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Lego-like chemical building blocks self-assemble into catalyst for hydrogen fuel cells

Researchers have designed a new material that uses self-assembly to create an efficient catalyst for hydrogen fuel cells. The catalyst is made from a combination of cobalt and ruthenium molecules that assemble themselves into the desired structure, allowing for large-scale production at a lower cost than current platinum-based catalysts.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateMay 31, 2018

New technology could wean the battery world off cobalt

Researchers at UC Berkeley have developed a new technology that uses manganese instead of cobalt to increase lithium-ion battery capacity. This breakthrough could reduce the world's reliance on cobalt, which is mined by hand and has raised concerns about child labor.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·DateApr 11, 2018

Scenario 2050: Lithium and cobalt might not suffice

Researchers warn of critical shortages of lithium and cobalt in the future, with post-lithium technologies like sodium-ion batteries offering alternatives. Upscaling production and recycling are key to reducing pressure on these resources.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Reviews Materials·DateMar 14, 2018
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.

Recycling and reusing worn cathodes to make new lithium ion batteries

A new recycling method restores used cathode particles from spent lithium ion batteries, restoring charge storage capacity, charging time, and battery lifetime. The process reduces energy consumption compared to other methods and aims to address environmental concerns and economic issues related to battery waste.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateJan 25, 2018

New metal-semiconductor interface for brain-inspired computing

Researchers at the University of Groningen have developed a new metal-semiconductor interface that combines storage, memory and processing in one unit, paving the way for brain-inspired computing architectures. The device uses a spin-memristor with tunability, enabling non-volatile storage and operation at room temperature.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 22, 2018

Electrode materials from the microwave oven

Researchers have developed a novel microwave synthesis process that facilitates the production of high-voltage cathodes for lithium-ion batteries. The new process produces high-quality lithium cobalt phosphate in just 30 minutes with minimal energy consumption.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalInorganic Chemistry·DateOct 18, 2017
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Analysis: Metal supplies unlikely to seriously hamper battery use

A new analysis suggests that metal shortages will not significantly impact battery production, but short-term bottlenecks in lithium and cobalt supplies are possible. Researchers recommend monitoring supply chains to avoid disruptions and exploring alternative materials.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJoule·DateOct 11, 2017

Fast magnetic writing of data

Researchers at ETH Zurich have successfully developed a novel method to rapidly and efficiently write data onto magnetic carriers using a spin-orbit-torque technique. The technique involves the application of electric current pulses through an adjacent wire, which causes magnetization inversion without the need for coils.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 7, 2017
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.

Chemical 'dance' of cobalt catalysis could pave way to solar fuels

Researchers have discovered a crucial step in the water-splitting process, enabling the creation of clean solar fuels. The study reveals the characteristics of cobalt catalysts and their role in facilitating the formation of oxygen-oxygen bonds.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 2, 2017

How to recycle lithium batteries

Researchers have developed a hydrometallurgical method to recycle lithium batteries, recovering cobalt and lithium with reasonable efficiency. The process involves calcination, acid treatment, and leaching, resulting in useful extraction rates for the metals.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Energy Technology and Policy·DateFeb 7, 2017

Three magnetic states for each hole

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf have developed cobalt grids that can be reliably programmed at room temperature. Three distinct magnetic states, denoted as G, C, and Q, were found around each hole in the grid. This discovery could lead to more efficient computing using spin-waves instead of electric current.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 2, 2017
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Seven substances added to 14th Report on Carcinogens

The 14th Report on Carcinogens adds seven new substances to the list, including five viruses that have been linked to cancer in humans. Trichloroethylene, cobalt compounds, HIV-1, HTLV-1, EBV, KSHV, and MCV are among the newly listed substances, highlighting the importance of prevention strategies to reduce the world's cancer burden.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·DateNov 3, 2016

Fungi recycle rechargeable lithium-ion batteries

Researchers are using naturally occurring fungi to extract valuable materials from waste batteries, including cobalt and lithium. The process uses oxalic acid and citric acid generated by the fungi to leach out the metals, with results showing up to 85% lithium and 48% cobalt extraction.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·DateAug 21, 2016

The switch that could double USB memory

Researchers created a new method to switch strontium cobalt oxide between an insulating state and a metal magnet state at room temperature, enabling double the storage capacity of conventional USB flash drives. This technology could increase mobile phone storage by storing more photos and videos.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·DateJun 30, 2016

Hip implants -- metal wear impairs bone-forming cells' function

Researchers found that metal ions released by cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys impair mesenchymal stromal cells' ability to differentiate into osteoblasts. This can lead to premature bone loss and revision surgery. The study's findings highlight the need for improved implant design and composition to optimize patient safety.

