Articles tagged with Construction Engineering
Researchers propose a fast and catalyst-free cross-linking strategy for constructing mechanically strengthened and biofunctional hydrogels. The new method uses o-phthalaldehyde (OPA) and N-nucleophiles to form stable linkages, reducing toxicity issues associated with traditional methods.
A study from Aarhus University links national productivity statistics with actual work done on construction sites, revealing a decline in productivity since the 1970s. By optimizing processes, contractors can generate an estimated $5.4 billion annually in the US and Canada by spending just 36 seconds more per hour on value-adding work.
The NSF's Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope has produced its first images, showcasing a pattern of turbulent plasma that covers the entire sun. This breakthrough will enable scientists to better understand space weather and its impacts on Earth.
A new study by Iowa State University researchers suggests that requiring landlords to disclose recent bedbug infestations can lead to a reduction in infestations and lower costs for both landlords and tenants. This policy can create long-term savings for landlords and make life better for people affected by these pests.
Researchers developed a model explaining how external environmental factors drive internal airflows in termite mounds, triggering building behavior and altering mound architecture. The model sheds light on swarm intelligence and may inspire designing more sustainable human structures.
Kathleen Smits' research aims to improve response to gas-emission incidents by predicting methane migration conditions and providing data-based guidelines for industry first responders. Her team's modeling has found that gas concentrations in the atmosphere are often small compared to the size of the leak, making detection methods flawed.
The ESA is backing the development of a new helicon plasma thruster technology that could revolutionize electric propulsion in space. The thruster, which has been tested at UC3M facilities, uses radiofrequency waves to generate hot plasma and accelerate it supersonically.
The James Webb Space Telescope boasts unparalleled capabilities, including a revolutionary lightweight carbon-composite material and exceptional load-bearing capability in extreme temperatures. Its advanced design enables it to unfold flawlessly by remote control and operate at extremely low temperatures.
The Facility for Laboratory Reconnection Experiment (FLARE) has successfully produced the first plasma, marking a significant milestone in research into magnetic reconnection. This process is crucial for understanding Northern Lights, solar eruptions, and geomagnetic storms.
UC San Francisco bioengineers develop a method to create complex tissue shapes, such as bowls and coils, by patterning cells on thin layers of extracellular matrix fibers. This approach mimics natural developmental processes and offers new insights into the fundamental biology of tissue assembly.
ASU and NYU researchers created an online module to enhance crowdsourced brainstorming, finding that embedding peripheral micro-tasks improves idea breadth and depth. The study suggests that ideators' productivity and time of ideation impact the effectiveness of these tasks.
The University of Miami announces the creation of the Frost Institutes for Science and Engineering, a global network focused on scientific discovery and innovation. The initiative aims to elevate STEM fields and attract top scientists to address pressing global issues.
Recent studies from the University of Missouri found that Diverging Diamond Interchanges decrease overall crashes by more than 50 percent nationwide. Additionally, fatal and injury crashes decreased by over 70 percent, proving these innovative designs are efficient, effective, and life-saving.
Paul D. Schomer, Owner and Principal of Schomer and Associates, has been recognized with the Acoustical Society of America (ASA) Distinguished Service Citation for his excellent service as Standards Director and leadership in developing acoustics standards. He was awarded the citation at the 170th meeting of the ASA on November 4, 2015.
Researchers found that designing wings with flexibility near the front and rigidity at the back maximizes thrust and performance. This approach generates 36% more thrust than constant flexibility throughout the wing.
UTEP has secured a $5 million contract with NASA to explore space safety through collaborations with faculty and students. The partnership will focus on human space exploration and provide hands-on experiences for students.
Researchers have developed a new design framework for powered lower-extremity exoskeletons, enabling highly customized designs with optimized performance and stability control. The custom-tailored exoskeletons aim to improve user comfort and safety while reducing development time and cost.
Nearly 40% of women engineers quit their jobs, citing poor workplace climates and mistreatment. Despite this, women who persisted showed no difference in confidence or skills. Organizations must recognize the importance of training, advancement, and work-life balance to retain female engineers.
Engineers at the University of Illinois and Northwestern University have developed thin, soft stick-on patches that incorporate commercial chip-based electronics for sophisticated wireless health monitoring. The patches are wirelessly powered and can send high-quality data about human body to a computer in real-time.
