3D printing 'greener' buildings using local soil
Researchers create load-bearing structure using local soil, reducing carbon footprint and waste. The new material is expected to be used in construction projects and potentially beyond Earth.
Manufacturing
Articles tagged with Manufacturing
SBIR grant fast-tracks 3D-printed runway mat development
Researchers at Purdue University are developing a new 3D-printed runway mat using Phase Transforming Cellular Material (PXCM) geometry. The technology aims to create a robust and self-healing mat that can withstand stresses of repeated aircraft take-offs and landings, reducing the need for frequent repairs.
AI software enables real-time 3D printing quality assessment
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory developed an AI software named Peregrine for powder bed 3D printers, assessing part quality in real-time. The software uses convolutional neural networks to analyze images and detect anomalies, alerting operators for adjustments.
Large-scale COVID-19 vaccine production will require knowledge transfer on manufacturing
The large-scale production of COVID-19 vaccines will necessitate the sharing of manufacturing knowledge to ensure rapid and effective scale-up. This includes disclosure of necessary information from patents, which can facilitate international collaboration and standardization.
Analyzing pros and cons of two composite manufacturing methods
Researchers at the University of Illinois compared two composite manufacturing methods, frontal polymerization and bulk polymerization. Frontal polymerization, a new out-of-autoclave method, offers several advantages, including reduced capital investment, faster curing times, and lower environmental impact.
SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalComposites Science and Technology·DateAug 3, 2020
Surrey's simplified circuit design could revolutionise how wearables are manufactured
Researchers from the University of Surrey have developed a pioneering circuit design using source-gated transistors to create compact circuit blocks. This innovative design improves performance, reduces waste and makes manufacturing more cost-effective.
Carnegie Mellon and CCDC Army Research Laboratory announce cooperative agreement for $25M
CMU's College of Engineering and ARL to lead additive manufacturing research guided by machine learning, addressing scaling up methods and improving equipment ease of use. The program aims to increase mission readiness and resiliency across military platforms and equipment.
Laser inversion enables multi-materials 3D printing
Researchers invent new laser inversion technique to overcome SLS limitations, enabling simultaneous printing of multiple materials. The process allows for stronger, denser materials and complex multi-material parts without assembly, expanding industries such as aerospace, automotive, and robotics.
SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateJul 27, 2020
UTA-based TMAC receives $3.3 million to help Texas businesses during pandemic
The University of Texas at Arlington's (UTA) TMAC has received $3.3 million in federal funding to support small and medium-sized businesses in Texas during the pandemic. The funding will help manufacturers reshore supply chains and restore operations, including those producing health-related products.
Training center to focus on human-robot interaction
The QUT Centre for Robotics will train researchers, engineers, and manufacturers with expertise to boost safety, quality, and productivity. The five-year centre will develop collaborative robotics applications to help Australian manufacturers compete globally.
The road to a battery-powered Europe
European manufacturers are emerging as sustainable successors to combustion engines, with the European Commission investing heavily in initiatives to establish new factories and mining operations across the region. The goal is to create hundreds of thousands of jobs while reducing the carbon footprint of production.
Record efficiency for printed solar cells
Swansea University researchers have reported a record efficiency of 12.2% for four layers of roll-to-roll printed perovskite solar cells (PSCs), marking a significant step towards commercialization. This achievement utilizes the advantages of slot-die coating, which provides controlled wet film thickness and efficient material usage.
Biobased chemicals take center stage
Biobased chemicals are being developed to replace petroleum-based products in various industries, including diapers, electronics, and automotive coatings. These new materials offer improved performance and sustainability, with potential applications in areas such as electronic touchscreen displays and emission-reducing coatings.
A new understanding of protein movement
Engineers from the University of Delaware develop procedure to purify monoclonal antibodies with 43% higher productivity, thanks to understanding of adsorption affinity and its role in protein transport into ion-exchange beads. This breakthrough could lead to reduced waste during expensive drug manufacturing process.
Machine learning reveals vulnerabilities in 3D-printed carbon-fiber composites
A team of researchers from NYU Tandon School of Engineering used machine learning to reverse-engineer 3D-printed composite parts, demonstrating a method to capture fiber orientation with high accuracy. The study highlights the potential risks of intellectual property theft in 3D printing and emphasizes the need for secure toolpaths.
