Articles tagged with Water
Scientists from Japan have discovered a new type of ice, known as ice 0, which can cause water droplets to freeze near their surface rather than at their core. This discovery resolves a debate about the formation of ice and has significant implications for climate studies and food sciences.
A team of researchers has developed a novel 3D printing technology that creates bioinspired solar steam generators for desalination. The innovative design mimics the structure of trees and achieves high water evaporation efficiency, making it an efficient solution to address global freshwater scarcity.
Rensselaer researcher Kevin Rose links aquatic deoxygenation with broader Earth system stability. Global warming and pollutants disrupt biogeochemical processes in aquatic ecosystems, affecting freshwater and marine organisms. Critical thresholds of aquatic deoxygenation will impact several Planetary Boundaries.
Researchers found arsenic treatment media in 71% of tested homes and water softener resin in 84% of homes with water softeners, posing potential health risks to users. The study highlights the need for further research and recommends installing a post-treatment sediment filter to capture escaping media.
A research team at New Jersey Institute of Technology has developed a novel pre-treatment process to enhance the performance of existing GAC systems for PFAS removal. The approach involves adding a chemical that forms hydrophobic complexes with PFAS molecules, improving removal efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Researchers have developed a more effective method of removing organic pesticides from drinking water using powdered activated carbon particles as small as 6 μm. This process achieves significant water treatment savings while ensuring the removal of toxic chemicals.
Researchers developed a technique to separate well-mixed mixtures, creating an economically viable process for synthesizing and purifying ionic liquids like [bmim][BF4]. High-purity [bmim][BF4] was produced with a purity exceeding 99%, and the recovered layer containing methylimidazole could be recycled.
Researchers developed compact devices with absorbent-coated fins that trap moisture and generate potable water when heated. The prototype can produce up to 1.3 liters of water per day in dry air, outperforming previous systems.
New research from Edith Cowan University found that dietary nitrate may play a role in preventing cardiovascular disease, dementia, and diabetes. Moderate to high intakes of plant and vegetable sourced nitrate were associated with a lower risk of all-cause, CVD-related, and cancer-related mortality.
A new study finds that climate change could lead to a doubling of daily water collection times for women in certain regions by 2050. The researchers estimate that this would result in substantial welfare losses, equivalent to tens to hundreds of millions of US dollars per country and year.
Using caffeine as an indicator, researchers found that domestic wastewater is the primary source of contamination in storm drains, making it easier to identify and address leaks. The study aims to develop diagnostic technology to track down pollution caused by these leaks and protect public water bodies.
Researchers have developed a computer model that sheds light on extracting renewable energy from superhot, super deep rock. The model shows the formation of microscopic cracks creating a dense 'cloud of permeability' throughout the affected rock, which can lead to higher power delivery and efficiency.
A new study by Dr. Allan Hassaniyan argues Iran's water policy is discriminatory, leading to socioecological deterioration in peripheral regions and causing devastating effects on agriculture, health, and the environment.
A study published in Nature Water found that US children's simultaneous water and food insecurity increased nearly twice as much between 2005 and 2020. The research also revealed significant racial disparities, with Black children being 3.5 times more likely to experience both problems than white children.
A recent study has identified over 300 distinct types of bacteria in Roman Baths water, including those with antibiotic-producing capabilities. These microorganisms show promise as a potential source of novel natural products to combat antibiotic resistance.
A recent study predicts that three million people in Korea could face groundwater depletion by 2080 due to climate change and water overuse. The research analyzed surface and deep groundwater level data from 2009 to 2020, revealing critical spatiotemporal patterns in groundwater levels.
Researchers have developed a method to detect microplastics in marine and freshwater environments using porous metal substrates and machine learning. The system can identify six types of microplastics with high accuracy, offering a cost-effective solution for environmental monitoring.
The global clean water crisis is projected to intensify by the end of the century, affecting 66% of the population in areas with lack of clean water for at least a month. Climate change and socioeconomic developments drive water scarcity, particularly in developing countries.
The study found that green infrastructures such as botanical gardens, wetlands, and street trees are effective in cooling urban heat, with temperature reductions ranging from 9.63°C to 17.7°C. A nine-stage framework has been proposed to facilitate GBGI implementation and maximize benefits.
A new BU study links sewage overflows to increased risk of acute gastrointestinal illnesses in downstream communities. Residents are at a 62% higher risk of developing AGI within four days after large-volume combined sewer overflows, regardless of drinking water source.
