Headline: A step on the way to solid-state batteries

■ Release Date: 2023.10.23

■ Published by: Wiley

■ Keywords: lithium, battery, electrolyte

■ Abstract:

A lithium ceramic could act as a solid electrolyte in a more powerful and cost-efficient generation of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. The challenge is to find a production method that works without sintering at high temperatures. A research team has now introduced a sinter-free method for the efficient, low-temperature synthesis of these ceramics in a conductive crystalline form.

Headline: Cathode active materials for lithium-ion batteries could be produced at low temperatures

■ Release Date: 2023.10.23

■ Published by: Hokkaido University

■ Keywords: lithium-ion, battery, lithium cobalt oxide

■ Abstract:

Layered lithium cobalt oxide, a key component of lithium-ion batteries, has been synthesized at temperatures as low as 300°C and durations as short as 30 minutes.

Headline: Scientists develop new method to create stable, efficient next-gen solar cells

■ Release Date: 2023.10.24

■ Published by: Penn State

■ Keywords: solar, cell, perovskite

■ Abstract:

Next-generation solar materials are cheaper and more sustainable to produce than traditional silicon solar cells, but hurdles remain in making the devices durable enough to withstand real-world conditions. A new technique could simplify the development of efficient and stable perovskite solar cells, named for their unique crystalline structure that excels at absorbing visible light.

Headline: Using sound to test devices, control qubits

■ Release Date: 2023.10.25

■ Published by: Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences

■ Keywords: silicon carbide, acoustic resonators, quantum

■ Abstract:

Researchers have developed a system that uses atomic vacancies in silicon carbide to measure the stability and quality of acoustic resonators. What's more, these vacancies could also be used for acoustically-controlled quantum information processing, providing a new way to manipulate quantum states embedded in this commonly-used material.

Headline: Breakthrough synthesis method improves solar cell stability

■ Release Date: 2023.10.26

■ Published by: Rice University

■ Keywords: solar, cell, perovskite

■ Abstract:

A new process yields 2D halide perovskite crystal layers of ideal thickness and purity through dynamic control of the crystallization process -- a key step toward ensuring device stability for optoelectronics and photovoltaics.

Headline: A potentially cheaper and 'cooler' way for hydrogen transport

■ Release Date: 2023.10.26

■ Published by: Kyushu University

■ Keywords: hydrogen, energy, nickel

■ Abstract:

Researchers have developed a new hydrogen energy carrier material capable storing hydrogen energy efficiently and potentially more cheaply. Each molecule can store one electron from hydrogen at room temperature, store it for up the three months, and can be its own catalyst to extract said electron. Moreover, as the compound is made primarily of nickel, its cost is relatively low.

Headline: New battery technology could lead to safer, high-energy electric vehicles

■ Release Date: 2023.10.27

■ Published by: University of Maryland

■ Keywords: battery, electric vehicles, lithium

■ Abstract:

Researchers studying how lithium batteries fail have developed a new technology that could enable next-generation electric vehicles (EVs) and other devices that are less prone to battery fires while increasing energy storage.

Headline: 3D printed reactor core makes solar fuel production more efficient

■ Release Date: 2023.10.27

■ Published by: ETH Zurich

■ Keywords: solar, ceramic, fuel

■ Abstract:

Using a new 3D printing technique, researchers have developed special ceramic structures for a solar reactor. Initial experimental testing show that these structures can boost the production yield of solar fuels.