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PolyU research achieves record efficiency in semi-transparent solar cells, advancing the development of building-integrated photovoltaics

Researchers at PolyU developed an innovative parameter to evaluate photoactive materials for ST-OPVs, advancing high-performance devices with low-cost production and environmental sustainability. Record light utilisation efficiency of 6.05% was achieved in semi-transparent solar cells.

SourceThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 23, 2025

New microscope reveals heat flow in materials for green energy

Scientists have developed a new microscope that accurately measures directional heat flow in materials. This advancement can lead to better designs for electronic devices and energy systems, with potential applications in faster computers, more efficient solar panels, and batteries.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalScience Advances·DateMay 8, 2025
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Reality check on our approach to saving Nemo’s home

A recent study found that coral reef restoration efforts are hindered by small-scale programs, high costs, and targeting already compromised reefs. The researchers argue that scaling up restoration efforts is unlikely to offset climate change-driven losses, and suggest bolstering ecosystem resilience through complementary strategies.

SourceFlinders University·JournalNature Ecology & Evolution·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 8, 2025

Mosquito pain receptors are less sensitive during extreme heat

A new study found that higher temperatures reduce the effectiveness of natural mosquito repellents by desensitizing their pain receptors. This means mosquitoes may find these substances less irritating in hotter weather, potentially leading to increased bites and disease transmission.

SourceOhio State University·JournalPesticide Biochemistry and Physiology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 12, 2025

Making soybeans smarter

Researchers are developing soybeans that can handle extreme weather conditions, allowing farmers to maintain yields under pressure. By studying plant adaptation strategies, scientists aim to create more resilient soybean varieties.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateSep 30, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

PolyU researchers invent intelligent soft robotic clothing for automatic thermal adaptation in extreme heat

Researchers at PolyU have developed a new type of thermally-insulated and breathable soft robotic clothing that can automatically adapt to changing ambient temperatures. This innovative clothing uses soft actuators to trap a layer of air and increase thermal resistance, reducing heat stress and discomfort in high-temperature environments.

SourceThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 15, 2024

Microbes conquer the next extreme environment: Your microwave

A study found that microwaves contain a unique microbial community, comprising 747 different genera, which resembles those on solar panels and kitchen surfaces. The diversity of the microbiome varies between single-household kitchens, shared domestic spaces, and laboratory microwaves.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·DateAug 8, 2024

Korea University identifies novel inhibitor HVH-2930 showing promise in overcoming trastuzumab resistance in HER2-positive breast cancer

A novel inhibitor HVH-2930 targeting heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) demonstrates efficacy against drug-resistant breast cancer cells. It selectively downregulates HER2 signaling, crucial for breast cancer progression, without triggering the heat shock response.

SourceKorea University College of Medicine·JournalTheranostics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 25, 2024
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.

CSUFT-led team creates novel flame-retardant, smoke-suppressing, and superhydrophobic transparent bamboo for future glasses

Researchers from CSUFT have developed a novel transparent material derived from natural bamboo with three-layered flame-retardant barrier. The material exhibits excellent mechanical properties, high light transmittance, and potential applications in green flame-retardant glass and optical device applications.

SourceResearch·JournalResearch·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 12, 2024

Thermal resistance, controlled by means of electrical pulses

Scientists at CiQUS have developed a new study that modulates thermal conductivity in materials using electrical pulses. By applying appropriate voltages, researchers achieved a reversible increase or decrease in thermal conductivity, with a 20% modulation at room temperature.

SourceCenter for Research in Biological Chemistry and Molecular Materials (CiQUS)·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 8, 2024

Chinese scientists propose anti-fatigue preparation for 3D-printed titanium alloy

Researchers develop new method to fabricate anti-fatigue 3D-printed titanium alloy by regulating microstructure and defects, showing remarkably high fatigue resistance and specific strength. The study reveals potential advantages of 3D printing technology in producing structural components.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 28, 2024

PolyU researchers develop nature-inspired advanced materials to achieve 99.6% solar reflectivity

Researchers at PolyU developed a cooling ceramic with a hierarchically porous structure, inspired by the whitest beetle, to achieve high solar reflectivity and efficient light scattering. This innovation has potential energy-saving applications and is the first study on the Leidenfrost effect in passive radiative cooling materials.

SourceThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 3, 2024
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.

Myth of room temperature superconductivity in Lk-99 is shattered

Researchers have observed a first-order structural transition in the impurity phase of cuprous sulfide, providing evidence that LK-99 is non-superconducting. This finding disproves previous claims of room temperature superconductivity and has significant implications for technology.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2023

New cooling ceramic can enhance energy efficiency for the construction sector and help combat global warming—City University of Hong Kong research

Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have developed a passive radiative cooling material that achieves high-performance optical properties. The cooling ceramic reduces thermal load, provides stable cooling performance, and can be used in various building applications.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2023

PolyU scholar’s transformative work on the Leidenfrost effect wins the Falling Walls Science Breakthroughs of the Year 2023

Prof. Zuankai WANG's innovative structured thermal armour (STA) resolves the Leidenfrost effect above 1,000°C, enabling efficient liquid cooling in extreme temperatures. This breakthrough applies to aero-engines, space-engines, nuclear reactors, and electronics devices, with far-reaching implications for chemistry and beyond.

SourceThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University·JournalNature·TypeCase study·DateAug 25, 2023
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.

Pacific coral reef shows historic increase in climate resistance

A new study reveals that Pacific coral reefs have increased their thermal tolerance to higher ocean temperatures, reducing the risk of bleaching. This natural adaptation could help reefs withstand climate change if global carbon emissions are cut down.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 22, 2023

New material shows promise for next-generation memory technology

Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a promising new material, niobium telluride (NbTe4), for phase change memory technology. The material exhibits an ultra-low melting point of approximately 447°C and high thermal stability, making it ideal for applications in the automotive industry.

SourceTohoku University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 10, 2023
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.

Solving computationally complex problems with probabilistic computing

Researchers demonstrate probabilistic computing's capabilities by simulating networks of stochastic nanodevices to solve specific NP problems. The simulations agree with theoretical solutions, indicating the potential for scaling up this approach.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateApr 28, 2023

QUT research shows bushfire safe rooms may save lives

Researchers at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) have built and tested a full-scale bushfire safe room that demonstrates excellent heat resistance. The results suggest the shelter could keep people alive for up to two hours in extreme conditions, but further testing is needed to confirm human survivability.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalStructures·TypeObservational study·DateMar 21, 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.

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

Shellac-based coating makes pulp materials suitable for food without use of petroleum based polymers or metals

Researchers have developed a shellac-based coating to improve the gas barrier properties of moulded pulp materials, making them suitable for food packaging. The coating, combined with nanofibrillated cellulose, provides superior water resistance and thermal stability, while preserving environmental sustainability.

SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalPolymer International·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2023

Warmer climate may drive fungi to be more dangerous to our health

A new study finds that warmer temperatures cause a pathogenic fungus to experience adaptive responses, leading to increased disease-causing potential. The research, led by Asiya Gusa at Duke University, suggests that rising global temperatures may contribute to the evolution of more virulent fungal pathogens.

SourceDuke University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023
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.

Northern Red Sea reefs resist bleaching in warming seas

Researchers have found that corals in the northern Red Sea have not experienced mass bleaching despite high heat stress due to their acquired temperature tolerance around 7,000 years ago. The region's reefs are expected to be among the last standing by the end of the century under projected warming scenarios.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalFrontiers in Marine Science·DateDec 11, 2022

Trial by wind: Testing the heat resistance of carbon fiber-reinforced ultra-high-temperature ceramic matrix composites

The study investigates the degradation of carbon fiber-reinforced ultra-high-temperature ceramic matrix composites at temperatures above 2000°C. The results show that the amount of zirconium in the alloy affects the composite's oxidation resistance, and modifying the matrix composition is necessary to prevent degradation.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of Materials Science·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2022
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.

