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Safer metal recycling for the battery industry

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a safer metal recycling method for the battery industry using renewable biomass, reducing the risk of fire and hazardous substance exposure. The new method performs just as well as conventional processes in extracting important metals.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalRSC Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2026

Faster and more energy-efficient: Catalysts boost hydrogen based steel production

Researchers at MPI-SusMat discovered that adding specific metal oxides as catalytic precursors can double the reduction kinetics of hydrogen-based metal production, allowing for reduced energy use. This breakthrough enables lower reduction temperatures, shorter processing times, and reduced energy consumption.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Synthesis·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2026
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.

A biological material that becomes stronger when wet could replace plastics

Researchers have developed a biointegrated material that resists hydration and increases in strength to values above commodity plastics when wet. The process does not alter the biological nature of chitosan, enabling seamless reintegration into natural ecological cycles.

SourceInstitute for Bioengineering of Catalonia (IBEC)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2026

Study: New class of catalysts could dramatically change playing field in nickel catalysis

Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have developed a new method for synthesizing thermally stable Ni(I) compounds that opens new avenues for building complex molecules. The new catalysts exhibit rapid ligand substitution, exceptional performance in key reactions, and chemo-selectivity.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Catalysis·DateFeb 2, 2026

Aluminum prevents 'rapid aging' in high-energy batteries

Researchers from POSTECH found that aluminum reduces internal structural distortion in cathodes, preventing oxygen holes and shortening battery life. By adding a small amount of aluminum, the team extends battery lifespan while improving energy density.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateDec 5, 2025
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.

Climate-friendly metals from deep-sea ores

Researchers at Max Planck Institute present efficient and low-CO2 process to extract copper, nickel, and cobalt from deep-sea ore nodules. The method generates significantly less waste and deforestation compared to traditional land-based mining.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 4, 2025

Hidden catalysis: Abrasion transforms common chemistry equipment into reagents

A study from OIST shows that abrasion from common additives can lead to efficient reactions under mechanochemical conditions. Abrasive materials like tungsten carbide or diamond powder activate catalysts and drive coupling reactions. This finding changes the way researchers think about mechanochemical catalysts.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2025

New molten salt method gives old lithium batteries a second life

Researchers have developed a new molten salt technique that restores the structure and performance of used high-nickel cathode materials, allowing for more efficient battery recycling. The approach, published in Energy & Environment Nexus, regenerates the material itself so it can be reused in new batteries.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Recent progress in nickelate superconductors

Researchers achieved first superconductivity in nickel-based superconductors in 2019, with critical temperatures reaching up to 80 K in bilayer La₃Ni₂O₇ under high pressure. Recent breakthroughs enable superconductivity at ambient pressure via strain engineering.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeLiterature review·DateOct 29, 2025

Using AI to optimize hydrogen fuel production and reduce environmental impact: Worcester Polytechnic Institute research published in Nature Chemical Engineering

A team of researchers from Worcester Polytechnic Institute has developed a new approach to producing hydrogen using plasma technology and metal alloys. The method reduces energy consumption and carbon emissions compared to traditional methods, making it more environmentally friendly and potentially affordable.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalNature Chemical Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 6, 2025

Beneath 300 kilometers: Natural evidence for nickel-rich alloys in the mantle

Researchers confirm nickel-rich metallic alloys in diamonds from South Africa's Voorspoed mine, revealing a 'redox-freezing' reaction between oxidized melts and reduced mantle rock. The study provides new insights into mantle dynamics and the formation of kimberlites, ocean island basalts, and volcanic magmas.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeObservational study·DateSep 22, 2025

Using AI to improve nickel catalysts for converting carbon dioxide into methane

Researchers applied explainable machine learning to design nickel-based catalysts for efficient CO2 methanation. The study identified optimal reaction conditions, including temperature, gas hourly space velocity, BET surface area, and nickel content, to improve conversion rates and selectivity.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateSep 3, 2025
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Nickel catalyst opens door to sustainable, branched hydrocarbon fuels

A new nickel-based catalyst has been developed to produce valuable liquid hydrocarbons from carbon dioxide, a key component in fuels like gasoline and jet fuel. The research shows that the catalyst can selectively promote the production of branched hydrocarbons, which are ideal for high-performance fuels.

SourceInstitute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)·JournalNature Catalysis·DateJul 17, 2025

Metal catalysts can be valuable, even when they aren’t precious

A team from The University of Osaka has developed an efficient non-precious metal catalyst for converting biomass-derived furfural to tetrahydrofurfuryl compounds, achieving high yields under mild conditions.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2025
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.

