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Extending cryo-electron microscopy beyond water

Scientists at Tohoku University have developed a new sample-preparation technique called gradient blotting, allowing for the observation of materials in their native liquid environments. This breakthrough extends cryo-electron microscopy beyond water-based systems, enabling the study of materials under realistic processing conditions.

SourceTohoku University·DateJun 15, 2026

Organic solvents enable handedness control in inorganic crystals

Researchers have developed a simple crystallization method that achieves chiral resolution under mild conditions, enabling the production of homochiral inorganic crystals. The study uses organic solvents and an achiral crystalline phase to control the growth environment, resulting in single-handed forms of cesium copper chloride.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalCrystal Growth & Design·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2026

High-frequency molecular vibrations initiate electron movement

A team of scientists observed the earliest steps of ultrafast charge transfer in a complex dye molecule, with high-frequency vibrations playing a central role. The experiments showed that these vibrations initiate charge transport, while processes in the surrounding solvent begin only at a later stage.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeObservational study·DateAug 20, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Chatbot opens computational chemistry to nonexperts

A new web platform, AutoSolvateWeb, developed at Emory University enables chemists of all levels to configure and execute complex quantum mechanical simulations through chatting. The free platform uses cloud infrastructure and automates software processes on the backend.

SourceEmory University·JournalChemical Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 7, 2025
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.

DFG to fund eight new research units

The DFG is investing €30 million in eight new research units tackling pressing issues such as quantum materials, macrophage biology and language convergence. The new units will focus on innovative directions in their respective fields.

SourceDeutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft·DateDec 20, 2024

How non-toxic and efficient solar cells can be produced

Researchers at Linköping University have developed a design principle for producing efficient organic solar cells with environmentally friendly solvents, reducing toxicity and increasing scalability. The study's findings pave the way for commercializing sustainable solar cell technology on a larger scale.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Energy·DateDec 4, 2024

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

Agri waste-based surfactant for industrial synthesis

A team of scientists from Indian Institute of Science developed a surfactant from cashew nut shell liquid to catalyse industrially relevant reactions in water, leading to 80% higher product yields and replacing expensive catalysts. The study uses micellar catalysis to mimic biological systems.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateAug 13, 2024

It takes a cool microscope and antifreeze to really look at ice

Scientists directly observe the precise shape of ice at its interface with liquid for the first time, revealing a flat surface with occasional steps. They also found that the ice is harder than previously estimated, using antifreeze and advanced microscopy.

SourceKobe University·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 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.

Frozen? Let it melt with efficient new deicer friendly to the environment

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University developed a machine learning-based deicer that offers higher performance while minimizing environmental harm. The new mixture of propylene glycol and sodium formate solution shows improved ice penetration capacity, reducing the need for substance use.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 7, 2024

Researchers achieve electrosynthesis via superwetting organic-solid-water interfaces

Chinese scientists developed a new three-phase OSW electrocatalytic system for efficient production of high-purity benzaldehyde, achieving 97% Faradaic efficiency and 91.7% purity without post-purification processes. The system uses clean energy and water resources, simplifying product separation and purification.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2024

Major environmental benefits recycling gold with biodiesel

Chalmers University researchers create a sustainable method for extracting pure gold from scrap using biodiesel and malonamide. This process replaces toxic chemicals and fossil solvents, offering benefits for the metal industry and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalRSC Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2024
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.

Fast folding for synthetic peptides and microproteins

Researchers at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University developed a new method that enables the efficient production of cysteine-rich peptides and microproteins in their naturally folded 3D structure. The approach uses organic solvents to mimic nature's oxidative folding process, resulting in speeds of over 100,000 times faster than aqueous...

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 21, 2024

Solvent sieve method sets new record for perovskite light-emitting diodes

Researchers developed highly efficient and stable perovskite light-emitting diodes using a solvent sieve method, achieving an operating lifetime of over 5.7 years and a record high external quantum efficiency of 29.5%. The study also demonstrated excellent stability in ambient air conditions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

Solving an age-old mystery about crystal formation

University of Houston researcher Peter Vekilov discovers two-step incorporation into crystals, mediated by an intermediate state, solving a 40-year-old riddle. The new paradigm guides the search for solvents and additives to stabilize the intermediate state and slow down unwanted polymorphs.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Scaling up nano for sustainable manufacturing

Researchers have developed a new self-assembling nanosheet that can create functional and sustainable nanomaterials for various applications. The material is recyclable and can extend the shelf life of consumer products, enabling a sustainable manufacturing approach.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023

Separating molecules requires lots of energy. This new, heat-resistant membrane could change that

A University at Buffalo-led research team has created a new, sturdier membrane that can withstand harsh environments associated with industrial separation processes. The membrane, made from an inorganic material called carbon-doped metal oxide, is a potential alternative to energy-intensive processes like distillation and crystallization.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalScience·DateSep 27, 2023

Polystyrene upcycling

A new method called Degradation Upcycling (Deg-Up) recovers aromatic chemicals from polystyrene waste in a two-step process. This approach produces valuable chemicals for the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries, offering a circular plastics economy solution.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2023
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.

