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Technique could aid mass production of biodegradable plastic

A new technique developed by researchers at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln has improved the properties of plant-derived biodegradable plastic, allowing for large-scale industrial production. The approach involves rapidly heating bio-plastic fibers to high temperatures, resulting in enhanced resistance to heat and moisture.

SourceUniversity of Nebraska-Lincoln·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·DateAug 31, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Print no evil: Three-layer technique helps secure additive manufacturing

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology and Rutgers University have developed a three-layer system to verify that components produced using additive manufacturing have not been compromised. The system uses acoustic and physical techniques to detect malicious activity and quality problems, reducing materials waste.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·DateAug 16, 2017

Defeating cyberattacks on 3-D printers

Experts at Rutgers University-New Brunswick and Georgia Tech have created three methods to defend against sneaky attacks on 3D printers, including detecting malicious fill patterns and printing defects using sensors and high-tech scanning.

SourceRutgers University·DateAug 16, 2017
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.

UTA researchers earn grant to design robot-based vocational assessment, training

Researchers at UTA are developing iWork, a robot-based system that assesses workers' physical, cognitive, and collaborative skills. The system uses advanced computational methods to identify human ability, intent, and potential, providing personalized training solutions for millions of people seeking retraining for manufacturing jobs.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateAug 9, 2017

Smaller, smarter, softer robotic arm for endoscopic surgery

Researchers have developed a hybrid rigid-soft robotic arm for endoscopes with integrated sensing, flexibility, and multiple degrees of freedom. The device is powered by water and features a suction cup-inspired mechanism to safely interact with tissue.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateAug 2, 2017

Tobacco industry steps up tactics to reduce impact of display ban

A University of Stirling study found that tobacco companies are offering retailers cash bonuses and other rewards to promote their brands in Scotland. The researchers discovered that retailers were being incentivized to boost sales of tobacco products despite the ban on open displays.

SourceUniversity of Stirling·JournalTobacco Control·DateJul 31, 2017
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 method promises easier nanoscale manufacturing

Scientists at the University of Chicago have discovered a new way to precisely pattern nanomaterials, enabling the creation of complex structures and paving the way for next-generation electronics. The DOLFIN technology makes it possible to mass-produce nanomaterials directly into usable devices.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalScience·DateJul 27, 2017

Reshaping computer-aided design

Researchers from MIT's CSAIL have developed InstantCAD, a tool that enables designers to interactively edit and optimize CAD models using a streamlined workflow. This allows for real-time improvements and optimizations, reducing the time required to test and refine complex designs.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology, CSAIL·JournalACM Transactions on Graphics·DateJul 24, 2017

Smart sensors could save lives

A team from KAUST developed a cheap, reliable system to signal danger using disposable sensor nodes linked wirelessly to fixed nodes. The system uses 3D printing and inkjet printing to create small sensors that can detect heat, low humidity, and hydrogen sulphide.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateJul 23, 2017

Scientists announce the quest for high-index materials

Researchers systematically examine available high-index materials for their resonances in visible and infrared ranges. Crystalline silicon is identified as the best material for dielectric antennas operating in visible range, while germanium outperforms other materials in infrared band.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalOptica·DateJul 21, 2017

3-D printing sweeps toy manufacturing off the shelves

A study by Michigan Technological University finds that 3-D printing can save consumers up to 90% on toy purchases, with the potential to offset $60 million in annual savings. DIY manufacturing also enables the creation of novel toys and games that are not commercially available.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalTechnologies·DateJul 20, 2017
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.

Nanoparticles could spur better LEDs, invisibility cloaks

A University of Michigan team has created a method to add metallic nanoparticles into semiconductors with virtually no added manufacturing cost. The process enhances LED lighting efficiency and allows for precise control over the distribution of particles, potentially enabling future applications such as invisibility cloaks.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateJul 19, 2017

3-D-printed implants can improve integration of amputee prosthetic devices with bone

Researchers developed two types of titanium implants with fine and coarse textures using electron beam melting and direct metal laser sintering. The study found substantial differences in mechanical testing results, including improved osseointegration and torsional properties for the fine-textured implants.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·Journal3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing·DateJun 29, 2017

Cosmetic complaints climb but products still on market

A new Northwestern University study reveals that cosmetic complaints have more than doubled from 2015 to 2016, with hair care products being the biggest offender. The lack of regulatory scrutiny and poor reporting by consumers and manufacturers lead to significant under-reporting of adverse events, with only 200-400 reported annually

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJun 26, 2017
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

A more safe and efficient means for drug manufacturing

Researchers created a system that uses continuous flow technology to produce pharmaceutical compounds, improving safety and yield. The new approach yielded 24 kilograms of chemotherapy agent prexasertib over three days, demonstrating its effectiveness.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJun 15, 2017

Man(ufacturing) of steel

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are developing new steel alloys for additive manufacturing with a focus on high-strength low-alloy steels suitable for naval construction and repair. The project aims to improve mechanical properties and corrosion resistance using integrated computational materials design.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateJun 13, 2017

Bio-based p-xylene oxidation into terephthalic acid by engineered E. coli

Researchers developed a biocatalytic system to produce terephthalic acid from p-xylene using metabolically engineered E. coli, offering a greener alternative to traditional chemical methods. The resulting yield of 97 mol% demonstrates the feasibility of this bio-based technology for large-scale production.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 4, 2017
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.