Denise R. Simmons, a Virginia Tech professor, received an NSF CAREER award to study factors influencing engineering students' co-curricular involvement and workforce entry. Her goal is to broaden participation in engineering degrees and increase the number of engineers entering the technological workforce.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a wearable helmet sensor that can detect the onset of carbon monoxide poisoning in construction workers with a probability of greater than 99%. The sensor uses pulse oximetry technology to monitor blood gas saturation levels, providing early warnings to prevent potential harm.
A new study by University of Missouri researcher Zhiqiang Hu has developed a cost-effective method for monitoring wetland health using microbial analysis. This approach can help identify healthy ecosystems and inform conservation efforts.
A new map created by Japanese researchers helps identify high-rise buildings in the Osaka Basin vulnerable to long-period strong ground motions that last minutes. The map provides useful information for engineers to design earthquake-resistant buildings.
San Diego State University has received a nearly $500,000 NSF grant to create a Science demilitarized zone (DMZ) for high-speed data exchange between the campus and national labs. The DMZ will enable researchers to generate and rapidly exchange large datasets, promoting new partnerships and mentorship opportunities.
The CINEMA CubeSat will monitor electrical currents in the atmosphere that can affect power grids. The satellite will also measure changes in Earth's magnetic field caused by magnetic storms.
The new titanium personnel sphere has been successfully tested to withstand the extreme pressures of 6500 meters, with sufficient data collected to support certification for human-occupied operations. The upgrade project is a significant step towards resuming ocean science missions with Alvin in the near future.
A UK research team is using a novel 'back-casting' approach to transform cities for healthier lives by creating visions of alternative urban futures with drastically reduced CO2 emissions. The study will develop realistic and radical engineering solutions to achieve these goals while ensuring social acceptance.
A new study by Canadian researchers aims to dispel the myth of Murphy's Law by showing that human error can be minimized through rigorous testing and analysis. By implementing checks and balances, industries can improve reliability and safety, reducing the likelihood of catastrophic failures.
To create sustainable engineers in the 21st century, educators and students must be aware of emerging fields and their global context. This includes developing business skills and understanding social and environmental implications.
Adrian Bejan's research reveals that the golden ratio is a fundamental principle in nature's design, guiding the flow of information from vision to cognition and locomotion. This concept, known as the constructal law, explains why the golden ratio appears in various natural systems, from animal vision to river deltas.
Researchers Norrmén et al identified Foxc2 and NFATc1 as key transcription factors in lymph vessel development. These factors work together to build lymph vessel valves, a critical aspect of the lymphatic drainage system.
The Synthetic Biology Project aims to minimize risks and maximize benefits through rigorous analysis and public engagement. The project explores governance options, examines public perceptions, and identifies knowledge gaps in synthetic biology.
The Large Hadron Collider has sent its first beam of protons around the world's most powerful particle accelerator at nearly the speed of light. Scientists believe this achievement could unlock extraordinary discoveries about the nature of the physical universe.
A Duke University engineer and colleague have applied the constructal theory to explain how trees are designed for water flow and wind resistance. The resulting patterns and proportions match those of the Eiffel Tower, highlighting the interconnectedness of nature's flow systems.
The NJIT team won the regional steel-bridge competition with a strategy of optimizing construction time and minimizing builders while reducing overall weight. This is their third consecutive win, and they will now compete at the national level on Memorial Day.
The University of Pittsburgh's Mascaro Sustainability Initiative has received a $506,000 grant to establish the Sustainable Engineering Fellowship Program. The program will engage diverse students in translating fundamental sustainability science into real products and processes.
Researchers at the University of Florida and two other universities have created a new type of foam-like film made from carbon nanotubes, which can be compressed to 15% of its original size. The films show promise for use in solid lubricating coatings for air and space applications.
Researchers at USC and UTexas will build a detector for single photon computers, which could perform certain tasks far faster than traditional chips. The project aims to create ultra-small devices that generate single photons, one at a time, using 'quantum dots' and nanoscale technology.
The University of Pittsburgh will train students in sustainable engineering through an eight-month international research rotation in São Paulo, Brazil. The program aims to develop global sustainability expertise and increase Hispanic students in the field of engineering.
Dr. Boswell is recognized for his achievements in civil and environmental engineering projects, including the Secaucus Interchange and Southern New Jersey Light Rail Transit System. He has also received numerous awards for his community service and entrepreneurial endeavors.
Researchers create DOAS system that separates fresh air supply from cooling and heating functions, reducing carryover of recirculated air and eliminating damp spots. This approach could save $2 per square foot in new construction and reduce operating costs by up to 60-70%.