Removing toxic chemicals from water -- New environmentally-friendly method
A breakthrough water treatment method using a solvent-free approach has been developed by Swansea University. The MACS machine manufactures catalysts for ozone, destroying pollutant chemicals such as nitrophenol in water. This technology holds potential to enable radical advances in advanced technology across various disciplines.
Lehigh University awarded state grant to develop coronavirus-killing functional material
Lehigh University has received a state grant to develop a novel polymer coating that can kill coronavirus on surfaces, reducing transmission. The project aims to create a long-lasting, effective coating that can be used in healthcare settings and public spaces.
ExOne licenses ORNL method to 3D print components for refined neutron scattering
A novel method for 3D printing components used in neutron instruments has been licensed to ExOne Company. The collaboration will help develop patent-pending techniques to create lightweight, metal-infused composites ideal for neutron scattering applications.
Pitt engineer maintains a laser focus to grow nanocarbons on flexible devices
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are using a new scalable manufacturing method to create customizable types of nanocarbons directly on flexible materials. This process enables patterning functional nanocarbons needed for emerging flexible-device applications in healthcare, energy, and consumer electronics.
Lehigh University engineers awarded $280K in Manufacturing PA Innovation Program grants
Four Lehigh University researchers have been awarded grants from the Manufacturing PA Innovation Program to support projects in biomedicine, energy, and consumer goods. The recipients will collaborate with industry partners to develop new technologies and processes that foster innovation and develop a 21st-century workforce.
Switching from aluminum to zinc alloys could improve sustainability of automotive parts
A new study by Cranfield University reveals that zinc alloys outperform aluminum and magnesium alloys in terms of sustainability and part lifespan. The research highlights the need for manufacturers to consider the environmental impact of their materials, even if cost is a consideration.
SourceCranfield University·JournalInternational Journal of Sustainable Manufacturing·DateJun 8, 2020
Strategic redundancy can prevent collapse of supply chains during global crises
Companies like Apple and pharmaceutical firms are struggling with disrupted supply chains due to pandemics. Researchers propose a strategy called branching to build multiple branches into value chains, increasing resilience.
Electric pulses precisely shape 3D-printed metal parts
Researchers at Saarland University have developed a non-contact method to transform 3D-printed metal parts into precision-finished components with complex geometries and tight tolerances. The technique combines metal 3D printing and electrochemical machining to produce high-precision functional surfaces.
The future of manufacturing: Software solution predicts costs for manufacturers
Purdue University innovators have developed a predictive cost-modeling tool to help manufacturers better understand overall production costs. The software allows users to vary manufacturing processes and study the effects on total costs.
Material manufacturing from particles takes a giant step forward
Researchers at Aalto University have developed a method to create materials from particles using nanocellulose as a universal binder. The study reveals the ability of nanocelluloses to induce high cohesion in particulate materials, overcoming particle dependency and enabling the creation of materials with predictable properties.
Carbon footprint hotspots: Mapping China's export-driven emissions
A study by University of Michigan researchers maps China's export-driven CO2 emissions to specific coastal manufacturing hubs, revealing that 1% of the country's land area generates 75% of these emissions. The findings highlight key sectors and cities driving climate change.
Liquid metal research invokes 'Terminator' film -- but much friendlier
Researchers developed a liquid metal lattice material that can regain its shape after heating, with potential applications in NASA space missions and private space-faring companies. The material absorbs energy when crushed and can be reused, making it a promising solution for satellite design and future lunar or Martian settlements.
Study analyzes contamination in drug manufacturing plants
The MIT-led consortium analyzed 18 incidents of viral contamination in biopharmaceutical drugs and found that most were caused by Chinese hamster ovary cells. The study recommends companies use rapid virus detection systems and new technologies to inactivate or remove viruses from cell culture media.
Personalized nutrition smart patch to reduce diabetes risk
A new wearable smart patch is being developed to help people personalize their diets and reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The device will measure key dietary biomarkers and send the information to an app, enabling users to precisely track how their bodies respond to different foods.
New Army tech may turn low-cost printers into high-tech producers
The US Army has developed a new type of multi-polymer filament for 3D printing, allowing for the production of high-strength parts at an affordable cost. This breakthrough enables the use of simple printers to create parts with mechanical properties competitive with injection-molded plastics.