Researchers have documented 75 locations across northern Alaska's Brooks Range where remote streams and rivers are turning from crystal clear blue to cloudy orange. The staining is likely caused by minerals exposed by thawing permafrost, resulting in highly acidic and corrosive conditions.
A new study led by University of Florida researcher Ashley Malin found a possible link between fluoride exposure during pregnancy and increased odds of neurobehavioral problems in children at age 3. The findings, based on an analysis of 229 mother-child pairs, suggest that higher fluoride levels may negatively affect fetal brain develo...
Researchers found that PFAS are introduced into the Great Lakes through precipitation and accumulate at different rates in each lake. The northern lakes are accumulating PFAS, while Lake Ontario is eliminating them. This study could inform future actions to mitigate PFAS presence in the Great Lakes.
Researchers from MIT and Georgia Tech have developed a filter made from yeast encapsulated in hydrogels that can quickly absorb lead from contaminated water. The process, called biosorption, uses waste beer yeast to bind to and remove heavy metal ions, offering a potentially cost-effective alternative to existing technologies.
A new study from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa found that chlorine mixed with petroleum in water can produce disinfection byproducts harmful to human health. The researchers discovered elevated levels of THM4 and HAA5, which are classified as regulated disinfection byproducts.
A new, affordable sensor technology can detect lead concentrations as low as one part per billion, making it a significant step forward in addressing global health issues. The handheld device can be used for on-site monitoring and requires only a droplet of water.
A study published in Nature Geoscience elucidates the discrepancy between Martian and Earth-based organic matter. Researchers found that photodissociation of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere leads to organic matter with depleted carbon-13 content, pointing to an atmospheric process as the main source.
A UC San Diego study found that people injecting drugs in San Diego and Tijuana often lacked access to drinking water, toilets, handwashing facilities, and showers. The study highlights the need for improved access to safe water, sanitation, and hygiene services in both cities to reduce health disparities.
The study reveals that the formation of pyramid-shaped structures around water molecules is dominant at low ethanol concentrations, but chain-like structures become more prevalent at higher temperatures. This explains why baijiu has a distinct taste at room temperature, which disappears at higher temperatures.
A new computer model uses improved artificial intelligence to predict snow and water availability more accurately, considering both time and space. This information can help farmers and water planners make better decisions about water allocation.
New research demonstrates that incorporating widgeongrass into seagrass restoration efforts can increase the portfolio of species diversity and enhance long-term success. The study found that seeding widgeongrass in the fall with minimal pre-treatment resulted in highest survival and growth rates.
MIT researchers demonstrate that light can break water molecules away from the surface and float them into the air, causing evaporation in the absence of heat. This phenomenon has significant implications for understanding cloud formation and precipitation, as well as designing new industrial processes such as solar-powered desalination.
Researchers at UCSF have identified laryngeal and tracheal neuroendocrine cells that sense water and acid in the upper airway, triggering a cough reflex. The discovery could lead to interventions to prevent pneumonia and treat certain types of chronic cough.
A team of UCF researchers is exploring the use of gold to develop a novel method to rid drinking water of harmful algal blooms, which produce toxic effects on humans and wildlife. The project aims to remove microcystins, toxins linked to liver damage, kidney failure, and allergic reactions.
Researchers found that continuous, real-time eco-feedback technology reduced shower water runtime by 77 seconds (25.79%) and raised over £1 million in investment for smart water saving solutions.
A research team proposes a method to quantify the 'golden-hour water use efficiency' (GHW) trait, aiming to breed high-yielding and water-efficient crop varieties. The study focuses on the importance of balancing water conservation with biomass output in crops, offering a greener alternative for agricultural productivity.
A new hypothesis paper proposes that Parkinson's disease starts in either the brain's smell center or the body's intestinal tract, tied to environmental factors. The study suggests that exposure to pesticides, air pollution, and tainted food may predispose to the disease.
A new UNSW-led international study reveals that much of the world's global source water contains PFAS levels above recommended drinking water guidelines. In Australia, firefighting foams used in military institutions and fire training facilities are a common source of contamination, with many locations exceeding safe limits.
A study from Colorado State University explores how human activity is altering the atmospheric water cycle, leading to changes in precipitation distribution and cloud formation. The research uses science fiction narratives to imagine possible futures and spark conversations around water management policies.
The UK's 2022 drought, the worst since 1976, emphasized the importance of early mitigation measures due to its rapid onset and extensive impacts on water resources, wildlife, and people. Improved monitoring and forecasting systems can help prevent similar extreme weather events in the future.
