Headline: Researchers invent new triple-junction tandem solar cells with world-record efficiency

■ Release Date: 2024.3.4

■ Published by: National University of Singapore

■ Keywords: solar cell, perovskite, energy

■ Abstract:

Scientists have developed a novel triple-junction perovskite/Si tandem solar cell that can achieve a certified world-record power conversion efficiency of 27.1 per cent across a solar energy absorption area of 1 sq cm, representing the best-performing triple-junction perovskite/Si tandem solar cell thus far. To achieve this, the team engineered a new cyanate-integrated perovskite solar cell that is stable and energy efficient.

Headline: Cost of direct air carbon capture to remain higher than hoped

■ Release Date: 2024.3.4

■ Published by: ETH Zurich

■ Keywords: carbon capture, calcium oxide, carbon emissions

■ Abstract:

Researchers estimate the cost of removing 1 ton of CO2 from the air in the year 2050 to be between 230 and 540 US dollars to remove 1 ton. This is twice as high as previous estimates. The researchers compared the potential costs of three technologies that are already in use. From today's perspective, none of these technologies has clear advantages over the others in terms of potential costs. All three technologies should therefore be further developed, say the researchers.

Headline: Evolving hydrogen-storage technology: Guidelines developed for the design of anti-evaporation catalysts

■ Release Date: 2024.3.5

■ Published by: National Institute for Materials Science, Japan

■ Keywords: hydrogen, catalyst, cobalt

■ Abstract:

A research team has identified materials capable of catalyzing the conversion of ortho-hydrogen to para-hydrogen. These catalysts should be essential to the spread of mass-transportation/storage of liquid hydrogen.

Headline: Harmful 'forever chemicals' removed from water with new electrocatalysis method

■ Release Date: 2024.3.5

■ Published by: University of Rochester

■ Keywords: chemicals, boron, solar

■ Abstract:

Scientists have developed new electrochemical approaches to clean up pollution from 'forever chemicals' found in clothing, food packaging, firefighting foams, and a wide array of other products. A new study describes nanocatalysts developed to remediate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS.

Headline: Aluminum nanoparticles make tunable green catalysts

■ Release Date: 2024.3.5

■ Published by: Rice University

■ Keywords: aluminum, nanoparticles, catalyst

■ Abstract:

A nanotechnology pioneer has uncovered a transformative approach to harnessing the catalytic power of aluminum nanoparticles by annealing them in various gas atmospheres at high temperatures.

Headline: Smart optimization paves the way for improved silicon solar cell performance

■ Release Date: 2024.3.5

■ Published by: Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology

■ Keywords: silicon, solar cell, passivation film

■ Abstract:

Bayesian optimization (BO) can help determine the optimal deposition conditions for high-performance passivation films in solar cells. However, simple implementations tend to suggest excessively thick films or infeasible deposition conditions. Recently, researchers from Japan developed a novel constrained BO scheme that combines several prediction models to restrict suggested deposition conditions to realistic values. Their strategy could help minimize trial and error and improve material performance in various fields.

Headline: Using light to precisely control single-molecule devices

■ Release Date: 2024.3.5

■ Published by: Columbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science

■ Keywords: graphene, single-molecule, electrodes

■ Abstract:

Researchers flip the switch at the nanoscale by applying light to induce bonding for single-molecule device switching.

Headline: New type of nanoparticle makes vaccines more powerful

■ Release Date: 2024.3.6

■ Published by: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

■ Keywords: nanoparticle, vaccines, adjuvanty

■ Abstract:

A type of nanoparticle called a metal organic framework (MOF) could be used to deliver vaccines and act as an adjuvant. Researchers find these particles provoke a strong immune response by activating the innate immune system through cell proteins called toll-like receptors.