Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Flame-retardant recyclable epoxy networks: Strategies, mechanisms, and future directions

Researchers have developed strategies to balance fire safety, recyclability, and network stability in flame-retardant recyclable epoxy systems. By integrating dynamic covalent bonds and flame-retardant groups into the epoxy crosslinking network, these systems can improve fire safety and recyclability while maintaining structural integr...

SourceSongshan Lake Materials Laboratory·JournalMaterials Futures·DateNov 25, 2025

Some protective resin coatings may damage metal artifacts

Researchers developed a non-invasive fluorescence imaging strategy to detect early signs of corrosion on iron-containing metal artifacts. The technique confirmed its utility on ancient artifacts, revealing the impact of aging polymer coatings on these treasures.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateApr 23, 2025
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.

Some protective resin coatings may damage metal artifacts

Researchers developed a non-invasive fluorescence imaging strategy to detect early signs of chemical reactions between polymer coatings and iron-containing metals. The technique revealed damaging carboxyl groups that can accelerate rusting on certain artifacts.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateApr 23, 2025

New solvent free 3D printing material could enable biodegradable implants

Researchers at Duke University have developed a polymer that can be used in commercial 3D printers without solvent, leading to major advantages across different applications. The new solvent-free material has been shown to improve mechanical properties while maintaining biodegradability.

SourceDuke University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 28, 2024

Hypersaline brine produced by fracking has left us in a pickle. A new process developed by Lehigh University researchers could help dry it up.

A new process developed by Lehigh University researchers uses evaporative ion exchange (EIX) to concentrate hypersaline brine at room temperature, avoiding scaling and fouling. The process has shown promising results in concentrating salts from hypersaline water, with the potential for widespread use.

SourceLehigh University·JournalNature Water·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 10, 2024

NREL advances method for recyclable wind turbine blades

Researchers at NREL create a novel resin called PECAN that performs on par with industry standards and outperforms certain thermoplastic resins. The process allows for the complete breakdown of blades in six hours, making it possible to recycle and reuse components.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 27, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The application of Sapindus mukurossi extract in sebum-control shampoos

A decolorization process using resin adsorption and oxidative decolorization was developed to address color impact of Sapindus mukurossi extract in high-end products. The extracted SME exhibited stability with no significant color change during long periods at higher temperatures, showcasing sebum-control efficacy.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalJournal of Dermatologic Science and Cosmetic Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2024

Bio-based resins could offer recyclable future for 3D printing

Researchers from the University of Birmingham have designed a new type of recyclable resin made from biosourced materials for use in 3D printing applications. The feedstock is made from lipoic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid molecule, and can be recycled back into its constituent parts.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 15, 2024

Revolutionizing fire safety: the emergence of PA-DAD as a sustainable flame retardant for epoxy resin composites

Researchers have developed a bio-based hyperbranched flame retardant called PA-DAD, which significantly improves the limiting oxygen index values and UL-94 ratings of epoxy resin composites. The addition of PA-DAD also enhances the mechanical properties of EP composites, including tensile, flexural, and impact strengths.

SourceMaximum Academic Press·JournalEmergency Management Science and Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 25, 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.

Research uncovers a rare resin fossil find: A spider that aspires to be an ant

Paleobiologist George Poinar Jr. presents an early record of an ant-mimicking spider in fossilized resin, shedding light on defense strategies and evolutionary processes. The specimen, Myrmarachne colombiana, has developed a remarkable transformation to resemble ants, with adaptations including modified body parts and behavior.

SourceOregon State University·JournalHistorical Biology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 22, 2024

Nucleophilic amino acids as a renewable alternative to petrochemically-derived amines in glycerol epoxy resins

Amino acids from lysine, glutamic acid, leucine, and serine exhibit superior curing properties compared to commercial hardeners. This study demonstrates the potential of these bio-based epoxy curing agents as a renewable alternative to petrochemical-derived amines.

SourceJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·JournalJournal of Bioresources and Bioproducts·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 14, 2024

“Frozen behaviors” in amber fossils – how to reconstruct mating behavior of long-extinct termites

Researchers from OIST used X-ray micro-CT to study a 38 million-year-old termite pair trapped in amber, revealing a male and female in tandem running behavior. The discovery provides new insights into the fidelity of behavior fossilization in amber.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 6, 2024
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.

Ancient chewing gum reveals stone age diet

A new study of ancient DNA in chewed resin from Sweden's Huseby Klev site reveals the diets of 9,700-year-old teenagers, including deer, trout, and hazelnuts. The analysis also shows one individual had severe gum disease.

