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BESSY II: Localization of d electrons in transition metals determined

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin used Auger photo-electron coincidence spectroscopy to study the occupation of outer d-orbital shells in copper, nickel, and cobalt. The results confirm known findings for copper and nickel, but reveal highly delocalized d electrons in cobalt.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 2, 2022

Carbon-neutralizing propylene production catalyzes change in petrochemical engineering

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a new catalyst that uses carbon dioxide to produce propylene more efficiently than existing methods. The catalyst also captures and converts carbon dioxide into useful resources. This breakthrough contributes to the carbon neutralization of the petrochemical industry.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 26, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Ocean scientists measure sediment plume stirred up by deep-sea-mining vehicle

A new field study reveals a previously unobserved fluid dynamic process that affects the ocean's deep-sea mining operations. Researchers equipped a pre-prototype collector vehicle with instruments to monitor its sediment plume disturbances, finding that the plumes remained relatively low and spread under their own weight.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 21, 2022

Three strikes and acid is out

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new protocol for synthesizing dialkyl ethers using three catalysts that hydroxylate alkenes quickly and cheaply. This method enables the precise control of electrons and protons to convert unactivated alkenes into reactive carbocation equivalents under mild reaction conditions.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2022

Efficient, stable, and eco-friendly thermoelectric material discovered

A team of researchers at Hokkaido University has developed a barium cobalt oxide thermoelectric converter that is reproducibly stable and efficient at temperatures as high as 600°C. This breakthrough material shows promise for wide deployment in high-temperature thermoelectric conversion devices.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 12, 2022

Chemists design chemical probe for detecting minute temperature shifts in the body

Researchers at Colorado State University have developed a cobalt-based molecule that can detect extremely subtle temperature shifts inside the body, opening up new possibilities for medical imaging and therapy. The noninvasive probe uses radiofrequency waves to read out temperature signals from the body.

SourceColorado State University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2022
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.

Chemists’ HAT trick for greener chemical synthesis

Researchers have found a way to perform hydrogen atom transfer reactions with fewer chemicals and less cost, making it more efficient for industrial and academic settings. The new method uses electrochemistry to create cobalt hydride catalysts, reducing the need for expensive oxidants and reductants.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 25, 2022

Skyrmions on the rise – new 2D material advances low-power computing

Researchers have discovered layered 2D materials that can host unique magnetic features, including skyrmions, which remain stable at room temperature. The discovery could lead to novel low-energy data storage and information processing systems.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2022

New, highly efficient catalyst for propylene production

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a novel catalyst that significantly improves the efficiency of propylene production. The catalyst utilizes carbon dioxide efficiently and exhibits high selectivity, stability, and long-term reusability.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 27, 2022

Selective separation could help alleviate critical metals shortage

Researchers at MIT developed a selective separation process using sulfidation to target rare metals like cobalt in lithium-ion batteries. The approach reduces energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional liquid-based separation methods.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateDec 17, 2021
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.

Understanding cobalt’s human cost

Researchers studying cobalt mining in the DRC found associations with violence, substance abuse, and health challenges. The study highlights the need for social life cycle assessments to understand emerging technologies' impact on human well-being.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalOne Earth·TypeCase study·DateDec 17, 2021

Ultrasound can enable faster, more sustainable battery recycling

Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology developed an ultrasound-assisted extraction method for valuable metals from electric car batteries, reducing extraction time by 50% and increasing metal ion recovery. The new process uses gentler acids and eliminates the need for harsh chemicals.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalGreen Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021

'Mini Psyches' give insights into mysterious metal-rich near-earth asteroids

A study of metal-rich asteroids has found that they have surfaces with 85% metal such as iron and nickel, similar to stony-iron meteorites. The research also identified four possible asteroid families in the main asteroid belt, which may hold clues about their origins.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·TypeImaging analysis·DateOct 1, 2021
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.

Main attraction: Scientists create world's thinnest magnet

Researchers at the Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory developed an ultrathin magnet that operates at room temperature, enabling high-density, compact spintronic memory devices and new tools for studying quantum physics. The discovery makes a significant breakthrough in creating 2D magnetic materials.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 20, 2021

Singlet oxygen selectively degrades oxytetracycline in fenton-like oxidation

Researchers developed hollow amorphous Co/C composites to activate hydrogen peroxide, generating singlet oxygen that selectively eliminates oxytetracycline in complicated water matrices. The system exhibited excellent repeatability, stability, and anti-interference ability.

SourceHefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateJul 6, 2021

How to make lithium-ion batteries invincible

Berkeley Lab scientists have developed a new class of materials called DRX, which can replace cobalt and nickel in lithium-ion batteries. These cathode materials offer higher energy density and can be made with inexpensive and abundant metals like manganese and titanium.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateJun 23, 2021
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.

