[Image above] Credit: ACerS
ENERGY
Nine metals, one nanometer: Scientists smash MXene limits in 2D material breakthrough
Purdue University researchers tested the limits of MXene construction by fitting up to nine different metals into a single 2D sheet. They created nearly 40 layered materials with different combinations and found that while smaller metal combinations favor stable ordering, higher numbers lead to “high-entropy” phases where atoms arrange unpredictably.
ENERGY
Gold-enhanced TiO₂ catalyst enables efficient synthesis of propane from methane
Researchers at Hebei University and other institutes in China introduced a new photocatalysis-driven approach to convert methane into propane. The gold-embedded porous TiO2 catalyst enables efficient and selective flow synthesis of propane with a productivity of 1.4 mmol h−1.
Fuel cell electric propulsion system components cross megawatt threshold for the first time
German Aerospace Center researchers reached a milestone with their BALIS fuel cell electric propulsion test system: operating two core components—the fuel cell system and electric motor—each at an output of more than one megawatt.
Self-healing solar glass repairs at 392°F, retains 95% output after recycling
Nankai University researchers synthesized a yellow-emissive material called ETP2SbCl5 phosphor that they turned into a glass. In addition to good energy conversion properties, this glass can undergo reversible transitions between phosphor and glass states at 200°C (392°F), enabling it to heal itself and be reused.
Scandium doping technique extends sodium-ion battery life
Tokyo University of Science researchers revealed how scandium doping can greatly improve the cycling stability of P’2 polytype of Na2/3MnO2 electrodes. It does so by causing smaller particles and altered crystal growth in the electrodes while preserving cooperative Jahn-Teller distortion and superstructure. It also prevents side reactions with liquid electrolytes.
ENVIRONMENT
Recycled glass could help fend off coastal erosion
Louisiana-based glass recycling company Glass Half Full is working with Tulane University researchers to test if a glass–sand mixture can be a viable material for restoring coastal ecosystems.
Sunglasses for plants and sustainable agriculture
Researchers at the University of California, Davis developed a multilayer film that reflects near infrared radiation while allowing photosynthetically active radiation through. Modeling studies show that the cool cover film can reduce water and energy costs while maintaining crop yield and quality.
MANUFACTURING
New material and deposition process could make microchips smaller than ever
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University, working with global partners, used metal–organic materials to create tiny circuits through a higher-powered radiation process called chemical liquid deposition.
OTHER STORIES
Exceptionally low thermal conductivity in crystalline material
Aarhus University researchers measured and explained the exceptionally low thermal conductivity of the crystalline material AgGaGe3Se8. At room temperature, AgGaGe3Se8 exhibits a thermal conductivity of just 0.2 watts per meter-Kelvin—which is three times lower than water and five times lower than typical silica glass. The key lies in the behavior of the silver atoms.
Scientists produce superior gallium oxide semiconductors with double current capacity
Nagoya University researchers created the first functional p–n diodes using gallium oxide. The obstacle to creating this device is that gallium oxide’s crystal structure easily accepts the atoms needed to create n-type layers but rejects the atoms required for p-type layers. To address this challenge, the researchers injected nickel atoms into the gallium oxide layer.