Recent Posts
XG Sciences takes a top-down approach to nanomaterials
Lighter and cheaper materials possess the unique DNA capable of transforming entire industries, from large automobiles to tiny transistors. And when it comes to next generation cleantech devices and systems, there’s a burning demand for materials with complex, innovative materials.
Michigan State University researchers have discovered what they think is an ideal candidate: A nanomaterial (a nanometer is a billionth of a meter) that makes ordinary plastic stiffer, lighter, stronger and capable of conducting electricity… Continue Reading
A cooler future for computing
For years, finding ways to remove heat from ever faster and smaller chips has been the Achilles’ heel of the chip industry, which has relied on noisy, inefficient fans. Researchers at Purdue University have a better idea: Penny-sized pumps pushing refrigerant fluids to cool hot computer chips as they crunch numbers.
The Purdue team was able to develop an analytical model that paved the way for designing such miniature compressor and evaporator pumps. And the… Continue Reading
Water scarcity woes point to big opportunities in desalination
The drying of the western U.S. and recent news that California is in its second year of a drought has notched up the urgency of water issues. One potential solution is desalination, but such systems have long been considered pricey energy hogs. That’s fine for oil rich countries near the sea like those in the Middle East, but elsewhere it has been a major impediment.
Luckily for desalination technology manufacturers, there’s actually a triple threat to… Continue Reading
Water monitoring technology gets $8M boost in San Francisco, with more funds to come
Water shortages have recently captured headlines here and abroad. Yet despite the enormous challenges and opportunities with managing and monitoring drinking water, it’s an area that doesn’t attract a great deal of venture investment. In the last quarter of 2007, water and waste water investment was only $22.7 million, which was double the previous year’s total of $11.8 million, according to the Cleantech Investor Forum.
That area of investment could benefit in the next year from… Continue Reading