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Complex geology contributed to Deepwater Horizon disaster, new study finds

A new study from the University of Texas at Austin examines the role of geologic conditions in the 2010 Deepwater Horizon disaster. The research, published in Scientific Reports, reveals a significant drop in pore pressure near the bottom of the well, leading to a controversial cement decision that contributed to the blowout.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 7, 2019
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

New global task force report questions effectiveness of spinal fusion procedures, provides recommendations

A new report from a global task force of bone health experts suggests that surgical procedures for spinal fractures may not be effective in reducing pain or improving quality of life. The report recommends against the use of vertebroplasty and balloon kyphoplasty, citing a lack of evidence supporting their benefits.

SourceBurness·JournalJournal of Bone and Mineral Research·DateJan 24, 2019
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.

Spheres can make concrete leaner, greener

Researchers create spheres that can be made at low cost and promise to mitigate the energy-intensive techniques now used to make cement. The spheres are suitable for various applications, including bone-tissue engineering, insulation, ceramic, and composite materials.

SourceRice University·JournalLangmuir·DateSep 26, 2018

Reliability, learnability and efficiency of two tools for cement crowns retrieval

This research article assesses two tools for cement crown retrieval, finding that the automatic tool improves reliability and efficiency. The study also reveals a significant difference in force patterns between the tools, with the compressed air-powered instrument producing sharper peak forces.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Biomedical Engineering Journal·DateAug 21, 2018

Magnetic surgical cement heals spinal fractures, provides targeted drug delivery

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago developed a magnetic surgical cement that can guide nanoparticles to lesions near spinal fractures, providing targeted drug delivery. The technology has the potential to become a surgical option for patients with primary spinal column tumors or metastasizing tumors.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJul 27, 2018
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.

Antibacterial glass ionomer cement with chlorhexidine-encapsulated mesoporous silica

Researchers developed a novel antibacterial glass ionomer cement with chlorhexidine-encapsulated mesoporous silica, which significantly enhances anti-biofilm ability and maintains mechanical properties. The study proposes a new strategy for preventing secondary caries by using this modified GIC.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·JournalJournal of Dental Research·DateJul 25, 2018

WSU researchers use coal waste to create sustainable concrete

Researchers at Washington State University have developed a strong, durable concrete that uses fly ash as a binder and eliminates the use of environmentally intensive cement. This new concrete reduces energy demand and greenhouse emissions by utilizing coal waste and significantly lowering its environmental impact.

SourceWashington State University·JournalFuel·DateJul 12, 2018

Research on cancer-frying nanoparticles heats up

Scientists at the University at Buffalo have developed heated magnetic nanoparticles that can selectively target and destroy tumors with significant amounts of heat under low-magnetic fields. The new technology has potential benefits over other treatments, including minimal side effects and deeper penetration into hard-to-reach body pa...

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalSmall·DateJun 26, 2018

Cementless fly ash binder makes concrete 'green'

Researchers create environmentally friendly composite binder using fly ash, reducing carbon dioxide emissions and the need for sodium-based activators. The new binder replaces Portland cement in concrete production with minimal impact on compressive strength.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the American Ceramic Society·DateJun 18, 2018

It all comes down to roughness

The study shows that using rough particles can significantly reduce the amount of material needed to achieve sudden solidification in suspensions. This could lead to improved cement flow characteristics and potential applications in everyday materials like bullet-proof vests.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 2, 2018
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Cities of the future may be built with locally available volcanic ash

Researchers found that adding volcanic ash to traditional cement reduces the overall energy needed to manufacture concrete, with a 16% decrease in energy required. The optimal particle size of volcanic ash affects the strength and energy efficiency of the concrete.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateFeb 7, 2018

Weak hydrogen bonds key to strong, tough infrastructure

Researchers discovered that a specific mix of hydrogen bonds is critical to making strong and ductile infrastructure materials. The optimal overlap of oxygen and hydrogen atoms forms a network of weak hydrogen bonds that connects soft and hard layers.

SourceRice University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJan 29, 2018

National Academies' Gulf Research Program awards $10.8 million to address risk in offshore oil and gas operations

The Gulf Research Program aims to develop new technologies to improve understanding and management of systemic risk in offshore oil and gas operations. The program focuses on addressing the risks associated with hydrocarbon releases, which pose threats to human health, safety, environment, and infrastructure.

SourceNational Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine·DateDec 7, 2017

Nature's blueprint

Scientists at the University of Konstanz have created a more durable cement based on the nanostructure of sea urchin spines, which is significantly more resistant to fractures. The new material's elastic properties are comparable to those of mussel shells and reach values of up to 200 megapascals.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalScience Advances·DateNov 29, 2017
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.