Ceramic coatings do not fatigue

Researchers at TU Wien found that ceramic coatings do not fatigue under extreme load conditions, but instead break down due to fracture toughness. The discovery changes the approach to measuring and improving thin film durability.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalActa Materialia·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2022

Researchers’ flow platform advances water harvesting technology

Researchers have advanced a novel platform to accelerate the harvesting process, solving a key problem in water collection by removing thermal barriers. The design features mushroom-like channels that direct water droplets into collectible containers, allowing for continuous water harvesting anywhere.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 4, 2022

£1.2m grant to revolutionise product design and manufacturing

Researchers aim to create crack-resistant, uniform materials with reduced residual stresses and porosity for use in AM. The project will combine the best processing features of existing alloys groups, resulting in lightweight, rigid, and thermally stable components.

SourceOxford Brookes University·DateSep 5, 2022

Combining techniques to create more environmentally friendly, heat resistant, and transparent plastics

Researchers at Nagoya University have developed a new technique for creating polymers with controlled molecular weight and high optical activity. The discovery uses a combination of living cationic polymerization and asymmetric cationic polymerization, resulting in optically active polymers with unique properties.

SourceNagoya University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 8, 2022

Developed a method for synthesizing titanium-based nanocomposite coatings

Scientists at Ural Federal University have developed a simpler and more effective method for synthesizing titanium-based nanocomposite coatings. The new approach allows for the production of wear-resistant coatings with controlled properties, suitable for various applications such as aircraft and biomedicine.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalMembranes·DateMay 12, 2022
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.

Studying atomic structure of aluminum alloys for manufacturing modern aircraft

The study focuses on the Al-Cu-Mg-Ag system used for aircraft structures, revealing patterns that enhance the alloy's heat resistance and strength. The findings will help extend the lifetime of aircraft parts made from these materials, improving overall efficiency and performance.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalMaterials Characterization·DateMar 25, 2022

A tailored coat to beat the heat

Researchers at KAUST developed a multilayered perovskite-based film that shields high-performance solar cells from extreme heat and moisture while boosting their long-term stability. The 2D perovskite capping layer improves the resistance of unsealed devices against thermal stress and moisture.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 2022

Geoff Wehmeyer wins CAREER Award

Geoff Wehmeyer has been awarded a National Science Foundation CAREER Award to deepen understanding of nanoscale heat transfer and improve device performance. He will use scanning transmission electron microscopy nano-thermometry experiments to better understand interfacial heat transport.

SourceRice University·DateJan 27, 2022

Pusan National University scientists develop simpler way to create common chemical detection platform

Researchers have created a new, simpler way to fabricate SERS nanostructures with superior stability and performance at low cost. By using a heat-resistant polymer called polyimide (PI), they can produce nanosurfaces with nanopillars that enhance signal intensity for efficient chemical detection. The new fabrication method has the pote...

SourcePusan National University·JournalSensors and Actuators B Chemical·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 17, 2022
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.

How plants respond to heat stress

Plants respond to heat stress by activating a molecular defense pathway involving brassinosteroids, which increase heat stress resistance. Researchers at TUM discovered the role of transcription factor BES1 in this process.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalThe EMBO Journal·DateJan 4, 2022

Bacteria engage sulfur for plant salt tolerance

Researchers found that bacteria living inside plant roots trigger sulfur metabolism to produce antioxidants that detoxify the plant from salt-induced damage. This discovery could lead to breakthrough technologies for saline agriculture and improve food production in arid lands.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 2021

Artificial intelligence accelerates search for markers of resistance to sugarcane yellow leaf disease

Researchers used machine learning and genomics to identify molecular markers of resistance to sugarcane yellow leaf disease in over 97 sugarcane genotypes. The study found that energy cane varieties with higher fiber content are more resistant to the disease, paving the way for commercial launches.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 28, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Scientists use sintered porous media to build compact, efficient heat exchangers

Researchers from The University of Electro-Communications and Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology found that sintering porous media inside heat transfer tubes increases the area available for heat exchange, reducing thermal resistance and enhancing heat transfer performance. Heat transfer in these tubes is five times greater...