A new water quality analysis technique can detect organic chemicals in rivers and lakes, identifying their source and predicting their impact. This method uses high-resolution mass spectrometry to analyze water samples within an hour, providing a comprehensive overview of all organic molecules present.
A randomized controlled trial found that filters, coupled with a digital health program, reduced urinary arsenic levels by 47% in households relying on well water. The study, conducted in American Indian communities, also showed significant increases in household use of filtered water for drinking and cooking.
Researchers are exploring engineered geothermal systems and innovative drilling technologies to unlock superhot rock energy. However, significant gaps in research and development need to be addressed to achieve temperatures over 375°C.
A new study finds that nearly half of America's carceral facilities are in watersheds contaminated with PFAS, putting millions at risk. The research highlights the need for better water quality monitoring and mitigation in prisons, jails, and detention centers.
A new study from the University of Sheffield found that around 32% of the global population is at risk of serious health issues due to high levels of arsenic in drinking water. The majority of these countries are in Asia, where rice is a staple food and exposure can be exacerbated by cooking with contaminated water.
Climate change is causing rapid warming of Scotland's lochs, with potential costs of £16.5 million annually due to algal blooms and reduced water quality. Implementing efficient land management practices could reduce phosphorus pollution by 20% under a best-case scenario.
Virginia Tech researchers have received a five-year National Science Foundation grant to develop an open-source automated forecasting system for lakes. The system will enable real-time data collection and publishing, allowing researchers to predict water quality in lakes around the globe.
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a new metric to measure water storage in snowpacks, which reveals a 22% drop in annual storage over the past four decades. This finding is important for water managers as it can help make long-term planning decisions for adjusting infrastructure options.
A potentially fatal parasite has been discovered in the Colorado River in California, affecting dogs and causing liver and intestinal illness. Researchers confirm the presence of Heterobilharzia americana, a flatworm that can be transmitted through snails and water, highlighting the need for awareness and precautions among dog owners.
Scientists have developed an engine that efficiently converts energy from water evaporation into electricity, producing outputs exceeding 100 volts. The device can operate for several days using only 100 milliliters of water as fuel.
Cranfield University has secured over £25 million to establish two new Centres for Doctoral Training, focusing on advancing water security and net zero aviation. The centres will equip students with high-level skills and technologies to drive positive change in these critical areas.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new sensor that can detect tiny quantities of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water. The device uses lateral flow technology and can measure concentrations as low as 200 parts per trillion, offering a potential solution for consumer testing and industrial applications.
Competitive DOM removal impacts OMP adsorption, with nonpolar molecules having higher competitiveness due to medium aromaticity. Aromatic DOM is not competitive against OMPs in adsorption, contrary to initial expectations.
Researchers at Oregon State University have identified a metal-organic framework that can completely remove and break down glyphosate, a widely used herbicide. The material, Sc-TBAPy, shows faster adsorption and photodegradation of glyphosate compared to other MOFs.
Researchers found that boiling and filtering calcium-containing tap water can effectively remove nearly 90% of nano- and microplastics. Boiling even in soft water samples removed around 25% of NMPs, suggesting this simple method could be a game-changer for reducing human plastic consumption.
Researchers from EPFL have made significant strides in deciphering the electronic structure of water using computational methods that go beyond current approaches. The study accurately determines water's ionization potential, electron affinity, and band gap, essential for understanding its interactions with light and substances.
A global team of researchers has invented recyclable water batteries that don't catch fire or explode, addressing safety concerns in lithium-ion technology. The batteries use abundant materials like magnesium and zinc, reducing manufacturing costs and environmental risks.
The team developed a 'catch-and-release' mechanism to oxidize hydrophobic compounds, selectively and efficiently producing hydrophilic products under mild conditions. This breakthrough enables the selective two-electron oxidation of anthracene and aromatic compounds from mixtures, solving a long-standing challenge.
Researchers use a new technique to isolate energetic electron motion in liquid water, providing a window into electronic structure on an attosecond timescale. This breakthrough resolves long-standing debates about X-ray signals in liquid water and opens up a new field of experimental physics.
Scientists have developed a cage-like molecule to trap sulfate in water, which could help control its concentration in health, industry, and environmental management. The molecular trap can be prepared inexpensively from off-the-shelf chemicals and has potential applications in medicine, such as treating cystic fibrosis.