Materials Sciences Division, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory 1 Cyclotron Road Berkeley CA 94720 USA Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California Berkeley Berkeley CA 94720 USA.
Dr. Reimer studies how the structure and properties of different materials, such as polyethylene and metal-organic frameworks, can be altered for better performance in various applications. This includes exploring new ways to capture carbon dioxide to combat climate change, enhancing battery technologies through magnesium and lithium-ion research, and improving polymer recycling methods. His research also delves into the relationship between molecular structure and material behavior, helping scientists create materials with specific, desired properties.
Key findings
In the study on carbon capture, a new material called TriH was found to absorb up to 8.9 millimoles of CO2 per gram, making it highly effective for reducing greenhouse gases.
By modifying metal-organic frameworks with ammonia, Dr. Reimer's team achieved a 106% improvement in CO2 capture efficiency compared to unmodified materials.
Research on the recycling of cycloolefin resins revealed that up to 84% of the original material can be recovered, promoting sustainability in plastic waste management.
In battery research, a significant measurement of 22 MHz indicated the stability and effective movement of magnesium ions in antiperovskite materials, essential for the next generation of batteries.
The discovery that adding amide groups to polyethylene decreases its crystallinity offers insights for engineers designing flexible and strong plastic materials.
Frequently asked questions
Does Dr. Reimer study carbon capture technologies?
Yes, he researches materials designed to effectively capture carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, which is important for addressing climate change.
What advancements has Dr. Reimer made in battery technology?
He investigates magnesium-ion conductors and lithium-based electrolytes to improve battery efficiency and performance.
Is Dr. Reimer's work relevant for recycling plastics?
Absolutely, his research focuses on optimizing recycling processes for various types of plastics to reduce waste and improve sustainability.
What kind of materials does Dr. Reimer develop?
He develops advanced materials including polymers, metal-organic frameworks, and nanocomposites with enhanced properties for industrial applications.
Can Dr. Reimer's research help with medical applications?
While his primary focus is on materials science, his findings on polymers and specific compounds could have implications for drug development and medical technologies.
Publications in plain English
Isolation of a Terminal Cobalt Nitride in a Metal-Organic Framework.
2026
Journal of the American Chemical Society
Börgel J, Removski N, Taylor JW, Hasanbasri Z, Chakarawet K +24 more
Plain English This study examined a special type of cobalt compound called a terminal cobalt nitride that was created in a controlled setting using a specific metal-organic framework. The researchers successfully produced this compound and confirmed its structure with various scientific methods, gaining new insights into its behavior. They discovered that this cobalt nitride can react with other substances in unusual ways, which is significant for understanding its potential uses in industrial and biological processes.
Who this helps: This benefits chemists and researchers exploring new materials for industrial and medical applications.
Illuminating the Effects of Interchain Interactions on the Catalytic Amidation of C-H Bonds in Polyethylenes.
2026
Journal of the American Chemical Society
Ciccia NR, McFadden ME, Haber S, Lahaie-Boivin P, Fan Y +3 more
Plain English This study looked at how certain interactions between long polymer chains (like those in polyethylene) affect a specific chemical reaction that modifies these materials. The researchers found that as they added more functional groups (up to 7% amides), the interactions among the chains increased, making the reaction less efficient over time. By using additional solvents, they were able to achieve higher levels of modification, leading to materials with improved properties, including increased toughness.
Who this helps: This benefits material scientists and manufacturers looking for more durable and versatile plastics.
Microstructure of amide-functionalized polyethylenes determined by NMR relaxometry.
2026
Chemical science
Haber S, Ciccia NR, Peng Z, Yang F, Im J +7 more
Plain English This study looked at how adding amide groups to polyethylene affects its structure. Researchers found that as more amide groups are added, the crystallinity of the material decreases, with these groups mainly settling in a specific area between the solid and flexible parts of the polymer. Understanding this behavior is important because it can lead to the development of better materials with tailored properties.
Who this helps: This benefits material scientists and engineers working on creating advanced plastic materials.
Plain English Researchers studied a new material called TriH, which captures carbon dioxide (CO2) from air, especially in humid conditions. They found that TriH can absorb up to 8.9 millimoles of CO2 per gram, making it one of the most effective materials for this purpose. This is important because capturing CO2 can help combat climate change by reducing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
Who this helps: This benefits environmental scientists and engineers working on climate change solutions.