3-D-printed polymer stents grow with pediatric patients and biodegrade over time

Researchers developed a novel approach to create self-expandable polymer stents that can grow with pediatric patients, are biodegradable, and require minimally-invasive procedures. The stents were created using computational design, simulation tools, and 3D printing technology.

SourceMary Ann Liebert, Inc./Genetic Engineering News·Journal3D Printing and Additive Manufacturing·DateMay 18, 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.

3-D-printed 'bionic skin' could give robots the sense of touch

Researchers at the University of Minnesota have developed a revolutionary process for 3D printing stretchable electronic sensory devices that can give robots the ability to feel their environment. The discovery also has potential applications for printing electronics on real human skin, enabling new forms of wearable technology.

SourceUniversity of Minnesota·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMay 10, 2017

Manufacturing technique can make proteins less effective

Researchers developed a device to study the effects of 'extensional flow' on proteins, which can lead to reduced effectiveness and aggregation. The device revealed that manufacturing processes can be optimized to reduce protein damage, improving the quality of biopharmaceuticals.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 8, 2017

Researchers invent process to make sustainable rubber, plastics

Researchers have developed a new method to produce butadiene, a key chemical component in plastics and rubber, from biomass-derived sugars. The process, called dehydra-decyclization, uses a novel catalyst to convert sugars into butadiene with high yield and selectivity.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateApr 24, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Graphene 'copy machine' may produce cheap semiconductor wafers

MIT engineers developed a technique using graphene to transfer crystalline patterns onto semiconductor wafers, reducing wafer costs and opening opportunities for exotic materials. The method allows manufacturers to copy and peel off semiconducting layers, reusing the original wafer multiple times.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateApr 19, 2017

Self-assembling polymers provide thin nanowire template

Researchers develop new method to make nanowires with widths below 10 nanometers, using templated assembly and block copolymers. The technique enables mass manufacturing with existing lithographic methods and can be used to create complex patterns for microchip interconnections.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 11, 2017

New research could help speed up the 3-D printing process

Researchers have found that conventional desktop and professional 3D printers build objects at a slow rate of 10-20 cubic centimeters per hour. The team identified a pinch-wheel mechanism as a limitation, which can be improved to increase printing speed.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateApr 4, 2017
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Financialization's negative effect on the American solar industry

A new study reveals that financialization in the US impaired its emerging solar industry, while Japan's photovoltaics manufacturers thrived. This case study highlights the conflicting relationship between finance and production, and calls for policies that bring productive and financial capital together to support low-carbon industries.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 29, 2017

Manufacturing, global trade impair health of people with no stake in either

A study published in Nature found that air pollution mortality is disproportionately felt by people living near producing regions, often far from where goods are consumed. The researchers estimated that 22% of fine-particulate-matter air pollution deaths were related to goods produced elsewhere.

SourceUniversity of California - Irvine·JournalNature·DateMar 29, 2017

Exhaust fumes as a resource

Researchers at FAU have created a method to combine exhaust gas purification with the synthesis of high-value products. Nitrogen oxides can be used to produce balsalazide and sulfasalazine, two drugs for chronic inflammatory bowel diseases.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalChemistry - A European Journal·DateMar 15, 2017
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

The looming threat of Asian tobacco companies to global health

Researchers found Asian tobacco companies are shifting from domestic focus to transnational expansion through government support, manufacturing for export, and new product development. This shift is expected to lead to a further increase in tobacco-related deaths worldwide, totaling six million annually.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalGlobal Public Health·DateMar 15, 2017

Bonding chips using inkjet printers

Researchers at the University of Barcelona have developed a new bonding technique for chips using inkjet printers with silver nanoparticles, enabling the creation of rigid and flexible hybrid circuitry. The method uses inkjet printing technology to assemble surface mount devices, achieving high electrical conductivity and reliability.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateMar 14, 2017

The looming threat of Asian tobacco companies to global health

A study by SFU professor Kelley Lee found that Asian tobacco companies are shifting from a domestic focus to become transnational players, aiming to increase their share of the world market. The companies' business strategies include government-supported consolidation, product innovation and foreign direct investment.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalGlobal Public Health·DateMar 13, 2017

New application of THz technique on water evaluation in crude oil

Researchers developed a novel method using Terahertz spectroscopy and 3D-printing technology to measure water content in crude oil with high accuracy. The technique can be used to continuously monitor moisture content and is suitable for applications even during high-water-bearing periods.

