2007 Nobel Prize in Chemistry

The 2007 Nobel Prize in Chemistry has been awarded to Gerhard Ertl (Germany) "for his studies of chemical processes on solid surfaces". Dr. Ertl developed methodology to measure and analyze surface reactions under high-vacuum to prevent the contamination that could invalidate the measurements. Ertl used these techniques to elucidate the specifics of the Haber-Bosch process. The Haber-Bosch process is used to produce plant fertilizer. He also studied the oxidation of carbon monoxide on platinum, which is used to clean automobile emissions

Ionic liquids' Etch a Sketch surprise

Secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) employs an ion beam (e.g., gallium ions) allowing the chemical analysis of surfaces. When such was directed toward ionic liquids, the result fires electrons out of the liquid's surface, creating a dark pattern that can not only be written and read, but also erased and rewritten. Read all about it here.