Recreating Egyptian Blue: A 5000-Year-Old Pigment with Modern Applications

2025-06-10
Recreating Egyptian Blue: A 5000-Year-Old Pigment with Modern Applications

Researchers at Washington State University have successfully recreated Egyptian blue, the world's oldest synthetic pigment, used in ancient Egypt approximately 5,000 years ago. Through experimentation with various raw materials and heating times, they developed 12 recipes for the pigment, providing valuable insights for archaeologists and conservation scientists. Surprisingly, beyond its historical significance, Egyptian blue exhibits properties like near-infrared luminescence, suggesting potential modern applications in fields such as fingerprint identification and anti-counterfeiting inks. This research not only unveils the secrets of ancient Egyptian craftsmanship but also highlights the power of modern science in exploring our past.

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WSU Scientists Crack the Code to Low-Cost Biofuel Production

2025-05-06
WSU Scientists Crack the Code to Low-Cost Biofuel Production

Scientists at Washington State University (WSU) have developed a novel method for producing low-cost sugar from corn stalks and other crop waste, paving the way for sustainable biofuel production. Their process utilizes ammonium sulfite-based alkali salts to pretreat corn stover at mild temperatures, enabling enzymes to break down cellulose into fermentable sugar without chemical recovery. By offsetting production costs through byproduct sales (including fertilizer), the resulting sugar could cost as little as 28 cents per pound, competing with imported sugar. This breakthrough promises to significantly improve the economic viability of biofuels and advance sustainable energy solutions.

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