Measuring an Atom
Do you need a well-equipped lab to measure the size of an atom (German, machine translation)? According to [stoppi], no. You need sunflower oil, some bear moss spores, and a …read more Continue reading Measuring an Atom
Tag Archives: Chemistry
42 “mystery chemicals” from unknown sources discovered in people
A study from scientists at UC San Francisco is demonstrating a new screening method developed to better identify human-made chemicals in people. The proof-of-concept research discovered more than 100 chemicals, including 55 that have never been reporte… Continue reading 42 “mystery chemicals” from unknown sources discovered in people
Battery of the Future, Now Buildable Yourself
In theory, batteries and capacitors are fairly simple. One stores energy chemically and the other stores energy in an electric field. In practice though, building an energy storage device that …read more Continue reading Battery of the Future, Now Buildable Yourself
New microcapsule method boosts CBD absorption in the brain by 300%
A team of Australian scientists has demonstrated a novel microencapsulation method designed to improve the absorption and bioavailability of cannabidiol (CBD). Animal tests suggest the new method increases peak concentrations of CBD in the brain by 300… Continue reading New microcapsule method boosts CBD absorption in the brain by 300%
Copper cube reactor converts carbon monoxide into acetic acid
Engineers at Rice University have developed a new reactor that can convert carbon monoxide (CO) into acetic acid. Using tiny copper cubes as a catalyst, the device is relatively simple and can operate for long periods at a time, allowing the unwanted w… Continue reading Copper cube reactor converts carbon monoxide into acetic acid
Growing Opals In The Lab
Opals are unique amongst gemstones, being formed from tiny silica nanospheres arranged in precise structures that give them their characteristic shifting color when seen from different angles. [The Thought Emporium] loves a challenge, so set about growing some himself.
It’s not the hardest gemstone synthesis ever, but it’s no cakewalk …read more
New method quickly converts natural gas into solid form for storage
Engineers at the National University of Singapore (NUS) have developed a new way to convert natural gas into a solid form, allowing it to be stored and transported more safely and easily. The process can be done in just 15 minutes using a low-toxicity … Continue reading New method quickly converts natural gas into solid form for storage
Self-adjusting insulin promises safer blood sugar control for diabetics
An incredible proof-of-concept study from a team of European scientists has demonstrated the development of a novel insulin molecule that can sense blood sugar levels and self-adjust its activity in response to a patient’s needs. The experimental molec… Continue reading Self-adjusting insulin promises safer blood sugar control for diabetics
Recovering Metal From Waste
Refining precious metals is not as simple as polishing rocks that have been dug out of the ground. Often, complex chemical processes are needed to process the materials properly or in high quantities, but these processes leave behind considerable waste. Often, there are valuable metals left over in these wastes, …read more
Lithium: What Is It and Do We Have Enough?
Lithium (from Greek lithos or stone) is a silvery-white alkali metal that is the lightest solid element. Just one atomic step up from Helium, this magic metal seems to be in everything these days. In addition to forming the backbone of many kinds of batteries, it also is used in …read more