Diffusion power spectra as a window into dynamic materials architecture.
2025
Science advances
Fricke SN, Salgado M, Haber S, Demarteau J, Hua M +3 more
Plain English This study looked at how certain types of plastic can be broken down for recycling. Researchers developed new methods to observe how the structure of these polymers changes over time and affects their ability to deconstruct, finding that the motion of the plastic chains is directly linked to how easily they react with chemicals to break apart. Specifically, they used a technique called NMR to analyze these dynamics, providing insights into optimizing recycling processes.
Who this helps: This research benefits environmental scientists and engineers focused on improving plastic recycling methods.
High-fidelity topochemical polymerization in single crystals, polycrystals, and solution aggregates.
2025
Nature communications
Yang C, Liu J, Khoo RSH, Abdelsamie M, Qi M +17 more
Plain English This study looked at a method called topochemical polymerization (TCP) to create high-quality polymers from specific molecules called chiral azaquinodimethane (AQM) in both solid crystals and liquids. Researchers found that using X-rays allowed them to successfully transform single crystals while maintaining their structure, and they were able to produce polymer nanofibers in a liquid that were structurally similar to those made in solid form. This is important because it opens up new ways to create advanced materials that are strong and useful for various applications.
Who this helps: This helps materials scientists and engineers working on advanced polymer applications.
Manipulating Aromaticity to Redirect Topochemical Polymerization Pathways.
2025
Journal of the American Chemical Society
Zhang Q, Pei Z, Song AY, Qi M, Khoo RSH +12 more
Plain English This study explored how changing the structure of certain chemical groups can influence the way specific materials, called polymers, are formed. Researchers found that by replacing some groups in a compound with others, they could create new types of polymers through different reaction pathways that would normally be difficult to achieve. For example, they produced a unique dimer and polymers using a new method that could be valuable for making advanced materials or drugs.
Who this helps: This helps chemists and researchers looking to develop new materials with specific properties.
Solvation governs cation transference in glyme-based lithium battery electrolytes.
2025
The Journal of chemical physics
Im J, Fang C, Halat DM, Chakraborty S, Hickson DT +5 more
Plain English This study looked at how well different electrolytes help lithium ions move in batteries, focusing on compounds called glymes. Researchers found that in three tested substances—tetraglyme, octaglyme, and poly(ethylene oxide)—the ability of lithium ions to carry current decreases at certain concentrations, dropping to values between -0.1 and -0.2 before improving again. This matters because understanding these interactions can help improve battery efficiency, leading to longer-lasting energy storage solutions.
Who this helps: This research benefits battery manufacturers and researchers looking to enhance battery technology.
Mechanistic Studies of Oxidative Degradation in Diamine-Appended Metal-Organic Frameworks Exhibiting Cooperative COCapture.
2025
Journal of the American Chemical Society
Xiong S, Sterling AJ, Tkachenko NV, Reyes RD, Tsai H +17 more
Plain English This study looked at how oxygen affects the materials used for capturing carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere. Researchers tested seven different materials and found that exposure to oxygen caused damage to certain components, called diamines, which reduces their ability to effectively absorb CO2. Specifically, they saw that the breakdown of diamines creates harmful byproducts and that the speed of this degradation can vary depending on the structure of these compounds.
Who this helps: This research benefits scientists and engineers developing better materials for carbon capture solutions.
Resin-to-Resin Circularity in Chemical Recycling of Dicyclopentadiene-Based Cycloolefin Resins.
2025
Journal of the American Chemical Society
Xu Z, Witko ML, Zheng H, Im J, Haber S +5 more
Plain English Researchers studied a way to recycle a specific type of plastic called cycloolefin resins (CORs), which are made using a chemical called dicyclopentadiene (DCPD). They found that their recycling method could recover up to 84% of the original material from used items, allowing them to make new CORs with similar properties to the original ones. This is important because it helps reduce waste from single-use plastics and promotes the reuse of materials in manufacturing.
Who this helps: This benefits manufacturers and reduces plastic waste, helping the environment.
Multistage Excision of Intravascular Leiomyoma With Extension Into the Right Atrium.
