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Georgia Institute of Technology


Ants: Both solid-like and liquid-like

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology found that ants can flow like liquids when subjected to high pressure, but also exhibit springy behavior when probed at short times. This unique combination of properties allows ants to build bridges, span gaps, and even self-assemble into rafts to survive floodwaters.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateOct 26, 2015

How to fall gracefully if you're a robot

Researchers at Georgia Tech developed an algorithm to teach robots how to fall safely by determining the optimal sequence of movements to slow their momentum. The planning algorithm was validated through physics simulation and experimental testing on a humanoid robot, enabling potential applications in healthcare and domestic tasks.

Opposites don't attract when learning how to use a prosthesis

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology found that upper limb amputees who learned from fellow amputees using a similar prosthetic device showed significant improvement in motor skills and brain activity. The study suggests that people are better equipped to adapt when learning from someone with similar physical characteristics.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNeurorehabilitation and Neural Repair·DateOct 8, 2015

Nano-mechanical study offers new assessment of silicon for next-gen batteries

Researchers have reported surprisingly high damage tolerance in electrochemically-lithiated silicon materials, suggesting all-silicon anodes may be commercially viable. The study found that above a certain concentration of lithium, the material becomes more tolerant to damage, making it possible to design durable silicon-based batteries.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 24, 2015

New approach could reduce human health impacts of electric power generation

Researchers have developed a new capability to minimize human health effects of air pollution from electric power generating facilities. The Air Pollutant Optimization Model provides a hybrid approach that balances health and cost savings, reducing health impacts by $176 million while increasing costs by $84 million.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 17, 2015