SourceCharité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin·JournalBiomaterials·DateJun 22, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Rice news release: Cobalt atoms on graphene a powerful combo

Researchers at Rice University have created a novel, solid-state catalyst that splits water into hydrogen and oxygen, promising lower-cost alternatives to expensive platinum catalysts. The catalyst, made from nitrogen-doped graphene and cobalt atoms, shows high efficiency and durability in generating clean energy.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 21, 2015

Discovery of a highly efficient catalyst eases way to hydrogen economy

A team of researchers at the University of Wisconsin-Madison has discovered a highly efficient catalyst that can produce hydrogen using common elements like phosphorus and sulfur. The new catalyst, which is nearly as efficient as platinum, could make a significant impact on the transition to a hydrogen economy.

SourceUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 14, 2015

Spintronics: Molecules stabilizing magnetism

Researchers have discovered a way to control magnetism using organic molecules, potentially leading to more efficient and cost-effective storage technologies. The study found that three molecular layers of phtalocynine can stabilize the magnetic orientation of cobalt surfaces, even in the presence of external magnetic fields or cooling.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 23, 2015

Emergence of a 'devil's staircase' in a spin-valve system

Researchers discovered a 'devil's staircase' effect in a cobalt oxide spin-valve system, allowing for infinite superstructures with tunable magnetic configurations. This finding may lead to new options in spintronics, enabling more efficient data storage and processing.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJul 1, 2015
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.

Racehorses at risk from misuse of cobalt, new study finds

A new study by the University of Surrey warns that excessive cobalt levels can cause severe side effects in horses, including long-term damage to vital organs. The researchers urge trainers to be aware of the dangers of cobalt misuse, as there is no evidence to suggest it enhances athletic performance.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalThe Veterinary Journal·DateJun 18, 2015

Putting 2 and 2 together

The new cobalt-catalyzed [2π+2π] reaction overcomes limitations of other transition metal catalyzed methods, producing cyclobutane compounds with potentially beneficial properties. The research team used redox active bis(imino)pyridine ligands to pass electrons to and from the metal, leading to a detailed understanding of the mechanism.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 8, 2015

Cobalt film a clean-fuel find

Researchers at Rice University have discovered a cobalt-based thin film that can produce both hydrogen and oxygen from water to feed fuel cells. The film is highly porous, inexpensive, and scalable, making it a potential alternative to expensive metals like platinum in water-electrolysis devices.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 15, 2015

Astrophysicists report radioactive cobalt in supernova explosion

A group of Russian astrophysicists have detected the formation of radioactive cobalt during a supernova explosion, confirming a corresponding theory. The discovery was made using data from the INTEGRAL gamma-ray orbital telescope and indicates that about 60% of the Sun's mass was emitted as radioactive cobalt.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalNature·DateAug 29, 2014
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.

Evolution of a bimetallic nanocatalyst

Researchers used in situ TEM to study the evolution of platinum/cobalt nanoparticles during reactions in oxygen and hydrogen gases. They found that cobalt atoms migrate to form a cobalt oxide epitaxial film, which affects catalytic performance.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 6, 2014

Controlling thermal conductivities can improve energy storage

Scientists have developed a way to modulate the thermal conductivity of lithium cobalt oxide, a key material for rechargeable batteries. This breakthrough enables dynamic control of heat evolution and dissipation, leading to improved performance and safety.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 3, 2014

Exploring the magnetism of a single atom

The team developed a method to measure the energy needed to change magnetic anisotropy in a single Cobalt atom, revealing its maximum magnetic anisotropy energy and longest spin lifetime. This breakthrough presents a single-atom model system that can be used as a future qubit for quantum computing.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalScience·DateMay 8, 2014

Every step you take

Researchers have identified two intermediate steps in water oxidation reactions using an Earth-abundant solid catalyst, cobalt oxide. This discovery provides a better understanding of the individual events in the four-electron cycle and enables the design of improvements to boost efficiency.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 3, 2014