2025
JACC. Case reports
Reimer JA, Blinn P, Tanbour H, Kortan E, Semeyn M +3 more
Plain English Researchers studied a rare benign tumor called intravascular leiomyoma (IVL) that can extend from the uterus into blood vessels and even the heart, potentially causing life-threatening blockages. In this case, a 56-year-old woman had an IVL that reached her right atrium and ventricle. The tumor was removed in two stages: first from the heart and then from the pelvis, highlighting that a careful and planned multistage approach is important for safe treatment.
Who this helps: This helps patients with IVL and medical teams involved in their treatment.
Mg-Ion Conduction in Antiperovskite Solid Electrolytes Revealed byMg Ultrahigh Field NMR and First-Principles Calculations.
2025
Journal of the American Chemical Society
Halat DM, Liu H, Kim K, Alexander GCB, Wang X +11 more
Plain English This study looked at magnesium-ion batteries, which might be better than lithium-ion batteries because magnesium carries a double charge. Researchers used a special technique called high-resolution solid-state NMR to observe how magnesium ions move in potential battery materials called antiperovskites, specifically MgSbN and MgAsN. They found important details about the structure that can affect how well these materials conduct magnesium ions, including a significant measurement of 22 MHz that indicates the materials' stability and the ease of ion movement.
Who this helps: This research benefits battery developers and researchers looking to create more efficient energy storage solutions.
Mapping structures and dynamics with frequency-correlated diffusion exchange.
2025
Science advances
Fricke SN, Witherspoon V, Demarteau J, Helms BA, Reimer JA
Plain English This study examined how molecules move and exchange in complex materials using a new technique in nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). Researchers found that this method can track molecular movements and changes in physical structure over time, revealing important details about the processes involved in breaking down and recycling polymers. Specifically, they were able to measure properties like surface structure and reaction speeds that traditional methods couldn't capture.
Who this helps: This research benefits materials scientists and engineers working on polymer recycling and sustainable materials.
Mesh-like structure integrated core-shell-shell nanocomposites for enhanced stability and performance in carbon capture.
2025
Nature communications
Yang S, Mao H, Dun C, Liu J, Hou K +14 more
Plain English This study looked at new materials designed to capture carbon dioxide more effectively and withstand harsh conditions. Researchers created a special structure made of different layers that allows it to absorb carbon at a high rate of 3.4 millimoles per gram, while also holding up in acidic or basic environments, remaining stable even after one week. This is important because improving carbon capture technologies can help fight climate change by reducing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and industries focused on developing better carbon capture solutions.
Multivariate Machine Learning Models of Nanoscale Porosity from Ultrafast NMR Relaxometry.
2024
Angewandte Chemie (International ed. in English)
Fricke SN, Salgado M, Menezes T, Costa Santos KM, Gallagher NB +6 more
Plain English This study focused on finding a faster and easier way to measure the size of tiny pores in nanoporous materials, which are important for things like energy storage and chemical separation. Using advanced machine learning, researchers created a new method that can accurately predict pore size within about one minute, making it much quicker than traditional methods. This improvement can help develop better materials for various applications where pore size matters.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and developers of advanced materials.
High-Capacity, Cooperative COCapture in a Diamine-Appended Metal-Organic Framework through a Combined Chemisorptive and Physisorptive Mechanism.
2024
Journal of the American Chemical Society
Zhu Z, Tsai H, Parker ST, Lee JH, Yabuuchi Y +15 more
Plain English The study focused on a new material designed to capture carbon dioxide (CO2) effectively, which has the potential to help reduce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. Researchers developed a material called pip2-Mg(dobpdc) that can absorb about 1.5 molecules of CO2 for each diamine molecule at its peak capacity, which is significantly higher than previous materials that could only manage about 1 molecule. This is important because it shows a new method for capturing CO2, which could improve carbon capture technologies used to reduce emissions from sources like landfill gas.
Who this helps: Patients and the general public by contributing to efforts to combat climate change.
Magnetic resonance insights into the heterogeneous, fractal-like kinetics of chemically recyclable polymers.
2024
Science advances
Fricke SN, Haber S, Hua M, Salgado M, Helms BA +1 more
Plain English This study looked at how certain types of plastics, specifically a kind called polydiketoenamine elastomers, break down when exposed to chemicals. Researchers found that the structure of the plastic and the environment it is in both significantly affect how quickly and effectively it can be recycled. This understanding is important because it can help design better recycling processes, making it easier to turn waste plastics back into useful materials.
