Headline: Faster, cleaner way to extract lithium from battery waste

■ Release Date: 2024.7.29

■ Published by: Rice University

■ Keywords: lithium, battery, recovery

■ Abstract:

Researchers uncover a rapid, efficient and environmentally friendly method for selective lithium recovery using microwave radiation and a readily biodegradable solvent.

Headline: Plant-inspired polymers for water purification

■ Release Date: 2024.7.29

■ Published by: Osaka University

■ Keywords: polymer, cadmium, heavy metal

■ Abstract:

Researchers have synthesized a bio-inspired polymer for water purification. The polymer was designed to mimic phytochelatin, a plant protein that selectively captures and neutralizes harmful heavy metal ions. The hyperconfinement of the polymer enabled a flow-through system and effectively removed cadmium ions from contaminated water, making it safe to drink. The system was selective for heavy metals and provides a new way to remove specific contaminants from water.

Headline: Green hydrogen: 'Artificial leaf' becomes better under pressure

■ Release Date: 2024.7.31

■ Published by: Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie

■ Keywords: hydrogen, photoelectrochemical cells, photoelectrodes

■ Abstract:

Hydrogen can be produced via the electrolytic splitting of water. One option here is the use of photoelectrodes that convert sunlight into voltage for electrolysis in so called photoelectrochemical cells (PEC cells). A research team has now shown that the efficiency of PEC cells can be significantly increased under pressure.

Headline: More electricity from the sun

■ Release Date: 2024.7.31

■ Published by: Wiley

■ Keywords: solar cell, silicon, perovskite

■ Abstract:

A coating of solar cells with special organic molecules could pave the way for a new generation of solar panels. This coating can increase the efficiency of monolithic tandem cells made of silicon and perovskite while lowering their cost -- because they are produced from industrial, microstructured, standard silicon wafers.

Headline: Engineering researchers crack the code to boost solar cell efficiency and durability

■ Release Date: 2024.8.1

■ Published by: Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

■ Keywords: photovoltaic, solar cell, clean energy

■ Abstract:

Photovoltaic (PV) technologies, which convert light into electricity, are increasingly applied worldwide to generate renewable energy. Researchers have now developed a molecular treatment that significantly enhances the efficiency and durability of perovskite solar cells. Their breakthrough will potentially accelerate the large-scale production of this clean energy.

Headline: Solving the doping problem: Enhancing performance in organic semiconductors

■ Release Date: 2024.8.2

■ Published by: University of Cambridge

■ Keywords: silicon, doping, semiconductors

■ Abstract:

Physicists have discovered two new ways to improve organic semiconductors. They found a way to remove more electrons from the material than previously possible and used unexpected properties in an environment known as the non-equilibrium state, boosting its performance for use in electronic devices.