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Advancing performance assessment of a spectral beam splitting hybrid PV/T system with water-based SiO2 nanofluid

Researchers investigated the effect of design parameters on system performance enhancement in spectral beam splitting hybrid PV/T systems using water-based SiO2 nanofluid. They found that optimal SiO2 nanofluid concentration balances efficiency and cost-effectiveness, with a maximum efficiency of 51.93% at a focusing ratio of 3.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers in Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 17, 2024
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 technique lets scientists create resistance-free electron channels

Researchers visualize chiral interface state at atomic scale for the first time, allowing on-demand creation of conducting channels. The technique has promise for building tunable networks of electron channels and advancing quantum computing.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 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.

New center positions UC Riverside as a leader in quantum vibronics

The University of California, Riverside's new QuVET center aims to harness quantum mechanics in energy and time, with a focus on vibronic effects in molecular systems. The collaboration between UCR and top universities will explore ways to enhance energy transport efficiency and develop new technologies.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateMar 22, 2024

Recyclable reagent and sunlight convert carbon monoxide into methanol

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory and University of North Carolina Chapel Hill develop a room-temperature conversion reaction strategy to convert carbon dioxide into methanol. The process employs a recyclable organic reagent and sunlight, producing an easily storable and transportable liquid fuel.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 20, 2024
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.

Two-dimensional bimetallic selenium-containing metal-organic frameworks and their calcinated derivatives as electrocatalysts for overall water splitting

Researchers created high-efficiency Se-containing electrocatalysts for overall water splitting using 2D layered metal-organic frameworks. The unique structure and synergistic effect between components significantly improve the electrochemical performance.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers in Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 7, 2024

Tests show high-temperature superconducting magnets are ready for fusion

Researchers at MIT and Commonwealth Fusion Systems confirm their high-temperature superconducting magnet design meets the criteria for a compact fusion power plant. The successful test marks a significant milestone in fusion research, with the potential to usher in an era of virtually limitless power production.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Applied Superconductivity·DateMar 4, 2024
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.

With just a little electricity, MIT researchers boost common catalytic reactions

MIT researchers found that applying a small voltage to a catalyst can significantly increase the rates of non-redox chemical reactions used in petrochemical processing and pharmaceutical manufacture. This discovery has the potential to transform our understanding of catalysis and design new reactors to take advantage of this phenomenon.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateFeb 15, 2024

Electrons screen against conductivity-killer in organic semiconductors

Scientists at University of Utah and University of Massachusetts Amherst uncover the physics behind dopant-polymer interactions that explain inconsistent conductivity issues in organic materials. The discovery reveals that a critical mass of electrons triggers collective screening, allowing rest of electrons to flow unimpeded.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 15, 2024

Climate change? Global change!

The book offers hope and impetus in the right direction by demonstrating that human courage and reason can help overcome paralyzing fear. It highlights the need for self-reliance, revitalization of human values, personal and local action, and a global perspective to steer humanity towards a modern world.

SourceWorld Scientific·DateFeb 14, 2024
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.

Resting boosts performance of lithium metal batteries

Researchers at Stanford University have discovered that resting lithium metal batteries in the discharged state can restore capacity and boost overall performance. By reprogramming the battery management software, lost capacity can be recovered without additional cost or changes needed for equipment, materials, or production flow.

SourceStanford University·JournalNature·DateFeb 7, 2024

PolyU develops high-efficiency carbon dioxide electroreduction system for reducing carbon footprint and progressing carbon neutrality goals

Researchers from PolyU develop a durable, highly selective and energy-efficient CO2 electroreduction system that converts CO2 into ethylene for industrial purposes. The APMA system achieves high specificity of 50% and operates for over 1,000 hours at an industrial-level current of 10A.

SourceThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 29, 2024

Magnesium still has the potential to become an efficient hydrogen store

A Swiss-Polish team has found the answer to why previous attempts to use magnesium hydride for efficient hydrogen storage failed. The researchers developed a new model that predicts local, thermodynamically stable clusters are formed in magnesium during hydrogen injection, reducing hydrogen ion mobility.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJan 25, 2024

New candidate for universal memory is fast, low-power, stable and long-lasting

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new phase-change memory that could help computers process large amounts of data faster and more efficiently. The technology improves several metrics simultaneously, including speed, endurance, and stability, while operating below 1 volt.

SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 22, 2024
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.

