Ultra-efficient removal of carbon monoxide using gold nanoparticles on a molecular support
New method and mechanism for state-of-the-art gas purification Summary: Researchers have developed a way to mount gold nanoparticles on a molecular support known as a polyoxometalate (POM). They successfully applied this to realize nearly 100% conversion of carbon monoxide (CO) over a wide temperature range, demonstrating stable performance over long periods of time. They showed […]
Low-pressure ammonia production could cut fertiliser energy cost
Lanthanum–cobalt catalyst that breaks nitrogen triple bond under mild conditions could revolutionise small-scale ammonia synthesis Source: © Macmillan Publishers Ltd Structure of the lanthanum–cobalt–silicon catalyst Rather than relying on ammonia made by the energy-hungry Haber–Bosch process, local fertiliser synthesis could soon be possible with a catalyst that can break the nitrogen–nitrogen triple bond at ambient […]
Certain bacteria produce tiny gold nuggets by digesting toxic metals
Summary: High concentrations of heavy metals, like copper and gold, are toxic for most living creatures. This is not the case for the bacterium C. metallidurans, which has found a way to extract valuable trace elements from a compound of heavy metals without poisoning itself. One interesting side-effect: the formation of tiny gold nuggets. […]
Researchers achieve 'Olympic ring' molecule breakthrough just in time for Winter Games
In the FSU team’s new technique, an additional hexagonal ring of carbon atoms is fused to the zigzag edge of an existing carbon-rich molecule in two quick steps. Think plodding cross-country skier versus agile speed skater. Credit: Igor Alabugin As the world’s premier winter athletes were preparing to take to the slopes, rinks and tracks […]
Ozone still declining in the lower stratosphere
An unexplained decrease in stratospheric ozone – revealed by satellite measurements – appears to have been offsetting the ozone layer’s overall recovery over the past 20 years. The finding flies in the face of atmospheric models, which predict ozone levels in all parts of the atmosphere should be recovering in the years following the Montreal […]
Printed paper-based device could drug testing more efficient and affordable
Chemical engineer Todd Hoare and Rabia Mateen, PhD candidate, in their lab at McMaster University. Credit: Jin Lee McMaster University engineers have devised a way to make testing for new drugs more efficient and affordable, and reduce the time for helpful medications to reach the public. Chemical Engineering Associate Professor Todd Hoare and Rabia Mateen, […]
