Biocatalysis has long been recognized as a promising field for the development of biotechnological processes that enable the recycling of plastics. However, the lack of knowledge about the molecular mechanisms underlying biocatalysis has hindered progress in this area. In a groundbreaking research project led by a team from the Universitat Jaume I, a new approach
Chemistry
Water electrolysis, a process that produces hydrogen from water, holds great promise as an environmentally friendly technology. It is free from carbon dioxide emissions, making it an attractive avenue for hydrogen production. However, the reliance on precious metal catalysts, such as iridium (Ir), has hindered its economic feasibility. This limitation has prompted researchers to explore
Cannabis has long been celebrated for its distinct aroma, captivating millions with its skunky and sometimes fruity scent. However, the exact molecules responsible for this smell have remained a mystery. In an effort to uncover the secrets behind cannabis’s odor, a team of chemists at terpene distributor Abstrax Tech embarked on an extensive study. Their
In the world of pharmaceutical drug development, chemists have long wished for an easier way to replace a carbon atom with a nitrogen atom in a molecule. This seemingly small change can have a profound impact on the way a drug molecule interacts with its target, potentially improving efficacy and reducing side effects. Now, two
The conventional techniques used in the production of alkylbenzene have long been associated with toxic halogen byproducts. However, researchers have recently developed a groundbreaking method that not only offers a more efficient and cost-effective manufacturing process but also minimizes the environmental impact. In a paper published in ACS Catalysis, the researchers outline their findings and
In a groundbreaking study, a team of scientists led by Post-Doctoral Associate Marieh Al-Handawi and Professor of Chemistry Pance Naumov from NYU Abu Dhabi’s Smart Materials Lab and Center for Smart Engineering Materials (CSEM) has uncovered the unique mechanism employed by a desert plant to extract moisture from the unforgiving desert air. By excreting salts
Solar energy is a rapidly growing field that has the potential to revolutionize the way we generate electricity. While traditional silicon solar cells have dominated the market for decades, next-generation solar materials, such as perovskite solar cells, are gaining attention for their cheaper cost and greater sustainability. However, challenges remain in making these cells durable
A team of chemists from Oxford University and IBM Research Europe-Zurich has accomplished a significant milestone in the field of carbon allotropes. They have successfully synthesized a doubly anti-aromatic C16 carbon allotrope and published their findings in the esteemed journal Nature. This breakthrough has opened up new possibilities for exploring experimental theories in chemistry and
Scientists from the University of Houston are making significant strides towards achieving the goal of net-zero carbon emissions through their research into algae. The Microbial Products Lab, based at the University’s Cullen College of Engineering’s Division of Technology, has conducted extensive studies on the potential of microalgae to sequester carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere
In the realm of coatings technology, medical imaging, and cell biology, the dispersions of polymer particles in a liquid phase, referred to as latexes, possess significant importance. A team of researchers from France has recently made notable progress in this field by developing a method to produce stable polystyrene dispersions with particle sizes that are
Every year, over 100,000 tons of diapers are discarded in Germany alone, resulting in the wastage of valuable resources. The majority of these diapers contain special polymers known as superabsorbers, which offer excellent absorption qualities. However, the current recycling process for these superabsorbers is complex, expensive, and requires the usage of strong acids. In a
Scientists at the Department of Energy’s SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory have made significant advancements in the production of nitroxide, a molecule that holds great potential in the biomedical field. While nitric oxide (NO) has already garnered attention for its physiological effects, its lesser-known counterpart, nitroxide (HNO), has largely remained unexplored. This groundbreaking study, recently published