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Fully recyclable printed electronics ditch toxic chemicals for water

Researchers at Duke University have produced the world's first fully recyclable printed electronics that replace hazardous chemicals with water in the fabrication process. The demonstration points to a path towards reducing environmental footprint and human health risks in the electronics industry.

SourceDuke University·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2023

Origami-inspired robots can sense, analyze and act in challenging environments

A UCLA-led team developed foldable robots using conductive materials, overcoming chip weight and rigidity issues. The OrigaMechs can sense, analyze and act with precision in extreme environments, making them suitable for disaster response and space exploration.

SourceUniversity of California - Los Angeles·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 3, 2023
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.

Across the divide: Manufacturing better batteries

The article explores knowledge gaps between laboratory and industrial manufacturing of batteries, highlighting the need for a shift in research priorities. Researchers propose new ways to design experiments that account for industry challenges, such as cost efficiency and impurity tolerance. The study aims to bridge the gap between fun...

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·TypeLiterature review·DateMar 30, 2023

Scientists integrate two-dimensional materials into silicon microchips for advanced data storage and computation

Researchers at King Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST) successfully integrated two-dimensional materials on silicon microchips, achieving high integration density, electronic performance, and yield. The resulting hybrid devices exhibit special electronic properties that enable low-power consumption artificial neural ne...

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature·DateMar 27, 2023

Finding the sweet spot in sugar reductions

Researchers found that marketing diet or sugar-free versions does not increase overall turnover, but reducing package size leads to an increase in sales figures. Smaller packages also work better when marketed as a fun alternative.

SourceUniversiteit van Amsterdam·JournalJournal of Marketing·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMar 24, 2023
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.

Embedding aligned nanofibrous architectures within 3D-printed polycaprolactone scaffolds for directed cellular infiltration and tissue regeneration

Scientists create hybrid composite scaffolds with aligned nanofibrous architectures to improve cell seeding efficiency, proliferation rates, and morphogenesis. The findings have potential applications in tissue repairing and regenerative medicine.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateMar 14, 2023

Some stirring required: fluid mixing enables scalable manufacturing of soft polymer structures

The new technique allows for the production of a dozen different soft polymer material morphologies, including ribbons, nanoscale sheets, rods, and branched particles. By precisely controlling three sets of parameters during manufacturing, researchers can fine-tune the morphology of polymeric materials at the micro- and nano-scale.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2023

Chung-Ang University researchers develop smart portable sensing system for monitoring precast structures during delivery

The novel portable wireless sensing system measures strain and acceleration in real-time, generating a safety assessment report to prevent damage and ensure safe delivery. While effective, the system lacks real-time data management capabilities, requiring future development of a cloud-based monitoring system.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalAutomation in Construction·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 9, 2023
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

A wholly sustainable plastics economy is feasible

A new study suggests that a sustainable plastics economy is possible by increasing recycling rates to 74% and using innovative production methods, such as carbon capture and utilization. This would require a fundamental shift in the way plastics are produced, consumed, and disposed of.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Sustainability·DateMar 6, 2023

How digital twins could protect manufacturers from cyberattacks

A new cybersecurity framework uses digital twin technology, machine learning, and human expertise to detect cyberattacks in manufacturing processes. The framework analyzes continuous data streams from physical machines and their digital twins to identify irregularities and flag potential threats.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalIEEE Transactions on Automation Science and Engineering·DateFeb 23, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Review and outlook of atomic layer deposition for nanoscale oxide semiconductor thin film transistor

The article reviews the outlook of atomic layer deposition (ALD) based oxide semiconductor thin film transistors (TFTs), highlighting four benefits: in-situ composition control, vertical structure engineering, chemical reaction and film properties, and insulator and interface engineering. Despite these advantages, challenging issues re...

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateFeb 20, 2023

The surprising similarities of packed particles

Scientists develop a statistical model to describe how particles of different sizes jam together, revealing a common structure that can improve spatial efficiency in various industries. The study's findings have significant implications for applications involving particulate matter, such as construction, medicine, and food manufacturing.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalPhysical Review Research·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2023
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.

Fiber sensing scientists invent 3D printed fiber microprobe for measuring in vivo biomechanical properties of tissue and even single cell

Researchers at Shenzhen University have developed a compact fiber optical nanomechanical probe (FONP) to measure in vivo biomechanical properties of tissue and even single cells. The high-precision mechanical sensing system enables accurate measurements with spring constants as low as 2.1 nanonewtons.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateFeb 10, 2023

Communities that suffered rapid manufacturing job losses fare worse on sustainability

A study found that communities experiencing sudden and significant job losses in manufacturing are less likely to engage in sustainability planning and meet sustainability-related goals. This is attributed to deep-rooted connections between industry and community identity, making it difficult for these communities to transition.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalEnvironmental Innovation and Societal Transitions·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateFeb 1, 2023

Tracking down fake medicine makers using modern forensic DNA methods

Researchers at Flinders University and Lao-Oxford-Mahosot Hospital-Wellcome Trust Research Unit developed a new DNA tracking technique to identify counterfeit antimalarial medicines. The 'pharmabiome' method analyzes environmental DNA (eDNA) found in fake medicine packaging, revealing differences between genuine and substandard tablets.

