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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

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.

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

Chemical origami yields new plant compounds with therapeutic and economic potential

Researchers developed a method to alter plant enzymes, producing new natural compounds with disease-resistance properties and potentially useful as anti-foaming agents or natural sweeteners. This breakthrough could revolutionize the production of complex compounds in the lab.

SourceIndiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis School of Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 17, 2016

NIST illuminates transfer of nanoscale motion through microscale machine

Researchers at NIST measured the transfer of motion through a microelectromechanical system at nanometer and microradian scales. The study found that play in the joint between links was crucial for the motion's precision, making these systems more reliable. However, adding electrical noise or atmospheric humidity degraded performance.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalMicrosystems & Nanoengineering·DateSep 12, 2016

Chemicals from wood waste

A research team at ETH Zurich has developed a new manufacturing method for succinic acid, a major basic chemical product, using bacteria that convert cellulose from wood waste into glucose. The process is more cost-effective and eco-friendly than traditional oil-based methods.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJun 13, 2016

Liquid by-products from wood and forest industry find use in wood-plastic composites

Researchers at the University of Eastern Finland developed a novel method to add liquid by-products to wood-plastic composites, enhancing their properties. The study also employed PTR-MS to measure volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from WPCs, revealing improvements in water absorption and mechanical properties.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of Thermoplastic Composite Materials·DateJun 3, 2016