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Towards targeted catalyst optimization: Identifying rate-limiting steps in photocatalysis

Researchers introduce Onset Intensity for Temperature Dependence (OITD) to identify rate-limiting steps in photocatalytic reactions. The study reveals distinct rate-limiting behaviors for different materials, highlighting the importance of surface accessibility in optimizing photocatalytic material design.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMay 12, 2025

Sustainable method produces high-purity material for use in green hydrogen production

Researchers developed a simple, economical and environmentally friendly purification method for mullite-type bismuth ferrite, improving its efficiency in producing green hydrogen. The process uses light and glycerol to eliminate unwanted compounds, resulting in high-purity material suitable for photoelectrochemical reactions.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalElectrochimica Acta·DateMay 12, 2025

Harnessing photocatalysis: Hydrogen generation and organic synthesis explored through a new database

A new database has been created to summarize progress in selective dehydrogenation of organic compounds through photocatalysis, enabling the accurate ranking of photocatalytic systems. The database contains 236 entries and provides insights into future directions for the field, including identifying promising photocatalysts and reactions.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateApr 14, 2025
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.

Researchers track photogenerated charge transfer in electrolyte

A recent study from Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics measures surface charges in liquid environments, revealing an additional driving force that pulls photogenerated electrons to the surface. The researchers also found that local surface potential varies with pH and identified an optimal pH range for efficient charge transfer.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 9, 2025

Rare earth element-enhanced TiO2 achieves high-efficiency photocatalytic overall water splitting

Researchers have developed a novel semiconductor material that significantly improves the efficiency of photocatalytic water splitting by eliminating charge recombination and facilitating efficient charge separation. The Sc-doped TiO2 semiconductor achieves a record-breaking quantum yield of 30.3% and a solar-to-hydrogen efficiency of ...

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 8, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

3D nanotech blankets offer new path to clean drinking water

Researchers have developed nanomats that can absorb light energy to break down harmful pollutants in air and water. These lightweight blankets can be reused multiple times and are environmentally friendly, offering a promising solution for clean drinking water production.

SourceOhio State University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2025

Professor Kazunari Domen: Groundbreaking contributions to photocatalytic water splitting

Professor Kazunari Domen's research develops novel materials and techniques for efficient solar energy harvesting and scalable hydrogen production. His work enables the successful development of large-scale solar-driven hydrogen production units, paving the way for a clean energy future.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateFeb 19, 2025
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.

Breaking barriers in thioxanthone synthesis: a double aryne insertion strategy

A novel double aryne insertion strategy has simplified the production of complex thioxanthones, a type of organic compound with various industrial and medical applications. The new method enables efficient synthesis of diverse thioxanthone derivatives, including functional molecules and photocatalysts.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalOrganic Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 3, 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
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Chemistry paper discusses new approach to breakdown PFAS, forever chemicals

Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a new method to break down PFAS, a group of human-made 'forever' chemicals. The system uses an LED light-based photocatalytic approach that can be used at room temperature, offering a more sustainable and efficient solution than traditional chemical manufacturing processes.

SourceColorado State University·JournalNature·DateNov 20, 2024

Improving energy production by boosting singlet fission process

Researchers from Kyushu University successfully promoted singlet fission by introducing chirality into chromophores, achieving high SF efficiency in aqueous nanoparticles. This breakthrough enables applications in energy science, quantum materials, and photocatalysis.

SourceKyushu University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2024

Enhanced pollutant photodegradation activity of graphitic carbon nitride on via bismuth oxyhalide graphene hybridization and the mechanism study

Researchers have developed a novel photocatalyst by combining g-C3N4 with Bi4O5Br2 and graphene, resulting in efficient degradation of pollutants. The CN/BOB-16 heterostructure exhibited superior performance, surpassing existing benchmarks, and confirmed the key role of Z-type heterojunctions in generating active species.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 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.

New bacteria-based therapy shows promise for fighting cancer

Researchers at Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have developed a novel method to culture antitumor bacteria using porous scaffolds, enhancing their anticancer properties and improving safety in animal testing. The approach resulted in improved survival rates in mice with breast cancer, including drug-resistant cases.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateOct 15, 2024

KAIST changes the paradigm of drug discovery with world's first atomic editing​

Researchers at KAIST successfully developed single-atom editing technology that maximizes drug efficacy by converting oxygen atoms into nitrogen atoms in furan compounds. This breakthrough technology enables selective editing of complex natural products or pharmaceuticals, opening new doors for building libraries of drug candidates.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalScience·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 11, 2024

A novel method to produce hydrogen using facet-selective, 1nm cocatalysts

Researchers from Tohoku University developed a novel method to produce hydrogen using ultrafine Rh-Cr mixed-oxide cocatalysts with facet-selective loading. This approach achieved 2.6 times higher water-splitting photocatalytic activity, paving the way for a more abundant, green energy source.