Marrying molecular farming and advanced manufacturing to develop a COVID-19 vaccine
Researchers at UC San Diego are developing a COVID-19 vaccine using a plant virus, which can be easily manufactured and distributed globally. The team plans to create slow-release microneedle patches that patients can self-administer, reducing barriers to vaccination in resource-poor areas.
Critical 'starbleed' vulnerability in FPGA chips identified
A critical 'Starbleed' vulnerability in FPGA chips has been discovered, allowing attackers to gain complete control over the chips and their functionalities. The bug is integrated into the hardware and can only be removed by replacing the chips.
Nature publishes review article heralding multispecific drugs as the next wave of drug discovery
Multispecific drugs have the potential to target 85% of currently thought-of-as-undruggable proteins. By inducing proximity between targets and natural enzymes or cells, they can harness biology's power to go beyond conventional drugs.
UMass Amherst engineers, nurses design low-cost face shield PPE for health care
Researchers at UMass Amherst developed a design for protective plastic face shields with clinical feedback from nurses, which can be mass-produced quickly by existing manufacturers. The shields are made from flexible plastic film and have been distributed to medical facilities in the region.
Succeeded in commercial production of natural polymer from Eucommia ulmoides seed peels
Researchers successfully produced high-purity Eucommia elastomer with a molecular weight distribution controllable through a threshing technology, achieving cost reduction by up to 87.5% compared to petroleum-based TPI production.
A lifesaving reason to have more women on boards: ensuring consumer safety
A study by Lehigh University researchers found that firms with female directors announced high-severity product recalls 28 days sooner than all-male boards. This reduction in time translates to a 35% decrease in the overall recall period.
Interactive product labels require new regulations, study warns
A study warns that AI technology on product labels can be used for both producer benefit and consumer advantage. Researchers propose reformed regulations to prevent producers from manipulating consumers' expectations.
Scientists electrify aluminum to speed up important process
Researchers at Ohio State University discovered a method to convert triphenylphosphine oxide into triphenylphosphine by sending an electrical charge through an aluminum container, reducing waste and toxic chemicals. This process has implications for the manufacturing of medications, fertilizers, and other substances.
Machine learning technique sharpens prediction of material's mechanical properties
Scientists developed a hybrid approach combining machine learning with nano-indentation techniques to improve the accuracy of material testing. The new method predicts samples' yield strength up to 20 times more accurately than existing methods.
SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 16, 2020
Pathways toward realizing the promise of all-solid-state batteries
The researchers focus on inorganic solid electrolytes to create stable chemical interfaces, diagnose and characterize batteries in real-time, and design scalable and cost-effective manufacturing processes. Their work aims to address the challenges of all-solid-state batteries and make them safer, longer-lasting, and more energy-dense.
SUTD develops missing link to circular economy while tackling global waste
Researchers at SUTD develop bioplastic production process using urban waste and bio-inspired engineering, enabling global adoption of sustainable manufacturing. The process reduces energy requirements and transportation costs, using abundant biological polymers like chitin and cellulose.
Why are workers getting smaller pieces of the pie?
A new study by MIT economists reveals that the decline in labor's share of GDP is primarily driven by market concentration among large companies. The study found that top firms in various sectors have gained market share, while smaller firms with higher labor shares have lost out.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe Quarterly Journal of Economics·DateMar 11, 2020
Making more MXene
Researchers at Drexel University have developed a lab-scale reactor system that can produce large quantities of MXene in bulk, preserving its unique properties. The system uses a computerized process to refine the material and ensures consistency, a critical step towards achieving manufacturing standards.
Focusing continuity of care on sicker patients can save millions of dollars annually
Research by Southern Methodist University and Texas Tech University found that higher continuity of care leads to improved patient outcomes, including fewer inpatient visits and lower readmission rates. However, at the highest levels of continuity of care, outcomes worsen, suggesting a potential benefit from having multiple providers.
SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·DateMar 9, 2020
Super magnets from a 3D printer
A team of researchers has successfully created super magnets using laser-based 3D printing, allowing for high-density magnet production with tailored magnetic properties. This breakthrough enables precise control over microstructure and geometric requirements, addressing the limitations of traditional manufacturing methods.
