The University of Pittsburgh's Swanson School of Engineering is leading a $3.3 million project to optimize HVDC converter design for increased power density and decreased cost. The project aims to help affordably integrate more renewable energy generation onto the grid via HVDC lines.
Engineers are adapting jet engines to run on hydrogen fuel, addressing vibrations concerns that could damage the combustion chamber. The researchers' experiments provide a basis for designing efficient hydrogen engines, paving the way for climate-neutral flight.
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.
Researchers found that windfall profits from oil and gas companies in 2022 would be enough to cover climate payments for nearly five years. Governments can redistribute these excess profits to fight the climate crisis, with a tax on windfall profits being a proposed solution.
The paper reviews thermal design of SiC power modules for motor drives in electric vehicles, focusing on optimizing irregular Pinfin structures and collaborative design with DC bus capacitors and motors. Irregular Pinfin arrangements can enhance heat transfer efficiency and reduce pressure drops compared to regular layouts.
Researchers will focus on harnessing waste heat and renewable energy sources to power clean cooling technologies. The project aims to address the growing environmental impact of cooling in various industries, with demand expected to multiply in the coming years.
The University of Kansas and Avium will develop new catalysts and technologies to improve the efficiency and reliability of green hydrogen production. The goal is to make clean hydrogen more affordable and support the transition to a clean-energy future.
Florida Atlantic University's Southeast National Marine Renewable Energy Center is establishing a blue energy hub to develop and test ocean current energy technologies. The project aims to improve the nation's competitiveness in marine energy technology and create jobs.
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.
Rice University researchers developed an electrochemical reactor to reduce energy consumption in direct air capture. The new design has achieved industrially relevant rates of carbon dioxide regeneration and offers flexibility, scalability, and lower capital costs.
A new training algorithm called ternarized gradient BNN (TGBNN) enables learning capabilities for binarized neural networks (BNNs) on IoT edge devices. The proposed MRAM-based CiM architecture achieves faster convergence and matching accuracy with regular BNNs.
A University of Virginia-led research team has developed new protective coatings that allow turbine engines to run at higher temperatures before components begin to fail. The coatings were created using rare earth oxides and have shown improved performance without complex multi-layer coatings.
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
Researchers at Politecnico di Milano discovered that the ratio of CO2 to methane present in the reaction determines carbon build-up on catalysts. This finding paves the way for more efficient technologies and longer-lasting catalysts.
Researchers used aerial drone technology and boat-based surveys to map complex tidal flows around the world's most powerful tidal turbine, O2. The study provides new insights into optimal turbine placement and site-specific assessments to address uncertainties surrounding interactions with marine habitats and environments.
Jayant Baliga's IGBT invention has reduced global carbon dioxide emissions by over 82 gigatons, equivalent to offsetting emissions from three years of human activity. The technology has improved energy efficiency in various products and enabled modern compact cardiac defibrillators.
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.
A new technology can extract lithium from brines at an estimated cost of under 40% that of today's dominant extraction method. The approach uses redox-couple electrodialysis and is expected to be relatively inexpensive due mostly to lower capital costs.
Researchers at Stanford University have designed an electrified thermochemical reactor capable of generating immense heat using electricity, replacing fossil fuels in industrial processes. The design is smaller, cheaper, and more efficient than existing technology.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a new method to study fuel cell degradation, allowing them to pinpoint exactly when and where the material degrades. This provides valuable information for developing new and improved fuel cells with a longer lifespan.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have developed a novel analog hardware using ECRAM devices that maximizes AI computational performance. Their technique, which uses a three-terminal structure with separate paths for reading and writing data, demonstrates excellent electrical and switching characteristics.
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.
Rocio Uria-Martinez, an energy and environmental economist at ORNL, was recognized for her work on the U.S. Hydropower Market Report detailing industry trends. Her research analyzed climate change impacts, pumped storage hydropower operations, and cost allocation in multipurpose projects.
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.
A recent study by Prof. Martin Bichler suggests that dividing Germany into several price zones may not reduce total power costs as expected. In contrast, nodal pricing shows promise in reducing costs by up to 9% due to efficient resource allocation and reduced re-dispatch measures.
