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Scientists achieve the first total synthesis of a complex alkaloids isolated from plant

Researchers at Chiba University successfully synthesize bisleuconothine A and bousigonine B using a new organocatalytic reaction, unlocking the efficient production of these complex alkaloids with unique medical potential. The development paves the way for new therapeutics and accelerates research into complex indole alkaloids.

SourceChiba University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2026

Rethinking coupling methods for more sustainable organic synthesis

A comprehensive review article highlights emerging strategies that enable environmentally benign coupling reactions, reducing reliance on rare metals and lowering energy consumption. The hypervalent iodine approach facilitates selective bond formation with high functional group tolerance and broad substrate scope.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalChemical Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateApr 9, 2025

Heterogeneous photocatalyst achieves record-breaking performance for CO2 conversion

A new microwave-assisted synthesis route has improved the performance of a coordination polymer photocatalyst, achieving a record-breaking value for CO2-to-formate conversion with a nearly ten-fold increase in apparent quantum yield. The improvements are attributed to well-crystallized material and surface area increases.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 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.

Fighting microplastics for a cleaner future

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a method to break down condensation polymers in plastics using solvents and liquid organic hydrogen carriers, producing aromatic compounds that can be used as fuels. This breakthrough has potential implications for the sustainability of the chemical industry and reducing global warming.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 11, 2024

A holy grail found for catalytic alkane activation

Hokkaido University researchers have developed a novel method to activate alkanes, making it easier to convert these building blocks into valuable compounds. The new technique utilizes confined chiral Brønsted acids, improving efficiency and selectivity in producing desired products.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 10, 2024

Novel organic photoredox catalysts with enhanced stability and recyclability

A team of researchers from Okayama University developed a novel phenothiazine-based organic photoredox catalyst with enhanced stability and recyclability. The new catalyst, PTHS, features a spiral structure that provides improved stability and can be recycled multiple times without losing catalytic activity.

SourceOkayama University·JournalChemical Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 24, 2024

Building-kit catalyst

A metal-free organic framework catalyst has been developed for the electrocatalytic production of ethylene from carbon dioxide. The catalyst, based on a nitrogen-containing covalent organic framework (COF), demonstrated high selectivity and performance for the production of ethylene.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Computing takes the guesswork out of chemistry

A team of researchers from Osaka University used machine learning to identify a highly effective boron-based catalyst for chemical transformations of amino acids and peptides. The new catalyst generates only water as a coproduct and promotes high-yield reactions with minimal environmental impact. By leveraging computational methods, th...

SourceOsaka University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024

Discovery of organic catalyst could lead to cheaper fuel cells

A team from the University of Virginia has identified an organic molecule that can effectively substitute expensive metal catalysts in fuel-cell technology, potentially leading to cheaper and more sustainable energy solutions. The discovery presents a significant step forward in the search for efficient fuel cells.

SourceUniversity of Virginia College and Graduate School of Arts & Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 15, 2024

Recyclable reagent and sunlight convert carbon monoxide into methanol

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory and University of North Carolina Chapel Hill develop a room-temperature conversion reaction strategy to convert carbon dioxide into methanol. The process employs a recyclable organic reagent and sunlight, producing an easily storable and transportable liquid fuel.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 20, 2024

A new manganese-fluorine catalyst with exceptional oxidizing power

A research team has synthesized a cutting-edge manganese-fluorine catalyst with exceptional oxidizing power, capable of extracting electrons from compounds. The catalyst facilitates efficient electron loss from toxic toluene derivatives, marking a significant breakthrough in catalytic research.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalJACS·DateMar 7, 2024

Earth-abundant iron catalysis enables access to valuable dialkylated compounds

Chemists at NUS have developed a new iron-catalysed reaction to generate two alkyl-alkyl bonds in crowded environments, enabling the creation of valuable dialkylated compounds. The method harnesses an earth-abundant iron catalyst to combine alkenes with sp3-hybridised organohalides and organozinc reagents.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 6, 2024
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Researchers step closer to mimicking nature’s mastery of chemistry

Scientists at the University of California, Davis, have successfully synthesized specific chiral molecules using rearrangements of simple hydrocarbons and complex organic catalysts. This breakthrough enables better harnessing of hydrocarbons for various purposes, including precursors to medicines and materials.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

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

The first organic oscillator that makes catalysis swing

Scientists at the University of Groningen created an oscillating system using simple molecules to achieve periodic catalytic activity. The system enables enhanced chemical selectivity, favoring one reaction over others, and has potential applications in polymer synthesis and drug delivery.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 2023
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.

A better way to create space

Researchers at KAUST have developed a simple technique to create highly porous organic polymers, known as poly(aryl thioether), for applications in photocatalysis and optoelectronics. The material exhibits high surface area and tunable porosity, making it suitable for removing organic micropollutants and toxic mercury ions from water.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 3, 2023

A tailored and rapid approach for ozonation catalyst design

A new study employs artificial neural networks to predict and optimize ozonation catalyst performance based on data from 52 different catalysts. The approach integrates fluorescence spectroscopy to determine optimal impregnation concentrations and times, resulting in improved catalytic performance and removal of total organic carbon.

