Zirconium nitride (ZrN) has recently emerged as a promising material for powering clean energy reactions. With its efficient performance and cost-effectiveness compared to alternatives like platinum, ZrN offers a viable solution for generating cleaner energy. Researchers have made significant progress in understanding the underlying mechanisms behind the impressive performance of ZrN, providing a framework that
Chemistry
When it comes to understanding the intricate workings of enzymes, particularly copper amine oxidases, a class of enzymes critical in the healing and detoxification processes within our bodies, researchers face numerous challenges. One such challenge is identifying the precise positions of hydrogen atoms within these enzymes, which is crucial for developing improved versions with enhanced
Rapid advancements in flexible electronic technology have given rise to a plethora of innovative devices, including foldable displays, wearables, e-skin, and medical devices. However, the development of these devices presents a new challenge – the need for flexible adhesives that can both recover their shape quickly and effectively connect various components. Conventional pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSAs)
Spent coffee grounds (SCG) are a significant waste product generated from coffee consumption worldwide. With approximately 6 million metric tons of waste produced annually, finding sustainable ways to manage this waste is crucial. Scientists and researchers are now exploring innovative methods to convert SCG into value-added products for a variety of applications. Associate Professor Liu
Neural interfaces play a crucial role in understanding brain disorders and developing effective treatments. However, maintaining the stability and biocompatibility of neural electrode interfaces over long periods remains a challenge. In a recent study published in ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, Prof. Lu Yi and his research group from the Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology
The Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory has conducted a comprehensive investigation into the behavior of hafnium oxide, also known as hafnia, due to its potential applications in revolutionary semiconductor technologies. Hafnia and similar materials possess ferroelectric properties, which means they have the ability to retain data even when power is disconnected. This characteristic
A new study conducted by the University of Birmingham has revealed alarming findings about the potential harm of aerosols. The research suggests that commonly encountered hazardous chemicals in aerosols, such as those released during cooking and cleaning, can be “protected” within 3D structures formed by surfactants. These structures allow the harmful chemicals to last longer
In a groundbreaking development, engineers at Rice University have created a composite, textile-based material that can effectively eliminate viruses on its outer surface while maintaining a cool and comfortable temperature on the reverse side. This innovation has the potential to transform the production and use of personal protective equipment (PPE), significantly reducing pollution and carbon
Separating molecules is a crucial process in the production of numerous essential products across various industries. Industries such as petroleum refining rely on molecular separation to extract gasoline, diesel, and lubricants from crude oil. Similarly, the pharmaceutical industry purifies active ingredients in medications through the separation of drug molecules from enzymes and other components. Unfortunately,
Nanoplastics (NPs) have emerged as a significant concern due to their potential adverse effects on human health and the environment. However, monitoring these particles in the environment has proven to be challenging. A research team at the Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Process Technology (QIBEBT), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), has developed a groundbreaking method
Polymers have become essential materials in the modern world, serving a wide range of applications. These synthetic long-chained molecules, meticulously developed by scientists, have revolutionized fields such as medicine, protein synthesis, and protective coatings. Researchers at the FAMU-FSU College of Engineering have recently made groundbreaking progress in the realm of polymers, creating two closely related
A team of chemical engineers at Zhejiang University in China has unveiled a groundbreaking technique to convert polyurethane foams into 3D printing resins. This remarkable discovery, detailed in an article published in Nature Chemistry, presents a potential solution to the significant challenges posed by the recycling of polyurethane foam. By employing a novel chemical upcycling