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Chemists discover why photosynthetic light-harvesting is so efficient

Researchers found that disordered organization of proteins boosts energy transfer efficiency, allowing nearly every photon to generate an electron. This finding could lead to better understanding of photosynthesis and potential applications in artificial systems.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 3, 2023

Towards efficient lithium–air batteries with solution plasma-based synthesis of perovskite hydroxide catalysts

Researchers at Shibaura Institute of Technology have developed a faster way to synthesize CoSn(OH)6, a powerful catalyst required for high-energy lithium–air batteries. The new method uses solution plasma-based synthesis and achieves highly crystalline CSO crystals with improved catalytic properties.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalSustainable Energy & Fuels·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2023

Tidal stream research to cut carbon and boost energy security

The £7 million CoTide project aims to develop scalable tidal stream energy, making renewable power cheaper, more reliable, and scalable. The initiative will create integrated engineering tools and solutions to overcome technical challenges in harnessing ocean tides as a clean energy source.

SourceUK Research and Innovation·DateJun 26, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers enhance electron–phonon coupling strength in low-dimensional strontium ruthenate

Researchers demonstrated a 300-fold increase in electron-phonon coupling strength by reducing dimensionality, paving the way for novel engineering opportunities. The enhancement was attributed to non-local nature of coupling in synthetic SRO/STO superlattices.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023

Scientists adopt high entropy perovskite and quaternary alloy to synergistically enable high-efficiency carbon dioxide reduction

Researchers have developed a highly efficient electrode for solid oxide electrolysis cells, enabling high-efficiency carbon dioxide reduction. The high-entropy perovskite-type symmetrical electrode incorporates Fe-Co-Ni-Cu quaternary alloy nanocatalysts, showing exceptional catalytic activity and stability.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalAdvanced Powder Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 18, 2023
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 recipes for better solar fuel production

A team of researchers from China and the UK has developed new ways to optimise the production of solar fuels by creating novel photocatalysts. These photocatalysts, such as titanium dioxide with boron nitride, can absorb more wavelengths of light and produce more hydrogen compared to traditional methods.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalApplied Surface Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2023

New study could help unlock ‘game-changing’ batteries for electric vehicles and aviation

Researchers used X-ray computed tomography to visualize dendrite failure in unprecedented detail, revealing separate processes driving initiation and propagation of cracks. The findings point to overcoming technological challenges of lithium metal solid-state batteries, which could improve EV battery range, safety, and performance.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 7, 2023

Intentional defects make for better reactions, researchers report

Defects in atomic structure enable better oxygen evolution reaction performance, producing clean-burning hydrogen gas with less electricity. The researchers developed electrocatalysts with both amorphous and crystalline architectures that contain defects, leading to superior reaction activity.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research Energy·DateJun 7, 2023
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.

Wearable textile captures energy from body movement to power devices

Researchers have created a wearable textile that can convert body movement into usable electricity and store it for future use. The fabric has high energy density and lengthy stability over charge and discharge cycles, making it promising for delivering wearable energy generation and storage.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research Energy·DateJun 5, 2023

Zap Energy charts roadmap for measuring fusion gain

Zap Energy has developed a method to measure and calculate Q, the net energy gain, in its sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch fusion plasmas. The company measures temperature, density, and flow velocity to determine plasma confinement duration.

SourceZap Energy·JournalFusion Science & Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 5, 2023

DOE award to Zap Energy for fusion pilot plant design

The DOE's Milestone-Based Fusion Development Program supports Zap Energy's sheared-flow-stabilized Z-pinch technology, a promising approach to fusion energy. With $5 million in funding, Zap aims to develop a grid-ready power source and engage with local communities.

SourceZap Energy·DateMay 31, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Mosquito zappers get a boost from static-electricity harvester redesign

Researchers at Tsinghua University Press designed a new triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) fabrication method to increase the charge density of mosquitoes and reduce wasted energy. The high-performance rotary TENG device demonstrated an output voltage of 6 kV, making it effective in killing mosquitoes and destroying bacteria.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research Energy·DateMay 29, 2023

Boosting solar cell energy capture efficiency with a fullerene-derivative interlayer

Researchers introduced a conductive fullerene-derivative interlayer to enhance electron transport and increase PCE in all-inorganic perovskite solar cells, improving thermal stability. The interlayer remedies morphology issues, energy level mismatches, and electron traps, resulting in increased efficiency and reduced defects.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research Energy·DateMay 18, 2023

Driving on sunshine: clean, usable liquid fuels made from solar power

Scientists at the University of Cambridge have created a solar-powered technology that converts carbon dioxide and water into liquid fuels like ethanol and propanol. These fuels have high energy density and produce no net carbon emissions, making them a promising alternative to fossil fuels.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Energy·DateMay 18, 2023
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.

