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Transforming carbon dioxide into a new kind of recyclable plastics

Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a catalytic process to transform carbon dioxide into recyclable, high-performance materials. These new materials can replace today's plastics in many situations and feature sought-after characteristics such as high mechanical strength and flexibility. The foundational building blo...

SourceColorado State University·JournalNature·DateJul 29, 2026

Polymers change structure to avert failure and keep elastomers tough

Scientists at The University of Osaka have created a multipath synergistic strategy to toughen elastomers by sequentially activating three energy dissipation pathways. This approach enhances the material's toughness while maintaining its elasticity, making it suitable for various applications such as tires, gloves, and adhesives.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

When light teaches materials to self-organize: Writing nature-like 3D nanowrinkles

Scientists create natural surfaces with 3D nanowrinkles that control light, liquids, and living cells. The method uses laser polarization to guide the material's organization, enabling precise control over wrinkle formation and applications in bio-inspired surfaces and sensors.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJan 5, 2026

Morphing 3D-printed structures from flat to curved, in space

Researchers developed a creative and efficient method to morph 2D structures into curved 3D structures while in space. The process uses a combination of pure resin systems and continuous carbon fiber 3D printing, achieving lower energy consumption and higher stiffness compared to previous methods.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateNov 12, 2025
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.

Hidden flaws in plastics electronics revealed by molecular imaging

A new study uses molecular imaging to uncover structural defects in conjugated polymers formed through aldol condensation, a versatile and environmentally friendly synthesis method. By understanding these defects, researchers can develop more sustainable materials for electronics, computing, and other applications.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2025

Printing uniform, high-strength SiC ceramics at 1100 °C in one step

Researchers developed a new 3D printing method that creates strong, high-quality silicon carbide (SiC) ceramic parts at lower temperatures. The method uses vat-polymerization and adds silica to improve material quality, resulting in comparable strength to ceramics sintered at higher temperatures.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJul 28, 2025
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.

Turning step-growth into chain-growth with click polymerization

Researchers developed a controlled 'living' click polymerization system to achieve well-defined polymers with narrow dispersity, enabling bidirectional synthesis of ABA-type block copolymers. The method leverages copper-catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition and initiators to selectively drive monomer addition in a controlled manner.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 9, 2025

In situ polymerization in COF boosts li‐ion conduction in solid polymer electrolytes for li metal batteries: A new approach to enhance ion transport efficiecyn

A new approach to improve lithium-ion conduction in solid polymer electrolytes is presented through in situ polymerization within a covalent organic framework, boosting the performance of lithium metal batteries. This innovative design enhances ion transport efficiency and paves the way for high-performance lithium metal batteries.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 7, 2025

A small reaction space has a big impact on polymer chemistry

Researchers at The University of Tokyo have developed a 'molecular flask' that modulates chemical reactions, allowing for the creation of specialized polymers in extremely small spaces. This breakthrough technology enables the production of complex materials with various applications, including optoelectronics and medicine.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 24, 2025

Structural color shields: water repellent coatings

Researchers developed a novel coating material that captures the brilliance of structural colors using melanin particles, producing non-iridescent color even when viewed from different angles. The coatings displayed a contact angle of over 160 degrees, monochromatic hues, and a self-cleaning surface.

SourceChiba University·JournalMacromolecular Reaction Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 28, 2025

Polymer editing can upcycle waste into higher-performance plastics

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a method to edit polymers from discarded plastics, generating new macromolecules with more valuable properties. This process utilizes existing building blocks to provide added functionality and value, reducing energy consumption and emissions compared to traditional recycling.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 17, 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.

New chainmail-like material could be the future of armor

A Northwestern University-led research team has developed a 2D mechanically interlocked polymer with exceptional flexibility and strength. The material's unique structure exhibits up to 100 trillion mechanical bonds per square centimeter, making it a promising candidate for high-performance body armor.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2025

Holographic 3D printing has the potential to revolutionize multiple industries, say Concordia researchers

Concordia researchers develop a novel method of 3D printing using acoustic holograms, capable of creating complex objects quickly and at once. This technique, called holographic direct sound printing (HDSP), stores information of multiple images in a single hologram, allowing for the creation of multiple objects simultaneously.

