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Farming Could be Transformed by Self-Watering Soil

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The Texas University engineers have created a new kind of soil at Austin that pulls moisture from the atmosphere and distributing it to plant. Potentially the land has increased that can be farmed across the globe to formerly inhospitable areas and decrease water used in agriculture when droughts are growing.

ACS Materials Letters Journal has published the team’s details of the irrigation systems that draws in water from the air. Moisture absorbing gels capture atmospheric water. The gels release water after the soil has been heated to some temperature availing it to the plants. Some of the water that absorbs into the soil eventually finds its way back to the air, and humidity increases, and the cycle continues.

‘’Enabling free-standing agriculture in areas where it’s hard to build up irrigation and power systems is crucial to liberating crop farming from the complex water supply chain as resources become increasingly scarce,’’ Guihua Yu said, a materials science associate professor in the Mechanical Engineering, Walker Department.

Every soil gram can extract about 3-4g of water. It takes around 0.1-1kg of soil to water one square meter of farmland, depending on the crop.

Gels draw water into the soil during cooler nights in much humid periods and release the same moisture into the soil during the day.

Experiments were run by the team on the Cockrell School’s Engineering Teaching Centre Building on the roof to test the soil at UT Austin. The hydrogel soil retains more water than sandy soils from dry areas and needs less water to grow crops.

The team found out that the soil retained about 40% of the water amount it started during a 4-week experiment. Sandy soil still had only 20% water retained after a week.

The team had planted radishes in another experiment in both the soil types. Radishes survived for 14 days in the hydrogel soil without irrigation. They were only watered at the beginning to take hold. The radishes planted in sandy soil were watered for the first 4 days and then left without any irrigation. They lasted only two days.

‘’Most soil is good enough to support the growth of plants,’’ Fei Zhao said, a postdoctoral researcher from who led the study together with Panpan Zhang and Xingyi Zhou. ‘’It’s the water that is the main limitation, so that is why we wanted to develop a soil that can harvest water from the ambient air.’’

The first significant technology application the Yu’s group has worked on for over 2 years is water-harvesting soil. In 2019, the team innovated the use of hybrid materials made of gel and polymer, so called ‘super sponges’ that could extract large volumes of water from ambient air and clean it before releasing it. The technology was powered by solar energy.

The researchers have envisioned several other technology applications. Potentially it could be used to cool data centers, solar panels, and distribute drinking water to individual households or institutions.

This technology will enable nations to grow food on previously inhospitable land and feed a growing world population. There is already too much pressure on the available farmlands.

There is need to relieve pressure on the environment. Significant shifts in food consumption and land use are termed as necessary to hit 2050 goals by the UK. Many farmers in the UK are already making their farm operations more climate-neutral n 2035, with reports from several farmers that they are keen to achieve sustainability. Farmers in the UK grappling with the Covid-19 pandemic and the aftermath of Brexit have realized just how important it is to think differently.

When the Agriculture Bill was introduced by the UK government, brings with it rewards for farmers who tackle climate change and protect wildlife as an example of ‘public goods’ work. Considering that the UK is about to depart from the EU’s current subsidy system, It was necessary to have the new bill.

Genetic engineering has probably become a necessity because it is expected to help ensure global food security in the future. Several countries across the world are grappling with under nutrition and hunger alongside obesity. A third of the world population is undernourished in some way.

In the meantime, the University of Exeter researchers have estimated that 2 degrees Celsius global warming could lead to approximately 230 billion carbon tones released from the existing soil in the world.

The world’s soils contain at least double the carbon in the atmosphere, where increased temperatures heighten up decomposition, decreasing the time spent by carbon in the soil (which is known as ‘’soil carbon turnover’’).

The newest international research study published in the Nature Communications journal, led by Exeter University, discloses the soil carbon turnover sensitivity to global warming and eventually halves uncertainty in future climate change projections.

The projected 230 billion carbon let out at 2 degrees Celsius warming (which is higher than pre-industrial levels) could be higher than 4 times that of China’s total emissions and more than twice the USA’s emissions over the last century.

‘’Our study rules out the most extreme projections, but nonetheless suggests substantial soil carbon losses due to climate change at only 2 degrees Celsius warming and this doesn’t even include losses of deeper permafrost carbon,” co-author Dr. Sarah Chadburn, said from Exeter University.

The said effect on the world’s soil is known as ”positive feedback” – as climate change results in knock-on effects contributing to further change of climate.

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Apple’s Titanium Gambit: The iPhone 15 Pro’s Revolutionary Design and Its Industry Implications

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As the tech world eagerly anticipates Apple’s annual September event, rumors are swirling about a significant design change for the upcoming iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max models. According to recent reports, Apple is set to introduce a titanium frame for its high-end smartphones, marking a departure from the stainless steel used in previous generations.

