Category: Energy & Green Tech
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G20 countries could produce enough renewable energy for the whole world: What needs to happen
G20 countries could produce enough renewable energy for the whole world: What needs to happen The world’s most developed economies have also burned the most oil and coal (fossil fuels) over the years, causing the most climate change damage. Preventing further climate change means a global fossil fuel phase-out must happen by 2050. Climate change…
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New approach models potential and trade-offs of floating solar
New approach models potential and trade-offs of floating solar Floating solar, the practice of placing solar panels on bodies of water, can generate even more electricity per square foot than terrestrial solar. But researchers are just starting to understand the impacts of floating solar on biodiversity and climate—so how should the new technology be implemented?…
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Advanced steelmaking technologies could substantially reduce carbon emissions
Advanced steelmaking technologies could substantially reduce carbon emissions The long-term aspirational goal of the Paris Agreement on climate change is to cap global warming at 1.5 degrees Celsius above preindustrial levels, and thereby reduce the frequency and severity of floods, droughts, wildfires, and other extreme weather events. Achieving that goal will require a massive reduction…
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High-performance water electrolysis without platinum brings hydrogen economy closer
High-performance water electrolysis without platinum brings hydrogen economy closer Hydrogen is gaining attention as a clean energy source that emits no carbon. Among various methods, water electrolysis, which splits water into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity, is recognized as an eco-friendly hydrogen production method. Go to techxplore
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Bubbles are key to new surface coating method for lightweight magnesium alloys
Bubbles are key to new surface coating method for lightweight magnesium alloys A team led by a researcher from Tokyo Metropolitan University has devised a new way of coating magnesium alloys to improve their corrosion resistance. Instead of costly, unwieldy, and slower coating techniques under vacuum, they used liquid-based chemical conversion coating with the addition…
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New class of SrHfSe₃ chalcogenide perovskite solar cells with diverse HTMs may make more efficient solar tech
New class of SrHfSe₃ chalcogenide perovskite solar cells with diverse HTMs may make more efficient solar tech The photovoltaic industry has witnessed a remarkable breakthrough with the advent of lead halide perovskite solar cells (LHPSCs), which have achieved outstanding power conversion efficiencies (PCEs); 25% in single-junction and 29% in monolithic tandem configurations. Despite this progress,…
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Hard-to-recycle thermoset waste plastics reborn as hydrogen
Hard-to-recycle thermoset waste plastics reborn as hydrogen A research team has successfully developed the Republic of Korea’s first continuous oxy-fuel combustion-based process for producing high-quality syngas from waste plastics, including hard-to-recycle thermoset resins. The team was led by Dr. Chong-Pyo Cho from the Energy Convergence System Research Department at the Korea Institute of Energy Research…
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Australia’s latest emissions data reveal we still have a giant fossil fuel problem
Australia’s latest emissions data reveal we still have a giant fossil fuel problem According to Australia’s Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen, the latest emissions data show “we are on track to reach our 2030 targets” under the Paris Agreement. In 2024, Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions were “27% below 2005 levels”. That’s great news,…
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Green technology uses corn stover to produce high-value bioderivatives and generate savings
Green technology uses corn stover to produce high-value bioderivatives and generate savings In a study published in the Biofuel Research Journal, researchers affiliated with the State University of Campinas (UNICAMP) and the Federal Technological University of Paraná (UTFPR) in Brazil evaluated the efficiency and environmental impact of using corn stover with a technique that uses…
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Goods delivered by nuclear power? UN agency chief meets Greek shipowners to discuss the idea
Goods delivered by nuclear power? UN agency chief meets Greek shipowners to discuss the idea The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Rafael Mariano Grossi, met with Greek shipowners on Thursday to discuss the potential use of nuclear power in future global goods transportation. Go to techxplore
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AI may soon account for half of data center power use if trends persist
AI may soon account for half of data center power use if trends persist Alex de Vries-Gao, a PhD candidate at VU Amsterdam Institute for Environmental Studies, has published an opinion piece about the results of a simple study he conducted involving the possible amount of electricity used by AI companies to generate answers to…
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Trump signs orders to boost US nuclear energy
Trump signs orders to boost US nuclear energy President Donald Trump signed a series of executive orders Friday to boost nuclear energy in the United States, including by rolling back regulatory processes on a still divisive technology. Go to techxplore
