Industrial Chemistry

Better batteries begin with optimized slurry processing

Azide-to-diazo conversion offers safer route to versatile diazo compounds

Researchers have developed a novel method to generate diazo compounds without toxic precursors, enabling efficient synthesis of valuable intermediates for chemical and pharmaceutical applications. The phosphine-mediated Michael addition reaction produces β-heteroatom-substituted diazo esters under mild conditions.

A new strategy for synthesizing polyfunctionalized biaryls without transition-metal catalysts

Researchers develop substrate design strategy to selectively promote benzidine-type sigmatropic rearrangement of nitroarenes, enabling efficient synthesis of polyfunctionalized biaryls. The method achieves high yields without expensive transition-metal catalysts or complex prefunctionalization.

Toward tougher, longer-lasting, more sustainable tires

Harvard engineers develop new method to preserve long molecular chains in natural rubber, resulting in composite materials that are both stiff and tough. The innovation has the potential to cut waste, reduce tire dust pollution, and open new avenues for high-performance elastomers.

Floatable, biodegradable composite beads show promise for large-scale oil spill remediation

Researchers have created a novel sorbent made from chitosan/cellulose acetate and bentonite composites that show promise for cleaning up oil spills. The beads are floatable, biodegradable, and environmentally compatible, making them an efficient and cost-effective solution.

Bottled lightning makes a cleaner fuel

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a single-step process to turn methane into methanol without high heat and pressures. The method harnesses tiny bursts of plasma to break the chemical bonds in methane, producing a cleaner-burning fuel for ships and industrial boilers.

The secret lives of catalysts: How microscopic networks power reactions

Researchers visualized activity across a platinum catalyst with unprecedented detail, revealing coordinated, interconnected systems. Individual crystal grains specialize in different chemical steps, and cooperative electron flows enhance overall reaction efficiency.

Shrinking the carbon footprint of chemical manufacturing with lasers, solar radiation

Researchers at University of Illinois have developed a new method using solar energy to power a key chemical reaction in the textile, plastic, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries. This method can significantly reduce the industry's carbon footprint by eliminating harsh oxidizing byproducts and minimizing carbon emissions.

Scientists create sustainable and cheaper catalysts from aluminium

Researchers at King's College London have developed highly reactive aluminium molecules that can break apart tough chemical bonds. The team discovered a new compound called cyclotrialumane, which exhibits unprecedented reactivity and retains its structure in various solutions.

Forest-based resins challenge fossil materials in wind turbines, boats and high-performance adhesives

Researchers at the University of Oulu have developed new bio-based resins that match or exceed the performance of fossil-based counterparts. The resins are produced from biomass-derived platform chemicals and offer a critical sustainability advantage: chemical recyclability.

Plant-based material offers sustainable method of recovering rare earth element

Researchers at Penn State develop novel technology to isolate and recover dysprosium, a critical rare earth element used in semiconductors and other applications. The new approach uses cellulose-based nanocellulose to selectively separate dysprosium from other elements, promoting a more environmentally friendly and efficient method.

Renewable biological catalyst carries the potential to transform wastewater into phosphorus resource

Researchers developed a process to convert phytate into bioavailable phosphate using a biocatalyst, improving phosphorus recycling efficiency. The method uses engineered yeast cells displaying the enzyme phytase, which can efficiently and stably convert organic phosphorus into usable phosphate.

Coupling dynamic effect based on the molecular sieve regulation of Fe nanoparticles

A Fe@ZSM-5 catalyst demonstrates improved high-temperature NO conversion and stability in NH3-SCR, thanks to the regulation of molecular sieves. The research reveals two kinetic regimes, with optimal Si/Al ratio of 27 for high-temperature NO conversion.

From biocidal coatings to medicines: A nanocomposite sting for microorganisms

The B-STING silica nanocomposite acts as a nanofactory of reactive oxygen species, activating itself in response to changes in the chemical environment. This material can be used to create biocidal coatings that are safe, durable, and resistant to dirt, with potential applications in medicine and other industries.

York U study finds forever chemical plumets in urban atmosphere during pandemic

Researchers found significant decline of atmospheric trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) in Toronto during COVID-19, suggesting its sources and enabling future reduction strategies. The decrease is attributed to short-lived chemical precursors emitted into the atmosphere, offering new hope for mitigating this persistent pollutant.

Pine bark removes pharmaceutical residues from wastewater – an affordable way to keep antibiotics out of nature

Researchers at the University of Oulu have developed a pine-bark-based water-treatment medium that efficiently removes antibiotics and other pharmaceuticals from wastewater treatment plant effluent. The method uses modified pine bark and combination materials, achieving removal efficiencies in the tens of percent to over 90%.

