Articles tagged with Environmental Engineering
A new study reveals that humans have released 385,000 tons of mercury into the environment over the past 5,000 years, with emissions peaking in the late 1800s and rising again due to increased coal use. The research challenges the notion of declining mercury emissions.
A multi-national team, including USC scientists, found that indoor pollution has been drastically reduced at the church housing the famous painting by 88 and 94 percent. However, fatty lipids from visitors' skin still pose a threat of soiling on the Last Supper, despite strict visitor access regulations.
Researchers at Arizona State University are working on a project to improve the performance of technology in extreme environments, supported by a $1.7 million grant from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency. The team is focusing on specialized materials that can withstand high radiation and extreme temperatures.
A Virginia Tech research team has created a microelectromechanical system to detect trace amounts of toxins in breath on the parts per billion scale. The study aims to monitor patient exhaled breath to identify and quantify environmental exposure risks, providing valuable data for limiting harmful contaminant exposure.
A new invention by Michigan State University professor Syed Hashsham enables the instant identification of plant diseases using a low-cost handheld device. This technology uses genetic analysis and can identify pathogens, their genotype, and amount in under 30 minutes, speeding up treatments and preventing pathogen spread.
Research finds 94% of thermal cash register receipts contain BPA, contaminating paper products such as napkins and food packaging. The recycling process is a significant source of BPA exposure, contributing to up to 33.5 tons of BPA in the environment annually.
Scientists at University of California, Riverside, are conducting a two-year study on hybrid bulldozer and excavator emission reduction benefits. The project aims to establish the methodology for comparing hybrid vehicles under varied conditions and may inform a hybrid incentive program.
Black carbon particles emitted from human activities contribute to climate change by affecting air quality and public health. Dr. Akua Asa-Awuku will investigate the interactions between clouds and aerosols using the world's largest indoor atmospheric chamber.
Researchers at UC Berkeley found that ending the hybrid car program in California's carpool lanes slowed traffic for all drivers, not just hybrids. The study showed that moving hybrids out of carpool lanes increased congestion in adjacent lanes and reduced overall traffic speed.
A new study uses exhaled breath to detect exposure to potentially toxic substances in workplaces and environments. The technology is non-invasive, quick, and inexpensive, with hand-held equipment that can detect minute amounts of substances.
The Stevens team uses holographic lithography to create uniform arrays of metallic nanostructures, enabling the production of high-quality, large-scale plasmonic nanogap arrays. This breakthrough technique reduces costs and infrastructure, paving the way for applications in miniaturized photonic circuits and ultrasensitive sensing.
Researchers at University of California, Riverside are developing a comprehensive driver feedback technology to cut fuel consumption and emissions. The project aims to achieve fuel savings of up to 30%, leveraging existing technology and integrating features like trip planning, improved driving efficiency, and periodic reporting.
A new study finds that paper money from around the world contains bisphenol A, a potentially toxic substance. The amounts of BPA on currency are higher than in house dust, but human intake is lower due to dermal absorption.
Researchers report that people over age 50 tend to miss the metallic taste of iron in water, even at levels above EPA thresholds. This decline in taste perception raises health concerns for older adults who may be at increased risk for conditions like Alzheimer's disease and other age-related issues.
The Geological Society of America recognizes Paul F. Hoffman, Susan L. Brantley, Jasper A. Vrugt, Naomi E. Levin, A. Wesley Ward, Scott F. Burns, Richard C. Berg, and Brendan Murphy for their exceptional contributions to geology, hydrogeology, paleoclimate, and public service.
A new study finds that large river discharges carrying nutrients contribute to increased phytoplankton blooms, which in turn lead to cholera outbreaks. The research analyzed data from four major river basins and suggests that predicting global warming's impact on cholera will be more complicated than initially thought.
Researchers use computerized 3-D models to estimate plant yield based on measurable attributes, enabling rapid and accurate prediction of large numbers of plants' potential yields. The project aims to improve Australian agriculture's efficiency and competitiveness by producing more food for a growing population.
New research controls stem cell development to direct desired cell types, enabling efficient diagnostics and regenerative medicine therapies. The study's findings could be used to develop manufacturing procedures for producing large quantities of stem cells.
Research found that recyclable cardboard can transfer harmful mineral oils to food, even if the cardboard is used for corrugated boxes and not directly in contact with food. The study suggests that alternative solutions, such as using fresh fibre paperboard or introducing functional barriers, are needed to address this issue.