Simultaneous synthesis and fixing of covalent organic frameworks

Researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a novel synthesis method for imine-based COFs, eliminating the need for long reaction times, high temperatures, and Lewis acid catalysts. The method uses an electrogenerated acid as a catalyst, enabling direct fixation of COF films onto electrodes.

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

New recipes for better solar fuel production

A team of researchers from China and the UK has developed new ways to optimise the production of solar fuels by creating novel photocatalysts. These photocatalysts, such as titanium dioxide with boron nitride, can absorb more wavelengths of light and produce more hydrogen compared to traditional methods.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalApplied Surface Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2023
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.

New UCF-developed battery could prevent post-hurricane electric vehicle fires

The UCF-developed battery uses saltwater as an electrolyte, eliminating volatile solvents and overcoming limitations of previous aqueous batteries. The novel design allows for fast charging in just three minutes and increased stability, making it a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2023
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.

Enhancing organic solar cells’ green glow

A team of researchers at KAUST has developed a new method to replace toxic chlorinated solvents with plant-derived alternatives in organic solar cell manufacture. The study reveals that terpene-based solvents can be used without affecting the light-capturing performance of the cells, resulting in an 85% lower carbon footprint.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Energy·DateDec 15, 2022

Key to chemical industries’ sustainable future? The world’s first industrial model of a flow photo-on-demand synthesis system

A new flow photo-on-demand synthesis system using chloroform as a precursor has been successfully developed by researchers at Kobe University. The system achieves high conversion rates and can synthesize various chemical products continuously in large quantities, offering a safe, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly alternative to...

SourceKobe University·JournalOrganic Process Research & Development·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2022

Safe, sustainable photo-on-demand synthesis of polypeptide precursors: Promising ‘building blocks’ for new functional materials

A research group at Kobe University has successfully synthesized α-amino acid N-Carboxyanhydrides (NCAs), a crucial precursor for artificial polypeptides, using the photo-on-demand phosgenation method. This new synthesis method eliminates the use of toxic phosgene and is considered safe, inexpensive, and simple.

SourceKobe University·JournalACS Omega·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 27, 2022

Greening hydrocarbon separation and crude oil refining

New polymer-based membranes developed at KAUST enable greener separation of simple to complex hydrocarbon mixtures, reducing energy consumption and CO2 emissions in crude oil refineries. The membranes' stability and selectivity can be tuned by thermal crosslinking, allowing for higher purity components and removal of byproducts.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScience·DateAug 30, 2022
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.

Burning membranes for molecular sieving

Researchers at KAUST have developed a new type of carbon molecular sieve membrane that overcomes drawbacks of existing polymer membranes. The membrane, made from 6FDA-DMN, exhibits high rejection of small molecules and exceptional stability in various organic solvents.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalApplied Materials Today·DateAug 18, 2022

Dissolving the problem: Organic vapor induces dissolution of molecular salts

Researchers from Japan have found that organic vapors can trigger the dissolution of molecular salts in a way similar to water vapor. This phenomenon, known as organic deliquescence, has potential applications for cleaning up indoor pollutants and can be used to remove volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from indoor environments.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalRSC Advances·DateJun 28, 2022

Electrically conductive paints and other polymer alloys now produced easily

Researchers from the University of Tsukuba have synthesized polyaniline in various common solvents, enabling improved production and lower manufacturing costs. The discovery will facilitate versatile processing modes like inkjet printing and advance applications in printed circuit boards and other technologies.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalPolymer-Plastics Technology and Materials·DateJun 16, 2022
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.

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

Hope for inflammatory bowel disease with novel “green” synthesis of drug candidate

Researchers at Okayama University have developed a novel 'green' synthesis technique for the production of NEt-3IB, a promising small-molecule oral drug candidate for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The new method produces large quantities of NEt-3IB with high purity and a total yield of over 30%, using only recoverable organic solve...

SourceOkayama University·JournalChemical and Pharmaceutical Bulletin·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 11, 2022

A novel baker’s yeast-mediated microwave-induced reduction of racemic 3-Keto-2-Azetidinones: Facile entry to optically active hydroxy β-lactam derivatives

A team of researchers developed a novel method for producing optically active hydroxy β-lactam derivatives using baker's yeast and microwave irradiation. The process yielded 3:1 ratio of two hydroxyl compounds in 65% yield, with the resulting compounds showing high optical purity.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Organocatalysis·DateMar 8, 2022

Monte Carlo simulations bring new focus to electron microscopy

A new method using Monte Carlo simulations enables researchers to study radiation-sensitive soft nanomaterials in organic solvents for the first time. The technique allows for the creation of a method to test the suitability of any solvent, providing valuable insights into these dynamic systems.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateFeb 17, 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.

