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Major EU grant will make metal alloys the catalysts of the future

Researchers will investigate high-entropy materials to create more sustainable and durable catalysts. The goal is to improve the efficiency of electrocatalysis, paving the way for a new generation of catalysts and reducing the reliance on rare and expensive materials.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·DateNov 1, 2023
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

CityU joint research creates 3D-printed aluminium alloy with unprecedented fatigue resistance

A team of researchers from City University of Hong Kong and Shanghai Jiao Tong University has developed a novel aluminium alloy with unprecedented fatigue resistance using advanced 3D printing techniques. The new alloy, called NTD-Al, surpasses the fatigue strength of high-strength wrought Al alloys and conventional metals.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2023

Design ultra-high temperature high-entropy alloys (HEA) by forming nitride phases: NbMoTaWHfN HEA shows compressive yield strengths of 288 MPa at 1800 °C

A new refractory high-entropy alloy (RHEA) has been designed with nitride phases, exhibiting exceptional compressive yield strengths up to 288 MPa at temperatures between 1000 and 1800 °C. This record-breaking strength surpasses that of most known alloys, including superalloys and refractory metals.

SourceEngineering·JournalEngineering·DateSep 26, 2023
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.

Stabilizing precipitate growth at grain boundaries in alloys

Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified a novel pathway to stabilize nanoscale precipitates in alloys through nonequilibrium processes. By stopping precipitate coarsening, they can create stable nanostructures with improved mechanical properties.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 20, 2023

Golden future for thermoelectrics

Researchers at Vienna University of Technology have discovered a new metallic alloy of nickel and gold that exhibits exceptional thermoelectric properties, enabling high electrical power generation. The alloy outperforms conventional semiconductors in terms of power density and thermoelectric efficiency.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 18, 2023

Stabilizing precipitate growth at grain boundaries in alloys

Researchers have identified a novel pathway to stabilize nanoscale precipitates in alloys by utilizing nonequilibrium processes, stopping coarsening and resulting in stable nanostructures. This approach has potential applications in materials used for nuclear applications, batteries, and other industries.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 17, 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.

Researchers develop a unique quantum mechanical approach to determining metal ductility

Researchers developed a unique approach to predict metal ductility using quantum mechanics, filling the need for an inexpensive and efficient method. The new approach was tested on refractory multi-principal-element alloys and showed robust results, confirming its effectiveness in distinguishing between ductile and brittle materials.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalActa Materialia·DateAug 14, 2023

Artificial intelligence designs advanced materials

Scientists at Max-Planck-Institut für Eisenforschung developed a machine learning model that enhances predictive accuracy in alloy design, uncovering new corrosion-resistant compositions. The model combines numerical and textual data, enabling the identification of optimal alloy formulas.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 11, 2023

AuNi alloy on Au electrodes for hydrogen evolution reaction: towards a cleaner tomorrow

A team from Chiba University created an AuNi alloy on Au electrodes, showing increased hydrogen evolution reaction activity due to surface defects formed through Ni dealloying. The study used X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and surface X-ray diffraction techniques to analyze the surface properties of the AuNi/Au catalyst.

SourceChiba University·JournalChemElectroChem·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2023

Researchers reveal a powerful platform for studying high-entropy alloy electrocatalysis

A collaborative research team created an experimental platform to control the atomic-level structure of high-entropy alloy surfaces and test their catalytic properties. Their study found that the surfaces performed better in oxygen reduction reactions compared to other materials, indicating a 'pseudo-core-shell-like structure' contribu...

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 28, 2023
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.

New robot boosts solar energy research

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new robot called RoboMapper that can conduct experiments more efficiently and sustainably to develop new semiconductor materials. The robot automates the process of testing multiple samples simultaneously, reducing time and energy consumption by nearly 10 times.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 2023

PolyU researchers collaboratively develop high-performance titanium alloys through additive manufacturing

The research team produced a new strong, ductile, and sustainable titanium alloy through additive manufacturing, exhibiting better mechanical performance than traditional methods. This innovation addresses waste management issues in titanium alloy production, enabling recycling of off-grade sponge titanium.

SourceThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 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.

How mercury emissions from industry can be greatly reduced

Scientists at Chalmers University of Technology have created a new method for removing mercury from concentrated sulphuric acid, reducing levels by more than 90%. This innovation could lead to reduced mercury emissions and the production of high-purity, non-toxic products in industries such as mining and metal refining.

SourceChalmers University of Technology·JournalACS ES&T Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 4, 2023

Optimizing the properties and microstructure of bulk superconductors

Japanese researchers develop improved ternary superconductor bulks from liquid sources, demonstrating enhanced performance and microstructural analysis shows significant reductions in secondary phase particle size. The findings have huge potential for applications in magnetic levitation, electric motors, and energy systems.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Alloys and Compounds·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

New ‘designer’ titanium alloys made using 3D printing

Researchers have developed strong and ductile titanium alloys by integrating alloy and 3D-printing process designs, enabling new sustainable applications in aerospace, biomedical, and energy technologies. The breakthrough utilizes circular economy thinking to produce alloys from industrial waste and low-grade materials.

