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Chemists create artificial protein that peers into Earth’s chemical past

Researchers at Ohio State University have developed an artificial protein that could provide new insights into chemical evolution on early Earth. The protein, inspired by a key enzyme in energy production, has been shown to build molecules one step at a time, shedding light on how organic chemistry matured on the planet.

SourceOhio State University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 20, 2022

Lithiophilic seeds and rigid arrays synergistic induced dendrite-free and stable Li anode towards long-life lithium-oxygen batteries

Researchers prepared lithiophilic aluminum oxide nanoparticles to enhance rigidity of carbon nanotube arrays, inhibiting dendrite growth and stabilizing the SEI film. The resulting battery exhibited enhanced redox kinetics and long cycle life.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateJul 20, 2022
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.

Tongji University and Beihang University Teamwork: New battery health evaluation indicator for quantitative evaluation of nonlinear aging—SoNA

A new battery health assessment indicator SoNA was proposed to evaluate nonlinear aging in lithium batteries. The research developed a multidimensional grading system combining traditional SoH with SoNA to comprehensively assess battery safety and nonlinearity.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateJun 29, 2022

Chung-Ang University researchers develop novel heterostructure catalyst for effective hydrogen generation from water splitting

Scientists at Chung-Ang University have created a new catalyst that can efficiently generate hydrogen from water without the need for expensive noble metals. The innovative heterostructured material boosts both the half-reactions, improving its overall performance and paving the way for large-scale industrial applications.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 2022

Organic water splitters get a boost

A KAUST-led team developed organic semiconductor-based photocatalysts to store solar energy as clean hydrogen fuel. These catalysts can absorb visible light and generate long-lived charges, improving efficiency for hydrogen evolution.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Energy·DateJun 9, 2022

Scientists synthesize material for fuel cells

Researchers at Ural Federal University have synthesized a proton conductor with high electrical conductivity, which could become the basis for solid oxide fuel cells. The new material is potentially cost-effective and exhibits higher electrical conductivity than other solid-state conductors.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateMay 30, 2022

Hydrogen production method opens up clean energy possibilities

A new energy-efficient way to produce hydrogen gas from ethanol and water has been developed, enabling on-site production at fueling stations. This innovation could make clean hydrogen fuel a more viable alternative for gasoline-powered cars, reducing the need for hazardous high-pressure hydrogen gas transportation.

SourceWashington State University·JournalApplied Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2022
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.

New tech aims to drive down costs of hydrogen fuel

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new technique for extracting hydrogen gas from liquid carriers, making it faster, less expensive and more energy efficient. The new method uses sunlight and a reusable photocatalyst to release hydrogen molecules, reducing the need for rhodium and lowering production costs.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalChemSusChem·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 23, 2022

400 GW wind, solar power per year to meet 1.5 C Paris Agreement

To achieve the EU's climate neutrality goal by 2050 with a maximum temperature increase of 1.5 degrees Celsius, a massive rollout of solar and wind power is required, along with investments in Power-to-X technologies and carbon capture. The model suggests installing 400 GW of new solar and wind energy capacity every year from 2025-2035.

SourceAarhus University·JournalJoule·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 18, 2022

Graphene-wrapped zeolite membranes for fast hydrogen separation

Researchers have developed a new type of separation membrane that can separate hydrogen from methane at speeds 100 times faster than conventional membranes. The graphene-wrapped zeolite membrane achieves a high separation factor of 245, making it suitable for energy-saving separation technologies in various industries.

SourceShinshu University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2022

Lights, catalyst, reaction! Converting CO2 to formic acid using an alumina-supported, iron-based compound

Researchers from Tokyo Tech developed an alumina-supported iron-based catalyst that efficiently converts CO2 into formic acid with up to 90% selectivity. The new catalyst's excellent recyclability and low-cost nature make it a promising candidate for reducing atmospheric CO2 levels and providing energy via combustion.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 16, 2022
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.

