and Loughborough University has developed electrolyte formulations for lithium-oxygen batteries, significantly improving cycle stability. The technology could provide greater energy storage than conventional lithium-ion batteries.

SourceUniversity of Liverpool·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMay 6, 2021

Mapping performance variations to see how lithium-metal batteries fail

Scientists identified depletion of liquid electrolyte as primary cause of failure in high-energy-density lithium-metal batteries. The study used high-energy x-rays to map performance variations and calculate cathode material state, enabling the discovery of dominant failure mechanism.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateApr 19, 2021

A new material enables the usage of 'calcium' for batteries

Scientists from Tohoku University have developed a new fluorine-free calcium electrolyte that shows improved electrochemical performances. This breakthrough could lead to cost-effective and high-performance rechargeable calcium batteries as an alternative to lithium-ion batteries.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 6, 2021
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.