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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.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 6, 2025

‘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.

SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalACS Nano·TypeImaging analysis·DateMay 20, 2025

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.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2025

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.

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.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalChem·DateApr 11, 2025

Royalty among us

Richard Willson, a University of Houston professor, has been elected Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry for his contributions to the chemical sciences. He has developed innovative methods to detect viruses and other biological threats using glow-in-the-dark nanoparticles.

Toughening vitrimers based on dioxaborolane metathesis through introducing a reversible secondary interaction

Researchers develop a dual-cross-linked network that enhances the toughness and stretchability of polymeric materials. The introduction of reversible secondary interactions between chemically exchangeable units and NIPAM improves ductility, while optimizing the number density of hydrogen bonds achieves optimal results.

SourceBeijing Zhongke Journal Publising Co. Ltd.·JournalPolymer Science & Technology·DateJan 14, 2025

Synthetic chemicals and chemical products require a new regulatory and legal approach to safeguard children’s health

A report by the Consortium for Children's Environmental Health calls for new laws to test chemicals for safety and toxicity before they enter markets. The authors propose a more precautionary approach to prioritize health protection over unconstrained production of synthetic chemicals and plastics.

SourceBoston College·JournalNew England Journal of Medicine·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 8, 2025

Unveiling unknown chemicals in human serum samples

A study by Chiba University researchers has identified 106 compounds in pregnant women's serum samples, including phthalates, nitrogenous compounds, and parabens, which may impact biological pathways. The study proposes a non-targeted approach for detecting foreign chemicals and evaluating their potential health effects.

SourceChiba University·JournalEcotoxicology and Environmental Safety·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 5, 2024

Harnessing multi-element perovskites as catalysts for selective oxidation of light alkanes

Researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo successfully developed a multi-element perovskite catalyst that selectively oxidizes light alkanes to alcohols with high yield and selectivity. The breakthrough catalyst operates under mild conditions and exhibits excellent stability and reusability.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 29, 2024

Two hundred times better catalysts thanks to carbon

Scientists have discovered that adding carbon to metal nanoparticles makes them 200 times more active, which could lead to significant cost savings and improved efficiency in industrial processes. The discovery was made possible by precise measurements and simulations of the interaction between metal nanoparticles and a carbon substrate.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalACS Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 11, 2024

Turning silver to gold: A diacetylene derivative-based metallic luster materials

Scientists create diacetylene derivative-based luster materials with tunable colors and metallic lusters, opening new possibilities for applications in jewelry, printing inks, and cosmetics. The developed material can express a golden luster selectively using light irradiation, minimizing environmental footprint and weight.

SourceChiba University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

Microwaving waste cooking oil into useful chemicals

A team from Kyushu University has developed a zeolite catalyst that can be heated using microwaves to speed up the conversion of fatty acid esters to olefins. This process improves energy efficiency and reduces carbon dioxide production, offering a more sustainable chemical industry.

SourceKyushu University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2024

Teaching an old metal new tricks

Researchers at the California Institute of Technology have successfully developed a method to recycle samarium diiodide, a crucial reagent in synthesizing molecules that can lead to new pharmaceuticals. This breakthrough enables large-scale industrial production, making it possible to create essential compounds like taxol, an anticance...