Who this helps: This benefits recycling facilities and manufacturers looking to improve plastic reuse.
Wang Y, Feric TG, Tang J, Fang C, Hamilton ST +9 more
Plain English This study looked at new materials that can capture carbon dioxide (CO2) and turn it into useful chemicals. Researchers found that the carbon captured exists in two main forms: carbamates and carbonates/bicarbonates, and they discovered how effectively these materials let carbon move around after it’s been captured. Understanding these details is important because it helps improve carbon capture technologies, which are crucial for reducing greenhouse gases.
Who this helps: This research benefits environmental scientists and engineers working on carbon capture technologies.
3D Lead-Organoselenide-Halide Perovskites and their Mixed-Chalcogenide and Mixed-Halide Alloys.
2024
Angewandte Chemie (International ed. in English)
Li J, Wang Y, Saha S, Chen Z, Hofmann J +5 more
Plain English This study looked at a new type of material called organoselenide-halide perovskites, which are being developed for use in solar cells and photocatalysis. Researchers found that these materials have varying light absorption properties, with band gaps of 2.07 eV for Cl and 1.86 eV for Br, and they can be adjusted to range from 1.86 to 2.31 eV by mixing different elements. This is important because it means these materials can be fine-tuned for better performance in renewable energy applications.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and manufacturers in the renewable energy sector looking to improve solar cell efficiency.
A holistic platform for accelerating sorbent-based carbon capture.
2024
Nature
Charalambous C, Moubarak E, Schilling J, Sanchez Fernandez E, Wang JY +16 more
Plain English This study explored a new platform called PrISMa that helps improve carbon capture technology by bringing together various fields like materials science and engineering. By evaluating over 60 different cases of capturing carbon dioxide from various sources around the world, researchers identified the most effective methods based on cost, environmental impact, and performance of materials used. This work is important because it aims to speed up the development of carbon capture technologies, which are crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and tackling climate change.
Who this helps: This helps policymakers, researchers, and industries involved in carbon capture and environmental sustainability.
Dynamic Bubbling Balanced Proactive COCapture and Reduction on a Triple-Phase Interface Nanoporous Electrocatalyst.
2024
Journal of the American Chemical Society
Zhang W, Yu A, Mao H, Feng G, Li C +19 more
Plain English Researchers studied a new type of catalyst that helps convert carbon dioxide (CO2) into useful chemicals and fuels. They found that their catalyst could cut down unwanted hydrogen production to below 5% while achieving an impressive 90% efficiency in turning CO2 into products like formate. This advancement is important because it improves the overall efficiency of environmentally friendly energy technologies that use CO2.
Who this helps: This benefits both researchers developing new energy solutions and industries looking to reduce carbon emissions.
Mechanochemically accelerated deconstruction of chemically recyclable plastics.
2024
Science advances
Hua M, Peng Z, Guha RD, Ruan X, Ng KC +8 more
Plain English This study looked at how to break down recyclable plastics faster by using special liquids that cause the plastic to swell. Researchers found that this method could speed up the breakdown process by more than six times compared to traditional methods, and overall deconstruction time could be reduced by up to seven times. This is important because it makes recycling more efficient and helps reduce plastic waste in the environment.
Who this helps: This benefits both manufacturers and recycling facilities, leading to more sustainable plastic use.
High-temperature carbon dioxide capture in a porous material with terminal zinc hydride sites.
2024
Science (New York, N.Y.)
Rohde RC, Carsch KM, Dods MN, Jiang HZH, McIsaac AR +18 more
Plain English This study investigated a new material designed to capture carbon dioxide (CO2) effectively at high temperatures, which is important for reducing emissions from industrial processes. The researchers found that their metal-organic framework could capture CO2 at temperatures over 200°C, achieving substantial carbon capture even when CO2 levels were low. This advancement could help make carbon capture technologies more viable and effective in real-world industrial settings.
Who this helps: This helps industries looking to reduce their carbon footprint and improve environmental sustainability.
Multistep Growth Pathway of Covalent Organic Framework Onion Nanostructures.
