The synergistic system of H₃PMo₁₂O₄₀ and acetic acid enables efficient lignin depolymerization to monophenols under mild oxygen pressure (0.1 MPa O₂). H₃PMo₁₂O₄₀ delivers dual acidic/oxidative functions, while acetic acid enhances lignin solubility, stabilizes catalyst complexes, and promotes oxygen activation. Crucially, this system stabilizes C_α-hydroxyl groups to inhibit recalcitrant C–C bond formation. This work establishes an industrially promising strategy for lignin valorization through oxidative cleavage under exceptionally mild conditions.

Simultaneously suppressing primary CO₂ formation through the stabilization of phase-pure iron carbides and secondary CO₂ generation via hydrophobic surface engineering and graphene confinement has emerged as a promising strategy in iron-based Fischer-Tropsch synthesis. These approaches effectively mitigate side reactions such as the water-gas shift and CO disproportionation, enhance active phase stability, and ultimately improve carbon efficiency, reduce CO₂ emissions, and promote selective formation of long-chain hydrocarbons under realistic FTS conditions.

Emory University launched the Emory BioFoundry Institute (EBFI), an initiative designed to empower researchers, entrepreneurs, and investors to transform groundbreaking ideas into real-world solutions that improve patient care and public health.

A swarm of spherical rovers, blown by the wind like tumbleweeds, could enable large-scale and low-cost exploration of the martian surface, according to results presented at the Joint Meeting of the Europlanet Science Congress and the Division for Planetary Sciences (EPSC-DPS) 2025. Recent experiments in a state-of-the-art wind tunnel and field tests in a quarry demonstrate that the rovers could be set in motion and navigate over various terrains in conditions analogous to those found on Mars. 

Improving biodiversity and maintaining yields at the same time? For many, this sounds like a contradiction in terms. However, a new study by the University of Würzburg shows that both are possible under the right conditions.