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A fix for frost: Engineers use electricity to zap ice without heat or chemicals

Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a new method for removing frost from surfaces using electrostatic defrosting (EDF), which can remove up to 75% of the frost without the need for heat or chemicals. The approach uses high voltage to polarize the frost, creating an electric field that detaches microscopic ice crystals.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalSmall Methods·DateNov 11, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Planets without water could still produce certain liquids, a new study finds

Scientists found that ionic liquids, formed from sulfuric acid and organic compounds, could persist on planets too warm for water to exist. This discovery increases the habitability zone for rocky worlds, suggesting life might be possible without water.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 11, 2025

Simplified models, deeper insights: Coarse-grained models unlock new potential for ionic liquid simulations

Researchers have developed new coarse-grained (CG) models to simulate ionic liquids (ILs), addressing their high viscosity in molecular dynamics simulations. These models offer deeper insights into IL structure-property relationships and enable applications in biological and electrochemical systems.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 2025

A little salt is good for battery health

Scientists at KAUST discovered how free water compromises battery life and performance, but also found a solution with affordable salts like zinc sulfate. The study showed that sulfate reduces the amount of free water in batteries, increasing their lifespan by more than ten times.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 2025

Solving an 80-year-old mystery: the crystal structure of a tetra-n-butylammonium bromide hydrate found with synchrotron radiation

Researchers have solved the crystal structure of tetra-n-butylammonium bromide hydrate (TBAB) hydrate, a semiclathrate hydrate used in air conditioning. The unique tetragonal superstructure explains its heat storage characteristics and provides new design principles for hydrate-based functional materials.

SourceYokohama National University·JournalCrystal Growth & Design·DateJul 18, 2025

World's first 1,000-ton ionic liquid cellulose fiber plant launches, enabling near-zero emission textiles

The world's first thousand-ton-scale ionic liquid-based regenerated cellulose fiber project has officially commenced operations in Henan Province, China. The technology uses non-volatile, stable ionic liquids as solvents to replace toxic solvents, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by an estimated 5,000 tons per year.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJul 16, 2025
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.

Unlocking the potential of 4.7 V solid-state 18650 cylindrical lithium metal batteries: A leap forward in long cycle-life and safety

Researchers develop a gel polymer electrolyte with a localized high-concentration solvation structure, enabling solid-state batteries to operate at 4.7 V with high energy density and cycling stability. The new electrolyte also exhibits exceptional safety characteristics, including no electrolyte leakage or combustion.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 17, 2025

Developing printable droplet laser displays

Droplets of a specific organic liquid emit laser light when an electric field is applied, demonstrating electrically switchable 'laser pixels.' A 2x3 array of these droplets can be controlled individually for high-density displays.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 6, 2025
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.

Emerging electronic materials for next generation soft bioelectronic applications: From material designs to devices performances

Liquid-based electronic materials offer inherent flexibility and conformability, mitigating mechanical mismatches between human tissues and electronic devices. These materials have been demonstrated in various applications such as strain sensors, touch sensors, implantable stimulators, encapsulation solutions, and adhesives.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 10, 2024

Research aims to streamline the detection of foodborne viruses

The research aims to develop a new method for detecting foodborne viruses like norovirus and hepatitis A in time to prevent or quickly respond to an outbreak. The technology uses magnetic liquids to concentrate viruses from large food samples into smaller volumes, streamlining the detection process.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·DateAug 8, 2024
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.

Ionic liquids: “Don’t shake it”

Researchers developed a technique to separate well-mixed mixtures, creating an economically viable process for synthesizing and purifying ionic liquids like [bmim][BF4]. High-purity [bmim][BF4] was produced with a purity exceeding 99%, and the recovered layer containing methylimidazole could be recycled.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalIndustrial & Engineering Chemistry Research·DateJul 5, 2024

Researchers create new class of materials called ‘glassy gels’

Glassy gels are a new class of materials that combine the properties of glassy polymers and gels, with unique characteristics including high elasticity and adhesive surfaces. The materials were created by mixing liquid precursors with an ionic liquid, resulting in a hard yet stretchable material.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 19, 2024

Looking for a new battery platform? Focus on the essentials!

Researchers developed a novel air-handleable garnet-type solid electrolyte technology that improves surface and internal properties, preventing contamination layer formation. This innovation enables the creation of ultra-thin lithium solid-state batteries with high energy density and low weight.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateJun 11, 2024
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.

Polymeric films protect anodes from sulfide solid electrolytes!