Graphene, perovskites, and silicon -- an ideal tandem for efficient solar cells
Researchers successfully combined graphene with tandem perovskite-silicon solar cells to achieve efficiencies of up to 26.3%, almost doubling the efficiency of pure silicon. This new approach enables large-area solar panels with reduced production costs.
The integrated catalysts can simplify pharmaceutical manufacturing
Researchers from Pohang University of Science & Technology developed catalytic nanoreactors that can simplify the manufacturing process of fine chemicals like drugs and medicines. The new catalysts allow for multistep cascade reactions with high yields and optical activity.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateFeb 21, 2020
Where is the greatest risk to our mineral resource supplies?
The USGS report evaluates the global supply of and US demand for 52 mineral commodities between 2007 and 2016, identifying those posing the greatest supply risk. The top-risk minerals include rare earth elements, cobalt, niobium, and tungsten, which are crucial for mobile devices, renewable energy, aerospace, and defense applications.
VCU researchers to develop next-generation, long-lasting batteries
Researchers at Virginia Commonwealth University will develop next-generation rechargeable batteries with a potential 300-500 cycle lifespan. The project aims to reduce costs and safety risks while increasing battery life.
NSF recognizes Ganesh Balasubramanian with CAREER award
Lehigh University's Ganesh Balasubramanian has received an NSF CAREER award to create a predictive framework for manufacturing complex alloys. The project aims to accelerate the manufacturing process by 50% and reduce costs, while also pushing the industry towards smart manufacturing.
New Argonne etching technique could advance the way semiconductor devices are made
Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have developed a new molecular layer etching technique that could help fabricate and control material geometries at the nanoscale. The technique uses pulses of gas to remove thin films, potentially opening new doors in microelectronics and extending beyond traditional Moore's Law scaling.
Increasing number of grocery stores in some areas could reduce food waste up to 9%
Increasing grocery store density in certain areas can drastically decrease food waste, with optimal balance found at moderate store numbers. Studies show that modest increases in store density lead to substantial reductions in waste and lower grocery expenses for households.
SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·DateFeb 12, 2020
Making 3-D printing smarter with machine learning
Researchers at USC Viterbi School of Engineering develop machine learning algorithms to predict shape deviations in 3-D printing, resulting in improved accuracy across various applications and materials. The software tool, PrintFixer, is designed to be accessible to industry professionals and hobbyists alike.
SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalIEEE Transactions on Automation Science and Engineering·DateFeb 11, 2020
New technology could help solve AI's 'memory bottleneck'
Researchers developed a new magnetic memory device that could support the surge of data-centric computing, enabling faster and more secure processing. The device uses antiferromagnetic materials and operates with record-low electrical current to write data.
Researchers develop a roadmap for growth of new solar cells
A new study outlines a roadmap for perovskite-based solar cells to gain traction in the global market. Starting with higher-value niche markets, manufacturers can avoid steep initial capital costs and gradually expand production capabilities.
Scientists offer an inkjet printing technology to make compact, flexible battery elements
Researchers at ITMO University propose a method to print lithium-ion battery electrodes on an inkjet printer, reducing their thickness by 10-20 times. This technology opens new possibilities for compact electronics and transformer devices, which is crucial for the development of foldable and extendable gadgets.
An end-to-end general framework for automatic diagnosis of manufacturing systems
A general framework for automatic diagnosis of manufacturing systems was proposed, using convolutional neural networks to extract hidden degradation features from noisy time-course data. The framework performed well in benchmark applications and can be applied in diverse contexts.
FEFU scientist kicks off developing of photopolymer silicone for 3D printing
A Far Eastern Federal University scientist is working on a new photopolymer silicone that can be quickly cured through UV radiation, enabling complex configurations. The compound aims to overcome the challenges of current silicone printing technology, which is currently unsuitable for producing detailed parts.
Nanospirals that form as molten metals solidify could be key to new materials -- and invisibility
The study reveals an intricate universe of nanoscale rods, sheets and spirals that form spontaneously in eutectic solidification. This discovery could lead to the creation of lightweight alloys and optical products with superior properties.
Sustainable 3D-printed super magnets
Scientists at TU Graz have successfully manufactured super magnets with high relative density and controlled microstructures using 3D printing technology. The developed process enables efficient material use by tailoring magnetic properties according to the application, making it a promising alternative to rare earth metals.