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Chemistry professor R. Graham Cooks expands research of water droplet interfaces that offer the secret ingredient for building life

Researchers have found that the key step to protein formation can occur in droplets of pure water, where amino acids connect to form peptides with the same 'L' handedness. The discovery resolves a paradox and provides new insights into the early stages of life's chemical evolution.

SourcePurdue University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 24, 2024

EWG study: Eating one freshwater fish equals a month of drinking ‘forever chemicals’ water

A new study by Environmental Working Group scientists reveals that consuming one serving of freshwater fish per year is equivalent to ingesting water with high levels of the toxic chemical PFOS for a month. The study analyzed data from over 500 fish samples and found median amounts of PFAS in freshwater fish to be 280 times greater tha...

SourceEnvironmental Working Group·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 17, 2023

Researchers shed (laser) light on emerging water treatment technique

A team of researchers from the University of Rhode Island has discovered new details about the chemical reaction that occurs when ferrate is exposed to visible and ultraviolet light. The findings could help optimize the use of ferrate in water treatment applications, making it a promising option for smaller systems.

SourceUniversity of Rhode Island·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2022

Material separates water from … water

A Kyoto University research group has developed a material that effectively separates heavy water from normal water at room temperature. The discovery uses an adsorption-separation method based on copper-based porous coordination polymers, which utilize the flipping action of linkers to separate molecules.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature·DateNov 9, 2022

Novel multi-proton carrier complex as efficient proton conductor at high temperatures

A team of researchers from Tokyo University of Science has developed a novel multi-proton carrier complex that shows efficient proton conductivity even at high temperatures. The resulting starburst-type metal complex acts as a proton transmitter, making it 6 times more potent than individual imidazole molecules.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2022

How is pharmaceutical pollution affecting the world’s rivers?

A recent study found that approximately 43.5% of rivers worldwide have concerning concentrations of pharmaceutical ingredients, including antidepressants and painkillers. The research highlights the need to reduce emissions of these substances into the environment to mitigate their impact on river health.

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateJun 22, 2022

Chung-Ang university researchers pioneer new way to manipulate microdroplets

Scientists at Chung-Ang University have pioneered a novel method for controlling microdroplet motion on solid surfaces using near-infrared light. This approach allows for more precise control than traditional thermal techniques and opens up new possibilities for applications in microfluidics, drug delivery, and self-cleaning surfaces.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2022

Earth’s water was around before Earth

Researchers found two gas reservoirs, one containing solar gas and the other with terrestrial water signature, in the earliest stages of our solar system. This discovery suggests that Earth's water was present before the accretion of its constituent blocks.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Astronomy·DateFeb 3, 2022

Sugar could help repair artificial human joints

Researchers at Durham University have developed a sugar-containing polymer coating that can repair damaged artificial joint implants by mimicking the way cartilage works to lubricate human joints. The coating uses water to create a slippery surface, protecting the surfaces from wear and tear.

SourceDurham University·JournalChem·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 24, 2021

Color-changing indicator predicts algal blooms

Researchers developed a color-changing indicator that detects rising levels of alkaline phosphatase, forecasting phytoplankton growth and impending algal blooms. The portable system reliably detected enzyme activity using smartphone scanning apps, potentially enabling real-time field monitoring and prediction.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateNov 3, 2021

Are there DBPs in that cup of tea?

A recent study measured 60 DBPs in three types of tea and found that brewed tea contained significantly lower levels of DBPs than tap water. However, the researchers also identified 15 previously uncharacterized compounds that likely form from chlorine reactions with natural precursors in tea leaves.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateSep 15, 2021

Reflecting on the year in chemistry

The American Chemical Society's Year in Chemistry 2019 special issue features top research trends, including advances in machine-learning, microplastics, and 3-D printing. Experts predict further AI advancements and greener processes for making nitrogen-based compounds and materials in 2020.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateDec 18, 2019

Creating a nanospace like no other

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology and the University of Cambridge built a self-assembled nanocage with antiaromatic walls, defying conventional assumptions. The nanospace was tested with guest molecules, showing significant deshielding effects due to the antiaromatic environment.

Are microplastics in the environment truly harmful?

Researchers found significant gaps in understanding microplastic effects, with concentrations detected being orders of magnitude lower than those affecting organisms in lab tests. The study highlights a need for more environmentally realistic studies and better monitoring of specific environmental regions.

SourceWiley·JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Chemistry·DateOct 17, 2018

Capturing 'black gold' with light

Graphene, known as 'black gold', has high surface area and can effectively purify contaminated water due to its unique structure. Using light, researchers can extract the graphene and contaminants, enabling easier purification.

SourceMonash University·JournalNanoscale·DateMar 16, 2016

Recycling industrial waste water

Scientists at the University of Cologne have discovered a new method to produce hydrogen from water and formaldehyde. The approach can be used to break down contaminants in industrial waste water while generating hydrogen, reclaiming an important raw material.

SourceUniversity of Cologne·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 16, 2014

Changes in water chemistry leave lake critters defenseless

A new study found that changes in lake water chemistry, caused by acid rain and logging, are leaving small water organisms like plankton without adequate armor, making them easy prey for predators. The researchers warn that this could have significant consequences for the entire ecosystem.

SourceYork University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 6, 2012

Cold chemistry

Researchers find that icy dust specks on interstellar clouds can speed up chemical reactions, forming complex organic molecules. This discovery sheds light on the origins of life in the Universe, suggesting that these dust grains may play a crucial role in seeding galaxies with chemical potential for life.

Indoor air purifiers that produce even small amounts of ozone may be risky for health

A recent study by the University of California - Irvine has found that indoor air purifiers producing even small amounts of ozone can exceed public health standards. This increases exposure to ozone levels in excess of health guidelines for people operating these devices indoors, potentially worsening respiratory issues such as asthma.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalJournal of the Air & Waste Management Association·DateMay 9, 2006