SourceStockholm University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 18, 2024

Researchers 3D print components for a portable mass spectrometer

MIT researchers successfully produced a miniaturized quadrupole filter using additive manufacturing, achieving precision comparable to commercial-grade filters at a fraction of the cost and weight. This breakthrough enables the development of portable mass spectrometers for rapid chemical analysis in remote settings.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJan 4, 2024

Stronger, stretchier, self-healing plastic

Researchers at University of Tokyo developed a new plastic material called VPR, which can maintain complex shapes, repair itself with heat, and biodegrade in seawater. The material has improved toughness, shape memory, and recyclability.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalACS Materials Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 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.

New epoxy resin resists flames and reduces waste

Researchers from Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA) have developed a fully recyclable, flame-retardant epoxy resin-based plastic. The new material retains excellent thermomechanical properties while being reshaped like a thermoplast due to the addition of a special phosphonate ester molecule.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalChemical Engineering Journal·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 22, 2023

Deadly dust: engineered stone is making California workers sick

Workers cutting, grinding, and polishing artificial-stone slabs for countertops are developing silicosis due to high concentrations of silica and polymer resins. Researchers call for public health measures, including banning the product and improving worker safety.

SourceUniversity of California - San Francisco·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateJul 24, 2023

A novel green photoreactor for the synthesis of desirable chiral enantiomers

A team of Japanese researchers has successfully developed a recycling photoreactor that enables the synthesis of optically pure compounds with high yields, achieving an optical purity of 98-99%. The system uses a two-step rapid photoracemization process and can produce enantiomerically pure chiral sulfoxides in yields higher than 80%.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalThe Journal of Organic Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023
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.

Reduced health risks with new epoxy resin monomer

Researchers at the University of Gothenburg have developed a new epoxy resin monomer based on isosorbide, a substance produced from glucose, to reduce contact allergies. The new monomer is far less allergenic and not based on Bisphenol A (BPA), a known endocrine disruptor.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalChemical Research in Toxicology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 12, 2023

Assessing the accuracy of artery models

Hokkaido University researchers evaluate a material used to build model arteries, finding it suitable for medical education and surgical practice. The study also highlights the potential for improved assessment of 3D printing technology in creating highly accurate models of individual patient's artery structure.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 11, 2023

Mix and match: A new platform for the design of multipigment optical phantoms

Researchers created adaptive optical phantoms by combining multiple pigments to mimic target tissue's optical properties, successfully validating them in extensive experiments. The new platform enables broader band spectra for emerging hybrid modalities and novel instruments.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateFeb 21, 2023

Shellac-based coating makes pulp materials suitable for food without use of petroleum based polymers or metals

Researchers have developed a shellac-based coating to improve the gas barrier properties of moulded pulp materials, making them suitable for food packaging. The coating, combined with nanofibrillated cellulose, provides superior water resistance and thermal stability, while preserving environmental sustainability.

SourceSociety of Chemical Industry·JournalPolymer International·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2023
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.

Affecting baseball friction with different substances

Rosin powder increases friction by over 20%, reducing variation in friction between participants and pitches. A wax-like sticky substance doubles this effect, potentially increasing ball spin rates. The study suggests MLB balls could be made less slippery for improved ball control.

SourceTohoku University·JournalCommunications Materials·DateDec 15, 2022

Uncovering the link between epoxy resins and thermal conductivity

A University of Illinois team discovered liquid crystalline epoxy resins with high thermal conductivity, outperforming common polymers by up to 5 times. The breakthrough was achieved by precisely controlling the lengths of ethylene repeat units in the polymer structure.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 4, 2022

Researchers create biosensor by turning spider silk into optical fiber

A new light-based sensor harnesses the light-guiding properties of spider silk to detect and measure small changes in the refractive index of a biological solution, including glucose and other types of sugar solutions. The sensor is practical, compact, biocompatible, cost-effective, and highly sensitive.

SourceOptica·JournalBiomedical Optics Express·DateAug 2, 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.

University of Houston research allows for 3D printing of 'organic electronics'

The University of Houston research team has successfully developed a method for 3D printing organic semiconductor devices using multiphoton lithography, enabling the creation of highly conductive microstructures. The technology has potential applications in emerging fields such as nanoelectronics and bioelectronics.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 24, 2022

Direct sound printing is a potential game-changer in 3D printing, according to Concordia researchers

Researchers at Concordia University have developed a new platform technology called direct sound printing (DSP), which uses soundwaves to produce new objects. The process creates sonochemical reactions in minuscule cavitation regions, generating pre-designed complex geometries that cannot be made with existing techniques.

SourceConcordia University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 2022
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.

