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Japanese researchers at Mebiol have discovered an innovative new way to grow plants and crops. Substituting traditional soils with ultra thin films made of hydrogel, the scientists have been able to successfully block out unwanted bacteria and viruses in soil that can be harmful for plants. Essentially removing dirt from the equation, plant roots grow alongside the thin membrane of the hydrogel, a substance that is commonly found in diapers. The method isn't exactly a perfect replacement to traditional growing methods, since water is absorbed at a much slower rate.

Researchers work to shrink technology that harnesses sun's energy to both heat and coolEvery day, the sun bathes the planet in energy--free of charge--yet few systems can take advantage of that source for both heating and cooling. Now, researchers are making progress on a thin-film technology that adheres both solar cells and heat pumps onto surfaces, ultimately turning walls, windows, and maybe even soda bottles into climate control systems. On July 12, 2006, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) researcher Steven Van Dessel and his colleagues will announce their most recent progress--including a computer model to help them simulate the climate within...

PHOENIX, April 19 /PRNewswire/ -- RoseStreet Labs announced today a Solar Cell Commercialization Agreement to develop full spectrum photovoltaics, commonly referred to as PV's or solar cells, utilizing licensed technology jointly developed by Cornell University and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. These solar cells will be the first commercialized that capture the broad spectrum of the sun's energy utilizing thin film technology, a single material system and with potential efficiencies exceeding 55%. RoseStreet Labs plans on leveraging FlipChip International, its high volume semiconductor bumping foundry in Phoenix, to produce an excellent low cost renewable energy solution with this technology. The...