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Safer metal recycling for the battery industry

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a safer metal recycling method for the battery industry using renewable biomass, reducing the risk of fire and hazardous substance exposure. The new method performs just as well as conventional processes in extracting important metals.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalRSC Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 1, 2026
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.

Researchers use AI to discover new catalyst beyond material boundaries

A deep learning model combines knowledge from different catalyst families to identify a top-performing green hydrogen catalyst. The AI correctly predicted the activity ranking of 12 tested catalysts within a previously unexplored material family.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 28, 2026

‘Just-shoring’ puts justice at the center of critical minerals policy

A new framework, 'just-shoring,' aims to shift focus from competition and security to the rights and interests of local communities whose lands are most at risk. The approach prioritizes accountability and transparency, giving communities a legal right to co-govern throughout the mineral lifecycle.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature Energy·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateMar 13, 2026

Why the world's cobalt supply chain is more fragile than it looks

The study reveals how shocks in one country or production stage can cascade across borders and life-cycle stages, triggering widespread failures throughout the global cobalt supply chain network. Systemic risks concentrate upstream but accumulate most severely at refining and manufacturing bottlenecks.

SourceChinese Society for Environmental Sciences·JournalEnvironmental Science and Ecotechnology·DateJan 9, 2026
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Climate-friendly metals from deep-sea ores

Researchers at Max Planck Institute present efficient and low-CO2 process to extract copper, nickel, and cobalt from deep-sea ore nodules. The method generates significantly less waste and deforestation compared to traditional land-based mining.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 4, 2025

Metalloligand enabling cobalt-catalyzed anti-markovnikov hydrosilylation of alkynes with tertiary silanes

Researchers discovered a cobalt-catalyzed anti-Markovnikov hydrosilylation reaction of terminal alkynes with tertiary silanes using a dinuclear cobalt carbonyl complex coordinated by the bidentate phosphine ligand Xantphos. The catalyst achieves excellent β/α selectivity and exhibits good compatibility with functional groups.

SourceChinese Chemical Society·JournalCCS Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 22, 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.

Turning pollution into fuel with record-breaking CO₂-to-CO conversion rates

Researchers developed a streamlined process for converting CO₂ into carbon monoxide with record-breaking efficiency, cutting down processing time from 24 hours to 15 minutes. The new method uses low-cost pigment-based catalysts and offers a promising pathway for carbon neutral energy production.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateApr 8, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Don’t use your battery until it runs out!

A recent study identified a quasi-conversion reaction on the cathode surface during discharging, leading to accelerated battery degradation. High nickel content exacerbates this effect.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateMar 31, 2025

Self-optimizing catalysts facilitate water-splitting for the green production of hydrogen

Researchers have developed cost-effective and efficient water-splitting catalysts using cobalt and tungsten, which surprisingly increase in performance over time. The unique self-optimization process involves changes in the chemical nature of the catalyzing oxide, leading to improved activity and reduced overpotentials.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 11, 2025

Conjugated phthalocyanine framework-based artificial SEI for high-voltage lithium metal battery

Researchers developed a conjugated phthalocyanine framework with enhanced electron-withdrawal properties and flexibility, leading to improved capacities, rate capabilities, and cyclic stability in high-voltage lithium metal batteries. The framework also showed longer operating life and higher capacity retention.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2025
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

A greener, cleaner way to extract cobalt from ‘junk’ materials

A new method developed by Penn researchers uses a chemical-separation technique to extract cobalt from 'junk' materials, increasing the capacity for purified cobalt production with minimal environmental harm. The process avoids harsh chemicals and generates lower costs than traditional methods.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalChem·DateDec 10, 2024
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.

Novel magnetic field integration enhances green hydrogen peroxide production

Researchers developed a novel catalyst with integrated magnetic field, achieving 90% H2O2 production efficiency and significantly enhancing the reaction's performance. The new approach requires minimal amounts of magnetic materials, making it safer and more practical for large-scale applications.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 15, 2024

Cobalt-copper tandem converts carbon dioxide to ethanol

A team of scientists at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz has developed an electrocatalytic conversion technique that converts carbon dioxide into ethanol. The cobalt-copper tandem system achieves selective conversion with an 80% yield, opening up a sustainable method for chemical applications and food conservation.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalACS Catalysis·DateNov 3, 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.

