Breakthrough Method to Combat Plastic Pollution Revealed by South Korean Scientists

KRKorea|

In a significant development for environmental science, researchers in South Korea have unveiled a groundbreaking method for breaking down polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic, the most common form of plastic used in items like bottles, clothing, and more. The new biocatalyst, named KUBU-M12, has set a record for its efficacy in decomposing plastic, offering a solution to one of the planet's pressing ecological challenges.

Led by Professor Kim Kyung-jin of Kyungpook National University, the research team demonstrated that KUBU-M12 can efficiently decompose contaminated plastics that are typically considered unrecyclable. This advancement is crucial as current recycling rates for plastics remain alarmingly low; in the United States, approximately 5% of plastic waste is recycled.

The implications of this discovery are profound, potentially enabling the recycling of plastics that have previously been deemed problematic and leading to improved environmental outcomes. As society grapples with the increasing volumes of plastic waste, innovations like KUBU-M12 could pave the way for more effective recycling strategies, helping to mitigate the extensive harm caused by plastic pollution in ecosystems worldwide.

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Breakthrough in Battery Technology Promises Improved Energy Retention and Durability

Researchers from Pohang University of Science and Technology in South Korea announced a significant advancement in lithium-ion battery technology that could enhance energy retention and durability. According to a lab summary by Tech Xplore, this breakthrough involves the use of lithium-rich layered oxide as a cathode material, which has been shown to increase energy density by up to 20% compared to traditional nickel-based batteries. The team focused on addressing the common issues of capacity fading and voltage decay that have hindered the commercial viability of these batteries. By modifying the electrolyte composition, they effectively reduced oxygen release at the cathode interface, which substantially improves battery performance. Their results indicate an 84.3% energy retention rate after 700 charge-discharge cycles, compared to just 37.1% for traditional versions after 300 cycles. As innovations continue in battery technology, experts believe these findings could pave the way for cleaner, more efficient energy solutions for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, according to Professor Jihyun Hong.
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Scientists Make Breakthrough in Lithium-Ion Battery Technology

Researchers at South Korea's Pohang University of Science and Technology have made a significant advancement in lithium-ion battery technology, potentially enhancing energy retention and durability. According to a report by Tech Xplore, the team focused on a lithium-rich layered oxide material to improve battery performance, aiming to address issues of capacity fading and voltage decay that have impeded commercial viability. The new cathode design, which includes modifications to the electrolyte, boosted energy retention to 84.3% after 700 charge/discharge cycles, compared to just 37.1% for traditional nickel-based batteries after 300 cycles. This innovation not only increases energy density by up to 20% but also makes the technology more economical and sustainable by reducing reliance on nickel and cobalt, as noted by the researchers. Professor Jihyun Hong emphasized the potential impact of this research, stating, “We believe this work will provide new directions for developing next-generation cathode materials.” The findings could significantly contribute to the future of electric vehicles and renewable energy storage.
KRKorea

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