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New technique for monitoring soil freezing will make building on permafrost safer

Researchers at Skoltech have developed a new method to monitor soil freezing, enabling the creation of safer and more stable structures in permafrost regions. The water potential method is fast, inexpensive, and applicable to various soil types, providing accurate estimates of freezing point and unfrozen water content.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalCold Regions Science and Technology·DateMar 14, 2022

A laser-quick and non-destructive method to detect cracks in concrete structures

Researchers at Shibaura Institute of Technology develop a fast and reliable method to detect defects in concrete structures using laser-induced plasma shock waves. The technique analyzes vibration patterns to identify Rayleigh waves, which can reveal the presence of cracks.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalInternational Journal of Mechanical Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2022

Reducing carbon emissions of C&D waste in building refurbishment

Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University provide valuable insights on managing C&D waste and reducing carbon emissions in building refurbishment projects. By upcycling generated waste, carbon emissions can be significantly reduced, with a potential reduction of around 40% compared to traditional practices.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalEnvironmental Science and Pollution Research·TypeCase study·DateFeb 23, 2022
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.

NIST researchers link cutting-edge gravity research to safer operation of construction cranes

Researchers from NIST have developed a mathematical model that predicts the strength and timing of changes in velocity required for crane operators to apply when transporting heavy loads. This equation can be applied to various situations, including moving a load with initial rest and large distances.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalAmerican Journal of Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 18, 2022

New technique will improve the construction of ice roads and bridges

Researchers developed a new technique using radar altimetry to measure river ice thickness and predict safe travel dates on ice roads and bridges in arctic regions. This method can help sustain the network of ice roads built on frozen lakes and rivers, critical for northern communities' food security.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalThe Cryosphere·DateFeb 10, 2022

“We play ping pong with the tree”

Researchers at TUM explore the use of living trees in architecture, using photogrammetry and skeleton extraction to design structures that adapt to tree growth. They demonstrate a pavilion with a roof structure optimized to follow the shape of supporting branches.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 7, 2022

New models assess bridge support repairs after earthquakes

Engineers developed a computational modeling strategy to simulate restoration strategies for reinforced concrete columns. The models predict the effects of repair methods on column strength and ductility before and after repair.

SourceRice University·JournalEngineering Structures·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 18, 2022
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.

New method aids water prospecting and dam security

Scientists have developed a mathematical method to interpret data on underground water flows, providing more efficient and accurate imaging for planning construction works and inspecting dams. The technique has great potential for locating water reservoirs in dry areas and tapping into this resource for agricultural and industrial needs.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing·DateJan 10, 2022

How long can fiber reinforced polymer sustain concrete structures? Scientists answer

A 13-year-long study finds that fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) coatings can sustain concrete structures for extended periods. The study tested FRP and glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) systems under various environmental conditions, revealing significant impact on bond behavior.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalComposites Part B Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scientists taught intelligence system to accurate forecast of pile bearing capacity

Researchers from South Ural State University created a hybrid intelligence system that can predict pile bearing capacity with high accuracy. The system, developed by combining adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system and group method of data handling, outperformed traditional methods and provided close to measured values.

SourceSouth Ural State University·JournalArtificial Intelligence Review·DateOct 12, 2021

Novel approach to 3D image segmentation delivers ‘jaw-dropping’ demonstration

Researchers developed a novel approach to 3D image segmentation, segmenting the gaps between parts instead of contours, to automate tedious tasks. The technique demonstrates promising results in diagnosing TMJ-related issues and has potential applications in other fields.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalScientific Reports·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 30, 2021
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.

Slam the door shut: Improving building energy by evaluating building airflow

Scientists from Incheon National University identified interzonal airflow across household entrance doors as a dominant factor in calculating heating loads. They found that strong stack effect and weather-driven airflow rates were larger than external infiltration rates, making conventional airtightness measures unreliable.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalRenewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021

Scientists synthesize a material which can completely replace natural gypsum in the construction industry

Researchers develop method to produce high-quality gypsum binders from synthetic calcium sulfate dihydrate, surpassing natural gypsum in several parameters. The new material can replace natural gypsum in countries without gypsum stone deposits, reducing production costs and simplifying technology.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalJournal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry·DateJul 30, 2021

Supernovae twins open up new possibilities for precision cosmology

Cosmologists have found a way to double the accuracy of measuring distances to supernova explosions, enabling precise study of dark energy. The Nearby Supernova Factory collaboration has developed a new method that quadruples the number of supernovae used, allowing for more accurate measurements and reducing biases.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateMay 6, 2021

AI is not perfect -- Domain knowledge is a key in engineering

A research team at KICT has developed a fully-automated peak-picking method for extracting modal frequencies in stay-cables without prior setting or human manipulation. The method utilizes domain knowledge based on the physical characteristics of stay-cables, outperforming state-of-the-art methods in terms of accuracy and robustness.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalAutomation in Construction·DateMay 6, 2021

A groundbreaking solution? Polymers can protect buildings from large fault ruptures

A team of researchers has proposed a new composite foundation system using inexpensive polymeric materials to protect structures sitting on deep foundations. The novel technique uses geotextile layers to isolate the building from the ground, reducing impact of large ground deformations due to fault rupture.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalGeotextiles and Geomembranes·DateFeb 15, 2021
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.

