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A new twist on rechargeable battery performance

Scientists discovered that solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer behaves like a semiconductor, causing electron leakage and leading to inferior battery performance. Minimizing organic components in SEI enables longer-lasting batteries.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

New ionic materials boost hydrogen fuel cell efficiency!

A team of researchers at UNIST has developed solid electrolyte materials utilizing metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to improve the efficiency of hydrogen fuel cells. The new materials demonstrate high hydrogen ion conductivity and durability, holding promise for advancing sustainable energy solutions.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateSep 11, 2023

A solid battery electrolyte with high performance

A new solid-state electrolyte has been designed with a three-dimensional mesh structure, achieving high ionic conductivity and fast lithium ion migration numbers. This material could be a good choice for next-generation all-solid-state lithium-based batteries with high energy density.

SourcePNAS Nexus·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateSep 5, 2023

New oxychloride solid-state electrolyte for lithium batteries shows good performance with ultra-low cost

Researchers developed a new solid-state electrolyte named lithium zirconium oxychloride (LZCO) from affordable compounds, achieving state-of-the-art performance at low cost. LZCO boasts high room-temperature ionic conductivity and exceptional compressibility, comparable to advanced sulfide and chloride solid-state electrolytes.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 13, 2023

New design rule for high-entropy superionic solid-state conductors

Researchers from Tokyo Tech have developed a new strategy to produce solid electrolytes with enhanced lithium-ion conductivity, preserving their superionic conduction pathways. The proposed design rule enables the synthesis of high-entropy active materials for millimeter-thick battery electrodes.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 6, 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.

An ingredient in toothpaste may make electric cars go farther

Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory discovered a new fluoride electrolyte that can protect lithium metal batteries against performance decline. The electrolyte maintains a robust protective layer on the anode surface for hundreds of cycles, enabling the battery to last longer.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 28, 2023

Turning up the heat

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory discovered a method to press solid electrolytes, eliminating air pockets that block ion flow and increasing conductivity by nearly 1,000 times. This breakthrough enables unprecedented control over internal structure, paving the way for industrial-scale processing and more reliable batteries.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateJun 6, 2023

Flexing crystalline structures provide path to a solid energy future

Researchers at Duke University have discovered a class of compounds called argyrodites that could lead to the development of safer and more efficient solid-state batteries. The materials' unique crystalline structures allow for fast ion conduction, making them promising candidates for energy storage applications.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 22, 2023

New priming method improves battery life, efficiency

Researchers at Rice University developed a new priming method to optimize prelithiation in silicon anodes, improving battery life cycles by up to 44% and energy density. The method uses stabilized lithium metal particles with surfactants, enabling more stable SEI layer formation and reduced lithium depletion.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 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.

Simple, environmentally friendly coating can improve battery performance

A new study reveals how ferroelectric coatings improve all-solid-state lithium batteries by reducing space charge layers and enhancing lithium transportation. The coatings made from guanidinium perchlorate increase battery capacities to near-liquid lithium-ion levels.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateApr 6, 2023

New 'smart layer' could enhance durability and efficiency of solid-state batteries

Researchers developed a new technique to make solid-state electrolytes safer and more efficient for solid-state batteries, addressing the dendrite growth problem. The new approach creates a barrier layer that slows down dendrite growth and promotes their quick elimination, making the battery safer and more reliable.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 2023

Bilayer PET/PVDF substrate-reinforced solid polymer electrolyte improves solid-state lithium metal battery performance

A bilayer, nonwoven PET microfiber/polyvinylidene fluoride nanofiber membrane acts as a separator for LIB systems and prevents short circuits. The substrate significantly improves the mechanical and thermal properties of solid polymer electrolytes, enabling cells to operate over 2000 hours.

SourceShinshu University·JournalJournal of Power Sources·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 2023
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SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Stalactites and stalagmites in the battery?

Lithium dendrites grow in solid-state batteries after charging and discharging cycles, leading to internal short circuits. Researchers have investigated the starting point of this process using microscopy methods, finding that grain boundaries play a crucial role.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Polymer Research·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 17, 2023

Researchers design new route for all-solid-state li-based batteries

A team of researchers has proposed a new technical route for all-solid-state lithium-based batteries (ASSLBs), overcoming limitations with highly compressible and conductive cathode material. This breakthrough could lead to safer and more energy-dense batteries.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2023
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.

On the road to better solid-state batteries

A Berkeley Lab-led team has designed a new type of solid electrolyte consisting of a mix of various metal elements, resulting in a more conductive and less dependent material. The new design could advance solid-state batteries with high energy density and superior safety, potentially overcoming long-standing challenges.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateFeb 23, 2023

New study takes close look at energy storage

Researchers analyze current state of solid-state battery technology, identifying key challenges such as developing solid electrolytes and anode materials. The study concludes that new approaches in material research are necessary to overcome these hurdles and achieve commercialization.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Energy·TypeSystematic review·DateFeb 23, 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.

