Articles tagged with Construction Materials
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Scientists have successfully fabricated a photosensor using single layers of molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), which converts light into electricity at an extremely efficient rate. The material's large energy gap enables it to achieve high on/off ratios, making it suitable for future electronic devices.
Researchers created logical circuits using living slime molds, which can process information and carry out Boolean logic operations. The slime mold-based system could potentially be used to build low-cost, biological computing devices and sensors.
The new material exhibits a high stability to weight ratio, surpassing that of steel and aluminum. It is produced through 3D laser lithography and has potential applications in insulation, shock absorption, and chemical industry filters.
Researchers at the University of Missouri developed a computer-generated tool called the Material Point Method (MPM) to predict blast scenarios and analyze building materials response. The MPM has been applied to create animation sequences for Disney's 'Frozen', as well as be used in other animated movies
MIT researchers have successfully created devices that harness or emit light using a novel material called tungsten diselenide, which is just a few atoms thick. This breakthrough could lead to the development of ultrathin, lightweight, and flexible photovoltaic cells, LEDs, and other optoelectronic devices.
Scientists at Empa have developed a material that can adapt its vibration properties electronically, allowing for the precise control of wave propagation. This breakthrough enables the creation of mechanical components with freely programmable properties, revolutionizing fields like mechanical engineering and plant construction.
Researchers measure how glassy surfaces flow and solidify over time, shedding light on nanotechnology applications. The study's findings have implications for the design of thin-film coatings and nanoscale devices.
Two solitary bee species use plastic materials to construct nests, replacing traditional plant-based building materials. The discovery suggests innovative use of common urban waste and potential benefits for parasite resistance.
Researchers at the University of Chicago and University of Massachusetts, Amherst, are studying the physical laws governing cellular materials. They aim to catalog phases, understand contraction mechanisms, and develop novel materials for various applications. Gardel's lab focuses on actin filaments, while Ross studies microtubules.
Researchers combine protein sequencing, amino acid composition and RNA analysis to develop unique materials with self-healing properties. Novel proteins like Suckerin-39 allow for reshaping and remolding of elastomers.
A new process, dubbed 'bio-inspired approach to thermal control,' has been developed by University of Toronto professor Ben Hatton and his colleagues. This technique involves attaching optically clear, flexible elastomer sheets to regular glass window panes, resulting in a 7-9 degree cooling effect. The innovation could lead to signifi...
The Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation is providing $90 million over five years to support basic research in condensed matter physics, focusing on emergent phenomena in quantum materials. This initiative aims to advance understanding of complex quantum systems and fuel new discoveries through conceptual breakthroughs and innovations.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have discovered a new type of stretchable conductor made from spherical nanoparticles embedded in elastic materials. The material exhibits exceptional stretchability and electrical conductivity, making it suitable for various applications such as brain implants and flexible electronics.
Researchers combine the electronic properties of molybdenite and graphene to develop a flash memory prototype that stores data even in absence of electricity. The material offers great potential for efficient data storage due to its unique 'energy band' and high sensitivity to charge.
A multi-university research initiative aims to develop new materials for the automotive, building and construction, and energy industries. Researchers will focus on innovative materials with properties such as lightweight construction, new color effects, and bioinspired materials.
Scientists have developed a self-healing protective coating for concrete cracks that can repair itself using sunlight. The coating contains microcapsules loaded with a material that seals cracks upon cracking, providing an environmentally friendly solution to protect infrastructure from deterioration.
Researchers at Northwestern University have created a new set of building blocks for materials science using nanoparticles and DNA, enabling programmable control over material properties. The new approach allows for the creation of novel crystal structures with tailored physical properties.
Chemists at the University of Liverpool created organic molecular crystals that can separate aromatic molecules by shape. This new technique uses less energy and could revolutionize petrochemical and chemical industries.
A team of researchers has developed novel self-assembling materials, known as 'Soft Lego', which can form complex crystal structures with specific properties. These materials have potential applications in photonics and light guides, offering a new approach to the construction of materials at the macroscopic scale.
A team of scientists has made a breakthrough in understanding how materials behave under stress, leading to the creation of stronger and longer-lasting materials. Nickel nanocrystals have been found to deform permanently under intense pressure, which could help physicists and engineers create more resilient materials.