Battery parts can be recycled without crushing or melting

Researchers at Aalto University have discovered a new recycling method for lithium-ion batteries that replenishes spent lithium in electrodes without crushing or melting. This process saves valuable raw materials and likely energy compared to traditional methods, which extract metals from crushed batteries by melting or dissolving them.

SourceAalto University·JournalChemSusChem·DateApr 29, 2021

For highly active, sustainable catalysts, just add phosphorus

Osaka University researchers have developed an air-stable and highly active single-crystal cobalt phosphide nanorod catalyst for the reductive amination of carbonyl compounds. The catalyst overcomes limitations of conventional cobalt catalysts, retaining high activity after multiple uses.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJACS Au·DateApr 7, 2021

Inexpensive tin packs a big punch for the future of supercapacitors

Researchers have created a more powerful, fast-charging supercapacitor with improved connectivity and recyclability using affordable tin. The material enhances the properties of cobalt oxide-based electrodes, leading to increased conductivity and promising practical applications.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMar 17, 2021

How 'Iron Man' bacteria could help protect the environment

Researchers found Geobacter bacteria can coat themselves with cobalt nanoparticles, protecting them from toxic metal. This discovery opens doors to biotechnology applications in reclaiming and recycling cobalt from lithium-ion batteries, reducing dependence on foreign mines.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateJan 8, 2021
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.

Researchers question fundamental study on the Kondo effect

Scientists from Jülich researchers found an alternative cause for the dip in energy spectrum attributed to the Kondo effect. They propose new experiments based on their predictions, suggesting that much of what was thought about the Kondo effect needs re-examination.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 7, 2021

Record-setting thermoelectric figure of merit achieved for metal oxides

Scientists at Hokkaido University have achieved a record-setting thermoelectric figure of merit for metal oxides, which can be used to enhance thermoelectric power generation. The material exhibits a high ZT value and stability across a range of operating temperatures.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateDec 22, 2020

Exposure to metals can impact pregnancy

A Rutgers University study found that exposure to metals like nickel, arsenic, and lead can disrupt a woman's hormones during pregnancy. This disruption may contribute to children's later health risks and disease outcomes.

SourceRutgers University·JournalEnvironment International·DateDec 21, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Surrey reveals simple method to produce high performing Lithium Selenium batteries

The Surrey team developed highly effective cathodes using single-atom catalysts and produced atomic cobalt electrocatalysts that showed superior electrochemical performance in Li-Se batteries. The batteries demonstrated a high rate capability and excellent cycling stability with minimal capacity decay over 5000 cycles.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 16, 2020

Ultrafast lasers probe elusive chemistry at the liquid-liquid interface

Researchers used ultrafast pulsed laser techniques to investigate chemical separations, tracking dynamics of molecules designed to grab cobalt from solutions. The study reveals the essential role of hydrogen bonding in developing new extraction methodologies.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateAug 4, 2020
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.

Energy storage using oxygen to boost battery performance

Researchers have developed a novel electrode material that allows for direct charging of oxygen from the air, improving lithium-oxygen battery performance. The new strategy involves stabilizing atomic-level electrocatalysts within metal-organic frameworks, resulting in reduced overpotential and increased life cycle.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJun 17, 2020

An unusual cobalt compound

A research team has discovered a novel cobalt compound with a low molecular weight, allowing it to be evaporated at high temperatures without decomposition. The compound's unique geometry enables an unusual spin configuration of ½, making it a promising candidate for ultra-thin layer applications.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 9, 2020

Nanocrystals will help detect methanol and other alcohols

Skoltech scientists developed sensitive sensors based on cobalt oxide nanoflakes to detect various alcohols, including toxic methanol. The new technology enables quick and accurate tests for safe air quality, applicable to medical diagnostics and ambient air monitoring.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMar 27, 2020
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.

New lithium batteries from used cell phones

A research project at the University of Córdoba and San Luis University in Argentina successfully manufactured new lithium batteries from used cell phones. The team recovered graphite material, eliminating impurities and reorganizing its structure for new use, making up a quarter of the total weight of a lithium battery.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalChemSusChem·DateMar 3, 2020

Hope for a new permanent magnet that's cheap and sustainable

Researchers have created a hybrid film combining cobalt and Buckminsterfullerene, boosting magnetic energy product five times at low temperatures. This breakthrough could lead to rare-earth-free magnets, mitigating environmental damage in renewable energy and consumer electronics.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalPhysical Review B·DateMar 3, 2020

Manipulating atoms to make better superconductors

Scientists have successfully manipulated individual atoms to exhibit collective behavior, a crucial step towards creating room-temperature superconductors. The study uses atomic manipulation to place cobalt atoms on copper surfaces in a perfectly ordered pattern, demonstrating the potential for higher temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 3, 2020
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Cobalt supply can meet demand for electric vehicle and electronics batteries