Machine learning method speeds up discovery of green energy materials

Scientists at Kyushu University use machine learning to identify promising green energy materials, accelerating the search for hydrogen fuel cell efficiency and expanding material discovery capabilities. Two new candidate materials with unique crystal structures have been successfully synthesized.

SourceKyushu University·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 17, 2024

US air pollution rates on the decline but pockets of inequities remain

Air pollution emissions have decreased substantially in the US over the last four decades, but racial and socioeconomic disparities remain. The study found that certain populations experienced relatively smaller reductions or even increases in air pollution emissions, highlighting the need for targeted policies to address inequities.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 17, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Core-shell ‘chemical looping’ boosts efficiency of greener approach to ethylene production

Researchers have developed a new catalyst that exceeds 30% yield for the production of ethylene through oxidative coupling of methane, a more sustainable and economically viable method. The core-shell Li2CO3-coated mixed rare earth oxides catalyst enables sequential oxygen switching, replenishing its ability to provide oxygen for the r...

SourceLehigh University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 12, 2024

Highly durable, nonnoble metal electrodes for hydrogen production from seawater

Researchers developed a multi-elemental alloy electrode composed of nine non-noble metals that performed sustainably over a decade when powered by solar energy. This innovation enables direct seawater electrolysis without using fresh water, promoting hydrogen production in regions with abundant renewable energy.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateJan 11, 2024

A methodology for regulating fuel stratification and improving fuel economy of GCI mode via double main-injection strategy

A new double main-injection (DMI) strategy has been proposed to regulate fuel stratification in Gasoline Compression Ignition (GCI) mode, improving fuel economy and reducing emissions. The study found that simultaneous main-injection and exhaust gas recirculation can achieve rapid fuel supply and control of combustion.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers in Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Lower voltage and reduced carbon input for cleaner energy in the works

Researchers at Tsinghua University Press have developed a non-precious metal electrocatalyst for water splitting, achieving stable oxygen evolution reactions (OER) and hydrogen evolution reactions (HER). The FeSnCo Sx Oy /NF catalyst shows promise in reducing carbon-based energy sources and producing more energy than gasoline.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research Energy·DateNov 30, 2023
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.

AI for perovskite solar cells: Key to better manufacturing

Researchers develop AI methods to analyze photoluminescence data and identify factors influencing coating quality. The findings provide a blueprint for improving production processes and boosting the efficiency of highly efficient solar cells.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 22, 2023

Putting sound waves to work to create safer public spaces

Researchers developed a system to capture sound waves in enclosed spaces like theaters and concert halls, converting them into electrical energy. This reduces the risk of hearing loss and promotes an environmentally friendly power management feature.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateNov 14, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Solved: How a spinning magnet cause other magnets to levitate

Researchers at DTU Energy replicated a 2021 experiment where a fast-spinning magnet caused another magnet to hover. The force affecting the magnets is attributed to coupling between movement and magnetic force, allowing it to defy classical physics.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateNov 14, 2023

Cheap and efficient ethanol catalyst from laser-melted nanoparticles

Scientists have developed a new, efficient ethanol catalyst made from copper nanoparticles, which is cheaper than platinum and could increase the potential of ethanol fuel cells. The catalyst was created through laser melting and shows great promise for improving ethanol oxidation.

SourceThe Henryk Niewodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics Polish Academy of Sciences·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateNov 9, 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.

New study finds electric vehicles are driven less than gas cars

A large study of used cars and SUVs found battery electric vehicles driven almost 4,500 fewer miles than gas cars annually. This challenges current assumptions about emissions savings from EVs, highlighting the need for better understanding of driver behavior to accurately predict emissions reductions.

SourceGeorge Washington University·JournalJoule·DateNov 6, 2023

Physicists ask: Can we make a particle collider more energy efficient?

Researchers from SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory and Stanford University propose the Cool Copper Collider, a next-generation accelerator that could probe elementary particle physics at higher energy scales. The proposal aims to reduce energy consumption by up to 50% through improved design and materials.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalPRX Energy·DateNov 3, 2023

Engineers develop an efficient process to make fuel from carbon dioxide

Researchers at MIT and Harvard University have developed an efficient process to convert carbon dioxide into a stable, solid formate fuel that can be used in fuel cells and generate electricity. The new process achieves over 90% conversion efficiency and eliminates the need for toxic and flammable fuels.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateOct 30, 2023
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Hybrid nanomaterials promise a sustainability boost across multiple industries

A comprehensive review of polyoxometalate (POM)-based nanohybrids charts their potential in improving sustainability across various industries. The nanohybrids have unique catalytic properties, enhancing photoelectrochemical reactions and promising applications in clean energy conversion, sensors, and electronics.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalPolyoxometalates·DateOct 27, 2023

Generating clean electricity with chicken feathers

Scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a new, environmentally friendly fuel cell membrane made from chicken feathers. The keratin-based membrane replaces toxic substances and reduces carbon emissions. This breakthrough could enable the widespread adoption of hydrogen power as a sustainable energy source.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalInterfaces·DateOct 20, 2023
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.