Green technology breakthrough: Hematite photocatalyst using sunlight energy simultaneously produces hydrogen and hydrogen peroxide

A breakthrough in green technology has successfully produced both hydrogen gas and hydrogen peroxide simultaneously from sunlight and water using a hematite photocatalyst. This innovation could lead to a solar water-splitting utilization system with greater added value, enabling the widespread adoption of carbon-neutral energy sources.

SourceKobe University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2022

Key to improved green tech efficiency found in simple acid treatment

Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory developed a simple acid treatment to improve the efficiency of protonic ceramic electrochemical cells (PCECs), overcoming long-standing challenges. The treatment increases the surface area between the electrode and electrolyte, allowing for more efficient flow of hydrogen atoms and improved cell...

SourceDOE/Idaho National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 21, 2022

Extract from a common kitchen spice could be key to greener, more efficient fuel cells

Researchers at Clemson University and SSSIHL discovered a novel way to combine curcumin and gold nanoparticles to create an electrode that efficiently converts ethanol into electricity. The discovery brings replacing hydrogen as a fuel cell feedstock one step closer, with potential applications in sensors and supercapacitors.

SourceClemson University·JournalNano Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 18, 2022

National Cheng Kung University researchers present new solution for wastewater remediation

Researchers have developed an eco-friendly and reusable solution for removing toxic synthetic dyes from wastewater using nanocomposite-based hydrogels. The new material, made from carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and graphene oxide, demonstrates high adsorption capacities and retains its effectiveness even after multiple cycles of use.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·DateApr 14, 2022
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.

Discovery: A strain of algae may accelerate the industrial transition from the use of polluting gray hydrogen to environmentally friendly green hydrogen

A new strain of algae has been identified that can produce green hydrogen gas via photosynthesis on an industrial scale. This breakthrough could accelerate the transition to environmentally friendly green hydrogen and reduce pollution. The researchers also plan to develop methods to increase production rates and reduce costs.

SourceTel-Aviv University·JournalCell Reports·DateApr 10, 2022

A new, inexpensive catalyst speeds the production of oxygen from water

Researchers at MIT have developed a new, inexpensive catalyst material that can produce oxygen from water, potentially replacing rare metals and reducing the cost of producing carbon-neutral fuels. The material, made of abundant components, allows for precise tuning and matches or exceeds the performance of conventional catalysts.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 25, 2022

What will a CO2-neutral Switzerland cost us?

A study published in Frontiers in Energy Research calculates the costs of a CO2-neutral Switzerland, finding that three different energy systems would require significant investments and increased energy costs. The most efficient option is electrifying the entire energy supply, but this comes with the challenge of storing enough renewa...

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalFrontiers in Energy Research·TypeCase study·DateFeb 17, 2022

A boost to sulfur metabolism

A recent study by ITQB NOVA scientists uncovered the crucial role of a small marker protein, DsrD, in increasing metabolic activity for sulfate respiration. The findings suggest that DsrD acts as an allosteric activator of the DsrAB dissimilatory sulfite reductase, enhancing energy efficiency in microbial metabolism.

SourceInstituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier da Universidade NOVA de Lisboa ITQB NOVA·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 17, 2022
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.

The path to renewable fuel just got easier

A research team at PNNL has developed a system that converts waste carbon from sewage, food crops, and algae into fuels while removing impurities. The electrocatalytic oxidation fuel recovery system generates hydrogen to power its own operation, making it potentially carbon-neutral.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalApplied Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2022

Confined Ni–In intermetallic alloy nanocatalyst for methane dry reforming

Researchers have developed a new nanocatalyst for the dry reforming of methane, overcoming coking resistance with its confined core-shell structure. The catalyst's superior carbon resistance is attributed to the confinement and electron transfer between In and Ni.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateJan 20, 2022

A catalyst for more efficient green hydrogen production

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed a new water-splitting process and material that maximize the efficiency of producing carbon-free green hydrogen. The hybrid catalysts show superior performance for both oxygen and hydrogen splitting, making it an affordable and accessible option for industrial partners.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalApplied Catalysis·TypeObservational study·DateJan 14, 2022
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.

