Tag: China
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Rare earths: Botany meets geopolitics
The post discusses He et al., 2025’s work with Blechnum orientale, a fern that accumulates rare earth elements (REEs), in particular the mineral monazite. This discovery raises important questions about plants being a sustainable source for REEs. The post also provides background to REEs, and doesn’t ignore their geopolitical significance.
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Concrete, grounds for improvement
The use of coffee grounds in concrete enhances strength and sustainability. This breakthrough presents a solution that addresses concerns of building stability, such as those constructed with reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC).
Plant Cuttings 