SourceThe University of Electro-Communications·JournalApplied Thermal Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2021

Scientists have proposed effective ways to reduce metal cavitation damage

Researchers developed a WC-20CrC-7Ni coating with high anti-cavitation resistance, extending the life of aquatic environment mechanisms. The coating's fine structure increases surface area, requiring more energy for crack formation. This innovation can protect critical equipment parts in power engineering, metallurgy, and shipbuilding.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalJournal of Thermal Spray Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2021

Face masks slow spread of COVID-19; types of masks, length of use matter

Researchers found that face masks made of hybrid polymer materials can filter particles efficiently while cooling the face. Consistent mask-wearing by at least 70% of the public could lead to the eradication of COVID-19 if efficient masks are used, according to epidemiological studies.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateNov 24, 2020
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.

Gear treated with 'forever chemicals' poses risk to firefighters

Research by the University of Notre Dame found high concentrations of fluorine on firefighter PPE, including moisture barrier and outer shell. PFAS can contaminate thermal layer and skin, posing occupational health risk to firefighters.

SourceUniversity of Notre Dame·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology Letters·DateJun 23, 2020

Building a bean that resists leafhoppers

Researchers developed a new pinto bean variety, TARS-LH1, with increased resistance to leafhoppers and drought tolerance. The new crop has broad adaptation to different climates and could contribute to reducing pesticide use in common bean farming.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalJournal of Plant Registrations·DateApr 8, 2020
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.

Ocean skeletons reveal historical climate impacts

Researchers studied skeletal stress bands on corals to reconstruct bleaching history and understand thermal thresholds of reef communities. The study found thermally tolerant reefs experienced more stress than the least resistant ones, highlighting historical climate impacts on coral reefs.

SourceWildlife Conservation Society·JournalCoral Reefs·DateMay 16, 2019

Materials processing tricks enable engineers to create new laser material

Researchers at the University of California - San Diego have developed a new laser material that combines high power density, ultra-short pulses, and superior thermal shock resistance. The material is achieved through a novel materials processing strategy that dissolves high concentrations of neodymium ions into alumina crystals.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·DateJul 18, 2018

Fire-resistant steel buildings in the frame for QUT

A $258,778 grant from the Australian Research Council supports a project investigating fire resistance levels of Light Gauge Steel Framed (LSF) walls. The research aims to develop a generic model for predicting fire resistance levels and enhance fire safety in low- and mid-rise buildings.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·DateMay 28, 2018

Protein restricts sap uptake by aphids

Researchers at Umea University have discovered a plant protein that limits aphid feeding behavior, resulting in reduced sap ingestion and fewer offspring on resistant plants. The protein is thought to occlude the narrow food canal of the aphid, providing a new avenue for developing more sustainable crop resistance.

SourceUmea University·JournalThe Plant Cell·DateOct 10, 2017
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.

Peas that like it hot

A new study reveals genetic insights into heat tolerance in peas, identifying two key traits: longer flowering duration and higher pod numbers. These traits can help breed more resilient pea varieties for warmer climates.

SourceAmerican Society of Agronomy·JournalCrop Science·DateAug 23, 2017

Bumpy surfaces, graphene beat the heat in devices

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new way to dissipate heat in next-generation microelectronic devices by using bumpy surfaces with graphene. The interface between gallium nitride semiconductors and diamond heat sinks was improved, allowing phonons to disperse more efficiently. This improvement can lead to better reliabil...

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateNov 29, 2016

Scientists have created a ceramic, resistant to extreme temperatures

Researchers at TSU and SB RAS have developed a multi-layered ceramic material with heat resistance of over 3,000 degrees Celsius, targeting the space industry and aircraft engine manufacturing. The new material will provide increased protection during reentry and improve the performance of jet engines.

SourceNational Research Tomsk State University·DateAug 19, 2016
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.