New sodium, aluminum battery aims to integrate renewables for grid resiliency

Researchers developed a new molten salt battery design using sodium and aluminum that can charge and discharge faster, operate at lower temperatures, and maintain excellent energy storage capacity. The battery's specific energy density could reach up to 100 Wh/kg, making it a promising solution for 10-plus hours of energy storage.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2023

Illinois Tech assistant professor publishes paper in Science on novel chemistry behind ultra-high power density batteries

Assistant Professor Mohammad Asadi has published a paper in Science describing the chemistry behind his novel lithium-air battery design, which could store one kilowatt-hour per kilogram or higher. This breakthrough technology has the potential to revolutionize heavy-duty vehicles such as airplanes, trains, and submarines.

SourceIllinois Institute of Technology·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2023

Elucidation of electrolyte decomposition behavior in all-solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology elucidated the decomposition behavior of electrolytes in cathode composites of all-solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries. The sulfide solid electrolytes convert to thiophosphates with long-chain cross-linked sulfur during charging and discharging cycles, governing battery performance.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalChemistry of Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2023
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.

Stanford scientists illuminate barrier to next-generation battery that charges very quickly

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new understanding of how nanoscale defects and mechanical stress cause solid electrolytes to fail. By studying over 60 experiments, they found that ceramics often contain tiny cracks on their surface, which can lead to short circuits during fast charging. The discovery could pave the ...

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

Solids that are also liquids: Elastic tensors of superionic materials

A new approach recovers the elastic tensors and moduli of superionic materials through first-principles molecular dynamics simulations. This resolves a significant overestimation issue with static methods, providing accurate reference results for three benchmark materials.

SourceNational Centre of Competence in Research (NCCR) MARVEL·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateJan 30, 2023

Development of an ionic device capable of brain-like information processing

Researchers recreated the brain's edge-of-chaos state to develop an AI device with high information processing performance. The device operates similarly to a neural network, producing electrical responses with spike and relaxation patterns similar to those of synaptic responses in the brain.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2023

Designing better battery electrolytes

Scientists are rethinking electrolyte design for future battery generations, considering factors like interphases and solid-state electrolytes. They're using AI and automated laboratories to identify optimal electrolyte characteristics and reduce human error.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateDec 19, 2022
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.

Scientists develop electrode material that preserves its volume, making it ideal for solid-state EV batteries

Scientists have developed a positive electrode material that maintains its volume during repeated charge/discharge cycles, ideal for solid-state EV batteries. This breakthrough offers significant improvements in durability and charging speed, potentially reducing battery costs and enabling faster charging times.

SourceYokohama National University·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 12, 2022

Flameproofing lithium-ion batteries with salt

Researchers have created a non-flammable electrolyte for lithium-ion batteries by increasing the amount of salt in a polymer-based solution. This 'SAFE' electrolyte proves to be stable at high temperatures, allowing batteries to function safely and efficiently. The development could lead to improved performance, reduced space occupied ...

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2022

Engineers solve a mystery on the path to smaller, lighter batteries

Researchers at MIT discovered that mechanical stresses can prevent dendrites from forming in solid-state lithium batteries. The team developed a way to apply controlled pressure to divert the growth of dendrites, making lightweight batteries safer and more efficient.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJoule·DateNov 18, 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

Novel method helps quantify reversibility and irreversibility of practical li metal batteries

A research group has developed an innovative methodology to quantify the electrochemical reversibility of a lithium metal anode in practical lithium battery systems. The method enables the precise quantification of active and inactive lithium, allowing for a better understanding of the degradation and failure of Li metal batteries.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Energy·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 2, 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.

In pursuit of better batteries

A team of University of Missouri researchers is working to understand why solid-state lithium-ion batteries struggle with performance issues. They will use a specialized electron microscope and thin film polymer coatings to study the interface between the battery cathode and electrolyte, with the goal of developing an engineered interf...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateSep 26, 2022

A little strain goes a long way in reducing fuel cell performance

Researchers found that a 2% reduction in atomic distance on the surface leads to a significant decrease in hydrogen ion conductivity, reducing fuel cell performance. Developing methods to mitigate this strain is crucial for improving high-performance fuel cells for clean energy production.

SourceKyushu University·JournalJournal of Physics Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2022

Researchers invent a new hybrid electrolyte for high performance Li-ion batteries

Scientists have developed a novel polymeric solid electrolyte with improved Li-ion conductivity and a wide potential window, making it suitable for practical use. The addition of a porous membrane enhances the electrolyte's performance by deterring Li dendrite formation, contributing to safer and more sustainable energy supply.

SourceTohoku University·JournaliScience·DateSep 7, 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.

