Articles tagged with Industrial Chemistry
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a plan to enforce stricter ozone limits, despite opposition from the chemical industry and some environmental groups. The Clean Air Act allows EPA to review and adjust standards for ozone emissions, which have been linked to smog and respiratory illnesses.
The US Chemical Safety & Hazard Investigation Board has investigated over 130 accidents since its creation in 1998. The board's work has positively influenced industrial safety in the US and globally, producing over 90 accident reports and 40 safety videos with a budget of $12 million per year.
Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have developed a new technology that mimics imprint processes used in industrial manufacturing, creating nanowire-array structures similar to those found in touch-screens for sensors, computers, phones, and TVs. The pressure-based fabrication process is faster and more environmentally friendl...
Researchers at KTU created a cheaper and more efficient organic semiconductor material, which has been licensed to Tokyo Chemical Industry. The material has similar characteristics to existing alternatives but is significantly cheaper and easier to produce.
Researchers at Northwestern University designed a quantum cascade laser (QCL) frequency comb that is one order of magnitude more efficient than previous iterations. The new design emits over four times the output power, making it suitable for detecting industrial emissions, explosives, and chemical warfare agents.
Researchers found that short-term feeding of canned dog food resulted in a significant increase in BPA concentrations in dogs. The study also identified gut microbiome and metabolic changes associated with exposure to BPA from canned foods, which could have implications for human health.
Scientists have discovered two new chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) and one new hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFC) in the atmosphere, which were released into the air in recent years. The discovery strengthens the argument that there are many more man-made gases in the atmosphere that could pose a threat to the ozone layer.
Researchers developed a model called Perfumery Radar 2.0 to quantify perfumes' nuances, matching expert descriptions without biases. The tool helps perfumers create new scents by classifying fragrances into families and identifying their characteristics, such as spicy or sweet.
The Review finds that the number of recognized chemical causes of neurodevelopmental disorders has doubled, and the list of unregulated chemicals has expanded. Stringent controls could generate billions in savings and improve childhood health outcomes.
A new study from Harvard School of Public Health identifies toxic chemicals as a major contributor to neurodevelopmental disabilities among children. The researchers propose mandatory testing and international regulation to control the use of these substances.
The global chemical industry is expected to rise by 2.5% in the US and see increased sales in Europe, driven by strong economic growth in China and India. Low-priced natural gas from shale deposits and an uptick in housing starts are also contributing factors.
The UK chemical industry must radically transform its production processes to achieve absolute emission reductions by 2050, according to a new report. The sector's energy intensity and reliance on high-emission feedstocks pose significant challenges to meeting the Government's 80% greenhouse gas reduction target.
Researchers at UTHealth found phthalates in 72 commonly consumed food samples, with all products showing some level of phthalate contamination. The discovery raises concerns about exposure to toxic chemicals, particularly given the potential health risks associated with phthalates.
The National Science Foundation has extended the Center for Biorenewable Chemicals at Iowa State University with $12 million over three years. Researchers are developing new technologies that produce industrial chemicals from biorenewable resources, attracting industry partnerships and funding.
Researchers at UC Berkeley have developed a new iron-based material that can separate saturated hydrocarbons from unsaturated gases at high temperatures, eliminating the need for chilling. This breakthrough could lead to significant energy savings in the chemical industry, particularly in the production of plastics and fuels.
The American Chemical Society's Employment Outlook feature package explores the jobs situation for chemists, with a focus on the impact of economic weakness on hiring plans. The article also provides guidance for current and future job seekers to fully benefit from recruiters' services.
A game-changing catalyst has been discovered by University of Alberta researchers, offering a potential solution to the chemical industry's environmental and economic challenges. The new catalyst produces minimal waste and can achieve multiple turnovers, reducing the industry's ecological footprint.
Scientists find that honeysuckle extract improves UV-blocking ability of wool fabrics, providing significant potential as a natural UV-blocking agent for clothing. The extract remains effective after exposure to sunlight and laundering, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional sunblocks.
Georges Belfort has made seminal contributions in liquid-phase pressure-driven membrane-based processes, bioseparations engineering, interfacial science, and affinity separations. He is honored by the American Chemical Society for his outstanding research and practice contributions to the advancement of science and technology.
Researchers created a 'perfumery radar' system to classify perfume families, closely matching expert descriptions. The tool speeds up perfume development, saving time and money for manufacturers.