2024
Journal of the American Chemical Society
Zheng Q, Ren A, Zagalskaya A, Mao H, Lee D +8 more
Plain English This research studied how certain complex materials, called covalent organic framework (COF) onion nanostructures, grow in liquid. Using advanced imaging techniques, the researchers discovered that these nanostructures grow through a series of steps, including layering and structural adjustments. Understanding this growth process is important because it can lead to better control over how these nanostructures are formed, which could improve their use in various applications.
Who this helps: This helps materials scientists and engineers working on advanced materials.
Enhanced Carbon Dioxide Capture from Diluted Streams with Functionalized Metal-Organic Frameworks.
2024
JACS Au
Gładysiak A, Song AY, Vismara R, Waite M, Alghoraibi NM +5 more
Plain English This study looked at new materials designed to capture carbon dioxide from gas mixtures, like those produced when natural gas is burned. Researchers created three modified materials, with Al-TCPB(OH) being the most effective, capturing 0.52 millimoles of CO2 per gram, compared to 0.26 millimoles for the unmodified version. These materials can be reused multiple times without losing effectiveness, which is important for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Who this helps: This helps environmental scientists and industries looking to lower their carbon emissions.
Sequential Pore Functionalization in MOFs for Enhanced Carbon Dioxide Capture.
2024
JACS Au
Yadav AK, Gładysiak A, Song AY, Gan L, Simons CR +7 more
Plain English This study looked at a special type of material called metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to see how well they can capture carbon dioxide (CO2), which is important for reducing harmful emissions. Researchers found that by modifying these materials with ammonia (NH3) before introducing CO2, they improved CO2 capture by 106% compared to the original material. This discovery is significant because it shows a new way to enhance CO2 capture, which is crucial for fighting climate change.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and companies working on carbon capture technologies.
Lung-Mimetic Hydrofoam Sealant to Treat Pulmonary Air Leak.
2024
Advanced healthcare materials
Pinezich MR, Mir M, Graney PL, Tavakol DN, Chen J +11 more
Plain English Researchers studied a new type of sealant designed to fix lung air leaks, a common problem after lung surgery that affects up to 60% of patients. This new "lung-mimetic" hydrofoam sealant closely resembles lung tissue, allowing it to effectively seal air leaks in lab animal tests, restoring normal lung function. These findings are important because they provide a potential solution for a complication that traditionally lacks reliable treatment.
Who this helps: This benefits patients recovering from lung surgery.
Bullet Impact Into Automatic Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator Averts Serious Injury and Death.
2023
Annals of thoracic surgery short reports
Reimer JA, Abdelhady K, Sawaqed R, Knight BP, Franko S +3 more
Plain English A 26-year-old man with a heart condition was shot in the chest, and the bullet hit his implanted heart device, known as an automatic implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (AICD). Thankfully, while the device was damaged and needed replacement, it did prevent serious injuries or death. This case highlights the importance of the AICD in protecting patients, even in extreme situations.
Who this helps: Patients with heart conditions who rely on AICDs.
Plain English This research paper looks at a new method called spin hyperpolarization, which significantly enhances the signals in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). By improving signal strength, hyperpolarization can make MRI much more effective for clinical and scientific use. The study highlights various techniques and their potential to expand the applications of magnetic resonance, emphasizing the need for ongoing improvements to make these methods easier to use.
Who this helps: This benefits patients and doctors by providing better imaging techniques for diagnosis and treatment.
One-dimensional alignment of defects in a flexible metal-organic framework.
2023
Science advances
Fu Y, Forse AC, Kang Z, Cliffe MJ, Cao W +9 more
Plain English This research looked at a type of material called a metal-organic framework (MOF), which can have both rigid and flexible structures. The study found that by intentionally causing defects in the MOF, they could control how flexible the material is, achieving a balance between order and disorder. This is important because it opens the door to creating new materials with tailored properties for various applications, like improved drug delivery systems or storage materials.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and manufacturers developing advanced materials for medical and industrial use.
An ordered, self-assembled nanocomposite with efficient electronic and ionic transport.
2023
Nature materials
Quill TJ, LeCroy G, Halat DM, Sheelamanthula R, Marks A +7 more
Plain English In this study, researchers created a new type of material that can effectively conduct both ions and electrical signals by combining an organic semiconductor and an ionic liquid. They found that this material has a special layered structure that allows ions to move easily while still maintaining good electron flow, leading to improved performance at room temperature. This is important because it could lead to better designs for various electronic and energy storage devices.
