Articles tagged with Industrial Engineering
Virginia Tech researchers publish real-time data to better understand what happens when people lose their balance. The study uses wrist-worn voice recorders to capture immediate, self-reported data from participants, providing a more reliable understanding of the circumstances surrounding balance loss among older adults.
Researchers designed a unique two-stage catalytic membrane reactor that uses solar irradiation to split CO₂ into CO and O₂, achieving a prominent CO₂ conversion of 35.4% and higher H₂ yield compared to traditional reactors. The reactor's design also provides flexibility for selecting membrane configurations.
A team of researchers from Xi'an University of Architecture and Technology developed two active Schottky junction electrocatalysts using a targeted doping and interfacial coupling strategy. These catalysts exhibit stable hydrogen evolution reaction activity and high selectivity for oxygen evolution under alkaline medium, achieving effi...
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University found that foaming plastic carriers promote 44 times more biofilm formation, enhancing wastewater treatment. Adding waste biomass further improves performance, especially in nitrate removal during the moving bed biofilm reactor process.
A team from Osaka Metropolitan University has created a way to control the growth of crystals on metal-organic frameworks thin films, reducing light scattering and resulting in high-quality films. These advanced films are expected to be used as optical sensors, optical elements, and transparent gas adsorption sheets.
A new framework enables efficient calculation of optimal solar panel and battery sizes for residential neighborhoods, making it feasible to achieve net-zero energy houses. The approach leverages linear programming transformations to overcome computational challenges, demonstrating that ZEH status does not significantly elevate costs.
A Virginia Tech researcher has developed a simulation model to examine how public health interventions affect fatalities among teens and young adults. The study found that a single measure is not effective in reducing alcohol-related crashes; instead, a combined strategy with three key tenets is necessary.
Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a flexible and durable bioelectrode material composed of single-wall carbon nanotubes on a stretchable poly(styrene-b-butadiene-b-styrene) nanosheet. The material showed impressive flexibility, high water vapor permeability and resilience for extended use.
High-entropy carbide coatings have been designed and experimentally verified to exhibit excellent ablation resistance. The coatings' inverse design methodology enables the formation of a stable oxide scale, contributing to their improved anti-ablation performance.
Researchers developed PEDOT:F ionomer to improve PEMWE performance. The hybrid conductor facilitates water adsorption and reduces energy barriers, leading to enhanced oxygen evolution reaction performance. This innovation promotes smoother particle migration during electrolysis.
Researchers used O K-edge X-ray absorption spectroscopy to analyze isolated water molecules in aqueous acetonitrile solutions. The study found that these molecules exhibited distinct electronic and structural properties compared to small water clusters.
Researchers at the University of Malaga have developed an instruction manual to understand the operating limits of phantom motion, allowing for cost-effective and lighter haptic devices. The study found that individuals can perceive phantom sensation when a vibrating point travels at least 20% of the separation between actuators.
Researchers developed a new component, sepiolite, to improve braking effectiveness in high-speed rail brakes. Sepiolite exhibits high-temperature lubricity, weakening bonds between its layered structures, and accelerates the formation of a surface lubricating film, providing stable friction at high temperatures.
A systematic investigation by Osaka Metropolitan University calculated 120 combinations of alloy elements with carbon and nitrogen to form bonds in steel. The results showed that specific arrangements of elements harden the iron, improving durability and material strength.
Scientists studied the nickel-tungsten alloy interface to understand its properties and behavior. The research revealed the formation of intermetallic compounds and diffusion-induced recrystallization regions, which significantly impact the material's mechanical, thermal, and chemical properties.
A new NIR phosphor with broadband emission, high luminous efficiency, and thermal stability has been developed for multi-functional applications. The phosphor is composed of Cr³⁺ activated in Y₂Mg₂Al₂Si₂O₁₂ host materials, showing potential for night visualization, bio-imaging, and non-intrusive detection.
A new online curriculum and simulation training program, developed by Penn State researchers, significantly reduced complications in central line placement. The program, launched in 2022, has been shown to decrease error rates for mechanical issues, infections, and blood clots.
New study uses high-powered microscopy and mathematical theory to unveil nanoscale voids in three dimensions. The findings show a strong correlation between unique physical properties of random empty space and improved filtration performance.
