Headline: Understanding the atomic density fluctuations in silica glass

■ Release Date: 2024.6.3

■ Published by: Waseda University

■ Keywords: silica glass, atomic density, covalent glasses

■ Abstract:

The intermediate range order of covalent glasses has been extensively studied in terms of the first sharp diffraction peak (FSDP), but the direct observation of the atomic density fluctuations that give rise to FSDP is still lacking. Addressing this gap, researchers employed a new energy-filtered angstrom-beam electron diffraction technique to provide the direct experimental observation for the origin of FSDP in silica glass, providing important insights into the atomic structure of glasses.

Headline: Paving the way for hydrogen from algae enzymes

■ Release Date: 2024.6.3

■ Published by: Ruhr-University Bochum

■ Keywords: hydrogen, enzyme, energy

■ Abstract:

Under certain conditions, some algae are able to produce hydrogen -- a much sought-after green energy source. Its production takes place in the unique catalytic center of the unicellular algae and is only possible if certain cofactors of the relevant proteins are present. Researchers have identified how such a cofactor, the so-called hydrogen cluster, is assembled. Specifically, they describe the previously unexplained role of the enzyme HydF, which is involved in the final steps of assembly.

Headline: Tin toughens bioimplant titanium alloys through the cocktail effect

■ Release Date: 2024.6.4

■ Published by: Tohoku University

■ Keywords: titanium, tin, cocktail effect

■ Abstract:

Previous research has demonstrated that adding tin to beta-type titanium alloys improves their strength. But scientists have yet to understand the reasons for this. Now, a research team has pinpointed the exact mechanisms behind this phenomenon.

Headline: Some countries could meet their total electricity needs from floating solar panels

■ Release Date: 2024.6.4

■ Published by: Bangor University

■ Keywords: solar, electricity, photovoltaics

■ Abstract:

Floating solar photovoltaic panels could supply all the electricity needs of some countries, new research has shown. The researchers calculated the daily electrical output for floating photovoltaics (FPV) on nearly 68,000 lakes and reservoirs around the world, using available climate data for each location.

Headline: Towards next-gen functional materials: direct observation of electron transfer in solids

■ Release Date: 2024.6.4

■ Published by: Tokyo University of Science

■ Keywords: nanotube, zinc, ferrocene

■ Abstract:

Nanoscale electron transfer (ET) in solids is fundamental to the development of multifunctional materials. However, ET in solids is not yet clearly understood. Now, researchers achieved a direct observation of solid-state ET through X-ray crystal analysis by fabricating a novel double-walled non-covalent crystalline nanotube, which can absorb electron donor molecules and maintain its crystalline structure during ET. This innovative approach can lead to the design of novel functional materials soon.

Headline: Electrified charcoal 'sponge' can soak up CO2 directly from the air

■ Release Date: 2024.6.5

■ Published by: University of Cambridge

■ Keywords: carbon dioxide, charcoal, battery

■ Abstract:

Researchers have developed a low-cost, energy-efficient method for making materials that can capture carbon dioxide directly from the air. Researchers used a method similar to charging a battery to instead charge activated charcoal, which is often used in household water filters.

Headline: A cracking discovery -- eggshell waste can recover rare earth elements needed for green energy

■ Release Date: 2024.6.5

■ Published by: Trinity College Dublin

■ Keywords: eggshell waste, rare earth, green energy

■ Abstract:

A collaborative team of researchers has made a cracking discovery with the potential to make a significant impact in the sustainable recovery of rare earth elements (REEs), which are in increasing demand for use in green energy technologies. The team found that humble eggshell waste could recover REES from water, offering a new, environmentally friendly method for their extraction.

Headline: Liquid metal-based electronic logic device that mimics intelligent prey-capture mechanism of Venus flytrap

■ Release Date: 2024.6.6

■ Published by: Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

■ Keywords: liquid metal, venus flytrap, sodium hydroxide

■ Abstract:

A research team has developed a liquid metal-based electronic logic device that mimics the intelligent prey-capture mechanism of Venus flytraps. Exhibiting memory and counting properties, the device can intelligently respond to various stimulus sequences without the need for additional electronic components. The intelligent strategies and logic mechanisms in the device provide a fresh perspective on understanding 'intelligence' in nature and offer inspiration for the development of 'embodied intelligence'.

Headline: Crystal engineering modifies 2D metal halide perovskites into 1D nanowires

■ Release Date: 2024.6.6

■ Published by: Purdue University

■ Keywords: perovskite, nanowires, halide

■ Abstract:

Engineers have created a patent-pending method that creates layered perovskite nanowires with exceptionally well-defined and flexible cavities that exhibit a wide range of unusual optical properties beyond conventional perovskites.