This move towards titanium isn’t just about aesthetics; it represents a strategic shift in Apple’s approach to smartphone design and manufacturing. The adoption of titanium could have far-reaching implications for the industry, potentially influencing everything from device durability to production costs and environmental impact.

The Titanium Advantage

Titanium, known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, has long been a favorite material in industries ranging from aerospace to medical implants. Its introduction to the smartphone market could revolutionize device design. The Titanium Association highlights that titanium is as strong as steel but 45% lighter, offering significant weight reduction without compromising structural integrity.

For consumers, this could mean a more durable, lighter iPhone. The American Society for Testing and Materials notes that titanium’s corrosion resistance is superior to many other metals, potentially extending the lifespan of devices exposed to everyday wear and tear.

Manufacturing Challenges and Innovations

While titanium offers numerous benefits, it also presents unique manufacturing challenges. The material is notoriously difficult to machine, requiring specialized tools and techniques. The National Institute of Standards and Technology has conducted extensive research on optimal titanium machining methods, highlighting the complexity of working with this metal.

Apple’s decision to use titanium suggests that the company has likely developed innovative manufacturing processes to overcome these challenges. This could include advanced CNC machining techniques or novel alloy formulations that make titanium more amenable to mass production.

Environmental Considerations

As sustainability becomes an increasingly important factor in consumer electronics, the shift to titanium raises questions about environmental impact. Titanium mining and processing can be energy-intensive, but the metal’s durability and recyclability could offset these concerns over the long term.

The Environmental Protection Agency emphasizes the importance of sustainable materials management in electronics. If Apple’s titanium iPhones prove more durable and longer-lasting, it could contribute to a reduction in electronic waste, aligning with global efforts to create more sustainable tech products.

Market Implications and Consumer Response

The introduction of a titanium iPhone is likely to have significant market implications. Historically, Apple’s design choices have influenced the broader smartphone industry. We may see other manufacturers following suit, leading to a new era of metal alloys in consumer electronics.

However, the use of titanium could also impact pricing. Given the material’s higher cost compared to stainless steel or aluminum, consumers might see a price increase for the Pro models. The U.S. Geological Survey provides data on titanium prices, which have fluctuated in recent years due to various global factors.

The consumer response to a potentially pricier but more premium device will be crucial. Apple’s brand loyalty is strong, but the company will need to effectively communicate the benefits of titanium to justify any price increases.

Technical Specifications and Features

Beyond the frame material, the iPhone 15 Pro is rumored to include several other notable upgrades. Reports suggest an enhanced camera system, potentially featuring a periscope lens for improved optical zoom capabilities. This aligns with the ongoing trend of smartphone manufacturers focusing on camera technology as a key differentiator.

The device is also expected to feature the A17 Bionic chip, built on a 3-nanometer process. This could offer significant improvements in performance and energy efficiency, further distinguishing the Pro models from their standard counterparts.

Another significant change is the rumored switch from Lightning to USB-C ports, a move that would bring Apple in line with EU regulations mandating a common charging standard. This change could have far-reaching effects on the Apple accessory ecosystem and user behavior.

Industry Expert Opinions

Industry analysts are divided on the potential impact of Apple’s titanium adoption. Some see it as a game-changing move that could redefine smartphone durability standards. Others view it as a premium feature that may not significantly alter the broader market.

IDC, a leading market intelligence firm, suggests that while titanium could enhance the iPhone’s premium positioning, its impact on overall market share may be limited. The true test will be in how effectively Apple integrates this material into its design and marketing strategies.

Competitive Landscape

Apple’s move to titanium could prompt responses from competitors. Samsung, for instance, has experimented with various materials in its flagship devices, including glass and aluminum. The Korean Intellectual Property Office has seen an increase in patents related to smartphone materials and manufacturing processes, indicating that other companies are also exploring innovative design solutions.

Chinese manufacturers like Xiaomi and Huawei, known for rapid innovation, may also accelerate their research into alternative materials. This could lead to a new phase of competition centered around device materials and build quality.

Looking Ahead

As we approach Apple’s September event, the tech community is abuzz with speculation. If the titanium rumors prove true, it could mark the beginning of a new era in smartphone design. The success of this move will depend on various factors, including manufacturing efficiency, cost management, and consumer reception.

Regardless of the immediate outcome, Apple’s exploration of titanium in consumer electronics is likely to spur innovation across the industry. From material science advancements to new manufacturing techniques, the ripple effects could be felt for years to come.

