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Researchers discover a surprising way to jump-start battery performance

Charging lithium-ion batteries at high currents just before they leave the factory increases average lifespan by 50% and decreases initial charging time from 10 hours to 20 minutes. Researchers used machine learning to pinpoint changes in battery electrodes that account for this increase in performance.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalJoule·DateAug 29, 2024

Researchers shed light on how to make photopolymerization much more efficient

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a novel strategy to increase the efficiency of photopolymerization reactions by leveraging dynamic UV lighting. This technique produces heavier polymer chains with reduced energy consumption, offering potential for sustainable industrial processes and polymeric materials.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalMacromolecules·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 19, 2024

Reducing operation qualification time and cost in additive manufacturing

A research project, ACCELERATE, aims to significantly reduce operational qualification time and cost in additive manufacturing by improving validation through detailed tasks and documentation. The project will tackle various aspects of AM operations, including facility controls, operator training, software configuration, and process mo...

SourceTexas A&M University·DateAug 13, 2024

Framing sustainability strategies for the enactment of corporate actions with positive macro-level impact: Evidence from a developing country

Five pioneering firms in agriculture, manufacturing, and pharma retail have demonstrated businesses can catalyze social and environmental change. They address complex issues using scientific methods, partner with NGOs, and prioritize purpose alignment.

SourceEscuela Superior Politecnica del Litoral·JournalBusiness Strategy and the Environment·TypeCase study·DateAug 12, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Eco-conscious fashionistas hampered by geographical barriers to return clothing

A new study reveals that eco-friendly activewear companies' post-consumer circular economy policies are hindered by geography, making them ineffective for global customers. The research found that many companies have take-back schemes but restrict them to domestic customers or specific locations, limiting their environmental impact.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalCambridge Journal of Regions Economy and Society·DateAug 11, 2024

Finding pearls in the mud: eco-friendly tungsten recovery from semiconductor waste

Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have unveiled an eco-friendly method to extract rare metals from semiconductor waste, recovering precious tungsten and assessing its economic viability. The bioleaching process, using a fungus to dissolve metals, is found to be 7% cheaper than traditional methods.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateAug 7, 2024

Tackling industrial emissions begins at the chemical reaction

Researchers at the University of Sydney have proposed a new way to reduce industrial emissions by utilizing liquid metals in chemical reactions. This approach aims to decrease energy requirements and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceUniversity of Sydney·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateJul 25, 2024

New research shows a frictionless state can be achieved at macroscale

A revolutionary new paper from SUNY Poly demonstrates macroscale superlubricity using carbon-coated metallic surfaces, reducing friction by up to 99.97% and enabling significant cost savings and environmental benefits. The study's findings have far-reaching implications for various industries.

SourceSUNY Polytechnic Institute·JournalApplied Materials Today·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 15, 2024
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.

iFAB awarded $51 million EDA Tech Hubs grant to propel Central Illinois as a biomanufacturing leader

The Illinois Fermentation and Agriculture Biomanufacturing (iFAB) Tech Hub has been awarded a $51 million EDA grant to position Central Illinois as a global leader in biomanufacturing and precision fermentation. The grant will support the growth of biomanufacturing businesses, creating jobs and driving economic growth.

SourceUniversity of Illinois College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences·DateJul 2, 2024

Chinese cities outsourced on others’ efforts to cut carbon emissions

Researchers found that 240 Chinese cities benefit from carbon mitigation efforts of other cities, with weak beneficiaries having stronger connections to upstream heavy industry cities. Effective emission reduction requires policies addressing distinct city challenges and opportunities.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Cities·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 27, 2024

Simple new process stores CO2 in concrete without compromising strength

A Northwestern University-led team of engineers has discovered a new way to store carbon dioxide (CO2) in concrete without compromising its strength and durability. The process achieved a CO2 sequestration efficiency of up to 45% and resulted in concrete with uncompromised properties.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalCommunications Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2024
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.

Active magnetic bearings (AMB) vibration suppression: a breakthrough using adaptive filter with iterative search algorithm

Researchers developed an Adaptive Filter with Compensation (AFC) to suppress rotor vibrations in AMB systems, reducing amplitudes by up to 77% through simulations and experimental validations. This method paves the way for more reliable and efficient AMB systems, transforming high-precision industries.

SourceCES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems·JournalCES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 20, 2024

This new way to recycle steel could reduce the industry’s carbon footprint

Researchers have designed a new way to recycle steel using an electrochemical pathway that removes contaminants like copper, reducing carbon emissions. The process generates liquid iron and sulfur as by-products and has potential for higher-grade product creation.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalResources Conservation and Recycling·DateJun 18, 2024

Texas A&M receives grant from Inflation Reduction Act

Texas A&M University has received a $1.5 million grant from the Environmental Protection Agency to develop a technology capable of separating hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in two ways: designing and testing a separation technology, and incorporating machine learning-based data-driven decision frameworks for reverse logistics.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateJun 11, 2024

New technique could help build quantum computers of the future

Researchers have developed a method to create and control optical qubits in silicon with high precision, enabling the fabrication of reliable quantum computers. This breakthrough could advance quantum computing and networking capabilities, paving the way for breakthroughs in human health, drug discovery, and artificial intelligence.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 11, 2024
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.

