All articles tagged with #chemical engineering
MIT researchers developed a machine learning model called FastSolv that accurately predicts how well molecules dissolve in organic solvents, aiding drug development and potentially reducing environmental hazards. The model outperforms previous models and is freely available, with industry adoption already underway.
MIT chemical engineers have developed a new polymer membrane process that separates crude oil components more efficiently and with 90% less carbon pollution, potentially revolutionizing oil processing and reducing environmental impact.
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder, led by Ankur Gupta, have developed a model to predict ion movement in complex nanopore networks, potentially revolutionizing energy storage technology. This breakthrough could lead to faster-charging supercapacitors with extended lifespans, benefiting applications from vehicles to power grids and wearable devices. The model challenges traditional principles and significantly accelerates computational efficiency, enabling the simulation of thousands of interconnected pores within minutes.
MIT chemical engineers have developed an efficient method to convert carbon dioxide into carbon monoxide using electricity and a DNA-tethered catalyst, which can then be used to produce useful compounds like ethanol and other fuels. This process, if scaled up for industrial use, could help reduce greenhouse gas emissions from power plants and other sources. The technology, developed by MIT's Ariel Furst and her team, has the potential for commercial use through a company called Helix Carbon, and could contribute to the decarbonization of various industries.
Chemical engineers in California have developed a fire-safe liquid fuel that only ignites with the application of electric current. The fuel, based on an ionic liquid, does not react to flames and eliminates the risk of accidental fires during storage or transport. By controlling the vapor, the researchers were able to control whether the fuel burns. The fuel could be used in various types of vehicles and has potential applications in engine metering and safety systems. Further research is needed to determine its efficiency and compatibility with conventional fuels.
Chemical engineers at UC Riverside have developed a fire-safe fuel that only ignites with the application of electric current. The fuel, based on an ionic liquid, does not react to flames and eliminates the risk of accidental fires during storage or transport. By controlling the vapor, the researchers were able to control whether the fuel burns. The fuel could potentially be used in any type of vehicle, but further testing and research are needed before commercialization. While the cost may be higher than conventional fuels, the safety benefits make it an attractive option.
Researchers have discovered a protein that binds to lighter rare-earth elements more strongly than to heavier ones, despite their chemical similarities. This discovery could lead to the development of bioseparation strategies for isolating individual rare-earth elements, which are essential for emerging technologies. Some specialized microorganisms require rare-earth elements for growth and have evolved biological machinery to process them.
Scientists at MIT, University of Texas, RIKEN center for Advanced Photonics, and the University of Oxford have discovered a way to improve the photostability of emitters in hexagonal boron nitride materials, which are crucial building materials for optical quantum technologies. The team found that photobleaching of hexagonal boron nitride vacancy emitters can facilitate photostability suited for quantum applications. They also identified a key to improve the photostability of emitters in hexagonal boron nitride materials that effectively shielded oxygen from the environment to optimize carbon substitution in the hexagonal boron nitride.