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Antibacterial bioactive glass doubles down on microbial resistance to antibiotics

Aston University researchers have developed a technique to boost antimicrobial properties of bioactive glass, which could reduce infections and antibiotic prescriptions. The new approach combines metal oxides, significantly improving bacterial kill rates over single oxides alone.

SourceAston University·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2022

Boosting thermopower of oxides via artificially laminated metal/insulator heterostructure

Researchers developed a new method to significantly enhance thermoelectric voltage at low temperatures by creating laminate structures with transition metal oxide and insulating layers. The 'phonon-drag effect' is responsible for the enhancement, where flowing phonons drive electrons to produce extra thermoelectric voltage.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2021

Finding a metal-oxide needle in a periodic table haystack

The new method uses ink-jet printers and hyperspectral imaging to create hundreds of thousands of material combinations in a single trial run. A cobalt-tantalum-tin compound was discovered that exhibits tunable transparency and acts as a good catalyst for chemical reactions.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2021
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.

The Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology study examines thin film surface symmetries

Researchers at GIST develop a non-contact, nondestructive approach to characterize crystal structures in thin films, shedding light on surface symmetries in SrRuO3. The technique offers a platform for structural characterization of surfaces and interfaces using optical techniques.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalApplied Surface Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2021

Thumb-sized device quickly 'sniffs out' bad breath

A new thumb-sized device can diagnose bad breath by sniffing out hydrogen sulfide gas in exhalations, correctly identifying it 86% of the time. The device combines a metal oxide gas sensor with humidity, temperature and pressure sensors.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Nano·DateJul 21, 2021

Green hydrogen: "Rust" as a photoanode and its limits

Research on haematite, a widely known rust material, has been hindered by low photocurrent conversion efficiency compared to theoretical maximum values. A recent study reveals that the wavelength of absorbed light in hematite thin films affects its photoelectrochemical properties.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 19, 2021

Solar hydrogen: Photoanodes made of alpha-SnWO4 promise high efficiencies

Researchers have developed a new material, alpha-SnWO4, that could convert up to 20% of sunlight into chemical energy for hydrogen production. Thin layers of nickel oxide were found to reduce the photovoltage and degrade the material, but alternative deposition processes may improve performance.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateJan 26, 2021

Collaboration sparks new model for ceramic conductivity

An interdisciplinary collaboration has updated the small polaron hopping model to reflect different pathways for conduction in ceramics, enabling researchers to customize metal oxide properties. The new model reveals large energetic barriers associated with switching conduction paths between cations.

SourceCornell University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 22, 2020
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Decades-old mystery of lithium-ion battery storage solved

A team of researchers, led by the University of Texas at Austin, has cracked the code of a scientific anomaly that enables ultra-fast battery energy storage systems. They found metal compounds with up to three times the energy storage capability compared to common materials.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 2, 2020

Ultrafast electrons in magnetic oxides: A new direction for spintronics?

An international team of researchers has observed how electronic charge excitation changes electron spin in metal oxides in an ultrafast and inphase manner. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new ultra-fast storage systems and information technologies.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 19, 2020

How to gently caress atoms

Researchers at TU Wien develop a method to study metal oxide surfaces using a single oxygen atom attached to an atomic force microscope tip, allowing for gentle examination of surface structures without altering the atoms. The technique reveals different ways oxygen molecules attach to titanium atoms on the surface.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 8, 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.

Upgrading biomass with selective surface-modified catalysts

Researchers created a platinum-titania catalyst that selectively breaks carbon-oxygen bonds in plant derivatives, producing biofuels. The strategy could be applied to design stable and active catalysts for industrial chemical production from biomass-derived molecules.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Catalysis·DateMar 26, 2020

Researchers develop smaller, lighter radiation shielding

Researchers at NC State University have developed a new technique for shielding electronics from ionizing radiation, using oxidized metal powder - rust. The approach reduces weight and improves shielding, with potential applications in space exploration technology and aerospace devices.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalRadiation Physics and Chemistry·DateFeb 12, 2020

Hybrid transistor improves next-generation displays

Researchers at KAUST have developed a hybrid organic transistor for use in electronic displays and large-area electronics, overcoming production challenges of metal oxide TFTs.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Electronics·DateFeb 11, 2020

