Energy
Articles tagged with Energy
The ionic path to all-solid-state batteries
Major hurdle in photovoltaic technologies surpassed with use of hydrazide indole additive
The use of 1H-indole-3-carbohydrazide in perovskite solar cells has successfully alleviated the major obstacle of defect-induced nonradiative recombination, leading to improved stability and power conversion efficiency. This additive achieves a critical balance between high performance and long-term durability.
Vortex-induced triboelectric nanogenerator for multidirectional wind energy harvesting enables efficient wind energy harvesting under low wind speed and high humidity
For most US drivers, EVs offer emissions benefits and cost savings
Metabolism-inspired hydrogels replicate heartbeat-like motion and photosynthesis
Researchers design polymer networks to replicate dynamic behaviors inspired by biological systems. Self-oscillating gels exhibit rhythmic motion similar to a beating heart, while artificial photosynthetic gels convert light into chemical energy.
ORNL names Kate Evans associate lab director for biological, environmental systems science
Inspired by the brain, researchers build smarter, more efficient computer hardware
Recent advancements in the tribovoltaic effect for human motion energy harvesting and wearable self-powered sensing
Researchers developed a novel tribovoltaic effect-based strategy for human motion energy harvesting, enabling stable direct current output and simplifying system design. Advanced device designs enhance flexibility, durability, and adaptability to complex human motions, making it suitable for wearable applications.
Renewable energy is more cost effective than direct air capture at reducing carbon, new study finds
A new study published in Communications Sustainability reveals that investing in renewable energy yields more combined climate and public health benefits than direct air capture. The analysis models the health and climate benefit of cost-equivalent deployments of DAC, solar, and onshore wind across US grid regions from 2020 to 2050.
Creatine is claimed to benefit our body and mind. Here’s what the latest science does – and doesn’t – tell us
Creatine supplementation has been shown to increase muscle energy and improve cognitive function, particularly in populations with lower baseline creatine levels. Emerging evidence also explores its potential therapeutic applications for conditions like Parkinson's disease and menopause-related muscle loss.
Perovskite solar cells skip yellow phase, degrade slower thanks to key additives
Researchers at Rice University have developed a method to make perovskite-based photovoltaics more durable by adding two key ingredients, skipping the yellow phase and degrading slower. The films retain 98% of their initial efficiency even after 1,200 hours of exposure.
Direct Raman detection of ångström-scale ultrathin molecular layers at interfaces
Researchers have developed a coherent Raman spectroscopy method that directly detects ångström-scale molecular films at interfaces without plasmonic enhancement or electronic resonance. This approach suppresses strong substrate background signals, allowing for highly sensitive interfacial Raman spectroscopy.
Wrinkled carbon spheres unlock efficient and green hydrogen peroxide electrosynthesis
Researchers have developed a series of carbonyl-rich carbon sphere catalysts with unique wrinkled surface architecture, significantly enhancing the catalyst's performance in hydrogen peroxide electrosynthesis. The optimized catalyst achieved high H2O2 selectivity and efficiency.
Challenges and breakthroughs in quantum dots: From nucleation to high-performance QLEDs
A review article analyzes InP quantum dot synthesis, core/shell optimization, ligands, and charge management for high-performance QLEDs. The study reveals the intrinsic relationship between microscopic material properties and macroscopic device performance.
Turning “wastewater” into a resource: New insights on liquid fertilizer from hydrothermal carbonization
Process water from hydrothermal carbonization contains substantial amounts of nutrients and organic compounds, making it a nutrient-rich resource for crop production and environmental management. Diluting the liquid or using pre-treatment methods can reduce risks associated with its use.
A faster way to estimate AI power consumption
MIT researchers have created an 'EnergAIzer' method that generates reliable results in seconds, allowing data center operators to optimize resource allocation and reduce energy waste. The tool leverages patterns from AI workloads and software optimizations to provide fast but accurate power estimates.
Quaise Energy on track to build world’s first power plant using superhot geothermal energy
Quaise Energy is building the world's first power plant using superhot geothermal energy, with the goal of producing at least 50 megawatts of clean electricity. The project aims to harness temperatures greater than 300 degrees C and validate its long-held hypothesis that higher subsurface temperatures can improve power production.
