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Advanced technology allows automated 3D tracking of leaked gas

Researchers developed an automated method to create 3D images of leaked gas clouds, enabling precise location, volume, and concentration determination. This technology can provide early leak warnings, assess risk, or determine the best way to fix leaks in large facilities with stored toxic chemicals.

SourceOptica·JournalOptics Express·DateJun 30, 2022

The impact of extinction

New research links high levels of stratospheric sulfur to the Chicxulub impact, which ignited widespread fires and global cooling. The unique fingerprints in sulfur aerosols provide direct evidence for catastrophic climate change and cooling.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 21, 2022

Sewer treasure

Researchers at Stanford University developed an electrochemical sulfur oxidation process that can transform wastewater into valuable materials. The technology has the potential to power renewable energy-powered wastewater treatment, creating drinkable water.

SourceStanford University·JournalACS ES&T Engineering·DateMar 2, 2022

Breakthrough in cathode chemistry clears the path for Li-S batteries' commercial viability

Researchers at Drexel University have developed a stable sulfur cathode that functions in a commercially viable carbonate electrolyte, enabling Li-S batteries with three times the capacity of Li-ion batteries and lasting over 4,000 recharges. This breakthrough paves the way for more sustainable battery alternatives.

SourceDrexel University·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 10, 2022

Pusan National University scientists enhance durability of lithium-sulfur batteries with dyes

Researchers developed a novel coating material based on methylene blue dye to mitigate the polysulfide shuttling effect in lithium-sulfur batteries, improving their durability and electrochemical performance. This breakthrough could lead to the widespread adoption of sustainable energy storage systems.

SourcePusan National University·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

Korea Maritime & Ocean University researchers champion LPG as a green alternative ship fuel

Researchers from Korea Maritime & Ocean University found that using LPG as a marine fuel can reduce annual fuel consumption by 7.5-10.4%, fuel cost by 8.8-25.9%, and carbon dioxide emissions by 10-14%. The study also highlights the potential for promoting LPG as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fuels.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 11, 2022

Why cannabis smells skunky

Researchers discovered a new family of prenylated volatile sulfur compounds responsible for the characteristic skunky smell of cannabis. The findings suggest these compounds could have medicinal properties and are being investigated further.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Omega·DateDec 1, 2021

Before geoengineering, some fundamental chemistry

A new study suggests that atmospheric conditions in the stratosphere pose a challenge to generating sulfuric acid, a crucial component of a proposed geoengineering strategy to mitigate climate change. Researchers found that solar radiation causes HOSO2 to quickly photolyse, breaking it down into harmful sulfur dioxide, which may reduce...

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 22, 2021

Scientists look to nature to discover method for installing sulfur into complex molecules

A new study from Scripps Research Institute reveals a previously unrecognized way that nature solves the problem of persulfide instability, through the generation of helpful enzymes. The discovery provides researchers with a new method for generating potentially important sulfur-based molecules in the lab.

SourceScripps Research Institute·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 1, 2021

Nitrogen inputs in the ancient ocean

Researchers have found that purple sulfur bacteria in a modern-day lake can fix nitrogen very efficiently, even at low molybdenum concentrations. This discovery provides the first indication that these bacteria may have played a significant role in nitrogen fixation in the Proterozoic ocean.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 6, 2021

Rice lab peers inside 2D crystal synthesis

The Rice University engineers have unveiled the process of MoS2's synthesis in a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) furnace. Their simulations showed that it takes three steps to deposit an atomically thin lattice onto a surface, involving sublimation, reaction with sulfur atoms, and crystallization.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 11, 2021

Ice core data show why, despite lower sulfur emissions in US and Western Europe, air pollution is dropping more slowly

Researchers analyzed ice core data from Greenland to understand the relationship between sulfur dioxide emissions and sulfate aerosols. They found that sulfate levels have declined more slowly than sulfur dioxide emissions, especially in wintertime, due to a reaction that partially mitigates reductions.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 6, 2021

New insulation takes heat off environment

Researchers at Flinders University have developed a new sustainable insulation material using waste cooking oil, sulfur, and wool offcuts, offering promising energy savings for property owners and tenants. The composite boasts low flammability and biodegradable properties, aligning with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals.

SourceFlinders University·JournalChemSusChem·DateMar 12, 2021

Sulfur: the consequences

A team of scientists found that sulfur metabolism plays a crucial role in the transition from single-celled to multicellular organisms. By manipulating sulfur levels, they were able to induce or prevent the formation of multicellular aggregates in the slime mold Dictyostelium discoideum. This discovery has significant implications for ...

Bricks made from plastic, organic waste

Scientists at Flinders University have developed a new method to create sustainable building blocks, including bricks made from recycled PVC and organic waste. The 'green' bricks can be repeatedly ground up and recycled, reducing waste and promoting a circular economy.

SourceFlinders University·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateMay 26, 2020

2D sandwich sees molecules with clarity

Researchers at Rice University have created a 2D Janus compound that enhances the detection of biomolecules via surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy. The nonmetallic material boosts signal strength, reducing background noise and improving detection limits.

SourceRice University·JournalNanoscale·DateMay 14, 2020