Jeonbuk National University researchers develop novel dual-chemical looping method for efficient ammonia synthesis

Researchers at Jeonbuk National University have developed a new dual-chemical looping process that improves the efficiency of ammonia synthesis by 8.4% and reduces global warming potential by up to 15.85 kg CO2-equivalent per kilogram of ammonia produced.

Scientists solve 66 million-year-old mystery of how Earth’s greenhouse age ended

Researchers discovered that a significant drop in calcium levels in the ocean led to a massive decrease in carbon dioxide, driving global cooling and ending the planet's greenhouse era. The study suggests that changes in seawater chemistry played a key role in shaping climate history.

Danish chemist's invention could make counterfeiting a thing of the past

A new digital and legally binding fingerprint developed at the University of Copenhagen makes products impossible to counterfeit. Royal Copenhagen is among the first brands in the world to use this solution, resulting in immediate transparency across their distribution chain.

Researchers develop electricity-free chlorine production from brines

Scientists have created a system that harnesses the energy in chloride-rich brines to produce chlorine without needing external power. The innovative approach integrates hydrochloric acid recovery with chlorine and hydrogen generation, offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional methods.

Turning garden and crop waste into plastics

A new Junior Research Group at the University of Oldenburg aims to create fully biodegradable plastics from organic waste. The team will investigate various processes, including fermentation and downstreaming, to produce polybutylene succinate (PBS) based on polybutylene succinate.

Wiley announces Nanalysis Edition of KnowItAll software

The Nanalysis Edition of KnowItAll combines Wiley's analytical software platform with Nanalysis' specialized NMR database, streamlining spectral interpretation workflows for users. The tailored solution provides immediate access to reference spectra optimized for benchtop NMR instruments, expanding compound identification coverage.

Tracing the quick synthesis of an industrially important catalyst

A team from Tokyo Metropolitan University has uncovered the sequence of events in the formation of hexaniobate clusters, revealing a precursor's vital role in rapid catalyst formation. This insight promises finer control over an industrially important technology for speeding up chemical synthesis.

Toxin-to-treasure: Chonnam National University scientists use engineered enzyme to turn formaldehyde pollutant into high-value chemical

Chonnam National University scientists use an engineered enzyme to convert formaldehyde into L-glyceraldehyde, a valuable chiral C3 compound. The novel approach demonstrates how enzyme engineering can turn pollution into useful building blocks for medicine and industry.

A hydrocarbon waste solution through a symbiosis network

Texas A&M researchers create a symbiosis network to interconnect industrial facilities, converting hydrocarbon waste into valuable products. The framework aims to maximize carbon utilization while minimizing emissions, cost, and processing steps.

Unveiling non-thermal catalytic origin of direct current-promoted catalysis for energy-efficient transformation of greenhouse gases to valuable chemicals

Scientists established a definitive charge-driven mechanism underlying the non-thermal catalytic enhancement observed in DC-applied DRM, focusing on Pd/CeO2 as a model catalyst. The study reveals a cooperative mechanism between trapped electrons and strain-induced holes as the microscopic origin of non-thermal catalysis under DC applic...

Recycling a pollutant to make ammonia production greener

Researchers have developed an electrocatalyst that efficiently converts nitrate into ammonia at low concentrations and gentle voltage. The catalyst reduces emissions linked to fertilizer and chemical manufacturing, and enables recycling of nitrate, a common pollutant found in groundwater and agricultural runoff.

24,000 times more harmful to the climate than CO2: Goethe University measurements reveal SF6 gas emissions in Germany

Researchers found significant SF6 emissions in Heilbronn region, amounting to approximately 30 tons per year, and exceeding previous estimates. The study aims to validate bottom-up assessments of emissions by complementing top-down emission estimates.

Scientists use textile ash to create extremely strong cement

Researchers at Kaunas University of Technology have developed a new way to turn textile waste into energy and high-performance cement materials. The production of alternative fuel from textile waste can reduce CO2 emissions during cement production, while also providing an innovative approach to textile waste management.

Recycling a pollutant to make ammonia production greener

A research team at Tohoku University developed an electrocatalyst that efficiently converts nitrate into ammonia under low-pressure conditions. The catalyst reduces emissions linked to fertilizer and chemical manufacturing, offering a promising solution for sustainable chemical production.

Uncovering the source of widespread ‘forever chemical’ contamination in North Carolina

Researchers at Duke University traced PFAS contamination to a local textile manufacturing plant in Burlington, NC. The facility was releasing solid nanoparticle PFAS precursors into the sewer system, which were then transformed into regulated forms of PFAS that current tests can detect.

