Shock wave/boundary layer interaction (SWBLI) has long been a challenge in compressible flow simulations due to its complex multi-scale and non-equilibrium characteristics. Particularly, the simulation of multi-scale SWBLI under near-space conditions poses significant challenges to traditional continuum models such as the Navier–Stokes (NS) equations. To address this, researchers employed a mesoscopic Discrete Boltzmann Method (DBM) to investigate the discrete effects and non-equilibrium behaviors in SWBLI which are beyond the NS description. Given that different interfaces such as temperature and density will provide different characteristic scales, correspondingly, will provide local Knudsen (Kn) numbers of different perspectives. From one perspective, the Kn number is increasing, but from another perspective, it may be decreasing. Therefore, the early understanding based on the definition of the Kn number from a single perspective was one-sided or even wrong. Therefore, researchers proposed the concept of the local Kn number vector: each component of it is a Kn number from one perspective. Based on the developed DBM theory and method, they discovered a series of kinetic features and new mechanisms in rarefied laminar SWBLI.

By focusing on adaptive aerodynamics, the ice-tolerance concept with variable drooping leading edge technology could revolutionize how planes handle icing skies. An ice tolerance solution based on the variable camber leading edge of iced wings is proposed, where the leading edge adapts its camber to counter ice effects. Compared with traditional aerodynamic design for ice tolerance, this concept not only strikes a balance between safety and functionality, but also boosts efficiency even under severe icing conditions.

A research team led by Dr. Yosep Han at the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources (KIGAM) has developed an eco-friendly electrochemical upcycling process that converts spent lithium manganese oxide (LiMn₂O₄) cathodes from lithium-ion batteries into high-voltage aqueous zinc–manganese redox flow batteries, without the need for high-temperature smelting or strong acid leaching typically used in conventional recycling methods.

To meet the growing demand for high-performance, low-cost sodium-ion batteries, researchers have developed a novel iron sulfate cathode material enhanced with magnesium doping. This modified structure improves the material’s stability under high temperatures and harsh electrochemical environments. The newly engineered cathode demonstrates enhanced reaction reversibility, reduced interfacial degradation, and excellent long-term cycling performance—even at elevated temperatures of 60 °C. The innovation lies in using Mg cations to reduce the crystal’s electron density, thereby mitigating harmful side reactions with water and electrolytes. This breakthrough presents a promising direction for developing durable sodium-ion batteries suitable for large-scale energy storage applications.

Green hydrogen holds immense promise for decarbonizing energy systems, yet when produced via water electrolysis, it relies heavily on rare and expensive noble metals. This study delves into the emergence of non-noble metal catalysts (NNMCs) as a transformative alternative for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in acidic environments. By unpacking the underlying mechanisms, performance bottlenecks, and degradation routes, the authors offer a roadmap to designing high-performing, stable NNMCs. The review also explores the latest innovations in catalyst engineering—from electronic tuning to surface reconstruction—that enable these cost-effective materials to rival their noble metal counterparts in water-splitting performance.

A team of researchers has unveiled a powerful imaging technique that captures a full-dimensional portrait of elusive trap states—defects that hinder the performance of perovskite solar cells. By combining scanning photocurrent measurement system (SPMS) with complementary tools like thermal admittance spectroscopy (TAS) and drive-level capacitance profiling (DLCP), the team produced detailed spatial and energy maps of these hidden imperfections. Leveraging these insights, they introduced a passivation strategy using sulfa guanidine molecules that dramatically improved device performance. The result: a record-breaking solar cell achieving 25.74% efficiency. This breakthrough not only unlocks a deeper understanding of device physics but also provides a practical pathway to next-generation solar technologies.

Researchers Dr. Heeyeon Kim and Dr. Yoonseok Choi from the High Temperature Electrolysis Laboratory at the Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER, President Yi, Chang-Keun), in collaboration with Professor WooChul Jung from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at Seoul National University, have successfully improved a catalyst used in dry reforming reactions* that produce energy from greenhouse gases.