Headline: Unveiling the mechanism of the metal-to-insulator transition in ruthenium phosphide suggests a new way of looking at solids
■ Release Date: 2022.11.29
■ Published by: Nagoya University
■ Keywords: ruthenium, insulator, conductor
■ Abstract:
A group has discovered a never-before-seen form of ruthenium phosphide with an unusual configuration of atoms and electrons in its cooled state. This may resolve the puzzle of how a metal can be a conductor at high temperatures, but an insulator at lower temperatures.
Headline: Cooling down solar cells, naturally
■ Release Date: 2022.11.29
■ Published by: American Institute of Physics
■ Keywords: photovoltaics, solar, cell
■ Abstract:
Too much sun and too much heat can reduce the efficiency of photovoltaics. A solar farm with optimally spaced panels facing the correct direction could cool itself through convection using the surrounding wind. Researchers explored how to exploit the geometry of solar farms to enhance natural cooling mechanisms.
Headline: Protons fix a long-standing issue in silicon carbide electronics
■ Release Date: 2022.11.29
■ Published by: Nagoya Institute of Technology
■ Keywords: silicon carbide, semiconductor, silicon
■ Abstract:
Silicon carbide (SiC) is a promising semiconductor material for power electronic devices, but it suffers from bipolar degradation, which severely limits its lifespan. To address this long-standing issue in a cost-effective manner, researchers have developed a proton implantation-based suppression method that can prevent the expansion of stacking faults, which lie at the root of bipolar degradation. This development could pave the way for reliable, economical, and power efficient SiC semiconductor devices.
Headline: Magnetic material mops up microplastics in water
■ Release Date: 2022.11.29
■ Published by: RMIT University
■ Keywords: magnetic material, microplastics, magnet
■ Abstract:
Researchers have found an innovative way to rapidly remove hazardous microplastics from water using magnets.
Headline: New carbon nanotube-based foam promises superior protection against concussions
■ Release Date: 2022.11.30
■ Published by: University of Wisconsin-Madison
■ Keywords: carbon, nanotube, foam
■ Abstract:
A lightweight, ultra-shock-absorbing foam made from carbon nanotubes is so good at absorbing and dissipating the energy of an impact, it could vastly improve helmets and prevent concussions and other traumatic brain injuries.
Headline: Nanodiamonds can be activated as photocatalysts with sunlight
■ Release Date: 2022.11.30
■ Published by: Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie
■ Keywords: nanodiamond, photocatalysts, carbon nanoparticles
■ Abstract:
Nanodiamond materials have potential as low-cost photocatalysts. But until now, such carbon nanoparticles required high-energy UV light to become active. The DIACAT consortium has therefore produced and analysed variations of nanodiamond materials. The work shows: If the surface of the nanoparticles is occupied by sufficient hydrogen atoms, even the weaker energy of blue sunlight is sufficient for excitation. Future photocatalysts based on nanodiamonds might be able to convert CO2 or N2 into hydrocarbons or ammonia with sunlight.
Headline: Stabilizing lithium-ion batteries with microbially synthesized electrolyte additive
■ Release Date: 2022.11.30
■ Published by: Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology
■ Keywords: lithium-ion, battery, cathode
■ Abstract:
Lithium-ion batteries with high-energy-density cathodes are necessary to meet the energy demands of next-generation electronics and electric vehicles. At high voltages, however, the battery electrolyte undergoes excessive decomposition, compromising cathode performance. To tackle this, researchers have now synthesized a bio-based, non-toxic additive material that stabilizes the cathode by forming a passivation layer on its surface and suppressing its decomposition. Eco-friendly and low-cost, the novel compound could promote a wider utilization of bio-based resources.
Headline: Researchers introduce an energy-efficient method to enhance thermal conductivity of polymer composites
■ Release Date: 2022.11.30
■ Published by: Pusan National University
■ Keywords: thermal conductivity, polymer, magnetic
■ Abstract:
Thermally conductive polymer composites consist of fillers oriented in certain directions that form pathways for heat flow. However, conventional methods to control the orientation of these fillers are energy-intensive and require surface modifications that can deteriorate the quality and properties of these materials. Now, researchers have developed an energy-efficient method to control the orientation of the fillers without the need for surface modification, resulting in improvement in thermal conductivity.
Headline: Novel 3D printing method to fabricate complex metal-plastic composite structures
■ Release Date: 2022.11.30
■ Published by: Waseda University
■ Keywords: metal-plastic, precursors, 3D printing
■ Abstract:
In recent years, research interest in the 3D printing of metal patterns on plastic parts has grown exponentially, due to its high potential in the manufacturing of next-generation electronics. But fabricating such complex parts through conventional means is not easy. Now, researchers have developed a new 3D printing process for the fabrication of 3D metal-plastic composite structures with complex shapes.
Headline: Two novel hydrogen production catalysts based on mineral gel and 'crystalline-amorphous' dual-phase nano-aluminium alloy
■ Release Date: 2022.12.1
■ Published by: City University of Hong Kong
■ Keywords: hydrogen, catalyst, clean energy
■ Abstract:
Clean hydrogen energy is a good alternative to fossil fuels and is critical for achieving carbon neutrality. Researchers around the world are looking for ways to enhance the efficiency and lower the cost of hydrogen production, particularly by improving the catalysts involved. Recently, a research team developed a new, ultra-stable hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalyst, which is based on two-dimensional mineral gel nanosheets and does not contain any precious metals. The catalyst can be produced in large scale and can help achieve a lower hydrogen price in the future.