Wiley expands spectral libraries with major updates to IR, Raman, and LC-MS collections

Wiley has expanded its spectral libraries with major updates to IR, Raman, and LC-MS collections, delivering researchers enhanced capabilities for faster and more confident compound identification. The expansion brings over 9.5 million high-quality spectra, including 1 million IR spectra and 161,000 Raman spectra.

How plastics grip metals at the atomic scale

Researchers used molecular dynamics simulations to investigate how polyamides adhere to alumina surfaces, finding that adhesion strength depends on polymer chemistry and surface termination. The study offers practical design guidelines for selecting surface treatments and polymer types, enabling the creation of stronger, lighter joints.

Five science-backed ways to make cheese production greener

A literature review of cheese fermentation and ripening identified five underused, evidence-based measures to improve efficiency and sustainability in cheese production. By exploiting whey and encapsulating lactic acid bacteria, dairies can reduce waste and optimize production processes.

A step closer to a sustainable method of producing ethylene

Scientists have identified an ancient enzyme called methylthio-alkane reductase (MAR) that breaks down organic sulfur compounds to create ethylene. The discovery opens the door for understanding how these enzymes work and potentially harnessing them for sustainable biofuel production.

Microwaves for energy-efficient chemical reactions

Researchers from the University of Tokyo developed a method to use microwaves to heat specific areas in industrial processes, reducing energy costs and improving selectivity in chemical reactions. This technique has the potential to optimize catalyst design, improve durability, and scalability for eco-friendly industrial processes.

Turning rust into fuel: MANA advances green rust catalyst for next-gen hydrogen vehicles

Researchers from MANA develop a cost-effective, high-performance catalyst using green rust to support the use of sodium borohydride as a hydrogen storage material. The new catalyst achieves comparable performance to precious metal-based materials and shows excellent durability.

In-situ molecular passivation enables pure-blue perovskite LEDs via vacuum thermal evaporation

Researchers develop an in-situ passivation strategy to overcome efficiency bottlenecks in thermally evaporated pure blue perovskite LEDs. The approach coordinates Pb(II) and suppresses halide-vacancy defects, achieving color-stable pure-blue emission with high luminance.

Breakthrough in indole chemistry could accelerate drug development

Researchers at Chiba University developed a method for selectively attaching an alkyl group to the C5 position of indole using a copper-based catalyst, producing yields of up to 91%. This approach could enable more affordable and scalable modification of indoles, crucial for drug development.

More types of PFAS ‘forever chemicals’ in Sydney tap water than previously thought

Researchers have identified 21 new PFAS chemicals in Sydney's tap water, exceeding previous estimates. The findings highlight the need for broader monitoring and underscore the persistence of 'forever chemicals' in human systems.

Using alcohol to reduce the costs of industrial water electrolysis

Researchers investigate hybrid water electrolysis (HWE) as a promising pathway to lower the cost of green hydrogen production and co-generate valuable products. They examine current state-of-the-art in HWE, including electrooxidation of alcohols, selectivity, circularity, and reactor design.

Advances in chemistry unlock new pathways for industrial carbon capture, new research finds

Recent advances in chemistry have led to innovations in industrial carbon capture technologies, reducing energy consumption by over 30% and improving efficiency. The research highlights novel amine blends, metal-organic frameworks, and electroswing technologies that can selectively capture CO2 with high efficiency.

Revolutionizing hydrogen fluoride synthesis: Scalable and safer generation

Researchers at Shibaura Institute of Technology have developed a scalable and safer method to generate hydrogen fluoride, eliminating the need for pressurized HF gas and corrosive liquid reagents. The new fluorinating complexes can be used for pharmaceuticals, functional materials, and molecular probes.

How do the SOx and NOx in flue gas influence the adsorptive-catalytic performance of integrated carbon capture and in situ dry reforming?

Researchers found that low concentrations of SO2 and NO2 in flue gas improve CO2 capture stability, but high concentrations lead to decreased adsorption capacity and catalytic reforming ability. The study suggests that coating layers of calcium-containing compounds on Ni nanoparticles contribute to deactivation.

Molecular simulations show graphite ‘hijacks’ diamond formation through unexpected crystallization pathways

Molecular simulations reveal that liquid carbon can form spontaneously into graphite even when diamond is the expected stable phase. The team found complex crystallization behavior and identified graphite as a stepping stone for diamond formation, explaining long-standing discrepancies in high-pressure carbon experiments.

