Chemistry

ETH Zurich scientists with single-atom indium catalyst converting CO2 to methanol in a high-tech lab reactor, sustainable energy theme.

Scientists develop single-atom catalyst for CO2-to-methanol conversion

March 20, 2026 Ti AI ṣe iroyin Àwòrán tí AI ṣe

Researchers at ETH Zurich have engineered a catalyst using isolated indium atoms on hafnium oxide to convert CO2 and hydrogen into methanol more efficiently than previous methods. This single-atom design maximizes metal use and enables clearer study of reaction mechanisms. The breakthrough could support sustainable chemical production if powered by renewables.

Smell of Egyptian mummies reveals 2,000-year-old embalming secrets

Chemists at the University of Bristol analyzed the air around tiny fragments of Egyptian mummies to identify volatile organic compounds linked to embalming materials. The study, covering remains from 3200 BC to 395 AD, found 81 distinct compounds from oils, resins, beeswax, and bitumen. These clues show mummification practices grew more complex over time.

Quantum chemistry may not be the killer app for quantum computers

March 12, 2026 Ti AI ṣe iroyin

A new analysis indicates that two key quantum computing algorithms for chemistry problems have limited practical use, even with advancing hardware. Researchers suggest that calculating molecular energy levels may not justify the technology's investment as hoped. This challenges the view of quantum chemistry as a major application for quantum computers.

Ìlera

Researchers create efficient iron photocatalyst for drug synthesis

Science

Scientists synthesize silicon-based aromatic molecule after 50 years

Technology

Researchers develop manganese catalyst to convert CO2 into formate

UCLA chemists challenge century-old rule with distorted molecules

Researchers at the University of California, Los Angeles, have synthesized cage-shaped molecules featuring unusually warped double bonds, defying long-held principles of organic chemistry. This breakthrough builds on their 2024 overturning of Bredt's rule and could influence future drug design. The findings appear in Nature Chemistry.

Frozen hydrogen cyanide may have sparked life on Earth

January 16, 2026 Ti AI ṣe iroyin

A new study suggests that hydrogen cyanide, a highly poisonous chemical, could have played a key role in the origins of life by forming reactive ice crystals in extreme cold. Computer simulations show these crystals promote unusual chemical reactions that produce building blocks for life. The findings highlight the chemical potential of frozen environments, including those beyond Earth.

Elkem Silicones explosion: two dead, unions to become civil parties

Two workers have died and two others were injured in Monday's explosion at the Elkem Silicones plant in Saint-Fons near Lyon. Unions CGT and CFDT announced plans to become civil parties in the investigation for involuntary manslaughter, deeming the incident 'intolerable'.

Alphafold reaches five-year milestone in scientific impact

December 24, 2025 Ti AI ṣe iroyin

Google DeepMind's AlphaFold artificial intelligence system has marked its fifth anniversary, continuing to evolve after revolutionizing biology and chemistry. The project earned the Nobel Prize in Chemistry last year for its groundbreaking contributions. WIRED recently discussed its trajectory with DeepMind's Pushmeet Kohli.

March 07, 2026 03:15