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Rooftop solar and EV batteries could supply 85% of Japan’s electricity needs
Rooftop solar and EV batteries could supply 85% of Japan’s electricity needs A new study led by Tohoku University has revealed that rooftop solar panels, when combined with electric vehicles (EVs) as batteries, could supply 85% of Japan’s electricity demand and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 87%. The research provides a promising pathway for Japan’s…
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Geometric adjustment helps boost efficiency and durability of perovskite photovoltaic cells
Geometric adjustment helps boost efficiency and durability of perovskite photovoltaic cells Perovskite solar cells are shaping up to be one of the most promising elements in the future of solar energy. Lighter, more flexible and potentially cheaper than current silicon-based cells, these photoelectric cells are still saddled by a major challenge: their low stability over…
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Study shows how EV manufacturers can reduce reliance on virgin rare earth minerals
Study shows how EV manufacturers can reduce reliance on virgin rare earth minerals Faced with uncertain supply and soaring prices for rare earth minerals, electric vehicle manufacturers could nevertheless reduce their material demands by nearly 15% by remanufacturing and reusing components, a recent study shows. Go to techxplore
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Simple process extends lifetime of perovskite solar cells
Simple process extends lifetime of perovskite solar cells A study carried out at the Federal University of ABC (UFABC), in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, presents a new way to mitigate the rapid degradation of perovskite solar cells. The problem, which limits the use of these devices in everyday life, has challenged researchers in…
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PhD researcher focuses on clean energy justice for underserved communities
PhD researcher focuses on clean energy justice for underserved communities Growing up in Lagos, Nigeria, Emmanuel Taiwo developed a deep interest in how environmental and social issues intersect to influence lived experiences and outcomes for different communities. Go to techxplore
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Sustainable method produces high-purity material for use in green hydrogen production
Sustainable method produces high-purity material for use in green hydrogen production A group of researchers affiliated with the Center for Innovation in New Energies (CINE) has developed a method for purifying materials that is simple, economical and has a low environmental impact. The scientists have managed to improve the efficiency of a film that can…
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Record-setting lithium-ion conductors: Researchers develop new material for solid-state batteries
Record-setting lithium-ion conductors: Researchers develop new material for solid-state batteries Researchers at TUM and TUMint.Energy Research have taken a significant step towards improving solid-state batteries. They developed a new material made of lithium, antimony and scandium that conducts lithium ions more than 30% faster than any previously known material. The work is published in the…
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A hot topic: How temperature increase drives energy loss in fuel cells
A hot topic: How temperature increase drives energy loss in fuel cells By splitting water molecules, fuel cells can turn electricity into hydrogen fuel. Running in the opposite direction, they consume hydrogen fuel to cleanly power multiple sectors. Typically, heat is a key ingredient for achieving high energy conversion efficiencies that can beat out combustion-based…
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Research reveals hidden gifts of the ‘black box’ for modeling grid behavior
Research reveals hidden gifts of the ‘black box’ for modeling grid behavior To create a more resilient electric grid that meets the nation’s increasing power demands, utilities are incorporating a wider array of energy sources. But this shift requires the ability to predict how the grid will react to fluctuations in the flow of electricity…
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On-demand Lewis base formation strategy boosts efficiency and stability of perovskite solar cells
On-demand Lewis base formation strategy boosts efficiency and stability of perovskite solar cells Solar cells based on perovskites, materials with a characteristic crystal structure first unveiled in the mineral calcium titanate (CaTiO3), have emerged as a promising alternative to conventional silicon-based photovoltaics. A key advantage of these materials is that they could yield high power…
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US solar tariffs could drive Asia transition boom
US solar tariffs could drive Asia transition boom Massive planned US duties on solar panels made in Southeast Asia could be a chance for the region to ramp up its own long-stalled energy transition, experts say. Go to techxplore
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Eco-friendly kilns help Malawi’s fish curers cut losses
Eco-friendly kilns help Malawi’s fish curers cut losses Closing his eyes as he battled smoke wafting from fish-smoking kilns in front of him, Issah Amin put more wood into one of seven ovens at Chikombe beach, a fish-landing site on Lake Malawi. Go to techxplore
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Pores for thought: Weighing the environmental costs of carbon capture materials