Researchers reveal composition of incense used in Buddhist ritual in Tang Dynasty

Researchers analyzed ancient incense samples from a Tang Dynasty Buddhist temple and found evidence of exotic spices like elemi and frankincense. The findings provide insight into the complex role of incense in religious rituals and court activities during this period.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeMeta-analysis·DateMay 16, 2022

A nontoxic glue for plywood – from glucose, citric acid

Researchers developed a strong, water-resistant wood glue using glucose and citric acid for plywood. The adhesive meets China's standard requirement and is more energy-efficient than traditional adhesives.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 11, 2022

Making 3D printing truly 3D

A group of researchers from Harvard University developed a novel technique to print entire volumes without support structures, eliminating the limitations of traditional layer-by-layer approach. By using an upconversion process and nano capsules, they create self-supporting resin that hardens in three dimensions.

SourceHarvard University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 22, 2022
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.

Creating sustainable material from waste

Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a low-pressure method to convert industrially processed biomass into high-performance plastics and valuable chemicals. The process uses glycerin as a solvent instead of methanol, reducing costs and environmental impact.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalScience Advances·DateJan 20, 2022

Listening to the leaves: Adding bioinspired veins to foamed polymers

A research team at the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology developed a chemical process to mimic trees' vascular systems in foamed polymers, adding structure and enabling directional fluid transport. The team discovered that increasing or decreasing gelation time enables direct control over the foam's cellular structure.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2022

International team of researchers discover first dinosaur era crab fully preserved in amber

A team of scientists has discovered the oldest modern-looking crab, Cretapsara athanata, preserved in 100-million-year-old amber. The fossil is remarkably complete, including delicate tissues and well-developed gills, revealing an aquatic to semi-aquatic animal that defies explanation for its preservation in tree resin.

SourceHarvard University, Department of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 20, 2021
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.

Flower-like nickel phyllosilicate nanoparticles to boost the excellent mechanical, thermal and tribological properties of epoxy nanocomposites

Researchers introduce flower-like nickel phyllosilicates to epoxy resin, enhancing mechanical property, thermal stability, and tribological response. The addition of 5% nanofillers can suppress wear resistance by 86.6%, improving anti-wear properties.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Chemical Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 19, 2021

How green is your plastic?

Researchers develop a one-pot process to synthesize polyacrylates and polymethacrylates from biobased materials, minimizing environmental impact. The new method reduces the E-factor by three quarters, making it more sustainable than traditional plastic production.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJul 20, 2021
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

The future looks bright for infinitely recyclable plastic

A new type of plastic, poly(diketoenamine), can be recycled indefinitely without losing quality, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics. The material's production and recycling processes are designed to be inexpensive and energy-efficient, making it commercially competitive with conventional plastics.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 22, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

3D-printed bioresorbable airway stent

A team of ETH Zurich researchers has developed a 3D-printed bioresorbable airway stent that can be customized to a patient's anatomy. The stents, made from a specially designed resin, are biocompatible and gradually dissolve after implantation.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 3, 2021
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.

Nanocylinder vibrations help quantify polymer curing for 3D printing

NIST researchers use atomic force microscopy with a nanocylinder tip to measure polymer curing rates and diffusion in 3D printing. The study reveals that controlling light exposure conditions is crucial to uniform part production.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalACS Applied Polymer Materials·DateDec 10, 2020

Cannabis strength soars over past half century -- new study

Over the past 50 years, cannabis strength has soared, with THC concentrations increasing by 14% in herbal cannabis and 24% in cannabis resin. This rise in potency is linked to an increased risk of problems such as addiction and psychotic disorders.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalAddiction·DateNov 15, 2020
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.

Water predictions: Telling when a nanolithography mold will break through droplets

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science developed a novel strategy to predict the lifetime of replica molds used in UV-NIL by analyzing changes in the contact angle of water on the mold surface. The method uses commercial camera-based systems and can accurately predict when a mold will break, reducing costs associated with UV-NIL.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalNanomaterials·DateNov 9, 2020

"Immortal" in tree resin

An international team detected DNA from ambrosia beetles trapped in recent tree resin for less than seven years. The study challenges previous fails in finding DNA in older samples and opens up new possibilities for genetic research.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 30, 2020

Salute the venerable ensign wasp, killing cockroaches for 25 million years

Researchers at Oregon State University have identified four new species of parasitic, cockroach-killing ensign wasps that became trapped in tree resin and fossilized into amber 25 million years ago. The discovery reveals the wasps' long history of controlling cockroach populations and sheds light on their behavior.

SourceOregon State University·JournalHistorical Biology·DateSep 28, 2020
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Rapid 3D printing with visible light

Researchers have created photopolymer resins that speed up visible-light curing, enabling faster 3D printing of stiff and soft objects. The optimized mix allows build speeds of up to 1.8 inches per hour, opening up new applications for 3D printing.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateSep 16, 2020