As we await official confirmation from Apple, one thing is clear: the smartphone industry is far from stagnant. With each new material and design choice, companies like Apple continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in mobile technology, promising an exciting future for consumers and tech enthusiasts alike.

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The Dawn of New Climate Technologies: Navigating the Future of Geoengineering

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In an era marked by the relentless progression of climate change, the pursuit of innovative solutions has led to the exploration of geoengineering technologies once deemed the province of science fiction. These ambitious endeavors, ranging from infusing clouds with sulfur dioxide to mitigate solar radiation, to the development of direct air-capture plants capable of removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, signify a pivotal shift in our approach to environmental preservation.

With last year recorded as the hottest in modern history, the escalation of natural disasters and the warming of oceans have underscored the pressing need for immediate and impactful action. In this context, the initiatives spearheaded by both new startups and established players in the fossil fuel industry highlight a complex landscape of innovation, ambition, and controversy.

The project undertaken by Occidental Petroleum in Odessa, Texas, exemplifies the potential and challenges inherent in direct air-capture technology. By sequestering carbon dioxide underground, this facility represents a significant step towards reducing atmospheric CO2. However, its dual role in facilitating further oil extraction raises questions about the long-term benefits of such technologies.

Contrastingly, Climeworks’ facility in Iceland presents a model focused solely on the reduction of greenhouse gases, without the complicating factor of contributing to fossil fuel production. This distinction underscores the diverse strategies emerging within the field of geoengineering, each with its own set of ethical, environmental, and economic implications.

The exploration of alternative geoengineering methods, including the release of sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere and the induction of phytoplankton blooms, further illustrates the innovative yet controversial nature of these interventions. While the potential to significantly impact global climate patterns is evident, the absence of comprehensive regulatory frameworks and international standards presents a formidable challenge to the responsible implementation of such technologies.

As we venture into this new frontier, the insights from David Gelles’ article in The New York Times offer a critical perspective on the evolving landscape of climate technology. With the market for geoengineering solutions projected to experience exponential growth, the dialogue surrounding these technologies is increasingly relevant to policymakers, scientists, and the global community at large.

In navigating the future of geoengineering, the balance between innovation and regulation, ambition and responsibility, becomes paramount. As the world grapples with the escalating threat of climate change, the pursuit of geoengineering technologies invites us to reconsider our relationship with the planet and the legacy we wish to leave for future generations.

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Solar Powered Fresh Drinking Water

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Chinese scientists have created a cheap and super-efficient sea water desalination solution that runs on solar energy.

The desalination system employs a Titanium-containing Layer that absorbs solar energy. The solar absorber consists of a unique paper on which they deposit the Titanium-containing layer which uses foam to float on the sea.

The Titanium layer heats rapidly when exposed to sunlight. It is this heat that vaporizes water. Sealing the unit within a transparent container with a slopy roof made of quartz allows the vapor to condense and the fresh water is collected.

Lead author Chao Chang explains that TiNO is already proven to be effective: “In the solar energy field, TiNO is a common commercial solar-absorbing coating, widely used in solar hot water systems and in photovoltaic units.  It has a high solar absorption rate and a low thermal emittance and can effectively convert solar energy into thermal energy.”

Together, the scientists came up with an innovative way to deposit the TiNO using the magnetron sputtering technique.

The team worked with airlaid paper – a porous paper that supplies the contraption with seawater. It functions like a wicker.

They assembled three parts to create the evaporation unit: the airlaid paper at the very bottom, a thermal insulator, and the TiNO paper at the very top. Airlaid paper is a component of disposable diapers and is built from wood fibres.

The insulation is made using polyethylene foam and contains many pores filled with air that give the unit the buoyancy it needs to float on seawater. This keeps heat loss at a minimum.

“The porous airlaid paper used as the substrate for the TiNO solar absorber can be reused and recycled more than 30 times,” explained Chang.

The researchers wanted to minimize any negative impact of salt precipitation on the device’s efficiency. But they observed that there was no layer of salt on the TiNO surface even after a long while.

This might mean that the paper wicks are porous enough to keep salt from depositing on the TiNO, and that all the salt in the seawater goes back to the main reservoir of water.

Normal seawater is highly saline, at 75,000mg per liter. This is vastly different from normal drinking water whose salinity is only 200mg per liter.  After going through the desalination unit, seawater goes all the way down to 2mg per liter of salt.

The Chinese team of researchers puts together a winning combination of affordability, high efficiency, and hygiene to create desalination that could help make fresh water available to people who face scarcity of water.

A Florida-based team of scientists suggested harnessing geothermal energy to desalinate water without using carbon fuels.

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