MIT students fortify concrete by adding recycled plastic

By exposing plastic flakes to gamma radiation, researchers can create stronger, more flexible concrete structures. This innovative approach could reduce cement industry's carbon footprint and divert plastic waste from landfills.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalWaste Management·DateOct 25, 2017

Technique offers advance in testing micro-scale compressive strength of cement

Researchers from North Carolina State University have developed a micropillar compression technique to characterize the micro-scale strength of cement, allowing for the development of stronger, more sustainable materials. The study provides precise measures of calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) compressive strength in cement mixtures.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Nanomechanics and Micromechanics·DateOct 25, 2017

Corrosion in real time

Researchers used the Surface Forces Apparatus to investigate crevice and pitting corrosion in confined spaces. They observed intense local corrosion resulting in sudden pit formation, highlighting the complexity of the process and its dependence on electric potential difference.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 14, 2017
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.

Here's a tip: Indented cement shows unique properties

Rice University scientists found that indented tobermorite responds differently than bulk material, with layers bonding through indentation remaining intact after force removal. The study reveals three molecular mechanisms at work in tobermorite, which are also responsible for the strength of calcium-silicate-hydrate mix in cement.

SourceRice University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 19, 2017

New studies of ancient concrete could teach us to do as the Romans did

Researchers studied 2,000-year-old Roman concrete using X-rays and electron microscopy, discovering a natural chemistry that strengthens the material over time. The findings suggest a recipe for modern concrete with less environmental impact could be inspired by the ancient Romans' use of volcanic ash, lime, and seawater.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalAmerican Mineralogist·DateJul 3, 2017

How seawater strengthens ancient Roman concrete

Researchers found that seawater's interaction with Roman concrete leads to the growth of rare minerals, increasing its cohesion and strength. The unique pozzolanic reaction and interlocking mineral crystals provide a system contrary to modern cement-based concrete.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalAmerican Mineralogist·DateJul 3, 2017

Not all cool pavements are created equal

A new research from Berkeley Lab found that the choice of pavement material can significantly impact carbon emissions. The study's decision tool helps cities understand the trade-offs of cool pavements and their potential environmental consequences. Cities may need to reconsider their cool pavement strategies, as the benefits may not o...

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalEnergy and Buildings·DateMay 17, 2017
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Rocks that tell our industrial history

Scientists have discovered beachrocks along the Biscay coast with records of human activity, including industrial waste, trapped within their matrix. This finding provides evidence for the Anthropocene epoch and offers valuable insights into climate change.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalThe Science of The Total Environment·DateMar 27, 2017

Rice U probes ways to turn cement's weakness to strength

Researchers at Rice University have made breakthroughs in understanding how concrete responds to stress at the atomic level. By studying the internal structure of tobermorite, they found that defects can lead to increased strength and toughness by allowing layers to glide past each other.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 3, 2017

Decoding cement's shape promises greener concrete

Rice University scientists have decoded the kinetic properties of cement and developed a way to 'program' microscopic particles to create less porous and more durable material. This technique may lead to stronger structures that require less concrete, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateDec 7, 2016
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Cement materials are an overlooked and substantial carbon 'sink'

A new study reveals that cement materials absorb approximately one billion tons of atmospheric CO2 each year, offsetting 43% of CO2 emissions from cement production. The researchers found that mortar cement captured the most carbon, with concrete cement being the second largest contributor.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 21, 2016

Concrete jungle functions as carbon sink, UCI and other researchers find

Researchers found that cement manufacturing emits significant CO2, but also gradually reabsorbs it through a process called carbonation, reducing its overall impact on climate change. Over 76 billion tons of cement were produced between 1930 and 2013, with an estimated 38.2 gigatons of CO2 released.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature Geoscience·DateNov 21, 2016
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Nothing -- and something -- give concrete strength, toughness

Researchers found that cracks tend to follow the path of least resistance and turn towards voids or portlandite particles, sapping energy from them. This interaction regulates competing deformation mechanisms, leading to increased strength and toughness.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the Mechanics and Physics of Solids·DateAug 8, 2016

Finding a new formula for concrete

Researchers at MIT have designed a new bioinspired framework to improve concrete's strength and durability. By studying natural materials such as bones and shells, they have developed guidelines for engineers to design cement with precise control over its internal structure and properties.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalConstruction and Building Materials·DateMay 26, 2016

Study establishes lung health response to cement dust exposure

A new study establishes a link between long-term cement dust exposure and decline in lung volumes. The research found that workers exposed to higher levels of dust experienced significant decreases in lung function over time.

SourceEuropean Respiratory Society·JournalEuropean Respiratory Journal·DateApr 20, 2016
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.

Brittle is better for making cement

Rice University scientists have discovered that certain types of tricalcium silicates are more efficient to produce cement due to their structural properties. These findings could lead to lower energy consumption and reduced greenhouse gas emissions associated with concrete production, a major contributor to climate change.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the American Ceramic Society·DateApr 11, 2016

UK science leads the way in nuclear research

Scientists at Diamond Light Source are pioneering research to make the nuclear fuel cycle safer, more efficient, and straightforward. They're developing new cement materials that can effectively contain radioactive waste for thousands of years.

SourceDiamond Light Source·DateFeb 13, 2016

It takes more than a village to build a house

The article highlights the African housing shortage, particularly for low-income families, and explores the challenges posed by inadequate housing. Experts suggest that a combination of local materials and innovative building methods, such as interlocking bricks, could provide affordable solutions.