Researchers from China examined biomass-derived carbon materials for high-performance rechargeable battery electrodes. The hydrothermal method offers a promising approach for crafting these materials, enabling precise microstructure control and synergistic effects with other elements.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have devised a technique for mass-producing large-area metalenses tailored for use in the ultraviolet region. The breakthrough enables control over optical properties of UV rays, sparking interest in potential advancements for medical devices and wearable technology.
The University of Manchester has received a £4.2 million funding award to tackle the UK's most challenging resilience and security problems. The project, SALIENT, will drive interdisciplinary research on robust supply chains, global order, and technological security.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have developed a new photosensitizer that doubles the yield of fumaric acid from CO2, creating biodegradable plastics with reduced carbon dioxide emissions. The innovation reuses waste resources to produce fumaric acid, a key component of sustainable packaging materials.
Researchers from Pohang University of Science & Technology employ linker ions to pioneer three-dimensional microprinting technology applicable to inorganic substances and other various materials. The team successfully crafts inorganic porous structures with dimensions below 10 μm without specialized equipment.
Researchers found that Ti substitution improves oxidation resistance by creating a complex oxide layer structure with crystalline oxycarbides and HfO2. A 30%-40% Ti substitution provides the best enhancement of oxidation resistance.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology discovered a breakthrough approach to stabilize aptamers using ionic liquids. The team found that these liquid-based environments can shield nucleic acids from enzymes, preserving their functions up to 6.5 million times longer than conventional methods.
The 2023 Geothermal Rising Conference highlights growing interest in superhot rock geothermal, with papers validating its viability for high power output and small spatial footprint. Researchers are developing new technologies to access these resources, including millimeter wave energy to drill deeper holes.
Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University developed a system to assess water quality challenges in Suzhou, China. The study found that the city's water capacity has increased since 2001 due to effective water management measures.
Researchers discover chemical injection strengthens sandy soil through increased cohesion and internal friction angle, with no long-term strength loss. The treatment also enhances water-sealing capacity, mitigating flood risks and improving infrastructure durability.
A team of researchers from POSTECH has introduced a tungsten oxide coating to protect the membrane-electrode assembly in hydrogen fuel cells. The coating prevents electrochemical reactions that lead to catalyst degradation, resulting in improved performance retention rates.
Researchers have developed catalysts that combine iridium and ruthenium, preserving their excellent attributes and improving activity and stability. The study also explores the importance of carefully selecting candidate materials and retaining superior properties even after nanostructure formation.
The study analyzes the life cycle of magnesium production processes, examining energy consumption, carbon emissions, and economic aspects. Key findings highlight the importance of sustainable development in reducing environmental impacts and improving economic efficiency.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have developed a new simulation method using AI to predict powder mixing with high accuracy and low computational costs. This breakthrough enables large-scale and long-duration powder mixing processes, set to enhance product quality and streamline production.
The University of Texas at San Antonio has been selected to establish a Secure Manufacturing Tech Hub with a $500,000 grant from the US Economic Development Administration. The consortium aims to grow a skilled workforce, enhance business competitiveness, and promote secure manufacturing strategies across South Texas.
Researchers have developed a novel, fully bio-based starch plastic with remarkable flexibility, hydrophobicity, and self-healing properties. The material's ability to be thermally processed and adaptively heal scratches and large-area damage makes it highly appealing for various applications.
Researchers have developed a technology that can rapidly determine the number of viable bacteria in food products, reducing inspection time from 2 days to 1 hour. This method uses tetrazolium salt and electrochemical properties, offering a faster and more efficient way to ensure food safety before shipment.
The Graphene Flagship project has produced significant contributions to Europe's GDP and GVA, with an estimated return on investment of 14.5-fold. By 2030, the project aims to create over 81,000 jobs internationally.
The University of Missouri is using a $1 million grant to develop an Industry 4.0 lab, providing engineering students with hands-on learning experiences in the latest industrial revolution's technology-centered job market. The lab will integrate skills at a higher level and keep students at the state-of-the-art level for industry.
Researchers developed a water-soluble nanoimprint mold to overcome challenges in metasurface fabrication. The novel approach enables high-resolution and high aspect ratio results at an affordable cost.
The research team produced a new strong, ductile, and sustainable titanium alloy through additive manufacturing, exhibiting better mechanical performance than traditional methods. This innovation addresses waste management issues in titanium alloy production, enabling recycling of off-grade sponge titanium.
Researchers found a new type of grain-interior planar defect induced by ordered distribution of heteroatoms on W and C crystal planes, which display distinct characteristics. The defects' high stability may reduce transgranular fracture risk, allowing for optimal mechanical performance.
