Discover how trees can be transformed into sustainable jet fuel, paving the way for greener aviation. Learn about revolutionary techniques allowing 3D printing of glass, reshaping manufacturing processes. The podcast also delves into feeding coral reefs, revealing that it might enhance their resilience against rising ocean temperatures. Together, these innovations present exciting prospects for sustainability and marine conservation.
A new method to convert lignin from trees into sustainable jet fuel aims to reduce aviation's environmental impact and enhance waste utilization.
Feeding coral reefs with zooplankton during heat stress could significantly improve their recovery and resilience against climate change effects.
Deep dives
Sustainable Jet Fuel from Lignin
A new process developed by scientists at Washington State University converts lignin, a waste product from trees, into a sustainable jet fuel. This innovation aims to reduce the environmental impact of aviation, which is responsible for approximately 2.5% of global CO2 emissions. By replacing fossil fuel-derived aromatics in traditional jet fuel with lignin-based compounds, the new fuel not only decreases waste but also leads to fewer contrails, which are known to trap heat in the atmosphere. Furthermore, this method is not only more affordable but also viable for commercial-scale production, allowing for easier integration into existing aircraft engines.
Advancements in 3D Printing Glass
Researchers at the University of Notre Dame have developed a method for 3D printing glass, combining elements of traditional glassblowing with modern technology. This new method uses a carbon dioxide laser to heat a small diameter glass filament, allowing for the creation of intricate, bubble-free structures suitable for scientific applications. Unlike traditional glass manufacturing, which is often costly and time-consuming, this technique offers rapid production of custom shapes that would otherwise be difficult to create. This capability could significantly benefit fields requiring specialized optics and advanced glass components, enhancing laboratory capabilities.
Feeding Coral Reefs to Combat Climate Change
Recent research suggests that feeding coral reefs with zooplankton during heat stress events may improve their recovery and resilience against rising ocean temperatures. Coral reefs, critical to marine biodiversity, are suffering due to climate change, with predictions indicating catastrophic losses if current trends continue. The study revealed that coral made to feed on plankton exhibited better growth rates and enhanced survival after bleaching events, indicating that the health of plankton could be crucial for coral sustenance. However, these findings also highlight the need for further research and emphasize that alleviating the effects of climate change requires urgent action beyond temporary solutions.
Today, you’ll learn about a more sustainable jet fuel made from trees, how a new process allows you to 3D print glass, and why feeding coral reefs might save them from heat stress.
Plant Jet Fuel
“New continuous reaction process can help turn plant waste into sustainable aviation fuel.” by Seth Truscott. 2024.
“Ocean acidification does not prolong recovery of coral holobionts from natural thermal stress in two consecutive years.” by Kerri L. Dobson, et al. 2024.
“NOAA confirms 4th global coral bleaching event.” NOAA. 2024.
Follow Curiosity Daily on your favorite podcast app to get smarter withCalli andNate — for free! Still curious? Get exclusive science shows, nature documentaries, and more real-life entertainment on discovery+! Go to https://discoveryplus.com/curiosity to start your 7-day free trial. discovery+ is currently only available for US subscribers.