Headline: Catching up with quicksilver: MXene material can counter mercury contamination

■ Release Date: 2022.8.15

■ Published by: Drexel University

■ Keywords: mercury, titanium carbide

■ Abstract:

A team of researchers might have found just the right material to efficiently remove mercury -- even at low levels -- from contaminated bodies of water. Soroush's team of researchers from Drexel and Temple University has explored synthesizing and using a surface-modified titanium carbide MXene for mercury removal.

Headline: Unexpected quantum effects in natural double-layer graphene

■ Release Date: 2022.8.15

■ Published by: University of Göttingen

■ Keywords: graphene, quantum effects

■ Abstract:

An international research team has detected novel quantum effects in high-precision studies of natural double-layer graphene. This research provides new insights into the interaction of the charge carriers and the different phases, and contributes to the understanding of the processes involved.

Headline: Colorful solar panels could make the technology more attractive

■ Release Date: 2022.8.15

■ Published by: American Chemical Society

■ Keywords: solar, panels

■ Abstract:

Solar panels aren't just for rooftops anymore -- some buildings even have these power-generating structures all over their facades. But as more buildings and public spaces incorporate photovoltaic technologies, their monotonous black color could leave onlookers underwhelmed. Now, researchers have created solar panels that take on colorful hues while producing energy nearly as efficiently as traditional ones.

Headline: A technique to guide the development of faster and longer lasting next-generation batteries

■ Release Date: 2022.8.16

■ Published by: University of Cambridge

■ Keywords: lithium-ion, batteries 

■ Abstract:

Clean and efficient energy storage technologies are essential to establishing a renewable energy infrastructure. Lithium-ion batteries are already dominant in personal electronic devices, and are promising candidates for reliable grid-level storage and electric vehicles. However, further development is needed to improve their charging rates and usable lifetimes. To aid the development of such faster-charging and longer-lasting batteries, scientists need to be able to understand the processes occurring inside an operating battery, to identify the limitations to battery performance.

Headline: Investigation into plastic pollution moves inland

■ Release Date: 2022.8.17

■ Published by: Staffordshire University

■ Keywords: plastic, pollution

■ Abstract:

New research highlights the increasing threat of microplastics to global farming and food production. Scientists are researching the scale of plastic pollution in agricultural soils and its impact around the world. In recent years, the use of plastics in agriculture has increased significantly. However, microplastics in soil are estimated to take up to 300 years to completely degrade. It is believed that their presence alters soil characteristics such as its structure, water holding capacity, and microbial communities, and that microplastics are, in part, responsible for crop-reducing effects.

Headline: Unconventional water sources may be the key to powering America's lithium energy demands

■ Release Date: 2022.8.17

■ Published by: University of Chicago

■ Keywords: lithium ions, electrodes

■ Abstract:

Researchers have shown that 'seeding' electrodes with lithium ions can help increase the host's lithium selectivity and repel unwanted elements.

Headline: Building blocks of the future for photovoltaics

■ Release Date: 2022.8.18

■ Published by: University of Göttingen

■ Keywords: photovoltaics, electrical energy

■ Abstract:

An international research team has observed the build-up of a physical phenomenon that plays a role in the conversion of sunlight into electrical energy in 2D materials. The scientists succeeded in making quasiparticles -- known as dark Moiré interlayer excitons -- visible and explaining their formation using quantum mechanics. The researchers show how a newly developed experimental technique, femtosecond photoemission momentum microscopy, provides profound insights at a microscopic level, which will be relevant to the development of future technology.

Headline: Report highlights technology advancement and value of wind energy

■ Release Date: 2022.8.18

■ Published by: DOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory

■ Keywords: wind energy, U.S.

■ Abstract:

Wind energy continues to see strong growth, solid performance, and attractive prices in the U.S., according to a recent report.