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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.

SourceColumbia University's Mailman School of Public Health·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 17, 2024

Korea Maritime & Ocean University researchers develop a new method for path-following performance of autonomous ships

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.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalOcean Engineering·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 3, 2024

Breakthrough in hydrate-based desalination technique unveiled

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.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalWater Research·DateDec 28, 2023

Revolutionary breakthrough in nitrile activation unveils promising pathway for anticancer precursor synthesis

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.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalJACS Au·DateDec 28, 2023
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.

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

Research shows disadvantaged people wait significantly longer for power restoration after major storms

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.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 14, 2023

Rail industry urged to consider safety risks of space weather

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.

SourceLancaster University·JournalSpace Weather·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 11, 2023

New method verifies carbon capture in concrete

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.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Advanced Concrete Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 27, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Researchers obtain promising results against capacity loss in vanadium batteries

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.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateNov 22, 2023

Autonomous lab discovers best-in-class quantum dot in hours; it would have taken humans years

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.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 13, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Researchers unveil fire-inhibiting nonflammable gel polymer electrolyte for lithium-ion batteries

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.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateOct 18, 2023

A clean-energy future for legacy coal?

Lehigh University researchers have developed a technique using machine learning and advanced spectroscopy to characterize waste feedstocks for gasification-produced hydrogen. This process has the potential to eliminate hazards associated with stored coal waste and reclaim valuable resources, while also emitting fewer pollutants than tr...

SourceLehigh University·DateOct 16, 2023
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.

Unlocking the potential of silicon anode materials for commercialized batteries

Researchers propose analysis protocol to evaluate feasibility of silicon-containing batteries with reduced particle size and uniform dispersion. The study finds promising results from innovative synthesis technology and initial efficiencies exceeding 90% with improved lifespan characteristics.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Energy·DateSep 28, 2023

Shoring up the West's grid against extreme weather

A new interdisciplinary center at the University of Utah aims to fortify the region's power infrastructure against climate-related threats, including floods, high winds, and drought. The $14 million center will gather and distribute climate and grid data to develop customized models for risk quantification and forecasting.

SourceUniversity of Utah·DateSep 28, 2023

Separating molecules requires lots of energy. This new, heat-resistant membrane could change that

A University at Buffalo-led research team has created a new, sturdier membrane that can withstand harsh environments associated with industrial separation processes. The membrane, made from an inorganic material called carbon-doped metal oxide, is a potential alternative to energy-intensive processes like distillation and crystallization.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalScience·DateSep 27, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Toward high-efficiency thin crystalline silicon solar cells

A new strategy optimizes optical and electrical characteristics of thin c-Si solar cells, improving conversion efficiency by 28% compared to industrial thick counterparts. The proposed design uses a layer transfer method and metal nanofilms for enhanced light absorption and surface passivation.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateSep 27, 2023

New study highlights feasibility and optimization of ammonia-based power generation for carbon neutrality

A recent study evaluates the feasibility of ammonia-based power generation through techno-economic and carbon footprint analyses. The research reveals an impressive energy efficiency rate of 46.7% within the designed power generation process, with costs and greenhouse gas emissions considered.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateSep 8, 2023

NTU Singapore scientists develop new method to recover high-purity silicon from expired solar panels for upcycling into lithium-ion batteries

Researchers have devised an efficient method of recovering high-purity silicon from expired solar panels, which can help meet the increasing global demand for electric vehicles. The new extraction method using phosphoric acid achieved a recovery rate of 98.9% and purity of 99.2%, comparable to existing methods.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalSolar Energy Materials and Solar Cells·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2023

KMOU scientists develop an energy-efficient wireless power and information transfer system

Researchers from Korea Maritime and Ocean University developed a new framework for solving the energy efficiency problem in IIoTs. The proposed SWIPT-NOMA-DAS system is five times more energy efficient than existing systems, with significant improvements in performance and battery life extension.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 5, 2023
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.

Move over lithium-ion: Zinc-air batteries a cheaper and safer alternative

A new study by Edith Cowan University has discovered zinc-air batteries as a superior alternative to lithium-ion, offering low costs, environmental benefits, and high theoretical energy density. The breakthrough redesigns the batteries using natural resources like zinc from Australia and air, enhancing their viability for sustainable e...

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalEcoMat·TypeObservational study·DateAug 21, 2023
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.

An ingredient in toothpaste may make electric cars go farther

Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory discovered a new fluoride electrolyte that can protect lithium metal batteries against performance decline. The electrolyte maintains a robust protective layer on the anode surface for hundreds of cycles, enabling the battery to last longer.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 28, 2023

Accelerating aerial image simulations for optimal lithography

A research team from Taiwan has found a way to massively speed up aerial image simulations using wavelength scaling and fast Fourier transformation. The new algorithm improves computation speed by 4000-5000 times while maintaining only a slight intensity deviation.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Micro/Nanopatterning Materials and Metrology·DateJun 21, 2023
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.

Optimizing the properties and microstructure of bulk superconductors

Japanese researchers develop improved ternary superconductor bulks from liquid sources, demonstrating enhanced performance and microstructural analysis shows significant reductions in secondary phase particle size. The findings have huge potential for applications in magnetic levitation, electric motors, and energy systems.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Alloys and Compounds·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023
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.