Cobalt intoxication diagnosed with the help of Dr. House

A patient's symptoms were linked to cobalt poisoning after a doctor used a TV show as a teaching tool to diagnose a rare disease. The patient had undergone a metal hip replacement, leading to severe heart failure and other symptoms that were eventually resolved with a new ceramic prosthesis.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateFeb 6, 2014
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Argonne scientists discover new pathway for artificial photosynthesis

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have found a more efficient way to link a synthetic cobalt-containing catalyst to an organic light-sensitive molecule, increasing hydrogen generation from sunlight and water. The discovery uses a new mechanism that allows the reaction to continue significantly longer.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateJan 14, 2014

Researchers split water into hydrogen, oxygen using light, nanoparticles

Researchers from the University of Houston have discovered a catalyst that can quickly generate hydrogen from water using sunlight, producing twice as much hydrogen as oxygen. The technology has potential as a clean and renewable source of energy, but its efficiency rate is still too low to be commercially viable at present.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 15, 2013

Magnetic switching simplified

Researchers have discovered a new effect that enables easier production of spin-polarized currents necessary for magnetic chip switching. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient and robust magnetic Random Access Memories (MRAMs) for information processing.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateAug 7, 2013

Cobalt replacements make solar cells more sustainable

Researchers at the University of Basel have successfully replaced iodine in copper-based dye-sensitized solar cells with cobalt, increasing sustainability and improving long-term stability. This breakthrough uses a systems chemistry approach to optimize molecular components, paving the way for environmentally friendly energy production.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalChemical Communications·DateAug 2, 2013
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

3D microchip created

Researchers at the University of Cambridge have developed a new type of microchip that allows information to travel in three dimensions. The innovation uses spintronic technology and enables additional storage capacity on chips by spreading data across multiple layers.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature·DateJan 30, 2013

New method of producing nanomagnets for information technology

Researchers have developed a new method to produce molecular magnets, which could lead to the creation of smaller, more efficient storage media and processors. The new system exploits the interactions between molecules and their substrate, enabling magnetic states to be selectively switched on and off using magnetic fields.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature·DateJan 23, 2013

Showing the way to improved water-splitting catalysts

Researchers at Caltech have determined the dominant mechanism of cobalt catalysts, which involves a key reactive intermediate gaining an extra electron. This finding illuminates the road to developing better catalysts and suggests a route to creating extremely active iron catalysts.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 4, 2012
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.

Physicists capture first images of atomic spin

Researchers at Ohio University and the University of Hamburg captured the first images of atomic spin in a study published in Nature Nanotechnology. The discovery enables manipulation of spin direction to store data in nanoscale devices, potentially leading to faster, smaller, and more efficient computers.

SourceOhio University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 26, 2010

Shape matters in the case of cobalt nanoparticles

New studies by NIST scientists show that changing the shape of cobalt nanoparticles from spherical to cubic fundamentally changes their behavior. The research reveals distinct differences in how these particles interact under external magnetic fields and when exposed to heat.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalJournal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials·DateJun 17, 2009

Nanophysicists find unexpected magnetic effect

Researchers found that the last atom in a line of single-atom contacts behaves differently than expected, altering the defining properties of ferromagnetic metals. The Kondo effect is observed in these tiny contacts, contradicting conventional wisdom about metal behavior at the nanoscale.

SourceRice University·JournalNature·DateApr 29, 2009
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.

Turning sunlight into liquid fuels

Researchers have created a nano-sized cobalt oxide photocatalyst that can effectively split water molecules, a critical step towards producing liquid fuels from carbon dioxide and water. The clusters are sufficiently efficient and fast, making them suitable for artificial photosynthesis.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateMar 10, 2009

New hybrid nanostructures detect nanoscale magnetism

Scientists at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute developed a method to detect magnetic behaviors of nanomaterials using single carbon nanotubes. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in spintronics, digital storage devices, and selective drug delivery components.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 8, 2008

Do the hyper-coordinate planar transition metal atoms exist?

Researchers have discovered wheel-shaped structures with octa- and enneacoordinate planar cobalt, iron and nickel centered in perfect octagonal and enneagonal boron rings. The stability of these structures is attributed to the contribution from two kinds of orbitals, resulting in aromaticity with six delocalized p electrons.

