The Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), a leading institute in scientific research, has made a substantial advancement in the field of neutron imaging with the introduction of the Versatile Neutron Imaging Instrument (VENUS). Following approval from the Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Science in July, this state-of-the-art instrument promises to redefine the way researchers
Chemistry
Recent advancements in our understanding of ion behavior in solutions have emerged from a collaborative effort involving researchers from the Fritz Haber Institute, Sorbonne University, and Uppsala University. Their published work in the esteemed journal Nature Communications presents a pioneering exploration into solvation shells—an essential phenomenon when examining how substances interact with solvents in liquid
Environmental pollution from pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) is an urgent issue that demands innovative solutions. These substances, which are common in households worldwide, can have detrimental effects on aquatic ecosystems and, consequently, human health. As these chemicals often enter water systems at trace levels, conventional filtration techniques struggle to isolate and eliminate them
In the realm of skincare and cosmetic product formulation, the quest for unique and effective ingredients often leads researchers to bizarre sources. One recent study has taken this exploration to a new level, focusing on molecules derived from the gut bacteria of fish. While products containing snail mucin, or snail slime, have become trendy due
Photocatalysis is a process in which light energy drives a chemical reaction. Stemming from nature’s photosynthesis, it offers a sustainable alternative to traditional high-temperature reactions. This technology has gained traction as researchers tirelessly pursue ways to enhance the efficiency of these reactions, ideally making them economically viable for widespread industrial application. Central to the success
The advent of hydrogen as a potential clean energy source has captured the attention of scientists and policymakers alike. However, despite its promise, hydrogen storage remains a significant hurdle for its widespread adoption. Unlike traditional fossil fuels such as gasoline, hydrogen possesses unique properties that render its storage both bulky and complicated. With increasing awareness
As the global landscape of biotechnology continues to expand, the demand for innovative techniques to analyze biomolecules within living cells is more pressing than ever. These developments are crucial for multiple applications, including drug therapies and biomanufacturing. Recently, groundbreaking research from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has introduced a novel method leveraging
In the face of escalating climate change and its associated repercussions, the urgency to find effective strategies for reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions has never been more pressing. CO2 emissions are primarily associated with the production of electricity and heat, transportation, and various industrial processes. As researchers explore different methods to tackle this issue, electrochemical
The quest for sustainable energy solutions has led scientists to explore innovative methods of harnessing renewable sources. A pivotal challenge in this endeavor is improving the efficiency of the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), a key process in technologies like water splitting and metal-air batteries. A recent study published in *ACS Catalysis* on August 30, 2024,
The global drive towards sustainable industrial practices has intensified research efforts focused on the conversion of biomass into essential chemical precursors, such as olefins. These precursors serve as building blocks for various products, from plastics to pharmaceuticals. A recent study from Kyushu University has highlighted a novel approach using a zeolite material known as Na-ZSM-5,
The increasing global demand for clean energy technology, medical devices, and advanced electronics has magnified the importance of rare-earth metals, particularly lanthanides. Recent research from the Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) in collaboration with Vanderbilt University has introduced a novel chemical compound termed a “chameleon,” which offers promising enhancements to the extraction
As the world grapples with an escalating energy crisis, hydrogen energy emerges as a beacon of hope, boasting properties that are green, low-carbon, and highly calorific. With the growing urgency to transition to renewable energy sources, hydrogen stands out as a potential game changer. It promises not only to fuel vehicles but also to power