Batteries have always been studied primarily through their electrical properties such as voltage and current. However, recent research conducted at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign suggests that a new approach, which involves observing how heat flows in conjunction with electricity, can provide valuable insights into battery chemistry. In a study reported in the journal Physical
Chemistry
Intercalation is a crucial physical property that plays a significant role in the functionality of various cutting-edge technologies, ranging from lithium-ion batteries to next-generation superconductors. This process involves the reversible insertion of guest atoms or molecules into host materials, such as 2D-layered structures, to enhance the performance of devices. Despite the multitude of synthetic methods
Helicases play a crucial role in unwinding DNA and RNA, making them essential enzymes for cellular functions such as replication and transcription. However, when helicases malfunction, they can contribute to the growth of certain cancers, as well as facilitate viral replication and bacterial proliferation. The Challenge of Targeting Helicases With Drugs Despite their importance, helicases
A recent study conducted by a team of chemists led by Prof. Albert Heck has revolutionized the way molecules are analyzed and understood. Through significant improvements in current measuring equipment, the team was able to trap and observe individual molecules for an unprecedented period of up to 25 seconds. This extended observation time has enabled
Temperature plays a crucial role in chemical reactions, affecting both thermodynamics and kinetics. In a recent study by researchers at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, a groundbreaking technique was developed to measure the temperature distribution inside a single industrial zeolite-catalyst particle. This three-dimensional spatiotemporal-resolved technique allows for precise measurement of temperature near active sites,
Catalysis research has long been focused on the identification and classification of active sites on catalyst surfaces. However, recent collaborative research by Dr. Zhenhua Zeng and Professor Jeffrey Greeley of the Davidson School of Chemical Engineering has shed light on the oversimplification of this process. Their study, published in Nature, challenges the traditional method of
In the realm of solar energy, the quest for high efficiency has always been a driving force behind innovation. In a recent development, researchers at Uppsala University and the First Solar European Technology Center AB in Sweden achieved a remarkable efficiency of 23.64% in chalcopyrite-based solar cells. This breakthrough, reported in Nature Energy, represents a
The process of photosynthesis is crucial for the existence of life on earth, as it serves as the primary mechanism through which plants, algae, and certain bacteria convert light energy into chemical energy. By unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying photosynthesis, scientists can unlock new possibilities in the fields of biotechnology and renewable energy. Photosystem II
The quest for more sustainable methods of producing carbon-based chemicals has been at the forefront of energy research in recent years. One particular focus has been on the electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) to create valuable chemicals. While progress has been made in this area, there are still significant challenges to overcome in terms
The mystery of homochirality, the single-handedness seen in biological molecules such as amino acids and DNA, has long puzzled scientists studying the origins of life on Earth. The fundamental question of why these molecules appear in just one chiral form has led researchers to explore various theories and mechanisms. The Role of Kinetic Resolution Recent
The denim industry, worth billions of dollars, has long been criticized for its excessive pollution levels. The production of blue jeans in various shapes and sizes has led to significant environmental damage. Traditional indigo dye, which is commonly used in the industry, requires toxic chemicals, large amounts of water, and is associated with substantial carbon
In recent years, a groundbreaking development has emerged in the field of forensic science. Scientists at the Shanghai Normal University in China and the University of Bath in the UK have collaborated to create a water-soluble, non-toxic fluorescent spray that can reveal latent fingerprints in a matter of seconds. This innovative technology has the potential
In a groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University, a new micro total analysis system has been developed to quantify target chemicals in a microfluidic chip without the need for pumps, tubes, or expensive detectors. This innovative system relies on the production of a gas by a target compound, which in turn drives
The ability to record transient events within living cells has long been a goal for scientists seeking to understand the complexities of cellular physiology. Recently, a groundbreaking technology developed by researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Medical Research in Heidelberg has provided a novel approach to capturing these elusive cellular activities. By utilizing chemical
Almost three decades ago, a groundbreaking discovery was made by scientists in the field of organic chemistry. A unique class of anticancer molecules was found in a group of marine invertebrates known as bryozoans. These molecules, with their intricate structures made up of oxidized rings and nitrogen atoms, have posed a challenge to researchers globally,