Near-infrared electrochromism of a new multilayered complex

Researchers have developed a new multilayered complex that displays high-performance near-infrared electrochromism. The complex, prepared by layer-by-layer coordination assembly on metal oxide substrates, exhibits two reversible redox waves and excellent electrochromic performance with a contrast ratio of up to 56% at 1150 nm.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience China Chemistry·DateNov 14, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Building a better chemical building block

The National Science Foundation awards $354,954 to Dr. Giannis Mpourmpakis' research on dehydrogenation of alkanes on metal oxides. This breakthrough could enable more efficient and cost-effective chemical production using abundant natural gas reserves.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateAug 2, 2019
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Zips on the nanoscale

A team of scientists has developed a new method for synthesizing nanographenes on non-metallic surfaces, including metal oxide surfaces. This innovation enables the creation of electronic nanocircuits that could replace existing microelectronics.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2019

Ultrasensitive toxic gas detector

Scientists have created a novel gas sensor based on vertically aligned WO3-CuO core-shell nanorod arrays, achieving ultrasensitivity to ammonia (NH3) gas. The hybrid sensor exhibits high gas response and short recovery times, making it suitable for detecting toxic gases.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalNANO·DateOct 31, 2018
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

BNAs improve performance of Li-ion batteries

Researchers from Northeastern University developed hierarchical Bi2MoO6 nanosheet arrays (BNAs) on 3D Ni foam, which exhibit a super high reversible discharge capacity of 2311.7 μAh/cm² and excellent cycle stability. The BNAs-integrated electrodes improve the cycle stability and capacity of lithium-ion batteries.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalNANO·DateJun 27, 2018

Self-healing metal oxides could protect against corrosion

A team of researchers found that an ultrathin layer of aluminum oxide can flow like a liquid, filling cracks and gaps as they form. This discovery could provide a protective barrier to prevent further oxidation and corrosion in metals, particularly in applications such as fuel-cell cars and nuclear power plants.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 4, 2018

What a mesh

Researchers have developed a method to create linked networks of metal oxides that can improve their ability to catalyze chemical reactions or harvest energy from light. This new material has potential applications in various fields, including catalysis and electronics.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateMar 29, 2018

New analysis explains role of defects in metal oxides

Researchers at MIT discovered that imperfections in metal oxide materials can alter their properties, enabling new types of low-energy computer memory and processing devices. The findings provide a theoretical framework to understand the effects of defects on material stability and structure under strong electric fields.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 21, 2017
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.

Solar hydrogen production by artificial leafs: Scientists analysed how a special treatment improves cheap metal oxide photoelectrodes

Researchers found that a heat treatment under hydrogen doubles the life span of charge carriers in metal oxide photoelectrodes, leading to improved photocurrent under sunlight. This breakthrough could potentially reduce costs and increase stability for commercialization.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateAug 28, 2017

Materials bend as they 'breathe' under high temperatures

A new system of oxide materials can be used to create actuators that function at temperatures above 500 degrees Celsius, enabling devices to open and close valves in hot environments. This technology could revolutionize maintenance tasks in nuclear plants and other high-temperature settings.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateMay 9, 2017

OU professor receives NSF Early CAREER award

The OU professor's research will integrate with educational and outreach programs for American Indian students, emphasizing the importance of sustainable energy. The study aims to quantify the role of catalytically active sites in biomass conversion processes.

SourceUniversity of Oklahoma·DateMar 9, 2017

Argonne invents reusable sponge that soaks up oil

Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory have invented a new foam called Oleo Sponge that can absorb and reuse oil from water. The material has been shown to collect diesel and crude oil from both below and on the surface of the water.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMar 7, 2017
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.

Boosting the lifetime and effectiveness of biomedical devices

Researchers have developed an electrografting approach to improve PEDOT adhesion, enabling longer lifespan and better performance of biomedical devices. The breakthrough enhances communication between devices and neural tissue, paving the way for more effective health interventions.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 3, 2017

Researchers use graphene templates to make new metal-oxide nanostructures

Researchers have developed a method for creating crumpled metal-oxide films using graphene templates, resulting in enhanced properties such as higher charge-carrying capacity and increased reactivity. This process allows for the introduction of wrinkle patterns on metal oxides, overcoming previous limitations.

