Using Sound Waves to Triple Battery Life and Reduce E-Waste

Researchers at Melbourne, Australia’s RMIT University developed an acoustic device that can remove performance-inhibiting rust from batteries, tripling their lifespan and, hopefully, reducing how frequently they are discarded. The researchers used MXene, a nano-material that holds promise as an alternative to lithium batteries, yet is prone to rust. They discovered that high-frequency sound waves cause the MXene battery to vibrate with enough force for the …

Detroit’s Orchestra Hall, with Scientifically Verified Nearly Flawless Acoustics, Turns 100

Designed by C Howard Crane, an architect known for “theater palaces,” Detroit’s ornate, spectacular Orchestra Hall turns 100 years old on 23 October. With scientifically verified, nearly flawless acoustics, the venue houses the Detroit Symphony Orchestra—who are embarking on a program that will honor the 1919 season. Orchestra Hall’s shoebox shape favors sound over sight lines and its high ceiling with cloud panels perfect the …

Cautious Clay: Swim Home

Written with John Mayer, “Swim Home” is Cautious Clay (aka Joshua Karpeh) at his most delicate and spacious. “Swim home / Without a phone / Then say you love me / Kamikaze,” he pleads alongside a sparse instrumental. The track appears on Netflix’s 13 Reasons Why but does well, and warrants repeat listens, on its own. Clay will be on his Context Tour from September …