Articles tagged with Materials Engineering
Researchers propose incorporating a lens made from new artificial materials to boost inductive coupling, increasing wireless power transfer efficiency. This could improve the efficiency of systems like cordless electric toothbrushes and mobile phones.
A University of Washington group has launched a unique Design Help Desk to match science students with design consultants, aiming to improve figure creation and convey complex information clearly. The drop-in clinic offers free service Mondays and Wednesdays, primarily for graduate students in science and engineering.
Expert Rongfang Liu will address concerns about China's high-speed rail development at the Transportation Research Board conference. Her research suggests that investments in high-speed rails can receive adequate returns when linked to investment recovery periods and fare structures corresponding to traveler demographics.
Engineers created graphene's pseudo-piezoelectric behavior by punching triangle-shaped holes into it, producing strong piezoelectricity comparable to well-known substances like quartz. The results have the potential to open new avenues for graphene and applications relying on piezoelectricity.
Researchers have discovered a new method for heating materials and creating new states of matter using proton beams. The high-intensity laser focus enabled the creation of well-focused proton beams with unexpected curved trajectories.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a computational method to quickly identify metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with high potential for natural gas storage. The new algorithm rapidly generates and tests hypothetical MOFs, leading to the discovery of over 300 promising structures.
Sotirios G. Ziavras, a professor at NJIT's Electrical and Computer Engineering department, has received the Excellence in Graduate Instruction Award. He is also an internationally recognized expert in advanced computer architecture, embedded computing systems, and parallel processing.
A KAIST research team developed a biocompatible, flexible GaN LED that can detect prostate cancer, opening the door for implantable biomedical applications. The technology utilizes a highly efficient and flexible light-emitting device to diagnose diseases, potentially revolutionizing medical treatments.
Researchers developed semiconductor materials that detect gamma rays, identifying plutonium and uranium. The method uses dimensional reduction to create heavy elements with immobilized electrons, making them suitable for detection.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory detected radioactive materials from Fukushima in the US, providing insight into the disaster's magnitude. The findings demonstrate huge advancements in nuclear monitoring technology.
A team of bioengineers at Rice University is developing new materials to grow replacement heart valves using gel-like scaffolds that mimic the complex structure and physical properties of heart-valve tissues. The goal is to create living valves that use a patient's own cells, eliminating tissue rejection.
The New Jersey Institute of Technology's Enterprise Development Center (EDC) has secured over $1 million in federal funding for five healthcare innovators. The EDC provided mentorship and support to enable the companies to participate in the Qualifying Therapeutic Discovery Project Grants program.
A University of Oklahoma research team has established a new Center for Interfacial Reaction Engineering, focusing on biofuel and fossil fuel upgrading using revolutionary nanocatalysts. The $2.9M grant will accelerate reactions at the interface of water and oil, creating emulsions for refining processes.
A new study by University of Notre Dame ecologist Jennifer Tank and colleagues found that streams throughout the Midwest receive transgenic materials from corn crop byproducts six months after harvest. The research detected Cry1Ab insecticidal protein in 13% of stream sites and dissolved in 23% of water samples.
Researchers are developing methods to add color to e-reader displays, including simple filters and new electronic ink technologies. Color displays could enhance the user experience and open up new markets for educational materials.
Researchers at Harvard University have developed programmable matter by folding, allowing a single sheet to transform into a boat- or plane-shape. The technology uses origami techniques and features smart cups that can adjust to liquid levels and other tools with multiple functions.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati propose that the structure of vodkas is responsible for variation in taste. The team found that different vodkas have varying levels of a cage-like hydrogen-bonded structure, which could affect the way they are perceived by the palate.
Researchers developed a modified catheter with side holes and slits to reduce the force of contrast material exiting the end hole. The study found a nine to 30 percent reduction in velocity and a more cloud-like dispersal of contrast material, resulting in improved patient safety.
Scientists have engineered a human HIV-1 inhibitor modeled after an owl monkey fusion protein that potently blocks HIV-1 infection. This new treatment showed promise in preventing viral replication in mice and has the potential to be a robust anti-HIV-1 gene therapy candidate.
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has awarded nearly $20 million to Virginia Tech's nuclear engineering program for faculty development and fellowships. The funding will support the growth of a workforce capable of designing, constructing, and operating nuclear facilities.
