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Self-cleaning fuel cells? Researchers reveal steam-powered fix for ‘sulfur poisoning’

University of Utah researchers have discovered a steam-enabled self-cleaning mechanism that dramatically improves sulfur tolerance in solid oxide fuel cell anodes. The addition of rhodium leads to the formation of bimetallic nanoparticles that actively resist sulfur poisoning and autonomously regenerate under steam exposure.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2026

Designing a sulfur vacancy redox disruptor for photothermoelectric and cascade‑catalytic‑driven cuproptosis–ferroptosis–apoptosis therapy

Researchers develop biodegradable Cu2MnS3-x-PEG/glucose oxidase nanosheets for photothermoelectric and cascade-catalytic-driven cuproptosis-ferroptosis-apoptosis therapy. This work offers a blueprint for next-generation nanotherapies, integrating energy conversion, metabolic interference, and immune activation.

SourceShanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center·JournalNano-Micro Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 2025

Chemists help solve mystery of missing space sulfur

Astronomers have long been puzzled by the lack of molecular sulfur in space, but a new study suggests that it may be hiding in interstellar ice. The research identifies possible stable configurations of sulfur molecules that can form on icy dust grains, giving scientists a potential road map to solving the puzzle.

SourceUniversity of Mississippi·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 11, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Integrating sulfur into crystalline nanostructures fuels catalytic activity

Researchers from Northwestern University developed a novel approach to integrate metal-sulfur active sites into metal-organic frameworks, which significantly outperformed their non-sulfur counterparts in hydrogenation catalysis. The study provides a powerful new strategy to design and study metal-sulfur catalysts for various applications.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateJul 24, 2025

From beam to battery: HKUST’s single-step laser printing supercharges high-performance lithium-sulfur batteries

Researchers developed a novel single-step laser printing technique to manufacture integrated sulfur cathodes, resulting in high-performance lithium-sulfur batteries. The process reduces time and complexity compared to traditional methods, enabling faster and more efficient production.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 23, 2025

Corn leads to improved performance in lithium-sulfur batteries

Researchers at Washington State University have developed a protective barrier made of corn protein to improve the performance of lithium-sulfur batteries. The addition of corn protein significantly improved the battery's lifespan, allowing it to hold its charge over 500 cycles.

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Power Sources·DateApr 15, 2025
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Metal-valence-state modulation of transition metal oxides boosts lithium–sulfur battery performance

Researchers developed a CuO catalyst that enhances lithium–sulfur battery performance by regulating Li-bond chemistries and reducing sulfur conversion kinetics. The study demonstrates exceptional catalytic performance under harsh operating conditions, showcasing the potential of CuO as an earth-abundant alternative to precious metals.

SourceParticuology·JournalParticuology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 26, 2025

Whose air quality are we monitoring?

Researchers found systemic monitoring disparities for six major pollutants across US Census groups, with Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders facing the largest gaps. The study highlights the need to consider biases in datasets beyond algorithmic bias.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalJAMA·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 18, 2025

X-ray snapshot: How light bends an active substance

Researchers used X-ray light to analyze the structure of 2-thiouracil, a substance with medically relevant properties. The study found that UV radiation causes the molecule to bend, resulting in the protrusion of the sulfur atom and making it reactive.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2025
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Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Single-cell elemental analysis using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)

Scientists from Chiba University successfully analyzed human chronic myelogenous leukemia cells using a new sample introduction system, achieving accurate elemental composition measurements without damaging the cells. The study expands the potential of ICP-MS technology for mammalian cultured cell analysis.

SourceChiba University·JournalJournal of Analytical Atomic Spectrometry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 22, 2025

Asteroid impact sulfur release less lethal in dinosaur extinction

A new study estimates that only 67 billion tons of sulfur were released after the Chicxulub asteroid impact, approximately five times less than previously estimated. This suggests a milder 'impact winter' and faster climate recovery, potentially contributing to the survival of at least 25% of species on Earth.

