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A new quantitative rule for designing better batteries

Researchers have discovered a key factor that determines whether a lithium-ion battery can charge and discharge reversibly, enabling the rational design of electrolytes. The new metric enables efficient prediction of an electrolyte's suitability and accelerates improvements in battery performance.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 16, 2025

A fix for frost: Engineers use electricity to zap ice without heat or chemicals

Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a new method for removing frost from surfaces using electrostatic defrosting (EDF), which can remove up to 75% of the frost without the need for heat or chemicals. The approach uses high voltage to polarize the frost, creating an electric field that detaches microscopic ice crystals.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalSmall Methods·DateNov 11, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Hexagonal electrohydraulic modules shape-shift into versatile robots

Scientists at the Max Planck Institute developed hexagon-shaped robotic components that can be snapped together into high-speed robots with rearrangeable capabilities. The modules feature artificial muscles and magnets for quick connections, enabling rapid changes in geometry and motion.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2024

Innovative approach for synthesizing common plastics using remote spark discharge

Researchers have successfully synthesized high-purity polystyrene and polymethyl methacrylate using a novel method involving remote spark discharge treatment. This approach uses Tesla coil-generated monomer radicals as polymerization initiators, enabling external spark discharge treatment without a counter electrode.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalNext Materials·DateAug 5, 2024

A high-boost and high-efficiency DC power converter

The new circuit design uses resonant tank circuits to store energy during switching periods, reducing losses and increasing efficiency. It also employs a planar transformer for compactness and good thermal performance. The prototype achieved an unprecedented 91.3% energy efficiency and reduced electromagnetic noise.

SourceKobe University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Power Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 1, 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.

Freeze charges in flames

Researchers at KAUST studied the use of high voltages to control charged particles in flames, which could lead to improved flame stability and reduced soot formation. The team developed a simulation to understand this phenomenon and tested its predictions by studying a flame inside a cavity exposed to electric fields of up to 2,500 volts.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 13, 2023

Renewing COVID masks

Researchers from The University of Tokyo have created a machine that can recharge N95 respirators and surgical masks to 97% efficiency. By applying a uniform voltage distribution, the device restores the mask's electrostatic charge, increasing its effectiveness.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalHeliyon·DateApr 26, 2023

Stabilizing lithium-ion batteries with microbially synthesized electrolyte additive

Researchers from Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology have developed a sustainable, eco-friendly compound to stabilize high-energy density lithium-ion batteries. The microbially synthesized pyrazine diamine compound significantly improves battery performance, reducing degradation and increasing operating potential.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 30, 2022
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.

Record-breaking, ultrafast devices step to protecting the grid from EMPs

Scientists at Sandia National Laboratories have developed a tiny device that can shunt excess electricity in a few billionths of a second, protecting the nation's electric grid from electromagnetic pulses. The diode operates at a record-breaking 6,400 volts and has potential to operate up to 20,000 volts.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalIEEE Transactions on Electron Devices·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 15, 2022

Developing high-performance MXene electrodes for next-generation powerful battery

Scientists from City University of Hong Kong successfully developed battery-like electrochemical Nb2CTx MXene electrodes with stable voltage output and high energy density. The findings break the performance bottleneck of MXene devices, exhibiting superior rate capability, durable cyclic performance, and high energy density.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2021

New nanotransistors keep their cool at high voltages

Researchers at EPFL have developed a new transistor design that reduces resistance and heat dissipation in high-power systems. The innovative technology uses multi-channel designs and gallium nitride nanowires to improve conversion efficiencies.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Electronics·DateMar 25, 2021

A shock to the PPE system

A team of researchers at the University of Tokyo has developed a method to recharge sterilized N95 masks by exposing them to high-voltage electricity, regaining their static charge and filtering ability. This innovative technique could help meet the huge demand for protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalSoft Matter·DateDec 17, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

New method can selectively remove micropollutants from water

A new method developed at MIT can selectively remove even tiny amounts of contamination from water using an electrochemical process. The approach addresses key limitations of conventional methods and is highly selective, making it a promising solution for environmental remediation and water purification systems.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateMay 10, 2017

Organic electronics can use power from socket

Researchers at Linköping University have developed an organic converter that enables the use of electricity from a wall socket to drive organic light-emitting devices and charge supercapacitors. This innovation paves the way for flexible, thin, cost-effective, and eco-friendly solutions in electronics.

SourceLinköping University·JournalOrganic Electronics·DateMar 21, 2017

New cost-effective silicon carbide high voltage switch created

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a high-voltage and high-frequency silicon carbide power switch that is cost-effective and efficient. The FREEDM Super-Cascode switch can operate over a wide range of temperatures and frequencies, making it suitable for applications in medium- and high-voltage power devices.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·DateOct 6, 2016

X-ray imaging reveals secrets in battery materials

Researchers used X-ray imaging and data analysis to study the mechanical properties of a cathode material called LNMO spinel. The study found that defects within the material move around when charged, causing changes in strain fields. This unique behavior may be used to design new battery materials with improved performance.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·DateJun 18, 2015
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.

Power hungry

The US electric grid is complex and vulnerable to failure, particularly with aging EHV transformers. The new 'Recovery Transformer' program aims to develop a modular, smaller, and lighter alternative that can be easily transported and installed.

SourceUS Department of Homeland Security - Science and Technology·DateMar 2, 2012

A shocking surprise: High voltage + rats = ozone, reopens power-line debate

A new study links high-voltage electromagnetic fields to the production of ozone in the air surrounding animals, potentially posing a health risk. The researchers found that rats exposed to corona discharge produced significantly higher levels of ozone than those without exposure.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalBioelectromagnetics·DateFeb 9, 2004