SourceTohoku University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateOct 7, 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.

New photocatalyst achieves superior oxidative methane coupling

A novel catalyst Au/BiOx-TiO2 enhances oxidative methane coupling by activating C-H bonds and preventing overoxidation, yielding 97% selectivity for C2+ products. The photocatalyst demonstrates stable performance up to 50 hours and outperforms previous catalysts.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 13, 2024
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.

Superior light-to-chemical energy conversion with Coulombic dyads

Scientists at Johannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz create a new approach to prepare highly efficient dyad photocatalysts through electrostatic interactions, outperforming established catalysts. The novel method enables the use of inexpensive additives to improve performance and durability.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 11, 2024

Direct operando identification of reactive electron species driving photocatalytic hydrogen evolution on metal-loaded oxides

Researchers successfully observe and identify the reactive electron species for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution on metal-loaded oxides, shifting the paradigm on the traditionally believed role of metal cocatalysts. The electrons shallowly trapped in the in-gap states contribute to enhancing the hydrogen evolution rate.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 29, 2024

Enhancement of H2O2 generation rate in porphyrin photocatalysts via crystal facets regulation to create strong internal electric field

Researchers discovered that regulating porphyrin crystal facets can enhance the production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in photocatalysts. The study found that exposing certain crystal surfaces created a strong internal electric field, which increased H2O2 generation rates.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateAug 13, 2024

New technology uses light to engrave erasable 3D images

Researchers at Dartmouth College developed a technique using light to imprint 2D and 3D images inside any polymer containing a photosensitive chemical additive. The technology enables the creation of erasable 3D displays with high resolution, applicable in surgeries, architectural designs, education, and art.

SourceDartmouth College·JournalChem·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2024
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.

Doping photocatalyst for water splitting

Researchers have developed doping strategies to boost photocatalytic activity in water splitting, achieving high quantum yields and efficiencies. By introducing defects and controlling ion release, novel materials are being designed for efficient energy conversion.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateJun 28, 2024

New material puts eco-friendly methanol conversion within reach

Griffith University researchers have developed a novel eco-friendly quantum material that converts methanol into ethylene glycol efficiently under mild conditions. This process utilizes solar-driven photocatalysis, minimizing waste and maximizing renewable energy use.

SourceGriffith University·JournalSmall·DateJun 16, 2024

Reduction of esters by a novel photocatalyst

Researchers developed a novel photocatalyst called N-BAP to reduce esters using sustainable light energy. The catalyst initiates a quadruple electron transfer process, enabling the reduction of esters to form alcohols without using metal reductants.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 15, 2024

Visible light-induced photocatalysis–self-Fenton degradation of P-Clphoh over graphitic carbon nitride by a polyethylenimine bifunctional catalyst

A novel bifunctional catalyst, Fe-PEI-CN, was synthesized to degrade p-chlorophenol through photocatalysis and Fenton reaction. The catalyst exhibited high photocatalytic activity due to enhanced light absorption and reduced electron-hole recombination.

SourceBeijing Zhongke Journal Publising Co. Ltd.·JournalTransactions of Tianjin University·DateMay 29, 2024
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.

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

Next-generation sustainable electronics are doped with air

Researchers at Linköping University developed a new method to dope organic semiconductors using air as a dopant, enhancing conductivity and modifying semiconductor properties. The process involves dipping the material in a salt solution and illuminating it with light, resulting in a p-doped conductive plastic.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature·DateMay 15, 2024

New approach in the synthesis of complex natural substances

Researchers at University of Basel have developed a new method to synthesize complex natural substances like terpenes, which can be used as the basis for new medications. The approach allows for controlled molecular structure and targeted changes to improve properties, paving the way for the development of new therapeutic agents.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 2, 2024

Silver-based micromotors that eliminate bacteria moving freely in aqueous media

Researchers have developed microscopic crystals that activate in the presence of light, releasing silver ions with antimicrobial activity. These silver-based micromotors move autonomously through photocatalysis, killing bacteria and providing a promising tool for environmental recovery.

SourceInstitute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 17, 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.

Researchers at CiQUS synthesize new compounds within living cells using light

Scientists at CiQUS integrate non-native photosensitizers into mammalian cells to induce artificial chemical reactions. This breakthrough showcases the feasibility of leveraging light to fabricate functional molecular products.

