green technology
A new, environmentally-friendly paper that glows could lead to sustainable, roll-up electronics.
The global industrial sector accounts for more than half of the total energy used every year. Now scientists are inventing a new artificial photosynthetic system that could one day reduce industry's dependence on fossil fuel-derived energy by powering part of the sector with solar energy and bacteria.
Engineering researchers at the University of Arkansas have invented a novel electrical power converter system that simultaneously accepts power from a variety of energy sources and converts it for use in the electrical grid system.
Do green schools make for better learning environments? Are green schools healthier for children and teachers? Do green, healthy schools support higher student test scores? Researchers at Colorado State University plan to find out. Jennifer Cross, a professor of sociology, has received a four-year, $1 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to analyze the effects of green school buildings on student health and performance.
Scientists have demonstrated the potential for softwoods to process more easily into pulp and paper if engineered to incorporate a key feature of hardwoods. The finding, published in this week's Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, could improve the economics of the pulp, paper and biofuels industries and reduce those industries' environmental impact.
Refrigeration and air conditioning may become more efficient and environmentally friendly thanks to the patent-pending work of Louisiana State University (LSU) physicists. The team of researchers led by LSU Physics Professor Shane Stadler has discovered a breakthrough magnetocaloric material that may change the energy industry, including air conditioning and food refrigeration.
A team of Virginia Tech researchers discovered a way to create hydrogen fuel using a biological method that greatly reduces the time and money it takes to produce the zero-emissions fuel. This method uses abundantly available corn stover – the stalks, cobs, and husks – to produce the hydrogen.
New material opens the door to low-cost, environmentally friendly energy use.
Proposed regulations for laboratory cold storage manufacturers could be an issue if deadline extension is not granted.