Researchers aim to create integrated photonics on chips using an atom-thin silicon-germanium alloy, which could lead to computers and mobile phones that use less electricity and operate faster. The new material has the potential to emit light, reducing heat and energy consumption in data centers.
Research suggests that large-language models could play a role in managing the energy grid, particularly in emergency response, crew assignments, and wildfire preparedness. However, significant challenges remain, including data availability, safety guardrails, and reliability, which must be addressed to ensure safe deployment.
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.
A new artificial intelligence chip has been developed to improve energy efficiency, with the potential to reduce global energy consumption by half a percent by 2027. The chip uses a novel material platform that mimics biological neural networks, allowing for efficient data processing and storage.
Researchers are developing solutions to recycle solar panels and recover strategic metals like silver and copper, reducing waste and creating jobs.
Researchers have developed a computer model that sheds light on extracting renewable energy from superhot, super deep rock. The model shows the formation of microscopic cracks creating a dense 'cloud of permeability' throughout the affected rock, which can lead to higher power delivery and efficiency.
Researchers at Stanford University have made significant advancements in the development of a 'liquid battery' technology that uses LOHCs to store and release energy. The team discovered a novel, selective catalytic system that allows for the efficient storage of electrical energy in liquid fuels without generating gaseous hydrogen.
The article explores how AI can be applied to the electric power and energy industry, demonstrating its potential as a valuable technology for asset management. Machine learning techniques are showcased as a solution to improve efficient and sustainable energy networks.
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.
Researchers at WVU are exploring the potential of solar panels to generate energy on grazing lands, diversifying farmers' income streams and promoting more sustainable practices. The study aims to understand how dual-use solar systems impact soil health and animal performance.
Researchers at Shanghai Jiao Tong University have developed a high-resolution neutronics model that increases <sup> 238 </sup> Pu yield by close to 20% in high-flux reactors, reducing costs. The refined production process supports deep-space exploration and life-saving medical devices.
A global review of wind energy found that offshore turbines can prevent meltdowns like Fukushima and are more resilient to earthquakes. The study also shows wind power is cheaper than new nuclear power stations, with a lifetime cost of £44/MWh compared to £92.50/MWh for Hinkley Point C.
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.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology developed a hybrid porous structure using polyvinyl alcohol, enabling uniform lithium electrodeposition. The new design facilitated the transport of lithium ions, reducing 'dead Li' areas and internal short circuits, resulting in high stability after 200 charge-discharge cycles.
Researchers at Kyushu University analyzed the carbon footprint of building a wooden house in Japan, estimating 38 tons of CO2 emissions. The team identified electric power sector and steel manufacturing process as major contributors to total emissions.
A novel multifunctional catalyst has been developed to convert methane into valuable hydrocarbons, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption. The catalyst's spatial distribution of Cu and acid sites determines the final products, with uniform distribution leading to stable and efficient methanol production.
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.
A team of researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology developed a self-folding origami gripper that can be mounted onto drones, enabling them to grasp and hold objects. The gripper weighs only 5 grams but demonstrates grasping force equivalent to holding a 130-gram object.
A new study published in Nature Sustainability suggests that decommissioned offshore structures may only provide limited long-term ecological benefits. The research analyzed over 530 scientific studies on the effects of marine artificial structures and found no conclusive evidence to support their use as artificial reefs.
Researchers at a FAPESP-supported research center have developed an electrochemical nitrogen reduction process using iron oxide and molybdenum disulfide catalysts. This method eliminates the need for high temperatures and pressures, reducing power consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
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.
A research team developed an anode protection layer to prevent random electrodeposition of lithium, promoting stable 'bottom electrodeposition' and reducing unnecessary consumption. The breakthrough results in all-solid-state batteries with stable electrochemical performance over extended periods using ultrathin lithium metal anodes.
Researchers are developing a new framework to integrate renewable energy sources with the power grid using machine learning. The goal is to ensure efficient and stable operations while maximizing wind and solar power usage.
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.
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.