Researchers developed polymeric protective films to improve anode interface stability in sulfide-based all-solid-state batteries. The films, made from various polymers, showed improved interfacial stability and high-capacity retention rates after multiple cycles.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMay 28, 2024

Promising advances in organosilica membranes for separating organic liquid mixtures

Scientists have created a novel organosilica membrane using imidazolium-type ionic liquids, achieving high selectivity and permeability in separating organic liquid mixtures. The findings suggest that this technology has the potential to replace energy-intensive distillation processes in chemical industries.

SourceNagoya Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Membrane Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 28, 2024

A battery’s hopping ions remember where they’ve been

In a groundbreaking study, researchers observed that battery ions change direction and return to previous positions before resuming their random travels. The 'fuzzy memory' of the ions lasts just a few billionths of a second but will help scientists predict ion behavior.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2024

Potential solvents identified for building on moon and Mars

Using machine learning and computational modeling, Washington State University researchers found six good candidates for solvents that can extract materials on the moon and Mars usable in 3D printing. The solvents, called ionic liquids, are salts in a liquid state.

SourceWashington State University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateJan 11, 2024
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.

Aptamers: lifesavers; ion shields: aptamer guardians

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology discovered a breakthrough approach to stabilize aptamers using ionic liquids. The team found that these liquid-based environments can shield nucleic acids from enzymes, preserving their functions up to 6.5 million times longer than conventional methods.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNucleic Acids Research·DateJan 1, 2024

Scientists unveil fire-safe fuel

Scientists at the University of California - Riverside have developed a fire-safe fuel that cannot ignite without an external electrical current. This breakthrough could significantly reduce the risk of wildfires and improve energy efficiency.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 28, 2023

Breakthrough: Peering into nanofluidic mysteries one photon at a time

Scientists have developed a new approach to study molecular behavior in confined spaces, allowing for real-time tracking of individual molecules within nanofluidic structures. This breakthrough enables the use of single-photon emitters as nanoscale probes, providing unprecedented insights into molecular properties and behaviors.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 31, 2023
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.

An ingredient in toothpaste may make electric cars go farther

Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory discovered a new fluoride electrolyte that can protect lithium metal batteries against performance decline. The electrolyte maintains a robust protective layer on the anode surface for hundreds of cycles, enabling the battery to last longer.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 28, 2023

Aluminium-ion batteries with improved storage capacity

A research team has developed an organic redox polymer that surpasses the capacity of graphite, enabling aluminium-ion batteries to store up to 167 milliampere hours per gram. The battery retains 88% of its capacity after 5,000 charge cycles at 10 C.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJun 13, 2023
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.

New concept for lithium-air batteries

Researchers are working on a new concept for lithium-air batteries that could lead to significant improvements in energy storage capacity. A collaborative project in Germany aims to test new materials and components to enhance the stability of these battery cells. The goal is to overcome technical challenges such as unstable electrolyt...

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·DateMay 5, 2023

Ionic liquids' good vibrations change laser colors with ease

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory demonstrate a new color-shifting strategy that relies on interactions between lasers and vibrational energy in ionic liquids. The method offers an efficient and customizable approach to shift laser colors, with applications in science, industry, and medicine.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateJan 19, 2023

Development of an easy-to-synthesize self-healing gel composed of entangled ultrahigh molecular weight polymers

A research team has developed a method to easily synthesize a self-healing polymer gel made of ultrahigh molecular weight (UHMW) polymers and non-volatile ionic liquids. The gel exhibits superior mechanical properties, high self-healing capabilities, and can be recycled via thermal processing.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2022
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Generality vs. specificity: unraveling the electric double layer structure of highly ionic liquid electrolytes

A team of researchers used molecular dynamics simulations and electrochemical 3D atomic force microscopy to study the electric double layer structure of an ionic liquid on crystalline electrodes. They found that intermolecular interactions among cations and anions are stronger than electrode-specific interactions, proposing a key descr...

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateNov 17, 2022

Two-dimensional ionic liquids to effectively capture carbon dioxide

Researchers found that two-dimensional ionic liquids exhibit anomalous stepwise melting processes, leading to high CO2 adsorption capacity and structural robustness. This technology could provide a new method for precise control and functional design of liquids, promising various chemical engineering applications.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateJul 12, 2022
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Engineers at UBC get under the skin of ionic skin

Researchers at UBC create ionic skins made of flexible hydrogels that use ions to carry an electrical charge. These hydrogels can generate voltages when touched, producing a piezoionic effect that allows them to detect pressure and other stimuli. The technology has potential applications in prosthetics, wearable sensors, and body impla...