SourceFlinders University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeImaging analysis·DateJan 29, 2023
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.

GHz burst mode femtosecond laser pulses can create unique two-dimensional (2D) periodic surface nanostructures

Researchers demonstrate the ability of GHz burst mode femtosecond laser pulses to create unique two-dimensional (2D) periodic surface nanostructures on silicon substrates. The GHz burst mode enhances ablation efficiency and quality compared to conventional single-pulse mode, enabling the formation of distinctive 2D LIPSS.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJan 24, 2023

Manufacturing advances bring material back in vogue

Lithium niobate (LN) is being developed to harness its exceptional properties for diverse future applications. LN photonic chips can transform industries beyond optical fibre communications by detecting signals in the infrared part of the spectrum.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalScience·DateJan 19, 2023

Novel design helps develop powerful microbatteries

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a novel design for powerful microbatteries that can power tiny devices with high voltage and energy density. The batteries, which are hermetically sealed and compact, use innovative packaging technology and dense electrodes to achieve unprecedented performance.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·DateJan 12, 2023

Optical coating approach prevents fogging and unwanted reflections

A new optical coating system combines antifogging and antireflective properties, enhancing the performance of lidar systems and cameras. The technology, developed by Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Optics and Precision Engineering, has been tested in laboratory tests and has shown promising results.

SourceOptica·JournalApplied Optics·DateJan 12, 2023
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Catalyst for more efficient chemical production on the horizon

Scientists at the University of Adelaide have developed a new synthesizing approach to produce customized single-atom catalysts (SACs) using 3D printing techniques. SACs can be tailored for various industrial applications and offer a more cost-effective and simpler alternative to current approaches.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalNature Synthesis·TypeCase study·DateJan 8, 2023

Scientific criteria for assessing the safety of probiotics

A new paper highlights the need for globally harmonized probiotic regulatory approaches, emphasizing the importance of comprehensive genomic characterization. It proposes a risk-tier system based on strain history and genome analysis, recommending more extensive testing for innovative strains before marketing.

SourceInternational Scientific Association for Probiotics and Prebiotics·JournalRegulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology·TypeLiterature review·DateDec 29, 2022

Using additive manufacturing to detect counterfeit parts

Texas A&M researchers have developed a method to embed hidden magnetic tags in metal parts, providing a new tool to combat counterfeited goods. The technique uses metal additive manufacturing to create unique identifiers that can be read using a magnetic sensor device.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateDec 22, 2022

A rough start can lead to a strong bond

Researchers at The University of Tokyo have developed a cheap and simple method to bond polymers to galvanized steel, resulting in lightweight and durable materials. The process involves pre-treating the steel with an acid wash and dipping it in hot water, creating nanoscale needle structures that allow for strong mechanical linkages.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalJournal of Manufacturing Processes·DateDec 21, 2022

POSTECH develops thermally evaporated environment-friendly semiconductors

Researchers at POSTECH developed high-performance n-type semiconductor Bi2S3 and p-type Te semiconductor through thermal evaporation, reducing energy consumption and environmental impact. This method can be integrated into standard OLED manufacturing, lowering production costs and contributing to the growth of sustainable electronics.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 21, 2022
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.

Scientists fabricated highly long-life Li-S batteries based on multifunctional separators functionalized by porous mediators

Researchers fabricated Li-S batteries with ultra-long cycle life over 2000 cycles via multifunctional separator design. The novel hollow and hierarchically porous Fe3O4 nanospheres effectively regulate LiPSs behavior, achieving high sulfur utilization and excellent electrochemical performances.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateDec 15, 2022

Enhancing organic solar cells’ green glow

A team of researchers at KAUST has developed a new method to replace toxic chlorinated solvents with plant-derived alternatives in organic solar cell manufacture. The study reveals that terpene-based solvents can be used without affecting the light-capturing performance of the cells, resulting in an 85% lower carbon footprint.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Energy·DateDec 15, 2022
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.

Bifunctional flexible electrochromic supercapacitors were successfully fabricated

Researchers have successfully fabricated bifunctional flexible electrochromic supercapacitors using silver nanowire flexible transparent electrodes. The devices can exhibit color changes to display energy status, offering potential for smart windows and wearable electronics. With excellent stability and high areal capacitance, these fl...

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateDec 13, 2022

Understand anisotropy dependence of damage evolution and material removal during nanoscratch of MgF2 single crystals

The study investigates the anisotropy dependence of damage evolution and material removal behaviors in ultra-precision machining of MgF2 single crystals. The research team developed a stress field model, revealing that plastic deformation and cleavage fracture mechanisms were activated depending on the crystal orientation.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateDec 12, 2022

Paper-thin solar cell can turn any surface into a power source

MIT engineers create ultralight fabric solar cells that can generate 18 times more power-per-kilogram than conventional solar cells, making them ideal for wearable power fabrics or deployment in remote locations. The technology can be integrated into built environments with minimal installation needs.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalSmall Methods·DateDec 9, 2022

Graphene scientists firstly manufactured a difunctional composite for high-performance Li-S batteries under extremely low temperatures

Researchers developed a novel separator using graphene oxide, acetylene black and polypropylene to suppress lithium polysulfide dissolution and improve lithium-ion transportation. The new separator enables efficient Li-S batteries with better performance and stability.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateDec 8, 2022
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.

