A Binghamton University professor investigates the adaptive response of fire ant rafts to mechanical load, discovering that they exhibit catch bond behavior under force, which enhances cohesion for survival. This phenomenon is being explored to develop artificial materials with autonomous self-strengthening properties.
SourceBinghamton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024
Researchers at Aarhus University have developed a three-stage process to convert polyethylene (PE) into biodegradable polyester, addressing the issue of plastic waste. The method utilizes enzymes, microorganisms, and chemical processes to break down PE's strong carbon bonds.
Researchers use carbon nanotubes to prevent cracking in multilayered composites, improving resistance by up to 60%. This innovation could lead to safer and more durable aircraft with advanced composite materials.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 16, 2024
A new paper by University of Illinois researchers explores the science behind selectivity preferences of monovalent and divalent anions towards redox polymers. They found that solvation plays a role in determining selectivity, and that hydrophobic polymers prefer less solvated anions.
SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalJACS·DateApr 12, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro
Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.
New study uses high-powered microscopy and mathematical theory to unveil nanoscale voids in three dimensions. The findings show a strong correlation between unique physical properties of random empty space and improved filtration performance.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 11, 2024
Researchers have developed a new dural repair solution using a multi-functional biomaterial that addresses key limitations of current methods. The 'Dural Tough Adhesive' (DTA) performed better than currently used surgical sealants in tests using animal models and human-derived tissues.
SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalScience Translational Medicine·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 20, 2024
Researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have created a highly stretchable sensor that can monitor and transmit plant growth information without human intervention. The sensor is resilient to humidity and temperature and can send a wireless signal to a remote monitoring location.
SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalDevice·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 13, 2024
Researchers at MIT developed GastroShield, a sprayable gel that prevents bleeding and leakage from weakened gastrointestinal tissues during endoscopic procedures. The gel forms a protective layer that reinforces tissue integrity and promotes healing.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 12, 2024
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.
Researchers at UNIST have developed a groundbreaking technology that enables the real-time display of colors and shapes through changes in nanostructures. Utilizing block copolymers, they achieved the self-assembly of photonic crystal structures on a large scale, mimicking natural phenomena observed in butterfly wings and bird feathers.
SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 11, 2024
A team of researchers created an optical display technology using afterglow luminescent particles, enabling writing and erasure of messages underwater. The device exhibits resistance to humidity and maintains functionality even when submerged for prolonged periods.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMar 6, 2024
Researchers developed protein-based microcapsules to enhance aptamer sensors, enabling direct detection of target molecules in biological samples. The system demonstrates robust protection against harmful proteins and simultaneous real-time sensing of multiple targets.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalBiosensors and Bioelectronics·DateMar 4, 2024
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.
Researchers have created a galvanized steel coating that reduces corrosion and prevents bacterial growth, improving food safety. The coating decreases bacterial strains over seven days and can be used on grain storage silos and other food-related storage units.
SourceTexas A&M University·JournalJournal of Food Engineering·DateMar 1, 2024
A research team at KTH Royal Institute of Technology developed a simple technique for fabricating electrochemical transistors using standard 3D microprinters, enabling fast prototyping and scaling of bioelectronic devices. The method replaces time-consuming processes requiring expensive cleanroom environments.
SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 26, 2024
Researchers at Aston University will explore gel electrolyte materials to improve lithium-ion batteries' safety and environmental sustainability. The project aims to replace harmful components with renewable ionogels, addressing the need for scalable methods of storing electrical energy.
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.
A new method for phase-modulated stimulated Raman scattering tomography enables rapid, label-free 3D chemical imaging of live cells and tissues. This technique improves lateral resolution and imaging depth compared to conventional methods.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateFeb 22, 2024
Researchers developed a sustainable technique to 3D print multiple dynamic colors from a single ink using UV-assisted direct-ink-write printing. The new method produces structural colors in the visible wavelength spectrum, offering vibrant and potentially more sustainable alternatives.
SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 19, 2024
Researchers create a simple method to instantly bond layers made of the same or different types of hydrogels using a thin film of chitosan. The new approach has potential to broadly advance new biomaterials solutions for multiple unmet clinical needs, including regenerative medicine and surgical care.
SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2024
A small, wearable ultrasound sticker can monitor organ stiffness and detect subtle changes that signal disease progression. The device has been shown to identify early signs of acute liver failure in rats and may one day help doctors diagnose internal organ failure more effectively.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 9, 2024
A new nanocomposite porous antifouling coating has been developed, enabling higher numbers of biomarker-detecting probes and up to 17-fold higher sensitivities than previous best-in-class sensors. This breakthrough broadens the diagnostic horizon for multiplexed electrochemical sensors across multiple diseases.
SourceWyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 8, 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.
Drexel University researchers develop a lightweight alternative to metal components in satellites by coating 3D-printed polymers with MXene, a conductive nanomaterial. The MXene-coated waveguides weigh up to eight times less than traditional aluminum ones and maintain nearly 95% transmission efficiency.
SourceDrexel University·JournalMaterials Today·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2024
The study proposes technical, legal, and economic interventions to transition the global plastics system to net zero emissions by 2050. The authors emphasize the need for concerted action across four target areas: smart materials design, waste management, recycling, and reducing future demand.
Researchers have developed a wearable patch that can detect and respond to human muscle signals, allowing people to control robotic exoskeletons more efficiently. The patch, called SNAP, uses microneedles to pick up tiny signals from muscles and sends them to outside equipment for processing.
SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 31, 2024
Researchers at Linköping University have developed a new, sustainable way to create conductive inks for use in organic electronics. The new process uses benign solvents like water and has been shown to improve material properties and device performance.
SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 22, 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.
Researchers at RIKEN successfully spin artificial spider silk that closely matches natural production, mimicking the complex molecular structure of silk. The eco-friendly innovation has potential benefits for environment and biomedical fields.
Amanda Marciel, assistant professor at Rice University, receives a $670,406 NSF CAREER Award to develop synthetic networks with gel-like softness and high elasticity. Her research aims to create new elastomers with controlled structure-function relationships.
Researchers at the University of Michigan developed a metal-free magnetic gel that can power soft robots and guide medical capsules. The gel's strong, non-toxic magnetism enables flexible robotics applications, while its biodegradable properties make it suitable for medical operations.
Researchers at The University of Tokyo developed a bio-tagging method using dissolvable microneedle arrays for permanent animal identification. The approach, called 'MAPs,' uses customizable molds to tattoo unique identifiers into the skin, offering a safer and more humane alternative to traditional ear tags or RFID chips.
SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 11, 2024
Scientists at the University of Illinois have created polymer networks with dynamic bonds that can selectively absorb specific frequencies of sound and vibrations. This innovative material has the potential to improve hearing protection for individuals exposed to loud noises, such as military personnel or helicopter pilots.
SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 11, 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.
Rice University researchers have developed a new method for making covalent organic frameworks (COFs) that could revolutionize various fields such as energy applications, semiconductor devices, and drug delivery. The fast and low-cost approach uses vapor deposition to produce ordered 2D crystalline COFs.
SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 18, 2023
Researchers developed a new approach to improve particle-reinforced rubber's fatigue threshold by increasing polymer chain length and entanglement density. This multiscale stress deconcentration method increases the material's resistance to crack growth under repeated stretching, reducing pollution from shed rubber particles.
SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalNature·DateDec 14, 2023
Researchers from MIT have developed a new method to integrate fragile 2D materials into devices, opening the path to next-generation devices with unique optical and electronic properties. The technique relies on engineering surface forces available at the nanoscale, allowing for pristine interfaces.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Electronics·DateDec 8, 2023
Drexel University's 'BioFiber' technology uses living tissue systems to stabilize and heal damaged concrete. The system incorporates biomineralizing bacteria that can create a stone-like material to repair cracks in concrete, improving durability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
SourceDrexel University·JournalConstruction and Building Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.