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2022

Chemists suggest using polymeric ionic liquids in supercapacitors

A team of researchers created a theoretical model demonstrating the difference in electrical differential capacitance between polymeric and ordinary ionic liquids. They predict a huge increase in capacitance for polymeric ionic liquids compared to regular ionic liquids with the same chemical composition.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateMar 11, 2022

New material offers remarkable combo of toughness and stretchiness

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new material with remarkable toughness and stretchiness, comparable to cartilage. The ionogels created by the team exhibit self-healing and shape memory properties, making them suitable for various applications.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2022
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.

Ionic-liquid-modified non-precious metal catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction -- temperature effect

Researchers investigated the effect of temperature on Ionic-liquid-modified non-precious metal catalysts for oxygen reduction reactions, demonstrating that IL modification significantly increases ORR activity and stability, even at elevated temperatures. The study confirms the SCILL concept's potential in improving LTFCs.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateDec 15, 2021

Researchers propose method to increase charge of supercapacitors

A new theoretical model of supercapacitors takes into account cation properties to increase electric differential capacitance. The authors believe this will lead to the creation of more powerful energy sources in the future.

SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateDec 1, 2021

The proton conduction mechanism in protic ionic liquids

Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the proton conduction mechanism in protic ionic liquids, a key component in fuel cells. The study reveals that the mechanism shifts from proton hopping to vehicle mechanism with increasing acidity, enabling the development of new hydrogen ion conductors.

SourceNiigata University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateFeb 4, 2021
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.

An ionic forcefield for nanoparticles

Researchers at Harvard have developed an ionic forcefield coating that allows nanoparticles to bypass the immune system's first line of defense. In mouse experiments, coated nanoparticles survived longer in the body and reached their target location with increased efficiency.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 25, 2020

Promising strategies for durable perovskite solar cells

Researchers developed feasible approaches for durable perovskite photovoltaics by addressing internal instability, chemical degradation, and environmental factors. Compositional engineering and bonding passivation are promising methods to improve device durability.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Materials·DateOct 27, 2020

Ionic liquid electrolyte for potassium batteries

A nonflammable ionic liquid electrolyte has been developed for potassium batteries, allowing for the creation of safe and efficient batteries. The battery demonstrated high energy and power density, retaining around 89% of its original capacity after 820 cycles with a coulombic efficiency of 99.9%.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 26, 2020
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.

Science snapshots September 2020

Researchers have developed a new technique to fabricate tiny circuits from ultrathin materials for next-generation electronics. Plants are being engineered to produce new molecules with enhanced properties, while lignin is transformed into a precursor for a useful chemical with wide range of applications

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalACS Central Science·DateSep 30, 2020

Green chemistry approaches to the synthesis of coumarin derivatives

The synthesis of coumarin derivatives can be performed using various green chemistry methods, including ultrasound, microwaves, and solvent-free synthesis. These methods reduce the utilization and generation of toxic organic substances, while also enhancing product yields and purity.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Organic Chemistry·DateApr 20, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Can ionic liquids transform chemistry?

Researchers are exploring the use of ionic liquids as a more sustainable and efficient way to produce industrial materials like fibers and fuels. The unique properties of these molten salts make them an attractive alternative to traditional solvents, with potential applications in chemical synthesis, biomass refining, and energy storage.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateFeb 5, 2020

Providing safe, clean water

Researchers introduce a new water purification method using magnetic nanoparticles coated with an ionic liquid, effectively removing organic, inorganic, and microbial contaminants. The nanoparticles can be easily removed with magnets, making them a promising starting point for decentralized water purification systems.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 29, 2019

Ionic liquid treatment for obesity

Rats fed a high-fat diet showed 12% less body weight gain after ingesting an ionic liquid containing choline and geranate once daily for 30 days. The treatment also decreased food intake and intestinal fat uptake by 60-70%.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 25, 2019

First research results from the Estonian-Finnish FinEstBeAMS beamline

The FinEstBeAMS beamline at the MAX IV Laboratory in Sweden has conducted its first scientific experiments, studying the electronic structure of three ionic liquids. The research aims to understand the properties of ionic liquids for their application potential in supercapacitors.

SourceEstonian Research Council·JournalJournal of Molecular Liquids·DateNov 15, 2019