A touch of gold -- or another noble metal -- can change the structure of a crystal and its intrinsic properties, physicists at the University of Warwick have demonstrated in a display of modern-day alchemy. Scientists at the University of Warwick have found a way to induce electric effects in crystals that they were not previously capable of, such as converting movement or heat … [Read more...] about A touch of gold sends crystals electric with excitement
Climate change impact on green energy production
As the climate of the planet is changing, as evidenced by record-setting hot summers and extreme weather events, many researchers are looking to more renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind farms. In a paper for the Journal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy, by AIP Publishing, researchers investigate whether the power generated by solar and wind farms would differ … [Read more...] about Climate change impact on green energy production
New findings could help scientists tame damaging heat bursts in fusion reactors
Physicists have discovered a new trigger for edge localized modes (ELMs) -- instabilities that can halt fusion reactions and damage the tokamaks that house such reactions. … [Read more...] about New findings could help scientists tame damaging heat bursts in fusion reactors
Transparent solar panels for windows hit record 8 percent efficiency
In a step closer to skyscrapers that serve as power sources, a team led by University of Michigan researchers has set a new efficiency record for color-neutral, transparent solar cells. The team achieved 8.1% efficiency and 43.3% transparency with an organic, or carbon-based, design rather than conventional silicon. While the cells have a slight green tint, they are much more … [Read more...] about Transparent solar panels for windows hit record 8 percent efficiency
Widespread electric vehicle adoption would save billions of dollars, thousands of lives
Northwestern University researchers have combined climate modeling with public health data to evaluate the impact of electric vehicles (EVs) on U.S. lives and the economy. A new study found that if EVs replaced 25% of combustion-engine cars currently on the road, the United States would save approximately $17 billion annually by avoiding damages from climate change and air … [Read more...] about Widespread electric vehicle adoption would save billions of dollars, thousands of lives