New magnesium superionic conductor towards lithium-free solid-state batteries

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science create a metal–organic framework-based magnesium ion conductor showing superionic conductivity at room temperature, overcoming the limitations of magnesium ion-based energy devices. The novel Mg2+ electrolyte exhibits a high conductivity of 10−3 S cm−1, making it suitable for battery applica...

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

Novel strategy to make fast-charging solid-state batteries

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Science discovered that microscopic voids in lithium anodes cause dendrite formation in solid-state batteries. By adding a thin layer of refractory metals to the electrolyte surface, they delayed dendrite growth and extended battery life.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 2, 2022

Development for novel large-scale manufacturing technology of sulfide solid electrolytes

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology have developed a novel large-scale manufacturing technology for sulfide solid electrolytes, specifically Li7P3S11, which exhibits high ionic conductivity. This breakthrough enables the low-cost and scalable production of highly ion conductive solid electrolytes for all-solid-state batte...

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalAdvanced Energy and Sustainability Research·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 13, 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.

Building a new mechanical property evaluation method for atmospherically unstable sulfide solid electrolyte

Researchers developed an indentation test to evaluate mechanical properties of sulfide solid electrolytes, crucial for all-solid-state lithium-ion secondary batteries. The method enabled accurate assessment in inert atmosphere, confirming superior mechanical properties of sulfide-type solid electrolytes.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 15, 2022

Safer, more powerful batteries for electric cars, power grid

Solid-state batteries with little liquid electrolyte are safer than lithium-ion batteries in many cases. However, they also have limitations, such as slow lithium ion movement from the solid electrolyte to electrodes.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalJoule·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 7, 2022

A new electrolyte for greener and safer batteries

A new material, sodium carbo-hydridoborate, improves the performance of solid-state sodium batteries, making them more sustainable and durable. The ideal pressure to be applied to the battery for efficient operation has also been defined.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·TypeNews article·DateFeb 10, 2022
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.

Molecular paddlewheels propel sodium ions through next-generation batteries

Researchers at Duke University have discovered paddlewheel-like molecular dynamics that help push sodium ions through a quickly evolving class of solid-state batteries. The insights will guide researchers in their pursuit of a new generation of sodium-ion batteries to replace lithium-ion technology.

SourceDuke University·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 2022

Scientists reduce all-solid-state battery resistance by heating it

Researchers from Tokyo Tech and AIST develop a strategy to restore the low electrical resistance in all-solid-state lithium batteries. By heating the interface between the positive electrode and solid electrolyte, they reduce the resistance to comparable levels of unexposed batteries.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2022

Fueling the future with new perovskite-related oxide-ion conductors

Researchers have developed a new hexagonal perovskite-related oxide with excellent ionic conduction at intermediate and low temperatures, paving the way for efficient solid oxide fuel cells. The material's stability and ion conduction remain dominant in reducing atmospheres.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Development of an artificial vision device capable of mimicking human optical illusions

The National Institute for Materials Science in Japan has developed an ionic artificial vision device capable of increasing edge contrast between dark and light areas like human vision. This device uses ionic migration and interaction within solids to mimic human optical illusions without software.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·JournalNano Letters·TypeImaging analysis·DateNov 29, 2021

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

New scalable method resolves materials joining in solid-state batteries

Scientists at ORNL developed a scalable, low-cost method to improve materials joining in solid-state batteries, resolving one of the big challenges in commercial development. The electrochemical pulse method increases contact at the interface without detrimental effects, enabling an all-solid-state architecture.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2021

New material could pave way for better, safer batteries

Researchers develop solid-state battery material derived from trees, offering improved ion conductivity and potential solutions to safety concerns. The new material could enable the mass market adoption of solid-state battery technology.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 21, 2021

Scientists get closer to creating an efficient solid-state lithium battery

Researchers at Ural Federal University successfully experimentally determined the optimal thickness of an aluminum layer in a fully solid-state lithium power source. The results will be used to create high-energy batteries with increased operational safety and lower production costs.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalSolid State Ionics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2021
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.

A solid favor for researchers: A new way to investigate the electric double layer effect

Scientists at Tokyo University of Science develop a new methodology to investigate the elusive electric double layer (EDL) effect in all-solid-state batteries. The study reveals that the EDL effect is dominated by the electrolyte's composition and can be suppressed through charge compensation, leading to improved performance.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Sodium solid electrolyte combining high conductivity with electrochemical stability

Researchers developed a chlorine-substituted Na3SbS4 solid electrolyte with improved ionic conductivity and superior electrochemical stability, enabling long-term stability with Na metal anodes. The Cl substitution allows for three-dimensional ion diffusion pathways and reduces interfacial resistance.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateJul 6, 2021

How to prevent short-circuiting in next-gen lithium batteries

Researchers at MIT have developed a way to prevent dendrite formation in solid-state lithium batteries, potentially unlocking the potential of high-powered batteries. The team created a semisolid electrode with a self-healing surface, allowing for high current densities without dendrites.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Energy·DateMar 16, 2021
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Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.