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A positive spin—electrospinning and electrospraying synergism for the nanomaterials industry

The electrospinning and electrospraying synergism (ESS) technology has the potential to revolutionize various sectors such as bioengineering, textile technology, medical treatment, and energy conversion. By combining these two twin-tech methods, researchers can create complex structures with unique properties.

Fermentation revolution? Trash becomes treasure as bio-waste yields valuable acetone and isopropanol

Researchers at Delft University of Technology have developed pioneering advancements in the purification of isopropanol and acetone from waste gases through engineered bacteria. The novel process shows high-purity yields with recoveries over 99.2%, marking a significant step forward in sustainable industrial fermentation.

SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalJournal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology·DateJan 31, 2024

Decarbonizing the world’s industries

The study found that decarbonising the industrial sector is technically possible with a mix of high and low-maturity technologies. Established carbon capture and storage technologies can save nearly 85% of emissions, while electric technologies can theoretically reduce emissions by 40-100%.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalJoule·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 31, 2024

Startups spark more innovations in emerging industries than established companies do

New research from Texas McCombs found that startups have an outsized number of future citations, sparking more innovation in emerging industries like photovoltaic cells. Startups' inventions are more likely to be cited by universities and companies due to resource disparities, academic citations, and prior lawsuits.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalStrategic Management Journal·TypeObservational study·DateJan 30, 2024

Innovative school Citizen Science project involving over 1000 scientists, 110 schools, 800 samples and U.K.’s synchrotron published in CrystEngComm

A systematic study of this scale has never been conducted at Diamond or anywhere else in the world. The project involved over 1000 scientists, 800 samples and 110 UK secondary schools, analyzing how different additives affect calcium carbonate formation.

SourceDiamond Light Source·JournalCrystEngComm·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJan 29, 2024

Lights, detector, action!

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a novel method for quantum infrared spectroscopy, generating a wider range of infrared photons with improved sensitivity. This breakthrough enables compact, high-performance scanners for various applications in environmental monitoring, medicine, and security.

SourceKyoto University·JournalOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2024

A new design improves water decontamination via plasma jet

Researchers at the University of Córdoba designed a new plasma reactor that generates reactive species capable of degrading organic compounds and killing microorganisms in water. The new configuration expands the applicability of this type of plasmas, enabling efficient removal of high concentrations of dyes from water in minutes.

SourceUniversity of Córdoba·JournalChemosphere·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 24, 2024

Breakthrough research enhances stability and efficiency of perovskite solar cells

Researchers developed a chemically protective cathode interlayer using amine-functionalized perylene diimide, which stabilizes perovskite solar cells. The novel solution-processed PDINN cathode interlayer achieved impressive performance with over 81% retention and record-high bias-free solar hydrogen production rate.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateJan 22, 2024

Hiring globally mobile, highly specialized workers after their firm’s failure can be a strategic move, despite a loss of legitimacy

New research in Global Strategy Journal finds that laid-off workers with high specialization skills may experience lower legitimacy and bargaining power after being laid off by a failed employer. Managers can still hire valuable but low-legitimacy candidates at a lower cost, suggesting a strategic opportunity.

SourceStrategic Management Society·JournalGlobal Strategy Journal·TypeCase study·DateJan 19, 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.

Chung-Ang University researchers develop a low-cost catalyst for green hydrogen production

Researchers at Chung-Ang University have developed a low-cost catalyst for green hydrogen production through proton exchange membrane water electrolysis. The new catalyst, SA Zn-RuO2, has improved stability and reactivity compared to commercial RuO2, with reduced energy consumption and increased durability.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalJournal of Energy Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 17, 2024

Going beyond plastic: Chung-Ang University team explores tara gum as a green polymer

Researchers from Chung-Ang University have discovered tara gum as a promising sustainable material for biodegradable packaging and drug delivery systems. The study examines the modification methods of tara gum polysaccharides, including their applications in pH-sensitive food packaging and controlled-release drug formulations.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalCarbohydrate Polymers·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 15, 2024

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

New transactions of nonferrous metals society of china study uncovers low-temperature deformation mechanism of pure titanium

Researchers investigate grain size and temperature effects on Ti deformation at extremely low temperatures, finding that cryogenic temperatures trigger deformation twinning, boosting strength and ductility. The study proposes a modified Hall-Petch relationship to explain strengthening mechanisms at cryogenic temperatures.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalTransactions of Nonferrous Metals Society of China·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

Study finds high levels of job satisfaction among copy editors, little negative effects from pandemic

A new study from the University of Kansas found that copy editors experienced high job satisfaction despite the COVID-19 pandemic, with many reporting a passion for their work. The researchers also found that the pandemic did not significantly affect burnout or role overload among participants.

SourceUniversity of Kansas·JournalJournalism & Mass Communication Quarterly·TypeSurvey·DateJan 10, 2024

A novel strategy for extracting white mycelial pulp from fruiting mushroom bodies

A team of researchers at Shinshu University has successfully extracted mycelial pulp and fibers from fruiting mushroom bodies using sunlight, preserving their intricate mycelial structures. The fibers show excellent formability and potential applications in packaging materials, textiles, and soundproofing.

SourceShinshu University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2024

Study from ECNU Review of Education redevelops framework for teaching artificial intelligence and robotics

A study redevelops a framework for teaching artificial intelligence and robotics to preschool children, providing five big ideas that can be grasped by young kids. The framework aims to prepare children to understand and use AI tools effectively, promoting healthy and responsible learning in the rapidly developing digital society.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalECNU Review of Education·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 8, 2024

Researchers unveil useful strategies for sustainable gas storage and separation with clathrate hydrates

A new study by GIST researchers provides efficient hydrogen storage solutions using clathrate hydrates, overcoming limitations such as limited gas storage capacities and slow formation rates. The study offers crucial insights for developing clathrate hydrate-based technologies for carbon dioxide separation and hydrogen storage.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAccounts of Chemical Research·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 8, 2024

Using static electricity to enhance biomedical implant durability

A research team developed electrostatic materials capable of responding to weak ultrasound, generating static electricity for implantable neurological stimulators. The technology eliminates the need for batteries, reduces device size, and minimizes strain on the human body. Experimental validation confirms its effectiveness in animal m...

Breakthrough in organic semiconductor synthesis paves the way for advanced electronic devices

Researchers at UNIST have achieved a significant breakthrough in organic semiconductor synthesis by synthesizing a novel molecule called BNBN anthracene. This derivative exhibits unique properties, including precise modulation of electronic properties without structural changes.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 29, 2023