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Within U.S., exporting electricity imports about 700 premature deaths annually, Stanford study finda

A new Stanford University study reveals that US power plants generating electricity for export account for approximately 700 premature deaths in 2019. The majority of these health damages occur within the states where the power is both generated and used, but large discrepancies exist across regions.

SourceStanford University·JournalEnvironmental Research Letters·TypeObservational study·DateMay 19, 2022

Improved wind forecasts save consumers millions in energy costs

Researchers found that improved wind forecasts resulted in at least $384 million in energy savings for US consumers over the last decade. The study used NOAA's HRRR model to compare forecast accuracy and quantify cost savings.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateMay 17, 2022

Identifying global poverty from space

Researchers have identified over 2.4 million households in 49 countries as being below a certain economic threshold, based on the percentage of unlit settlements detected using nighttime light satellite images. The study found a clear association between increasing percentages of unlit communities and decreasing economic wellbeing levels.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 5, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Reversible fuel cells can support grid economically, Stanford researcher finds

Researchers at Stanford University and University of Mannheim find that integrated reversible power-to-gas systems can provide backup electricity during surging prices, reducing costs and increasing capacity utilization. The technology has the potential to link the electricity and hydrogen markets, making renewable energy more viable.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateApr 20, 2022

Programmed assembly of wafer-scale atomically thin crystals

A team of scientists has developed a method for assembling wafer-scale films at the atomic level, enabling large-scale production of artificial crystalline materials. The new technique, which uses van der Waals interactions, produces nearly 100% pristine interfaces and shows promise for developing new materials with unique properties.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 30, 2022

Wind, solar could replace coal power in Texas

A new study by Rice University engineers suggests that wind and solar projects could eliminate the need for coal in Texas, drastically reducing pollution. The research uses optimization modeling to identify the least-cost combinations of proposed wind and solar projects that can replace coal-fired power generation.

SourceRice University·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 21, 2022
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.

Texas cold snap highlights need for improved power systems

The Texas cold snap highlighted the critical role of electricity in society and the need for improved power system planning to withstand extreme weather events. The event showed that traditional planning based on historical weather patterns is not sufficient, and new information from climate projection models is needed.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalJoule·DateMar 14, 2022

Live wire: new research on nanoelectronics

A study by Arizona State University shows that certain proteins can act as efficient electrical conductors, outperforming DNA-based nanowires in conductance. The protein nanowires display better performance over long distances, enabling potential applications for medical sensing and diagnostics.

SourceArizona State University·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2022
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.

New power sources

In the 1990s, Massachusetts activists drafted model legislation for community choice aggregation, which has been adopted by 1,800 communities in six states. The program allows cities and towns to purchase renewable energy, reducing reliance on utility companies.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnergy Research & Social Science·DateFeb 23, 2022

CO2 recycling and efficient drug development—tackling two problems with one reaction

Scientists at Hokkaido University have developed an electrochemical method to recycle waste CO2 while producing molecules useful for drug development. The method utilizes an electron added to either the CO2 molecule or another molecule in the solution, making it easier to react with each other.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2022

Electronic skin that can feel in real time

Researchers created an artificial sensory receptor that generates spike signals on its own, enabling the e-skin to analyze spatial information and react to external stimuli in real-time. The e-skin's functionality overcomes limitations of conventional electronic skins, which can only process tactile information sequentially.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalScience Robotics·DateFeb 21, 2022

A possible paradigm shift within piezoelectricity

Researchers have found a new method to induce the piezoelectric effect in materials that are otherwise not piezoelectric. This breakthrough could lead to the development of biocompatible materials with properties similar to common lead-containing materials, and has the potential to expand the design of new electromechanical devices.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalScience·DateFeb 18, 2022
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.

Research roundup: E-cigs aren’t safe

A recent review of e-cigarette research highlights the significant health risks associated with vaping, including lung inflammation and injury. The study found that e-cigarettes can cause negative effects in multiple organs, from the brain to the bladder, and may even increase the risk of lung cancer.

SourceVeterans Affairs Research Communications·JournalAnnual Review of Physiology·TypeLiterature review·DateFeb 17, 2022

What will a CO2-neutral Switzerland cost us?

A study published in Frontiers in Energy Research calculates the costs of a CO2-neutral Switzerland, finding that three different energy systems would require significant investments and increased energy costs. The most efficient option is electrifying the entire energy supply, but this comes with the challenge of storing enough renewa...

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalFrontiers in Energy Research·TypeCase study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Fall and rise of electricity use in early pandemic

A Stanford University and Oregon State University study found that global electricity consumption declined by 7.6% in April 2020 due to government restrictions, but recovered rapidly as people returned to work and social activities. The magnitude of change was not related to the severity of restrictions or economic activity.