Researchers at WVU have developed a microwave technology that can significantly reduce industry's energy consumption and carbon emissions. The technology, which uses microwaves to carry out chemical reactions, has the potential to produce ethylene and ammonia in a single reactor, leading to increased efficiency and lower emissions.
Jian Shi, a UH researcher, has developed a carbon-driven framework called "ZERO-Accelerator" to expedite the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy. The framework integrates novel mechanisms and algorithms into current power grid operational practices to achieve a 24/7 zero-carbon power grid.
A new universal figure-of-merit for thermophotovoltaic (TPV) devices has been introduced to assess performance and balance power density and efficiency. This metric enables the classification of previously reported experimental results, providing a clear picture of TPV device overall performance.
West Virginia University has been awarded a $1 million National Science Foundation grant to drive energy technology and infrastructure development in the region. The initiative aims to identify pathways for workforce development and policy development that accelerates adoption of energy technologies.
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.
West Virginia University engineer Yuhe Tian is developing powerful artificial intelligence tools that can reimagine the sustainability of chemical manufacturing. She aims to harness quantum intelligence to innovate environmentally friendly chemical plant designs.
Researchers from Concordia University explore risks of cyberattacks faced by offshore wind farms with VSC-HVDC connections. These attacks could lead to false information, electrical disturbances, and potential transmission of amplified oscillations through the main power grid.
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.
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.
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.
Korea Maritime & Ocean University researchers have developed a new method for assessing the path-following performance of autonomous ships in adverse weather conditions. The computational fluid dynamics model can provide more accurate predictions of path-following performance and enhance safety in autonomous marine navigation.
Researchers have developed a novel method to produce a selective anticancer precursor substance. The synthesis involves the reaction of metal-active oxygen species with nitrile, utilizing cost-effective metals at lower temperatures. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities in developing innovative drugs against cancer.
A new method for desalinating seawater using hydrate-based desalination technology has been developed, offering a low-energy solution for producing freshwater. The research team calculated optimal temperatures for enhanced efficiency, with maximum water yields reaching up to 67% in certain brine concentrations.
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.
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Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.
Researchers analyzed data from 15 million customers in nine states and found that people in lower socioeconomic tiers experience significantly longer power outage durations. The study suggests that poorer communities are more distant from critical infrastructure or require more significant repairs to power lines.
Researchers found that space weather events can trigger 'wrong side' failures in rail signalling systems, which are more hazardous than 'right side' failures. This study highlights the need for the industry to consider the risks of space weather and explore mitigation strategies.
The 2023 Geothermal Rising Conference highlights growing interest in superhot rock geothermal, with papers validating its viability for high power output and small spatial footprint. Researchers are developing new technologies to access these resources, including millimeter wave energy to drill deeper holes.
Researchers develop a method to verify whether carbon in concrete comes from air or raw materials. By analyzing carbon isotopes, they can confirm direct air capture and certify offsetting CO2 emissions. This technology is crucial for the construction industry and supports a circular economy.
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.
A new study found that exposure to coal particulate air pollutants is associated with a mortality risk more than double that of exposure to PM2.5 from other sources. The researchers estimated that 460,000 deaths were attributable to coal PM2.5 in the US between 1999 and 2020.
A computational study conducted by Brazilian researchers found that current density and active species concentration are the main variables affecting capacity loss. The approach successfully mitigated cross-contamination, providing an optimal flow between electrolyte tanks under different operating conditions.
Researchers at NC State University developed an autonomous system called SmartDope to synthesize 'best-in-class' materials for specific applications in hours or days. It uses a self-driving lab to manipulate variables, characterize optical properties, and update its understanding of the synthesis chemistry through machine learning.
Advances in VR display technology have overcome the 'screen door effect' by introducing 2117 PPI LCDs with high partition mini LED backlighting. This enhances contrast, color accuracy, and viewing angles, making VR experiences more immersive.
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.
Researchers have created a fire-inhibiting, nonflammable gel polymer electrolyte for lithium-ion batteries, increasing ion conductivity by 33% and improving life characteristics by 110%. The electrolyte prevents radical chain reactions during combustion, effectively inhibiting battery fires.