Dinitrogen, or N2, constitutes approximately 80% of the Earth’s atmosphere, yet leveraging this abundant resource in chemical synthesis has been a formidable challenge for chemists. The inherent stability of the dinitrogen molecule, characterized by its strong triple bond, renders it particularly unreactive. This poses significant difficulties when attempting to incorporate nitrogen into complex molecules, such
Chemistry
The Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) has marked a significant advancement in the field of neutron imaging with the introduction of the Versatile Neutron Imaging Instrument, known as VENUS. Officially approved by the Department of Energy’s Office of Science, VENUS is poised to redefine the landscape of research across various scientific disciplines. As the brainchild
Recent research from a collaborative team at the Fritz Haber Institute, Sorbonne University, and Uppsala University sheds light on the intricate behavior of ions in liquid solutions. Their groundbreaking work, showcased in the journal Nature Communications, centers on the concept of solvation shells—an essential yet often elusive component of solutions. When a solute dissolves, solvent
In the ever-evolving discourse on environmental sustainability, the presence of pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) in waterways has emerged as a significant concern. These chemicals infiltrate aquatic environments through everyday activities—ranging from the disposal of unused medications to the washing off of cosmetics—and pose a threat not only to aquatic organisms but also to
The cosmetics and skincare industry is known for its use of eclectic and sometimes peculiar ingredients. Among them, snail mucin, or snail slime, has gained attention for its hydrating and antioxidant qualities. However, research is now revealing an even more unconventional source for skincare innovations: bacteria found in the gastrointestinal tracts of fish. As surprising
Photocatalysis, inspired by the natural process of photosynthesis, has emerged as a pivotal technology for facilitating chemical reactions that ordinarily require high energy inputs or extreme conditions. This process relies on the interaction of light with catalysts to initiate transformations, making it an attractive method for sustainable chemical synthesis. However, the effectiveness of photocatalysis hinges
Hydrogen has long been touted as a potential game-changer in the quest for sustainable energy. Its clean combustion produces only water vapor, making it an appealing alternative to fossil fuels. However, the widespread adoption of hydrogen as a viable fuel source has been hindered primarily by its storage challenges. Unlike gasoline, hydrogen occupies a significantly
In the rapidly evolving field of biotechnology, the ability to monitor biomolecules within living cells is critical for the development of advanced medical therapies, including lifesaving drug treatments. Traditional methodologies have faced challenges, primarily due to the prevalent interference of water in cellular environments when using infrared (IR) light. Scientists at the National Institute of
As we grapple with the escalating consequences of climate change, the search for viable solutions to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions becomes increasingly critical. Given that CO2 is a byproduct of numerous human activities, including energy production, transportation, and industrial processes, devising effective methods to manage and utilize this greenhouse gas is essential. One of
The pursuit of sustainable energy solutions has intensified in recent years, particularly in the context of hydrogen production through water electrolysis. Among the numerous components that contribute to the efficiency of this process, the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) stands out as a critical challenge due to its inherently slow kinetics. Recent research led by a
In recent years, the need for sustainable methods to synthesize important chemical precursors has gained momentum. A collaborative effort from researchers at Kyushu University has unearthed promising techniques that utilize zeolite materials, particularly Na-ZSM-5, in conjunction with microwave technology for the conversion of biomass into olefins. This discovery offers a glimpse into the future of
The extraction and purification of rare-earth metals, particularly the lanthanides, have long posed a substantial challenge for scientists and industries alike. These critical metals are integral to numerous applications, including clean energy technologies, medical imaging, and defense systems. In a groundbreaking study by researchers at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) in collaboration with Vanderbilt
The quest for sustainable energy solutions has never been more critical. As the world grapples with climate change and the pressing need for energy security, hydrogen energy emerges as a beacon of hope. Known for its green credentials and high calorific value, hydrogen has the potential to revolutionize the energy landscape. A significant breakthrough in
Water safety is a pressing issue, particularly concerning the contamination of drinking sources with hazardous heavy metals. Elements like lead and cadmium can be toxic to both humans and aquatic life even at low concentrations. The effects of heavy metal exposure can be devastating, leading to serious health issues including neurological disorders, kidney damage, and
In an era marked by escalating climate crises and a palpable rise in global temperatures, the focus on mitigating carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions has become vital. Among the various contributors to these emissions, cement production stands out as a significant source, prompting researchers and environmentalists to seek practical alternatives. The manifestations of climate change are
Cryopreservation is an essential technique in modern medicine, underpinning the storage and transportation of various biological materials, including vaccines, blood products, and fertility treatments. Essentially, the process involves freezing these materials at extremely low temperatures to preserve their cellular structure and efficacy. However, the challenge has long persisted that freezing and thawing can lead to