SourceChinese Society for Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·DateJun 25, 2023

Novel tin-based metal–organic frameworks for reducing carbon dioxide to formate

Researchers have developed a novel tin-based MOF that can selectively reduce CO2 to formate in the presence of visible light, achieving high selectivity and quantum yield. The material, called KGF-10, was found to be efficient, precious-metal-free, and single-component.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2023

Turning vegetable oil industry waste into power: innovative electrode modification improves bio-electrochemical treatment of wastewater

Researchers have developed a novel and cost-effective anode catalyst that can improve and stabilize power generation performance of MFCs treating vegetable oil industry wastewater. The study investigates modification of electrodes to increase bacterial adhesion and efficient electron transfer.

SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalJournal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology·DateMar 13, 2023

It takes two: cooperating catalysts provide new route for utilizing formate salts

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a new method using cooperating catalysts to perform challenging dearomative carboxylation reactions. This process enables the production of α-amino acids, which are potentially useful for drug development, and offers greater freedom in designing and synthesizing molecules with carboxyl ...

SourceHokkaido University·JournalACS Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 2023
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.

Robots and A.I. team up to discover highly selective catalysts

Researchers developed a machine learning model using advanced 2D chemical descriptors to predict highly selective asymmetric catalysts without quantum chemical computations. The model demonstrated high accuracy in predicting catalyst structures and selectivity, outperforming existing methods.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2023

New enzyme could mean better drugs

Rice University scientists identified a new Diels-Alderase enzyme, CtdP, which catalyzes the Diels-Alder reaction with precise stereochemistry control. This discovery could lead to improved pharmaceutical synthesis and development of more effective drugs.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 2023

Simplified process shines light on new catalyst opportunities

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a simple radical-based reaction to create unsymmetric variants of molecular compounds used in transition metal catalysts. This method opens up new avenues for designing catalysts and utilizes abundant ethylene feedstock.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2022
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Tapping into seawater's energetic potential

A KAUST-led team creates selective anode catalysts for stable and efficient hydrogen evolution in seawater splitting. The nanoreactors exhibited high electrocatalytic activity and stability due to their unique structure, isolating the electrolysis from side reactions.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalChem Catalysis·DateOct 30, 2022

Three strikes and acid is out

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new protocol for synthesizing dialkyl ethers using three catalysts that hydroxylate alkenes quickly and cheaply. This method enables the precise control of electrons and protons to convert unactivated alkenes into reactive carbocation equivalents under mild reaction conditions.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2022

Fast and facile synthesis of antibacterial amino acid Schiff base copper complexes

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have developed a fast and facile synthesis method for antibacterial amino acid Schiff base copper complexes using microwave irradiation. The new technique produces high-purity products with promising antimicrobial activity, overcoming the challenge of long synthesis times.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalApplied Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 4, 2022
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Chung-Ang University researchers develop novel heterostructure catalyst for effective hydrogen generation from water splitting

Scientists at Chung-Ang University have created a new catalyst that can efficiently generate hydrogen from water without the need for expensive noble metals. The innovative heterostructured material boosts both the half-reactions, improving its overall performance and paving the way for large-scale industrial applications.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 2022

New eco-friendly synthesis method uses alumina as a recyclable catalyst

Researchers developed a sustainable method of synthesizing diphenylmethanol derivatives using Chinese alumina, reducing waste and costs. The new method recycles alumina by washing it with water and drying between usages, making it an environmentally friendly alternative.

SourceKobe University·JournalChemistryOpen·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 10, 2022

New light-powered catalysts could aid in manufacturing

Researchers at MIT have designed a new type of photoredox catalyst that can be used to coat plastic tubing and perform chemical transformations on reactants as they flow through the tube. This breakthrough could enable the use of light-driven reactions in manufacturing processes, increasing efficiency and reducing waste.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 27, 2022
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.

Chemists’ HAT trick for greener chemical synthesis

Researchers have found a way to perform hydrogen atom transfer reactions with fewer chemicals and less cost, making it more efficient for industrial and academic settings. The new method uses electrochemistry to create cobalt hydride catalysts, reducing the need for expensive oxidants and reductants.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 25, 2022

Broadening the scope of epoxide ring opening reactions with zirconocene

Researchers at Waseda University demonstrate a novel zirconocene-catalyzed epoxide ring-opening reaction under visible light, expanding the reaction scope and regioselectivity. The approach enables accessible synthesis of elusive alcohol products with improved efficiency and environmental sustainability.

SourceWaseda University·JournalChem·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2022

Step toward a circular economy?

Researchers have discovered a zirconium-based metal–organic framework material that catalyzes the degradation of PET into its monomers. This process can be reused to make high-value PET products, enabling the development of a circular economy. The catalyst breaks down PET waste at 260°C with yields up to 98%

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2022
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.