Researchers have discovered significant differences in the quality of bone-like materials grown from different types of bone cells and stem cells. The study provides insight into how cell sources influence bone quality and brings us closer to developing materials for successful implantation.
Researchers at Yale University have developed a novel approach to deliver small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules using biodegradable nanoparticles, achieving sustained release and effective knockdown of gene activity. This breakthrough holds promise for the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), particularly HPV and HIV.
NJIT has received a $20,000 grant from The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey to teach middle and high school students about nutrition, physical fitness, and healthy lifestyles. This program aims to prevent serious, long-term health problems among teenagers in the community.
University of Florida researchers develop a new approach to lab-on-a-chip technology by harnessing biologically powered molecular forklifts. This innovation allows for the creation of 'smart dust' that can detect biological threats and other contaminants without the need for electricity or rinsing.
Engineers have achieved a new record in efficiency of blue organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), which can produce high-quality white light similar to standard incandescent bulbs. The breakthrough paves the way for more efficient and affordable lighting solutions.
Researchers have developed tools that accurately model the atomic and void structures of amorphous red phosphorus, a network-forming elemental material. These tools will revolutionize the creation of new solar panels, flat-panel displays, optical storage media, and other technological devices.
Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory have successfully engineered two-layer thin films with a nanometer-thin region of superconductivity, elevating the temperature of superconductivity to over 50 kelvin. This achievement brings researchers closer to fabricating useful three-terminal superconducting devices.
This study investigates the 3D rupture conformations of a surface fault under biaxial compression, revealing three stages of crack growth and introducing the concept of anti-wing cracks. The results provide fundamental understanding of surface fault propagation and have significant implications for future studies on active fault movement.
Researchers find that tree canopy-inspired branching design is more efficient than traditional models in controlling liquid flow. The study uses constructal theory to create 'smart' materials with self-healing and self-cooling properties.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania discovered that diamond's slippery behavior is caused by passivation of atomic bonds, not graphite formation. The team found that friction increases dramatically in dry conditions, highlighting the importance of water vapor for optimal performance.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have created materials that can detect TNT and alert to its presence remotely, reducing danger for military personnel. The system uses low-cost, battery-free sensors that emit light when excited by infrared light, which is then detected by a specially-designed light-collection system.
The National Academy of Engineering has released a list of 20th century's greatest engineering achievements. Stanford's William Perry will present this list, along with challenges the engineering field should address in the 21st century, at an upcoming AAAS meeting.
Climate scientist James Hansen receives AAAS Award for Scientific Freedom and Responsibility for his outspoken advocacy on human influence on global climate. The award recognizes his efforts to protect the public's health and safety by communicating openly with the public about critical research findings.
A computer model developed by Dr. David Morton is being expanded to prioritize radiation detector placement in high-risk areas, using data on smugglers' routes, materials, and methods. The goal is to detect nuclear smuggling attempts more effectively.
A team of researchers has explained the discrepancy between computer simulations and experimental observations of protein behavior under mechanical stress. At slower speeds, hydrogen bonds in proteins behave differently, breaking three at a time when pressure is applied slowly.
Engineered nanomaterials can still penetrate deep inside the body, posing a risk to human health. The science suggests that exposures will occur, and understanding toxicity is crucial for resolving concerns about potential harm.
A multi-scale modeling study at Penn reveals a new theory of behavior for domain-wall motion in ferroelectric materials, reproducing experimental data long at odds with existing theories. The study confirms that small dipoles play a key role in smoothing transition regions as the wall moves.
Peter Cummings is being honored for his groundbreaking research in computational nanoscience, which has led to significant advancements in nanotribology, molecular electronics, and hybrid organic-inorganic nanocomposites. His work has the potential to make nanotechnology a practical reality.
Researchers have made a major breakthrough in understanding the unconventional superconductor URu2Si2 by studying its electron movements using neutron probes. The study reveals that the wandering particles work out an unexpected accommodation in the spacing of their energy levels, leading to a more orderly and cooperative behavior.
A University of Wisconsin-Madison scientist has proven that composite materials can be stable even if one component is unstable, allowing for a wider range of properties and improved overall performance. This breakthrough could lead to materials with virtually limitless performance capabilities.
