A new study reveals that a small but powerful component of biochar, known as dissolved organic matter, plays a surprisingly large role in capturing toxic lead from contaminated water. The research, published in Biochar, uncovers how this dissolved material enhances the metal-binding power of biochar and offers molecular-level insights that could guide safer and more effective cleanup strategies.

Physicists at the Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter (MPSD) in Hamburg have discovered a striking new form of quantum behavior. In star-shaped Kagome crystals—named after a traditional Japanese bamboo-basket woven pattern—electrons that usually act like a noisy crowd suddenly synchronize, forming a collective “song” that evolves with the crystal’s shape. The study, published in Nature, reveals that geometry itself can tune quantum coherence, opening new possibilities to develop materials where form defines function.

Low-cost device quickly detects BDNF concentrations. Scientist at the University of São Paulo says the next step is to obtain a patent.

The path toward realizing practical quantum technologies begins with understanding the fundamental physics that govern quantum behavior — and how those phenomena can be harnessed in real materials. In the lab of Ania Jayich, Bruker Endowed Chair in Science and Engineering, Elings Chair in Quantum Science, and co-director of UC Santa Barbara’s National Science Foundation Quantum Foundry, that material of choice is laboratory-grown diamond.

Freiburg chemist Dr Tobias Schnitzer receives €1.5 million from the Vector Foundation to develop sustainable amidation reactions.

These reactions do not require toxic reagents and are highly energy-efficient. Schnitzer also relies on Artificial Intelligence in his research.

Amidations play a major role in the chemical industry. The new process could make an important contribution to more environmentally friendly production.