Load up the hydrogen but hold the carbon

A Kyoto University-led team has created a novel hydrogen plant design that harnesses fully renewable resources to produce clean hydrogen with minimal associated CO2 emissions. The SABI-Hydrogen system uses solar heating and biomass gasification to produce hydrogen, resulting in an emission rate of only 1.04kg CO2/kg hydrogen produced.

SourceKyoto University·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 14, 2022

Nano-chocolates that store hydrogen

Researchers have created nanoparticles that can store hydrogen, reducing the need for pressurized tanks and cooling. The discovery could enable climate-friendly fuels and production methods for airplanes, ships, and steel.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalACS Nano·DateDec 27, 2021

Hydrogen produced from offshore wind in China can help Japan reach its greenhouse gas emissions goals

A team of researchers explored the possibility of producing hydrogen from offshore wind in China and delivering it to Japan at a cost competitive with the country's future projections. The study found that Chinese-produced hydrogen could supply Japan's net-zero transition needs by 2030, even under a high-cost scenario.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 1, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Apples to apples: How similarity theory could boost fuel cell research

A comprehensive review of similarity theory in PEMFC research reveals its potential to accelerate progress. The study highlights the benefits of using dimensionless analysis to compare results and reduce testing efforts. However, challenges remain in developing integrated performance criteria.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalEnergy Storage and Saving·TypeLiterature review·DateNov 30, 2021

Quantum confinement discovered in porous nano-photocatalyst

A research team discovered a quantum confinement effect in a 3D-ordered macroporous structure of BiVO4, enabling hydrogen production under visible light. The study found that the 3DOM structure had higher photocatalysis efficiency and produced more oxygen than its plate-like counterpart.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalACS Energy Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2021

Nanoporous polymers promise advancements in water purification and sensors

Researchers developed new materials with enhanced adsorption capabilities, promising advancements in hydrogen storage, oil spill cleanup, and sensor development. The polymerization mechanism and kinetics were analyzed, revealing a significant impact of solvation on reactivity.

SourceKazan Federal University·JournalPolymer Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2021
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Reaction-dependent coffee-ring-regulating method in spray-coating perovskite

A new approach controls the coffee ring effect in spray-coating, leading to high-performance perovskite solar cells with 19.17% power conversion efficiency. The reaction-dependent method uses solvent selection to regulate solute distribution and achieve uniform films.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateNov 3, 2021

A new single-atom catalyst can produce hydrogen from urea at an exceptional rate

Researchers developed a strategy to achieve ultra-high loading of single metal atom sites on cobalt oxide support, stabilizing Rh and other noble metals. The strained surface showed exceptional UOR activity and stability, requiring lower working voltage than commercial Pt and Rh catalysts.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Cheaper hydrogen production

Researchers have developed a novel electrode material based on cobalt and nickel that can efficiently produce hydrogen through water and urea electrolysis. The phosphorus-doped cobalt-nickel-sulfide nanoparticles demonstrate high activity and stability, reducing the overall voltage of the electrolysis cell.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2021

Transforming ‘sewer gas’ into clean hydrogen fuel

Scientists have developed a chemical process that converts hydrogen sulfide, a toxic gas emitted from manure piles and sewer pipes, into hydrogen fuel. The process uses iron sulfide with a trace amount of molybdenum as an additive and requires relatively little energy.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSustainable Chemical Engineering·DateSep 9, 2021

Improved water splitting method: A green energy innovation by Pusan National University

Researchers at Pusan National University have developed a novel electrocatalyst that can effectively produce hydrogen and oxygen from water at low cost. The catalyst, composed of transition metal phosphates, achieves high surface area and fast charge transfer, making it suitable for commercial on-site production of hydrogen.

SourcePusan National University·JournalApplied Catalysis B Environment and Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 30, 2021

Heavily enriched: An energy-efficient way of enriching hydrogen isotopes in silicon

Researchers at Nagoya City University find a fourfold increase in surface deuterium atoms on nanocrystalline silicon, paving the way for sustainable deuterium enrichment protocols. The efficient exchange reaction could lead to more durable semiconductor technology and potentially purify tritium contaminated water.