Long-duration energy storage: the time is now

Long-duration energy storage (LDES) is crucial for US states with decarbonization goals to address variable energy generation and customer demands. LDES systems can store renewable energy until needed, providing a reliable solution for a decarbonized grid.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Energy Storage·DateMay 25, 2023

Texas A&M team studying effects of crypto mining on Texas power grid

A Texas A&M team is studying the impact of cryptocurrency mining on the state's power grid, revealing a potential for demand flexibility during times of peak energy usage. The research suggests that when the grid is stressed due to heatwaves or other factors, cryptocurrency miners can shut down, providing a buffer against strain.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalAdvances in Applied Energy·DateMay 22, 2023
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.

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers enhance thermoelectricity with guided impurity position control

Researchers at GIST have developed an IDT-based polymer with low thermal conductivity and high electronic conductivity, improving thermoelectric performance. The new material demonstrates a 6-fold increase in efficiency compared to conventional materials.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalChemistry of Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 3, 2023
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.

Assessing the impact of going off-grid on transmission charge and energy market outcomes

A team of researchers found that prosumers, who produce their own electricity, can lower transmission charges when generating less energy. However, when producing a large amount of renewable energy, transmission charges increase. The study suggests levying a per-MWh tax on prosumer consumption to reduce the likelihood of death spirals.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalApplied Energy·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMay 1, 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.

Nagoya University researchers in Japan develop a new ultra-high-density sulfonic acid polymer electrolyte membrane for fuel cells

Nagoya University researchers have developed a poly(styrenesulfonic acid)-based PEM with an ultrahigh density of sulfonic acid groups, exceeding five times that of typical commercially available membranes. The new membrane exhibits a proton conductivity of 0.93 S/cm at 80°C under 90%RH, six times higher than Nafion or Selemion under th...

SourceNagoya University·JournalACS Applied Polymer Materials·DateApr 19, 2023

Levies on Renewable Energy Profits could serve as a barrier to achieving Net Zero Targets in the UK

The UK government's introduction of a 45% levy on renewable energy profits may undermine investor confidence and deter low-carbon generators from developing in the country. This could potentially hinder the UK's ability to meet its 2050 emission targets, according to Dr Catherine Caine from the University of Exeter Law School.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEnvironmental Law Review·DateApr 5, 2023

Texas Port partners with UT scientists to store its greenhouse gas emissions

The University of Texas at Austin is helping the Port of Corpus Christi determine if it can permanently store greenhouse gas emissions from industrial operations beneath the seafloor of the Gulf of Mexico. The project aims to store carbon dioxide emissions in geological formations deep beneath the seafloor, reducing atmospheric emissions.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·DateMar 29, 2023

Scientists integrate two-dimensional materials into silicon microchips for advanced data storage and computation

Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST) successfully integrated two-dimensional materials on silicon microchips, achieving high integration density, electronic performance, and yield. The resulting hybrid devices exhibit special electronic properties that enable low-power consumption artificial neural ne...

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature·DateMar 27, 2023
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.

More predictable renewable energy could lower costs

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have found that more predictable solar or wind energy generation can save millions of dollars in operating costs and prevent clean energy spillage. By analyzing six existing solar farms, they discovered that optimal locations changed when predictability was considered, leading to significant in...

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalPatterns·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 24, 2023

Turning vegetable oil industry waste into power: innovative electrode modification improves bio-electrochemical treatment of wastewater

Researchers have developed a novel and cost-effective anode catalyst that can improve and stabilize power generation performance of MFCs treating vegetable oil industry wastewater. The study investigates modification of electrodes to increase bacterial adhesion and efficient electron transfer.

SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalJournal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology·DateMar 13, 2023
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.

Argonne drops data on the question of efficient drone use for e-commerce deliveries

A new Argonne study compares drone energy usage to diesel trucks and electric vehicles, finding that drones consume as much energy as either on average windy days. The models are based on regional energy consumption and facility costs of direct delivery drones under various wind speed scenarios.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalTransportation Research Record Journal of the Transportation Research Board·DateMar 1, 2023

Helping transit agencies visualize the transition to electric bus fleets

A new modeling and visualization tool assists transit agencies in making the transition to electric buses, considering both cost and environmental equity. The bi-objective optimization framework model enables agencies to explore the interdependency of an electric bus transit system and a city's energy infrastructure.

SourcePortland State University·DateFeb 9, 2023
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.

Korea Maritime and Ocean University researchers lay out strategies for up-scaling of bioelectrochemical systems

Researchers have identified the need for standardization of performance indices and a single frame for normalization methods to address concerns with bioelectrochemical systems. The study proposes strategies for up-scaling BES technologies, enabling resource recovery through on-site treatment of wastewater at an efficiency comparable t...

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalBioresource Technology·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 19, 2023

ASAP: New NSF center tackling microelectronic chips' energy efficiency

The Center for Aggressive Scaling by Advanced Processes for Electronics and Photonics (ASAP) aims to develop new fundamental technology solutions to reduce energy consumption in microprocessors. The center will focus on materials discovery, heterogeneous 3D integration, and highly energy-efficient circuits and architectures.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·DateJan 9, 2023

Penalties, corruption and legislation are failing to deter harmful gas flaring in Nigeria, study shows

A new study by Dr. Urenmisan Afinotan from the University of Exeter Law School reveals that weak penalties and loopholes in Nigeria's legislation are failing to deter gas flaring in the Niger Delta, despite efforts since the 1960s. The study highlights the need for stronger regulations to mitigate climate change.

SourceUniversity of Exeter·JournalEnvironmental Law Review·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 23, 2022