SourceRMIT University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 31, 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.

Discovering a tunable ferromagnetic quasicrystal with high phase purity

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have discovered a novel gold-gallium-dysprosium quasicrystal that exhibits ferromagnetic properties, tunability and high phase purity. The discovery opens up new frontiers in magnetic materials science, with potential applications in spintronics and magnetic data storage.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 2023

Want to make better materials? Read between the lines. Or the “grain boundaries,” as they’re known in materials science.

A team of scientists created a mathematical model that accurately describes microstructures by integrating data from highly magnified images taken during experiments. The findings provide insight into how microstructures change at high temperatures and have implications for the development of new materials.

SourceLehigh University·Journalnpj Computational Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 21, 2023

Novel durable copper-aluminum-zinc shape memory alloys for energy-efficient refrigeration

Scientists at Tokyo University of Science created a fracture-resistant alloy through heat-treatment, exhibiting improved elastocaloric properties and resistance to cyclical loads. The Cu-Zn-Al alloy showed significant increases in grain size, leading to enhanced cooling capabilities and paving the way for innovative refrigeration systems.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalJournal of Physics Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2023

Using artificial intelligence to design innovative materials

Max Planck scientists explore the possibilities of artificial intelligence in materials science, discussing how combining physics-based modeling with AI can unlock complex material designs. The research focuses on overcoming limitations of traditional methods and handling sparse, noisy data.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature Computational Science·TypeSystematic review·DateApr 3, 2023
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.

Highly transparent electrodes for deep-UV light emitting diode applications

Scientists from Tokyo Metropolitan University have developed a new electrode material for deep-ultraviolet light-emitting diode applications, combining excellent electrical conductivity with unprecedented transparency. The new electrodes promise to impact industry by enabling more efficient and compact light sources for sterilization p...

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateJan 21, 2023

Tens of thousands of feasible catalysts on the diameter of a hair

Scientists at Ruhr-University Bochum develop a technique to create complete five-element material systems on a carrier roughly the size of a human hair. This enables them to efficiently search for new catalysts with high catalytic activity, crucial for environmentally friendly energy conversion processes.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 16, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

CityU develops two novel hydrogen production catalysts based on mineral gel and "crystalline-amorphous" dual-phase nano-aluminium alloy

Researchers from City University of Hong Kong developed a new ultra-stable hydrogen evolution reaction electrocatalyst based on two-dimensional mineral gel nanosheets. The catalyst exhibits excellent electrocatalytic activity and long-term durability, with an overpotential of only 38.5 mV at 10 mA cm−2.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2022

Bringing the Kelvin problem solutions to life with the first-ever polymeric Weaire-Phelan structures

A Japanese research team successfully constructed the first polymeric Weaire-Phelan structure, a previously theoretical form predicted to be the most efficient solution for a century-old tessellation problem. The structure was achieved through a novel polymerization-induced phase separation method.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 28, 2022

A closer look at the dynamics of the p-Laplacian Allen–Cahn equation

A team of researchers from Korea investigated the dynamics of the p-Laplacian AC equation, finding that solutions maintain three criteria: phase separation, boundedness, and energy decay properties. They also identified an advantage of p-AC equation over classical Laplacian in adjusting interface sharpness.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalApplied Mathematics and Computation·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2022
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.

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

New strategy to effectively prevent component failures in metals

A new strategy has been developed to inhibit creep in metals by creating stable grain boundary networks. This approach enhances creep resistance, outperforming conventional superalloys. The research aims to improve high-temperature creep resistance in advanced alloys for industries such as energy and chemical processing.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·DateNov 11, 2022
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.

A cooler approach to making new materials that can stand the heat

Lehigh University researchers have developed a new fabrication method for high-entropy alloys that can operate in extreme temperatures. The process uses lower temperatures and a different reaction route to achieve a more homogenous microstructure, potentially leading to the development of more efficient materials for aerospace and indu...

SourceLehigh University·DateNov 1, 2022

What if ceramics were ductile?

Researchers have discovered a way to create ductile ceramics that can exhibit ultimate strength of up to 11 GPa, potentially leading to improved energy efficiency and reduced material usage. However, further studies are needed to scale up the process and apply it to larger materials.

