Headline: Amorphous nanosheets created using hard-to-synthesize metal oxides and oxyhydroxides

■ Release Date: 2024.10.21

■ Published by: Nagoya University

■ Keywords: fuel cell, nanosheets, metal oxides

■ Abstract:

A team has pioneered a new technique for synthesizing amorphous nanosheets by employing solid-state surfactants. These ultra-thin amorphous nanosheets can now be produced from various kinds of metal oxides and hydroxides. This innovation significantly broadens their applicability across various technologies such as the potential advancement of next-generation fuel cells.

Headline: Researchers develop method to 'hear' defects in promising nanomaterial

■ Release Date: 2024.10.23

■ Published by: NYU Tandon School of Engineering

■ Keywords: boron, molybdenum, graphene

■ Abstract:

An international research team has pioneered a new technique to identify and characterize atomic-scale defects in hexagonal boron nitride (hBN), a two-dimensional (2D) material often dubbed 'white graphene' for its remarkable properties. This advance could accelerate the development of next-generation electronics and quantum technologies.

Headline: Fire-risk blocking self-powered hydrogen production system

■ Release Date: 2024.10.24

■ Published by: The Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)

■ Keywords: electrolyte, hydrogen, battery

■ Abstract:

By using a water-splitting system with an aqueous electrolyte, this system is expected to block fire risks and enable stable hydrogen production.

Headline: No significant PFAS emissions caused by waste incineration, study finds

■ Release Date: 2024.10.24

■ Published by: Karlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)

■ Keywords: fluoropolymers, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyvinylidene fluoride

■ Abstract:

Fluoropolymers have become an integral part of modern society, both in industrial and consumer applications. When these high-performance materials reach the end of their useful life, they can end up in both industrial and household waste. Researchers analyzed the contribution of waste incineration of fluoropolymers to the release of low-molecular, non-polymeric fluorinated compounds. Their experiments showed nearly complete destruction of fluoropolymers in combustion at the temperatures and residence times typical of European incinerators.

Headline: Key to low-cost, long-lasting renewable batteries for electric vehicles

■ Release Date: 2024.10.24

■ Published by: Southern Methodist University

■ Keywords: lithium, battery, electric vehicles

■ Abstract:

Lithium-sulfur batteries have never lived up to their potential as the next generation of renewable batteries for electric vehicles and other devices. But mechanical engineers have now found a way to make these Li-S batteries last longer -- with higher energy levels -- than existing renewable batteries.

Headline: A new hydrogel semiconductor represents a breakthrough for tissue-interfaced bioelectronics

■ Release Date: 2024.10.24

■ Published by: University of Chicago

■ Keywords: hydrogel, semiconductor, bioelectronics

■ Abstract:

The ideal material for interfacing electronics with living tissue is soft, stretchable, and just as water-loving as the tissue itself--in short, a hydrogel. Semiconductors, the key materials for bioelectronics such as pacemakers, biosensors, and drug delivery devices, on the other hand, are rigid, brittle, and water-hating, impossible to dissolve in the way hydrogels have traditionally been built. Scientists have now solved this challenge that has long stymied researchers, reimagining the process of creating hydrogels to build a powerful semiconductor in hydrogel form. The result is a bluish gel that flutters like a sea jelly in water but retains the immense semiconductive ability needed to transmit information between living tissue and machine.

Headline: Next-generation solar cells become more powerful with silver (Ag) doping technology

■ Release Date: 2024.10.25

■ Published by: DGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)

■ Keywords: solar cells, silver, precursor

■ Abstract:

Researchers have significantly improved the performance of kesterite (CZTSSe) thin-film solar cells. They developed a new method for doping silver (Ag) in solar cells to suppress defects that hinder cell performance and promote crystal growth, thereby dramatically increasing efficiency and paving the way for commercialization.

Headline: Developing new high-performance and recyclable materials

■ Release Date: 2024.10.25

■ Published by: DGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)

■ Keywords: e-waste, sensor, recycling

■ Abstract:

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking new material poised to advance high-sensitivity recyclable sensor technology. The team created a recyclable high-sensitivity sensor based on the dynamic polymer network. This next-generation material is garnering attention for its ability to combine environmental sustainability with high performance.

Headline: Advancement in 3D-printed concrete promises strength, durability and lower carbon emissions

■ Release Date: 2024.10.25

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

■ Keywords: graphene, concrete, carbon emissions

■ Abstract:

Researchers have created a graphene-enhanced, 3D-printable concrete that improves strength and reduces carbon emissions by 31%, advancing sustainable construction.

Headline: Pushing the boundaries of traditional ceramic techniques

■ Release Date: 2024.10.25

■ Published by: American Chemical Society

■ Keywords: ceramic, graphene, kaolin

■ Abstract:

Art and science are sometimes poles apart, but that isn't the case in a new research project. For this work, an interdisciplinary team merged scientific research, technological advancements and artistic exploration to experiment with the production, properties and application of a new kind of ceramic.