Chemistry
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Chemistry
Power cells find uses for fossil fuel
A new fuel cell that runs on hydrocarbons such as natural gas, butane, and diesel instead of hydrogen could be an efficient, practical way to generate power without pollution.
By Corinna Wu -
Chemistry
Where the Gems Are
By using a novel tool to figure out an emerald’s oxygen-isotope ratio, gemologists can now determine which mine the precious stone came from and, possibly, gain insights into the formation and history of these coveted gems.
By Corinna Wu -
Chemistry
Money Allergies: Two-toned euro coins shed metallic allergen
The two-alloy composition of some euro coins makes them release large amounts of nickel, a common skin allergen.
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Chemistry
Rooting for new antimicrobial drugs
A compound from a tree found throughout tropical Africa could prove useful as a topical antifungal medication.
By Corinna Wu -
Chemistry
Wine Tasting: Instrument can sniff out vinegar in sealed wine
A new system could determine whether a sealed bottle of wine has turned to vinegar.
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Chemistry
Germ Fighter: Lens coating may keep contacts in eye longer
A new antibacterial coating may allow contact lenses to remain in a person's eyes for up to 3 months.
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Chemistry
Down to the bone
A new method for making bone cement could simplify hip and knee replacements and improve the surgeries' outcomes.
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Chemistry
Power plants: Algae churn out hydrogen
Green algae can produce hydrogen, a clean-burning fuel that could one day power pollution-free cars.
By Corinna Wu -
Chemistry
Don’t eat the pepper-flavored paint
A derivative of the spicy chemical in chili peppers could find its way into a variety of products, including veterinary sutures and fiber optic cables.
By Corinna Wu -
Chemistry
Glowing bacteria gobble gook in soil
A genetically engineered bacterium lights up as it breaks down organic contaminants in soil.
By Corinna Wu -
Chemistry
Volcanoes aren’t a big source of CFCs
Ozone-depleting chlorofluorocarbons in the atmosphere come mainly from human-made sources, not from volcanoes as some have suggested.
By Corinna Wu -
Chemistry
Stopping batteries from starting fires
A new flame-retardant substance could make rechargeable lithium-ion batteries practical for powering electric vehicles.
By Corinna Wu