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Four Argonne researchers earn international honors

Argonne researchers Lawrence Harding, Albert Wagner, Stephen Klippenstein, and James Miller have been inducted as fellows of The Combustion Institute. Their pioneering work has led to significant advances in understanding the chemistry of combustion. The recognition highlights the importance of U.S. Department of Energy Basic Energy Sc...

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateApr 27, 2018
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.

Battery's hidden layer revealed

Researchers deciphered the chemistry behind lithium fluoride's formation in SEI, discovering a new method to monitor hydrogen fluoride concentration. This monitoring capability is crucial for future basic science studies and commercial applications.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Catalysis·DateApr 17, 2018

A heavyweight solution for lighter-weight combat vehicles

A novel process called Friction Stir Dovetailing joins thicker aluminum alloys to steel, creating joints of superior strength and ductility. The technique inhibits intermetallic compound overgrowth, allowing for improved fuel efficiency and operational effectiveness in military combat vehicles.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalScripta Materialia·DateApr 13, 2018

Finding order in disorder demonstrates a new state of matter

Physicists have identified a new state of matter in artificial spin ice that exhibits topological ordered phases, previously found only in quantum conditions. The material appears disordered but is actually ordered in a topological form.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature Physics·DateApr 2, 2018

What a mesh

Researchers have developed a method to create linked networks of metal oxides that can improve their ability to catalyze chemical reactions or harvest energy from light. This new material has potential applications in various fields, including catalysis and electronics.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateMar 29, 2018
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 have a new way to gauge the growth of nanowires

Researchers create technique to observe defects in individual nanowires using Bragg ptychography, enabling better control over optoelectronic properties. The method provides a missing link between nanoscale defect structure and variations in strain.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·DateMar 19, 2018

The element of surprise

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have found that protactinium shares chemical similarities with both actinides and transition metals, revealing a unique intersection of their properties. This discovery could lead to novel applications for these elements and a deeper understanding of the periodic table.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 14, 2018
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.

Mapping nanoscale chemical reactions inside batteries in 3-D

Scientists at University of Illinois Chicago and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed a technique to pinpoint chemical reactions inside lithium-ion batteries. This allows them to understand how batteries operate and identify ways to optimize performance.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 2, 2018

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, March 2018

Scientists developed a model predicting methylmercury presence in small headwater ecosystems. They also discovered a new combustion strategy to increase gasoline-powered car fuel efficiency. Researchers successfully wrote precise metallic structures narrower than a cold virus for nanofabrication applications.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 1, 2018

Army-led effort demos new atomic effect for potential isotopic battery

A multinational research team led by Army scientists successfully induced a controlled release of stored isotopic energy using a physical effect involving atomic electrons. This achievement marks a step in the Army's quest for alternative energy sources for new types of batteries.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalNature·DateFeb 7, 2018
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.

Networking, data experts design a better portal for scientific discovery

Researchers have designed a new approach to share scientific data, allowing for faster and more secure access. The 'Modern Research Data Portal' architecture uses Globus and the Science DMZ to simplify data transfers, enabling scientists to collaborate more easily.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPeerJ Computer Science·DateJan 29, 2018

On the rebound

Palladium nanoparticles have been shown to repair atomic dislocations in their crystal structure after experiencing intense strain. Researchers discovered that these nanoparticles function like the human body healing from an injury, allowing them to mend and regain their original state.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 19, 2018
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Coupling experiments to theory to build a better battery

A new polymer binder allows for a doubling in lithium-sulfur battery capacity even after 100 charge cycles. Researchers designed the polymer to regulate ion transport processes and prevent sulfur degradation.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 18, 2018

Breaking bad metals with neutrons

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory used neutron scattering to study the behavior of correlated electron systems, gaining insight into material properties. The technique allowed for accurate predictions and comparison to theoretical models, enabling a more ambitious approach to discovering new materials.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJan 11, 2018

The atomic dynamics of rare everlasting electric fields

Researchers at Duke University confirm theoretical model by blasting yttrium manganite sample with neutrons at 3,000 degrees Fahrenheit. The study reveals the atomic mechanisms behind the material's rare electromagnetic properties, which could lead to breakthroughs in computing and sensor technology.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 10, 2018
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.

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, January 2018

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have made significant advancements in identifying microbes linked to endometriosis, a condition that causes painful lesions and infertility. The lab has also developed a low-power neuromorphic device capable of quickly analyzing complex data sets, promising applications in scientific research.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalMacromolecules·DateJan 3, 2018

Theorists propose conditions needed to search for new form of matter

Physicists Alexei Tsvelik and Oleg Yevtushenko provide a theoretical roadmap for discovering a 'chiral spin liquid,' a magnetically ordered state without a global direction of magnetic moments. The material must be a layered metal with specific properties, including strong response to non-uniform magnetic fields.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 18, 2017

Perking up and crimping the 'bristles' of polyelectrolyte brushes

Researchers discovered that polyelectrolyte brush bristles collapse due to the addition of powerful electrolytes but can be restored with gentler ions. This study increases understanding of these chemical brushes, which have potential applications in medicine and industry, including lubrication and medical devices.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 12, 2017
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.

