The Daily Innovation Newsletter

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April 25^th 2025

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⚡️ Energy

🇭🇰 Hong Kong scientists develop laser printing tech to speed up and improve lithium-sulfur batteries

Researchers at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology have created a single-step laser printing method that rapidly produces high-performance sulfur cathodes for lithium-sulfur batteries. This laser-induced conversion process completes complex manufacturing tasks in nanoseconds, making battery production faster and more scalable without sacrificing energy capacity or stability. Published in Nature Communications, the innovation could help lithium-sulfur batteries, offering five times the energy density of lithium-ion, become commercially viable and sustainable.

🚀 Space

🇨🇳 🇷🇺 Chinese and Russian scientists plan lunar nuclear plant to power long-term Moon missions

China and Russia aim to begin building a nuclear power plant on the Moon by 2028 to supply energy for the International Lunar Research Station (ILRS), enabling long-term human presence and scientific operations. The project, revealed by China’s Chang’e-8 mission lead engineer, leverages Russia’s strength in space-based nuclear power and supports the goal of completing a permanent base near the lunar south pole by 2035. If successful, it would mark a major shift in sustainable space exploration and deep-space infrastructure.

🦾 Robotics

🇬🇧 UK scientists test aerial robots that 3D print structures mid-air to build in hard-to-reach places

Researchers from Imperial College London and the University of Bristol have demonstrated aerial robots capable of 3D printing structures autonomously in mid-air, offering a novel method for constructing skyscrapers and disaster relief shelters. This technique, called Aerial Additive Manufacturing, was tested at Switzerland’s EMPA DroneHub and overcomes the height and access limitations of traditional construction. Published in Science Robotics, the study outlines a path toward scalable, flexible construction using swarms of flying robots.

🌎 Sustainability

🇬🇧 UK scientists launch £50M geoengineering trial to reflect sunlight and slow global warming

The UK government is funding a £50 million initiative to test aerosol-based geoengineering, aiming to reflect solar radiation from the stratosphere and cool the planet. Led by the Advanced Research and Invention Agency, the project will run small-scale, real-world trials to gather critical data on solar radiation management (SRM) and its potential climate effects. Though controversial, the effort could position the UK as a leader in geoengineering research amid growing climate urgency.

💊 Healthcare

🇺🇸 US researchers create smart bandage that detects infection and predicts healing in real time

Scientists at Caltech and the Keck School of Medicine of USC have developed iCares, a smart bandage that monitors chronic wounds in real time and predicts healing using microfluidics, sensors, and AI. The device tracks biomarkers like nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide up to three days before symptoms appear, helping detect inflammation and infection early. Published in Science Translational Medicine, this low-cost, 3D-printed system could revolutionize wound care for patients with diabetes or poor circulation.

🇨🇦 🇳🇱 Canadian and Dutch researchers create data-driven tool to personalize depression treatment

Scientists from the University of Alberta and Radboud University have developed a precision model that matches depression patients to the most effective treatment based on individual traits. Drawing on data from nearly 10,000 patients across 60 clinical trials, the system aims to guide doctors with tailored recommendations rather than general options. Published in PLOS ONE, the upcoming tool could reduce trial-and-error in treatment and improve outcomes globally with a low-cost, accessible solution.

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See you soon,

Max

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