Pores for thought: Weighing the environmental costs of carbon capture materials A new life-cycle assessment comparing the production impacts of three materials used in carbon dioxide capture technology has highlighted the environmental trade-offs involved in using such materials. The research, published in the International Journal of Global Warming, analyzed the emissions associated with manufacturing, a…
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All-organic solar cells achieve record efficiency by doubling previous performance
All-organic solar cells achieve record efficiency by doubling previous performance As global efforts to combat climate change continue, demand for solar energy is growing. However, since the current most-used silicon-based solar panels include a variety of hazardous substances, their disposal or recycling causes environmental impact and incurs substantial costs. Go to techxplore
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A green technology for the closed-loop recycling of vat dyed textiles
A green technology for the closed-loop recycling of vat dyed textiles It is becoming harder and harder to ignore the environmental costs of textiles, and demand is still growing by leaps and bounds each year. Go to techxplore
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More power grid connectivity in Western US could supercharge clean energy
More power grid connectivity in Western US could supercharge clean energy A new study led by researchers at the University of California San Diego offers a first-of-its-kind look at how deeper coordination among Western U.S. states could lower the cost of decarbonizing the electric grid—and speed up the clean energy transition. Go to techxplore
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China’s CATL launches new EV sodium battery
China’s CATL launches new EV sodium battery Chinese battery giant CATL launched on Monday a new sodium-ion battery it says will restructure the electric car industry, and a new system to combine two battery technologies into one car. Go to techxplore
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Scientists develop pneumatic propellers that could replace diesel engines in ferry boats
Scientists develop pneumatic propellers that could replace diesel engines in ferry boats Scientists say they have created a methodology that could replace two diesel engines powering a ferry boat with pneumatic propellers. Go to techxplore
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Lithium oxide sublimation opens doors for cheaper and quicker battery manufacturing
Lithium oxide sublimation opens doors for cheaper and quicker battery manufacturing A common lithium salt has revealed new possibilities for manufacturing cheaper, longer-lasting battery materials. Go to techxplore
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Going green: Fluoride additive boosts water-processed perovskite solar cells
Going green: Fluoride additive boosts water-processed perovskite solar cells A research team at Queensland University of Technology (QUT) has developed an eco-friendly method to fabricate perovskite solar cells (PSCs) by incorporating a fluoride additive into a water-based solution. This approach eliminates the use of toxic solvents typically required in PSC production, while achieving power conversion…
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‘Slow travel’ start-up launches cross-Channel crossings by sail
‘Slow travel’ start-up launches cross-Channel crossings by sail The crossing may be “a bit choppy,” Captain Andrew Simons warns a dozen of his passengers waiting in the French port of Boulogne to cross the Channel with only wind to get them to England. Go to techxplore
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A fluid battery that can take any shape
A fluid battery that can take any shape Using electrodes in a fluid form, researchers at Linköping University have developed a battery that can take any shape. This soft and conformable battery can be integrated into future technology in a completely new way. Their study has been published in the journal Science Advances. Go to…
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Mechanistic understanding could enable better fast-charging batteries
Mechanistic understanding could enable better fast-charging batteries Fast-charging lithium-ion batteries are ubiquitous, powering everything from cellphones and laptops to electric vehicles. They’re also notorious for overheating or catching fire. Go to techxplore
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Burning heavy fuel oil with scrubbers found to be the best available option for bulk maritime shipping
Burning heavy fuel oil with scrubbers found to be the best available option for bulk maritime shipping When the International Maritime Organization enacted a mandatory cap on the sulfur content of marine fuels in 2020, with an eye toward reducing harmful environmental and health impacts, it left shipping companies with several main options. Go to…
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Strain ‘trick’ improves perovskite solar cells’ efficiency
Strain ‘trick’ improves perovskite solar cells’ efficiency Researchers at EPFL have found a way to dramatically reduce energy loss and boost efficiency in perovskite solar cells by incorporating rubidium using lattice strain—a slight deformation in the atomic structure that helps keep rubidium in place. Go to techxplore
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Converting the forest industry’s carbon dioxide emissions into raw material for plastics
Converting the forest industry’s carbon dioxide emissions into raw material for plastics VTT Technical Research Center of Finland and LUT University have completed a three-year research project on carbon capture and utilization. The project investigated different technologies for producing renewable plastic raw materials from carbon dioxide and green hydrogen. Renewable energy, hydrogen economy and forest…