NTU Singapore appoints global leader in energy storage science as Vice President for Industry
Professor Shirley Meng will lead NTU's industry engagement efforts, forging partnerships with global companies and establishing joint research institutes worldwide. She brings expertise in integrated battery performance, safety, and sustainability, driving interdisciplinary collaborations and championing fundamental sciences for real-w...
Researchers show how simple magnets can help solve a complex problem
Researchers developed a new method to recover critical minerals using simple magnets, which streamlines the process while reducing energy consumption. The technique exploits small differences in magnetic susceptibility to drive selective transport and separation.
NUS CDE researchers develop biowaste coatings to boost CO2-to-fuel conversion
Researchers at NUS CDE have developed biowaste coatings that improve the conversion of carbon dioxide into useful fuels and chemicals, achieving high selectivity rates and reducing reliance on PFAS. The coatings, made from crustacean shells, insect exoskeletons, and plant matter, offer a cost-effective pathway to climate technology.
Millisecond electric pulse makes titanium stronger and tougher
Researchers from Kumamoto University and partners discovered a method to enhance titanium alloys using high-density pulsed electric current, achieving improved strength and toughness. The technique harnesses an electron wind force to reorganize the internal crystal structure, producing nanoscale martensitic phases that disperse stress ...
New irradiance forecasting method could improve stand-alone photovoltaic system operation
Researchers developed a feature selection-based solar irradiance forecasting method to improve stand-alone photovoltaic system operation. The approach forecasts solar irradiance using a bidirectional long short-term memory hybrid network, then estimates the optimum tilt angle to increase PV output power.
Predictive energy management could improve fuel savings and emissions in hybrid-electric regional aircraft
Researchers developed a predictive energy management framework for megawatt-class parallel hybrid-electric regional aircraft, showing improved environmental and operational performance. Simulation results show reduced fuel consumption, CO2 emissions, NOx emissions, and energy-specific air range.
Hybrid nonlinear generator broadens low-speed wind energy harvesting for self-powered devices
Researchers developed a nonlinear galloping-driven triboelectric-electromagnetic hybrid generator to harvest low-speed wind energy. The system can work over a wide wind-speed range and produce enough power to support practical electronics.
Researchers reveal new method for dialing up superconductivity
Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a new method for controlling superconductivity by manipulating the surrounding environment. By adjusting electron interactions, they were able to switch the material's superconductivity on and off, revealing a simpler way to control atomic power behind superconductivity.
Ostrowski, Herrman’s NSF award funds interdisciplinary optimization
The University of Tennessee at Knoxville has received a $300,000 NSF grant to develop quantum computing-based tools for two-step uncertainty optimization problems. This will enable researchers and industry engineers to quickly determine the potential benefits of quantum computing in solving complex decisions.
Distributed solar and carbon trading enable more affordable and equitable clean heating in rural Northern China
Researchers found that rural households in Northern China face significant challenges in affording clean heating as subsidies shrink. Distributed rooftop solar photovoltaics could help offset heating costs, with an estimated compensation of 32.2-64.5% in regions with strong solar potential.
Agricultural waste-derived biochar dramatically boosts ozone treatment to remove persistent water pollutant
Researchers developed a nitrogen-doped biochar that enhances ozone-based water treatment efficiency by over 100 times, removing persistent pollutants like DEET. The catalyst also shows strong performance against pharmaceuticals and herbicides, offering a promising solution for tackling emerging contaminants.
Review summarizes photocatalyst and biocatalyst for artificial photosynthesis
The review highlights the potential of semiartificial photosynthesis in overcoming natural photosynthesis limitations. Biocatalysts play a crucial role in this technology, enabling more efficient CO2 capture, utilization, and storage. The research aims to develop new catalysts for producing fuels and valuable substances from sunlight.
Manchester Professor appointed expert reviewer for Government nuclear decommissioning review
A University of Manchester Professor has been appointed as an Expert Reviewer for the NDA 2026 Review, led by Dr Tim Stone CBE. The review assesses the NDA's strategic planning, project delivery, and financial management to ensure value for money and highest safety standards.
Scalable fabrication of large‑scale electrochromic smart windows for superior solar radiation regulation and energy savings
Researchers developed a scalable strategy for fabricating large-area electrochromic smart windows using tungsten oxide films, enabling practical industrial production. The technology reduces building energy consumption by up to 140.0 MJ m−2 compared to conventional windows, showcasing significant energy-saving potential.