A new BMBF-funded research group is tackling climate change by recycling CO2 into valuable chemicals. The team, led by Dr. Jennifer Strunk, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by using light and water to convert CO2.
A new sensor array can detect multiple airborne toxins in a matter of seconds, providing essential monitoring for workers handling chemicals. The technology uses colorimetric sensors that are not affected by humidity, making it more reliable than previous electronic-nose technologies.
Gellman is leading a research team to create solid surfaces that can select between 'left-handed' and 'right-handed' versions of complex molecules, improving efficiency in chemical processes. The goal is to control chemical reactions to yield only the desired product, reducing waste and environmental impact.
A recent study published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture reveals that oregano oil is as effective as synthetic insecticides in controlling Rhizoppertha dominica beetle infestations. The natural compound works by inhibiting egg laying and larval development, posing no environmental harm.
The Global Innovation Imperatives (Gii) project aims to combat global health, environmental and societal issues through chemistry-based solutions. Key focus areas include advancing science breakthroughs and addressing pressing water concerns, such as cleanliness, availability and sustainability.
Researchers have modified the tanning process to make it more environmentally friendly, reducing chemical usage by 82% and energy consumption by nearly 40%. The new method does not compromise on leather quality, making it a significant step towards sustainable manufacturing.
Researchers at Tokyo University of Technology created a batter with the perfect crispiness and reduced fat content by adjusting water content and frying time. A moisture level of 60% and 5-minute fry time resulted in a highly crispy, lower-fat batter.
The POX method produces high-temperature and pressure synthesis gas, enabling ten times more power generation and lower exergy losses compared to conventional methods. This process can drive a gas turbine for power generation and is more compact than existing steam turbine systems.
Research suggests that blue corn tortillas are healthier for diabetics and dieters, with a lower starch content and higher protein levels than white tortillas. This makes them a potential solution for managing metabolic syndrome.
A simple oxygen treatment can extend the shelf life of organic produce, reducing losses and costs. This technique has shown promise in preventing scald formation and physiological diseases in apples, with potential applications for other organic fruits and vegetables.
A comprehensive study by University of California, Davis researchers found organically grown kiwifruit contain more health-promoting factors than conventionally grown counterparts. This increases antioxidant activity and vitamin C levels, suggesting potential benefits for heart health.
Chinese scientists develop heat and irradiation treatment to decrease levels of 'Pen a 1' allergen in prawns, reducing reactive proteins that cause seafood allergies. This non-GMO method may provide an alternative to genetic manipulation, suitable for those wary of genetically modified foods.
A new technique using ozone preserves grapes while boosting healthy compounds, potentially leading to hypoallergenic wines. The method shows promise for reducing sulphite use in winemaking, which can cause allergic reactions and affect the flavor of wine.
Research published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture reveals cloudy apple juice contains four times the concentration of polyphenols as clear varieties. Polyphenols have anti-cancer activity and can help prevent heart disease, supporting a healthier diet.
A new pesticide development with integrated sunscreen shields chemicals from UV light, increasing their effectiveness and reducing degradation. The technology has the potential to lower costs for farmers and minimize environmental impact.
Researchers apply slag to wheat growing in greenhouses, causing plants to grow spiky structures that repel rabbits, reducing grazing damage. The environmentally friendly method uses a plentiful byproduct of blast furnaces and could circumvent pesticide regulatory approval.
A review study identifies 202 industrial chemicals that can damage the developing brain, leading to neurodevelopmental disorders. The researchers urge a precautionary approach for chemical testing and control to protect children's brains from toxic effects.
Researchers develop an alternative to animal testing by tricking ticks into setting up home on faux-cow hides. This method measures leg tremblings of ticks to observe early signs of pesticide toxicity.
A study found that feeding babies alcoholic milk may protect against some food allergies. Kefir's friendly bacteria block the pathway involved in allergic responses, reducing IgE levels and activating cells responsible for histamine release. The research suggests kefir could be a promising tool in preventing allergies.
Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have discovered a green catalyst, Fe-TAML, that can efficiently destroy nitrophenol pollutants. The catalyst works with hydrogen peroxide and has shown promise in killing biological warfare agents, reducing fuel pollutants, and detoxifying pesticides.
