Australian engineers have created a strong and lightweight titanium material that floats in water, even after severe damage, revealing a promising new material for marine infrastructure. The 3D-printed titanium lattice is 70% stronger than stainless steel and withholds seawater exposure, making it suitable for jetties, buoys, and float...
A new study found that 72% of Australian women wear a different size under US sizing and 65% under EU sizing. The researchers suggest that some women may be compensating for shoes that don't accommodate their foot width. The study highlights the need for more inclusive footwear sizing systems and clearer sizing information.
A world-first trial of floating wetland pods in wastewater lagoons shows significant greenhouse gas emissions reductions, with CO₂ emissions dropping by up to 36% and methane by up to 66%. The technology has potential to transform wastewater treatment into a climate solution.
A new magnetic water treatment material has been developed that can remove both micro- and nano-plastics as well as some PFAS compounds from wastewater. The material is designed to work quickly and was shown to be effective in removing over 95% of microplastics, including particles as small as 30 nanometres.
RMIT researchers have demonstrated a new way to increase green hydrogen production using low-cost materials, improving efficiency by over 80 times. The approach uses titanium dioxide and nickel to capture light energy and produce hydrogen more effectively, paving the way for cheaper clean fuel.
A new study at RMIT University has identified conditions that help protect mRNA particles in dry vaccine patches, providing practical guidance for future patch design. This research could make future mRNA vaccines easier to store and distribute, particularly in lower-resource settings where cold-chain logistics are a barrier.
Researchers at RMIT University have developed a new method for removing microplastics from wastewater, achieving removal rates of more than 90% through the use of microbubbles and nanobubbles. The approach is simple to implement and significantly increases plastic removal during primary treatment.
A bio-inspired robotic bird is helping researchers unravel the mysteries behind kestrels' exceptional hovering capabilities. By mimicking key movements, the team discovered unique techniques that could improve manoeuvrability of small aircraft and enhance their ability to cope with turbulence.
The RMIT Food Innovation Hub will bring together food technology and nutrition expertise to address industry challenges and support sustainable innovation. The Hub aims to create knowledge, build future workforce skills, and translate research into practical applications for the Australian food system.
Researchers have developed a new chip that can analyze light on the spot, detecting subtle differences in materials and environments. This technology has the potential to support real-world applications without bulky external equipment.
Researchers are developing innovative approaches to identify markers of autism in children born before 37 weeks of gestation. The project aims to create an AI-enabled digital twin for autism diagnosis, providing personalized support and treatment plans for affected children.
A review of food waste in Australia's quick service restaurants found order mistakes as the biggest driver of waste, with better staff training crucial for reduction. The study recommends ongoing training and making food waste metrics part of performance evaluations to mitigate back-of-house food waste.
A new preclinical study reveals that an overactive viral sensor in the immune system can cause severe complications during flu infection in pregnancy. By blocking this sensor, researchers hope to prevent harmful inflammation and protect developing babies.
RMIT University researchers developed a new method to coat fragile surfaces with a fine mist that acts as a UV shield, allowing normal plant function. The coating absorbs harmful UV light while permitting visible light through, enabling plants to continue photosynthesis.
Researchers at RMIT University have discovered that eucalyptus bark can be converted into a highly porous form of carbon that traps pollutants, providing a practical solution to clean polluted water and air. The findings highlight the potential of turning waste materials into useful environmental resources.
Australian scientists have developed an injectable therapy called Snoretox-1 to help clear blocked airways in flat-faced dogs suffering from brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS). The treatment shows early success in improving breathing difficulties in bulldogs.
Researchers developed a thin plastic film with ultra-fine structures that tear apart viruses on contact, killing them through mechanical force. The film offers a scalable and practical alternative to existing antiviral coatings.
Researchers have developed a rapid colour-changing test to distinguish between different strains of golden staph, including those likely to be virulent and antibiotic resistant. The test uses nanozymes and short DNA molecular binders to create unique 'fingerprints' that can help separate high-risk strains from others.
Researchers at RMIT University developed a smart bandage that monitors wound infections and delivers healing therapeutics in one simple dressing. The dressing uses carbon dots to sense pH changes in the wound and combat inflammation, allowing for real-time monitoring and treatment.
Engineers at RMIT University developed a remote-controlled minibot to collect oil spills using a filtering system inspired by sea urchins. The 'Electronic Dolphin' can skim slicks and collect oil with high efficiency, offering a safer and more targeted way to respond to spills in sensitive environments.
A coalition of experts warns that carbon markets may be penalizing First Nations' long-term stewardship due to their 'additionality' requirements. The definition of 'additionality' often rewards restoration on degraded land, excluding protected ecosystems and traditional owners' custodianship.
Researchers at RMIT University have developed a flexible nylon-film device that generates electricity from compression and can withstand extreme forces. The breakthrough could provide a durable alternative material for piezo components in vehicles and support new technologies for traffic-management sensing on roads.
A study by RMIT University found that an Australian desert plant, Old Man Saltbush, has nearly ideal amino acid requirements for human nutrition, making it a potential high-quality plant-derived protein option. The plant was also rich in minerals and improved the nutritional value of wheat pasta when added to it.
Researchers have explored how human mesenchymal stem cells can help repair brain injury in children born preterm. The PREMSTEM project has investigated the use of h-MSCs to address brain injury caused by early-life birth, with promising results showing a positive impact on brain damage and inflammation.
A new study by RMIT University found that protections in place in Europe can help phase out harmful electricity disconnections without destabilizing power markets. The research highlights the need for evidence-led action to extend disconnection prohibitions and strengthen safeguards for vulnerable consumers.