Green nickel for sustainable electrification

Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Sustainable Materials have developed a carbon-free method to extract nickel from low-grade ores in a single step, reducing CO2 emissions by 84% and increasing energy efficiency. The approach enables the use of low-grade nickel ores, which account for 60% of total nickel reserves.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateApr 30, 2025

Green hydrogen: A cage structured material transforms into a performant catalyst

A new class of materials, clathrates, has been discovered as electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction in green hydrogen production. The Ba₈Ni₆Ge₄₀ material transformed into ultrathin Nickel-sheets under an electric field, increasing catalytic activity and stability.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 17, 2025

Don’t use your battery until it runs out!

A recent study identified a quasi-conversion reaction on the cathode surface during discharging, leading to accelerated battery degradation. High nickel content exacerbates this effect.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateMar 31, 2025
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.

Nickel(0) and boron, together at last in square-planar complexes

Scientists from Osaka University have reported a new class of transition metal complexes featuring direct nickel-boron bonds without additional support. The resulting square-planar geometry allows for efficient catalysis in the synthesis of high-value materials like polymers and pharmaceuticals.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2025

Converting CO2 into fuel – with the help of battery waste

Researchers at TU Wien have developed a process to recover nickel from spent batteries and convert it into a nanocatalyst that reduces CO2 into valuable methane. This innovation has the potential to reduce waste and provide a sustainable fuel source.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalGreen Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2025

How to ensure metallic material strength while conserving nickel resources?

Researchers developed a new stainless-steel alloy that preserves material strength without relying on nickel. By using additive manufacturing and combining austenitic and ferritic stainless steels, the team created bimetallic structures with improved hardness and strength.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateFeb 14, 2025

Engineers discover key barrier to longer-lasting batteries

University of Texas at Dallas researchers have discovered why LiNiO2 batteries break down during charging and are testing a solution to remove the key barrier to widespread use. They developed a theoretical solution that reinforces the material by adding a positively charged ion, creating pillars to strengthen the cathode.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 13, 2025
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

New superconductor with hallmark of unconventional superconductivity discovered

Researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University have discovered a new superconducting material with a 'dome-shaped' phase diagram, typical of unconventional superconductors. This breakthrough could lead to the development of high-temperature superconducting materials for wider deployment in society.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalJournal of Alloys and Compounds·DateJan 18, 2025

A greener, cleaner way to extract cobalt from ‘junk’ materials

A new method developed by Penn researchers uses a chemical-separation technique to extract cobalt from 'junk' materials, increasing the capacity for purified cobalt production with minimal environmental harm. The process avoids harsh chemicals and generates lower costs than traditional methods.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalChem·DateDec 10, 2024
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Hydrogen: Breakthrough in alkaline membrane electrolyzers

Researchers have developed a highly efficient alkaline membrane electrolyser that approaches the performance of established PEM electrolysers. The use of inexpensive nickel compounds replaces costly and rare iridium, leading to significant advancements in understanding fundamental catalysis mechanisms.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 28, 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.

Could lead overcome reverse current and advance a green hydrogen economy?

A new catalyst with a lead coating enhances the performance of a nickel-based hydrogen evolution reaction catalyst, increasing efficiency and resisting reverse current. This breakthrough could improve the durability of alkaline water electrolysis systems and support a green hydrogen economy.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJul 10, 2024

Hide and seek between atoms. Find the dopant!

The team developed a deep learning AI technique to quantitatively analyze cation mixing using atomic structure images. This approach revealed that introducing metal dopants like aluminum, titanium, and zirconium into the transition metal layer fortified bonds between nickel and oxygen atoms, curbing cation mixing.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateMay 12, 2024

Revolutionizing hydrogen production: Economical and efficient solutions unveiled

Researchers from Pohang University of Science & Technology developed an economical and efficient water electrolysis catalyst using oblique angle deposition method and nickel. The catalyst resulted in a remarkable 55-fold improvement in hydrogen production efficiency compared to traditional thin film structures.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 21, 2024
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.

New study unveils scalable and efficient photoelectrode modules for green hydrogen production

Researchers at UNIST have developed a scalable and efficient photoelectrode module for green hydrogen production, overcoming challenges of efficiency, stability, and scalability. The team's innovative approach achieved unprecedented efficiency, durability, and scalability in producing green hydrogen using solar energy.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Energy·DateFeb 28, 2024

Cobalt-free electrodes achieved with nickel ions

Scientists at Yokohama National University have created a new type of lithium-ion battery using nickel ions, which can be used in electric vehicles without the need for cobalt. The material overcomes key stability issues by suppressing nickel-ion migration and achieving consistent reversibility.