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Scientists investigate soil as a thermal energy storage solution
Scientists investigate soil as a thermal energy storage solution When spring arrives and the heating season comes to an end, keeping warm becomes less of an issue. However, scientists remind us that it is not just a seasonal necessity—heat is also a valuable energy resource that can be stored and used when needed most. Researchers…
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Adjusting electricity use could postpone expensive power investments
Adjusting electricity use could postpone expensive power investments Norwegian hydropower provides stability in the power market, but a more even power consumption in Norwegian building stock could have an impact on the electricity production of hydropower, a new SINTEF study published in the journal Energy shows. Go to techxplore
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Hidden surface degradation mechanism discovered in cathodes of lithium-ion batteries
Hidden surface degradation mechanism discovered in cathodes of lithium-ion batteries A research team has identified a previously unknown degradation mechanism that occurs during the use of lithium-ion batteries. Their findings are published in Advanced Energy Materials. Go to techxplore
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Information and communication technology in US could do more to combat rising CO₂ emissions, study says
Information and communication technology in US could do more to combat rising CO₂ emissions, study says Information and communication technology (ICT) is a factor augmenting CO2 emissions in the United States and doing little to address the host of environmental challenges facing the planet, research published in the journal Environmental Sciences Europe suggests. Go to…
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Tunisian startup turns olive waste into clean energy
Tunisian startup turns olive waste into clean energy In a northern Tunisian olive grove, Yassine Khelifi’s small workshop hums as a large machine turns olive waste into a valuable energy source in a country heavily reliant on imported fuel. Go to techxplore
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Green solvent innovation: High-speed doctor-blading boosts organic solar cell efficiency
Green solvent innovation: High-speed doctor-blading boosts organic solar cell efficiency In a recent advancement, researchers have developed a high-speed doctor-blading technique that enhances the efficiency of organic solar cells (OSCs) while using eco-friendly, non-halogenated solvents. Go to techxplore
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Optical innovations for solar modules—which are the most promising?
Optical innovations for solar modules—which are the most promising? In 2023, photovoltaic systems generated more than 5% of the world’s electrical energy and the installed capacity doubles every two to three years. Optical technologies can further increase the efficiency of solar modules and open up new applications, such as colored solar modules for facades. Go…
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New technology halves cost of recycling activated carbon for removing harmful substances
New technology halves cost of recycling activated carbon for removing harmful substances A research team from the Korea Institute of Energy Research has developed a technology that efficiently manages volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from small-scale businesses and recycles them with lower energy consumption compared to existing methods. Notably, this technology can be applied to…
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Cyprus to fund desalination plants at hotels to reduce impact of water shortages on tourism
Cyprus to fund desalination plants at hotels to reduce impact of water shortages on tourism Cyprus said Wednesday it plans to subsidize construction of private desalination plants at hotels to ensure the tourism-reliant island nation has enough fresh water to see it through busy summer seasons when the demands of millions of visitors put a…
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Novel synthesis method boosts efficiency of organic solar cells
Novel synthesis method boosts efficiency of organic solar cells A research team led by Prof. Ge Ziyi from the Ningbo Institute of Materials Technology and Engineering from the Chinese Academy of Sciences has developed a low-crystallinity guest acceptor, D-IDT, using a tin-free direct C–H activation method that they incorporated as a third component into binary…
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Technology advances could multiply geothermal output five-fold
Technology advances could multiply geothermal output five-fold Far below the Earth’s surface is an energy source with huge and perpetual potential: geothermal heat. But the forces in its scorching and inhospitable depths must be tamed. Now scientists know what that will take. Go to techxplore
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Boosting the efficiency of sustainable aviation fuel production
Boosting the efficiency of sustainable aviation fuel production Fuels like kerosene can be produced in a climate-friendly way from CO2, water and green electricity using power-to-liquid processes. Researchers from Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) have already demonstrated this with systems in actual operation. Go to techxplore
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Novel solid-state electrolyte developed to enhance performance of all-solid-state lithium-ion batteries