SourceStanford University·JournaliScience·DateFeb 11, 2022

It’s in the air – battery discovery takes up the charge

Researchers at UTS have designed a molecule to tackle issues with lithium-oxygen batteries, increasing discharge capacity and efficiency. The breakthrough paves the way for long-life, energy-dense batteries capable of matching petrol-fuelled cars' driving ranges.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Amped consortium receives NSF IUCRC planning grant

The Advanced Magnetics for Power and Energy Development (AMPED) Consortium has received a $60,000 planning grant from the National Science Foundation to address the growing need for improved soft magnetic materials and enhanced device applications in emerging energy technologies. The consortium aims to create an interdisciplinary workf...

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateFeb 8, 2022

Researchers propose new fix for Texas power vulnerabilities

A Cornell University-led analysis recommends improving contracting improvements in Texas' energy-only markets to mitigate rare events. Decentralized energy markets rely on investors anticipating demand, but they often fail to manage risk as designed.

SourceCornell University·JournalJoule·DateFeb 8, 2022

Mechanical control of a reconfigurable intelligent surface

A mechanical RIS has been developed with high reconfiguration degree of freedom, low power consumption, and real-time dynamic control capabilities. It uses a robust control method to determine the rotation angle of each meta-atom and offers a new energy-saving and environmentally friendly alternative for wireless communications systems.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateFeb 4, 2022

Guidelines to exploring nanoscale flexoelectricity via AFM tip pressing

A comprehensive guideline for exploring nanoscale flexoelectricity via AFM tip pressing has been developed by a joint team of researchers. The method allows for the control of flexoelectricity in nanometer-sized materials, showing potential applications as generators and actuators in nanoscale units.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateFeb 2, 2022
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.

The role of risk aversion in the coal contracting behavior of US power plants

A new study finds that US power plants prioritize reducing input cost variance over minimizing expected total costs, resulting in longer coal contracts and higher contract prices. The researchers estimate that if all power plants purchased coal from the spot market, the annual aggregate cost savings would be $2.9 billion.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of the Association of Environmental and Resource Economists·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 13, 2022

Idaho researchers unveil enhanced electric power grid test bed

Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory have created a nationwide-scale electric power grid test bed to develop and demonstrate cutting-edge technologies for grid modernization. The enhanced test bed offers a collaborative environment for labs, industry, academia, and government to leverage shared resources.

SourceDOE/Idaho National Laboratory·DateJan 12, 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.

New tool models fairer electricity trade

Researchers propose a new model for electricity trade that balances economic interests and considers the stability of economic ties. The model suggests ways to improve cooperation between nations and prioritize transit country interests.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Power Systems·DateDec 15, 2021

UCF researchers’ ethanol fuel cells offer new alternative to power cars, technology

The University of Central Florida researchers have developed an alcohol-based power source for cars and other technology that uses less fuel and produces fewer emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels. The ethanol fuel cell has achieved a maximum power density and operation time of over 5,900 hours, making it a promising alternat...

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 13, 2021

These tiny liquid robots never run out of juice as long as they have food

Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed water-walking liquid robots that can retrieve and deliver precious chemicals autonomously. The robots use chemistry to control buoyancy and do not require electrical energy, making them ideal for applications such as chemical synthesis and drug delivery.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2021
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.

Hydrogen produced from offshore wind in China can help Japan reach its greenhouse gas emissions goals

A team of researchers explored the possibility of producing hydrogen from offshore wind in China and delivering it to Japan at a cost competitive with the country's future projections. The study found that Chinese-produced hydrogen could supply Japan's net-zero transition needs by 2030, even under a high-cost scenario.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 1, 2021

Apples to apples: How similarity theory could boost fuel cell research

A comprehensive review of similarity theory in PEMFC research reveals its potential to accelerate progress. The study highlights the benefits of using dimensionless analysis to compare results and reduce testing efforts. However, challenges remain in developing integrated performance criteria.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalEnergy Storage and Saving·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 30, 2021

Stanford researchers reveal how to turn a global warming liability into a profitable food security solution

A new process converts potent greenhouse gas methane into protein-rich fishmeal, a potential solution for global food security. The analysis found production costs involving methane from certain US sources are lower than conventional fishmeal prices, with feasible cost reductions possible using other methane sources.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Sustainability·DateNov 22, 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.

Macrogrid study: Big value in connecting America’s eastern and western power grids

Researchers found that bigger connections between the two grids can increase transmission capacity and provide significant value through sharing generation resources and flexibility across regions. The study suggests that a macrogrid could pay for itself in three primary ways: by helping different parts of the country meet their peak d...

SourceIowa State University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 18, 2021

New sensor detects ever smaller nanoparticles

Researchers have developed a novel sensor that can detect and track the movement of nanoparticles in space, providing insights into biological processes. The sensor uses an optical resonator to capture light interactions with nanoparticles, allowing for the measurement of their three-dimensional motion.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 11, 2021

Life cycle assessment of carbon capture

A life cycle assessment of carbon capture at Amager Bakke incineration plant reveals that the technology reduces CO2 emissions from incineration but decreases electricity production by 50%. The overall net energy efficiency is not affected, but heat output increases by 20%.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalWaste Management & Research The Journal for a Sustainable Circular Economy·DateNov 9, 2021
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.

