Articles tagged with Hydrocarbons
A study has identified a vast network of subsurface streams and ponds in the northern Gulf of Mexico basin that are believed to contain significant amounts of untapped oil and gas. The discovery, made by Cornell University professor Lawrence M. Cathles, estimates that these reserves could be as large as those found in the North Sea.
A Rochester chemist has developed a new method to activate hydrocarbons directly with small, extremely reactive metals, cutting out an inefficient middle step in the process. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient production of plastics and other products.
A renowned chemist, Stang has made significant contributions to the field of petroleum refining, including the discovery of vinyl carbocations and self-assembly. His work has the potential to redefine the industry with its innovative compounds.
A University of Massachusetts Amherst study reveals that microorganisms in Boston Harbor sediments can break down PAHs using sulfate, potentially reducing the need for expensive remediation strategies. The findings suggest that natural activity can clean up contaminated harbors without active environmental protection.
The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) successfully conducted the first ground test of a full-scale, fully integrated hypersonic cruise missile engine using conventional liquid hydrocarbon fuel. The Dual Combustion Ramjet (DCR) engine concept demonstrated robust engine operation at speeds up to Mach 6.5.
Scientists have found organic compounds in deep space, a discovery that supports the hypothesis of complex organic compounds causing the Unidentified Infrared Bands. The study used a special laser to measure the spectrum of polyaromatic hydrocarbons in deep space.
A University of Toronto geochemist has found evidence of abiogenic gases in underground mines, matching hydrocarbons formed from non-life-based reactions. The discovery raises the possibility that life on Earth could be sustained by these gases, challenging previous assumptions about the origins of complex life.
Researchers at UC Berkeley have identified organic nitrogen oxides, previously unknown pollutants, which play a crucial role in atmospheric chemistry. The team's advanced detector can monitor NO compounds continuously with unprecedented sensitivity, enabling better predictions of ozone formation and air pollution impact.
Scientists took detailed measurements of a pollution plume containing Gobi desert dust and hydrocarbons on both sides of the Pacific, revealing elevated levels of pollutants. The study shows that Asian air pollution can affect air quality in North America, with significant implications for climate change.
Scientists at Massachusetts General Hospital discovered how smoking leads to premature ovarian failure by identifying a mechanism triggered by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in tobacco smoke. The findings support the hypothesis that PAH-induced egg cell death contributes to early menopause in women smokers.
A new polymer additive, polyisobutylene, may dramatically increase mileage and engine power with less pollution. It can produce a 10 percent increase in horsepower and a 20 percent increase in mileage.
Researchers discover microbes convert saturated hydrocarbon hexadecane to methane and carbon dioxide, leading to potential methane formation in old sediments. This process, known as microbial hydrocarbon 'cracking,' sheds light on slow yet globally relevant microbial processes in deep subsurface environments.
Physicists at Johns Hopkins University have identified the molecular origins of static friction, resolving a long-standing issue in understanding Amontons' classic laws. The 'gunk in the middle' - hydrocarbon molecules between surfaces - provides an explanation for the linear relationship between force and load.
Research found that pollutants in house dust, such as PAHs, can enhance the inhibitory effect of chlorpyrifos on cholinesterase, a critical enzyme for nerve cell function. The study suggests that exposure to these pollutants may increase pesticide toxicity, posing health risks to humans.
Researchers have discovered complex organic molecules and mineralogical evidence of past life in the Martian meteorite ALH84001. The study suggests that these findings could be indicative of primitive life on early Mars.