“Spring-loaded” system pops phosphorus into molecular rings

MIT researchers devise a chemical reaction that allows them to synthesize phosphorus-containing rings using a novel spring-loaded molecule. This method enables the creation of useful compounds with potential applications in catalysts and pharmaceuticals.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 21, 2022

Cheap, eco-friendly catalyst opens new possibilities for organic molecules built from pyruvate

Researchers develop an eco-friendly organic catalyst system that improves the production of organic molecules from pyruvate, a key biomolecule in metabolic pathways. The catalyst promotes reactions where pyruvate donates electrons to produce molecules like amino acids.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalOrganic Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2022

Biotechnology: Enzymes in a cage

Scientists from Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have successfully embedded enzymes in metal-organic frameworks to enhance their stability. This innovation enables the use of these enzymes in both aqueous and organic solvents, leading to improved productivity and stability in continuous reactors.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 14, 2022

A ‘greener’ way to clean wastewater treatment filters

Scientists have created a 'greener' way to clean wastewater treatment filters by using glucose-based nanoparticles, which effectively remove contaminants without destroying the membrane. The new system is more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than traditional methods.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 2, 2022
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.

Guidance from Hungarian chemists shapes the catalysts of the future

Researchers from Eötvös Loránd University have created a more efficient method for producing catalysts, which can speed up chemical transformations and reduce environmental impact. This breakthrough could lead to faster drug development and improved pesticide production.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalNature Catalysis·DateFeb 24, 2022

Synthetic biology moves into the realm of the unnatural

Researchers at UC Berkeley engineered bacteria to produce an unnatural molecule through a combination of synthetic chemistry and biology. This breakthrough enables the creation of previously impossible chemicals, paving the way for sustainable materials and innovative products.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2021
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.

Porous crystal guides reaction to transform CO2

KAUST researchers have developed a method to produce carbon monoxide from carbon dioxide using a porous crystal and silver catalyst. The new approach improved the selectivity of CO production by controlling the binding mode of activated carbon monoxide, resulting in a 94% efficient reaction.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 4, 2021

New catalytic approach to accessing key intermediate carbocation

Researchers developed a novel multifaceted catalyst to access transient carbocation intermediates, achieving regiocontrolled elimination reactions. The new catalyst produces ring-shaped molecules highly sought after in synthetic, organic, and pharmaceutical chemistry.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Catalysis·DateDec 21, 2020
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.

Well oriented

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed new palladium catalysts for polymerization, enabling the efficient synthesis of isotactic polar polypropylene (iPPP) with high isotacticity. The discovery opens up new possibilities for creating specialty plastics with improved wettability or enhanced degradability.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 30, 2020

An enhanced ruthenium-based catalyst for primary amine synthesis

Tokyo Tech researchers have developed a heterogeneous ruthenium-based catalyst capable of driving direct amination of alcohols to produce primary amines without hydrogen gas. The system achieved higher yields and showed potential for reuse, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalChemical Science·DateSep 25, 2020
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.

Support drives fate of protected gold nanoclusters as catalysts

Researchers at the University of Jyväskylä have discovered that the choice of a support material for gold nanocluster catalysts can drastically affect their structure. On certain supports, clusters disintegrate completely, while on others, the protective organic layer peels away, leaving behind intact metallic nanoclusters.

SourceUniversity of Jyväskylä - Jyväskylän yliopisto·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateJun 16, 2020

Formate dehydrogenase reduces carbon dioxide to formic acid

Scientists have developed a catalyst that directly converts carbon dioxide into formic acid using sunlight. The discovery marks a significant step towards creating an artificial photosynthesis system that efficiently converts CO2 into organic molecules.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalNew Journal of Chemistry·DateMay 18, 2020
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.

Catalyst enables reactions with the help of green light

Chemists have developed a titanium catalyst that makes light usable for selective chemical reactions, producing highly selective products that can be used for antiviral drugs or luminescent dyes. The new catalyst uses green light to trigger reactions without destroying organic compounds.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateApr 20, 2020

Catalytic protocells get zingy

Researchers have developed artificial cells capable of decomposing hydrogen peroxide and generating oxygen, as well as implementing a rudimentary chemical signalling pathway between the cells. The new protocells use a combination of synthetic and biological catalysts to create multi-functional activity.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 2020

Catalyst switching means four become one

Scientists at KAUST have successfully combined four polymers to form a single substance using a novel approach called catalyst switching. This breakthrough could lead to the development of materials with enhanced properties, such as improved energy storage and tissue engineering applications.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 7, 2019

A metal-free, sustainable approach to CO2 reduction

Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology have created an organic catalyst that can convert carbon dioxide into industrially useful formate products. The catalyst, called tetrabutylammonium formate, achieved 99% selectivity and produced the desired product with a 98% yield.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateJun 13, 2019
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Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.