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Hybrid ‘super foam’: tunable, lightweight and ultra-durable

Researchers at Texas A&M University and DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory developed a hybrid foam with a 3D-printed plastic skeleton, offering tunable, lightweight and ultra-durable properties. The composite combines ordinary foam with plastic struts, allowing it to absorb more energy and withstand greater forces.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalComposite Structures·DateMar 6, 2026

Lower music volume levels in fitness class and perceived exercise intensity

A comparative effectiveness study found that lower music volume levels in group fitness classes did not significantly impact perceived exercise intensity. The research suggests implementing safer sound practices and increased awareness on hearing protection to minimize the risk of noise-induced hearing loss.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Otolaryngology–Head & Neck Surgery·DateMar 5, 2026
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Transforming acoustic waves with a chip

Researchers have developed a new acoustic wave-producing technology on an electronic chip, enabling customizable curved waves for trapping objects, routing wave information, and transporting fluids. This innovation has significant potential in medical applications, such as noninvasive surgery and biosensors.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 8, 2025

Seven-octave ultrabroadband metamaterial absorbers

Researchers have developed a metamaterial absorber spanning seven octaves that demonstrates an average absorption coefficient of 0.944, covering the entire audible spectrum. The absorber's compact profile and ultrabroadband performance show promising applications in aerospace noise reduction and precision acoustic environment control.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 6, 2025

Sound insulation tiles at school help calm crying children #ASA188

A study conducted at a Japanese school found that classrooms with sound-absorbing materials experienced reduced crying rates among young children, who were able to communicate more clearly. The research aimed to raise awareness about the importance of acoustics in educational settings and inspire regulations.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 23, 2025
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Reducing underwater noise when installing subsea structures #ASA188

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a metamaterial that can significantly reduce underwater noise generated by offshore wind farm installation. The technology, which uses carefully arranged plates to trap air and guide sound, achieves a 40-decibel reduction in noise levels.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 20, 2025
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Making every hair appointment a sound experience #ASA186

Acoustic experts reduce noise levels in a high-end salon, improving conversation ease and protecting employees' hearing. The successful solution can be applied to other salons, restaurants, stores, and conference centers to enhance clear communication and occupational safety.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateMay 14, 2024

Advanced noise suppression technology for improved search and rescue drones

A novel AI-based noise suppression system has been developed to improve the effectiveness of search and rescue drones during natural disasters. The system uses Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) to accurately learn UAV propeller sound data and eliminate noise, allowing operators to clearly hear and recognize human sounds.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalIEEE Transactions on Services Computing·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 6, 2024

Taming noise behind bars #Acoustics23

The article discusses the importance of acoustic design in prison environments, where constant noise is harmful to both prisoners and staff. By incorporating speech intelligibility, strategic noise reduction, and privacy considerations, acoustic design can improve communication dynamics and alleviate negative social interactions.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 5, 2023

New technique in error-prone quantum computing makes classical computers sweat

Researchers developed a new technique called zero noise extrapolation (ZNE) that allows noisy quantum computers to produce accurate results for specific calculations. This breakthrough could enable the use of quantum computing for cutting-edge physics problems and improve classical algorithms.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 14, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Actively reducing noise by ionizing air

EPFL scientists develop a novel concept, called the active 'plasmacoustic metalayer', which can be controlled to cancel out noise. The device is more compact than conventional solutions, absorbing 100% of incoming sound intensity and offering tunable acoustic reflection over a broad bandwidth.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 31, 2023

Even weak traffic noise has a negative impact on work performance

A laboratory study found that exposure to background traffic noise, even at 40 dB, significantly impairs concentration and perceived workload. Researchers also highlight the difficulties in avoiding high-frequency noise indoors due to reduced vehicle speeds.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2023

Exposure to airplane noise increases risk of sleeping fewer than 7 hours per night

A new study found that people exposed to moderate aircraft noise were less likely to get the minimum recommended sleep each night. The risk increased among those living near airports or large water bodies, as well as those with no hearing loss. Exposure levels as low as 45 dB were associated with short sleep duration.

SourceBoston University School of Public Health·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·TypeObservational study·DateMay 1, 2023

Propeller advance paves way for quiet, efficient electric aviation

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a propeller design optimisation method that paves the way for quiet, efficient electric aviation. The new design can reduce noise emissions by up to 5-8 dBA, comparable to going from a normal conversation voice to a quiet room.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalAerospace·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 14, 2023

On the way to smart hearing aids

The Collaborative Research Centre Hearing Acoustics is developing smart hearing aids that use artificial intelligence to adjust to different environments. The project, which aims to create more adaptable hearing devices, has received $8.1 million in funding for another four years.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·DateMay 27, 2022
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Owl wing design reduces aircraft, wind turbine noise pollution

Researchers used owl wing characteristics to inform airfoil designs and significantly reduce trailing-edge noise in aeronautical and turbine engines. The study found that asymmetric serrations reduced noise more than their symmetric counterparts.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJan 18, 2022

Sounding off on Seattle Space Needle renovation #ASA181

The Seattle Space Needle renovation incorporated acoustic designs to limit sound transmission, enhancing visitor experience. Acoustic materials and effective reverberant sound control were selected for the observation levels and restaurant.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 2, 2021
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Binding together repelling atoms

Theoretical predictions show that controlled noise from an environment can bind repelling atoms together, creating a bound state with exotic properties. This novel mechanism could lead to improved cooling of atomic quantum gases.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 31, 2013

If it rolls or flies, UC research is working to keep it quiet

Researchers at the University of Cincinnati are working to reduce noise in sophisticated military aircraft and quieter car rides. They have developed mathematical models for quick-response noise cancellation and clusters of harmonic responses to minimize sudden road noises.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·DateAug 14, 2012

Dr. Marahelli G. Prasad of Stevens receives ASME award

Dr. Prasad received the ASME Student Section Advisor Award for District A for his dedication to student achievement and education. His contributions have inspired students to become leaders in mechanical engineering, leading to numerous ASME award wins.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·DateJun 13, 2011
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Noise research to combat 'wind turbine syndrome'

Acoustics researchers at the University of Adelaide are developing a computer model to predict wind farm noise output, aiming to reduce 'wind turbine syndrome'. The team hopes to control noise through blade shape changes and active devices, improving wind energy efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·DateMay 31, 2011