Novel solid-state electrolyte developed to enhance performance of all-solid-state lithium-ion batteries All-solid-state lithium-ion batteries (ASSBs) have garnered attention for their high energy density and superior safety. However, their commercialization remains challenging due to the lack of solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) with both high ionic conductivity and stable interfaces. To date, only a few SSEs have achieved…
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Solid-state lithium batteries may not deliver expected energy boost, study says
Solid-state lithium batteries may not deliver expected energy boost, study says A recent study evaluating garnet-type solid electrolytes for lithium metal batteries finds that their expected energy density advantages may be overstated. The research reveals that an all-solid-state lithium metal battery (ASSLMB) using lithium lanthanum zirconium oxide (LLZO) would achieve a gravimetric energy density of…
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A new nanoplastic paves the way for sustainable street lighting
A new nanoplastic paves the way for sustainable street lighting A new study resulting from a collaboration between King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) shows how nanomaterials can significantly reduce the carbon emissions of LED (light-emitting diode) streetlights. The research team estimates that by…
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Innovative hydrogen production: Scientists eliminate tar in gasification
Innovative hydrogen production: Scientists eliminate tar in gasification As the global demand for sustainable energy solutions continues to grow, Lithuanian researchers have taken a step forward by developing a technology that not only transforms waste into valuable hydrogen but also eliminates a long-standing issue in gasification—the presence of tar. This new method offers an efficient…
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Ultra-thin solid electrolyte membrane for all-solid-state secondary batteries developed
Ultra-thin solid electrolyte membrane for all-solid-state secondary batteries developed Korean researchers have succeeded in developing a key technology for all-solid-state secondary batteries, known as next-generation lithium-ion batteries due to their high safety. The work was published online as a cover study in Small at the end of last year. Go to techxplore
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Carbon capture industry tweaks message for the Trump era
Carbon capture industry tweaks message for the Trump era Backers of carbon capture and storage are emphasizing compatibility with President Trump’s energy development goals as they seek to protect hard-won US policies from the administration’s climate chopping block. Go to techxplore
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Nickel-based cathodes may pave a path to safer, high-energy electric vehicle batteries
Nickel-based cathodes may pave a path to safer, high-energy electric vehicle batteries Nickel’s role in the future of electric vehicle batteries is clear: It’s more abundant and easier to obtain than widely used cobalt, and its higher energy density means longer driving distances between charges. Go to techxplore
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Lithium needed for the battery revolution could be harvested from saltwater lakes thanks to a new membrane
Lithium needed for the battery revolution could be harvested from saltwater lakes thanks to a new membrane Demand for lithium is rising due to its use in batteries for mobile devices, cars and clean energy storage. Securing access to natural deposits of the mineral is now a matter of strategic importance, but lithium can be…
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Machine learning precisely predicts material characteristics for high-performance photovoltaics
Machine learning precisely predicts material characteristics for high-performance photovoltaics In the lab, perovskite solar cells show high efficiency in converting solar energy into electricity. In combination with silicon solar cells, they could play a role in the next generation of photovoltaic systems. Now researchers at KIT have demonstrated that machine learning is a crucial tool…
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Scientists introduce c-MOFs in emerging SrZrS₃ chalcogenide perovskites for efficient solar cells
Scientists introduce c-MOFs in emerging SrZrS₃ chalcogenide perovskites for efficient solar cells A study led by Dr. Latha Marasamy, a research professor at the Autonomous University of Querétaro, Mexico, is setting the stage for advancements in solar energy technology. The research team has made a significant breakthrough by exploring the capabilities of SrZrS3 absorbers in…
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New method significantly reduces AI energy consumption
New method significantly reduces AI energy consumption AI applications such as large language models (LLMs) have become an integral part of our everyday lives. The required computing, storage and transmission capacities are provided by data centers that consume vast amounts of energy. In Germany alone, this amounted to about 16 billion kWh in 2020, or…
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Rooftop lab: Improving the understanding of optimal orientation and tilt of solar panels in northern climate conditions
Rooftop lab: Improving the understanding of optimal orientation and tilt of solar panels in northern climate conditions The performance of photovoltaic systems (PV) in northern conditions has been measured at the University of Oulu, Finland, with two research infrastructures comprising 40 solar panels, including a unique panel carousel system on the roof of the Linnanmaa…
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Preventing hydrogen vehicle accidents in advance: Equipment monitors hydrogen fuel quality in real-time