Stabilized hybrid photocatalyst boosts artificial photosynthesis efficiency
Researchers develop hybrid photocatalyst system to overcome light-induced damage in molecular catalysts, significantly improving CO2-to-formate quantum yield from 6% to over 27%. The new design ensures selective excitation of semiconductors and prevents unwanted photochemical reactions.
German-Chilean initiative for environmentally friendly resource extraction
Researchers from KIT and Chile are testing direct extraction methods to access critical raw materials like lithium in brine deposits, reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. The BRIDGE initiative aims to develop more benign and efficient processes, with potential applications in Europe.
Making perovskite solar cells weather-resistant
TUM researchers have identified the microscopic causes of instability in perovskite solar cells and developed a strategy to prevent degradation through temperature swings. They discovered that a 'burn-in' phase triggers early loss of relative performance, but using special organic molecules as spacers can stabilize the material.
New framework helps power plants turn CO₂ into profitable products
A new review provides a decision-making framework for carbon capture and utilization (CCU) deployment in power plants. The framework respects operational, regulatory, and cultural boundaries while unlocking economic potential of CO2 conversion.
Why solid-state batteries keep short circuiting
Researchers discovered that faster dendrite growth is associated with lower stress levels in a commonly used battery electrolyte material, revealing chemical reactions as a new culprit behind the problem. The study provides guidance for designing stronger electrolytes to make solid-state batteries successful.
‘Spin-flip’ in metal complexes can help solar cells leap beyond limits
Researchers successfully captured singlet-fission-amplified excitons with a molybdenum-based emitter, achieving 130% quantum yield and pushing the limits of solar cell efficiency. The team used a metal complex called 'spin-flip' emitter to harvest multiplied energy from singlet fission.
Biochar-based catalyst converts biomass into valuable chemicals under mild conditions
Researchers developed a highly efficient biochar-supported catalyst that converts biomass-derived chemicals into valuable industrial products under remarkably mild conditions. The study demonstrates the untapped potential of biochar as an active partner in catalysis.
NSF Energy Storage Engine enters second phase with ambitious plans
The NSF Energy Storage Engine has received $45 million over three years to advance next-gen battery and energy storage systems. It will focus on safety, cost efficiency, and AI integration in manufacturing.
New computer chip material inspired by the human brain could slash AI energy use
Researchers developed a new type of nanoelectronic device mimicking the human brain's efficient neuron connections, reducing energy consumption for AI systems. The hafnium-based devices achieve switching currents millions of times lower than conventional devices and store programmed states for around a day.
Gallium-based liquid metals emerge as key cybernetic mediators for human-machine integration
Recent scientific review highlights Ga-LMs' natural fluidity, high electrical conductivity, and biocompatibility, making them suitable for wearable health monitoring systems, soft robots, and implantable medical devices. Advanced patterning techniques enable precise fabrication of Ga-LM-based circuits for high-performance HMIs.
Researchers develop biochar-based photocatalyst that rapidly removes antibiotic pollutants from water
A new biochar-enhanced photocatalyst has been developed to efficiently degrade antibiotic contaminants in water, with the material demonstrating remarkable ability to break down sulfadiazine. The photocatalyst harnesses sunlight to drive chemical reactions capable of degrading antibiotic molecules, and its performance is substantially ...
Design of polyhedral cage-engineered MOFs for efficient methane purification from natural gas
Scientists in China have designed MOFs with 3D pyr-topology frameworks and polyhedral cages to efficiently purify methane from natural gas. The materials exhibit high adsorption capacities for C3H8 and C2H6 but extremely low CH4 uptake.
Dongguk University researchers develop breakthrough material for powering next-generation smart devices
A new material, benzene-phosphonic acid (BPA), enables self-powered operation of smart sensors and wearables. The breakthrough technology reduces fabrication costs and promotes environmental sustainability.
Enhancement of grain boundary interactions to promote mechanical stability of LNO under deep delithiation conditions
Researchers propose Mo6+ doping to stabilize LNO cathodes under deep delithiation conditions through grain boundary strengthening. The strategy addresses mechanical degradation and enhances electrochemical stability.