Making remanufacturing profitable

Remanufacturing is a process that transforms end-of-life products into new ones, offering economic benefits and environmental advantages. Companies need to invest time and energy to adopt this approach, but it can lead to increased profitability and sustainability.

SourceLinköping University·DateJun 10, 2024

Tiny crop-health sensors could help cut the cost of groceries

Researchers developed a compact sensor system with infrared imaging capabilities that can be fitted to drones for remote crop monitoring. The system can rapidly switch between edge detection and detailed infrared imaging, allowing farmers to pinpoint specific crop needs and boost harvests.

SourceRMIT University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 5, 2024
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.

Study: Under extreme impacts, metals get stronger when heated

Researchers at MIT found that copper can be as strong as steel when struck by a super-high velocity object, contradicting decades of studies. The new discovery could lead to new material designs for extreme environments, such as hypersonic aircraft and equipment for high-speed manufacturing processes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateMay 22, 2024

Expanding on the fundamental principles of liquid movement

Kyushu University researchers generalize fluid dynamics of volatile liquids using mathematical modeling and experimentation. Their findings can lead to more efficient product development in various liquid-based industries, including high-end electronics manufacturing and lab-on-a-chip disease diagnosis.

SourceKyushu University·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2024
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.

Molecular secret behind alcohol content of beverages revealed

Researchers have discovered distinct ethanol-water molecular clusters that determine critical alcohol content ranges in various beverages. By controlling these clusters' transitions, manufacturers can maintain ideal taste while reducing alcohol concentration.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 11, 2024

Net zero plans show limited climate ambition on ‘residual’ emissions

Research by the University of East Anglia reveals that net zero plans show limited ambition in dealing with residual emissions, which are expected to come from hard-to-abate sectors such as aviation and agriculture. The study analyzed national climate strategies for 71 countries, finding that only 26 quantify residual emissions, with m...

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalOne Earth·DateMay 9, 2024

Getting dirty to clean up the chemical industry’s environmental impact

Researchers discovered that adding water-resistant materials to an electrode can dramatically speed up chemical reactions in water, known as 'fouling'. This process can increase reaction rates up to six times faster than traditional methods. By leveraging this method, the chemical industry may be able to reduce its reliance on fossil f...

SourceCurtin University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 8, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

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 sensing checks for 3D printed products could overhaul manufacturing sector

Researchers at the University of Bristol have derived a formula to assess the quality of components in fields like aerospace using laser-based ultrasonic array sensors. This breakthrough could lead to radically new designs, quicker production processes, and significant commercial advantage for UK manufacturing.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalWaves in Random and Complex Media·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 22, 2024

Properties of new materials for microchips can now be measured well

The researchers used an optomechanical methodology to extract the thermal expansion coefficient, specific heat, and thermal conductivity of five different materials, including graphene and ultra-thin silicon membrane. This method provides a route toward improving our understanding of heat transport in the 2D limit.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalAPL Materials·TypeImaging analysis·DateApr 18, 2024

Global North energy outsourcing demands more attention

A new study reveals that Global North countries' outsourcing of energy-intensive industrial processes to the Global South leads to greater carbon emissions and environmental damage. The researchers urge both regions to work together to address this issue, promoting energy equity and sustainability.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalEnergy Economics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateApr 15, 2024

A microbial plastic factory for high-quality green plastic

Kobe University researchers develop a bacterial plastic factory that produces highly transparent, biodegradable plastics with improved properties. By blending polylactic acid with ultra-high molecular weight LAHB, they create a material that exhibits all the desired properties.

SourceKobe University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2024
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.

Paving new paths for sustainable construction

The Indian Institute of Science has developed new concrete materials using excavated soil, reducing the need for natural sand and minimizing carbon dioxide emissions. The innovative materials show improved compressive strength and reduced waste, offering a scalable solution to the construction sector's environmental challenges.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 27, 2024

WVU study shows treating work like a game drives results

A WVU study found that treating work like a game improves workers' productivity and engagement, but also increases stress levels. Gamification can boost completion times for repetitive tasks, but may push employees past their tolerance threshold, leading to frustration and physical demands.

SourceWest Virginia University·JournalRobotics and Computer-Integrated Manufacturing·DateMar 25, 2024

Greenhouse gas emissions in Global South countries linked with IMF lending policies

A recent study suggests that IMF lending policies, especially structural loans, lead to significant increases in greenhouse gas emissions in Global South countries. This effect is most pronounced with second or subsequent loans, which can result in immediate spikes in emissions.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalSocio-Economic Review·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 19, 2024
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.