SourceNagoya City University·JournalPhysical Review Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 16, 2021
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Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Scientists offered using methanol in power generation for electric cars

Researchers at Ural Federal University have created a technology to generate energy for electric car engines using methanol, resulting in high efficiency and minimal emissions. The method uses synthesis gas produced from methanol, which is then fed into an electrochemical generator based on solid oxide fuel cells.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateJul 21, 2021

Electrokinetic proton transport in triple conducting oxides as key descriptor for highly efficient protonic ceramic fuel cells

Researchers developed a new method to quantify proton kinetic properties of triple conducting oxides (TCOs), revealing two orders of magnitude higher proton tracer diffusion coefficient. This led to improved electrochemical performance for protonic ceramic fuel cells, with recorded values exceeding previous benchmarks.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJul 5, 2021

Defect and interface engineering for e-NRR under ambient conditions

The review discusses defect and interface engineering for e-NRR electrocatalysts, emphasizing active sites and intrinsic mechanisms. It highlights the potential strategies to develop more advanced NRR electrocatalysts, promoting the creation of more efficient catalysts for electrochemical nitrogen reduction.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateJun 28, 2021
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.

Producing hydrogen using less energy

An international research team has described a complete reaction path for electrocatalytic hydrogen generation using a newly produced compound inspired by nature. The findings provide new insights into the catalysis process and enable more efficient production of hydrogen as a sustainable energy source.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalACS Catalysis·DateJun 22, 2021

Cheap alloy rivals expensive platinum to boost fuel cells

A team of researchers from USTC developed a novel Ni-W-Cu alloy, demonstrating 4.31 times higher efficiency than traditional platinum-based catalysts in alkaline medium hydrogen oxidation. The alloy maintains high activity for up to 20 hours and shows excellent resistance to CO poisoning.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 28, 2021

AI-aided search for single-atom-alloy catalysts yields more than 200 promising candidates

Researchers at Skoltech developed a new algorithm to identify over 200 previously unknown single-atom-alloy catalysts with improved stability and performance. The AI-powered approach uses machine learning models to extract key parameters from computational data, providing a recipe for finding the best SAACs for specific applications.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 19, 2021

Dead lithium: The culprit of low Coulombic efficiency with LIBs

Dead lithium, comprising active and inactive Li components, leads to reduced cycle life in LIBs. Researchers propose design principles to minimize dead lithium formation for higher Coulombic efficiency.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateApr 28, 2021
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.

Stabilizing electrochemical interfaces using boron Lewis acids

Researchers stabilized electrochemical interfaces using boron Lewis acids, resulting in ultralow leak current and improved cyclic stability. The study demonstrates potential for designing high-performance boron-doped carbon materials towards energy storage applications.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·DateApr 26, 2021

New porous material promising for making renewable energy from water

Researchers at Linköping University have developed nanoporous cubic silicon carbide that efficiently traps and harvests sunlight to split water into hydrogen gas. The material's high charge-separation efficiency boosts water splitting efficiency, making it a promising approach for producing renewable energy.

SourceLinköping University·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 22, 2021

Producing more sustainable hydrogen with composite polymer dots

Researchers at Uppsala University have developed a new method to produce sustainable hydrogen using composite polymer nanoparticles. The 'polymer dots' showed promising performance and stability in laboratory tests, with a 7% efficiency rate at 600 nanometres.

SourceUppsala University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateFeb 12, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Making hydrogen energy with the common nickel

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have developed a highly efficient nickel-based catalyst system that produces high-purity hydrogen fuel with reduced overvoltage. The catalyst combines earth-abundant nickel with oxophilic transition metal elements to optimize adsorption abilities.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 12, 2021

Speeding toward improved hydrogen fuel production

Researchers have designed an effective material for speeding up the extraction of hydrogen from alcohols, using earth-abundant metals instead of precious ones. The catalyst, made from tiny clusters of nickel metal, accelerates the reaction efficiently and cleanly.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 21, 2020