SourceScience China Press·DateMar 13, 2017

New application of the selective laser melting method

Researchers at Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University and Delft University of Technology created a technology for obtaining gradient microstructures in metals, combining properties of two metals for high performance characteristics.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalMaterials & Design·DateMar 10, 2017
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Study: Manufacturing method may help keep work in high-cost areas

A study published in the Journal of Operations Management found that a production system called seru can help manufacturers remain competitive in high-cost markets. Seru is a cellular assembly approach that uses highly trained workers to achieve responsiveness and quality.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalJournal of Operations Management·DateMar 7, 2017

Novel 3-D manufacturing leads to highly complex, bio-like materials

A novel 3D manufacturing method rapidly creates intricate, nanoscale architectures that mimic natural materials like wood and bone. The technique can produce porous structures with high surface area and strength, opening up possibilities for advanced battery technologies and ultrastrong materials.

SourceWashington State University·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 3, 2017

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, March 2017

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed innovative methods for creating complex patterns, accelerating gas separation, and optimizing manufacturing processes. The lab's expertise in additive manufacturing has enabled the rapid prototyping of components, while membrane-based gas separation has shown promising results.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 2, 2017

A SOI wafer is a suitable substrate for gallium nitride crystals

Gallium nitride (GaN) layers grown on SOI wafers exhibit higher crystalline quality and improved breakdown characteristics than those grown on silicon substrates. This enables the use of clearly higher voltages in power electronics and reduces losses and crosstalk in high-frequency applications.

SourceAalto University·JournalSemiconductor Science and Technology·DateMar 2, 2017

Jackfruit seeds could help ease looming cocoa bean shortage

Scientists have identified compounds in jackfruit seeds that mimic chocolate's distinct aroma and flavor, offering a potential solution to the impending cocoa bean shortage. These findings suggest that jackfruit seeds could be used as a substitute for cocoa powder or chocolate manufacturing.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateMar 1, 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.

Sustainable ceramics without a kiln

Material scientists at ETH Zurich have developed a method to manufacture ceramics without heat, using calcium carbonate nanoparticles compacted with water. The resulting material is stronger than concrete and as stiff as stone, with potential applications in sustainable construction and energy storage.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 28, 2017

Study finds consumers willing to pay more for 'all-natural' labeled foods

A study published in the Journal of Food Science found that consumers expect higher quality and are willing to pay more for products labeled as 'all-natural'. The researchers used virtual reality technology to simulate a grocery store taste-test, where subjects preferred the all-natural product with a label.

SourceInstitute of Food Technologists·JournalJournal of Food Science·DateFeb 22, 2017

Printable solar cells just got a little closer

Researchers at the University of Toronto have developed a new chemical reaction that enables the growth of an electron-selective layer made of nanoparticles in solution, directly on top of the electrode. This breakthrough reduces the manufacturing temperature and improves efficiency, paving the way for low-cost, printable solar panels.

SourceUniversity of Toronto Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering·JournalScience·DateFeb 16, 2017

Shock from heart device often triggers further health care needs

Researchers analyzed data from 10,266 patients with ICDs and found that nearly half experienced healthcare-related care after a shock, while one in seven was admitted to the hospital. The average cost of healthcare following an inappropriate shock was $4,470, highlighting the need for smarter ICD programming strategies.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateFeb 14, 2017
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.

Sheet bulk metal forming research gains €4.7 million in funding

Researchers at FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg have developed a new sheet bulk metal forming process that combines two manufacturing methods to create complex functional components with wider applications. The project aims to improve the surface contact, reduce tool wear, and enable batch production for industry partners.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·DateFeb 8, 2017

NASA advances first-ever silicon-based X-ray optic

NASA scientist William Zhang has developed a technique to manufacture lightweight, high-resolution X-ray mirrors using single-crystal silicon, reducing costs and improving resolution. The new technology addresses performance goals that have long been unmet in the field of X-ray optics.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateFeb 7, 2017

Accelerating fuel-efficient car production with disruptive 3-D print process

Engineers at the University of Nottingham are developing lightweight automotive components using selective laser melting (SLM), a disruptive AM technology. This process enables significant weight reductions in mass (40-80 per cent) while optimizing thermo-mechanical performance, leading to increased vehicle efficiency and reduced costs.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·DateJan 19, 2017
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.

Room upgrade programs can increase hotel profits up to 35 percent

Standby upgrade programs can significantly increase hotel revenue by offering premium rooms to myopic guests, leading to a 30-35% revenue gain. Hotels with the right ratio of standard and premium rooms and unique features can benefit from such programs.

SourceInstitute for Operations Research and the Management Sciences·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·DateJan 18, 2017

3-D scans for the automotive industry

The automotive industry is shifting towards more frequent model changes and smaller volumes, requiring increased flexibility in production. Researchers are using 3D scans to generate virtual three-dimensional images of production facilities, simulating how to convert lines for new models.

SourceUniversity of Würzburg·DateJan 13, 2017

3-D printing could transform future membrane technology

Researchers at the University of Bath explore the potential of 3D printing in membrane fabrication, enabling controlled complex pore structures, integrated surface patterns, and membranes based on nature. This breakthrough has significant implications for reducing energy and costs in industries worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalJournal of Membrane Science·DateJan 12, 2017
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Rolling out an e-sticker revolution

Researchers at KAUST develop a process to print high-performance silicon-based computers on soft, sticker-like surfaces for flexible electronics. Decal electronics enable easy integration of device components into compliant systems.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 3, 2017