SourceBrown University·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 7, 2016

Nanosensors on the alert for terrorist threats

Researchers have developed sensors based on binary metal oxide nanocomposites that can detect gas leaks, including those potentially linked to terrorist attacks. The sensors utilize chemisorption centers to facilitate gas molecule adsorption, enabling fast response times.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·DateNov 2, 2016

Pumping up energy storage with metal oxides

Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have discovered that certain metal oxides increase the capacity and cycling performance of lithium-ion batteries. The team created graphene-metal oxide nanocomposites and found two of them greatly improved reversible lithium storage capacity.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMar 21, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Water's reaction with metal oxides opens doors for researchers

A multi-institutional team has resolved a long-unanswered question about how water interacts with metal oxides. The study reveals two dramatically different pictures of water-metal oxide reactions, one forming amorphous networks on smooth surfaces and the other creating structured domains on hydroxylated surfaces.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 8, 2014

Stool samples provide marker for bowel disease

Researchers have developed a novel method to distinguish between different types of bowel disease using stool samples, with an overall accuracy of 76%. The technique uses volatile organic compounds emitted from the samples to provide a unique profile for each condition, offering a cheaper and quicker alternative to current methods.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalJournal of Breath Research·DateMar 27, 2014
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.

The best of 2 worlds: Solar hydrogen production breakthrough

Researchers have developed a highly efficient solar fuel device that can produce hydrogen from sunlight, with a potential to store energy for later use. The device uses a metal oxide photo anode and a cobalt phosphate catalyst to split water into hydrogen and oxygen.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 29, 2013

An innovative material for the green Earth

Researchers at Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST) have developed a novel method to synthesize hierarchically nanoporous frameworks of nanocrystalline metal oxides for CO2 adsorption. The material exhibits exceptionally high CO2 adsorption capacity, offering a potential solution to environmental pollution.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 17, 2013

Metal oxides hold the key to cheap, green energy

A new study by Binghamton University researcher Louis Piper reveals that metal oxides can be tailored to meet specific needs, enabling efficient energy generation and flat screen display technology. By adjusting the band gap of these materials, researchers can optimize their electronic properties for various applications.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalPhysical Review B·DateApr 18, 2012
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.

Metal oxide simulations could help green technology

The study reveals that metal oxides interact with water in metastable states, rather than sequential transitional forms. This finding has implications for understanding corrosion and developing sustainable technologies like batteries and hydrogen fuel.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 9, 2012

Nanowire-based sensors offer improved detection of volatile organic compounds

Researchers have developed nano-sized sensors that detect harmful pollutants at lower concentrations and with greater reliability than traditional commercial gas sensors. The new nanowire sensors operate at room temperature, reducing power consumption and enabling more widespread use.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalNanotechnology·DateJun 27, 2011

Wax, soap clean up obstacles to better batteries

Researchers at PNNL developed a simple one-step method to create high-capacity lithium manganese phosphate electrodes using paraffin wax and soap. The new process enables the exploration of cheaper alternatives to current lithium-ion-metal oxide batteries, with potential applications in electric vehicles and consumer electronics.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 12, 2010
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.

Terahertz waves are effective probes for IC heat barriers

Researchers at NIST discovered a new technique to measure key structural properties of nanoscale metal-oxide films using terahertz spectroscopy. The method allows for the detection of amorphous and crystalline structures in these films, which are crucial for predicting device performance.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalOptics Letters·DateMay 8, 2009

Flexible, transparent supercapacitors are latest devices from USC nanotube lab

Researchers at the University of Southern California have created a new type of supercapacitor that is both transparent and flexible, allowing for potential applications in 'e-paper' displays and conformable products. The device stores an energy density of 1.29 Watt-hour/kilogram, significantly higher than conventional capacitors.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 30, 2009
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Humboldt awarded for study of acid-mine drainage in Germany

Hochella will analyze samples from acid-mine drainage sites in Germany and the US using advanced equipment to develop better models of metal transport. This work aims to improve understanding of toxic-metal-bearing phases and their distribution in drainage systems.

SourceVirginia Tech·DateOct 19, 2001