SourceConcordia University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 8, 2024

Cross-polymerization between bio-oil and polyaniline: synergistic effects on pore development in subsequent activation and adsorption of phenol

Cross-polymerization between bio-oil and polyaniline enhances pore development, yielding a material with high specific surface area and hydrophilicity. The resulting nitrogen-doped porous activated carbon shows superior performance in phenol adsorption.

SourceIndustrial Chemistry & Materials·JournalIndustrial Chemistry and Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 30, 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.

Nature-inspired patterns boost polymer toughness

Scientists use frontal polymerization to replicate nature's approach, creating materials with unique patterns that integrate stiff and soft regions. This results in products with remarkable strength and flexibility, making them resilient to high strains without breaking.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalNature·DateSep 18, 2024

Innovative approach for synthesizing common plastics using remote spark discharge

Researchers have successfully synthesized high-purity polystyrene and polymethyl methacrylate using a novel method involving remote spark discharge treatment. This approach uses Tesla coil-generated monomer radicals as polymerization initiators, enabling external spark discharge treatment without a counter electrode.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNext Materials·DateAug 5, 2024

Development of organic semiconductors featuring ultrafast electrons

Scientists at POSTECH create conducting polymers with exceptional electrical conductivity, rivaling graphene's performance. The breakthrough achieves ultrafast electron mobility and long phase coherence length, overcoming a major challenge in organic semiconductors.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalChem·DateApr 18, 2024

New route to recyclable polymers from plants

Researchers have created a method to make fully recyclable polymers from plant cellulose, which can replace some plastics and reduce plastic pollution. The new polymers have various structures that offer different applications, including high-performance materials for optical, electronic, and biomedical uses.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalACS Macro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2024
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.

Electrons screen against conductivity-killer in organic semiconductors

Scientists at University of Utah and University of Massachusetts Amherst uncover the physics behind dopant-polymer interactions that explain inconsistent conductivity issues in organic materials. The discovery reveals that a critical mass of electrons triggers collective screening, allowing rest of electrons to flow unimpeded.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2024

Scientists open door to achieving high-precision 'slippery structural hydrogel'

Researchers introduce trehalose into hydrogels to form hydrogen bond interactions, improving dehydration resistance, lubrication performance, mechanical properties, and manufacturing accuracy. This discovery proposes a new design principle for high-precision manufacturing of hydrogel materials.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJan 15, 2024

Cornell chemists image basic blocks of synthetic polymers

Researchers create CREATS method for imaging polymerization reactions at single-monomer resolution, revealing the sequence of monomers in copolymers. This allows for fine-tuning of material properties, such as stiffness or flexibility, and provides a guiding principle for designing tailored materials.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateNov 9, 2023
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.

Achieving large and uniform particle sizes

A French team of researchers has developed a method to produce stable polystyrene dispersions with unprecedentedly large and uniform particle sizes. The team used light-driven processes, overcoming the previous 300-nanometer ceiling limit of UV and blue-light-based photopolymerization systems.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 25, 2023

Cell-friendly bioprinting at high fidelity enhances its medical applicability

Researchers from Osaka University have developed a bioprinting technique that enables the creation of complex soft tissue structures with high fidelity. The method uses a printing support to facilitate gelation of a bioink, resulting in cell viability and viability for up to two weeks.

SourceOsaka University·JournalACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 16, 2023

Micro/nanoscale 4D printing revolution: Manufacturing high-resolution transformable 3D structures

Researchers introduce a game-changing technology that enables fabrication of high-resolution, transformable 3D structures at the micro/nanoscale using Two-photon polymerization-based (TTP-based) 4D printing. The technology has vast potential for applications in biomedicine, flexible electronics, soft robotics, and aerospace.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateOct 9, 2023

Bio-based waterborne poly(vanillin-butyl acrylate)/mxene coatings for leather with desired warmth retention and antibacterial properties

Researchers developed a bio-based antibacterial agent and aromatic monomer called methacrylated vanillin (MV), imparting antibacterial properties to leather coatings. The addition of MXene nanosheets enhances the coating's thermal stability, air permeability, water vapor permeability, and antibacterial efficacy.

SourceEngineering·JournalEngineering·DateAug 21, 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.

Discovery of novel primitive xeno nucleic acids as alternative genetic polymers

Researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology explore co-polymerization of glycol nucleic acid monomers with dicarboxylic acids to produce branched and linear xeno nucleic acid polymers. These findings suggest that diverse prebiotic organic molecules could have led to population-level differences in abundance of genetic polymers.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalChemical Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023

Impact of cortactin in cancer progression

Researchers discuss cortactin's impact on cancer progression by modulating the Wnt5a/ROR1 signaling pathway. Cortactin expression is found in various cancers, including breast and chronic lymphocytic leukemia, suggesting its potential role in promoting metastasis.