Mechanism of cobalt-manganese catalysts deciphered

Researchers deciphered the role of manganese in cobalt-manganese catalysts, which have a high activity and stability over time. The catalysts' surface transforms during the reaction, with manganese dissolving and redepositing, leading to improved performance.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateOct 16, 2024

BESSY II: Heterostructures for spintronics

A Spanish-German team has shown that the ferromagnetic element cobalt significantly enhances spin textures in graphene-iridium hybrids. The samples were grown on insulating substrates, which is a necessary prerequisite for multifunctional spintronic devices exploiting these effects.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2024

The mechanisms behind cobalt x-ide electrocatalysts

Researchers discovered Co3O4 as the most effective cobalt oxide electrocatalyst for quinoline hydrogenation, achieving high conversion rates under ambient conditions. This study advances understanding of catalytic mechanisms in the process, which has significant implications for pharmaceutical and petrochemical industries.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 11, 2024

Nanotubes get a boost: Liquid-phase synthesis unlock efficient production

A new method in liquid-phase synthesis could reshape the scalable production of single-walled carbon nanotubes, enhancing industrial feasibility and reducing costs. The Co catalyst substantially improves both the yield and structural integrity of SWCNTs during the process, leading to more consistent results.

SourceMeijo University·JournalJournal of Nanoparticle Research·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 27, 2024
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Insights into spinel cobalt oxides may lead to efficient ammonia synthesis

Researchers have developed catalysts that achieve high ammonia Faradaic efficiency and yield rate, transforming nitrate into valuable ammonia. The study's findings provide insights into structural changes on spinel cobalt oxides, enabling more efficient and sustainable industrial processes.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 27, 2024

Disorder improves battery life

A team of international researchers, led by TU Delft, found that introducing chemical short-range disorder into layered oxide materials used as cathode materials can significantly improve the stability and performance of lithium-ion batteries. This improvement results in a longer cycle life and shorter charging times for well-establish...

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalNature·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateMay 8, 2024

A new vibrant blue pottery pigment with less cobalt

Scientists have created a vibrant blue pottery pigment using less cobalt, which retains high temperature stability and chemical resistance. The new pigment, derived from barium aluminosilicate, substantially reduces the need for cobalt ions, making it a more affordable and accessible option.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Optical Materials·DateFeb 22, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Cobalt-free electrodes achieved with nickel ions

Scientists at Yokohama National University have created a new type of lithium-ion battery using nickel ions, which can be used in electric vehicles without the need for cobalt. The material overcomes key stability issues by suppressing nickel-ion migration and achieving consistent reversibility.

SourceYokohama National University·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·DateFeb 20, 2024

Study shows that Rio Grande Rise was once a giant mineral-rich tropical island near Brazil

Researchers at the University of São Paulo found evidence of a tropical island with rich mineral deposits, including cobalt and nickel, in the South Atlantic Ocean. The team's analysis of seafloor sediment samples suggests the area was once home to vegetation and had volcanic activity between 30-40 million years ago.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 1, 2024

BESSY II: Local variations in the atomic structure of High-Entropy Alloys

A new study at BESSY II has provided deeper insights into the ordering processes and diffusion phenomena in High-Entropy Alloys. The team analysed samples of a Cantor alloy, revealing local atomic structures using element-specific EXAFS and Reverse Monte Carlo analysis.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNano Research·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2024
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.

Efficiently moving urea out of polluted water is coming to reality

Researchers at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have developed a material to selectively oxidize urea in water, producing hydrogen gas. The material, made of nickel and cobalt atoms with tailored electronic structures, enables the efficient conversion of urea into hydrogen through an electrochemical reaction.

SourceWorcester Polytechnic Institute·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2024

Cobalt-free batteries could power cars of the future

MIT researchers have developed a cobalt-free battery material that offers improved sustainability and comparable performance to traditional lithium-ion batteries. The new organic material can conduct electricity at similar rates, store capacity, and be charged faster than cobalt-containing batteries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Central Science·DateJan 18, 2024

Revolutionary breakthrough in nitrile activation unveils promising pathway for anticancer precursor synthesis

Researchers have developed a novel method to produce a selective anticancer precursor substance. The synthesis involves the reaction of metal-active oxygen species with nitrile, utilizing cost-effective metals at lower temperatures. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities in developing innovative drugs against cancer.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalJACS Au·DateDec 28, 2023
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.