Researchers at Washington State University have successfully printed parts using materials from the moon, marking a significant breakthrough in additive manufacturing. The team used 3D printing technology to create simple shapes from lunar regolith simulant, which they plan to tailor for stronger building materials and remote repairs.
Researchers at MIT have created new materials inspired by spider silk and music, offering a potential solution for designing new biosynthetic materials. By analyzing the structural elements of music, they were able to predict the properties of new protein-based fibers, leading to the creation of stronger and more flexible materials.
Researchers have created self-bending light beams that can move along curved paths and heal themselves, potentially using them to manipulate particles and data. Meanwhile, scientists have also designed ultralight fractal materials that could be used to build solar sails with reduced weight, potentially improving space propulsion.
Researchers discovered a method to improve softwoods' performance by mimicking the black locust tree's heartwood properties, which reduces water collection and resists rot. The treated wood is harder and more resistant to changing humidity, making it a more stable building material.
Researchers from Los Alamos National Laboratory have devised a method to use cosmic rays to gather detailed information from inside damaged reactor cores. The technique, known as muon scattering, showed superiority over traditional transmission methods for capturing high-resolution image data.
Researchers warn of CNTs' potential harm to environment and human health due to toxicity in aquatic organisms like mussels, worms, and crustaceans. The study calls for proper waste management and monitoring to minimize risks associated with composite materials manufacturing.
Researchers at the University of Manchester have developed a side-view imaging technique to visualize individual graphene layers in devices, finding that structures are remarkably stable even with multiple layers. This achievement has significant implications for the engineering of graphene-based computer chips.
Researchers have developed materials and nanofabrication techniques to build miniaturized components for medical diagnostics, sensors, and other applications. These miniaturized components can perform rapid analysis with small sample volumes.
Researchers at University of Pittsburgh and Harvard University created self-regulating microscopic materials that can continuously sense and regulate temperature. The new material, called SMARTS, offers a customizable way to trigger chemical reactions on cue and reproduce stable feedback loops found in biological systems.
Scientists have discovered how to build doughnuts with Lego blocks using a novel material with internal nanostructure made of two chemically discordant polymers. The discovery sheds light on the self-assembly of these materials, which could lead to breakthroughs in data storage, nanoelectronics, and pattern creation.
Researchers at MIT have created an analogy between the physical structure of spider silk and the sonic structure of a melody, showing that the structure of each relates to its function in an equivalent way. The study reveals that structural patterns are directly related to functional properties such as lightweight strength and sonic te...
The Materials Project, a Google-like search engine for materials research, uses supercomputers to characterize material properties and organize them into a database. This accelerates the discovery process, enabling researchers to develop novel materials for industries such as energy, transportation, and food packaging.
Researchers at UC Berkeley have developed a self-templating material assembly process using a harmless virus to mimic the formation of complex structures from helical macromolecules like collagen. The technique allows for control over the type of pattern formed, enabling the creation of materials with diverse functions.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a method to build crystalline materials from nanoparticles and DNA, allowing for the creation of new materials with predictable physical properties. The design rules enable controlled crystallization, resulting in a variety of structures with unique properties.
A recent study by NIST, funded by the US Department of Homeland Security, has overturned existing myths about wildfires, revealing new vulnerabilities in building materials. The research found that embers can easily ignite building materials placed behind vents, and ceramic-tile roofs are not as fire-resistant as thought.
Scientists at the University of Illinois' Beckman Institute have created an active pumping mechanism for microvascular systems, which greatly enhances the repair of damaged materials like cracks in coatings on buildings or bridges. The pressurized delivery system outperforms traditional capillary force methods by a significant margin.
Researchers are testing new technologies that detect hard and soft spots in roadbeds, allowing for more efficient and effective foundation construction. The mobile lab's work could also be applied to the construction and monitoring of earthen levees to improve stability and reduce costs.
Researchers successfully incorporated Waelz slag into commercial-size bricks using existing equipment, reducing toxic metal leaching. The resulting bricks meet EU quality standards for construction ceramic materials.
Researchers at NIST and Virginia Tech developed a new reference material for volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which showed more accurate measurement results than previous methods. The tool aims to reduce inter-laboratory variability in VOC emissions testing, leading to improved indoor air quality and occupant health.
A new outdoor testing system tracks real weather conditions and measures the impact of temperature changes on building joint sealants. This technology may help manufacturers improve the protective performance of their products, leading to reduced moisture damage and associated repairs.
