Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Molybdenum caught holding the hydrogen

Researchers at KAUST have found that molybdenum plays a central role in electrochemical hydride transfer, a process for producing valuable chemicals or carbon-free fuels. The discovery could enable more sustainable production of sustainable fuels and chemicals.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Catalysis·DateAug 2, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Complex pathways influence time delay in ionization of molecules

A team led by Prof. Dr. Giuseppe Sansone used attosecond pulses to investigate the motion of electrons after photon absorption, finding they experience a complex landscape with potential peaks and valleys. This approach can be extended to more complex molecular systems, providing unprecedented temporal resolution.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 16, 2022

Migrating holes help catalysts be productive

Researchers at Rice University have developed a theory showing how manipulating quasiparticles could help improve chemical reactions. By applying electric fields, holes can be made to migrate across the surface of catalyst particles, activating neighboring sites and increasing the efficiency of the reaction.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 10, 2022

New device advances commercial viability of solar fuels

A new device has been developed that converts sunlight into two promising sources of renewable fuels – ethylene and hydrogen. The researchers found that by optimizing the working conditions for cuprous oxide, a promising artificial photosynthesis material, they can create a more stable system.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 16, 2021
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.

Picture perfect X-ray capture

Researchers at KAUST have developed a nanocomposite that absorbs X-rays with near-perfect efficiency and re-emits the energy as light. This innovation improves high-resolution medical imaging and security screening, with detection limits up to 142 times lower than traditional methods.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalMatter·DateDec 15, 2021

Scientists capture electron transfer image in electrocatalysis process

Researchers developed an in-situ imaging method to visualize electron transfer on metal nanoplates, revealing site-dependent heterogeneity. The study decoupled mass transfer effects and extracted rate constants, providing insights into electrocatalytic reactions.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNano Letters·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateNov 29, 2021

Chemists provide a new look at the problem of energy efficiency in lithium-ion batteries

A new study refutes a long-standing explanation for low energy efficiency in lithium-ion batteries, suggesting that voltage hysteresis is caused by reversible electron transfer between oxygen and transition metal atoms. This phenomenon could be mitigated through manipulation of electron transfer barriers.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNature Chemistry·DateSep 16, 2021

Helping semiconductors find a cooler way to relax

A study from KAUST found that interface and bandgap engineering can significantly slow down the relaxation of 'hot' electrons in semiconductors, increasing their lifetimes. This innovation has potential applications in solar cells, which could improve efficiency by reducing heat loss.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021
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.

Wired for efficiency: How methanogenic microbes manage electrons

Researchers discovered a massive enzyme complex in methanogenic archaea that directly transfers electrons from electron bifurcation to CO2 reduction, increasing efficiency. This finding may lead to sustainable biotechnological development and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 3, 2021

Improved water splitting method: A green energy innovation by Pusan National University

Researchers at Pusan National University have developed a novel electrocatalyst that can effectively produce hydrogen and oxygen from water at low cost. The catalyst, composed of transition metal phosphates, achieves high surface area and fast charge transfer, making it suitable for commercial on-site production of hydrogen.

SourcePusan National University·JournalApplied Catalysis B Environment and Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2021

Birnessite study offers insights for electrochemistry, energy storage

Researchers at NC State re-examined birnessite's behavior, finding that nanoconfined interlayer structural water mitigates ion interactions, enabling an intermediate adsorption mechanism. This leads to capacitive behavior without significant structural change.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 2, 2021
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.

The electron merry-go-round

Researchers at the University of Freiburg have detected a previously unknown quantum effect in metal clusters, where electrons exhibit behavior similar to classical particles. The team's findings contradict previous predictions and suggest that decoherence suppresses interferences, leading to almost classical distributions.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 15, 2021

The chemistry of magnesium turned on its head

Researchers at FAU have discovered a new class of magnesium complexes in which the metal has a zero-oxidation state, forming elemental Mg in complex compounds. This discovery represents a landmark in the chemistry of magnesium and opens up new avenues for research into its unusual reactivity.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature·DateMay 14, 2021

Towards 2D memory technology by magnetic graphene

Researchers have experimentally confirmed that magnetic graphene can generate large spin signals and transfer spin information over long distances. This discovery paves the way for the development of ultra-compact 2D spin-logic devices with strong spin-polarization, promising high-speed and energy-saving electronics.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 6, 2021

New method boosts syngas generation from biopolyols

Researchers developed a new method to generate syngas from biopolyols using photocatalytic biomass conversion at room temperature, exhibiting high efficiency and selectivity. The catalyst featuring surface sulfate ions increased electron-proton transfer, promoting syngas production with 9-fold higher CO generation rate.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 6, 2021

Picosecond electron transfer in peptides can help energy technologies

Scientists have observed unusually fast picosecond electron transfer in peptides mediated by hydrogen bonds, a rate 1 million times faster than previously known. This discovery has the potential to improve chemical transformations, energy conversion, electronic devices, and photonic technologies.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 14, 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.