Who this helps: This benefits engineers and researchers working on advanced electronic devices and batteries.
Hypsochromically-shifted Emission of Metal-organic Frameworks Generated through Post-synthetic Ligand Reduction.
2023
Angewandte Chemie (International ed. in English)
Smith KT, Hunter K, Chiu NC, Zhuang H, Jumrusprasert P +4 more
Plain English This study explored new materials that can emit light for better LED displays. Researchers developed metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) that emit green light at 525 nm and discovered that modifying these materials could change the light they emit from green to deep blue. One specific modification led to a shift in light emission by 113 nm, providing more options for creating efficient and adjustable lighting technology.
Who this helps: This benefits manufacturers of LED displays and electronics.
Solvent-derived defects suppress adsorption in MOF-74.
2023
Nature communications
Fu Y, Yao Y, Forse AC, Li J, Mochizuki K +4 more
Plain English This study looked at defects in a type of material called metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), specifically MOF-74, and revealed that certain defects caused by the solvent used in the manufacturing process can reduce its effectiveness. Researchers found that these solvent-derived defects decreased the material's ability to adsorb gases, like nitrogen and carbon monoxide, by a significant amount, specifically correlating the number of defects with reduced adsorption capacity. Understanding these defects is crucial because it helps improve the design and function of MOFs, which are important for applications like gas storage and separation.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and industries that use MOFs for gas-related applications.
Quantifying selective solvent transport under an electric field in mixed-solvent electrolytes.
2023
Chemical science
Fang C, Halat DM, Mistry A, Reimer JA, Balsara NP +1 more
Plain English This study looked at how different solvent mixtures in lithium-ion batteries transport ions when an electric field is applied. Researchers found that the solvent ethylene carbonate (EC) moves faster than ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC), affecting how well the battery works; specifically, there was a significant difference in transport numbers, which are measures of how much current each solvent carries. Understanding these dynamics is important for making batteries more efficient and longer-lasting.
Who this helps: This helps battery manufacturers and researchers working on improving lithium-ion battery technology.
Unveiling the complexity of nanodiamond structures.
2023
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America
Zheng Q, Shi X, Jiang J, Mao H, Montes N +4 more
Plain English The research focused on understanding the tiny, complex structures of nanodiamonds, which are very small versions of diamonds. The study found that cubic nanodiamonds less than 5 nanometers in size show specific patterns (called forbidden reflections) in their electron diffraction, which makes them hard to tell apart from new types of diamond. This matters because it sheds light on how defects and size affect nanodiamond structures, which could lead to new discoveries in nanotechnology.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and companies working with nanodiamonds in fields like electronics and medicine.
Ion correlation and negative lithium transference in polyelectrolyte solutions.
2023
Chemical science
Bergstrom HK, Fong KD, Halat DM, Karouta CA, Celik HC +2 more
Plain English This study looked at how ions behave in a special type of liquid called polyelectrolyte solutions, which are being considered for use in batteries because they have potential for high conductivity. Researchers found that when the chains of polymer used in the solutions became longer, both the ability of ions to conduct electricity and the movement of lithium ions decreased, with the latter even moving backward in an electric field in certain conditions. This discovery is important because it shows that using short-chain polyelectrolyte solutions might not be a good idea for making better batteries.
Who this helps: This helps battery manufacturers and researchers developing new battery technologies.
Acute immune responses in zebrafish and evasive behavior of a parasite - who is winning?
2023
Frontiers in cellular and infection microbiology
Mathiessen H, Kjeldgaard-Nintemann S, Gonzalez CMF, Henard C, Reimer JA +3 more
Plain English This study looked at how young zebrafish respond to an important parasite that affects freshwater fish. Researchers found that while the zebrafish larvae showed only mild inflammation when infected, they still produced a strong local immune response with active immune cells called neutrophils and macrophages fighting the parasite. Interestingly, the larvae that were 12 days old were less prone to infection compared to those that were 5 days old, indicating that as zebrafish mature, their immune responses improve.
Who this helps: This research benefits fish farmers and the aquaculture industry by improving understanding of fish immune responses to parasites.
Cooperative Carbon Dioxide Capture in Diamine-Appended Magnesium-Olsalazine Frameworks.
