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What to do with aging solar panels?

A three-year project aims to proactively ensure circularity of solar panels by providing solutions to barriers throughout the supply chain. The team will develop reverse logistics models and next-generation data-driven supply chains for recycling solar panels and reusing critical materials like silicon and silver.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateJan 24, 2025
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Innovative 7-axis synchronization strategy for enhanced laser texturing of freeform surface

Researchers developed a 7-axis synchronization algorithm for freeform surface laser texturing, achieving high efficiency and accuracy without stitching errors. The approach improves processing efficiency by up to 559% and reduces errors by 60%, making it suitable for industrial applications.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJan 22, 2025

UT Arlington powers domestic magnet manufacturing innovation

The University of Texas at Arlington is developing more efficient processes for sourcing rare earth elements needed to produce high-performance magnets. The project aims to make the mining of these critical materials more environmentally sustainable and cost-effective.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateJan 15, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Big firms, big impact: How major exporters drive trade volatility

A study by the University of Surrey and Bank of France reveals that large exporters are a major contributor to global trade fluctuations. The researchers found that these firms are more sensitive to economic shocks and can cause catastrophic declines in exports during crises.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalJournal of International Economics·DateJan 14, 2025

Clay Klein named as 2025 recipient of Nick Cobb Memorial Scholarship

The Nick Cobb Memorial Scholarship honors an exemplary graduate student in the field of lithography. Clay Klein, a PhD candidate at JILA and the University of Colorado, Boulder, will receive the $10,000 award for his research on EUV scatterometry and its applications.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·DateJan 14, 2025

Focal volume optics for composite structuring in transparent solids

Researchers propose a novel strategy for highly controllable micro-nano fabrication using focal volume optics in transparent solids. The approach enables the creation of composite structures with finer structures and tunable properties, opening up new avenues for photonics and nanophotonics applications.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJan 7, 2025
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.

Chung-Ang University researchers develop self-powered tactile sensors for robotics and wearables

Chung-Ang University researchers have developed self-powered tactile sensors for robotics and wearables by introducing novel manufacturing strategies for piezoelectric and triboelectric sensors. These advancements aim to create high-performance sensors capable of multi-modal sensing and real-time interaction.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·TypeLiterature review·DateJan 2, 2025

Miracle, or marginal gain?

A study by MIT economists suggests that industrial policy has a relatively limited impact on GDP growth, with average long-run gains of 1.08% in favorable circumstances. The research indicates that local consumer demand can curb the impact of industrial policy, putting a ceiling on directed growth.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Political Economy·DateDec 18, 2024
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.

Electric vehicle transition could create unwanted air pollution hotspots in China and India

Researchers warn that refining nickel, cobalt, and other minerals for electric vehicle batteries could increase sulfur dioxide emissions by up to 20% in China and India. The study highlights the need for countries to think strategically about building clean supply chains as they develop decarbonization plans.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateDec 16, 2024

Metal scrap upcycled into high-value alloys with solid phase manufacturing

Researchers at PNNL have developed a solid phase alloying process that converts metal scrap into high-performance aluminum products in a single step. The process, called ShAPE, produces high-strength alloys with unique nanostructures and improved properties compared to conventional recycled aluminum.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 12, 2024

ETSU secures $900k defense grant

The US Department of Defense has awarded East Tennessee State University's Research Corporation over $900,000 to create a biomanufacturing facility that turns waste streams into valuable products. The project aims to bolster domestic bioindustrial manufacturing and advance sustainable manufacturing goals in Northeast Tennessee.

SourceEast Tennessee State University·DateDec 4, 2024
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

New PFAS removal process aims to stamp out pollution ahead of semiconductor industry growth

Researchers at the University of Illinois have created an electrochemical strategy to capture, concentrate, and destroy PFAS from water using a single device. The new process combines redox electrodialysis with electrosorption to effectively remove ultra-short-chain PFAS molecules.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 7, 2024

High-performance manufacturing: The leap from “accuracy” to “performance”

High-performance manufacturing (HPM) is a solution to meet the challenges of loading, transmission, conduction, energy conversion and stealth requirements in critical sectors. HPM advocates for a design and manufacturing approach based on scientific modeling and precise control.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateOct 21, 2024

UVA researchers pioneer AI-driven manufacturing efficiency breakthrough

Researchers at UVA have developed an AI-driven system that optimizes manufacturing processes, improving speed and quality while reducing waste. The system uses Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning to coordinate tasks in real-time, leading to faster production and reduced downtime across various industries.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalJournal of Manufacturing Systems·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 16, 2024

Ancient 3D paper art, kirigami, could shape modern wireless technology

Researchers create flexible, lightweight, and durable antennas using kirigami and MXene nanomaterials. The antennas can be adjusted to change transmission frequency by simply pulling or squeezing the shape, making them ideal for soft robotics and aerospace applications.