SourceScience China Press·DateJul 1, 2008

Physicists pin down spin of surface atoms

UC Berkeley physicists have successfully measured the spin of an individual atom on a surface, a key achievement for both quantum computing and spintronics. By employing low-temperature spin-polarized scanning tunneling spectroscopy, researchers were able to determine the spin of isolated adatoms atop cobalt nanoislands.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 12, 2007
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.

Changing the rings: a key finding for magnetics design

The study identifies dominant damping mechanisms in iron, cobalt, and nickel, pointing to improved material design techniques. This discovery enhances the prediction of magnetic materials' dynamics, crucial for high-performance electronic devices.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateAug 3, 2007

Delicate relation between single spins

Researchers access interaction between single magnetic adatoms on a metal surface by comparing experimental results with detailed theoretical analysis. They observe novel magnetic state for chain of three cobalt adatoms and improve understanding of fundamental interactions between single spins.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 2, 2007

Peanut-shaped nanostructures

Japanese scientists produce peanut-shaped nanoparticles comprising two different sulfur-containing substances, palladium sulfide and cobalt sulfide. The unique structure gives rise to different physical and chemical properties.

SourceWiley·DateFeb 22, 2007

Prussian Blue for information storage

Researchers created a compound that can switch between magnetic states upon light exposure, enabling binary information storage on an atomic scale. This breakthrough could lead to the development of ultra-small data storage devices for future computers.

SourceCNRS·DateJan 17, 2007
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

How to herd atoms

Physicists at the Max Planck Institute have discovered a way to arrange randomly deposited atoms in regular patterns, mimicking the behavior of sheep in a pen. By adjusting substrate temperature and parameters, they created circular fencing that guides adatoms into ordered structures.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 4, 2006

Physicists trap, map tiny magnetic vortex

Researchers at Rice University have decoded the three-dimensional structure of a tornado-like magnetic vortex no larger than a red blood cell. The discovery could lead to breakthroughs in ultra-high-density hard drive storage and non-volatile memory.

SourceRice University·DateSep 7, 2006

NIST scientists use electron beam to unravel the secrets of an 'atomic switch'

Scientists at NIST have developed a technique to move a single atom between two positions on a crystal surface using an electron beam. The method improved our understanding of the science behind atomic switching and allows for spatial mapping of the probability of an electron exciting the desired atom motion.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience·DateAug 17, 2006
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Pigment formulated 225 years ago could be key in emerging technologies

Researchers at the University of Washington have developed a material that can operate at room temperature, allowing for the manipulation of electrons' magnetism. This breakthrough has the potential to create broad new capabilities for computers and digital devices, including reduced power consumption.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 2, 2006

MIT researchers build tiny batteries with viruses

The MIT team used an intricate assembly process to create a functional electronic device from viruses, producing dense films of cobalt oxide and gold. The result is a nanoscale battery material with high energy density, suitable for compact energy storage applications.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateApr 6, 2006

Magnetism shepherds microlenses to excavate 'nanocavities'

Duke University researchers have developed a technique using ferrofluids and magnetic traps to create 'nanocavities' that can be used as chemical detectors or for data storage. The team uses magnetics to manipulate microstructures, allowing for complex patterns to be assembled.

SourceDuke University·DateMar 30, 2006
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.

Air in Fallon, Nev. has elevated levels of tungsten and cobalt

Researchers found elevated tungsten and cobalt levels in Fallon's air, differing from nearby towns. The findings suggest a possible environmental cause for childhood leukemia cases in the area, prompting further research to examine the relationship between these metals and cancer development.

SourceUniversity of Arizona·JournalApplied Geochemistry·DateNov 17, 2005

Magnetic nanoparticles assembled into long chains

Researchers at NIST have successfully assembled and disassembled long chains of magnetic nanoparticles, offering potential applications in medical imaging and information storage. The chains are formed using a weak magnetic field, which induces alignment of the nanoparticles and allows for controlled manipulation.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalLangmuir·DateOct 20, 2005

Physicists describe a new mechanism for metallic magnetism

Researchers develop kinetic antiferromagnetism, solving decades-long problem in theoretical physics. The discovery has practical applications in superconductors, magnetic storage devices, and other areas of materials science.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Cruz·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 25, 2005
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.

Scientists tame 'hip hop' atoms

Researchers use custom-built microscope to manipulate cobalt atoms on a copper lattice, observing and controlling atomic motion. The 'hip hop' sound effect is generated by converting electronic signals into audio, allowing real-time monitoring of atom position.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience·DateSep 14, 2004