A new assessment by Professor Nicholas Ambraseys and Professor Roger Bilham reveals that corrupt building practices are responsible for most earthquake-related deaths globally. The study found a strong correlation between wealth and corruption, with less wealthy nations being the most corrupt.
The study aims to fill knowledge gaps in cold-formed steel's performance during earthquakes, providing structural engineers with better tools to predict and mitigate damage. The researchers will test two-story buildings and develop computer models to analyze how various building components respond to seismic forces.
A new device can analyze samples thousands of years old in minutes, helping archaeologists determine ancient activities. It works by lifting off spectral fingerprints with infrared light and analyzing molecular peaks to tease out material origin differences.
A new report highlights the potential benefits of nanomaterials in construction, including improved strength, durability, and energy efficiency. However, concerns about adverse health and environmental effects also exist, emphasizing the need for guidelines to regulate their use.
A new gamma-ray detector, Polaris, can pinpoint and show the exact location of radiation sources, unlike conventional detectors. It provides a real-time image of the radiation source, allowing inspectors to navigate towards it with precision.
Researchers in Spain and Scotland created bricks with wool fibres that are 37% stronger than conventional bricks, reducing environmental impact. The new material is made from clay, alginate, and sheep's wool, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional construction materials.
Researchers analyzed over 140 studies on nanomaterials in construction and found benefits including increased strength and durability, as well as improved energy efficiency. However, concerns about potential health and environmental effects exist, highlighting the need for guidelines to regulate their use.
A new study by Rice University researchers highlights the vast potential of nanomaterials in the construction industry, from making more durable concrete to self-cleaning windows. The study also identifies potential adverse health and environmental effects, emphasizing the need for responsible lifecycle engineering.
Researchers at Taiwan's National Chiao Tung University have made a discovery that opens the door to building electronic components like diodes on various substrates, including plastic, paper, and fabric. They developed a new method to improve the rectification efficiency of oxide diodes by forming nanoscale current paths in oxides.
Researchers at the University of Liverpool construct molecular 'knots' with dimensions of around two nanometers, using a process called self-assembly to mechanically bond interpenetrating loops. The discovery has potential applications in building molecular machines to trap harmful gases and pollutants.
A researcher at the University of Illinois Chicago is using computer modeling to improve the durability of mud bricks and rammed earth structures. The project aims to provide insights into their structural behavior and design safer buildings.
Researchers have created a new two-dimensional polymer crystal self-assembled in water, mirroring biological systems. The peptoid nanosheets have unique properties and can be precisely tailored for various applications.
A researcher at Case Western Reserve University is developing new materials inspired by nature, including scratch-resistant coatings and durable fabrics. The materials are engineered to mimic the incredible attributes of natural materials like squid beaks and spider webs.
The University of Nevada, Reno has developed a new curriculum that combines nanotechnology with skiing, aiming to prepare mechanical engineers for emerging challenges. Students will design and manufacture innovative materials and technologies to create extraordinary ski designs, including energy-efficient systems and dynamic structures.
Researchers at Kent State University have broken the world record for packing tetrahedra, with a packing fraction of 85.03%. They also discovered that the simplest regular solids form quasicrystals when compressed.
Researchers at the University of Bath are constructing a two-storey BaleHaus made of prefabricated straw bales and hemp cladding panels to test the sustainability of straw houses. The project aims to reduce carbon emissions and provide eco-friendly housing options.
The researchers used mechanical forces to control catalytic activity, initiating chemical reactions and creating a 'molecular ripcord' that can switch between dormant and active states. This discovery enables the creation of self-repairing materials that strengthen under mechanical stress.
Professor Geoffrey Gadd's research explores how microbes interact with metals and minerals, degrading ammunition and transforming pollutants. His work has significant implications for environmental biotechnology and nuclear decommissioning.
Researchers have developed a synthetic wood substitute made from a new biodegradable plastic that could replace petrochemical plastics in building materials and disposable water bottles. The material is durable, recyclable and can be produced faster than wood or trees.
Researchers at Northwestern University developed a novel method to assemble graphite oxide sheets into continuous membranes, overcoming conventional thin-film processing limitations. This breakthrough enables the creation of high-quality graphene devices with high successful yields and potential applications in energy-related fields.