The Brookhaven National Laboratory, operated by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), has announced its top 10 scientific discoveries for 2024. The laboratory is renowned for its research capabilities, which attract scientists from across the globe. This year’s findings span a range of topics from subatomic particles to atmospheric science.
One notable discovery was made at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC), where researchers identified the heaviest antimatter nucleus ever detected. Comprising an antiproton, two antineutrons, and an antihyperon, this nucleus decays rapidly but offers new insights into matter-antimatter differences.
In another advancement, Brookhaven chemists developed a catalyst for converting methane directly into methanol at low temperatures. This method could be useful for exploiting remote natural gas reserves without extensive infrastructure.
Biochemists at Brookhaven also uncovered how plant proteins manage energy resources based on sugar levels. This understanding could lead to engineered plants with increased oil production for biofuels.
Research on tantalum's potential as a qubit material in quantum computing revealed that a magnesium coating enhances its properties by preventing oxidation and improving superconductivity.
Brookhaven's atmospheric scientists achieved a first by remotely observing cloud-droplet formation zones using high-resolution LIDAR technology. These observations are crucial for understanding cloud development and climate impact.
At the Center for Functional Nanomaterials, DNA was used to guide molecules into 3D nanostructures with applications in semiconductors and advanced energy systems.
Nuclear theorists made significant predictions regarding mesons at the future Electron-Ion Collider (EIC). These calculations will aid in understanding fundamental particle interactions.
Using X-ray free-electron lasers, scientists captured atomic movements within quantum materials transitioning between phases. This technique provided new insights into material states during laser excitation.
A breakthrough in battery chemistry involved adding cesium nitrate to lithium-metal batteries, enhancing their recharge rate while maintaining cycle life.
Lastly, X-ray imaging methods were combined to explore cellular structures and functions at nanometer resolution without damaging them. This approach holds promise for medical and agricultural advancements.
Brookhaven Lab also celebrated several milestones: procurement began for EIC construction; a record data storage capacity was achieved; NSLS-II marked ten years of operation; and an atmospheric observatory opened in Alabama to study aerosol-cloud interactions over five years.
Funding for these projects primarily came from the DOE Office of Science, with RHIC, CFN, NSLS-II, and ARM being key facilities supporting this research.