Headline: New four-terminal tandem organic solar cell achieves 16.94% power conversion efficiency

■ Release Date: 2024.4.8

■ Published by: ICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences

■ Keywords: solar cell, silver, electrode

■ Abstract:

Researchers have fabricated a new four-terminal organic solar cell with a tandem configuration with a 16.94% power conversion efficiency (PCE). The new device is composed by a highly transparent front cell that incorporates a transparent ultrathin silver (Ag) electrode of only 7nm, which ensures its efficient operation.

Headline: This 3D printer can figure out how to print with an unknown material

■ Release Date: 2024.4.8

■ Published by: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

■ Keywords: polymer, resin, 3D printing

■ Abstract:

Researchers developed a 3D printer that can automatically determine the printing parameters of an unknown material. This could help engineers use emerging renewable or recycled materials that have fluctuating properties, which makes them difficult to print with.

Headline: Subterranean storage of hydrogen

■ Release Date: 2024.4.9

■ Published by: DOE/Sandia National Laboratories

■ Keywords: hydrogen, fuel, energy

■ Abstract:

Scientists are using computer simulations and laboratory experiments to see if depleted oil and natural gas reservoirs can be used for storing carbon-free hydrogen fuel. Hydrogen is an important clean fuel: It can be made by splitting water using solar or wind power, it can be used to generate electricity and power heavy industry, and it could be used to power fuel-cell-based vehicles. Additionally, hydrogen could be stored for months and used when energy needs outpace the supply delivered by renewable energy sources.

Headline: BESSY II: How pulsed charging enhances the service time of batteries

■ Release Date: 2024.4.9

■ Published by: Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie

■ Keywords: lithium-ion, battery, graphite

■ Abstract:

An improved charging protocol might help lithium-ion batteries to last much longer. Charging with a high-frequency pulsed current reduces aging effects, an international team demonstrated.

Headline: New 3D-printing method makes printing objects more affordable and eco-friendly

■ Release Date: 2024.4.10

■ Published by: University of Florida

■ Keywords: metal, 3D printing, phase-separation

■ Abstract:

A team of scientists has unveiled a method for 3D printing that allows manufacturers to create custom-made objects more economically and sustainably.

Headline: Nanoscale movies shed light on one barrier to a clean energy future

■ Release Date: 2024.4.11

■ Published by: Duke University

■ Keywords: ruthenium, hydrogen, energy

■ Abstract:

New research is shedding light on one barrier to a clean energy future: corrosion. Using nanoscale imaging techniques, researchers have captured high-resolution videos of tiny crystals of ruthenium dioxide -- a key ingredient used to produce clean-burning hydrogen -- as they are eaten away by their acidic environment. The research could pave the way to more durable catalysts and dramatically extend the lifetime of devices needed to turn hydrogen green.

Headline: Discovery brings all-solid-state sodium batteries closer to practical use

■ Release Date: 2024.4.11

■ Published by: Osaka Metropolitan University

■ Keywords: sodium, electrolyte, battery

■ Abstract:

Researchers have developed a mass synthesis process for sodium-containing sulfides. Mass synthesis of electrolytes with high conductivity and formability is key to the practical use of all-solid-state sodium batteries, thought to be safer than lithium-ion batteries and less expensive, as sodium is far more plentiful than lithium.

Headline: Surprising' hidden activity of semiconductor material spotted by researchers

■ Release Date: 2024.4.11

■ Published by: Penn State

■ Keywords: semiconductor, silicon, chip

■ Abstract:

New research suggests that materials commonly overlooked in computer chip design actually play an important role in information processing, a discovery which could lead to faster and more efficient electronics. Using advanced imaging techniques, an international team found that the material that a semiconductor chip device is built on, called the substrate, responds to changes in electricity much like the semiconductor on top of it.