chemical engineering

By Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard March 20, 2024This illustration highlights how two hydrogels (shown in blue) can be bonded in different ways by thin chitosan films (shown in orange). The bonds that form are extraordinarily strong and can resist high tensions. Credit: Peter Allen, Ryan Allen, and James C. Weaver.A novel technique for the quick and efficient bonding of hydrogels offers the potential to significantly propel forward the development of new biomaterials, addressing a wide…

The polyamide is tough and flexible allowing it to be twisted and plied without breaking. Credit: Lorenz Manker/EPFLIn today’s fast-paced industrial society, the search for eco-friendly materials is more pressing than ever. Plastics, which are a common part of everyday life, present major environmental issues, primarily due to their fossil fuel origins and problematic disposal.Now, a study led by Jeremy Luterbacher’s team at EPFL unveils a pioneering approach to producing high-performance plastics from renewable…

Researchers have engineered a high-performance binder for micro-silicon oxide (SiO)-based electrodes within lithium-ion batteries with poly(vinylphosphonic acid) (PVPA), which enhances electrochemical performance and durability compared to conventional options. Credit: Noriyoshi Matsumi from JAISTResearchers have created a sophisticated binder for silicon oxide electrodes in lithium-ion batteries, improving their electrochemical efficiency and lifespan.Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in various applications but need…

Scientists have developed a new photocatalytic method for producing hydrogen peroxide using water and air, employing a novel covalent organic framework. This method is energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, contrasting sharply with the traditional, more hazardous anthraquinone process.Scientists at the National University of Singapore (NUS) have created a microporous covalent organic framework with dense donor–acceptor lattices and engineered linkages for the efficient and clean production of hydrogen peroxide…

Researchers at POSTECH have successfully created the complex “plumber’s nightmare” structure in block copolymers, a groundbreaking achievement that paves the way for new applications in nano-technology and material science. This discovery demonstrates the potential for crafting diverse polymer nanostructures with tailored properties. (Artist’s concept). Credit: SciTechDailyPlumber’s nightmare structure presents itself as an assemblage where all exits seem to converge inward—a plumber’s nightmare but an anticipated…

MIT chemists have developed a computational model that can rapidly predict the structure of the transition state of a reaction (left structure), if it is given the structure of a reactant (middle) and product (right). Credit: David W. KastnerUtilizing generative artificial intelligence, chemists from MIT developed a model that can predict the structures formed when a chemical reaction reaches its point of no returnDuring a chemical reaction, molecules gain energy until they reach what’s known as the transition state — a…

By Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences February 16, 2024New research inspired by the intricate structure of butterfly wings has led to a method for fine-tuning catalytic reactions, enhancing selectivity and efficiency in chemical production. This breakthrough underscores the potential for bioinspired designs to drive industrial innovation. Credit: SciTechDaily.comResearchers expand ways to improve the selectivity of catalytic reactions.Researchers from the Harvard John A. Paulson School of…

Recent research on TATB-based polymer-bonded explosives (PBXs) has focused on understanding and controlling their irreversible thermal expansion, which affects shape stability and safety. Innovations in structural design and the application of negative thermal expansion materials are seen as promising approaches to mitigate these issues. Credit: Cong-mei Lin, et alPolymer-bonded explosives (PBXs) with 1,3,5-triamino-2,4,6-trinitrobenzene (TATB) undergo irreversible thermal expansion under varying temperatures, resulting…

Researchers at the University of Adelaide have innovated a method to convert polyethylene waste into valuable chemicals using light-driven photocatalysis and solar energy, paving the way for sustainable waste management and contributing to a circular economy.An international team of scientists undertaking fundamental research has discovered a method to use polyethylene waste (PE) as a raw material. They have successfully transformed it into valuable chemicals through a process called light-driven photocatalysis.The…

A new technique using liquid metals as catalysts promises to revolutionize the chemical industry by enabling low-temperature, energy-efficient chemical reactions, potentially reducing greenhouse gas emissions and energy use. Above is liquid gallium in a Petri dish. Credit: University of Sydney/Philip RitchieThe chemical industry is presented with an “unparalleled possibility” to alter the future of chemical processes.Liquid metals could be the long-awaited solution to “greening” the chemical industry, according to…