SourceDrexel University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2024

No bolts about it: New technology improves structural strength

Researchers have developed functional interlocking metasurfaces that offer more structural strength and stability than traditional techniques like bolts and adhesives. These metasurfaces can selectively disengage and re-engage on demand while maintaining consistent joint strength.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalMaterials & Design·DateOct 9, 2024
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.

ASU-led initiative announces first decarbonization projects for US industry

The ASU-led initiative, EPIXC, aims to develop cost-effective technologies to replace fossil fuel-based industrial process heating with clean electricity. Five jump-start projects were selected to advance innovations in electrified industrial process heating, covering various sectors and temperature ranges.

SourceArizona State University·TypeNews article·DateOct 8, 2024

Super-strong bacterial cellulose macrofibers made simple with TAT technique

Researchers have developed a novel method to fabricate high-performance macrofibers with exceptional mechanical properties and humidity response using the TAT technique. The resulting fibers exhibit record tensile strength and rapid actuation in response to environmental moisture, making them ideal for various industries.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2024

How can micro/nanorobots overcome the design and manufacturing bottleneck and drive future technological advancements?

Researchers have identified coupling design methods, composite manufacturing techniques, and future prospects for micro/nanorobots. The review explores three core functions: mobility, controllability, and load capacity, offering insights into designing high-performance MNRs.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateSep 23, 2024

From neutralizing water contamination to creating full-taste, reduced alcohol wine and spirits: success in world first liquid-liquid extraction trial opens up a realm of possibilities

Researchers at the University of Birmingham used Porous Liquids to separate harmful alcohols from water mixtures, consuming up to 88% of the PL pore volume. This innovation can reduce alcohol content in drinks while retaining flavor profiles, aligning with growing consumer demand for low-alcohol beverages.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2024
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.

Constriction junction, do you function?

Scientists from Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed a new type of qubit that can be easily manufactured without sacrificing performance. The constriction junction architecture offers a simpler alternative to traditional SIS junctions, using a thin superconducting wire instead of an insulating layer.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review A·DateSep 18, 2024

New method improves understanding of light-wave propagation in anisotropic materials

Researchers have developed a new technique to study anisotropic materials, capturing full complexity of light behavior in these materials. The method revealed detailed insights into how light scatters differently along various directions within materials, allowing retrieval of scattering tensor coefficients.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateSep 17, 2024

Auto plants grew their workforces after transitioning to electric vehicle production

Researchers at the University of Michigan found that US auto plants producing battery electric vehicles have required a larger workforce than traditional internal combustion engine plants. The study revealed that assembly jobs increased by up to 10 times during the ramp-up stages of transitioning to full-scale EV production, with one p...

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 17, 2024
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.

ZJU researchers address oxidation issue of copper by laser writing towards in-situ integrated sensing

Researchers from Zhejiang University have developed a hybrid laser direct writing technique that enables the creation of functional copper interconnects and carbon-based sensors within a single integrated system. The process allows for real-time temperature monitoring over extended periods, ensuring optimal performance and reliability.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateSep 5, 2024

Texas A&M teams up to advance robotic dexterity

The Human AugmentatioN via Dexterity (HAND) center aims to develop robots capable of enhancing human labor through engineered systems of dexterous robotic hands, AI-powered fine motor skills, and human interface. The center's goal is to make robotic assistance accessible and applicable to a wide range of physical actions.

SourceTexas A&M University·DateAug 29, 2024

Seeing the invisible: How x-ray revealing spatter behavior during 3D printing

Researchers use high-energy synchrotron X-ray to study spatter dynamics during LPBF, revealing links between vapour depression shape and spatter interactions. The study proposes strategies to minimize defects, improving the surface quality of LPBF-manufactured parts.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateAug 27, 2024
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.

Breakthrough in cost-effective production of cultivated meat

A new study demonstrates a cost-effective method for producing cultivated meat, addressing scalability and cost challenges. The continuous manufacturing process enables daily biomass harvests and reduces costs by up to $6.20 per pound, aligning with organic chicken prices.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalNature Food·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 21, 2024
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.