Carbon-negative hydrogen production technology: a new perspective for bio-energy with CO₂ capture and storage

A new alkaline thermal treatment (ATT) technology produces hydrogen from biomass with significant potential for negative carbon emissions. The study highlights the importance of alkali and catalysts in the reaction mechanism, suggesting strategies to enhance efficiency and overcome kinetic limitations.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalCarbon Resources Conversion·TypeSystematic review·DateMay 9, 2023

New catalyst transforms carbon dioxide into sustainable byproduct

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new catalyst that converts captured carbon dioxide into acetic acid with high efficiency. The innovation uses electrochemistry to convert CO2 into products with established markets, offering new pathways for improving the economics of carbon capture and storage.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateMay 3, 2023

Assessing the impact of going off-grid on transmission charge and energy market outcomes

A team of researchers found that prosumers, who produce their own electricity, can lower transmission charges when generating less energy. However, when producing a large amount of renewable energy, transmission charges increase. The study suggests levying a per-MWh tax on prosumer consumption to reduce the likelihood of death spirals.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalApplied Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 1, 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.

Clean and green synthesis of isothioureas made possible via electrochemical three-component reaction

Researchers from China develop a clean and green synthesis of isothioureas via electrochemical three-component reaction using thiols, isocyanides, and amines. This method avoids heavy metal catalysis and stoichiometric oxidants, offering advantages in energy efficiency and waste minimization.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGreen Synthesis and Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2023

Research team publishes review study of interfacial solar evaporation systems

The research team offers five recommendations for enhancing practical solar evaporation performance: introducing new energy sources, exploring novel photothermal materials, and designing innovative evaporators. They also emphasize the importance of large-scale ISE systems for practical applications like seawater desalination.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research Energy·DateApr 20, 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.

Recycling of batteries: 70% of lithium recovered

A new mechanochemical recycling method recovers up to 70 percent of lithium from battery waste, making it inexpensive, energy-efficient, and environmentally compatible. The method uses aluminum as a reducing agent and can be applied to various cathode materials.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 2023

An integrated approach to cool: how evaporation and radiation can cool the world

Researchers developed an integrated radiative and evaporative chiller (IREC) that can reduce heat inside outdoor storage items by over 9°C, achieving cooling powers of up to 700 W m–2. The technology absorbs heat from the environment through evaporation, making it a sustainable alternative to current cooling methods.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research Energy·DateMar 21, 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.

Minimizing electric vehicles’ impact on the grid

Researchers found that strategically placing charging stations, especially at workplaces and in delayed home settings, can reduce peak electricity demand, store solar energy, and conveniently meet drivers' needs. This approach could help minimize the strain on the grid and avoid costly new power plants.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateMar 15, 2023

STAR physicists track sequential 'melting' of upsilons

Physicists at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider detect sequential dissociation of three distinct upsilon variations in a hot quark-gluon plasma, offering evidence for 'deconfinement.' The findings help scientists better understand the properties of the QGP and its temperature.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 14, 2023

Propeller advance paves way for quiet, efficient electric aviation

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a propeller design optimisation method that paves the way for quiet, efficient electric aviation. The new design can reduce noise emissions by up to 5-8 dBA, comparable to going from a normal conversation voice to a quiet room.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAerospace·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 14, 2023

Novel porous materials are ideal for metal-air batteries, researchers report

Researchers have reviewed novel porous materials called metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) and covalent organic frameworks (COFs) for their potential to advance metal-air batteries. These frameworks exhibit unique molecular structures that enable high porosity with uniform distribution of catalytic sites, making reactions more predictable.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research Energy·DateMar 7, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Grasshopping robots made possible with new, improved latch control

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a latch control system that enables grasshopping robots to perform efficiently on soft substrates. The team discovered that the latch can not only regulate energy output but also mediate energy transfer between the robot and its environment, leading to improved jump performance.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateMar 2, 2023

Clear sign that QGP production 'turns off' at low energy

At the lowest collision energy, QGP production is found to be absent, with a dramatic shift in data characteristics. Higher-order statistical analysis reveals a clear absence of QGP at low energies, providing new insights into nuclear matter phases.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 27, 2023

Ramping up domestic graphite production could aid the green energy transition

The study found that the US uses mostly synthetic graphite, which is produced from fossil fuel industry by-products, while natural graphite is sourced from mines and imported. The researchers suggest increasing domestic production and recycling of graphite-containing products to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateFeb 22, 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.

More research needed to advance 2D boron-based future technologies, scientists say

Researchers emphasize the need for further study of borophene-based materials, highlighting challenges in experimental synthesis and desired properties such as mechanical compliance and ultrahigh thermal conductivity. They recommend advancing studies focused on optimizing performance in energy applications and device integration.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research Energy·DateFeb 21, 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.

