This pollen sponge can absorb oil contaminants, such as gasoline and motor oil, at a rate comparable to commercial oil absorbents
Inspired by the pufferfish, this hydrogel purifies water using nothing but sunlight
This method of purification under natural sunlight opens a new paradigm in clean water production using renewable solar energy.
Sponging up oil droplets from Arctic wastewater
A re-usable sponge can capture and recover crude oil droplets from cold water to generate clean water in a fragile ecosystem.
Climate change and the city
With increasing rates of urbanization and its detrimental effects on the environment, reducing the risk posed by “urban climate change” requires more research to prepare ourselves for an uncertain future.
DIY eco-friendly fertilizer
Miniature plasma reactors mimic how lightening makes renewable nitrogen fertilizer using just sunlight, water, and air.
Addressing ozone-depleting nitrous oxide pollution with metal complexes
Synthesis of a rare metal complex of nitrous oxide opens new vistas for the degradation of a potent greenhouse gas.
Conjugated polymer windows redirect light to solar cells
Luminescent solar concentrators based on a conjugated polymer redirect light from inside and out.
Effects of increased weather variability on weed management
Researchers explore how the predicted increase in variable rainfall and higher temperatures will impact management of common weeds for corn production.
What’s so special about rivers that run dry?
As an increasing global population moves into areas where non-perennial rivers are common, we need to understand how human water needs impact when, where, and how much these rivers flow.
Improving Li-ion battery performance using 3D printing
Increasing the mass of an electrode reduces power density due to the longer distance that ions and electrons must travel. Electrode designs need a rethink.