Phys.org
Hollow-sphere catalyst enables greener production of 99% pure propane at room temperature
Researchers have developed a hollow-sphere catalyst capable of producing propane at 99% purity under room-temperature conditions, potentially transforming how the chemical industry meets surging propylene demand. Propylene is a critical feedstock for plastics, fuels, and medical equipment — industries that currently rely on energy-intensive, high-temperature production methods. The breakthrough could significantly cut both costs and carbon emissions across one of petrochemicals' most essential supply chains.
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Scientists develop dirt-powered fuel cell that could replace batteries
Researchers have engineered a soil-powered fuel cell that harnesses naturally occurring microbes to generate electricity, eliminating the need for batteries or solar panels entirely. The device reliably powers underground sensors in both wet and dry conditions, outperforming comparable technologies in longevity. For agriculture and environmental monitoring, this could mean a new generation of self-sustaining sensors that require virtually no maintenance.
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This protein-engineering breakthrough generates over 10M data points and turbocharges AI in just three days
Researchers have developed a protein-engineering method capable of generating over 10 million data points in just three days, dramatically accelerating the pace at which AI models can be trained on biological data. The breakthrough addresses one of the field's core challenges: the astronomical number of possible amino acid combinations — a 50-amino-acid protein alone yields more potential variants than grains of sand in the observable universe. By flooding AI systems with high-quality experimental data at unprecedented speed, the technique could fast-track the development of optimized proteins for medicine, materials, and beyond.
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Scientists just found a way to control electrons without magnets
Researchers have discovered that chiral phonons — microscopic atomic vibrations — can manipulate electrons' orbital motion without the need for magnets or electrical current. The finding validates a long-theorized but never-demonstrated mechanism, effectively launching the field of orbitronics as a practical pursuit. If harnessed at scale, the technology could enable dramatically more efficient computing hardware that sidesteps the energy costs of conventional electronics.
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Scientists say this type of olive oil could boost brain power
Extra virgin olive oil may do more than protect your heart — new research suggests it could sharpen your mind. A two-year study found that participants who consumed it showed improved cognitive performance and greater gut microbiome diversity compared to those using refined olive oil, with researchers identifying specific bacteria driving the effect. The findings point to a straightforward dietary swap that could meaningfully support brain health over time.
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