Concrete structure's lifespan extended by a carbon textile

A new method using noncombustible carbon textile grid and cement mortar doubles load-bearing capacities of structurally deficient concrete structures, increasing their usable lifespan threefold. Construction costs are reduced by 40% compared to existing methods.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalMaterials·DateOct 26, 2020

Innovative approaches to stabilizing bridges, highway slopes

Researchers are exploring the use of recycled plastic pins to repair deep-seated failures on embankments and areas around highway bridges. The pins provide stabilization and reduce costs by more than 50%, while also testing the feasibility of using just a moisture barrier for slope stabilization.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateSep 14, 2020

Nanoneedles to increase the capacity and robustness of digital memories

A team of scientists has created a technique using nanoneedles to modify the properties of iron-rhodium alloy, allowing for the creation of antiferromagnetic nano-islands embedded in ferromagnetic matrices. This breakthrough enables the miniaturization of magnetic devices and facilitates the manufacture of more robust and secure memories.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalMaterials Horizons·DateMay 26, 2020

New recycling method could make polyurethane sustainable

Researchers have developed a way to recycle conventional polyurethane (PU) foams into rubber and hard plastic using a twin-screw extrusion process. This new method improves the mixing and air removal in recycled foams, producing high-quality products without the need for toxic starting materials.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateApr 29, 2020

BIM & Lean Construction well-established in major firms but lacking within industry's SMEs

Research at the University of Huddersfield warns that smaller construction firms are missing out on cutting-edge techniques like BIM and Lean Construction, which can improve efficiency and productivity. The study found that SMEs are not adopting these practices, despite their potential to transform the industry.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·JournalCanadian Journal of Civil Engineering·DateApr 28, 2020
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.

New optical technique captures real-time dynamics of cement setting

Researchers developed a nondestructive optical technique to determine cement setting times and assess hydration processes in real-time. The method combines laser-based technology with an optical model to calculate dynamic behavior, providing accurate calculations for initial and final setting times.

SourceOptica·JournalOptica·DateJan 16, 2020

Researchers create synthetic nanopores made from DNA

Scientists successfully created a large synthetic nanopore made from DNA with a functional gating system for sensing and bio-sensing applications. The pore can translocate large protein-sized macromolecules between compartments separated by a lipid bilayer, enabling label-free real-time biosensing of trigger molecules.

SourceAarhus University·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 13, 2019
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Deployable human-scale immersive virtual environments?

Acoustical Society of America researchers present a new approach to deploying human-scale immersive virtual environments, combining wave field synthesis with modular design for scalable configurations. The system enables rapid assembly, calibration, and deployment in various settings, such as schools, offices, or research institutes.

SourceAcoustical Society of America·DateDec 4, 2019

Researchers develop method to improve skeleton of common chemicals

A research team at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology has developed a new method for constructing seven- and eight-membered carbocycles, overcoming previous difficulties due to instability. The process uses an internal redox reaction, allowing for the creation of medium-sized carbocycles with favorable formation rates.

SourceTokyo University of Agriculture and Technology·JournalChemical Communications·DateDec 4, 2019

Can a DNA construction kit replace expensive antibody medication?

Researchers have developed a technique to make sheep produce new antibodies by injecting DNA building blocks, offering a cheaper and more efficient approach than industrial production. This breakthrough brings the study of antibody gene therapy closer to clinical use.

SourceKU Leuven·JournalHuman Gene Therapy·DateSep 11, 2019
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.

New technique could streamline design of intricate fusion device

A new mathematical technique developed by Caoxiang Zhu at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory can help simplify the design of stellarators, reducing construction time and costs. The method identifies irregular magnetic fields produced by stellarator coils, allowing for the creation of more stable plasmas.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalNuclear Fusion·DateAug 21, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

How bacteria can help prevent coal ash spills

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a technique using bacteria to create biocement in coal ash ponds, making them stiffer and more difficult to spill. The resulting biocement can also trap potentially toxic metals in the coal ash, reducing environmental and public health concerns.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering·DateMar 4, 2019

iMT: Creating a blueprint for cortical connectivity

Scientists at Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience create a novel technique called iMT, capable of tracing intricate neural connections with unprecedented sensitivity. This breakthrough could improve our understanding of the brain and uncover novel approaches for diagnosing and treating brain disorders.

