Headline: Researchers develop new method for achieving controllable tuning and assessing instability in 2D materials for engineering applications

■ Release Date: 2024.7.22

■ Published by: The University of Hong Kong

■ Keywords: graphene, molybdenum disulfide, thin film

■ Abstract:

Two-dimensional (2D) materials have atomic-level thickness and excellent mechanical and physical properties, with broad application prospects in fields such as semiconductors, flexible devices, and composite materials.

Headline: Aluminum scandium nitride films: Enabling next-gen ferroelectric memory devices

■ Release Date: 2024.7.22

■ Published by: Tokyo Institute of Technology

■ Keywords: aluminum, scandium, ferroelectric

■ Abstract:

Aluminum scandium nitride thin films could pave the way for the next generation of ferroelectric memory devices, according to a new study. Compared to existing ferroelectric materials, these films maintain their ferroelectric properties and crystal structure even after heat treatment at temperatures up to 600 C in both hydrogen and argon atmospheres. This high stability makes them ideal for high-temperature manufacturing processes under the H2-included atmosphere used in fabricating advanced memory devices.

Headline: Researchers develop innovative battery recycling method

■ Release Date: 2024.7.24

■ Published by: Rice University

■ Keywords: battery, lithium, recycling

■ Abstract:

A research team is tackling the environmental issue of efficiently recycling lithium ion batteries amid their increasing use.

Headline: Researchers discover faster, more energy-efficient way to manufacture an industrially important chemical

■ Release Date: 2024.7.24

■ Published by: DOE/Argonne National Laboratory

■ Keywords: zirconium, silicon, propane

■ Abstract:

The reactivity of zirconium on silicon nitride enhances the conversion of propane into propylene, a key commodity chemical needed to make polypropylene. This finding hints at the reactivity researchers might achieve with other nontraditional catalysts.

Headline: Indoor solar cells that maximize the use of light energy

■ Release Date: 2024.7.25

■ Published by: Kaunas University of Technology

■ Keywords: solar cells, photovoltaic, perovskite

■ Abstract:

Chemists have synthesized materials that can improve solar elements for indoor use. Such photovoltaic cells, which can also be integrated into various electronic devices, generate electricity even in low-light conditions.

Headline: A recipe for zero-emissions fuel: Soda cans, seawater, and caffeine

■ Release Date: 2024.7.25

■ Published by: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

■ Keywords: hydrogen, aluminum, alloy

■ Abstract:

Engineers discovered that when the aluminum in soda cans is purified and mixed with seawater, the solution produces hydrogen -- which can power an engine or fuel cell without generating carbon emissions. The reaction can be sped up by adding caffeine.

Headline: Better way to produce green hydrogen

■ Release Date: 2024.7.25

■ Published by: Oregon State University

■ Keywords: hydrogen, catalyst, energy

■ Abstract:

Researchers have developed a material that shows a remarkable ability to convert sunlight and water into clean energy.

Headline: Kink state' control may provide pathway to quantum electronics

■ Release Date: 2024.7.25

■ Published by: Penn State

■ Keywords: graphene, boron nitride, graphite

■ Abstract:

The key to developing quantum electronics may have a few kinks. According to researchers, that's not a bad thing when it comes to the precise control needed to fabricate and operate such devices, including advanced sensors and lasers. The researchers fabricated a switch to turn on and off the presence of kink states, which are electrical conduction pathways at the edge of semiconducting materials.