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The future of chip manufacturing

Researchers at MIT have developed a way to improve the resolution of high-speed e-beam lithography, making it more practical for mass production. By using a thinner resist layer and developing the resist with table salt, they were able to achieve resolutions down to nine nanometers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMicroelectronic Engineering·DateJun 30, 2011

Tapping titanium's colorful potential

A cost-effective method for coloring titanium using an electrochemical solution has been developed, enabling over 80 shades of basic colors and crack-free stability. The technology has potential applications in various industries, including healthcare, aviation, and the military.

SourceQueen's University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJun 28, 2011

Concordia research accelerated

Nadia Bhuiyan and Yves Gélinas, two Concordia professors, have received NSERC Discovery Accelerator Supplement awards to advance their research in lean manufacturing and coastal aquatic ecosystems. The awards will support Bhuiyan's study on product development and Gélinas' research on estuaries and microbial composition.

Zeroing in on the elusive green LED

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have developed a new method for manufacturing green-colored LEDs with significantly enhanced light extraction, internal efficiency, and light output. This breakthrough brings the team closer to their goal of developing high-performance, low-cost green LEDs.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 25, 2011

Limit to nanotechnology mass-production?

A leading nanotechnology scientist proposes a 3nm diameter threshold for mass-produced structures, citing unpredictability in bottom-up manufacturing. This challenge raises concerns about the billions invested in nanotechnology research and development.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalNanotechnology·DateApr 20, 2011

Bringing new ideas to fruition

In 'The Art of Invention', Paley explores the essential aspects of creative thinking, from identifying a problem or need to finding an inspired solution. He offers detailed guidance for aspiring inventors and experienced designers alike on conceptualizing ideas and turning them into reality.

Manchester leads green chemical training push

The University of Manchester is leading a €3.7m European Union-funded project to train the next generation of scientists in green manufacturing methods for the chemical industry. The 'BIOTRAINS' programme brings together experts from academia and industry to develop safer and less-environmentally damaging industrial processes.

'Toxic toy crisis' requires fresh solutions

A new analysis by ACS Environmental Science & Technology warns of a toxic toys crisis due to hazardous substances in children's products, including lead and cadmium. The report recommends banning or restricting the use of toxic substances and industry-wide measures to ensure product safety.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateNov 10, 2010

Budget constraints limit FDA inspections

Research reveals that budgetary constraints have led to a less rigorous FDA inspection process, failing to provide necessary oversight and guidance to the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry. This can result in manufacturers taking advantage of the system and prioritizing complaints over addressing actual safety issues.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Business Continuity and Risk Management·DateOct 9, 2010

Building a smaller, lighter future: Understanding polymer behaviors below 1 nanometer

Scientists at Kyoto University have developed a new method to study polymers in confined spaces, revealing unexpected thermal transitions and potential breakthroughs in nanoscale manufacturing. The technique uses porous coordination polymers to trap polymers, allowing researchers to observe their behavior under controlled conditions.

Making serial parts out of metal powder

Researchers at Fraunhofer Institute use selective laser melting to create serial parts out of metal powder, producing high-quality components with improved safety standards. The process reduces manufacturing cycle times by up to 40% and has the potential to decrease material costs by 50%.

PNNL recognized for tech transfer

The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) has been recognized for its partnerships with outside companies to develop new technologies. The lab's partnership with Pressure BioSciences led to the development of a pressurized process that quickly digests proteins, speeding up protein analysis by minutes. Additionally, PNNL partnere...

How size matters for catalysts

Scientists at the University of Utah demonstrated a conclusive link between the size of catalyst particles on a solid surface and their ability to speed chemical reactions. The study focused on metal nanoparticles, finding that smaller sizes lead to increased electronic properties and catalytic activity.

SourceUniversity of Utah·JournalScience·DateNov 5, 2009

Quantum computer chips now 1 step closer to reality

Researchers at Ohio State University have discovered a method to fabricate quantum devices using conventional chip-making techniques, enabling the creation of ultra-low-power computer chips and high-resolution cameras. The development could lead to significant advancements in fields such as medical imaging, security, and public safety.

SourceOhio State University·JournalIEEE Electron Device Letters·DateOct 15, 2009

Nanotech protection

Canadian engineers warn that current safety equipment may not be sufficient to protect workers from nanoprotection risks. The growing field of nanotechnology manufacture poses unknown hazards, and urgent research is needed to develop appropriate protective measures.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Nanotechnology·DateOct 13, 2009