A research team led by Michele Galizia aims to create polymer membranes that can efficiently separate gases, reducing energy consumption. The project has the potential to apply in various fields such as fossil fuels, healthcare, and the airline industry.
Researchers discover chemical injection strengthens sandy soil through increased cohesion and internal friction angle, with no long-term strength loss. The treatment also enhances water-sealing capacity, mitigating flood risks and improving infrastructure durability.
SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalGels·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2023
A new hydrogel drug delivery system has been developed that can transform daily injections of diabetes and weight control drugs into once every four months. The system has shown promising potential in laboratory tests and could improve management of Type 2 diabetes, patient drug compliance, and long-term health outcomes.
SourceStanford University School of Engineering·JournalCell Reports Medicine·DateNov 22, 2023
Researchers from ICIQ describe a circular process to recycle biobased polycarbonates, which can contribute to a more sustainable circular economy. The study uses a multi-task catalyst to promote depolymerization and repolymerization of the polymer.
SourceInstitute of Chemical Research of Catalonia (ICIQ)·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateNov 21, 2023
Engineers at MIT have developed a new laser-based technique to probe metamaterial structures with ultrafast pulses, enabling the dynamic characterization of microscale metamaterials. The LIRAS system excites and measures vibrations in hundreds of miniature structures within minutes, accelerating the discovery of optimal materials for a...
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateNov 15, 2023
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.
Researchers have developed a new self-assembling nanosheet that can create functional and sustainable nanomaterials for various applications. The material is recyclable and can extend the shelf life of consumer products, enabling a sustainable manufacturing approach.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023
Researchers introduced a cost-effective solution to correct tilt and curvature errors in two-photon polymerization 3D printing. The method uses Fourier scatterometry, which offers lower uncertainties than traditional methods, resulting in improved image quality and precision.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateNov 7, 2023
A new polymer binder is introduced to address durability issues in dual-ion batteries. The binder features azide and acrylate groups, which enhance the structural integrity of graphite during charge and discharge cycles. Dual-ion batteries equipped with this binder demonstrate exceptional performance, even after 3,500 recharge cycles.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateNov 1, 2023
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.
A team of researchers developed soft yet durable materials that glow in response to mechanical stress, using single-celled algae and a seaweed-based polymer. The materials demonstrate inherent simplicity, no electronics needed, and can be used as mechanical sensors or soft robotics, while also being resilient and self-sustaining.
SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 20, 2023
Researchers at Georgia Tech have developed new polymer membranes that can improve distillation processes, reducing the global energy and water use. The DUCKY polymers use a novel combination of characteristics to selectively bind desirable molecules, making them a promising solution for industries.
SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 16, 2023
Multistable mechanical metamaterials can switch between multiple stable configurations under external loading, making them reusable and efficient for quick action. Their unique properties make them promising for various engineering applications, including energy absorption, soft actuators/robots, and wave control.
SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateOct 10, 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.
Researchers introduce a game-changing technology that enables fabrication of high-resolution, transformable 3D structures at the micro/nanoscale using Two-photon polymerization-based (TTP-based) 4D printing. The technology has vast potential for applications in biomedicine, flexible electronics, soft robotics, and aerospace.
SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateOct 9, 2023
A University at Buffalo-led research team has created a new, sturdier membrane that can withstand harsh environments associated with industrial separation processes. The membrane, made from an inorganic material called carbon-doped metal oxide, is a potential alternative to energy-intensive processes like distillation and crystallization.
Researchers at Rice University developed a way to convert carbon dioxide into methane using copper-based catalysts. The method relies on electrolysis and involves modifying the distances between copper atoms in polymer templates, which improves the chemical conversion rate.
SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2023
Researchers developed a novel solid-state mechanochemical reaction to synthesize FCMs from PTFE and graphite, producing materials with enhanced storage capacity and electrochemical stability. The new method bypasses toxic reagents and offers a safer alternative for practical applications.
SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateSep 22, 2023
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.
Lehigh University researchers have discovered that applying magnetic forces to individual 'microroller' particles can spur collective motion, allowing the grains to flow uphill, up walls, and climb stairs. This counterintuitive phenomenon has potential applications in mixing, segregating materials, and microrobotics.
SourceLehigh University·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 20, 2023
Researchers found that adding OEG-based side chains to polymer donors enhances the hydrophilicity of the material, improving interactions between the donor and small molecule acceptors. This leads to improved power conversion efficiency and device stability in non-halogenated processing solvents.
SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalNano Research Energy·DateSep 4, 2023
Scientists have engineered trees to be easier to disassemble into simpler building blocks using callose-enriched wood. This approach increases the efficiency of converting woody plant biomass to fuel and other useful products.
SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Plants·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 4, 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.
Researchers at Binghamton University have developed genetically engineered nanovesicles that can target cancer cells more effectively than traditional chemotherapy. These nanocarriers can deliver therapeutic agents directly to the interior of cancer cells, reducing harm to healthy cells and increasing treatment efficacy.
SourceBinghamton University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 15, 2023
Researchers from Aarhus University have developed a simple chemistry method to recycle polyurethane foam from old mattresses, extracting its main components and reusing them as raw materials. The process has been repeated several times, replacing up to 64% of the mattress without impairing quality.
SourceAarhus University·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateAug 1, 2023
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a system that uses fluid mechanics and chemo-mechanical processes to autonomously assemble hierarchical 3D structures. The system utilizes sticky bonds to drive self-organization, allowing for the construction of complex devices with minimal external intervention.
SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalPNAS Nexus·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJul 31, 2023
Researchers investigated the fatigue behavior of 2D hybrid organic-inorganic perovskites (HOIPs), discovering they can survive over one billion cycles, outperforming most polymers under similar loading conditions. The study provides insights into designing and engineering these materials for long-term mechanical durability.
SourceTexas A&M University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJul 25, 2023
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.
Researchers at Nagoya University developed a method to process cholesteric liquid crystals into micrometer-sized spherical particles, creating a unique anti-counterfeiting QR code that can only be displayed under a specific circular polarizer. The use of chirality in these particles enables the creation of more secure codes with potent...
SourceNagoya University·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateJul 14, 2023
Researchers from Japan and Germany have created an eco-friendly light-emitting electrochemical cell using dendrimers combined with biomass-derived cellulose acetate as the electrolyte and a graphene electrode. The device has a long lifespan of over 1000 hours and is environmentally friendly.
SourceKyushu University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 7, 2023
Scientists at the University of Surrey have developed a new degradable adhesive that can dissolve adhesive residue left on recyclable materials, improving recycling processes and product quality. The additive, similar to commercial packaging tape, allows for faster label detachment and reduces environmental impact.
SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 5, 2023
Researchers developed a soft robotic exoskeleton glove using AI to improve hand dexterity and classify song variations. The device provides real-time feedback and adjustments, making it easier for users to grasp correct movement techniques, with an accuracy of 97.13% in classifying correct and incorrect song versions.
SourceFlorida Atlantic University·JournalFrontiers in Robotics and AI·TypeCase study·DateJun 30, 2023
Researchers discovered a way to strengthen polymers by introducing weaker bonds, increasing resistance to tearing up to tenfold. The approach doesn't alter other physical properties and can be used to improve the toughness of other materials like rubber.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateJun 22, 2023
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.
MIT engineers have developed a new technology to probe the connections between the brain and gut, using fibers embedded with sensors and light sources. The researchers demonstrated that they can control neural circuits connecting the gut and brain in mice, inducing feelings of fullness or reward-seeking behavior.
SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biotechnology·DateJun 22, 2023