Solvent effect on liquid-phase synthesis of lithium solid electrolytes

The study investigates the effect of solvent on liquid-phase synthesis of lithium solid electrolytes. The research team found that solvents with high dielectric constants enhance reactivity and lead to crystalline Li7P3S11 with high conductivity. Acetonitrile emerges as the best solvent for mass production of sulfide solid electrolytes.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2021

Atropisomeric N-aryl quinazoline-4-thiones with isotopic differences at the ortho position

Researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology synthesized atropisomeric N-aryl quinazoline-4-thiones, showing unprecedented isotopic atropisomerism due to rotational restriction around an N-Ar bond. The findings support the formation of diastereomers and have potential applications in pharmaceuticals.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalOrganic Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 7, 2021

Tiny particles power chemical reactions

Researchers at MIT have discovered a new way of generating electricity using tiny carbon particles that can create a current simply by interacting with liquid surrounding them. This technology allows for electrochemistry without wires, enabling applications such as powering micro- or nanoscale robots and driving chemical reactions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 7, 2021

New material for catholytes and anolytes in organic redox flow batteries

Researchers at Skoltech have designed and synthesized new compounds that can serve as catholytes and anolytes for organic redox flow batteries, offering high cell voltage, solubility, and electrochemical properties. The materials have been tested for scalability and performance in large-scale energy storage applications.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateApr 6, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Mysterious organic scum boosts chemical reaction efficiency, may reduce chemical waste

Researchers found that a previously overlooked phenomenon in chemical reactions can boost efficiency and reduce waste. The discovery, led by University of Illinois researcher David Flaherty, involves the formation of an organic residue that acts as a surface redox mediator, increasing reaction rates and hydrogen peroxide production.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalScience·DateFeb 4, 2021

Molecular pores for thought

Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology created an ultrathin porous membrane using molecular building blocks to separate molecules of different sizes and shapes. The membrane outperformed traditional membranes in filtering organic solvents, with high selectivity and durability.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 6, 2020

Structural colors from cellulose-based polymers

Scientists have discovered a way to control the pitch of biopolymers, leading to the creation of structural colors in liquid marbles. The colors change in response to environmental factors such as heat, pressure, or chemicals, making this technology promising for bio-based sensors and soft photonic elements.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 28, 2020
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 PNA's superpowers for self-assembling nanostructures

A method for self-assembling nanostructures with gamma-modified peptide nucleic acid (γPNA) has been developed by Carnegie Mellon University researchers. The process enables the formation of complex, all-PNA nanostructures in organic solvent solutions, holding promise for nanofabrication and nanosensing.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 12, 2020

Printing complex cellulose-based objects

Scientists successfully printed complex structures containing up to 27% cellulose particles, exhibiting mechanical properties similar to those of natural materials like wood. The developed process enables the creation of customized packaging, cartilage replacements, and potentially even sports car bodies.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMar 25, 2020

Green chemistry of fullerene: Scientists invented an environmentally friendly way to realize organic

Researchers developed a novel approach for preparing thin fullerene films from aqueous solutions, reducing environmental risks and making organic electronics more accessible. The method enabled fabrication of organic field-effect transistors with high charge carrier mobility and gas sensors.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry C·DateFeb 19, 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.

Mechanical force as a new way of starting chemical reactions

Researchers at Hokkaido University have discovered a new way to start chemical reactions using mechanical force, eliminating the need for organic solvents. The method, called mechanoredox reaction, generates highly reactive radicals that undergo bond-forming reactions with high efficiency.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalScience·DateDec 19, 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

Boosting solid state chemical reactions

Hokkaido University researchers developed a new strategy for solid-state palladium-catalysed cross-coupling reactions using mechanochemistry, enabling efficient solvent-free synthesis of organic materials. Adding olefin facilitates a more efficient reaction, increasing conversion rates from less than 30% to 99%.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 10, 2019
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.

Health risks through fumigated containers

Research highlights the dangers of fumigated containers, which can release harmful substances into the air if not handled properly. The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment warns that these risks can be exposed to consumers and retail personnel who come in contact with contaminated products.

SourceBfR Federal Institute for Risk Assessment·DateJan 16, 2019

Scientists suggested an eco-friendly way of obtaining highly active catalysts

Scientists at Sechenov University developed an eco-friendly way to obtain highly active catalysts using supercritical CO2. The new method produced metal-polymeric catalysts with high activity in hydrogenation reactions, offering a safer and cheaper alternative to traditional organic solvents.

SourceSechenov University·JournalThe Journal of Supercritical Fluids·DateOct 8, 2018
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.