Mysterious organic scum boosts chemical reaction efficiency, may reduce chemical waste

Researchers found that a previously overlooked phenomenon in chemical reactions can boost efficiency and reduce waste. The discovery, led by University of Illinois researcher David Flaherty, involves the formation of an organic residue that acts as a surface redox mediator, increasing reaction rates and hydrogen peroxide production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScience·DateFeb 4, 2021
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.

Chemists succeed in synthesis of aminoalcohols by utilizing light

Scientists at University of Münster have successfully synthesized the least accessible form of vicinal aminoalcohols using a photo-initiated reaction method. This breakthrough enables the efficient production of high-quality organic compounds found in everyday products, with potential applications in pharmaceuticals and natural products.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Catalysis·DateJan 4, 2021

Princeton Chem reports role of quantum vibrations in electron transfer

Researchers from Princeton University's Scholes Group discovered quantum vibrations play a crucial role in ultrafast electron transfer reactions. The study uses ultrafast laser spectroscopy to show that vibrations provide channels for the reaction to occur, and an extra vibrational wavepacket appears in the product state.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateDec 10, 2020

Out with the old, in with the new

Researchers at UVA School of Engineering have challenged the traditional heat transfer paradigm in semiconductor design. They discovered a new mechanism called ballistic thermal injection that allows for independent optimization of optical, electrical, and thermal behavior without impacting device performance.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 9, 2020

A molecule like a nanobattery

Researchers at University of Oldenburg develop complex molecular compound with high electron capacity, revealing new understanding of charge storage in metal centres. The model molecule functions as a 'mini segment of an energy storage material', paving the way for future design elements in molecular catalysts.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalChemPhysChem·DateDec 8, 2020

Observing the ultrafast motion of atoms and electrons

Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding the ultrafast motion of atoms and electrons, with implications for controlling materials through light. By observing the distortion of molecular structures and electron transfer, researchers can now distinguish between atomic motion and electronic dynamics.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Chemistry·DateDec 7, 2020
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 device offers faster way to detect antibiotic-resistant bacteria

A new device can detect antibiotic-resistant bacteria in just five hours by measuring naturally occurring electron transfers. The device, developed by Binghamton University researchers, has the potential to serve as an important point-of-care diagnostic tool in areas with limited resources.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateDec 1, 2020

Light on efficiency loss in organic solar cells

Organic solar cell efficiencies are limited by electron affinity and ionization energy offsets. Researchers discovered that Förster resonance energy transfer competes with electron transfer, hindering charge separation. The team plans to design new materials with enhanced charge generation and reduced energy losses.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Materials·DateOct 26, 2020

Sludge-powered bacteria generate more electricity, faster

Scientists have discovered a novel electroactive bacterium, Desulfuromonas acetexigens, that preferentially grows on modified electrodes, producing higher current densities than existing species. This breakthrough could enable energy-neutral wastewater treatment using microbial electrolysis cells.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalWater Research·DateOct 19, 2020
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 discover new photoactivation mechanism for polymer production

Researchers at NC State University have developed a new method for producing polymer gel objects from pure monomer solutions using low-energy, visible light. This process has the potential to overcome current challenges in producing these materials and sheds light on the ways in which low energy photons can combine to produce high ener...

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalChem·DateSep 16, 2020

New kind of interaction discovered in hydrogen-producing enzymes

Hydrogenases can convert hydrogen efficiently like platinum catalysts. A team from Ruhr-Universität Bochum found that proton and electron transfers take place spatially separated but are coupled, crucial for efficiency. This discovery may lead to more efficient miniaturized hydrogenase catalysts.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2020
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.

Metal-breathing bacteria could transform electronics, biosensors, and more

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have discovered a bacterium that produces materials with potential applications in electronics, electrochemical energy storage and drug-delivery devices. The study found that Shewanella oneidensis can create novel materials like molybdenum disulfide, which can transfer electrons easily.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalBiointerphases·DateJul 28, 2020

Anammox bacteria generate energy from wastewater while taking a breath

Researchers discovered that anammox bacteria can transfer electrons to solid-state matter outside their cells, bypassing traditional electron acceptors. This breakthrough has significant implications for sustainable wastewater treatment, energy production, and the global nitrogen cycle.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 29, 2020
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.