SourceVrije Universiteit Brussel·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 16, 2025
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Lithium-sulphur pouch cells investigated at BESSY II

Lithium-sulphur batteries have high specific energy densities but are susceptible to degradation due to polysulphide and sulphur phase formation. Researchers investigated lithium-sulphur pouch cells using operando analysis, revealing new insights into cell component design and performance.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2025

Researchers unlock probable hot spots for critical metals

New research from Macquarie University identifies the probable locations and mechanisms of accumulations of critical metals at the margins of old cores of continents. These areas have been found to contain more sulfur and copper than elsewhere on the continents, making them potential targets for future exploration activities.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2025

Potential culprit identified in lingering Crohn’s disease symptoms

A study by Michigan Medicine researchers suggests that sulfur-producing bacteria may be behind lingering Crohn's disease symptoms, even in the absence of inflammation. The study found that these bacteria can lead to increased visceral hypersensitivity and altered intestinal permeability, contributing to persistent symptoms.

SourceMichigan Medicine - University of Michigan·JournalInflammatory Bowel Diseases·TypeObservational study·DateDec 19, 2024

Unlocking the journey of gold through magmatic fluids

A UNIGE team has demonstrated that sulphur in its bisulphide (HS- ) form plays a critical role in transporting gold in magmatic fluids. The study uses innovative methodology to replicate extreme pressure and temperature conditions, providing new insights into the formation of precious metal ore deposits.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalNature Geoscience·TypeNews article·DateDec 16, 2024

Oceans emit sulfur and cool the climate more than previously thought

A recent study reveals that oceans produce a previously unknown sulfur gas called methanethiol, which cools the climate by increasing aerosol formation and reflecting solar radiation. This new compound is found to have a greater cooling capacity than dimethyl sulphide and its impact on climate models.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 27, 2024
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SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Oil spill still contaminating sensitive Mauritius mangroves three years on

Researchers confirm oil presence in Mauritius mangrove forest close to Ramsar conservation sites, three years after MV Wakashio spill. The oil has undergone weathering and biodegradation, but its ongoing presence poses an unknown risk to the sensitive ecosystem.

SourceCurtin University·JournalMarine Pollution Bulletin·TypeObservational study·DateNov 25, 2024

Ships now spew less sulfur, but warming has sped up

A new study finds that reduced sulfur emissions from shipping industry likely contributed to nearly 20% of record-breaking 2023 warmth, while regulations also accelerated warming. Further research is needed to understand the magnitude of climate response.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 12, 2024

Shedding light on the chemical enigma of sulfur trioxide in the atmosphere

The study reveals sulfur trioxide can form acid sulfuric anhydride products with organic and inorganic acids, contributing to atmospheric new particle formation. These findings improve aerosol formation prediction models, aiding in managing air pollution and mitigating climate change impacts.

SourceTampere University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 23, 2024

UTA chemist developing method to recycle more plastics

A UTA chemist has developed a new method to separate and recycle mixed plastics using supercritical fluid chromatography. The technique can differentiate oils created from various plastics, holding promise for improving recycling rates and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·JournalJournal of Chromatography A·TypeObservational study·DateMay 22, 2024
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.

Healable cathode could unlock potential of solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries

Researchers developed a new cathode material composed of sulfur and iodine, increasing electrical conductivity by 11 orders of magnitude and possessing a low melting point. The new material can be easily re-melted to repair damaged interfaces, addressing cumulative damage during repeated charging and discharging.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateMar 6, 2024

Researchers observe highly excited ‘roaming’ energy pathway in chemical reactions

Chemical reactions were long thought to occur along minimum energy paths. However, researchers have now observed 'roaming' reactions that stray from this path even in highly excited energy states. This discovery has significant implications for understanding atmospheric chemistry and the production of molecular oxygen.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalScience·DateFeb 15, 2024

Geoengineering may slow Greenland ice sheet loss

Researchers found that injecting aerosols into the stratosphere can reduce ice sheet loss by up to 37.6 mm sea-level rise, slowing global warming's effects. However, geoengineering addresses only symptoms, not root causes, and may delay necessary changes.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of Geophysical Research Earth Surface·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 30, 2024
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Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Rice scientists pull off quantum coup

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a new material that exhibits both quantum correlations and geometric frustration, resulting in a unique flat band structure. This finding provides empirical evidence of the effect in a 3D material and has implications for understanding exotic features in materials science.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2024

Sulfur-cycling microbes could lead to new possibilities in river-wetland-ocean remediation

Researchers propose a conceptual framework for understanding the diversity and composition of sulfur-cycling microbes in river-wetland-ocean continuum. They recommend developing new cultivation methods and studying life strategies, communities, and adaptations to improve ecosystem functioning through microbiome engineering.

SourceOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research (OLAR)·JournalOcean-Land-Atmosphere Research·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 5, 2023

Separating out signals recorded at the seafloor

Researchers separate out microbial and environmental controls on marine sedimentary pyrite sulfur isotope ratios, revealing local processes that dominate the record. This breakthrough refutes previous hypotheses and offers a new framework for interpreting ancient signals.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalScience·DateNov 23, 2023

North Atlantic’s marine productivity may not be declining, according to new study of older ice cores

A new study by the University of Washington challenges previous findings of declining phytoplankton in the North Atlantic. The researchers analyzed an ice core from central Greenland and found that human-generated pollutants changed the atmosphere's chemistry, offsetting a decrease in marine productivity.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 13, 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
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.

Analysis finds diversity on the smallest scales in sulfur-cycling salt marsh microbes

Researchers analyzed DNA sequenced datasets of microbes collected from salt marsh sites to study the relationship between cordgrasses and sulfur-cycling microbes. They found diverse microbial communities with varying combinations of genes for sulfate reduction and sulfur oxidation, allowing them to thrive in salt marsh sediments.

SourceMarine Biological Laboratory·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 26, 2023

Revolutionizing energy storage: Metal nanoclusters for stable lithium–sulfur batteries

Researchers have developed a metal nanocluster-based separator for lithium-sulfur batteries, accelerating electrochemical kinetics and improving capacity and cycling stability. The technology has the potential to increase the adoption of sustainable energy storage systems, including electric vehicles and renewable energy.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2023
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Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Oxygen production from volcanic sulfur dioxide photochemistry: a possible trigger for earth's great oxidation event

Scientists discovered oxygen production from vacuum ultraviolet photodissociation of sulfur dioxide, a possible trigger for the Earth's Great Oxidation Event. The study found that this process contributed to transient oxygen accumulation in the primitive atmosphere.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalChemical Science·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 31, 2023

Mix and Match: How a Methanogen creates its own sulfate reduction machinery

Researchers discovered a methanogen that converts sulfate into a cellular building block, reassembling a metabolic pathway piece by piece. The microbe assembled the first sulfate assimilation pathway from a methanogen, using genetic tricks to overcome energetic costs and toxic intermediates.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalNature Microbiology·DateJun 5, 2023
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.

Reduced emissions during the pandemic led to increased climate warming

Reduced emissions during the pandemic led to decreased concentrations of short-lived cooling particles, but not greenhouse gases. This resulted in stronger climate warming due to the 'masking effect' being lifted. The study suggests a complete transition to renewable energy could lead to rapid 'unmasking' of aerosols.

SourceStockholm University·Journalnpj Climate and Atmospheric Science·DateMay 31, 2023

Scientists detect seismic waves traveling through Martian core for the first time

Researchers used NASA InSight data to directly measure Mars' core properties, finding a completely liquid iron-alloy core with high percentages of sulfur and oxygen. This discovery provides new insights into Martian formation and geological differences between Earth and Mars, potentially impacting planetary habitability.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 24, 2023

UH led study finds sulfate pollution impacts Texas gulf coast air

A study led by University of Houston researchers found that the Texas Gulf Coast is polluted with high concentrations of sulfate, a major component of particulate matter. The pollution originates from anthropogenic shipping emissions and chemical processing, making it particularly hazardous to human health.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 29, 2023

Ice cores show even dormant volcanoes leak abundant sulfur into the atmosphere

A new study published in Geophysical Research Letters reveals that even dormant volcanoes release a surprisingly high amount of sulfur into the Arctic atmosphere. This finding has significant implications for understanding Earth's atmosphere and its relationship with climate and air quality.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 3, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