Optimizing continuous-variable functions with quantum annealing

Researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology have successfully tested quantum annealing on a D-Wave 2000Q quantum computer for optimizing continuous-variable functions. The study found that QA can significantly outperform state-of-the-art classical algorithms, especially when the energy barrier is high.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review A·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 3, 2023

Powering the quantum revolution: Quantum engines on the horizon

Researchers at OIST have developed a quantum engine that uses the principles of quantum mechanics to create power, replacing traditional fuel-based methods. The engine's efficiency can reach up to 25% and has potential applications in devices such as batteries and sensors.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature·DateSep 27, 2023

Efficient fuel-molecule sieving using graphene

Researchers developed a graphene-based proton-exchange membrane that successfully suppresses the crossover phenomenon, allowing for high proton conductivity while blocking fuel molecule penetration. This study contributes to the development of advanced fuel cells as an alternative to hydrogen-type fuel cells.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalAdvanced Science·DateSep 22, 2023
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.

Team led by professor In Soo-Il at DGIST develops eco-friendly high-efficiency photocatalysts that convert atmospheric CO2 into fuel

A team led by Professor In Soo-Il at DGIST developed a high-efficiency photocatalyst that converts CO2 into methane using solar energy. The research improved the composition of nanoparticle co-catalysts and ruthenium doping to maximize optical and electrical properties, achieving enhanced CO2 adsorption and conversion efficiency.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalCarbon Energy·DateSep 20, 2023

Consumption of ultraprocessed food and risk of depression

A recent study suggests that higher intake of ultraprocessed foods, particularly those with artificial sweeteners, may be associated with an increased risk of depression. The exact mechanism is unknown, but researchers believe that artificial sweeteners could play a role in the development of depression.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateSep 20, 2023

How wind turbines react to turbulence

Researchers from the University of Oldenburg developed a new stochastic method to mitigate sudden swings in wind turbine power output. The study found that control systems are mainly responsible for short-term fluctuations and can be optimized to ensure more consistent energy output.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalPRX Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateSep 19, 2023

A thermal processable, self-healing, and fully bio-based starch plastic

Researchers have developed a novel, fully bio-based starch plastic with remarkable flexibility, hydrophobicity, and self-healing properties. The material's ability to be thermally processed and adaptively heal scratches and large-area damage makes it highly appealing for various applications.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGreen Energy & Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 17, 2023
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.

New methodology reveals health, climate impacts of reducing buildings’ energy use

Researchers have developed a new method to calculate the health and climate impacts of reducing buildings' energy consumption. The tool estimates co-benefits under different energy use scenarios, providing insights into the economic value of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and premature deaths caused by air pollution.

SourceHarvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health·JournalBuilding and Environment·DateSep 11, 2023

Energy production is powered by more than just physics

A study by University of Washington Bothell and Seattle Pacific University researchers examines how teachers applied a holistic approach to analyze the social and cultural impacts of power plants. The authors found that connecting students with realities beyond the classroom prepares them to engage in community decision making.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Physics Teacher·DateSep 6, 2023

KMOU scientists develop an energy-efficient wireless power and information transfer system

Researchers from Korea Maritime and Ocean University developed a new framework for solving the energy efficiency problem in IIoTs. The proposed SWIPT-NOMA-DAS system is five times more energy efficient than existing systems, with significant improvements in performance and battery life extension.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 5, 2023

FAIR data and inclusive science to enable clean energy

Researchers at Auburn University are developing a Findable, Interoperable, Accessible, and Reusable (FAIR) data platform to manage fusion device data according to FAIR standards. The project aims to accelerate fusion energy research by enabling strong collaborations and promoting diversity in the workforce.

SourceAuburn University Department of Physics·DateSep 1, 2023

Team creates power generator that runs on natural atmospheric humidity

A Chinese research team has developed a power generator that collects and produces continuous electrical signals from natural atmospheric humidity. The device uses nano-sized polyoxometalates, which are environmentally friendly and have high stability in various environments.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateAug 4, 2023
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.