Using microbes to make carbon-neutral fuel

Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a way to train microbes to produce a readily usable biofuel from CO2, solar panel-generated electricity and light. The resulting n-butanol is an authentically carbon-neutral fuel alternative that can be used in blends with diesel or gasoline.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalCommunications Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 3, 2021

An artificial material that can sense, adapt to its environment

Researchers at University of Missouri and University of Chicago develop an artificial material that can respond to its environment, make decisions, and perform actions not directed by humans. The material uses a computer chip to control information processing and convert energy into mechanical energy.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 2, 2021

How to limit global warming to 1.5C

Scientists from University of Technology Sydney developed energy-related carbon budgets for 12 main industry sectors, showing that it's still possible to limit global warming to 1.5C with timely climate action. The research provides sector-specific emission targets and a holistic model for decarbonization pathways.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·DateNov 1, 2021

Industry must prepare now for a new world of green electricity

The University of Leeds research highlights the need for industry to adopt new technologies that can manufacture materials using renewable electricity. This is crucial to achieving net zero emissions targets by 2050, as current steel and aluminium manufacturing capacities pose a significant barrier to this goal.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalCurrent Opinion in Environmental Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 27, 2021
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.

Rethinking grid integration of a massive renewable power expansion to achieve carbon neutrality in China and beyond

A new model suggests that integrating massive offshore wind generation, power storage, electric vehicles, green hydrogen production, and expanded transmission can reduce costs of renewable power integration into the grid. This strategy could make achieving China's carbon neutrality by 2050 feasible without significantly increasing costs.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalJoule·DateOct 21, 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.

Expansion of wind and solar power too slow to stop climate change

Researchers find that most countries are not growing wind and solar power fast enough to meet global warming targets of 1.5°C or 2°C. The study analyzes data from 60 countries and finds that only a few countries, like Portugal and Ireland, have seen rapid growth in onshore wind and solar power.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalNature Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 14, 2021

Keeping it clean and cool

Dr. Mohammad Al Hashmi's research focuses on reducing energy consumption in residential buildings in hot and arid climates using renewable energy systems such as solar and wind power. His framework combines building interventions and clean energy approaches to minimize environmental impact.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalEnergies·TypeMeta-analysis·DateOct 7, 2021

To solve Brazil’s energy and food crisis: Store more water

A new study suggests that keeping reservoir levels low during droughts can exacerbate the problem and contribute to Brazil's current water and energy crisis. Storing more water in reservoirs could increase precipitation and river flow, alleviating the crisis.

SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalEnergy·DateSep 21, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Strong sunlight powers passive cooling device

A simple cooling system utilizing passive solar energy and a specially designed salt can effectively cool food and living spaces without electricity. The system's two-step process involves dissolving salts in water to absorb energy, which is then regenerated using solar energy to evaporate the water.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 19, 2021

Novel polymer can boost performance of organic and perovskite solar cells

Researchers synthesized a new conjugated polymer using two chemical reactions, showing it outperforms traditional methods in organic and perovskite solar cells. The Stille reaction pathway yielded superior results with efficiencies of up to 15.1% in photovoltaic devices.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalMacromolecular Chemistry and Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 2021

Scientists explore method to produce composites with ‘shape memory’

Researchers investigated glass fiber-reinforced epoxy-based flat laminates with pultrusion, a fast and versatile composite manufacturing process. The study found significant promise for structural applications of these 'shape memory' composites in various industries.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalComposites Part A Applied Science and Manufacturing·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2021
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.

Sandia uncovers hidden factors that affect solar farms during severe weather

A study published by Sandia National Laboratories reveals that older solar farms are more susceptible to extreme weather events, while snowstorms have the highest impact on electricity production. Machine learning analysis also found that low sunlight levels due to cloud cover and geographical features of the farm are significant factors.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalApplied Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 31, 2021

Stanford researchers make rechargeable batteries that store six times more charge

The new alkali metal-chlorine batteries can cycle up to 200 times and achieve a capacity of 1,200 milliamp hours per gram, significantly outperforming commercial lithium-ion batteries. Researchers envision their batteries being used in satellites and remote sensors where frequent recharging is not practical.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2021
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.

Making patient care easier: Self-powered diaper sensors that monitor urine sugar levels

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science developed a self-powered diaper sensor that monitors urine sugar levels, providing an alternative biomarker for blood sugar monitoring. The sensor uses a biofuel cell powered by glucose in the urine, detecting sugar levels within 1 second and simplifying caretaking tasks.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalACS Sensors·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2021

Getting smart about off-grid desalination

A new technology developed at KAUST uses waste heat from solar cells to desalinate seawater, improving efficiency by up to 8% while reducing solar cell temperature. The device features a gravity-driven system and a special fabric that wicks away solid salts and minerals.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJoule·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 3, 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.

Metallic water prepared for first time under terrestrial conditions

Researchers at IOCB Prague develop a method to prepare metallic water without high pressure, by dissolving electrons from alkali metal in water vapor. The resulting solution lasts several seconds and contains dissolved alkali cations and hydroxide and hydrogen.

SourceInstitute of Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry of the Czech Academy of Sciences (IOCB Prague)·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2021