Nanoparticle array implantation for sensitive and reusable detection

A new SERS microfluidic system was developed by Shanghai Jiao Tong University researchers, achieving a detection limit lower than 10 ppt of harmful substances. The system uses femtosecond laser-induced nanoparticle implantation into flexible substrate for sensitive and reusable microfluidics detection.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateAug 18, 2024

UMass Amherst researchers create new method for orchestrating successful collaboration among robots

Researchers developed a learning-based approach called LVWS to schedule robots and enable voluntary waiting, resulting in faster task completion. This method outperformed other approaches by up to 23% suboptimality, demonstrating its potential to improve manufacturing, agriculture, and warehouse automation.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 12, 2024

NUS researchers develop a novel technique to fabricate three-dimensional circuits for advanced electronics

The NUS researchers developed a state-of-the-art technique called CHARM3D to fabricate three-dimensional electronic circuits with high electrical conductivity, self-healing capabilities, and recyclability. This new technique enables the printing of free-standing metallic structures without support materials or external pressure.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Electronics·DateJul 29, 2024
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Advanced printing crafts precision scaffolds for tissue regeneration

Researchers developed core-shell microfibrous scaffolds that excel in rotator cuff repair, restoring natural morphology and mechanical properties. The acellular, in situ tissue engineering technology harnesses stem cell regenerative abilities to provide robust biological regeneration without cell seeding.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJul 24, 2024

Understanding the 3D ice-printing process to create micro-scale structures

Professors Philip LeDuc and Burak Ozdoganlar have developed a novel 3D ice printing technique that enables the creation of micro-scale structures with tailored geometries. Their method uses water as an ink substitute, allowing for the deposition of precise internal voids and channels.

SourceCollege of Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 15, 2024

Self-driving technology: improving safety through sound

A new partnership has developed a functional safety sensing platform based on 3D ultrasound, providing an additional layer of safety and reliability for autonomous vehicles. The technology complements existing systems and enables vehicles to detect their surroundings in real-time, even in extreme conditions.

SourceCranfield University·DateJul 5, 2024
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Chinese cities outsourced on others’ efforts to cut carbon emissions

Researchers found that 240 Chinese cities benefit from carbon mitigation efforts of other cities, with weak beneficiaries having stronger connections to upstream heavy industry cities. Effective emission reduction requires policies addressing distinct city challenges and opportunities.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Cities·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 27, 2024

British conversation is changing: Why people speak more alike today

Research by Lancaster University found that people in higher social grades, including corporate world and education sectors, are adopting each other's speech patterns to be more inclusive. This 'resonance' has increased over the past 20 years, particularly among those with high social status.

SourceLancaster University·JournalApplied Linguistics·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 25, 2024

A novel package for high power density SIC power modules

This study introduces a novel package for high-power density SiC power modules using stacked DBC packaging, enabling the parallel connection of more chips. The design reduces parasitic inductance and increases current carrying capacity, resulting in improved electrical performance and manufacturing efficiency.

SourceCES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems·JournalCES Transactions on Electrical Machines and Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 23, 2024
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Making remanufacturing profitable

Remanufacturing is a process that transforms end-of-life products into new ones, offering economic benefits and environmental advantages. Companies need to invest time and energy to adopt this approach, but it can lead to increased profitability and sustainability.

SourceLinköping University·DateJun 10, 2024

Tiny crop-health sensors could help cut the cost of groceries

Researchers developed a compact sensor system with infrared imaging capabilities that can be fitted to drones for remote crop monitoring. The system can rapidly switch between edge detection and detailed infrared imaging, allowing farmers to pinpoint specific crop needs and boost harvests.

SourceRMIT University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 5, 2024

Researchers use machine learning to detect defects in additive manufacturing

A new method for detecting defects in additively manufactured components uses deep machine learning, generating synthetic defects for training and testing on physical parts. The algorithm accurately identifies hundreds of defects, even those unseen by the model before.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalJournal of Intelligent Manufacturing·DateJun 4, 2024
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.

Altered carbon points toward sustainable manufacturing

Researchers have developed a two-step process to convert carbon dioxide into acetate and ethylene, which can be used in food production and plastics. The tandem CO2 electrolysis produces high concentration and purity, addressing engineering challenges and making the system resilient against industrial impurities.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Chemical Engineering·DateJun 3, 2024

Study suggests ‘biodegradable’ teabags don’t readily deteriorate in the environment and can adversely affect terrestrial species

A new study found that biodegradable teabags made from polylactic acid (PLA) can take years to break down in soil and cause harm to earthworms. The research highlights the need for clear disposal information on product packaging, as many manufacturers are not providing accurate guidance.

SourceUniversity of Plymouth·JournalScience of The Total Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 28, 2024

New technique improves finishing time for 3D printed machine parts

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a technique that automates quality control during the finishing process of 3D printed metal machine parts. This approach allows users to identify potential flaws without removing parts from equipment, making production time more efficient.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalInternational Journal of Manufacturing Technology and Management·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 14, 2024
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Polar-coordinate line-projection light-curing continuous 3D printing for ultra-thin multi-material tubular structures

Researchers developed a novel 3D printing technology that can print multi-material tubular structures as thin as 50 micrometers. The technology, called Polar-coordinate Line-projection Light-curing Production (PLLP), uses a rotating mandrel and patterned light illumination to create complex structures.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateApr 30, 2024