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Updated: 1 hour 34 min ago

Scientists create solar cells that work underwater at 10 metres and run robots

15/09/2026
Innovative research has led to the creation of wide-bandgap perovskite solar cells tailored for underwater energy generation. Capable of harnessing limited light at depths of up to ten meters, these cells have been tested on underwater robots, showcasing their effectiveness and considerable power output. They displayed impressive durability during extensive storage and under simulated marine conditions, marking a significant advancement in power supply for sub-oceanic technologies and sensors.

Singapore researchers use fruit peels to recover metals from old batteries

15/09/2026
Singaporean researchers are using fruit peels to recycle lithium-ion batteries. Waste from oranges, lemons, and pineapples helps dissolve battery material and recover metals. This pilot plant processes shredded batteries, recovering valuable components for new battery production. The innovative method combines food waste and spent batteries, moving laboratory work towards commercial use. This approach aims to tackle battery waste and food waste together effectively.

Scientists turn railway track vibrations into electricity with a system producing peak power

14/09/2026
Researchers developed a system to capture wasted energy from heavy freight train vibrations. This system converts vertical track movement into one-way rotation to drive a generator. Tests showed a maximum mechanical efficiency of over seventy-three percent and peak power output. The recovered electricity can power low-power sensors and reduce battery needs. This innovation offers a self-powered solution for railway monitoring equipment.

How Singapore turned garbage ash into a 350-hectare island where mangroves and coral now flourish

14/09/2026
Singapore has pioneered a remarkable 350-hectare landfill created from incinerated waste, known as Semakau Landfill. This innovative site not only manages the nation’s scarce land but also provides a habitat for diverse marine life. With migratory birds nesting and corals thriving, this man-made island exemplifies successful waste management, projected to remain operational until 2035.

Scientists built a sponge pulling water from dry air; yields 1.72L per kg/day

14/09/2026
Scientists have engineered a groundbreaking wood-derived material capable of extracting water from arid air, effectively capturing moisture even at humidity levels as low as fifteen percent. Featuring a solar thermal storage component, it enables water release under dark conditions. Field experiments yielded substantial quantities of potable freshwater daily, signifying a revolutionary advancement in atmospheric water collection.

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