The International Rubber Conference will explore various aspects of rubber technology, including bonding to other materials, civil engineering, environmental impact, and product performance. Authors are invited to submit abstracts by September 29, 2000.
According to Professor Valerie Randle's research, the imbalance in senior positions is attributed to differing attributes and aspirations of men and women. More women are now aspiring towards senior management positions due to growing schemes like networking and mentoring.
A new sensing and control system is being developed to regulate melt rate, temperature, and iron composition in cupola furnaces, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Intelligent, Integrated, Industrial Process Sensing and Control System (I3PSC) has the potential to save 1500 tonnes of coke annually in the US alone.
Engineers at Smart Fibres Ltd developed a smart mast that uses 'Bragg grating' strain sensor technology to monitor stresses and strains in composite materials. The technology has the potential for use in various industries, including aerospace and civil engineering.
A global system involving human-machine integration will evolve, leveraging ceramic materials and nanotechnology to provide food and clean water. The future may hold composite life forms with organic and inorganic elements.
The Institute of Materials is seeking abstracts for Materials Congress 2000, a major meeting of materials engineers and scientists. The event will attract 600 delegates and include a comprehensive conference programme, exhibitions, and social activities.
Researchers at AeroMet developed the Lasform process, which builds high-tech titanium components using laser forming and powdered titanium. The process reduces production scrap and time to weeks, ideal for prototype parts and small production runs.
Spray forming technology uses tiny metallic droplets to create strong aerospace alloys, reducing production costs and increasing strength. This process enables the creation of larger components, benefiting from cost reduction and improved alloy utilisation.
A new scanning device enables researchers to examine internal characteristics of composite engine parts as they are mended, improving use of composite materials. Initial experiments showed that surface integrity can belie internal damage in graphite fibre-PEEK composites.
The 'Edge of Light' scanner uses light reflection to create a high-resolution map of surface topography, detecting deformation between rivets caused by corrosion. This technology has the advantage over existing NDI technology, allowing for non-destructive inspection and potential applications in forensic studies and forgery detection.
Researchers develop lasershot peening to enhance material tensile strength and crack resistance, crucial for turbine blades. The surface engineering technique significantly improves fatigue resistance without damaging the material.
Nitec's electroless nickel plating technology has been used to create a highly polished mirror with excellent optical performance. The technique, which ensures an even deposit of the coating, has achieved enormous cost savings in the restoration project.
A new material, Hi-Por, is being considered as a replacement for refractory ceramic fibers due to its heat resistance and fiber-free nature. It has already been used in the nuclear industry due to its greater resistance to nuclear radiation.
The PVC industry is expected to see significant growth in the developed world, thanks to innovation and advancements in technology. New studies have found that phthalates have little or no effect on human health, providing a safer alternative for manufacturers. The conference also explored ways to improve the industry's image and provi...
The new technology allows manufacturers to produce complex shapes out of high-strength and high-performance metals and alloys. Metal injection moulded parts are finding use in various industries, including office equipment, industrial machines, medical appliances, and household goods.
Researchers developed a new technique to visualize the three-dimensional internal structure of objects using sonic imaging. This method stacks planar ultrasound images and provides detailed analysis without physically cutting open the part.
Researchers at De Montfort University discovered a porous version of silicon with potential for biocompatibility, allowing for the transmission of signals between mechanical devices and human tissue. This breakthrough could lead to innovative applications in sensing and prosthetics.
A new type of degradable polyethene, SPI-TEK, breaks down in five years and allows other organic materials to decompose, increasing landfill site capacity. Bayer is also testing a new 100% degradable polyester suitable for industrial production in agriculture and food sectors.
Researchers found that contaminants can have very little impact on the physical properties of plastics, allowing for more functional products to be made from recycled materials. This could increase production of recycled plastic products like car bumpers and street furniture.
The new high-strength, ultra-thin steels are being tested for endurance on life-size testing rigs to simulate 40,000km of rocky road driving. The materials range in thickness from 0.7 to 2 mm and have improved fatigue properties.
Professor Lynda Warren argues that local residents' opinions are distorted by political rhetoric and underestimated by the industry. She calls for increased transparency and involvement from politicians and companies to address public fears about radioactive waste.
According to Professor Bernard Cohen, nuclear power plants emit fewer carcinogens and pollutants compared to coal burning power stations. This results in a much lower fatality rate, with air pollution from coal causing 25 fatalities per minute versus only 0.018 for nuclear.
The special issue of Interdisciplinary Science Reviews explores various aspects of radioactive waste disposal, including geological disposal, natural analogues, and engineered barriers. Leading experts from different fields share their knowledge to provide a comprehensive understanding of the complex problem.
A new X-ray device developed by YSI (UK) allows manufacturers to ensure proper protective coatings and layers of paint on car body parts, reducing corrosion. The device takes five seconds to work and is safer than alternative methods, making it suitable for the steel and aluminum industries.
Researchers are developing a non-destructive testing technique that can detect cracks in materials and welds under extreme conditions. This technology is being adapted for use in space to test the International Space Station and other structures, reducing the need for costly repairs.
Research at Cambridge and Oxford universities is using magnetic forces to levitate, stir and dam molten metal, reducing pollution and increasing efficiency. New devices are producing high-quality sheet metal with reduced edges and improved aluminum smelting costs.
A new technique allows researchers to design materials with specific grain boundary structures, giving 'smart' characteristics. This could enable the creation of self-regulating superconductors that can switch off during power surges, improving chip quality and lifespan.
Researchers have developed a new 'self-strengthening' plastic that can be used to make car body panels. The process uses threads of polypropylene to create a rigid sheet with strength similar to composite materials.
Scientists can now examine a material's surface using specially constructed probes, identifying contaminants and component parts. The probes also measure thermal properties, conductivity, and topography to provide insights into material behavior.
The new Plasma Atomisation Technology (PAT) process creates spherical titanium powders for coatings on implants, encouraging natural bone growth. The technique also allows for thin films and intricate components in pacemakers, resulting in high-quality products with reduced contaminants.
Golfers can expect to hit longer shots and experience a softer yet solid feel with the new Liquidmetal alloy, absorbing less energy than conventional materials. This high-performance material is also attractive for replacing traditional metals in sporting goods and aerospace products.
A new process called Continuous Rotary Extrusion (CRE) can produce high-quality copper from scrap electrical cable at a lower cost and with minimal environmental impact. The recycling centers can be based in compact light industry plants, reducing staff requirements and operating costs.