Resource-efficient and climate-friendly with sodium-ion batteries

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology found that sodium-ion batteries have an equivalent climate impact as lithium-ion batteries without the risk of raw material depletion. They identified potential measures to further reduce climate impact, such as developing environmentally better electrolytes.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalJournal of Industrial Ecology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 13, 2023

Study on battery recycling shows China is in 1st place

A study by researchers from the University of Münster found that China will be able to meet its demand for primary lithium for electric vehicles through recycling as early as 2059, while Europe and the US will not achieve this until after 2070. Recycling is also expected to ensure China's need for cobalt by 2045 and nickel by 2046.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalResources Conservation and Recycling·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 8, 2023

Biomaterial developed at São Paulo State University proves capable of accelerating bone regeneration

Researchers at São Paulo State University developed a novel biomaterial that speeds up osteoblast differentiation, mimicking a low-oxygen environment. The cobalt-doped calcium phosphate material has the potential to be used in future bone regeneration procedures, reducing surgery risks and hospital stays.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalJournal of Biomedical Materials Research·DateNov 21, 2023
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.

The little things matter: Chemists develop new sensor for microvolume pH detection

Researchers at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University have developed a sensitive and robust pH sensor that can detect pH variation in just a few microliters of samples. The new sensor uses novel materials and methods to overcome the current method's limitations, which are not sensitive enough or fragile for commercial-scale use.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalMicrochimica Acta·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 3, 2023

Cathode active materials for lithium-ion batteries could be produced at low temperatures

A team of researchers at Hokkaido University has developed a new method to synthesize layered lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) at low temperatures, reducing synthesis time from hours to minutes. The hydroflux process produces crystalline LiCoO2 with properties only marginally inferior to commercially available materials.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalInorganic Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2023

Cobalt-free battery for cleaner, greener power

Researchers from the University of Tokyo have developed a cobalt-free battery alternative that outperforms state-of-the-art battery chemistry. The new lithium-ion batteries boast a 60% higher energy density and can withstand over 1,000 recharge cycles, reducing environmental concerns.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2023

New recipe for efficient, environmentally friendly battery recycling

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new method for recycling metals from spent electric car batteries using oxalic acid. The method allows for the recovery of 100% of aluminum and 98% of lithium, minimizing waste and utilizing an environmentally friendly ingredient.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalSeparation and Purification Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 17, 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.

Large swings in past ocean oxygen revealed

Scientists have found evidence of past oxygen loss in the world's oceans during glacial periods, indicating that current climate change may not be permanent. The discovery was made by analyzing seafloor sediments from the past 145,000 years, which showed a build-up of cobalt during the last ice age.

SourceUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·TypeContent analysis·DateOct 11, 2023

It's easier to get valuable metals from battery waste if you ‘flash’ it

Researchers at Rice University have developed a high-yield, low-cost method for reclaiming metals directly from mixed battery waste. The new process uses the 'flash' technique to separate critical metals, reducing energy and acid consumption by up to 100-fold and lowering carbon dioxide emissions.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2023

Spintronics: X-ray microscopy unravels the nature of domain walls

A new study at BESSY II analyzed the formation of skyrmions in ferrimagnetic thin films of dysprosium and cobalt. The researchers directly observed Néel-type skyrmions using scanning transmission X-ray microscopy, revealing their domain wall type for the first time.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalCommunications Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 28, 2023
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.

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Team finds major storage capacity in water-based batteries

Texas A&M researchers have found a significant increase in energy storage capacity of water-based battery electrodes, paving the way for safer and more stable batteries. The discovery could provide an alternative to lithium-ion batteries, which are facing material shortages and price increases.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Materials·DateApr 3, 2023

Solid-state thermal transistor demonstrated

A research team at Hokkaido University has created a stable and effective solid-state electrochemical thermal transistor that can control heat flow with electrical signals. The device outperforms current liquid-state thermal transistors in terms of stability and efficiency.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2023

Electrocatalysis – Iron and Cobalt Oxyhydroxides examined at BESSY II

Scientists at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin examined the chemistry of Cobalt-Iron Oxyhydroxides using X-ray absorption spectroscopy. They discovered that iron is present in higher oxidation states than previously thought, which could lead to improved electrocatalysts for water splitting and carbon dioxide reduction.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2023
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

This new, more sustainable method for recycling lithium-ion batteries could help meet electric vehicle demand

Researchers at University of Toronto Engineering use supercritical carbon dioxide to recover lithium, cobalt, nickel and manganese from end-of-life lithium-ion batteries. The process matches conventional extraction efficiency while using fewer chemicals and generating less secondary waste.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalResources Conservation and Recycling·DateOct 5, 2022