Schwartzman part of team awarded $1 million Sloan Foundation grant
A $1 million Sloan Foundation grant will track and monitor data center development in Tennessee, Georgia, and Virginia, exploring its impact on rural communities. The research aims to understand how different policies and regulations shape data center development and its effects on communities.
Undercoordination engineering of chromium single-atom catalyst with optimized d-p hybridization for lithium-sulfur batteries
Researchers developed an undercoordinated chromium single-atom catalyst that enhances sulfur electrocatalytic activity and lithium-sulfur battery performance. The unique design regulates electronic states, increasing sulfur electrocatalytic activity and achieving outstanding cycling stability and rate capability.
Orbital modulation enables high-performance NASICON cathode for sodium-ion batteries
A novel orbital modulation strategy eliminates anti-site defects in NASICON-type Na3MnTi(PO4)3 cathode, improving cycling stability and rate performance. The optimized cathode achieves ultra-long cycling stability, excellent rate performance and wide-temperature adaptability.
Breaking down the battery problem
UT Austin researcher Arumugam Manthiram is working to advance lithium-ion battery technology by understanding the chemistry of oxide cathodes. His research aims to develop more efficient and environmentally friendly battery materials, addressing supply chain disruptions and high costs.
SwRI upgrades facilities to expand subsurface safety valve testing to new application
Southwest Research Institute has upgraded its facilities to accommodate subsurface safety valve (SSSV) testing for carbon capture and storage (CCS) applications. The upgrades support existing high-quality testing services while enabling efficient testing at extreme temperatures.
A new name, a new beginning: Building a green energy future together
The Shanghai Jiao Tong University Journal Center announces the renaming of Frontiers in Energy to ENGINEERING ENERGY, a move towards strengthening brand identity and open approach. The journal aims to foster exchange of ideas and dissemination of innovative findings in energy science and technology.
Supported catalyst design for low-temperature hydrogen production
Researchers developed a new catalyst strategy that uses BaSi2 as a support for nickel and cobalt to decompose ammonia at lower temperatures. This enables high hydrogen-production activity at reduced temperatures, matching the performance of ruthenium while relying on Earth-abundant metals.
The unprecedented transformation in energy: The Third Energy Revolution toward carbon neutrality
The Third Energy Revolution is driven by global climate change and global consensus on carbon neutrality, integrating renewable energy sources and digital intelligence. The cornerstone of this revolution is renewable energy, transforming the entire energy technology and system.
Synergistic ultramicropore-confined and electronic-state modulation strategies in sustainable lignin-derived hard carbon for robust sodium-ion batteries
Researchers develop synergistic ultramicropore-confined and electronic-state modulation strategies in sustainable lignin-derived hard carbon to achieve robust sodium-ion batteries. The material exhibits high reversible capacity and initial Coulombic efficiency, making it a promising anode candidate.
Protecting perovskite solar cells against environmental influences
A team of researchers successfully enhanced the stability and performance of perovskite solar cells by introducing light-switchable molecules into grain boundaries. The new material design increases operational stability and lifespan while maintaining competitive performance.
Lehigh University engineering faculty named Senior Members of the National Academy of Inventors
Five Lehigh University professors have been recognized for their innovative work, collectively holding over 2,000 U.S. patents. Their research focuses on diverse areas, including orthopaedic device technology, nanocrystalline alloys, and energy storage systems.
Leaping puddles create new rules for water physics
A team of scientists, led by Associate Professor Jiangtao Cheng, has discovered a previously unreported method to get a puddle of water up to 1 cm wide to jump into the air. The bursting energy of bubbles trapped inside the droplets is key to this phenomenon.
Coffee waste turned into clean air solution: researchers develop sustainable catalyst to remove toxic hydrogen sulfide
A team of environmental chemists developed a new catalyst made from discarded coffee grounds that efficiently removes hydrogen sulfide, a highly toxic industrial gas, while producing elemental sulfur. The material was produced through a two-step process and demonstrated outstanding performance during laboratory testing.
New approach to qualifying nuclear reactor components rolling out this year
Researchers have developed a new method for qualifying materials for use in advanced nuclear reactors, which uses ion beams to mimic radiation damage. This approach can be done at a fraction of the cost and time required by traditional test reactors.