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DGIST achieves the highest efficiency of flexible CZTSSe thin-film solar cell

The DGIST research team has developed a flexible CZTSSe thin-film solar cell with an unprecedented efficiency of 11.4%, breaking the previous record. This achievement enables mass production using eco-friendly materials, making it easier to commercialize and apply in various fields like wearables, buildings, and automobiles.

Why transporters really matter for cell factories

Researchers found that certain transporter proteins, such as MAE1 from Schizosaccharomyces pombe, can improve the secretion of dicarboxylic acids in baker's yeast with minimal energy expenditure. Building a comprehensive library of transporters will enable more efficient strain development and precise drug development.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 4, 2019

Exploiting green tides thanks to a marine bacterium

Scientists have identified a marine bacterium that can break down the polysaccharide ulvan from sea lettuce into fermentable monosaccharides. This discovery opens up new possibilities for biotechnological exploitation of ulvan, particularly in the agrifood and cosmetics industries.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateJul 8, 2019

Shrinking the carbon footprint of a chemical in everyday objects

MIT researchers develop an alternative approach to synthesizing epoxides, a type of chemical used in plastics, pharmaceuticals, and textiles, that uses electricity instead of fossil fuels, eliminating carbon dioxide emissions. The process can be done at room temperature and atmospheric pressure, reducing industrial energy consumption.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 9, 2019

Natural climate solutions are not enough

A new policy perspective published in Science warns that a ten-year delay in emissions reductions could negate natural climate solutions' benefits. Natural climate solutions like forest enhancement and carbon sequestration are not enough to meet the Paris Agreement's goals without rapid mitigation efforts.

SourceWorld Wildlife Fund·JournalScience·DateFeb 28, 2019

Harnessing light for a solar-powered chemical industry

Researchers at RMIT University developed a nano-enhanced material that captures 99% of light and converts it into chemical energy, offering a sustainable alternative for the chemical manufacturing industry. The innovation has potential applications in desalination, night vision technology, and producing valuable chemicals.

SourceRMIT University·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateJan 30, 2019

Development of world's first vertical Ga2O3 transistor through ion implantation doping

The development of a vertical Ga2O3 metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistor enables higher current drives without enlarging chip size, simplified thermal management, and improved field termination. The device shows decent electrical properties, paving the way for new generations of low-cost power electronic devices.

Fighting smog supports solar power

A study by ETH Zurich researchers found that clean air would increase solar radiation nationwide, allowing for a one-tenth increase in electricity production. This could lead to additional electricity generation of 85-158 terawatt hours per year, generating significant revenue for the Chinese electricity industry.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalPLOS ONE·DateDec 6, 2018

Clean power is not enough

International team of researchers warns that even with stringent climate policies, residual fossil fuel emissions could still cause CO2 emissions to endanger the climate targets agreed on by the international community. The study highlights the need for accelerated energy efficiency improvements and widespread electrification of energy...

SourcePotsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research (PIK)·JournalNature Climate Change·DateJun 25, 2018

New sensor for measuring electric field strength

A new silicon-based sensor developed by TU Wien measures electric field strength without distortion, with potential applications in weather forecasting, industrial process control, and high-voltage power line safety. The sensor achieves impressive levels of precision, reliably measuring weak fields of less than 200 volts per meter.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Electronics·DateJan 24, 2018

Most dog treats exceed recommended daily energy allowance

Researchers found that most dog treats contain undefined ingredients, including sugars, and often exceed the recommended daily energy allowance. Treat labels should be more explicit and provide detailed information on ingredients and energy content to prevent obesity and related health issues.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalVeterinary Record·DateDec 20, 2017

A new way to mix oil and water

Researchers at MIT have developed a new way to mix oil and water, creating stable nanoscale emulsions without the need for shaking or sonicating. By cooling an oil bath with surfactant and allowing water vapor to condense onto its surface, they produce uniform droplets that remain stable over several months.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 8, 2017

Researchers challenge status quo of battery commercialization

Researchers challenge traditional battery commercialization approach by incorporating lessons from the pharmaceutical industry. They propose a tailored proposal for entrepreneurs, investors, manufacturers, and policymakers to fuel battery innovation, including niche applications, strategic partnerships, targeted capital raises, and cus...

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalMRS Energy & Sustainability·DateSep 6, 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

Jackdaws flap their wings to save energy

Researchers at Lund University discovered that jackdaws minimize energy consumption when flapping their wings by creating multiple small vortices. This unique phenomenon could lead to more efficient flight in birds and potentially influence aircraft design.

SourceLund University·JournalJournal of The Royal Society Interface·DateAug 11, 2017

Climate change and risk to fossil fuel industry: Sustainability train has left the station

The article highlights that climate change threatens the sustainability of the fossil fuel industry, with emissions accounting for two-thirds of greenhouse gas emissions. The industry faces increasing pressures due to carbon-based businesses and economies facing impediments to consumption, according to Jim Krane and Ritchie D. Priddy.

SourceCambridge University Press·JournalMRS Energy & Sustainability·DateApr 18, 2017