Physical properties play a crucial role in the performance of pharmaceutical and functional materials. Their stability and solubility, among other factors, depend heavily on the solid-state form and environmental conditions. Recognizing the risks associated with physical instability, especially in life-saving medicines, the pharmaceutical industry has invested significantly in solid form screening platforms. However, quantitatively measuring
Chemistry
The ubiquity of synthetic polymers in our everyday lives cannot be overstated. These materials, such as nylon and polyester, are found in clothing, cookware, and adhesives. At a molecular level, the chains that form these polymers are made up of monomers, which are the building blocks responsible for their unique functionality. Copolymers, which consist of
Fungal infections pose a growing public health crisis, and finding effective treatments has become increasingly urgent. In a groundbreaking study published in the journal Nature, researchers from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the University of Wisconsin-Madison have developed a new antifungal molecule that shows promise in combating fungal infections. By modifying the structure of
Natural gas, comprised of methane and ethane, is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. These gases are continuously released from natural gas wells into the atmosphere and are more potent greenhouse gases than carbon dioxide (CO2). Additionally, storing these gases is more challenging compared to their corresponding alcohols, such as methanol and ethanol. Unfortunately,
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
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