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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.

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.

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.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.