David Chandler

A nationwide bottle deposit program could increase recycling of PET plastic to 82 percent, with nearly two-thirds of all PET bottles being recycled into new bottles, at a net cost of just a penny a bottle when demand is robust, MIT researchers report. At the same time, policies would be needed to ensure a sufficient demand for the recycled material.

MIT researchers identified materials that may do a good job of conducting protons — as opposed to electrons — without the need for ultrahigh temperatures. These materials could enable clean-energy tech, such as more efficient and durable fuel cells to produce clean electricity from hydrogen.

A new material for flexible electronics could enable multilayered, recyclable electronic devices and help limit e-waste. The material was developed at MIT, the University of Utah, and Meta.

A new model accurately represents the airflow around rotors, even under extreme conditions. Developed by MIT engineers, the model could improve the way turbine blades and wind farms are designed.

A filter developed at MIT might provide a nature-based solution to PFAS water contamination. Made from natural silk and cellulose, the material can remove many of these “forever chemicals” as well as heavy metals, and its antimicrobial properties can help keep the filters from fouling.

A new study of bubbles on electrode surfaces could help improve the efficiency of electrochemical processes that produce fuels, chemicals, and materials.

Novel magnetic nanodiscs could provide a much less invasive way of stimulating parts of the brain, paving the way for stimulation therapies without implants or genetic modification, MIT researchers report.

MIT researchers examine the mining of nickel, an essential element for some electric vehicle batteries, solar panels, and wind turbines. They discuss consequences for local environments, economies, and communities, and how to meet growing demand while improving environmental safety.

A new electrode design developed at MIT boosts the efficiency of electrochemical reactions that turn carbon dioxide into ethylene and other products.

Coordinating the siting of solar farms, wind farms, and storage systems, could have major benefits, according to MIT researchers. Taking into account variations in wind, sunlight, and energy demand maximizes utilization of renewable resources and reduces costs, they say.