SourceYokohama National University·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·DateFeb 20, 2024

Study shows that Rio Grande Rise was once a giant mineral-rich tropical island near Brazil

Researchers at the University of São Paulo found evidence of a tropical island with rich mineral deposits, including cobalt and nickel, in the South Atlantic Ocean. The team's analysis of seafloor sediment samples suggests the area was once home to vegetation and had volcanic activity between 30-40 million years ago.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 1, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

BESSY II: Local variations in the atomic structure of High-Entropy Alloys

A new study at BESSY II has provided deeper insights into the ordering processes and diffusion phenomena in High-Entropy Alloys. The team analysed samples of a Cantor alloy, revealing local atomic structures using element-specific EXAFS and Reverse Monte Carlo analysis.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNano Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2024

Efficiently moving urea out of polluted water is coming to reality

Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have developed a material to selectively oxidize urea in water, producing hydrogen gas. The material, made of nickel and cobalt atoms with tailored electronic structures, enables the efficient conversion of urea into hydrogen through an electrochemical reaction.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2024

Light it up: reimagining the optical diode effect

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have discovered a magnetoelectric antiferromagnet LiNiPO4 that exhibits large nonreciprocal absorption of light. The material's unique property allows for the switchable optical diode effect, potentially enabling more compact and efficient optical isolators.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2024
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Study on battery recycling shows China is in 1st place

A study by researchers from the University of Münster found that China will be able to meet its demand for primary lithium for electric vehicles through recycling as early as 2059, while Europe and the US will not achieve this until after 2070. Recycling is also expected to ensure China's need for cobalt by 2045 and nickel by 2046.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalResources Conservation and Recycling·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 8, 2023

Researchers reveal new process for making anhydride chemical compounds

Researchers at UNC-Chapel Hill and Eastman have developed a new process for making anhydride chemical compounds using nickel as a catalyst, promising cost savings and sustainability. The new process offers a potential alternative to traditional methods that rely on expensive precious metal catalysts.

SourceUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateNov 30, 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.

Laser-induced hydrothermal growth for electrocatalytic applications

Researchers developed a novel laser-induced hydrothermal reaction method to grow binary metal oxide nanostructures and layered-double hydroxides on nickel foams. This technique improves the production rate by over 19 times while consuming only 27.78% of the total energy required by conventional methods.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateNov 29, 2023

Toward a sustainable EV battery supply chain globally

The global EV battery industry is projected to exceed 600 MtCO2eq in emissions by 2050, mainly due to energy-intensive mining and refining processes. Shifting to less CO2-intensive battery chemistries like LFP could reduce emissions by 20%.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateNov 28, 2023

Increasing high-temperature strength of materials through collaborative efforts of AI and materials researchers

A team of researchers used AI to optimize thermal aging schedules for nickel-aluminum alloys, resulting in stronger materials at high temperatures. By analyzing unconventional heat treatment patterns, the team discovered a two-step schedule that outperformed conventional methods.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2023

‘Teenage galaxies’ are unusually hot, glowing with unexpected elements

Researchers analyzed the chemistry of distant teenage galaxies, finding they are unusually hot and contain unexpected elements like nickel. The study provides insight into galaxy formation and evolution, shedding light on why some galaxies appear 'red and dead' while others continue to form stars.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 20, 2023

A potentially cheaper and 'cooler' way of hydrogen transport

Kyushu University researchers have developed a new material that can store hydrogen energy for up to three months at room temperature, using an inexpensive element like nickel. This innovation could potentially reduce the cost of future compounds and contribute to the transition to alternative energy sources.

SourceKyushu University·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2023
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.

Pivotal breakthrough in adapting perovskite solar cells for renewable energy at City University of Hong Kong; published in Science

The CityU innovation has dramatically enhanced the thermal robustness of perovskite solar cells, retaining over 90% of efficiency even under high temperatures. This breakthrough could significantly broaden the utilisation of these cells and contribute substantially to combating the global climate crisis.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2023

New recipe for efficient, environmentally friendly battery recycling

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new method for recycling metals from spent electric car batteries using oxalic acid. The method allows for the recovery of 100% of aluminum and 98% of lithium, minimizing waste and utilizing an environmentally friendly ingredient.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalSeparation and Purification Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 2023

It's easier to get valuable metals from battery waste if you ‘flash’ it

Researchers at Rice University have developed a high-yield, low-cost method for reclaiming metals directly from mixed battery waste. The new process uses the 'flash' technique to separate critical metals, reducing energy and acid consumption by up to 100-fold and lowering carbon dioxide emissions.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Golden future for thermoelectrics

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have discovered a new metallic alloy of nickel and gold that exhibits exceptional thermoelectric properties, enabling high electrical power generation. The alloy outperforms conventional semiconductors in terms of power density and thermoelectric efficiency.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2023