SourceImpact Journals LLC·JournalOncotarget·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 4, 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.

Coral-friendly sunscreen provides better UV protection than existing options

Researchers developed a coral-reef-friendly sunscreen by using polymerization to create large molecules that block UV radiation without penetrating skin or coral. The new filter was found to be more effective at preventing sunburn in mice than existing sunscreens, while also being safe for coral and algae.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2023

The secrets of polydopamine coatings revealed

Researchers at the University of Groningen have discovered the exact structure of polydopamine coatings, which could lead to new applications in surface adhesion and neurodegenerative disease treatment. The study found that these coatings form through auto-oxidation, crosslinking and isomerization processes.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 16, 2023

‘Magic’ solvent creates stronger thin films

A new technique uses reactive vapors to create thin films with enhanced properties, such as mechanical strength, kinetics, and morphology. The synthesis process is gentler on the environment than traditional methods and could lead to improved polymer coatings for microelectronics, advanced batteries, and therapeutics.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Synthesis·DateFeb 14, 2023

Tracing the origin of life

Researchers discover abiotic peptide chain formation from glycine in space conditions, shedding light on the origin of life. The study shows that small clusters of glycine molecules exhibit polymerization upon energy input.

SourceUniversity of Innsbruck·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry A·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 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.

Fiber sensing scientists invent 3D printed fiber microprobe for measuring in vivo biomechanical properties of tissue and even single cell

Researchers at Shenzhen University have developed a compact fiber optical nanomechanical probe (FONP) to measure in vivo biomechanical properties of tissue and even single cells. The high-precision mechanical sensing system enables accurate measurements with spring constants as low as 2.1 nanonewtons.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateFeb 10, 2023

Direct laser writing system for high-resolution, high-efficiency nanofabrication

A new parallel peripheral-photoinhibition lithography system has been developed, enabling the fabrication of subdiffraction-limit features with high efficiency. The system uses two beams to excite and inhibit polymerization, allowing for nonperiodic and complex patterns to be printed simultaneously.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateDec 19, 2022

Baylor Chemistry researchers synthesize new groundbreaking compound

Researchers at Baylor University have synthesized a new, one-step Lewis superacid called tris(ortho-carboranyl)borane (BoCb3), which has applications in the production of common plastics. The compound is more efficient to produce, safer for the environment, and could potentially save billions of dollars in manufacturing costs.

SourceBaylor University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 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.

Novel mix-charged nanofiltration membrane developed for wastewater treatment

Researchers have developed a novel mix-charged nanofiltration membrane for wastewater treatment, demonstrating improved separation selectivity for small organics and inorganic salts. The membrane shows reduced retention of divalent anions like SO42- while increasing retention of glucose.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateNov 29, 2022

Introduction of fluoroethylene carbonate into a poly(1,3-dioxolane)-based polymer electrolyte to stabilize a sodium metal anode

The introduction of fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) into a poly(1,3-dioxolane)-based polymer electrolyte improves the performance of sodium metal batteries. FEC forms a passivation layer that inhibits side reactions between DOL and the Na metal, reducing interfacial resistance and improving battery overall performance.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateNov 1, 2022

Engineers discover new process for synthetic material growth, enabling soft robots that grow like plants

Researchers developed a plant-inspired extrusion process for synthetic material growth, enabling soft robots to create new material and navigate obstacles. This technology has applications in remote areas and biomedical fields, potentially reducing the need for expensive machinery.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2022

Divide and conquer

Researchers from the Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences developed a novel time-resolved NMR method to study complex chemical processes. The method combines time-resolved diffusion NMR and time-resolved nonuniform sampling, allowing for detailed studies with high resolution and real-time monitoring.

SourceInstitute of Physical Chemistry of the Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 21, 2022
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.

