UPDATE (2/6/2017): Meng Tao has recently been awarded the 2017 Fulbright Distinguished Chair in Alternative Energy Technology. The Fulbright Distinguished Chair awards are viewed as among the most prestigious appointments in the Fulbright Scholar Program, awarded to eminent scholars with significant publication and teaching records. Tao will be working at Chalmers University of Technology for the 2017/2018 academic year, working with Swedish colleagues on two projects: solar photovoltaic systems to charge electric vehicles and value-added recycling of wafer-silicon solar modules....
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Global energy demands are predicted to reach 46 terawatts by 2100. That number is a far reach from the 18 terawatts of energy currently generated around the world. According to one expert in the field, a major shift in the way we produce and consume energy is necessary in order to meet future demands. Meng Tao, ECS member and Arizona State University professor, discussed how society could move toward meeting those demands at the PRiME 2016 meeting, where he presented…
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The San Francisco Section is currently accepting nominations for the following award: Daniel Cubicciotti Student Award: established in 1994 to assist a deserving student in Northern California in pursuing a career in the physical sciences or engineering. Qualified candidates will be full or part-time graduate or advanced undergraduate student(s) in good standing at a university or college in Northern California. The award consists of an etched metal plaque and a $2,000 prize which is intended to assist with the educational…
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Just over ten years ago, the number of electric vehicles on the road could be counted in the hundreds. Now, more than 1.3 million EVs have been deployed across the globe. But even as EVs become a stronger force in the transportation sector, many buyers still cite one major deterrent in going electric: range anxiety. Range anxiety refers to the fear that during longer trips, the EV battery may run out of energy and leave drivers stranded without a charging…
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By: Arnab Hazari, University of Michigan For the past four decades, the electronics industry has been driven by what is called “Moore’s Law,” which is not a law but more an axiom or observation. Effectively, it suggests that the electronic devices double in speed and capability about every two years. And indeed, every year tech companies come up with new, faster, smarter and better gadgets. Specifically, Moore’s Law, as articulated by Intel cofounder Gordon Moore, is that “The number of…
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By using mild electric current, a team of researchers from Washington State University has demonstrated the ability to beat drug-resistant bacterial infections – a technology with the potential to treat chronic wound infections. Lead by ECS member Haluk Beyenal, the team combined an antibiotic with electrical current to kill the highly persistent Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 bacteria. That very same bacteria can seen in infections of the lung, cystic fibrosis, and even chronic wounds. “I didn’t believe it. Killing most of…
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The holiday season is approach and it’s time to start thinking about the perfect gift for the science-lover in your life. Check out our top 10 picks for 2016! Scientist Love Notes Etsy – $9.00 These tongue-in-cheek, handmade gifts feature notable scientists and phrases related to their area of study. Choose from eight carvings, ranging from Marie Curie (“You’re radiant”) to Nikola Tesla (“You’re electrifying”).     Molecube Vat 19 – $19.99 The molecube is a noteworthy challenge for any…
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Researchers are shedding new light on cell biology with the development of a graphene sensor to monitor changes in the mitochondria. The one-atom-thin layer of carbon sensor is giving researchers a new outlook into the process known as programmed cell death in mitochondria. The mitochondrion, which is found in most cells, has been known as the powerhouse of the cell due to its ability to metabolize and create energy for cells. However, the new researcher out of University of California,…
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By: Sudeep Pasricha, Colorado State University American mining production increased earlier this decade, as industry sought to reduce its reliance on other countries for key minerals such as coal for energy and rare-earth metals for use in consumer electronics. But mining is dangerous – working underground carries risks of explosions, fires, flooding and dangerous concentrations of poisonous gases. Mine accidents have killed tens of thousands of mine workers worldwide in just the past decade. Most of these accidents occurred in…
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In 2005, the number of electric vehicles on the road could be measured in the hundreds. Over the years, researchers have made technological leaps in the field of EVs. Now, we’ve exceeded a global threshold of one million EVs, and the demand continues to grow. However, the ultimate success and growth of the EV hinges on battery technology. With some scientists stating that convention Li-ion batteries are approaching their theoretical energy density limits, researchers have begun exploring new energy storage…
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