The science of power storage has a new variety of options and new materials to investigate thanks to some recent developments in the chemistry of materials used in flow batteries. Until now, flow batteries have largely relied on metallic compounds for the active chemicals they use. But new materials have been found that are cheaper and more effective than the chemicals which have been most used in flow batteries until now.
The research undertaken by scientists at Harvard University has identified a range of organic compounds known as quinones, which are have the potential to be especially useful for flow batteries. Initial research indicates they are inexpensive and efficient materials well suited for use in power storage. A recently published paper in the journal Nature discusses the use of 9,10-anthraquinone-2,7-disulphonic acid (AQDS), a compound found in rhubarb, in a flow battery.
Large-scale energy storage is an area where flow batteries can excel, because the equipment needed to build a large energy storage system is basic, industrial gear, rather than highly specialized equipment. To increase storage capacity, a flow battery just needs a couple of larger storage tanks.
The AQDS materials are naturally abundant and very stable. They are potentially safer than metal-based flow batteries because the materials are
Michal Pospiech Designed This Personal Air Filter Robot
This student-designed drone acts as a personal air filter. Created by Michal Pospiech, the UrbanCONE is a pinecone-shaped drone that purifies the air around an individual.
Currently in the second stage of submission at the 2014 Electrolux design competition, the UrbanCONE is envisioned as a solution for a future where people have not made necessary radical changes and the air quality is so poor that we are required to have a personal air filter. The invention is designed to provide a micro climate that can be customized to meet the individual
The Climate of the Future has been analyzed in 13 Countries
Over the past two years, around two-thirds of the local County Administrations in Sweden have entrusted SMHI to construct plausible scenarios of future climate development in the relevant counties. Based on observations and analysis from the SMHI as well as climate scenarios from international climate research, the assignments have been prepared in close dialogue with the County Administrations in order to satisfy individual regional needs and requirements.
The purpose of the climate analysis is to provide a broader picture of today
influential metaphors for understanding the environment serve as a bridge between traditional conservatism and outright Eco fascism.
We have so far introduced the ideas of thinkers we find useful, such as Murray Bookchin
