Berkeley Lab scientists have developed a new electrocatalyst that can directly convert carbon dioxide into multicarbon fuels and alcohols using record-low inputs of energy. The work is the latest in a round of studies coming out of Berkeley Lab tackling the challenge of a creating a clean chemical manufacturing system that can put carbon dioxide to good use.
Solar-to-Fuel System Recycles CO2 to Make Ethanol and Ethylene
In a big step toward sun-powered fuel production, scientists at Berkeley Lab have used artificial photosynthesis to convert carbon dioxide into hydrocarbons at efficiencies greater than plants. The achievement marks a significant advance in the effort to move toward sustainable sources of fuel.
New Study on Graphene-Wrapped Nanocrystals Makes Inroads Toward Next-Gen Fuel Cells
A new Berkeley Lab-led study provides insight into how an ultrathin coating can enhance the performance of graphene-wrapped nanocrystals for hydrogen storage applications.
Bringing Atomic Mapping to the Mainstream
Mapping the internal atomic structure of nanoparticles just got easier thanks to a new computer algorithm and graphical user interface designed by scientists at Berkeley Lab and UCLA.
Scientists Fine-Tune System to Create ‘Syngas’ from CO2
Scientists at Berkeley Lab and the University of Toronto have developed a new recipe for creating synthesis gas mixtures, or syngas, that involves adding a pinch of copper atoms sprinkled atop a gold surface.
X-ray Footprinting Solves Mystery of Metal-Breathing Protein
Berkeley Lab scientists have discovered the details of an unconventional coupling between a bacterial protein and a mineral that allows the bacterium to breathe when oxygen is not available.
Scientists Bring Visual ‘Magic’ to Light
Scientists from Magic Leap Inc. and Berkeley Lab have developed new, versatile ways to manipulate light with two types of silicon-based ultrathin optical components.
Scientists Developing Innovative Techniques for High-Resolution Analysis of Hybrid Materials
Berkeley Lab researchers have developed a new method of analyzing the molecular-scale structure of organo-lead halide perovskites, a promising class of materials that could energize the solar cell industry. They combined advanced X-ray spectroscopy measurements with calculations based on fundamental, “first principles” theory to obtain an atomic-scale view of the material.
A Semiconductor That Can Beat the Heat
A newly discovered collective rattling effect in a type of crystalline semiconductor blocks most heat transfer while preserving high electrical conductivity – a rare pairing that scientists say could reduce heat buildup in electronics devices and turbine engines, among other possible applications.
Lights! Action! Photo-Activated Catalyst Grabs CO2 to Make Ingredients for Fuel
Scientists at Berkeley Lab have developed a “spongy,” light-activated material that converts carbon dioxide into carbon monoxide, which can be further turned into liquid fuels and other useful products. This is done without generating unwanted chemical reactions and byproducts, a significant step forward in developing technology that could help mitigate levels of a potent greenhouse gas while generating solar-powered fuel.