Powering neutron science

Researchers at Osaka University developed a laser-driven neutron source, enabling extremely rapid elemental analysis. The study found that increasing laser intensity yields neutrons proportional to the fourth power, allowing for faster identification of elements in samples.

SourceOsaka University·JournalPhysical Review X·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2023

Breaking the temperature barrier of hydrothermal carbonization of lignocellulosic biomass

Researchers from Tsinghua University develop a new strategy to decouple temperature and pressure in hydrothermal carbonization, breaking the temperature limit. This process produces high-quality carbon microspheres with abundant oxygen-containing functional groups and good thermal stability, suitable for various applications including ...

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGreen Energy & Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

The single oil spill that can disrupt the global energy supply

A new study identifies a high-risk area in Qatar's Gulf as the most vulnerable to oil spills, which could disrupt global gas supply and cause unprecedented water shortages, compromising containment efforts.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalNature Sustainability·TypeImaging analysis·DateJan 23, 2023

Team completes review study of functionalized copper current collectors for lithium metal anodes

A team of researchers completed a comprehensive review study on functionalized copper current collectors for lithium metal anodes, revealing promising improvements in electrochemical performances. The study showed that planar modified copper foils and nanostructured 3D copper substrates can stabilize lithium nucleation and deposition, ...

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research Energy·DateJan 17, 2023

Researchers create smaller, cheaper flow batteries for clean energy

A new compact flow battery cell configuration reduces size and cost by 75%, increasing volumetric power density and enabling more efficient energy storage. The technology could revolutionize residential and commercial energy systems, with potential applications in electrolysis and fuel cells.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 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.

Digital twins and multi-access edge computing for IIoT

The study proposes an MEC-based framework to improve data delivery, energy consumption, and security in IIoT systems. The proposed solution enhances scalability, reliability, and real-time control, providing a more efficient communication environment.

SourceBeijing Zhongke Journal Publising Co. Ltd.·JournalVirtual Reality & Intelligent Hardware·DateJan 12, 2023

Converting temperature fluctuations into clean energy with novel nanoparticles and heating strategy

A team at City University of Hong Kong has developed a novel approach to converting environmental temperature fluctuations into clean chemical energy using pyroelectric catalysis. By combining pyroelectric materials with localized plasmonic heat sources, the researchers achieved significantly faster and more efficient pyro-catalytic re...

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 11, 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.

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.

CityU scientists discover a novel photophysical mechanism that has achieved record-breaking efficiency for organic photovoltaics

Researchers from City University of Hong Kong developed a novel device-engineering strategy to suppress energy conversion loss in organic photovoltaics, achieving PCE over 19%. The discovery enables OPVs to maximize photocurrent and overcome the limit of maximum achievable efficiency.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

New synthesis method enhances the electrochemical performance of lithium sulfur batteries

Researchers designed a bifunctional high entropy metal oxide/carbon nanofibers interlayer via simple electrospinning to improve lithium sulfur battery performance. The unique structure and function of the interlayer reduce shuttle effects and limit lithium polysulfides crossover, resulting in superior electrochemical performance.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGreen Energy & Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 11, 2022

Team undertakes study of two-dimensional transition metal chalcogenides

Researchers from Tsinghua University reviewed methods to modulate properties of two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) for biosensing applications. The team found that TMD-based sensors can detect a range of biomolecules, including neurotransmitters and proteins.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research Energy·DateDec 9, 2022

Tin selenide nanosheets enables to develop wearable tracking devices

Researchers have synthesized 2D tin selenide nanosheets with remarkable piezoelectricity, enabling the development of self-powered wearable health tracking devices. The synthesis technique and performance of these nanosheets were improved using chemical vapor deposition.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateDec 8, 2022

Team undertakes study of lithium deposition behavior in hard carbon hosts

A team of researchers from Tsinghua University Press has developed a strategy to tackle the challenges of lithium metal anodes using hard carbon hosts. The study found that introducing lithiophilic sites and localized high-concentration electrolytes can moderate dendrite growth and inhibit volume expansion, resulting in a dendrite-free...

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research·DateDec 8, 2022
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

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

Energy-efficient computing with tiny magnetic vortices

Researchers at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz developed a prototype that combines Brownian and reservoir computing to perform Boolean logic operations. This innovation uses metallic thin films exhibiting magnetic skyrmions to achieve energy savings through automatic system reset.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 6, 2022

Long-range information transport in antiferromagnets

Scientists at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz have developed a new class of materials for transporting spin waves over long distances in antiferromagnets. This breakthrough could significantly increase computing speed and reduce waste heat in microelectronic devices.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 6, 2022

New quantum dots study uncovers implications for biological imaging

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago synthesized semiconductor quantum dots with extended radiative lifetimes and spatially localized electrons, enabling new applications in optics and time-gated single-particle imaging. The study's findings hold promise for energy-efficient displays and biomedical research.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 5, 2022