New insights into the energy levels in quantum dots

Researchers from Basel and Bochum have experimentally confirmed the radiative Auger process in quantum dots, a crucial step for quantum communication. This discovery allows for precise determination of quantum mechanical energy levels, enabling better understanding of quantum systems.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 25, 2020

Using tiny electrodes to measure electrical activity in bacteria

Researchers at Linköping University have developed an organic electrochemical transistor to study extracellular electron transfer in bacteria. They successfully detect and amplify the signal, allowing for detailed analysis of charge release by bacteria.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJun 17, 2020

Defective graphene has high electrocatalytic activity

A theoretical study found that defects in graphene can increase charge transfer rates by an order of magnitude, selectively catalyzing electron transfer to certain reagents. This property has great potential for developing efficient electrochemical sensors and electrocatalysts.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalElectrochimica Acta·DateMay 11, 2020
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.

Light moves spins around

Scientists have discovered a new microscopic process called optical intersite spin transport (OISTR) that allows light to trigger a displacement of electrons between atoms, influencing the local magnetization. This process is accompanied by a leveling of electron reservoirs and can be tailored by bringing together specific types of atoms.

SourceForschungsverbund Berlin·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 17, 2020

Argonne and Washington University scientists unravel mystery of photosynthesis

Researchers at Argonne and Washington University have discovered an engineered version of a protein complex that enables the switch between two possible electron transfer pathways, opening up new opportunities for designing more efficient light-driven biochemical reactions. This breakthrough has significant implications for improving h...

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2020
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.

Taming electrons with bacteria parts

Researchers created an artificial electron transfer system by modifying a protein from bacteria, which can be used to produce medicines and biofuels. The system works by guiding electrons through short 'pit stops' made of heme molecules, allowing for more efficient energy transfer.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalFrontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology·DateJan 21, 2020

Walking with atoms -- chemical bond making and breaking recorded in action

A research team from UK and Germany has successfully recorded the dynamic behavior of a metal-metal bond in dirhenium molecules at the atomic scale. The breakthrough uses transmission electron microscopy to film the 'walking' of atoms along a nanotube, revealing changes in bond length and strength.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 17, 2020

Taking an X-ray of an atomic bond

Researchers have developed a new technique to study electron behavior in atomic bonds using resonant x-ray reflectivity. This method allows for the measurement of individual elements' contributions to their shared bond, providing insights into the degree of covalent and ionic bonding.

SourceDrexel University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 17, 2019
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.

A momentous view on the birth of photoelectrons

Researchers at ETH Zurich have made a breakthrough in understanding the interaction between light and matter, revealing how linear momentum is transferred to electrons during ionisation. The study found that the timing of electron 'birth' affects momentum transfer, with additional delays induced by interactions with residual ions.

SourceETH Zurich Department of Physics·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 5, 2019

How do you know it's perfect graphene?

Scientists at DOE/Ames National Laboratory have found a broad diffraction pattern in high-quality graphene samples, indicating defect-free and uniform layers of atoms. This discovery enables the reliable identification of structurally perfect graphene, a crucial step towards optimizing its properties for various applications.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review B·DateOct 30, 2019

Beyond Einstein: Mystery surrounding photon momentum solved

Researchers at Goethe University use new super COLTRIMS apparatus to measure minuscule effect on photon momentum. They find electrons receive unexpected additional momentum from magnetic fields, altering tunneling in strong-field ionization.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Physics·DateOct 1, 2019
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.

Researchers put a new spin on molecular oxygen

A multinational team successfully alters oxygen atoms' charge states and achieves reversible conversion to molecular oxygen using Kelvin probe force spectroscopy. The researchers found that controlled bonding between adjacent oxygen atoms can be induced remotely via surface polarons.

SourceOsaka University·JournalACS Nano·DateJul 17, 2019

Underwater power generation

Researchers have designed a new power generator that uses Prussian blue to extract electricity from seawater. The system can switch between two modes of operation, providing both long-term steady power and high power density for tasks such as underwater device operation.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMay 13, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Manipulating superconductivity using a 'mechanic' and an 'electrician'

Scientists created an EDLT device to control electron numbers and transfer energy, achieving superconducting states in both increasing and decreasing electron numbers. The system exhibited fundamentally different conditions for these states, with another superconducting state emerging when the substrate was bent.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 10, 2019

Heterogeneous catalyst goes enzymatic

Researchers have developed an enzyme-like heterogeneous TiO2 photocatalyst with high catalytic activity for hydrogen production. The catalyst's unique enzymatic characteristics enable it to efficiently convert light energy into H2, rivaling the performance of expensive Pt-TiO2 photocatalysts.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 22, 2019

Knowledge gap closed in our understanding of degradation of ethane

A team of UFZ researchers has discovered an archaeon that oxidises ethane, a major component of natural gas, on the seabed. The single-celled organism, Candidatus Argoarchaeum ethanivorans, was found to degrade ethane into carbon dioxide through a unique metabolic pathway.

SourceHelmholtz Centre for Environmental Research - UFZ·JournalNature·DateMar 28, 2019