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Dec. 2017

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a precision de-icing technology that uses high-resolution modeling to identify areas most vulnerable to drivers during hazardous weather conditions. The team also discovered a function of certain microbes that produces a new derivative of vitamin B12, which could enhance the e...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateDec 4, 2017

All missions on board for NASA heliophysics research

Scientists combined data from 16 NASA and LANL spacecraft to understand substorms, a phenomenon that can cause auroras, disrupt GPS communications, and damage power grids. The study revealed complex behavior during small substorms, highlighting the need for further research.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateNov 27, 2017

'Holy grail' for batteries: Solid-state magnesium battery a big step closer

Researchers at Berkeley Lab and Argonne National Laboratory have discovered a new class of solid conductors that can transport magnesium ions at unprecedented speed. This breakthrough has the potential to make solid-state magnesium-ion batteries more energy dense, safe, and fire-resistant.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 24, 2017

Argonne scientists capture several R&D 100 Awards

Argonne National Laboratory researchers have developed several groundbreaking technologies, including an oil absorbent that can clean up sub-surface oil droplets and a proactive defense mechanism to enhance computer system security. The Oleo Sponge can absorb up to 90 times its weight in oil and is reusable, while the Multiple Operatin...

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateNov 21, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Renaissance of the iron-air battery

Researchers at Forschungszentrum Jülich observe deposits forming on iron electrodes during operation, revealing a key to improving battery performance. The findings enhance energy density and capacity, paving the way for widespread adoption in mobile applications.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNano Energy·DateNov 16, 2017

Fuel cell X-ray study details effects of temperature and moisture on performance

A recent study at Berkeley Lab's Advanced Light Source used X-ray-based imaging to investigate the effects of temperature and moisture on fuel-cell performance. The research found that even slight saturation produces nearly double thermal conductivity, while water evaporation increases dramatically at 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalElectrochimica Acta·DateNov 13, 2017

CANDLE shines in 2017 HPCwire Readers' and Editors' Choice Awards

CANDLE, a scalable deep learning framework developed by Argonne's Exascale Deep Learning and Simulation Enabled Precision Medicine for Cancer project, was recognized with the award. The framework has achieved impressive results, including explaining over 92% of variance in drug response.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateNov 13, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, November 2017

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory developed a method to quickly collect building structure datasets from satellite images, supporting emergency response efforts after hurricanes. They also used neutrons to discover the molecular mechanism responsible for flow in a hydrogen-bonding liquid and studied a semiconducting material...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalZeitschrift für Physikalische Chemie/International journal of research in physical chemistry and chemical physics·DateNov 2, 2017

Mapping the microbiome of...everything

The Earth Microbiome Project has cataloged over 27,000 samples from diverse environments worldwide, generating the first reference database of bacteria colonizing the planet. The project identifies unique microbial sequences, revealing patterns in microbial community composition across environments and geography.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature·DateNov 1, 2017

Experiment provides deeper look into the nature of neutrinos

The CUORE experiment has set the most precise limits yet on a theorized process to explain the universe's matter-antimatter imbalance. The detector, cooled to record-low temperatures, will collect nearly 100 times more data in the coming years.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 23, 2017
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.

Sandia's Direct Numerical Simulations enhance combustion efficiency, reduces pollution

Researchers discovered novel behavior of cool flames in diesel combustion, accelerating ignition kernel formation and improving engine design efficiency. The study used Direct Numerical Simulations to resolve all turbulence scales and has the potential to optimize engine design for cleaner burning engines.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalProceedings of the Combustion Institute·DateOct 12, 2017

Machine learning translates 'hidden' information to reveal chemistry in action

Scientists have developed a new machine learning method that can analyze x-ray data to reveal the structures and environments of catalysts during reactions. This allows for real-time analysis and optimization of reaction conditions, potentially leading to improved catalyst performance and faster production of desired products.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateOct 10, 2017

Forget about it

Researchers develop a quantum perovskite material that exhibits adaptive response to repeated proton insertion and removal, resembling brain's desensitization. This property enables effective programming of the material like a computer.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 10, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Climate solution in soil?

Stanford researchers found that managed soil can trap more carbon dioxide than previously estimated, potentially offsetting future emissions. Improving land management practices like reduced tillage and perennial crops could increase soil's carbon storage.

