While light scattering is widely utilized in optical metrology and measurement, it has long been regarded as detrimental in laser-material processing. Scientist in China proposed an interferometric scattering-based optical tomoslicing technology (i-SOT), which overturns this conventional view and kerf widths as narrow as 7 nm under an industrial standard efficiency were achieved. This unprecedented axial resolution enables nearly lossless laser wafering from ingots——with transformative potential for manufacturing laser crystals, photovoltaics, and microelectronic chips.

A research team has found that replacing 15% of mineral nitrogen fertilizer with organic manure can accelerate soil nitrogen cycling while significantly reducing nitrous oxide (N₂O) emissions from tobacco fields. 

This study systematically evaluates heavy metal contamination in liquid foundation products using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, with particular attention to thallium, a highly toxic neurotoxic metal. Most detected substances remained within the limits specified by China’s Safety and Technical Standards for Cosmetics (2015). However, thallium concentrations in two product batches exceeded the reference limits. Further source analysis showed a notably high thallium detection rate in samples containing zinc oxide, suggesting contamination during zinc oxide production. The findings highlight the need for stricter raw material control, improved thallium removal technologies, independent testing, and more refined safety standards for vulnerable populations.

A research team has revealed how geographical conditions and local micro-environments jointly regulate nitrogen removal in a forest-dominated river, with the dominant controls shifting between seasons. 

A research team has found that finely ground coconut-shell biochar can simultaneously increase carbon dioxide (CO₂) uptake and improve the mechanical performance of natural hydraulic lime (NHL). 

The release of marine isoprene is an important component of material exchange between the ocean and the atmosphere, and its long-term variability and climatic drivers have attracted widespread attention. A research team led by Professor Jialei Zhu at Tianjin University constructed a global marine isoprene emission flux dataset spanning 1950–2020 using machine learning and an improved parameterization scheme. Basing on this dataset, they have revealed mechanisms through which the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) modulates the interannual variability of marine isoprene emissions by influencing sea surface temperature, solar radiation, surface winds, phytoplankton activity, and other environmental factors. This study has been published in 2026 Chinese and English editions of SCIENCE CHINA Earth Sciences.

A multi-institutional research team reviews progress in CO₂-involved organic synthesis over the past five years. By organizing reactions according to C-C, C-N, and C-O bond formation, the review highlights the growing role of photochemistry and electrochemistry in converting CO₂ into value-added organic products.