Facile method for carboxylic acid activation using inexpensive commercial organic photocatalysts

Researchers developed a facile hydrogen atom transfer method using xanthone as a promising ketone photocatalyst for activating carboxylic acids. The method generates minimal reaction waste and has broad applicability with over 40 examples. It also reveals a novel photocatalysis of ketones.

Novel silica aerogel for efficient carbon emission reduction

A new silica aerogel has been developed for efficient carbon emission reduction, exhibiting high thermal resistance and gas adsorption capacity. The integration of amine and methyl groups in the aerogel is achieved through a facile and environmentally friendly self-catalyzed sol-gel reaction.

Scientists use AI to make green ammonia even greener

Researchers have developed a more efficient method for producing green ammonia using artificial intelligence and machine learning. The new process achieves a sevenfold improvement in production rate while being nearly 100% efficient, making it a viable alternative to traditional methods.

The Stockholm declaration for more sustainable chemistry

The Stockholm Declaration on Chemistry for the Future emphasizes the need to integrate health and sustainability in chemical products and processes. It calls for action from scientists, industry, educators, students, and policymakers to collaborate on implementing solutions that balance human well-being with environmental protection.

Espaitec and the Multiphase Fluids Group of the UJI present a demonstrator for optimizing water treatment plants

The team developed a demonstrator to optimize water treatment plant operation through full-scale tests at CIRTESU. The system simulates processes, measures water velocity and turbulence, and analyzes mixing effects.

‘Sharkitecture:’ A nanoscale look inside a blacktip shark’s skeleton

Researchers from Florida Atlantic University and the German Electron Synchrotron mapped the internal structure of blacktip sharks in unprecedented detail, discovering a microscopic 'sharkitecture' composed of densely packed collagen and bioapatite. This intricate structure gives cartilage surprising strength while allowing flexibility.

New color-changing sensor detects alcohol with a smartphone snap

A portable and highly sensitive ethanol sensor has been developed using a copper-based metal–organic framework thin film, enabling precise optical measurements without complex lab equipment. The sensor can visually detect varying ethanol levels, even at low concentrations, and can be integrated with a smartphone app for easy use.

Wiley adds Raman data to its KnowItAll Libraries, including microplastics, biopolymers, polymer and monomers, and minerals

Wiley adds new data to its KnowItAll Raman Spectral Library collection, bringing the total to over 27,000 spectra. This expansion enhances lab efficiency and accuracy through reliable spectral analysis.

A smarter way to make sulfones: Using molecular oxygen and a functional catalyst

Researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo developed a novel catalyst that efficiently produces sulfones at low temperatures, achieving high selectivity and reducing precious metal consumption. The new SrMn₁₋xRu_xO₃ catalyst offers significant advantages over conventional systems, making it suitable for various industries.

Urine, not water for efficient production of green hydrogen

Scientists create two innovative electrolysis systems that use urea found in urine and wastewater to produce green hydrogen at a lower cost than traditional methods. The breakthrough overcomes limitations such as toxic by-products and corrosion issues, paving the way for scalable production.

Atomically dispersed catalysts are tough puzzles to solve, but worth the effort

Researchers are developing atomically dispersed catalysts to make industrial processes cleaner and more efficient. However, the field is plagued by common pitfalls, including inadequate testing and characterization. Experts like Jason Bates and E. Charles Sykes emphasize the need for repeatable, rigorous science.

Scientists create a ‘brilliantly luminous’ nanoscale chemical tool

Researchers developed fluorescent polyionic nanoclays that can be customized for medical imaging, sensor technology, and environmental protection. These tiny clay-based materials exhibit high brightness and versatility, enabling precise tuning of optical properties.

Watch a live catalytic event in real time

A Northwestern University-led team directly observes a catalytic event in real time, discovering short-lived intermediate molecules and a previously hidden reaction pathway. This breakthrough enables scientists to understand how catalysts work, potentially leading to more efficient and sustainable chemical processes.

Rethinking coupling methods for more sustainable organic synthesis

A comprehensive review article highlights emerging strategies that enable environmentally benign coupling reactions, reducing reliance on rare metals and lowering energy consumption. The hypervalent iodine approach facilitates selective bond formation with high functional group tolerance and broad substrate scope.

New material for efficient separation of D2 at elevated temperatures

A novel copper-based zeolite imidazolate framework (Cu-ZIF-gis) has been developed to separate deuterium (D2) from hydrogen (H2) at 120 K (-153°C), exceeding the liquefaction point of natural gas. This material exhibits improved separation efficiency and lower energy consumption compared to traditional methods.