Researchers are developing a new type of memory chip using magnetism instead of electricity, promising faster performance and longer lifespan. This spintronic memory can be written to quickly and won't wear out, making it ideal for reducing power hunger in computers.
Rice University's new global health program aims to equip students with the skills to tackle complex health issues in developing countries, including poverty, access to medicine, and cultural factors. The $2.2M grant will support undergraduate engineering students in designing solutions to these problems.
Researchers discovered ring-like formations in drying DNA droplets that can impact hybridization studies. These formations, created by stresses propagating from the rim inward through a liquid crystal, should be accounted for in array design.
MIT researchers have made a breakthrough in creating morphing vehicles by utilizing rechargeable batteries. The team's innovative approach involves using the expansion and contraction of solid compounds to actuate large-scale structures, allowing for seamless shape changes.
Vorticella's contractile fiber bundle, the spasmoneme, uses calcium as fuel and a powerful centrin-based mechanism to generate enormous forces. Researchers identified centrin as the key component, which is also found in filamentous structures of other organisms.
Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new type of silicon-based modulator that can enable high-speed light connections between chips. This innovation could pave the way for faster data transfer rates and improve performance in computing hardware.
The Center for Engineering Sustainability aims to galvanize engineering programs into action, improving faculty teaching and providing peer-reviewed educational materials. The initiative also plans a nationwide survey to benchmark the status of sustainable engineering education.
The Center for Engineering Sustainability aims to promote sustainable engineering practices among US engineering programs, providing peer-reviewed materials and workshops. With $1.7M NSF & $350K EPA support, the initiative seeks to encourage engineers to incorporate environmental constraints into projects.
AZojomo is the first open-access publishing system to reward authors and peer reviewers with revenue sharing, providing a more inclusive and accessible way for scientists to publish research papers. Peer-reviewed by internationally renowned materials science experts, AZojomo ensures the credibility of published content.
A recent survey of UK scientists suggests a link between success and encouragement, with women performing better than men in some areas. The UK is working to improve these numbers through initiatives like the Athena Project, which aims to promote women's careers in science, engineering, and technology.
A study published in the Royal Society journal explores the impact of global warming on common bird populations. The research demonstrates that the force distributions in random materials can be accurately described by an analogue of the Second Law of Thermodynamics, revealing new applications for this fundamental principle.
Three undergraduate students at the University of Alberta designed a space suit for Mars that balances radiation protection, mobility, and cost efficiency. The suit incorporates new polymeric materials, such as Demron, and innovative designs like ball bearings and compression rings to address the unique challenges of Martian exploration.
For skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports, artificial snow requires realistic look, feel, and action. Machine-made snow uses seed materials to form ice crystals, with popular additives like Snomax and Drift enhancing realism and speed.
Researchers at Brown University and NIST have confirmed and extended Abrikosov's Nobel theory by tracking current eddies in a type II superconductor. The study revealed complex behavior and provided experimental confirmation of Abrikosov's prediction about smooth phase transitions.
A molecular resonant tunneling device has been successfully realized, offering improved efficiency and reduced power consumption in computer architectures. The device, which works at room temperature and on silicon, holds promise for future applications in high-sensitivity sensors.
The Rice Connexions program is expanding its offerings with new software tools and partnerships, making high-quality educational content freely available worldwide. The project aims to empower diverse cultural communities and break down barriers between academic disciplines through a collaborative approach to teaching materials.
Researchers discovered the chemical principles to reorganize liquids, creating new 'symphonic compositions' with desired optical and electronic properties. The team engineered molecules into glasses and liquids, manipulating their structure to produce changes in properties.
The study provides direct measurements of nanoscale forces between cartilage molecules and a tiny probe tip, shedding light on the complex biocomposite material's behavior. The results reveal a mix of electrical repulsive and steric forces contributing to its unique properties.
A virtual community of 26 educators from top universities will create, evaluate, and share effective engineering teaching materials, providing resources for faculty members. The project aims to address challenges in implementing digital learning technologies, including accessibility, quality, and teacher incentives.
Arthur Gossard, a professor at UCSB, has received the James C. McGroddy Prize for his contributions to molecular beam epitaxy, a key technology for compound semiconductors used in wireless and fiber-optic devices. The prize honors his work on device applications and physical understanding of low-dimensional structures.