SwRI-contributed study provides darkest view ever of interstellar ices

Researchers utilized the James Webb Space Telescope to observe dense interstellar clouds, revealing a treasure trove of pristine ices from the early universe. The study provides new insights into chemical processes in one of the coldest places in the universe, offering clues on molecular origins and sulfur storage.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·JournalNature Astronomy·TypeObservational study·DateJan 23, 2023

Turning a poison into food

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology reveal how a specific enzyme, Fsr, converts sulfite into sulfide, allowing methanogens to grow safely on toxic substances. This discovery opens opportunities for biotechnological applications and provides insights into the evolution of these microorganisms.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Marine Microbiology·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJan 19, 2023

Air quality improvements lead to more sulfur fertilizer use

A new study found a clear increase in sulfur fertilizer use in the Midwest as atmospheric sulfur deposition declined. The study, which analyzed decades of data, suggests that farmers replaced lost airborne nutrient with fertilizer.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalCommunications Earth & Environment·DateJan 9, 2023

Scientists fabricated highly long-life Li-S batteries based on multifunctional separators functionalized by porous mediators

Researchers fabricated Li-S batteries with ultra-long cycle life over 2000 cycles via multifunctional separator design. The novel hollow and hierarchically porous Fe3O4 nanospheres effectively regulate LiPSs behavior, achieving high sulfur utilization and excellent electrochemical performances.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateDec 15, 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.

New cellular protective mechanism discovered

Scientists at the University of Tsukuba have identified a system to transport excess reactive sulfur species out of cells, maintaining redox homeostasis and preventing oxidative stress. This discovery opens new avenues for research into sulfur stress and related diseases.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalRedox Biology·DateOct 31, 2022

Modulating MoSe2 functional plane via doping-defect engineering strategy to develop conductive and electrocatalytic mediators in Li-S batteries

Researchers developed a conductive and electrocatalytic mediator for Li-S batteries by modulating the MoSe2 functional plane through doping-defect engineering. This approach improves lithium polysulfide adsorption, reducing the shuttle effect and enhancing overall battery performance.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateSep 22, 2022
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.

A new concept for low-cost batteries

Researchers at MIT have developed a new kind of battery using abundant and inexpensive materials, offering a potential solution for large-scale backup power systems. The battery's molten salt electrolyte has been shown to prevent dendrite shorting, a common reliability issue in lithium-ion batteries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateAug 24, 2022

Brushing thin films onto electrodes preserves batteries

Researchers at Rice University have developed a method to create a thin film coating on lithium anodes using powder brushing, which improves battery life and capacity. The coated anodes retained 70% more capacity after 340 charge-discharge cycles than off-the-shelf batteries.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2022

Sulfur shortage: a potential resource crisis looming as the world decarbonises

A projected shortage of sulfuric acid could stifle green technology advancement and threaten global food security. Researchers estimate a shortfall in annual supply between 100-320 million tonnes by 2040, depending on decarbonisation pace. Developing low-cost methods to extract elemental sulfur is crucial to mitigate the crisis.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalGeographical Journal·DateAug 21, 2022
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.

New analysis shows how sulfur clouds can form in Venus’ atmosphere

A team of researchers, including atmospheric chemists from the University of Pennsylvania, identified a novel pathway for sulfur particle formation in Venus' atmosphere. This new understanding sheds light on the source of ultraviolet-absorbing emissions and offers cautionary notes for geoengineering efforts.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 16, 2022

First global map of cargo ship pollution reveals effects of fuel regulations

A new study used satellite data to determine the effect of fuel regulations on sulfur pollution from cargo ships. The research team found significant changes in pollution after regulations went into effect, and their data can contribute to understanding how pollutants interact with clouds and affect global temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Maryland Baltimore County·JournalScience Advances·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 2, 2022

These energy-packed batteries work well in extreme cold and heat

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed temperature-resilient lithium-ion batteries with high energy density, compatible with high-temperature operation. These batteries could enable electric vehicles to travel farther on a single charge in cold climates and reduce overheating in hot climates.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 4, 2022
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.