Headline: Existing EV batteries may last up to 40% longer than expected

■ Release Date: 2024.12.9

■ Published by: Stanford University

■ Keywords: batteries, electric vehicles, lithium

■ Abstract:

Consumers' real-world stop-and-go driving of electric vehicles benefits batteries more than the steady use simulated in almost all laboratory tests of new battery designs, a new study finds.

Headline: The last missing piece of silicon photonics

■ Release Date: 2024.12.9

■ Published by: Forschungszentrum Juelich

■ Keywords: silicon, germanium, tin

■ Abstract:

Scientists have developed the first electrically pumped continuous-wave semiconductor laser composed exclusively of elements from the fourth group of the periodic table -- the 'silicon group'. Built from stacked ultrathin layers of silicon germanium-tin and germanium-tin, this new laser is the first of its kind directly grown on a silicon wafer, opening up new possibilities for on-chip integrated photonics.

Headline: Advancing the synthesis of two-dimensional gold monolayers

■ Release Date: 2024.12.10

■ Published by: Hokkaido University

■ Keywords: gold, boron, catalysis

■ Abstract:

Nanostructured two-dimensional gold monolayers offer possibilities in catalysis, electronics, and nanotechnology.

Headline: New concept for sustainable fuel cell polymer electrolytes overcomes barriers in high-temperature, low-humidity use, advancing net-zero carbon goals

■ Release Date: 2024.12.10

■ Published by: Nagoya University

■ Keywords: fuel cell, electrolyte, polymer

■ Abstract:

A research group has developed a new design for the electrolytes used in fuel cells. The material complies with environmental regulations and demonstrates moderate conductivity in harsh conditions, reaching four times the conductivity of cross-linked sulfonated polystyrene, a conventional material. Their findings contribute to developing next-generation fuel cells, paving the way toward achieving net-zero carbon goals.

Headline: Scientists developed a nanolaser: Silver nanocubes enable light generation

■ Release Date: 2024.12.10

■ Published by: Kaunas University of Technology

■ Keywords: silver, nanocubes, nanolaser

■ Abstract:

Scientists have developed a unique nanolaser. Although the dimensions of this laser are so small that its structure can only be seen through a powerful microscope, its potential is vast. With applications in early medical diagnostics, data communication, and security technologies, this invention could also become a key tool for the study of light and matter interactions.

Headline: Study urges Canada to build solar power mega-projects

■ Release Date: 2024.12.11

■ Published by: Simon Fraser University

■ Keywords: solar, green energy, panels

■ Abstract:

Canada should focus on building mass utility-scale solar mega-projects to kickstart its green energy transition, according to a new report. The recommendation comes from a new article which looks at the current state of solar power and compares the benefits of both mass-scale projects and smaller, decentralized approached like individual homes and commercial buildings installing their own solar panels.

Headline: Researchers harness copper versatility to enable control of CO2 reduction products

■ Release Date: 2024.12.11

■ Published by: Advanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University

■ Keywords: copper, catalyst, nanoclusters

■ Abstract:

Just like we recycle waste, repurposing excess CO2 from the atmosphere could be one way to abate the worsening climate crisis. In electrochemical reduction, CO2 is converted into industrial products like carbon monoxide, methane, or ethanol. However, scientists have difficulty tailoring the reaction to produce specific products. Now, an international research team has harnessed the versatility of copper to find a solution to this conundrum.

Headline: Eyes on the Sun: Naked thallium-205 ion decay reveals history over millions of years

■ Release Date: 2024.12.11

■ Published by: GSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung GmbH

■ Keywords: thallium, neutrinos, nuclear fusion

■ Abstract:

The Sun generates its tremendous energy through the process of nuclear fusion. At the same time it releases a continuous stream of neutrinos -- particles that serve as messengers of its internal dynamics. Although modern neutrino detectors unveil the Sun's present behavior, significant questions linger about its stability over periods of millions of years. Finding answers to this is the goal of the LORandite EXperiment (LOREX).

Headline: Metal scrap upcycled into high-value alloys with solid phase manufacturing

■ Release Date: 2024.12.12

■ Published by: DOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory

■ Keywords: alloys, scrap, metal

■ Abstract:

Solid phase manufacturing can create new custom metal alloys through an innovative process called solid phase alloying, researchers report.

Headline: Towards room-temperature superconductivity: Insights into optical properties of bi-based copper-oxide superconductors

■ Release Date: 2024.12.12

■ Published by: Waseda University

■ Keywords: superconductors, copper, lead

■ Abstract:

Copper-oxide (CuO2) superconductors, such as Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+ (Bi2212), have unusually high critical temperatures. Optical reflectivity measurements of Bi2212 have shown that it exhibits strong optical anisotropy. However, this has not been studied through optical transmittance measurements, which can offer more direct insights into bulk properties. Now, researchers have elucidated the origin of this optical anisotropy through ultraviolet and visible light transmittance measurements of lead-doped Bi2212 single crystals, enabling a more precise investigation into its superconductivity mechanisms.