[Images above] Credit: NIST
NANOMATERIALS
Measuring the ‘wettability’ of graphene and other 2D materials
Researchers at the Institute for Basic Science and Korea University revealed vibrational sum-frequency generation spectroscopy could be used for measuring wettability of 2D materials. They succeeded in measuring the vibrational mode of water molecules in interfaces between graphene and water using this spectroscopy.
Glimpse inside a graphene sandwich
University of Innsbruck researchers numerically and analytically studied the phase diagram of a three twisted graphene layer system for different numbers of electrons per moiré unit cell and as a function of electric field.
Rice University researchers developed an acid-based solvent that simplifies carbon nanotube processing in a way that’s less toxic and easy to scale up for industrial applications. The solvent is based on methanesulfonic (MSA), p-toluenesulfonic (pToS)and oleum acids that, when combined, are less corrosive than those currently used.
Wide-temperature range and high-voltage aqueous MXene planar microsupercapacitors
Researchers developed a low-cost, environment-friendly, and high-concentrated LiCl aqueous electrolyte to regulate reaction kinetics of MXene electrode and electrolyte. This discovery not only broadens operation voltage of MXene-based microsupercapacitors by inhibiting oxidation but also increases temperature range owing to a low freezing point.
ENERGY
Hematite photocatalyst, using sunlight energy, produces hydrogen and hydrogen peroxide
Kobe University researchers found that by modifying the surface of their previously developed hematite photocatalyst, they could safely, cheaply, and stably produce hydrogen peroxide as well as hydrogen.
What drives rechargeable battery decay? Depends on how many times you’ve charged it
Researchers led by SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory discovered the factors behind battery decay change over time. Early on, decay seems to be driven by the properties of individual electrode particles, but after several dozen charging cycles, it’s how those particles are put together that matters more.
BIOMATERIALS
New graphite based rapid sensor chip for real-time theophylline monitoring
Shibaura Institute of Technology researchers designed a paper-based theophylline sensor with a response time of 3 seconds. Theophylline is effective in treating respiratory problems and inflammation, but the drug can be toxic if taken above certain limits.
ENVIRONMENT
Turning old phones into furniture to tackle electronic waste
A Bloomberg article details how a Spanish company called La Hormiga Verde provides employment for people with disabilities by making new products from discarded devices.
Scientists use recycled glass waste as sand replacement in 3D printing
Researchers from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore developed the capability to use recycled glass as sand replacement in 3D printing. In the future, the NTU researchers, in collaboration with Singapore start-up company Soda Lemon, will look at 3D printing larger scale and more diverse structures using the recycled glass concrete mix.
Reforming coral reefs using 3D printing
Researchers from four of Israel’s leading universities highlight a 3D printing method they developed to preserve coral reefs. The process combines 3D scanning algorithms with environmental DNA sampling. A 3D printing algorithm allows in-depth examination of the data from each reef as well as tailoring the printed model to a specific reef environment.
MANUFACTURING
Disposable masks could be used to improve concrete
Washington State University researchers showed that concrete containing used mask microfibers mixed with graphene oxide was 47% stronger than commonly used cement after a month of curing.
OTHER STORIES
Better residents’ health after switch to electric buses
University of Gothenburg researchers found that the health of residents living alongside a bus route in Gothenburg, Sweden, became considerably better when hybrid buses were replaced by buses fully powered by electricity. Along with the noise levels there was a reduction of fatigue, day time sleepiness and low mood.
Researchers bridge the gap between disciplines to better understand chemical reactions
Simon Fraser University researchers are yielding new insights into how chemical reactions can be understood and guided. Their findings indicate a deep connection between two previously distinct fields of physics—stochastic thermodynamics, which describes energy and information changes, and transition-path theory, which details reaction mechanisms.
Podcast: Kathy Jordan and the American Glass Guild
On a recent episode of the podcast Talking Out Your Glass, American Glass Guild president Kathy Jordan talks about her glass journey, the American Glass Guild, and the International Year of Glass.
Upcoming exhibition: Conversing in Clay: Ceramics from the LACMA Collection
Opening August 7 through May 21, 2023, Conversing in Clay at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art will explore artistic production in ceramics across the globe. The exhibition places historical works in visual dialogue with contemporary examples to illuminate symbolic meanings, technical achievements, and resonances throughout time.