SourceStanford University·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateOct 5, 2017

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, October 2017

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed a method to detect network intrusions in connected and autonomous vehicles, with near-perfect detection rates in initial testing. Additionally, scientists have created a technique for making ultrafast measurements using atomic force microscopy, allowing for high-resolution ima...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 5, 2017

Hunt is over for one of the 'top 50 most-wanted fungi'

Researchers characterized a mysterious fungus found in North Carolina's pine forests and discovered its home in the fungal tree of life. The study highlights the potential value of environmental sequencing to guide taxonomic and ecological discovery.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalMycologia·DateSep 28, 2017

Atomistic simulations go the distance on metal strength

The team demonstrated that direct atomistic simulations can predict metal strength, revealing crystal defects and twinning mechanisms. This research provides a wealth of observations on fundamental mechanisms of dynamic response and quantitative parameters needed for strength models.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateSep 27, 2017

Turbocharging engine design

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory used the Mira supercomputer to simulate over 2,000 engine design combinations, reducing design time from months to weeks. The simulations identified two optimized fuel-engine concepts that can improve fuel efficiency substantially.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateSep 27, 2017
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.

Berkeley Lab aims to strengthen the cybersecurity of the grid

Berkeley Lab is developing algorithms to monitor the grid for irregularities and dispatch safe settings to counter potential cyber attacks. The project aims to enhance grid resilience while maintaining security. It partners with industry leaders and utilities to leverage best practices and standards.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·DateSep 26, 2017

With extra sugar, leaves get fat too

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory found that increasing sugar levels in plant leaves increases oil content, which could lead to the production of biofuels and useful chemicals. By selectively breeding plants with specific traits, they successfully tipped the balance of plant metabolism to favor higher oil production.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateSep 25, 2017

Nanoparticle supersoap creates 'bijel' with potential as sculptable fluid

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have created a new two-dimensional film that can direct non-mixing liquids into exotic architectures, offering potential for soft robotics, liquid circuitry and energy conversion. The 'bijel' substance is made of polymers and nanoparticles and has been simplified to be easier to produce.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 25, 2017
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Real-Time Super Lab to boost electric grid's future

Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory and Colorado State University are integrating electrical grids globally to address disruptions. The Real-Time Super Lab concept shows how electricity can be rerouted across vast distances to prevent large-scale blackouts.

SourceColorado State University·DateSep 18, 2017

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, September 2017

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory are developing new materials to repair heavy-duty vehicle engines, reducing energy consumption and extending their lifespan. The lab is also working on smart home solutions to optimize energy usage in homes, using advanced algorithms and sensors to collect data on energy demand.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateSep 5, 2017

Researchers report breakthrough in magnesium batteries

Researchers have discovered a new design for magnesium batteries, increasing storage capacity to 400 mAh/g compared to earlier versions. The breakthrough involves inserting magnesium chloride into a titanium disulfide host, allowing for faster diffusion and higher energy density.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 24, 2017
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.

ShAPEing the future of magnesium car parts

Researchers at the Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory have developed a new process that makes it possible to produce magnesium alloys for structural car parts. The ShAPE process enhances the material's energy absorption and ductility, making it a viable alternative to aluminum in certain applications.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalMaterials Science and Engineering A·DateAug 22, 2017

Nanotechnology moves from the clean room to the classroom

High school students can now explore nanoscience with the help of Argonne National Laboratory's Center for Nanoscale Materials and industry partner United Scientific Supplies, Inc. Students can grow copper wires at the nano-scale and micro-scale using technology developed by the Center.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·DateAug 21, 2017

Superconductivity research reveals potential new state of matter

Researchers report finding similarities among classes of materials with phenomena like electronic symmetry breaking, which helps establish essential ingredients for novel functionalities. A new nematic-like state is observed in heavy-fermion superconductor CeRhIn5, correlating with unconventional superconductivity.

SourceDOE/Los Alamos National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateAug 16, 2017

'Organismic learning' mimics some aspects of human thought

Researchers have developed a new learning algorithm that mimics the human brain's ability to forget unimportant memories, enabling computers to learn and forget in a proper way. This technology, called organismoids, uses quantum materials to create devices that can adapt and change their behavior over time.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 15, 2017
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

PNNL scientist Jiwen Fan receives DOE Early Career Research award

PNNL scientist Jiwen Fan has received a $2.5 million DOE Early Career Research award to investigate severe thunderstorms in the central United States. The research aims to understand how storms form, change, and are influenced by factors such as urban heat islands and wildfires.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateAug 14, 2017

Landscapes give latitude to 2-D material designers

Rice University researchers have developed a method to control defects in 2-D materials, which can enhance their electronic, magnetic and optical properties. By growing atomic-thin sheets on curved substrates, they can manipulate the appearance of grain boundaries, which are critical in determining material behavior.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 9, 2017

Incomplete drought recovery may be the new normal

A new study suggests that drought recovery times will increase due to climate change, potentially leading to widespread tree deaths and ecosystem disruption. The factors contributing to this increase include temperature extremes, precipitation, and carbon dioxide concentrations.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalNature·DateAug 9, 2017
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.