Preventing hydrogen vehicle accidents in advance: Equipment monitors hydrogen fuel quality in real-time The Korea Research Institute of Standards and Science has developed equipment that monitors the quality of hydrogen fuel supplied to vehicles through hydrogen refueling stations in real-time. This equipment is expected to prevent hydrogen vehicle accidents caused by impurities in the hydrogen…
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An eco-friendly, inexpensive system for storing high-power energy from pine biomass
An eco-friendly, inexpensive system for storing high-power energy from pine biomass The Solid State and Materials Research Group has come up with a lithium-ion capacitor using electrodes produced from wood particles that are discarded as waste in sawmills. This biomass is very easily available across the Basque Country, and sustainable, inexpensive processes have been used…
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Italy breaks ‘taboo’ with push to revive nuclear
Italy breaks ‘taboo’ with push to revive nuclear Italy’s cabinet opened the door Friday to a return to nuclear power, aiming to overturn nearly 40 years of opposition—though experts say any revival is at least a decade away. Go to techxplore
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Anode-free solid-state batteries: Fundamental insights bring them a step closer to practical use
Anode-free solid-state batteries: Fundamental insights bring them a step closer to practical use From laptops to electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries power everyday life. However, as demand for longer-lasting devices threatens to outstrip the energy that lithium-ion supplies, researchers are on the hunt for more powerful batteries. Go to techxplore
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Advanced imagery and ultra-thin coatings could enhance performance of solid-state batteries
Advanced imagery and ultra-thin coatings could enhance performance of solid-state batteries From electric vehicles to wireless earbuds, traditional lithium-ion batteries power our daily lives as they charge fast and store plenty of energy. However, they rely on a solution known as liquid electrolyte, which can catch on fire if damaged or overheated. Go to techxplore
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Seawater purification technique outperforms commonly used materials, even activated carbon
Seawater purification technique outperforms commonly used materials, even activated carbon Researchers have discovered a new technique for improving the electrodes that convert seawater into potable water using oxygen. The findings were reported in Nature Communications. The research was led by Yusuke Yamauchi at Nagoya University, Japan in collaboration with Xingtao Xu at Zhejiang Ocean University,…
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Researchers transform textile waste into stronger recycled paper
Researchers transform textile waste into stronger recycled paper Until now, old clothes have mainly been incinerated. Using adapted processes from paper production, it is possible to recover the cellulose fibers from used clothing and use them to produce cardboard and other packaging materials. Go to techxplore
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Largest carbon dioxide separation technology for power generation developed in South Korea
Largest carbon dioxide separation technology for power generation developed in South Korea Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER) has successfully demonstrated the world’s largest gas power generation technology capable of inherently separating carbon dioxide. They have also become the first in the world to use this approach to successfully generate steam for electricity production. Go…
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Tin foam powers new battery electrode innovation
Tin foam powers new battery electrode innovation Metal-based electrodes in lithium-ion batteries promise significantly higher capacities than conventional graphite electrodes. Unfortunately, they degrade due to mechanical stress during charging and discharging cycles. A team at HZB has now shown that a highly porous tin foam is much better at absorbing mechanical stress during charging cycles.…
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Enhanced battery electrode could enable more than 600 km of travel on single charge
Enhanced battery electrode could enable more than 600 km of travel on single charge A research team led by Professor Kyeong-Min Jeong in the School of Energy and Chemical Engineering at UNIST, has unveiled an electrode that is five times thicker than existing models, utilizing the dry process. Go to techxplore
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Scientists cook up a green recipe for recycling lithium-ion batteries using vegetable oil
Scientists cook up a green recipe for recycling lithium-ion batteries using vegetable oil University of Leicester scientists have developed a technique for sustainably extracting valuable metals from a waste product of used batteries with a mix of water and cooking oil. Go to techxplore
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Enhanced geothermal systems promise wider access to clean energy
Enhanced geothermal systems promise wider access to clean energy Historically, access to geothermal energy has hinged on real estate’s famously three most important factors: location, location, and location. Because conventional geothermal power plants require hot, permeable rocks and plenty of underground fluid, use of the technology has been limited mostly to places with recent volcanism,…
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Perovskite solar cells: Thermal stresses are key to long-term stability