SourceMax Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience·JournalNature Neuroscience·DateJan 28, 2019
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

DNA on auto-pilot

New research allows for fully automated design of DNA staple sequences, enabling the creation of complex nanostructures with ease. This breakthrough advances the field of DNA origami, opening up new possibilities for applications in material science and medicine.

SourceArizona State University·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 3, 2019

A periodic table of molecular knots

Researchers identify a shortlist of designable molecular knot types that can be easily self-assembled under physical and chemical conditions. The findings support the synthesis of novel topologies for potential applications in medicine, electronics, and nanocargo loading/unloading.

SourceScuola Internazionale Superiore di Studi Avanzati·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 3, 2018

New research modernizes rammed earth construction

Researchers at University of British Columbia Okanagan have developed a new method to improve the strength of rammed earth walls using calcium carbide residue and fly ash as binding agents. The treated walls were found to be 25 times stronger than those without, paving the way for its use in modern construction.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalConstruction and Building Materials·DateApr 23, 2018

UBC researchers invent new method to create self-tinting windows

Researchers at UBC developed a simple technique to create smart windows with dynamic tinting, reducing energy losses by switching between clear and tinted states. The new method reduces production costs compared to conventional glass windows, making it more feasible for commercial use.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia·JournalChem·DateMar 8, 2018
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.

Common bricks can be used to detect past presence of uranium, plutonium

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a method to identify the presence of radioactive materials like uranium and plutonium in building materials. The technique uses brick samples to detect the presence of these materials and can be done in days, not weeks.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalHealth Physics·DateMar 1, 2018

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

Construction material-based methodology for contingency base selection

The study proposes a remote evaluation method to determine the feasibility of using local resources for contingency base construction. By analyzing available data and proximity factor analysis, planners can optimize CB site plans and locations to maximize indigenous resource utilization.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Construction and Building Technology Journal·DateOct 24, 2017
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Improving earthquake resistance with a single crystal

Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a cheaper production method to create single-crystal metals, known for their shape memory properties. This breakthrough could lead to mass-produced materials with improved elasticity and strength, ideal for building structures that can withstand earthquakes.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 30, 2017

Immersive journalism in a post-truth world

The rise of immersive journalism poses challenges to traditional journalistic principles, as it offers a personal experience that can be subjective and relativistic. However, when used thoughtfully, immersion can enhance the narrative and create a powerful emotional impact.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Digital Humanities·DateJun 29, 2017
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.

System can 3-D print an entire building

MIT researchers have designed a system that can 3-D print the basic structure of an entire building, enabling faster, cheaper, and more adaptable construction. The system uses a robotic arm to direct various construction nozzles and can construct objects of any size.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Robotics·DateApr 26, 2017
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Manchester scientists tie the tightest knot ever achieved

Researchers at The University of Manchester developed a braiding technique to create tighter and more complex molecular knots, leading to potential breakthroughs in material strength and elasticity. This achievement has the possibility of generating new types of materials, such as lighter and more flexible polymers.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalScience·DateJan 12, 2017

New laser scanning test to assess fire-damaged concrete

Researchers at University of Nottingham have developed a new laser scanning test to assess fire-damaged concrete structural safety. The technique uses terrestrial laser scanning to detect damage and provides an accurate assessment of the material's strength changes when heated to elevated temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalJournal of Civil Structural Health Monitoring·DateDec 12, 2016

3-D imaging technique maps migration of DNA-carrying material at the center of cells

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking 3D imaging technique that maps the reorganization of genetic material in cell nuclei, providing a new understanding of how chromosomes are compacted and genes are activated or silenced. This breakthrough uses X-ray microscopy to visualize the structure and movement of chromatin in real-time.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalCell Reports·DateNov 17, 2016

Researchers peel back another layer of chemistry with 'tender' X-rays

Berkeley Lab scientists create direct method to study electrochemical double layer using 'tender' X-rays, revealing changes in electric potential and charge properties. This breakthrough advances materials design and development of improved electrochemical systems.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 31, 2016

Post-disaster optimization technique capable of analyzing entire cities

A team of Lehigh engineers has created a novel method called AMIGO that considers multiple elements and is the first to factor in so many aspects. The algorithm demonstrates its effectiveness on transportation network recovery in an imagined post-earthquake San Diego, finding near-optimal solutions in a small number of trials.

SourceLehigh University·JournalEngineering Structures·DateAug 24, 2016
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

DNA origami lights up a microscopic glowing Van Gogh

Researchers at Caltech use DNA origami to precisely place glowing molecules within microscopic light resonators, creating a microscopic reproductions of Vincent van Gogh's The Starry Night. By mapping out a checkerboard pattern of hot and cold spots, they can position fluorescent molecules to make lamps of varying intensity.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJul 12, 2016