Overcoming a major manufacturing constraint

Researchers characterize material properties of IP-Q using Raman spectroscopy and nanoindentation, revealing elastic parameters and their effects on acoustic behavior. The study optimizes elastic parameters for TPP-fabricated structures, benefiting applications in life science, mobility, and industry.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateAug 12, 2022

Towards higher nanopatterning resolution with molecules that fill nanogaps better

A research group from Tokyo University of Science has discovered molecular features that govern the filling process at nanoscales, enabling finer resolutions in ultraviolet nanoimprint lithography. The findings provide valuable insights for guiding the selection and design of optimized resists for sub-10 nm resolution.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalNanomaterials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2022

Combining techniques to create more environmentally friendly, heat resistant, and transparent plastics

Researchers at Nagoya University have developed a new technique for creating polymers with controlled molecular weight and high optical activity. The discovery uses a combination of living cationic polymerization and asymmetric cationic polymerization, resulting in optically active polymers with unique properties.

SourceNagoya University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 8, 2022

NYU Abu Dhabi researchers develop novel 3D atomic force microscopy probes

Researchers have developed novel 3D atomic force microscopy (AFM) probes with improved designs, materials, and production processes. The new probes enable high-resolution, high-speed AFM imaging under air and liquid environments, opening doors for advanced applications in fields like biomedical sciences.

SourceNew York University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJul 26, 2022
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.

Just add water: A simple method to obtain versatile porous polymers

Scientists from Shibaura Institute of Technology developed a simple method to produce polyethylenimine-based network polymers by dissolving triaziridine compounds in water. The resulting porous polymers exhibit versatile properties, including tailored morphological and mechanical characteristics.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalACS Macro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 11, 2022

A light twist

A researcher at the University of Tsukuba has developed a method for producing electrically conductive polymers with helical configurations, which can convert linearly polarized light into circular polarization. This approach may lead to cheaper and more energy-efficient electronic displays.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalMolecular Crystals and Liquid Crystals·DateJun 16, 2022

Controlled fabrication of multimetallic building blocks for hybrid nanomaterials

A research team from Tokyo University of Science has developed a new method to create copolymers with different metal species, which have potential uses in catalysis and drug discovery. The technique allows for controlling the composition of metal species in the resulting polymer.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalChemical Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 14, 2022

Toward new degradable polymers

Researchers have developed a new degradable polymer material with improved biodegradability, outperforming existing bioplastics like PLA or PCL. The material can degrade by over 70% in a week, making it suitable for applications such as thermosensitive nanoparticles for medicine administration.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 24, 2022

Environmentally-friendly coatings

Researchers from Konstanz University have developed a new class of water-soluble catalysts that allow for the direct manufacturing of polyethylene dispersions in water. This breakthrough enables environmentally-friendly and emission-free production of plastic coatings, reducing energy consumption and pollution.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateApr 21, 2022
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Golden wedding for molecules

Researchers at Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology have discovered a new chemical synthesis method that forms stable benzene rings on a gold surface. This method, called the 'dry' method, avoids toxic byproducts and allows for the observation of molecular reactions in real-time.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalNature Synthesis·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 14, 2022

Study led by Wu Kai and Zhou Xiong published in Science to visualize on-surface ethylene polymerization

Researchers visualize ethylene polymerization on ordered iron carbide surface using in situ technology, revealing molecular insertion mechanism and chain initiation process. The study clarifies the scientific debate regarding chain initiation over Phillips catalysts and provides a method for controlling product chain length distribution.

SourcePeking University·JournalScience·DateMar 10, 2022

New lightweight material is stronger than steel

Researchers at MIT have developed a new material that is stronger than steel and as light as plastic, with potential applications in car parts, cell phones, bridges, and other structures. The material, called polyaramide, self-assembles into sheets and has unique properties, including high elastic modulus and impermeability to gases.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateFeb 2, 2022

Listening to the leaves: Adding bioinspired veins to foamed polymers

A research team at the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology developed a chemical process to mimic trees' vascular systems in foamed polymers, adding structure and enabling directional fluid transport. The team discovered that increasing or decreasing gelation time enables direct control over the foam's cellular structure.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2022

Nanoporous polymers promise advancements in water purification and sensors

Researchers developed new materials with enhanced adsorption capabilities, promising advancements in hydrogen storage, oil spill cleanup, and sensor development. The polymerization mechanism and kinetics were analyzed, revealing a significant impact of solvation on reactivity.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalPolymer Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2021
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.

Nanoscale lattices flow from 3D printer

Rice materials scientists develop a method to print arbitrary 3D shapes, creating micro-scale electronic, mechanical and photonic devices. The process involves two-photon polymerization and doping with rare earth salts for photoluminescent properties.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2021