Researchers from Osaka University have demonstrated a method of dehydrating CNFs to a dense powder without affecting their three key properties. The resulting CNF powders retain high viscosity, transparency, and tunable properties.
Researchers developed a new anode material that increases lithium-ion battery storage capacity by 1.5 times, allowing for fast charging in as little as six minutes. The innovation uses electron spin to enhance storage capacity and ferromagnetic properties.
Researchers have developed a highly efficient electrode for solid oxide electrolysis cells, enabling high-efficiency carbon dioxide reduction. The high-entropy perovskite-type symmetrical electrode incorporates Fe-Co-Ni-Cu quaternary alloy nanocatalysts, showing exceptional catalytic activity and stability.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology developed a selective catalyst that curbs corrosion in fuel cells, increasing durability three times compared to traditional catalysts. The catalyst's performance is attributed to the robust interaction between titanium dioxide and platinum.
A new alkaline thermal treatment (ATT) technology produces hydrogen from biomass with significant potential for negative carbon emissions. The study highlights the importance of alkali and catalysts in the reaction mechanism, suggesting strategies to enhance efficiency and overcome kinetic limitations.
A research group has successfully developed an adsorbent material that can selectively recover rare earth elements from hot spring water, a process expected to contribute to a metal resource-circulating society. The method uses environmentally friendly and inexpensive materials, such as baker's yeast and trimetaphosphate.
A novel biorefinery process has been developed to minimize the usage of external utilities by reusing by-products from biomass production. The process successfully reduced the total process energy and supplied it by itself, as well as utilizing excess solid by-products for building materials and other purposes.
Scientists found that oxocarbon-based dyes have intermediate electronic configurations between closed-shell and open-shell forms. The study reveals that longer wavelengths of near-infrared light absorption increase the contribution of open-shell forms in the dye.
Researchers developed innovative contrast-enhancing agents to tackle limitations of photoacoustic imaging, including low SNR, image contrast, and targeted delivery. The study suggests promising strategies such as photoswitching agents, near-infrared-II agents, and micromotor agents.
Jefferson Lab has appointed Tim Michalski as its new Engineering Division Manager, overseeing the division's 200 staff members supporting key projects. With extensive experience in engineering and management, Michalski aims to incorporate best practices from previous organizations to drive success.
A new study suggests that a sustainable plastics economy is possible by increasing recycling rates to 74% and using innovative production methods, such as carbon capture and utilization. This would require a fundamental shift in the way plastics are produced, consumed, and disposed of.
A novel deep learning-based forecasting model predicts uncertain parameters related to renewable energy sources, their energy demand, and market prices. The model demonstrates improved prediction accuracy and efficiency compared to existing methods.
Researchers developed a new method for removing bisphenol pollutants and lignin derivatives using activated peroxymonosulfate and photothermal technology. The material, C-defects/C-O band-modified ultrathin porous carbon nitride, has shown faster reaction rates and improved oxidizing ability compared to conventional materials.
Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University developed a new method to evaluate X-ray microbeam diameter using mathematical analysis, outperforming conventional methods. The uniform evaluation method is expected to be widely adopted as an international standard.
Researchers from Tsinghua University develop a new strategy to decouple temperature and pressure in hydrothermal carbonization, breaking the temperature limit. This process produces high-quality carbon microspheres with abundant oxygen-containing functional groups and good thermal stability, suitable for various applications including ...
A research team at Osaka Metropolitan University successfully synthesized fumaric acid from CO2 using sunlight, paving the way for a renewable energy-powered alternative to traditional plastics. The findings could help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable production of biodegradable plastics.
Researchers developed a new method using Bayesian estimation to reduce X-ray fluorescence analysis time from 7 seconds to 3 seconds per measurement point, saving up to 11 hours for large-scale elemental distributions.
The study suggests that increased demand for energy transition metals could be more disruptive to some communities than winding back production of thermal coal. An additional 115.7 million people would be at risk from disruption by ETMs.
University of Missouri engineers are working on a collaborative human-robot order picking system to speed up the online delivery process. The proposed model aims to optimize key decisions in warehouse operations, allowing robots to navigate efficiently and collaborate with humans to increase efficiency.
Chung-Ang University researchers propose a new algorithm, MR-UCB and MR-APE, to tackle stochastic multi-armed bandit problems with heavy-tailed noise distributions. The methods guarantee minimal loss for worst-case scenarios with minimal prior information.