Perovskite solar cells: Thermal stresses are key to long-term stability Perovskite solar cells are highly efficient and low cost in production. However, they still lack stability over the decades under real weather conditions. An international research collaboration led by Prof. Antonio Abate has now published a perspective on this topic in the journal Nature Reviews…
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High-performance sodium-ion cathode paves the way for lithium-ion battery alternative
High-performance sodium-ion cathode paves the way for lithium-ion battery alternative For decades, scientists have sought ways to counter our dependence on lithium-ion batteries. These traditional, rechargeable batteries energize today’s most ubiquitous consumer electronics—from laptops to cell phones to electric cars. But raw lithium is expensive and is often sourced through fragile geopolitical networks. Go to…
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Enhanced cathode materials could expand electric vehicle driving range
Enhanced cathode materials could expand electric vehicle driving range A research team has advanced cathode materials, a key component of electric vehicle batteries. Their findings could usher in a new chapter in the development of high-capacity high-safety lithium-ion battery materials. Their paper is published in the journal ACS Nano. Go to techxplore
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Heat pumps have a coziness problem
Heat pumps have a coziness problem How we keep warm at home accounts for 17% of the UK’s greenhouse gas emissions. The UK cannot reach net zero emissions, and end its contribution to climate change, without ending its reliance on natural gas as the dominant source of heating. Go to techxplore
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Scientists create hydrogen with no direct CO₂ emissions at source
Scientists create hydrogen with no direct CO₂ emissions at source A new way of creating hydrogen, which eliminates direct CO2 emissions at source, has been developed by an international team of scientists. Go to techxplore
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Alkalinity on demand: AI and smartphones enable rapid water quality analysis
Alkalinity on demand: AI and smartphones enable rapid water quality analysis Scientists have developed a technique for water alkalinity analysis that requires no specialized equipment, using only artificial intelligence and smartphone technology. This method allows for the rapid and accurate measurement of alkalinity levels across diverse water matrices, from freshwater to saltwater, making water quality…
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Sustainable economic growth in South Africa will come from renewables, not coal: What our model shows
Sustainable economic growth in South Africa will come from renewables, not coal: What our model shows Coal-fired power stations produce 85% of South Africa’s electricity, making the country the biggest producer of harmful greenhouse-gas emissions in Africa. To move away from coal and meet its commitment to reaching net zero emissions by 2050, South Africa…
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Prototype turns car and helicopter exhaust into thermoelectric energy
Prototype turns car and helicopter exhaust into thermoelectric energy Combustion engines, the engines in gas-powered cars, only use a quarter of the fuel’s potential energy while the rest is lost as heat through exhaust. Go to techxplore
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Waste to wealth: Pomelo peel can be used for electricity generation and sensing devices
Waste to wealth: Pomelo peel can be used for electricity generation and sensing devices Pomelo is a large citrus fruit commonly grown in Southeast and East Asia. It has a very thick peel, which is typically discarded, resulting in a considerable amount of food waste. In a new study published in ACS Applied Materials &…
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Electric vehicles yield fewer non-exhaust emissions than non-electric, study finds
Electric vehicles yield fewer non-exhaust emissions than non-electric, study finds No exhaust means no emissions, right? Not quite. It is commonly known that while electric vehicles do not produce tailpipe greenhouse gas emissions while driving, they do create debris from tire and brake abrasion. However, the degree to which they do and how that compares…
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Solar homes shine in summer, struggle in winter blackouts
Solar homes shine in summer, struggle in winter blackouts As winter storms and summer heat waves increasingly stress the nation’s power grids, Stevens researchers have developed a new way to identify the homes most vulnerable to blackouts—without even visiting them. Go to techxplore
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X-ray study sheds light on cost-effective fuel cell material that could rival platinum
X-ray study sheds light on cost-effective fuel cell material that could rival platinum Cornell researchers have captured an unprecedented, real-time view of how a promising catalyst material transforms during operation, providing new insights that could lead to replacement of expensive precious metals in clean-energy technologies. Go to techxplore
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Taking the ‘forever’ out of ‘forever chemicals’: Scientists work out how to destroy the PFAS in batteries
Taking the ‘forever’ out of ‘forever chemicals’: Scientists work out how to destroy the PFAS in batteries Lithium-ion batteries are part of everyday life. They power small rechargeable devices such as mobile phones and laptops. They enable electric vehicles. And larger versions store excess renewable energy for later use, supporting the clean energy transition. Go…