Revolutionary method developed for mass-producing polymer solid electrolytes

A new technique for producing polymer solid electrolytes has been developed, eliminating the need for vacuum heat treatment and increasing production speed by 13-fold. This method ensures consistent thickness and surface quality of polymer solid electrolytes, ideal for battery production.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalEnergy Storage Materials·DateMar 15, 2024

Supply chain disruptions will further exacerbate economic losses from climate change

A new study finds that climate change will further exacerbate projected economic losses from global warming when its impact on global supply chains is factored in. By 2060, total GDP losses could amount to between $3.75 trillion and $24.7 trillion, with supply chain disruptions accounting for a significant proportion of these losses.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 13, 2024

AI-driven lab speeds catalysis research

Researchers developed an AI-driven lab called Fast-Cat that uses artificial intelligence to provide in-depth analyses of catalytic reactions. The tool conducts high-temperature gas-liquid reactions and analyzes results to determine how different variables affect the outcome of each experiment.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Chemical Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2024

Pore evolution secrets revealed: new study unlocks additive manufacturing potential

A new study has unlocked the secrets of pore evolution in directed energy deposition (DED) additive manufacturing, revealing five distinct processes that contribute to their behavior. The findings provide a detailed understanding of how pores form, move, and interact within the melt pool during DED, enabling targeted strategies to mini...

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 26, 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.

3D printed titanium structure shows supernatural strength

Researchers at RMIT University created a 50% stronger titanium lattice cube than the strongest alloy of similar density used in aerospace applications. The material's unique lattice structure design distributes stress evenly, making it suitable for medical devices, aircraft, and rocket parts.

SourceRMIT University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 25, 2024

New water batteries stay cool under pressure

A global team of researchers has invented recyclable water batteries that don't catch fire or explode, addressing safety concerns in lithium-ion technology. The batteries use abundant materials like magnesium and zinc, reducing manufacturing costs and environmental risks.

SourceRMIT University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 21, 2024

Throwing lithography a curve

Researchers have developed a method called mask wafer co-optimization (MWCO) that allows for the creation of curved shapes using variable-shaped beam mask writers. This technique reduces wafer variation by 3x and improves the process window by 2x compared to existing methods.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Micro/Nanopatterning Materials and Metrology·DateFeb 20, 2024

Engineering a coating for disease-free produce

Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a coating that bolsters the safety of fresh produce and provides enhanced protection against bacteria and fungi. The coating combines wax with nano-encapsulated cinnamon-bark essential oil in protein carriers to enhance antibacterial properties.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalCurrent Research in Food Science·DateFeb 20, 2024

MIT researchers map the energy transition’s effects on jobs

The study identifies areas with high carbon footprints, including those reliant on fossil fuels and manufacturing, highlighting the need for targeted economic assistance programs. The research provides a precise way to assess industrial composition, helping policymakers incorporate considerations into future policies.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2024
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.

The ShAPE of buildings to come: Scrap aluminum transforms recycling life cycle

The ShAPE technology developed at PNNL can transform 100% post-consumer scrap aluminum into usable extrusions meeting ASTM standards for strength and flexibility. This process conserves nearly all the energy required to manufacture new aluminum products, reducing dependency on imported primary aluminum and greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·DateFeb 1, 2024

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.

SourceCommunications and Institutional Research Office, City University of Hong Kong·JournalMatter·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateFeb 1, 2024

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
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.

Pioneering diamond manufacturing: Enhancing efficiency and precision with energy beam-based direct and assisted polishing techniques

Energy beam-based direct and assisted polishing technologies for diamonds improve surface quality and material removal rates, overcoming limitations of traditional methods. Researchers analyzed four latest polishing techniques, including laser polishing, ion beam polishing, plasma-assisted polishing, and laser-assisted polishing.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateDec 21, 2023

An electrifying improvement in copper conductivity

Researchers at DOE's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory have discovered that adding a small amount of solid carbon to copper boosts its ability to conduct electricity. The findings could lead to more efficient electricity distribution, as well as more efficient motors for electric vehicles and industrial equipment.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalMaterials & Design·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023
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.

Shock wave photographed passing through a single cell

Scientists use new photography technique to observe interaction between biological cell and shock wave, revealing high-speed phenomena. The technology has potential applications in science, medicine, and industry.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2023

Resource-efficient and climate-friendly with sodium-ion batteries

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology found that sodium-ion batteries have an equivalent climate impact as lithium-ion batteries without the risk of raw material depletion. They identified potential measures to further reduce climate impact, such as developing environmentally better electrolytes.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalJournal of Industrial Ecology·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 13, 2023