SourceCenter for Research in Biological Chemistry and Molecular Materials (CiQUS)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 2, 2024

DGIST develops high-efficiency photocatalyst for converting carbon dioxide into environmentally friendly energy using sunlight

A new photocatalyst developed by DGIST's In Su-il research team converts carbon dioxide into useful fuel more efficiently than existing TiO2 catalysts. The technology has the potential to be applied to Carbon Capture and Utilization (CCU) technology, offering a promising solution to reduce global warming.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateMar 28, 2024

Joint research team of DGIST-Sogang Univ. has developed a high-efficiency catalyst for converting carbon dioxide, the main cause of global warming, into ethylene using “vitamin C”

Researchers developed a high-efficiency catalyst that converts carbon dioxide into ethylene using vitamin C. The catalyst promotes the formation of essential intermediate product carbon monoxide at high current density, overcoming existing electrochemical catalyst limitations.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 2024
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.

A self-cleaning wall paint

Researchers developed a self-cleaning wall paint using waste-valorized titanium oxide nanoparticles, which can bind and break down pollutants, and then degrade them when exposed to sunlight. The paint combines several advantages, including air pollutant removal, longer durability, and reduced production costs.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalACS Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2024

Research lights up process for turning CO2 into sustainable fuel

A team of researchers has successfully transformed CO2 into methanol using sunlight and single atoms of copper deposited on a light-activated material. The new process could create highly selective and tuneable catalysts where the desired product can be dialled up by controlling the catalyst at the nanoscale.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalSustainable Energy & Fuels·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 2024

Aluminum nanoparticles make tunable green catalysts

Rice University researchers have developed a transformative approach to harnessing the catalytic power of aluminum nanoparticles by annealing them in various gas atmospheres at high temperatures. This allows for modifying the structure of the oxide layer, making the nanoparticles versatile tools for different applications.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 5, 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.

HKU chemists pave the way for sustainable organic synthesis with innovative heterogeneous copper photocatalysis, enabling efficient production of diverse bioactive compounds

HKU chemists have developed a novel heterogeneous copper photocatalyst that enables the efficient formation of cyclobutane rings, a crucial structural element in pharmaceuticals and biologically active compounds. The new catalyst exhibits high stability and recyclability, making it more economically and environmentally sustainable.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Molecular manganese complex as superphotooxidant

Scientists have created a new molecular system based on manganese that can oxidize various organic substrates and emit NIR-II light after excitation. The complex has two different photoactive states, one of which is extremely oxidizing and exists only briefly, while the other is moderately oxidizing and longer-lived.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Chemistry·DateFeb 9, 2024
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 develop new approach to inserting single carbon atoms

Researchers have developed a precise and efficient tool using 'single atom skeletal editing' to insert single carbon atoms into cyclic compounds, enabling ring size adjustment from five to six-membered rings. This approach opens up the way for designing and modifying complex molecular structures with potential industrial applications i...

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 9, 2024
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.

Polyethylene waste could be a thing of the past

A team of experts has developed a way to convert polyethylene waste into ethylene and propionic acid through atomically dispersed metal catalysts. This method uses renewable solar energy to produce valuable chemicals with high selectivity, alleviating the need for complex separation processes.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2023

Syngas photocatalysis made easy

Researchers have developed a novel photocatalyst system that enables the production of syngas from methane steam reforming under atmospheric pressure. The system harnesses sunlight to split methane and water into hydrogen and carbon monoxide, forming syngas.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateNov 21, 2023

Progress in wastewater treatment via organic supramolecular photocatalysts under sunlight

Researchers developed new supramolecular and polymeric organic photocatalytic systems to enhance light utilization efficiency and mineralization under solar light. The new system combines in situ H2O2 generation with in situ Fenton reaction, achieving high-flux mineralization under visible light without additional oxidants.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChinese Journal of Catalysis·DateNov 20, 2023

Fluorine catch-and-attach process could boost drug efficiency

Researchers have created a reliable and efficient method to add fluorine to molecules, increasing pharmaceutical drug efficiency. The iron and sulfur-based reaction enables the release of fluorine from carboxylic acids and its incorporation into alkenes, common building blocks for drugs.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateNov 13, 2023

BESSY II: Neutralizing electronic inhomogeneity in cleaved bulk MoS₂

The study reveals sizeable variations and instabilities in electron energies for freshly cleaved MoS2 surfaces, but also shows that atomic hydrogen treatment can effectively neutralize these effects. The findings have potential applications in electronics, photonics, sensors, and catalysis.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2023
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.