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One step closer to the green hydrogen era: New material boosts production efficiency and reduces costs
One step closer to the green hydrogen era: New material boosts production efficiency and reduces costs Researchers in Korea have successfully developed a new material that significantly enhances the efficiency of green hydrogen production while reducing costs. Go to techxplore
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Balancing clean energy and health: Addressing battery production’s environmental impact
Balancing clean energy and health: Addressing battery production’s environmental impact Batteries power the clean energy transition, but their production comes at a cost—environmental and human health impacts from critical mineral extraction and processing. In a new study published in Resources, Conservation and Recycling, an international team of researchers along with Dr. Asaf Tzachor, Co-Founder of…
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World’s longest cargo sail ship launched in Turkey
World’s longest cargo sail ship launched in Turkey The world’s longest wind-powered cargo ship was launched Friday in Turkey, offering a promising way to slash carbon emissions from merchandise trade. Go to techxplore
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New method for sustainable lithium extraction could reduce emissions by 75%
New method for sustainable lithium extraction could reduce emissions by 75% With an electric current and hydrogen peroxide, researchers at Penn State have developed a more efficient way to extract lithium, a key component in the batteries used in electric vehicles and portable electric devices, directly from ore found in the common mineral spodumene. The…
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Researchers propose novel approaches for improved microgrid management
Researchers propose novel approaches for improved microgrid management Microgrids are localized energy systems that provide stable power supply, especially in remote or disaster-prone areas. As the world transitions to renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, microgrids are becoming more essential. Go to techxplore
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Trump casts chill over US wind energy sector
Trump casts chill over US wind energy sector Donald Trump has long ranted against wind energy—claiming turbines are unsightly, dangerous to wildlife and too expensive—with him threatening to upend decades of industry progress just a few hours after resuming power. Go to techxplore
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Rubbish roads: Nepal explores paving with plastic
Rubbish roads: Nepal explores paving with plastic Cars speeding along a smooth, black-colored street in Nepal’s Pokhara are also driving over heaps of discarded plastic, transformed into an ingredient in road construction. Go to techxplore
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New 2-liter ammonia-fueled engine developed, showing improved thermal efficiency and power output
New 2-liter ammonia-fueled engine developed, showing improved thermal efficiency and power output A 2-liter engine utilizing ammonia, a renewable and zero-carbon energy source, has been developed. This groundbreaking technology is expected to serve as a foundational platform for various applications, including vehicles, ships, aircraft, and industrial power generators. Go to techxplore
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Efficient solid oxide fuel cell system could power ships with ammonia-derived hydrogen
Efficient solid oxide fuel cell system could power ships with ammonia-derived hydrogen In the global quest for sustainable maritime solutions, a study led by researchers from the China–UK Low Carbon College at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, in collaboration with the Energy Institute at University College London and the School of Mechanical Engineering at Shanghai Jiao…
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Plastic supercapacitors could solve energy storage problems
Plastic supercapacitors could solve energy storage problems Plastics have shaped our modern world and changed the way we live. For decades, they have been primarily used in electronics for their excellent insulating properties. But in the 1970s, scientists accidentally discovered that some plastics can also conduct electricity. This finding revolutionized the field and opened the…
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Lithium-sulfur battery retains 80% charge capacity after 25,000 cycles
Lithium-sulfur battery retains 80% charge capacity after 25,000 cycles An international team of engineers and materials scientists has developed a lithium-sulfur battery capable of retaining 80% of its charge capacity after 25,000 cycles. Their paper is published in the journal Nature. Go to techxplore
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Charging forward: The impact of electrifying heavy-duty vehicles on the grid
Charging forward: The impact of electrifying heavy-duty vehicles on the grid Electric heavy-duty vehicles offer significant advantages, including reduced noise pollution and lower emissions. However, there’s still a disadvantage to overcome—too many heavy-duty electric vehicles (EVs) could overload the grid. Go to techxplore
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Charging infrastructure of medium voltage station upgraded to megawatt class
Charging infrastructure of medium voltage station upgraded to megawatt class In the future, charging stations along freeways, in parking lots or at logistics centers will have to deliver much more power in a short space of time than they do today. For this reason, new charging stations can no longer simply be connected to the…