SourceTampere University·JournalScience·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateOct 27, 2022

How Imperfections can actually improve alloys

Using transformation-induced plasticity (TRIP) and twinning-induced plasticity (TWIP), researchers design metastable alloys that can overcome the strength-ductility trade-off. The resulting materials are self-strengthening, making them suitable for applications such as earthquake construction, naval ships, and aerospace.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 26, 2022

Miniature permanent magnets can be printed on a 3D printer

Scientists have successfully printed thin, one-millimeter-thick permanent magnets using selective laser sintering, retaining suitable characteristics for industrial use. This breakthrough enables complex magnet configurations necessary for pacemakers and minimizes production waste.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalJournal of Magnetism and Magnetic Materials·DateOct 17, 2022
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.

Mystery of this champion metallic glass uncovered

A team of researchers led by Prof. Shinya Hosokawa analyzed the atomic configurations of Pd42.5Ni7.5Cu30P20, a champion bulk metallic glass, and found its characteristic configurations that lead to its excellent glass-forming ability.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalJournal of Non-Crystalline Solids·TypeObservational study·DateSep 25, 2022

£1.2m grant to revolutionise product design and manufacturing

Researchers aim to create crack-resistant, uniform materials with reduced residual stresses and porosity for use in AM. The project will combine the best processing features of existing alloys groups, resulting in lightweight, rigid, and thermally stable components.

SourceOxford Brookes University·DateSep 5, 2022

Advanced material will allow to move heavy objects in harsh environments

Researchers have improved a magnetostrictive material that can withstand extremely low temperatures and is suitable for use in space. The compound, which includes terbium and iron, exhibits high magnetostriction values even at liquid nitrogen temperatures, making it ideal for controlling the position of space telescopes.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalJournal of Alloys and Compounds·DateAug 18, 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.

Atomic displacements in high-entropy alloys examined

Scientists investigated the local structure of a high-entropy Cantor alloy using X-ray absorption spectroscopy, revealing structural relaxations in chromium atoms and no evidence of secondary phases. The study correlated these findings with macroscopic magnetic properties.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalJournal of Alloys and Compounds·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 22, 2022

Research paves the way for stronger alloys

Scientists have discovered how microscopic crystals grow and change shape in molten metals as they cool, leading to a better understanding of the tensile strength of alloys. The research, published in Acta Materialia, used high-speed synchrotron X-ray tomography to study the changing crystal structures in molten alloys.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalActa Materialia·TypeObservational study·DateJun 1, 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.

New shape memory alloy discovered through artificial intelligence framework

Researchers at Texas A&M University used an Artificial Intelligence Materials Selection framework to discover a new shape memory alloy with the highest efficiency ever recorded. The alloy's narrow transformation temperature window and high cyclic stability make it ideal for thermal energy harvesting and storage.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalActa Materialia·TypeNews article·DateMay 5, 2022

Mathematical model will accelerate creation of alloys with specified properties

Researchers at Ural Federal University have developed a method to significantly accelerate the synthesis of aluminum-based alloys using computer modeling. The new approach allows for control over the internal structure and physical properties of the alloy, enabling the creation of materials with desired characteristics.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalJournal of Physics Condensed Matter·DateMar 21, 2022

Seeing below the surface of bimetallic nanoparticles

Researchers from Osaka University report a new technique for tracking the synthesis of core–shell bimetallic nanoparticles in real time, allowing for fine-tuning of nanomaterial preparation. The technique uses a piezoelectric resonator to monitor particle shape changes and track interdiffusion of metals.

SourceOsaka University·JournalPhysical Review B·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 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.

Reducing carbon emissions of C&D waste in building refurbishment

Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University provide valuable insights on managing C&D waste and reducing carbon emissions in building refurbishment projects. By upcycling generated waste, carbon emissions can be significantly reduced, with a potential reduction of around 40% compared to traditional practices.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalEnvironmental Science and Pollution Research·TypeCase study·DateFeb 23, 2022

World-first: Speed of sound used to measure elasticity of materials

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have developed a groundbreaking technology to measure the microscopic elasticity of materials. By analyzing the speed of sound across the material's surface, they can reveal the orientation and inherent stiffness of small crystals, which is essential for material performance.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalActa Materialia·DateFeb 15, 2022

Super-elastic high-entropy Elinvar alloy discovered with potential for aerospace engineering

Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have discovered a super-elastic high-entropy Elinvar alloy that retains its stiffness even after being heated to 1000 K. The alloy's unique structure and chemical composition allow it to store a large amount of elastic energy, making it suitable for high-precision devices in aerospace enginee...

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2022
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.

Researchers presented the best ways to reduce of tool wear in the machining of superalloys

Researchers from South Ural State University and international universities reviewed over 200 sources to identify parameters that extend tool life in superalloys. The study suggests various methods, including tool tip texturing, flood cooling, and hybrid machining, to reduce wear and improve surface integrity.

SourceSouth Ural State University·JournalCIRP Journal of Manufacturing Science and Technology·DateNov 29, 2021