Researchers at the European Centre for the Environment and Human Health found that virtual environments can promote improved human health and wellbeing. The development of accurate simulations has been shown to be beneficial for individuals with infirmity or other limitations, but not a substitute for real-world nature interaction.
A University of Washington psychologist argues that humans need exposure to the natural world for physical and psychological well-being. Studies show that technological substitutes for nature are better than none but not as good as real outdoors.
An Iowa State University engineer studied the devastating impact of a February earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand, which killed over 160 people. The research highlighted the importance of regular building shape and structure symmetry in resisting earthquakes.
The Office of Naval Research has selected 10 finalists for its Chief of Naval Research Challenge, offering each a $100,000 research grant. The recipients will apply the funds to their research areas, addressing various naval forces challenges.
A Virginia Tech engineer is leading a government team to investigate the geotechnical impacts of the magnitude 6.3 earthquake in Christchurch, New Zealand. The team will focus on documenting extreme events and their effects on infrastructure.
Krzysztof Matyjaszewski will be recognized for his groundbreaking research in synthesis of organic materials and controlled radical polymerization. His work has led to the development of innovative materials with tailored functionalities, enabling applications in energy, environment, and biomedicine.
Researchers at Princeton University developed an air laser that can detect hidden bombs, pollutants, and greenhouse gases from afar. The new technique uses an ultraviolet laser pulse to generate an entirely new beam of light that interacts with molecules in the air, providing a powerful tool for remote measurements.
Researchers found DOSS, a dispersant ingredient, concentrated in deepwater plumes at depths up to three-quarters of a mile after the spill; it was detected over 200 miles from the well two months later. The study's findings are inconclusive on the effectiveness of dispersants in breaking up oil coming out of the wellhead.
Scientists have found that thirdhand smoke, the invisible remains of cigarette smoke, can react with ozone in indoor air to form potentially toxic pollutants on surfaces. This can lead to adverse health effects, particularly for vulnerable populations like babies crawling on carpet or people eating food tainted by thirdhand smoke.
Researchers at UC San Diego have developed a more accurate solar map for California, suggesting that west-facing solar panels can increase energy production. By optimizing panel orientation, households and businesses can maximize their solar power output during peak demand hours.
Researchers create four new systems: hybrid yielding, standard augmented, advanced augmented, and collapse prevention, to control damage and provide life-safety for any size of earthquake. These systems use visco-elastic dampers and metallic yielding devices to minimize residual deformations.
A recent study by Carnegie Mellon's Christopher Weber found that carbon footprint calculations are often inaccurate due to variables from production and shipping. The use phase of an IBM computer server accounted for 94% of total greenhouse gas emissions, emphasizing the importance of energy efficiency in data centers.
A Duke University study identifies new monitoring protocols to accurately measure and predict ecological impacts of coal ash contaminants. The research found that arsenic levels remained high in pore water long after surface waters dropped below safe thresholds, posing significant risks to aquatic life.
A new study by University of California, Riverside scientists found that a hybrid electric tugboat reduces emissions of soot by 73%, oxides of nitrogen by 51%, and carbon dioxide by 27%. The study's findings are significant due to the heavy impact port pollution has on regional air quality.
A pioneering lighting system has been developed to combat hospital infections by decontaminating air and surfaces with a narrow spectrum of visible-light wavelengths. Clinical trials show significantly greater reductions in bacterial pathogens compared to cleaning and disinfection alone.
Researchers developed a non-intrusive load monitoring system to track electricity consumption in single-family homes, providing households with a more accurate picture of their energy usage. The system uses machine-learning algorithms to identify appliances and reduce energy waste, potentially leading to cheaper bills and greener homes.
A study by the University of Washington found that 25 commonly used scented products release an average of 17 chemicals each, with nearly a quarter classified as toxic or hazardous. The majority of these chemicals were not listed on product labels or disclosed to consumers.
A new study finds that car travel has a higher long-term impact on global warming than plane travel, with a fourfold increase in temperature rise over time. In contrast, air travel has a more significant short-term effect due to its high-altitude emissions.
The study found that H5N1 survives longer at cooler temperatures and low humidity, persisting up to two weeks. The virus also thrives on certain surfaces like glass and steel, potentially surviving for up to two months.
The University of Nottingham leads a new knowledge exchange network focusing on Earth observation technology for various scientific applications. The cluster aims to develop and promote cutting-edge technologies to monitor environmental changes and their implications.
