Iron-nitrogen-carbon catalysts have the potential to replace the more expensive platinum catalysts currently used in fuel cells. This is shown by a study conducted by researchers from the Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin (HZB), Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) and universities in Tartu and Tallinn, Estonia. At BESSY II, the team observed the formation of complex microstructures within various samples. They then analysed which structural parameters were particularly important for fostering the preferred electrochemical reactions. The raw material for such catalysts is well decomposed peat.

Researchers from the Helmholtz Zentrum Berlin (HZB) and the Fritz Haber Institute of the Max Planck Society (FHI) have uncovered how carbonate molecules affect the conversion of CO₂ into valuable fuels on gold electrocatalysts. Their findings reveal key molecular mechanisms in CO₂ electrocatalysis and hydrogen evolution, pointing to new strategies for improving energy efficiency and reaction selectivity.

Researchers have discovered that ferroelectric fluids can harness an overlooked transverse electrostatic force (TEF) to rise over 80 mm, without magnets or high voltages. By exploiting the fluid’s spontaneous polarization and exceptionally high dielectric constant, they achieved a strong TEF, previously thought unattainable in conventional electrostatics. This breakthrough enables creation of a lightweight, magnet-free motor, opening possibilities for compact, energy-efficient actuators and suggesting a transformative approach to converting electrical energy into mechanical motion at low voltages.

Perovskites are promising materials for the oxidative coupling of methane (OCM). Recently, a team of researchers from Nagoya Institute of Technology, Japan, has designed Ca-modified BaTiO₃ as a promising catalyst for this reaction. Ca forms unique reduced structural motifs on the surface of BaTiO₃, facilitating the generation of reactive oxygen species and promoting methane activation. This technology can guide the development of new catalysts for OCM and other organic reactions.

Researchers have developed a novel Nickel-Cobalt bimetallic nanocomposite material. Its built-in dual electric field significantly enhances electromagnetic energy dissipation, achieving ultra-wideband absorption.

A highly efficient, wearable self-charging power system is reported, which consists of a triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) with fabric coated by MXene paste as conductive layer and micro-supercapacitors (MSCs) with graphene films as electrode.

Researchers at ICFO have generated and measured a 19.2-attosecond soft X-ray pulse, the shortest flash of light ever reported. The breakthrough establishes a new global benchmark in ultrafast science and allows scientists to observe in detail how electrons move within atoms, molecules, and materials.