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University of Pittsburgh


Distilling a solution for fracking wastewater

Researchers at University of Pittsburgh's Swanson School of Engineering have developed a new method to treat hydrofracturing wastewater by leveraging waste heat from drilling sites. The membrane distillation technology reduces the need for fresh water and produces high-quality water suitable for agriculture, industry, and other uses.

Stepping toward a smaller carbon footprint

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a new MOF that can selectively react with hydrogen molecules over carbon dioxide, allowing for efficient removal of CO2 from the atmosphere. This breakthrough technology has the potential to reduce net CO2 emissions and create valuable chemicals and fuels.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalCatalysis Science & Technology·DateOct 3, 2018

Computing catalysts

A collaboration between University of Pittsburgh and Lubrizol Corporation has revealed the molecular reaction mechanism of PIB polymer. The team found that a 'superacid' catalyst is required for initiation, which could lead to designing different catalysts and controlling the reaction.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalACS Catalysis·DateAug 23, 2018

Calculating a new design

A research collaboration led by Pittsburgh University's Swanson School of Engineering received a $750,000 Department of Energy grant to develop innovative technologies for fossil energy power systems. The team will utilize additive manufacturing and integrated computational materials engineering to design superior alloy components.

Manufacturing engineer Mostafa Bedewy lands $330,000 National Science Foundation grant to study 'nanotube forests'

Dr. Bedewy will explore the kinetics of activation and deactivation in large populations of carbon nanotubes known as 'nanotube forests' using experimental and modeling techniques. The research aims to gain a fundamental understanding of how these forest structures behave collectively, impacting their properties for emerging applications.

If only A.I. had a brain

Researchers developed an artificial synapse inspired by the human brain, which efficiently processes information and demonstrates excellent energy efficiency. This breakthrough could lead to the development of energy-efficient neuromorphic computing, revolutionizing AI devices and transforming industries.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 23, 2018

A structured solution

The University of Pittsburgh's Swanson School of Engineering is leading a $1 million project to advance design and manufacture of nuclear plant components via 3D printing. The team aims to develop innovative dissolvable supports, topology optimization, and microstructure design to reduce costs and improve structural integrity.

A reimagined future for sustainable nanomaterials

Researchers have created a database to screen for environmentally sustainable nanomaterials, allowing designers to weigh performance characteristics like toxicity and antimicrobial activity before developing products. The tool aims to reduce unintended consequences and promote sustainable nanotechnologies.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateMay 1, 2018

Mining the data

The fifth Act 54 five-year report assesses the impact of long-wall, room-and-pillar, and retreat mining methods on surface structures and water resources. The study provides vital information for environmental remediation and restoration efforts in Pennsylvania.

Using ultrasound to help people walk again

A researcher at the University of Pittsburgh is using ultrasound imaging to develop a more precise interface between exoskeletons and individual muscles in people with incomplete spinal cord injuries. This technology aims to provide more efficient rehabilitation tools, reducing the risk of falls during robot-assisted walking.

The final frontier's final frontier

A team of researchers from the University of Pittsburgh's NSF Center for Space, High-performance, and Resilient Computing has developed a radiation-resistant computer capable of high-performance computing in space. The system will be launched on the International Space Station and is nearly three times more powerful than its predecessor.

Data-driven shale dialogue

Researchers studying water quality around hydraulic fracturing found a blueprint for moving conversations forward through publicly available data and collaboration. The Shale Network has fostered dialogue among diverse stakeholders, including citizens, watershed groups, and energy companies.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScience·DateFeb 6, 2018

Building a more flexible plastic

Researchers from the University of Pittsburgh's Swanson School of Engineering have developed a novel solution to prevent plastic waste. They propose using nano-engineering to create a recyclable material that can replace complex multi-layered packaging, mimicking nature's use of few molecular building blocks.

Uncovering the power of glial cells

Researchers have found that brain implants can function with the help of glial cells, which are often overlooked as a potential target for treatment. The study suggests that glial cells play a critical role in maintaining optimal brain activity and suggest targeting them may improve current treatments for neurological diseases.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateJan 8, 2018

Cool your airfoils

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are developing advanced strategies to reduce the adverse effects of extremely high-temperatures on gas turbines. They are exploring applications for an anti-oxidation coating that can help cool airfoils and other hot-section components, enabling higher temperature operation for better efficie...

An engineer's guide to the embryo

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are studying the mechanics of morphogenesis in frog embryos to better understand human development, birth defects, and cancer. By applying structural analysis principles, they aim to develop a tool that provides bioengineers with greater control over tissue self-assembly.

A sticky situation

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a new approach to reduce adhesion in small parts, which is expected to improve next-generation microdevices. The study uses nanomaterials to create rough surfaces that prevent tiny objects from sticking together.

Blast off!

The University of Pittsburgh has established a new NSF-funded research center, SHREC, to focus on mission-critical computing in space, high-performance computing, and resilient computing. The center aims to bring in $1 million in annual external funding and collaborate with industry partners.

In search of a greener cleaner

The Pitt research team is developing a new approach using machine learning and quantum chemistry calculations to predict effective and degradable chelating agent candidates. This project aims to improve the sustainability of industries such as detergent manufacturing, heavy metal treatment, and waste remediation.