2023
Journal of the American Chemical Society
Zhu Z, Parker ST, Forse AC, Lee JH, Siegelman RL +13 more
Plain English This study looked at new materials made from magnesium and specific organic compounds to see how well they can capture carbon dioxide (CO2), particularly from coal-fired power plants. One of the materials tested, called ee-2-Mg(olz), was able to capture over 90% of CO2 from a simulated flue gas and was very stable when reused multiple times. This matters because improving CO2 capture can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.
Who this helps: This benefits environmental scientists and industries looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
Lithium transference in electrolytes with star-shaped multivalent anions measured by electrophoretic NMR.
2023
Physical chemistry chemical physics : PCCP
Chakraborty S, Halat DM, Im J, Hickson DT, Reimer JA +1 more
Plain English Researchers studied how a special kind of anion (a charged particle) affected the movement of lithium in a solution meant for batteries. They found that while the movement of these large anions was slow, the way lithium ions moved didn’t improve as expected. Specifically, they discovered that the lithium's movement, measured using different methods, showed conflicting results, revealing complex interactions between the lithium ions and the anions in the solution.
Who this helps: This information benefits battery developers working to improve lithium-ion batteries.
Reactive high-spin iron(IV)-oxo sites through dioxygen activation in a metal-organic framework.
2023
Science (New York, N.Y.)
Hou K, Börgel J, Jiang HZH, SantaLucia DJ, Kwon H +30 more
Plain English This study looked at how certain iron-based materials can react with oxygen to create reactive iron species, which are important for various chemical reactions. The researchers found that their specially designed framework could convert ethane into ethanol and catalyze the oxygenation of cyclohexane, showing promising results at low temperatures. This discovery is important because it helps mimic natural processes that use oxygen to facilitate chemical reactions, which could lead to more efficient industrial applications.
Who this helps: This benefits researchers and industries involved in chemical manufacturing and energy production.
Sound-guided assessment and localization of pulmonary air leak.
2023
Bioengineering & translational medicine
Pinezich MR, Mir SM, Reimer JA, Kaslow SR, Chen J +5 more
Plain English This study examined a new method to find and measure air leaks in the lungs after surgery by using sounds made when air escapes from damaged tissue. Researchers tested this technique in both rats and pigs and found that the sounds from air leaks can reveal how severe the leak is and where it is located, with an accuracy of about 1 centimeter. This method could help doctors better detect and treat lung air leaks during surgery, potentially improving patient outcomes.
Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing lung surgery and their doctors.
Characterization of Chemisorbed Species and Active Adsorption Sites in Mg-Al Mixed Metal Oxides for High-Temperature COCapture.
2022
Chemistry of materials : a publication of the American Chemical Society
Lund A, Manohara GV, Song AY, Jablonka KM, Ireland CP +4 more
Plain English The study focused on a type of material called Mg-Al mixed metal oxides, which can help capture carbon dioxide (CO2) from industrial emissions. Researchers discovered that increasing the ratio of aluminum to magnesium in these materials leads to more effective CO2 capture, showing specific chemical forms (mono- and bidentate carbonates) being created at different sites on the material. This research is important because it improves our understanding of how to enhance the efficiency of CO2 capture, which can contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Who this helps: This helps environmental scientists and industries aiming to lower their carbon emissions.
Electric-Field-Induced Spatially Dynamic Heterogeneity of Solvent Motion and Cation Transference in Electrolytes.
2022
Physical review letters
Halat DM, Fang C, Hickson D, Mistry A, Reimer JA +2 more
Plain English This study looked at how electric fields affect the movement of particles in electrolyte solutions, which are used in batteries and other technologies. Researchers found that when the concentration of the solution reached a certain level, the movement of cations (positively charged ions) and the surrounding solvent molecules became more consistent. Specifically, they identified a concentration where the cation's ability to move, known as the cation transference number, was nearly zero, suggesting that many solvent molecules were tightly bound to the cations rather than moving freely.
Who this helps: This information benefits researchers and developers working on improving battery performance and efficiency.
Covalent Organic Frameworks with Irreversible Linkages via Reductive Cyclization of Imines.