SourcePenn State·DateFeb 12, 2016
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

The indications of a new geological epoch marked by human impact are clear

An international geoscientific group proposes the recognition of a new geological epoch, the Anthropocene, marked by rapid environmental changes caused by human activities. The study finds that human impacts are recorded in geological strata as quantifiable signs, distinguishing it from the relatively stable Holocene epoch.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalScience·DateJan 20, 2016

New research could help build better fighter planes and space shuttles

Researchers at Binghamton University have discovered a material with superior mechanical properties that could be used in fighter planes and spacecraft. The boron nitride nanotubes exhibit stronger interfaces with polymers, enabling the creation of lighter yet more fuel-efficient aircraft and space shuttles.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJan 4, 2016

Watching cement dry could help dental fillings last longer

Researchers have identified 'sweet points' in dental cement where it regains elasticity before hardening, allowing for longer-lasting fillings. This breakthrough could lead to better applications of fillings and easier treatment options for patients.

SourceQueen Mary University of London·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

How are ordinary consumers transforming the fashion business?

Consumers are curating looks and creating images on outfit sharing websites, fueling popular fashion bloggers and a new logic of accessibility. This shift has changed market-level changes in institutional work, categories of actors, and underlying logics.

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateMar 31, 2015

New research into materials for tooth fillings

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have developed a new glass ionomer cement for tooth fillings that is mercury-free and offers improved durability. The material has good biological properties and releases fluoride to prevent cavities, making it a promising alternative to existing composite filling materials.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 10, 2015

Researchers identify process for improving durability of glass

Researchers at UCLA and Université Pierre et Marie Curie identified a method for manufacturing more durable glass that resists temperature variations and aging. This breakthrough could result in stronger materials for various applications, including display screens, fiber optic cables, windows, and cement.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2015

Crush those clinkers while they're hot

Researchers at Rice University found that optimizing the process of turning clinkers into cement can save a significant amount of energy and reduce carbon dioxide emissions. By analyzing the crystal and atomic structures of clinkers, they identified areas where defects and internal stresses affect the grinding process.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 13, 2015
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Back to future with Roman architectural concrete

Researchers at Berkeley Lab discover that Roman volcanic ash-lime mortar binds fragments with a durable calcium-alumino-silicate mineral, preventing microcracks from propagating and preserving cohesion. This finding has significant environmental advantages over modern Portland cement-based concretes.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 15, 2014

How to make stronger, 'greener' cement

A new study suggests a way to reduce cement's greenhouse-gas output by more than half, resulting in stronger and more durable concrete. By adjusting the calcium-to-silica ratio, the material can achieve twice the resistance of normal cement, with significant reductions in carbon emissions.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 25, 2014

A new, greener cement to meet future demand

EPFL-led consortium develops new cement blend that substitutes up to half of Portland cement, promising to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 40%. The new blend, called LC3, is stronger and more robust than traditional cement, thanks to synergistic chemistry between calcined clay and ground limestone.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·DateJun 3, 2014

Researchers develop a novel antibacterial orthodontic bracket cement

A new antibacterial orthodontic cement containing dimethylaminododecyl methacrylate (DMADDM) inhibits biofilm formation and reduces lactic acid production. The results show that the DMADDM-containing cement is promising for reducing demineralization in enamel around orthodontic brackets.

SourceInternational Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research·DateMar 21, 2014
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Environmentally friendly cement is stronger than ordinary cement

Researchers from the Niels Bohr Institute found that adding sugar cane ash to cement makes it stronger, more durable and crumbles less. The ash helps bind water in the cement, saving energy and reducing pollution from cement production.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Niels Bohr Institute·JournalScientific Reports·DateSep 16, 2013

Old concrete can protect nature

Researchers from the University of Southern Denmark have discovered that crushed concrete can bind up to 90% of phosphorus, a key contributor to algae growth. The technique uses crushed concrete as a filter to remove excess phosphorus from rainwater, reducing its impact on water quality and aquatic life.

SourceUniversity of Southern Denmark·JournalJournal of Environmental Quality·DateAug 22, 2013

Roman seawater concrete holds the secret to cutting carbon emissions

Researchers have discovered properties that made ancient Roman concrete sustainable and durable, with potential applications for environmentally friendly modern concretes. The Roman recipe needed less than 10% lime by weight, making it at two-thirds or less the temperature required by Portland cement.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Ceramic Society·DateJun 4, 2013

To improve today's concrete, do as the Romans did

Researchers from the University of California, Berkeley, have found inspiration in ancient Roman concrete to create more durable and sustainable modern concrete. The discovery could help reduce carbon emissions from cement production and improve the lifespan of structures in ocean environments.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalJournal of the American Ceramic Society·DateJun 4, 2013

The formula for turning cement into metal

Researchers from Argonne National Laboratory have created a semi-conductor material by turning liquid cement into liquid metal through electron trapping. This process creates metallic-glass material with positive attributes including conductivity, fluidity, and low energy loss.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 27, 2013
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.