Headline: Nanoscale transistors could enable more efficient electronics

■ Release Date: 2024.11.4

■ Published by: Massachusetts Institute of Technology

■ Keywords: silicon, semiconductor, transistors

■ Abstract:

Nanoscale 3D transistors made from ultrathin semiconductor materials can operate more efficiently than silicon-based devices, leveraging quantum mechanical properties to potentially enable ultra-low-power AI applications.

Headline: Cobalt-copper tandem converts carbon dioxide to ethanol

■ Release Date: 2024.11.4

■ Published by: Johannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz

■ Keywords: cobalt, copper, ethanol

■ Abstract:

The continuing release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere is a major driver of global warming and climate change with increased extreme weather events. Researchers have now presented a method for effectively converting carbon dioxide into ethanol, which is then available as a sustainable raw material for chemical applications.

Headline: Leveraging machine learning to find promising compositions for sodium-ion batteries

■ Release Date: 2024.11.5

■ Published by: Tokyo University of Science

■ Keywords: sodium-ion, batteries, lithium

■ Abstract:

Sodium-containing transition-metal layered oxides are promising electrode materials for sodium-ion batteries, a potential alternative to lithium-ion batteries. However, the vast number of possible elemental compositions for their electrodes makes identifying optimal compositions challenging. In a recent study, researchers leveraged extensive experimental data and machine learning to predict the optimal composition of sodium-ion batteries. Their approach could help reduce time and resources needed during exploratory research, speeding up the transition to renewable energy.

Headline: Advancing the science of superconductivity

■ Release Date: 2024.11.5

■ Published by: University of Illinois Chicago

■ Keywords: rare earth, hydrides, superconductors

■ Abstract:

Materials called cubic rare earth hydrides could be superconductors in everyday conditions.

Headline: Towards a hydrogen-powered future: Highly sensitive hydrogen detection system

■ Release Date: 2024.11.5

■ Published by: Chiba University

■ Keywords: hydrogen, fuel, energy

■ Abstract:

Hydrogen, a promising fuel, has extensive applications in many sectors. However, its safe and widespread use necessitates reliable sensing methods. While tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLAS) has proved to be an effective gas sensing method, detecting hydrogen using TDLAS is difficult due to its weak light absorption property in the infrared region. Addressing this issue, researchers developed an innovative calibration-free technique that significantly enhances the accuracy and detection limits for sensing hydrogen using TDLAS.

Headline: Investigating performance limitations in cost-effective materials for perovskite solar cells

■ Release Date: 2024.11.6

■ Published by: University of Tsukuba

■ Keywords: perovskite, solar cells, charge

■ Abstract:

Researchers investigated the internal properties of low-cost materials used in perovskite solar cells, which are attracting attention for their high efficiency, using electron spin resonance (ESR) to analyze these materials at a microscopic level. The results clarify the underlying causes for reduced device performance, despite high local charge mobility, offering critical insights for designing improved solar cells.

Headline: Power grids supplied largely by renewable sources experience lower intensity blackouts

■ Release Date: 2024.11.6

■ Published by: Trinity College Dublin

■ Keywords: renewable energy, blackout, power grids

■ Abstract:

New research into the vulnerability of power grids served by weather-dependent renewable energy sources (WD-RESs) such as solar and wind paints a hopeful picture as various countries around the globe attempt to meet their climate emissions targets -- with the research showing grids with high penetration of WD-RESs tend to have reduced blackout intensities in the US.

Headline: Researchers drive solid-state innovation for renewable energy storage

■ Release Date: 2024.11.8

■ Published by: DOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory

■ Keywords: battery, renewable energy, electrolyte

■ Abstract:

Scientists are developing a formula for success -- by studying how a new type of battery fails. The team's goal is the design for long-term storage of wind and solar energy, which are produced intermittently, enabling their broader use as reliable energy sources for the electric grid.