The study found that cobalt supply is adequate in the short term, but could be affected by refining and recycling. The researchers recommend increasing efficient capacity to meet growing demand from consumer electronics and electric vehicles. By 2030, the team estimates cobalt demand will reach 235-430 thousand metric tons.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 19, 2020

Catching light: How cobalt can help utilize visible light to power hydrogen production from water

Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology have created a visible-light photoelectrochemical system using cobalt-enhanced TiO2. The process enables efficient water oxidation, producing hydrogen as a clean alternative fuel. Cobalt domains on the surface enhance light absorption and catalytic sites facilitate water oxidation.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateFeb 18, 2020

Study finds first major discovery in hydroformylation in 50 years

Researchers at Louisiana State University have developed a new cationic cobalt bisphosphine hydroformylation catalyst system that is highly active and extremely robust. The discovery has the potential to replace rhodium-based catalysts, which are currently expensive and in short supply.

SourceLouisiana State University·JournalScience·DateJan 31, 2020

Will the future's super batteries be made of seawater?

Researchers are exploring seawater-based Na-ion batteries as a potential alternative to lithium ion batteries. A new study investigated electrode materials that increase voltage, capacity, and wattage. The development of these batteries could alleviate concerns around cobalt mining and reduce costs.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateJan 23, 2020
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.

A new 'cool' blue

Researchers developed a new class of 'cool' blue pigments that are inexpensive, durable, and more environmentally friendly than traditional cobalt blue. The pigments, inspired by the crystalline structure of hibonite, show a range of intense blue colors and reflect near-infrared light.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Omega·DateJan 15, 2020

Atomic tuning on cobalt enables an eightfold increase of H2O2 production

Researchers have developed a new cobalt-based catalyst that enables an eightfold increase in hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production, a major electronic cleaning chemical. The catalyst, Co1-NG(O), is highly stable and efficient, producing up to 8 times more H2O2 than existing noble metal-based electrocatalysts.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 13, 2020
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Electric car research boosted by cobalt-free battery

Researchers at UT Austin aim to develop a lithium-ion battery that requires no cobalt while maintaining high energy density. A $3 million collaborative project funded by the US Department of Energy seeks to demonstrate low-cobalt battery technology in large cells and create a cobalt-free battery.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateJul 30, 2019

Transforming waste heat into clean energy

Scientists have been exploring new materials to harness thermoelectric power from waste heat, with researchers at the University of Texas using supercomputers to optimize material configurations. The team has made promising initial findings, showing that certain cobalt oxides can convert heat into electricity.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·DateMay 1, 2019
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Scientists pioneer new low-temperature chemical conversion process

Scientists have identified a way to convert cyclohexane to useful products at lower temperatures, reducing the need for energy and minimizing unwanted byproducts. The new catalysts work at temperatures as low as 100°C, protecting intermediate products from further conversion.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 3, 2019

New 'blue-green' solution for recycling world's batteries

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new method for recycling spent lithium-ion batteries using an environmentally friendly deep eutectic solvent. The solvent successfully extracted over 90% of cobalt and significant amounts of lithium from powdered compounds and used batteries, making it a promising approach to curtail hars...

SourceRice University·JournalNature Energy·DateApr 1, 2019

Powerful X-ray beams unlock secrets of nanoscale crystal formation

A new technique allows continuous study of cobalt nanoparticles as they grow, producing 'nanometric phase diagrams' showing the conditions that control their structure. This method has potential applications for other materials, including alloys and oxides.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 7, 2019
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Earth's cobalt deposits formed much later than previously believed

A new dating technique has pushed the formation of Earth's cobalt deposits back by 100-150 million years, according to a University of Alberta study. This revised timeline offers a fresh perspective on the global distribution of cobalt and its potential for sustainable exploration and mining.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalScientific Reports·DateDec 12, 2018

Scientists reveal the hidden costs of cobalt mining in DR Congo

A new study by KU Leuven reveals the hidden costs of cobalt mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo, including high levels of cobalt in children's urine and increased DNA damage. The research highlights the need for sustainable cobalt mining practices to mitigate environmental and health impacts.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalNature Sustainability·DateSep 20, 2018

Methane to syngas catalyst: two for the price of one

Hokkaido University researchers have created an improved catalyst for the conversion of methane gas into syngas, overcoming challenges faced by previous studies. The new catalyst successfully generates syngas at a lower temperature than conventional methods, making it more efficient and cost-effective.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalCommunications Chemistry·DateSep 4, 2018
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.

Modern alchemists are making chemistry greener

Researchers at Princeton University have found a revolutionary approach using cobalt and methanol to produce an epilepsy drug, replacing toxic rhodium and dichloromethane. The new reaction is faster, cheaper, and more environmentally friendly, offering distinct advantages over traditional methods.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateJun 14, 2018