The development of micro-reactors poses a challenge to the Chemical Weapons Convention's monitoring and verification capabilities. These small reactors can produce lethal chemicals with minimal signature, making it harder to detect malicious intent.
The American Chemical Society reports that chemical production and earnings have increased, while employment numbers have declined. This trend is based on the ACS's annual Facts & Figures tables, which provide detailed statistics on the US chemical industry.
A group of researchers argue that industrial chemicals in the environment pose significant health risks to children due to their exposure through inhalation, ingestion, and placental transfer. The lack of developmental neurotoxicity testing for 75% of high-production volume chemicals is a major concern.
Olah's work on hydrocarbon chemistry led to improvements in lead-free gasoline, cleaner fuels, and insights into chemical processes used in pharmaceutical and industrial chemistry. He also developed a new, highly efficient fuel cell and has guided over 200 research associates throughout his distinguished career.
The American Chemical Society's 80th anniversary issue highlights the Periodic Table of Elements, exploring its role in everyday life and containing pertinent technical information. The special issue features essays from Nobel Prize winners, industry experts, and authors who helped discover elements.
The Pfizer Inc team won the Heroes of Chemistry award for developing Neurontin, a medication controlling seizures in children. This breakthrough led to improved quality of life for many children with epilepsy, demonstrating the valuable role chemists play in improving lives.
Element 110, darmstadtium, has been named by the International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry after its discovery in Darmstadt, Germany. The element was synthesized through a fusion-evaporation experiment using a 62Ni beam on an isotopically enriched 208Pb target.
The American Chemical Society's editor-in-chief, Jacobs, has won a national award for her efforts to encourage women in chemistry careers. Despite complex issues such as family life and career demands, Jacobs continues to advocate for women in the field through publications and public speaking.
Maryanoff, a renowned medicinal chemist, has developed topiramate, a successful drug approved in over 70 countries to treat epilepsy and other central nervous system disorders. His work also focuses on structure-based drug design, with recent breakthroughs in human clinical trials.
Manzer has led the development of commercially viable replacements for CFCs, including HFC 134A in automobile air conditioners. He also designed catalysts that can make polycarbonate without generating another ozone-depleting compound as a byproduct.
The American Chemistry Council predicts a second-half recovery for the chemical industry globally, with 3.5% growth in physical chemical volume expected this year. Basic chemical shipments are expected to grow 3.8%, with the fertilizer industry leading the way with a 5.0% increase.
The Chemical Heritage Foundation has received a $250,000 grant from the Rollin M. Gerstacker Foundation to support its oral history program. This funding will help preserve the history of the chemical industry and molecular sciences through recorded interviews with key players.
Harold A. Sorgenti receives the Petrochemical Heritage Award for his entrepreneurial and community leadership achievements in the petrochemical sector. The award recognizes his significant contributions to the modern sciences, industries, and economies.
The award recognizes Laing's successful implementation of diversity strategies, including promoting women to management roles and supporting part-time employees. With nearly 25% of unit managers being women, his work has significantly altered the demographic makeup of Xerox's supplies delivery unit.
Lester, a renowned chemist from Salem, Virginia, has won the ACS E.V. Murphree Award in Industrial and Engineering Chemistry for his pioneering contributions to catalytic converter technology. This innovation has significantly reduced pollutants in automobile exhaust by 99 percent since 1975.
The International Chemical Congress of Pacific Basin Societies (Pacifichem 2000) will bring together scientists from 20 Pacific Rim nations to share research in ten key areas of chemistry. The congress accepted a record number of papers, with over 180 symposia planned.
Chemist L.C. 'Bud' Rubens of Midland, Mich., is recognized for his groundbreaking work on gaseous blowing agents and their role in creating polymer foams with unique properties. He has obtained 58 U.S. patents and continues to be an active consultant at 80 years old.
The Ovshinskys will be designated one of 12 Heroes of Chemistry by the American Chemical Society for their development of better batteries for electric cars and roof shingles that convert sunlight to electricity. They are also working on making use of hydrogen as fuel practical and affordable.
A Swiss research team led by Peter Buehlmayer has discovered valsartan, a drug controlling high blood pressure without side effects. The team's work has improved the lives of millions worldwide, offering hope for those affected by hypertension.
M. David Francis, an Ohio-based physical biochemist, received a national award from the American Chemical Society for his pioneering work on fluoride additives in toothpaste and pharmaceuticals.