The ISIM structure passed extreme cryogenic temperature tests without cracking, with thermal contraction and distortion measured to be within the design requirement. The unique composite laminate and bonding technique used in its construction were successfully tested, ensuring the telescope's instruments remain in precise locations.
Researchers at NPL and Orla Protein Technologies are developing improved TB detection methods to enhance sensitivity, specificity, cost and speed. The project aims to create systems that advance current methods, helping improve healthcare in resource-limiting settings.
The Magnetic Energy Recovery Switch (MERS) harnesses and recycles residual magnetic power to control electrical flow, significantly reducing lighting energy consumption by 39 percent. The technology has the potential to reduce the Navy's total energy consumption from alternative sources by 40% by 2020.
Researchers at Newcastle University create a wireless sensor that can withstand extreme temperatures to monitor volcanic activity and collect real-time data. The device uses Silicon Carbide electronics, which also offers radiation tolerance for potential use in the nuclear industry.
A new study finds that traveling by car increases global temperatures more significantly than flying over the long term due to higher carbon dioxide emissions. In contrast, air travel has a greater adverse climate impact in the short run due to its effects on high-altitude ozone and clouds.
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 found that marine microorganisms are attracted to dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP), a chemical involved in ocean sulphur and carbon cycles. The team's study visualized microbial behavior for the first time using microfluidic technology, shedding light on the importance of these tiny organisms in climate regulation.
Dr. Yong Shi's innovative nano-generators convert mechanical energy into electrical energy, powering wireless devices and implantable biosensors. This technology has vast potential for various industries and research fields.
Holly Morris and Randy Atkins received the IEEE-USA Award for Literary Contributions Furthering Public Understanding of the Profession. Their award includes a $1,500 honorarium for their live coverage and podcast reporting on engineering innovations.
Researchers find that crop yields are unlikely to meet future demands due to climate change, and that elevated carbon dioxide levels result in only half the expected yield increase. SoyFACE facility is conducting novel studies on this topic using open-field environments.
A new study finds that hand washing can significantly reduce fecal bacteria contamination in stored drinking water, which is crucial for households with limited access to municipal water supply systems. The research discovered nearly 100 times more fecal bacteria in stored water compared to its source in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
A new software called SleepServer created by UC San Diego computer scientists reduces energy consumption on enterprise PCs by an average of 60 percent. The software maintains connectivity and responds to applications even when the PCs are in low-power sleep mode, enabling them to work while they sleep.
Researchers are creating a Subsurface Thermal Energy Storage (STES) system to store waste energy underground, cutting heating and cooling costs and reducing carbon emissions. The system uses natural insulating properties of underground sediments and conventional heat pumps to achieve higher efficiency than traditional HVAC systems.
Clemson University has received a three-year, $400,000 faculty-development grant from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission to recruit and retain younger faculty in nuclear science. The grant will support Dr. Brian Powell and help establish an excellent base for his academic career.
The EnComPas2 project developed an integrated platform to manage multiple gadgets, enabling technicians to detect appliances and configure services remotely. The platform achieved high user satisfaction rates, but pricing remains a challenge.
A University of Alberta researcher examines three social narratives that prevent people from acting on the effects of oil on the environment. These narratives, including strategic realism, eco-apocalypse, and technological utopianism, hinder effective action despite knowledge of the issue's impact.
The American Chemical Society's Green Chemistry Institute is developing a universal standard to evaluate chemical products and processes based on their environmental performance. This standard will provide comparative data, making it easier for consumers to choose greener products.
The University of Adelaide's Environment Institute has ranked countries based on their environmental impact using seven indicators. The study found that total wealth is the most important driver of environmental impact, contradicting the Kuznets curve hypothesis.
The developing world is projected to generate twice as much electronic waste (e-waste) as developed countries by 2030, with 400-700 million PCs discarded annually. Technological advances have led to a rapid decline in consumer electronics lifespan, prompting concerns about environmentally safe disposal methods.
The University of Houston welcomes the NSF-supported National Center for Airborne Laser Mapping, bringing cutting-edge laser mapping technology to its campus. The center aims to advance research in geosensing systems engineering, improving disaster recovery, oil and gas exploration, and environmental studies.
Using optical-coherence tomography (OCT), researchers are documenting the formation of the mammalian heart in real-time, allowing for the first time to observe the heart beat and chamber contractions. This breakthrough technology aims to shed light on developmental processes and gene mutations that cause cardiovascular abnormalities.