Novel 3D printing method to fabricate complex metal–plastic composite structures

Researchers developed a novel 3D printing technique to fabricate complex metal–plastic composite structures with arbitrarily complex shapes. The process, called MM-DLP3DP, allows for the creation of precise metal patterns and high-quality metal coatings, enabling the development of highly integrated and customizable microelectronics.

SourceWaseda University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2022

Engineered proteins: A future treatment option for COVID-19

Researchers at Texas A&M University engineered DARPins to block the interaction between the COVID-19 virus and host cells, significantly reducing disease progression. The nasal sprays showed effectiveness against various variants, including omicron, and could provide a lower-cost therapeutic option for those at high risk.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·DateNov 29, 2022
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.

Making “transport” robots smarter

University of Missouri engineers are working on a collaborative human-robot order picking system to speed up the online delivery process. The proposed model aims to optimize key decisions in warehouse operations, allowing robots to navigate efficiently and collaborate with humans to increase efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Production Economics·DateNov 29, 2022

Advances in research on surface/interface friction behaviors of the metal cutting process

A systematic review of cutting friction behaviors in the metal cutting process reveals its significant impact on tool wear and surface quality. The study contributes to the development of high-quality cutting technology by understanding cutting friction mechanisms, simulation technologies, and anti-friction strategies.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateNov 28, 2022
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.

NTU Singapore scientists convert waste paper into battery parts for smartphones and electric vehicles

Researchers at Nanyang Technological University have developed a technique to convert waste paper into lithium-ion battery electrodes, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing durability. The new method uses carbonisation and laser cutting to create reusable batteries with superior properties.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2022

Key to chemical industries’ sustainable future? The world’s first industrial model of a flow photo-on-demand synthesis system

A new flow photo-on-demand synthesis system using chloroform as a precursor has been successfully developed by researchers at Kobe University. The system achieves high conversion rates and can synthesize various chemical products continuously in large quantities, offering a safe, inexpensive, and environmentally friendly alternative to...

SourceKobe University·JournalOrganic Process Research & Development·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2022
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.

Trial by wind: Testing the heat resistance of carbon fiber-reinforced ultra-high-temperature ceramic matrix composites

The study investigates the degradation of carbon fiber-reinforced ultra-high-temperature ceramic matrix composites at temperatures above 2000°C. The results show that the amount of zirconium in the alloy affects the composite's oxidation resistance, and modifying the matrix composition is necessary to prevent degradation.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of Materials Science·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2022

A new way of fabricating high-efficiency diffraction gratings for astronomical spectroscopy

Researchers develop a new way to manufacture high-efficiency diffraction gratings using reactive ion-plasma etching, achieving near-theoretical unpolarized diffraction efficiency of 94.3%. The process enables robust and durable gratings suitable for harsh environments.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Astronomical Telescopes Instruments and Systems·DateNov 10, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Centimeter-scale multicolor printing with a pixelated optical cavity

Researchers have developed a method for centimeter-scale color printing using grayscale laser writing, achieving vivid and fine-tunable colors. The technique leverages pixelated optical cavities to generate transmission colors with a transmission efficiency of 39-50%.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateNov 10, 2022

Faster and more efficient computer chips thanks to germanium

Researchers at TU Wien have developed a new method for creating high-quality contacts between metal and semiconductor materials, enabling faster and more efficient computer chips. The technology uses crystalline aluminium and a sophisticated silicon-germanium layer system to overcome the problem of oxygen contamination.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalSmall·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2022

Fast burst of infrared light opens a way for 3D processing inside semiconductor chips

Researchers from LP3 Laboratory developed a light-based technique for local material processing in three-dimensional space of semiconductor chips. They successfully fabricated embedded structures inside Si and GaAs materials, which cannot be 3D processed with conventional ultrafast lasers.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateNov 7, 2022
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.

Tracking trust in human-robot work interactions

Researchers at Texas A&M University used functional near-infrared spectroscopy to monitor participant responses during human-robot collaborations. They found that faulty robot actions decreased operator trust and associated it with increased brain activity in the frontal, motor, and visual cortices.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalApplied Ergonomics·DateNov 1, 2022

Self-folding origami honeycombs pave the way to sustainable protective packaging

Researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology created a novel method to produce self-folding origami honeycomb structures using paper sheets, which can provide excellent protection against shocks and compression. The developed technique has potential applications in packaging, agriculture, and other fields.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalMaterials & Design·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2022

Synergetic optimization for reducing residual warpage in laser powder bed fusion

A team of researchers from Japan and the USA have proposed an optimized design strategy for additive manufacturing using laser powder bed fusion. They simultaneously optimized laser hatching orientation and lattice density distribution to minimize residual stress in metal parts, reducing warpage by up to 39%.

SourceWaseda University·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2022