2022
Journal of the American Chemical Society
Yang S, Yang C, Dun C, Mao H, Khoo RSH +5 more
Plain English This study looked at a new way to create covalent organic frameworks (COFs), which are special materials with unique structures useful for various applications. Researchers successfully used a new chemical method to create strong connections within these frameworks, resulting in a version known as BIY-COF, which showed impressive proton conductivity without needing extra materials to enhance this property. This advancement is important because it can lead to better materials for things like energy storage and sensors.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and developers working on advanced materials for technology and energy solutions.
A scalable solid-state nanoporous network with atomic-level interaction design for carbon dioxide capture.
2022
Science advances
Mao H, Tang J, Day GS, Peng Y, Wang H +14 more
Plain English Researchers developed a new material designed to capture carbon dioxide effectively and sustainably. This material, called a melamine nanoporous network, can hold 1.82 millimoles of CO2 per gram and absorbs it in under a minute, making it both fast and efficient. This advancement is important as it helps reduce carbon emissions, which is essential for meeting climate goals.
Who this helps: This helps industries and environmental agencies working on reducing carbon emissions.
Evaluation of the Stability of Diamine-Appended Mg(dobpdc) Frameworks to Sulfur Dioxide.
2022
Journal of the American Chemical Society
Parker ST, Smith A, Forse AC, Liao WC, Brown-Altvater F +7 more
Plain English This study looked at how stable a new type of material, called diamine-appended Mg(dobpdc), is when exposed to sulfur dioxide (SO₂), which is a common pollutant in industrial emissions. The researchers found that after being tested with a gas mixture similar to what comes from coal burning, the material still had 91% of its ability to capture carbon dioxide (CO₂), showing it can withstand the presence of SO₂ without losing effectiveness. Understanding how this material interacts with SO₂ is important because it can help improve technologies that reduce carbon emissions from power plants.
Who this helps: This helps environmental scientists and engineers working on carbon capture technologies.
Complete characterization of a lithium battery electrolyte using a combination of electrophoretic NMR and electrochemical methods.
2022
Physical chemistry chemical physics : PCCP
Hickson DT, Halat DM, Ho AS, Reimer JA, Balsara NP
Plain English This study focused on understanding the properties of a liquid electrolyte used in lithium-ion batteries, specifically looking at its ability to conduct electricity and allow ions to move. The researchers found that using a combined approach of electric-field techniques and traditional measurements led to more accurate results. They demonstrated that this new method is effective at providing a clearer picture of how well the electrolyte performs, which is crucial for improving battery efficiency and longevity.
Who this helps: This benefits battery manufacturers and researchers working on developing better energy storage solutions.
Deconvolution of metal apportionment in bulk metal-organic frameworks.
2022
Science advances
Xu J, Liu X, Liu X, Yan T, Wan H +2 more
Plain English This research focused on understanding how metal ions, specifically magnesium (Mg) and nickel (Ni), are arranged in a specific type of material called metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). The study revealed that instead of being randomly positioned, only two out of eight possible arrangements are commonly found when nickel is included, which impacts how well the material can adsorb gases. This finding is important because it helps scientists better design and use these materials in applications like gas storage and separation.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and manufacturers working with advanced materials.
Understanding the Solvation Structure of Li-Ion Battery Electrolytes Using DFT-Based Computation andH NMR Spectroscopy.
2022
The journal of physical chemistry. B
Im J, Halat DM, Fang C, Hickson DT, Wang R +2 more
Plain English This study looked at how lithium ions behave when mixed with a specific solvent, tetraglyme, in Li-ion batteries. Researchers used computer simulations and special imaging techniques to find that different arrangements of the lithium ions and the solvent affect the signals we see in their measurements, allowing them to predict how well the solvent helps move the lithium ions. They confirmed that their methods were accurate, which is important for improving the efficiency of batteries in the future.
Who this helps: This helps battery researchers and manufacturers.
A clinically relevant model of acute respiratory distress syndrome in human-size swine.
2022
Disease models & mechanisms
Kaslow SR, Reimer JA, Pinezich MR, Hudock MR, Chen P +8 more
Plain English Researchers created a realistic model of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) using pigs that are similar in size to humans. They found that all the pigs developed moderate to severe symptoms of ARDS, with noticeable increases in lung swelling and injury over time. This model is important because it provides a platform to test new treatments for ARDS, a condition that can have a high death rate of over 30%.
Who this helps: This helps researchers and doctors looking for effective treatments for ARDS.