A review of 300 peer-reviewed studies found roadkill being used to map species distributions, monitor disease and environmental pollution, study diets, track invasive species, supply museum collections, and discover new species. This approach offers ethical advantages by avoiding live capture and handling.
A study from RMIT University found that most Australians who have 5G are content with it, but few actively seek it out or plan to switch in the short term. The survey of 2,112 people revealed that 5G is quietly spreading through routine phone upgrades rather than big consumer shifts.
A new study highlights the importance of protecting coastal ecosystems while building long-term environmental and cultural knowledge. The research, co-designed by Indigenous leadership and RMIT University scientists, found that a mangrove forest on the Barron River estuary stores over 2,000 tonnes of carbon annually.
Researchers at RMIT University have discovered that living stem cells physically respond to external signals in real time, reshaping themselves within minutes. This breakthrough could lead to improved ways of creating new tissues, organs, nerves, and bones by guiding cell behavior through subtle electrical changes.
The Mapping the Digital Gap report found that three in four First Nations people living in remote communities are digitally excluded, facing barriers to accessing and using online services. Despite an 8.7 point improvement in digital ability for First Nations people in very remote communities, the gap remains significant.
Researchers at RMIT University have created nanodots made from molybdenum oxide that can selectively kill cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed. The particles release reactive oxygen molecules that trigger cell death, offering a new strategy for designing targeted cancer treatments.
Australian scientists have developed a new blood test that can identify women with ovarian cancer more likely to benefit from PARP inhibitor therapy, offering hope for more effective treatment. The test measures immune biomarkers and predicts which patients will respond to treatment.
GenAI use is narrowing the digital divide in Australia, but significant gaps persist among remote and socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. The study found that Australians aged 18-34, Indigenous peoples, and those with lower digital skills are more likely to use GenAI.
The new ultra-thin filters created by RMIT University researchers combine boron nitride with synthetic fibres to create a flexible but robust filter that can withstand high pressure. The innovation has the potential to improve chemical manufacturing and recycling processes, making them more sustainable.
Lowering residential speed limits to 30kph significantly boosts bicycle riding safety without affecting car trip times, according to a study. The reduction in traffic stress leads to more people choosing bikes as a safe mode of transport.
A simple blood test is being developed to detect acute kidney injury hours faster, allowing for earlier intervention and better management of chronic kidney disease. The test uses patented DNA aptamers to directly investigate structural kidney damage.
A world-first study has proven microbes essential for human health can survive the extreme forces of space launch. The spores of Bacilus subtilis bacteria were launched high into the sky and found to withstand rapid acceleration, microgravity, and rapid deceleration.
Researchers at RMIT University have created a 3D-printed diamond–titanium device that can harvest energy from flowing liquid and receive wireless power, paving the way for smarter, safer implants. The innovation combines semiconductive diamonds with metallic titanium to create a structure that is both lightweight and electrically active.
A new eyedrop formula has shown promising results in delivering lutein, a protective antioxidant compound, to the retina to support retinal health and potentially slow or prevent damage. The formula uses nanotechnology called cubosomes to deliver drugs and has the potential to transform how we manage age-related macular degeneration.
Engineers at RMIT University have developed cardboard-confined rammed earth, a novel building material that uses locally sourced materials and reduces waste going to landfill. The material boasts one quarter of the carbon footprint of concrete and can be made on-site using cardboard formwork.
A new report from RMIT University and the University of Canberra proposes that local news organisations must adapt to their audiences' shifting news habits. The report recommends embracing community-driven content, including hyperlocal news, human-interest stories, and practical information.
Researchers from RMIT University have developed a new wastewater treatment system that targets all fat types, including hard-to-remove emulsified fats, and achieves up to 98% fat removal rates in commercial kitchen wastewater. The system combines a redesigned grease interceptor with smart chemical treatment.
The device monitors healing remotely, reducing the need for frequent physical contact and minimizing infection risks. It uses integrated sensors to track key healing indicators, including inflammation, pH, and temperature levels.
Engineers at RMIT University have developed a new low-cost approach to creating 3D-printed titanium alloys, which are about a third cheaper than standard alloys. The new alloy has improved strength and performance compared to traditional 3D-printed titanium alloys.
Researchers at RMIT University have developed an innovative method to harness wastewater's high contaminant load to produce green hydrogen. The process uses metals from wastewater to enhance hydrogen production and reduce the need for purified water or additional steps.
A new study found that restored floodplain wetlands can recover within a year and show substantial ecosystem benefits rapidly. The study revealed that managing freshwater wetlands for carbon benefits also boosts flood and drought resilience.
Researchers have successfully extended the lifetime of quantum batteries by 1,000 times, outperforming previous demonstrations. The new method uses molecular triplets to store energy more efficiently, paving the way for improved designs.
A new study led by RMIT University found that restoring southern Australian reefs from urchin barrens is feasible and beneficial for improved water quality, fisheries, and carbon sequestration. Economic modelling showed an AU$50 million investment would return up to AU$92 million in economic benefits.
The WUI-NITY simulator, developed by a global collaboration of researchers, visualises bushfire spread and people movement to calculate evacuation times. It has been validated in large-scale community evacuation drills and is freely available online for use by authorities and researchers.
Australians waste 7.6 million tonnes of food annually, with poor label design and inconsistent packaging being key reasons for this problem. Clearer date labels and storage advice could drastically reduce edible food waste.