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Powering the future: SeoulTech’s breakthrough in vibration energy harvesting

Researchers at SeoulNational University of Science & Technology propose two new designs for energy-efficient vibration energy harvesters that boost power output and efficiency. The designs use a repulsive magnet pair, yoke, and optimized coil placement to maximize magnetic flux change, leading to higher power generation.

SourceSeoul National University of Science & Technology·JournalJournal of Science Advanced Materials and Devices·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 13, 2025

Revolutionizing data centers: Penn engineers’ breakthrough in photonic switching

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science have developed a novel photonic switch that can redirect signals in trillionths of a second with minimal power consumption. The new switch uses non-Hermitian physics and silicon material to achieve unprecedented speed and efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 7, 2025

Highly sensitive transparent ultrasound transducer for photoacoustic and ultrasound endoscopy in live pigs

Researchers developed an ultra-compact transparent ultrasonic transducer for simultaneous high-resolution ultrasound and photoacoustic imaging. This technology improves diagnostic sensitivity by providing detailed information about tissue vasculature, thereby enhancing early cancer detection.

Innovative biomimetic superhydrophobic coating combines repair and buffering properties for superior anti-erosion

Developed by a research team, the DEA coating boasts strong erosion–corrosion resistance thanks to its multi-layer gradient structure and amylose hydrogel layer. The coating can fully repair cracks up to 50 μm wide, significantly reducing erosion rates and offering enhanced protection for underwater pipeline systems.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalEngineering·DateDec 12, 2024

Novel quantum materials in the spotlight

German physicist Christian Schneider has been awarded a European Research Council Consolidator Grant to study the optical properties of two-dimensional materials. His team plans to develop experimental set-ups to investigate the unique properties of these materials, which could lead to new applications in quantum technologies.

UBCO researchers engineer DNA to mimic biological catch bonds

Researchers have developed an artificial adhesion system that closely mimics natural biological interactions, enabling precise control over its strength under varying forces. The innovative 'fish-hook' bond has vast potential in materials science and medicine, inspiring responsive materials and force-sensitive drug delivery systems.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2024

Materials scientist Daniel Oropeza receives prestigious award to advance high-temperature 3D ceramics

Daniel Oropeza, an assistant professor at UC Santa Barbara, has been awarded a $1 million grant to research near-net-shape fabrication of high-density ceramics. His team aims to create complex geometries using a multi-material deposition system and hot pressing, which could lead to the development of new materials for extreme environme...

Physicists develop new method to visualize magnetic nanostructures with high resolution

Researchers at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg have developed a new method to visualize magnetic nanostructures with a resolution of around 70 nanometres. This breakthrough enables the analysis of spintronic components and has significant implications for energy-efficient storage technologies.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 20, 2024

Building roots in glass, a bio-inspired approach to creating 3D microvascular networks using plants and fungi

Researchers at Kyushu University develop a novel technique for building complex 3D microfluidic networks using plant roots and fungal hyphae in silica nanoparticles. This bio-inspired method enables the creation of intricate biological structures, opening new opportunities for research in plant and fungal biology.

SourceKyushu University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 19, 2024

New method of creating ultra-responsive thin films will boost electronics performance and next-generation connectivity

Researchers developed a new method to create ultra-responsive thin films, enhancing wireless communications, electronics, and other technologies. The approach enables faster data transmission speeds and reduced latency, paving the way for next-generation 5G and emerging 6G networks.

SourceAgency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), Singapore·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2024

Versatile deformation of plastics with light

A research group at Chuo University developed a method to induce deformations in polymer materials at specific depths using two-photon absorption. This enables versatile deformations and motions, enhancing the degree of freedom, and contributes to the development of small, lightweight, and soft robots.

SourceChuo University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 7, 2024

Leveraging machine learning to find promising compositions for sodium-ion batteries

A team of scientists leveraged machine learning to find promising compositions for sodium-ion batteries, achieving exceptional energy density. The study trained a model on a database of 100 samples to predict the optimal ratio of elements needed to balance properties like operating voltage and capacity retention.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 5, 2024

Influence of tool corner radius on chip geometrical characteristics of machining Zr-based bulk metallic glass

Researchers investigated the effect of tool corner radius on chip formation in Zr-based bulk metallic glass (BMG) machining. The study found that increasing the corner radius leads to an increase in serrated frequency and secondary shear bands within individual sections, affecting surface quality.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Manufacturing Science and Technology·DateNov 4, 2024

UVA engineering professor secures federal small business grant to improve heat management in advanced microelectronics

Professor Patrick E. Hopkins of UVA School of Engineering and Applied Science has secured a $289,830 Small Business Innovation Research grant to develop a precise tool for measuring heat movement in microchips. The technology will enhance cooling and prevent overheating in next-generation devices.

Discovery of 3,775-year-old preserved log supports ‘wood vaulting’ as a climate solution

A University of Maryland-led study found that burying wood in the right environmental conditions can stop its decomposition and help curb carbon dioxide emissions. The researchers analyzed a 3,775-year-old log and surrounding soil, revealing that it had lost less than 5% carbon dioxide thanks to the low-permeability clay soil.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2024

New recycling process for rare-earth elements could transform green technology and boost carbon neutrality

A new recycling process for rare-earth elements has been developed, promising to significantly advance recycling technology and support global efforts towards carbon neutrality. The selective extraction–evaporation–electrolysis (SEEE) process achieved recovery rates of 96% for neodymium and 91% for dysprosium, with both metals reaching...

SourceEngineering·JournalEngineering·DateSep 26, 2024

UVA develops a ‘Google earth’ view of bone — with an eye toward disease prevention

A University of Virginia engineer developed a workflow to combine advanced imaging technologies for improved understanding of porous bone, which could inform disease detection. The method allows for three-dimensional rendering of bone structure across various length scales.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScientific Reports·TypeImaging analysis·DateSep 25, 2024

Spotlight on ultra-precision machining: Overcoming the challenges of processing silicon carbide single crystals

A recent review paper provides a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art in silicon carbide processing, highlighting key areas requiring further research. The study identifies critical aspects of grinding, lapping, and polishing techniques to overcome the challenges of processing high-quality SiC wafers.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalJournal of Advanced Manufacturing Science and Technology·DateSep 25, 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

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