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How to make metal alloys that stand up to hydrogen

A team of MIT researchers has discovered a method to greatly reduce the damaging effects of hydrogen on metal alloys, which are widely used in nuclear reactors and other energy systems. By carefully engineering a layer of zirconium oxide on the surface of the alloy, they can inhibit hydrogen from entering the metal's crystal structure.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Applied·DateMar 29, 2016
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Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Video: Morphing metal shapes future of soft robotics

Cornell University engineers have developed a hybrid material combining stiff metal and soft rubber foam for dynamic shape changes, self-healing and improved load-bearing capabilities. The material features a unique ability to melt and reform, mimicking the flexibility of an octopus.

SourceCornell University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 21, 2016

Ames Laboratory scientists join consortium to research lightweight materials

Scientists at Ames Laboratory will contribute to LightMAT through three core capabilities: powder processing, pilot-scale materials processing, and theoretical alloy development. These efforts aim to develop lighter materials for industries such as transportation, with the goal of improving energy savings and reducing costs.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·DateMar 11, 2016

New synthesis method developed at UEF opens up new possibilities for Li-ion batteries

Researchers at UEF have developed a new synthesis method for Li-ion batteries, which uses readily available materials, is safe to dispose of, and has significantly longer cycle lifetimes. The new method solves the low electric conductivity problem, promising applications in fast-charging electric buses and high-power hybrid vehicles.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalJournal of Alloys and Compounds·DateFeb 17, 2016

Making sense of metallic glass

Researchers at Carnegie Institution explore the rules behind metallic glasses, materials that are stronger and more resistant than traditional metals. By studying alloys under extreme pressures, they found a consistent numeric relationship between structure and properties, which could aid further discovery and synthesis.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 8, 2016
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.

A nanoscale look at why a new alloy is amazingly tough

A Berkeley Lab-led team has identified mechanisms that make the new CrMnFeCoNi alloy incredibly tough and strong at room temperature. The alloy's unique nanoscale mechanisms, including crack bridging and three-dimensional stacking fault defects, work together to resist damage.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 7, 2016

New bimetallic alloy nanoparticles for printed electronic circuits

Researchers at Toyohashi Tech and Duke University developed a new method to produce oxidation-resistant copper alloy nanoparticles, which can be used as the main component of affordable conductive inks. The production process is economical and environmentally friendly, making it suitable for the advancement of printed electronics.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 5, 2016

Nanomagnets: Creating order out of chaos

Researchers from HZDR and TU Dresden have developed a method to fabricate nanomagnets in an iron-aluminum alloy layer without masks. The use of highly focused ion beams enables the generation of complex magnetic geometries suitable for spintronic device applications.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalScientific Reports·DateNov 23, 2015

New metal alloy could yield green cooling technologies

A promising new iron-based alloy has been discovered that can be used in next-generation cooling technologies, offering a more efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional cooling methods. The alloy's use of magnetic fields to change refrigerant temperature holds potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceRochester Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 30, 2015

Single atom alloy platinum-copper catalysts cut costs, boost green technology

Researchers at Tufts University have discovered a new generation of platinum-copper catalysts that can selectively hydrogenate butadiene, a chemical produced in large quantities. The catalysts require low concentrations of platinum and are more cost-effective than traditional palladium-based catalysts.

SourceTufts University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 9, 2015
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.

A metal composite that will (literally) float your boat

Researchers have developed a new metal matrix composite that is so light it can float on water, with potential applications in boat flooring, automobile parts, and buoyancy modules. The composite's high density and strength make it suitable for withstanding rigorous marine conditions.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalInternational Journal of Impact Engineering·DateMay 12, 2015

Electron spin brings order to high entropy alloys

High entropy alloys consist of four or more metals in equal amounts, exhibiting remarkable properties such as hardness and tensile strength at low temperatures. Researchers found that chromium and its spin play key roles in ordering the alloy's composition.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 22, 2015
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 breakthrough in thermoelectric materials

Researchers have created a novel and highly efficient thermoelectric alloy, nearly doubling industry standard efficiency. The new material achieves significant temperature changes, enabling potential applications in electrical vehicles and personal electronic devices.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience·DateApr 2, 2015

'Goldilocks material' could change spintronics

A team at Trinity College in Dublin has discovered a new class of magnetic materials based on Mn-Ga alloys, which could revolutionize data storage and increase wireless data transmission speeds. The material has unique properties that make it immune to external magnetic fields and free from demagnetizing forces.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 24, 2015

Seeing tiny twins

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have made a groundbreaking discovery in the study of nanomaterials, revealing that tiny tungsten crystals can exhibit deformation twinning, which affects their strength and function. This phenomenon has significant implications for the development of nanostructured metals and alloys.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 9, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Microscopy reveals how atom-high steps impede oxidation of metal surfaces

A new study published in PNAS reveals that atomic steps on metal surfaces can slow down oxidation by forcing them to bunch closer together and eventually stopping their growth. This discovery could have significant implications for understanding and controlling oxidation in a wide range of materials.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 29, 2014

Ti-V alloys' superconductivity: Inherent, not accidental

Physicists from India reveal Ti-V alloys' superconductivity is influenced by local magnetic fluctuations and spin fluctuations. The competition between these fluctuations and electron-phonon interaction determines the superconducting temperature threshold, contradicting previous assumptions.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateJun 23, 2014
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.

York physicists pave the way for more energy efficient technology

Researchers from the University of York have created a new class of magnetic materials and devices with improved performance and power efficiency. The breakthrough uses all-optical thermally induced magnetic switching (TIMS) to change the magnetic state of the material, reducing energy consumption.

SourceUniversity of York·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateFeb 28, 2014

Metal in the heart is non-hazardous to health

A long-term study by University of Jena scientists found that nickel-titanium alloy implants release low levels of nickel over time, posing minimal health risk. The research used a longer testing period than usual to examine the metal's behavior and concluded that it is safe for patients with no adverse effects.

SourceFriedrich-Schiller-Universitaet Jena·JournalActa Biomaterialia·DateFeb 18, 2014
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.

Supercomputers join search for 'cheapium'

Duke University researchers used computational methods to identify dozens of new platinum-group alloys that could prove beneficial in applications such as catalytic conversion, corrosion-resistance, and fuel cells. The study provides detailed structural data on known materials and identifies potential targets for further research.

SourceDuke University·JournalPhysics·DateJan 3, 2014
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.

Hybrid heart valve is strong, durable in early tests

Researchers created a three-dimensional cell culture with layers of smooth muscle, connective tissue, and lining cells embedded within a nickel-titanium alloy scaffold. The hybrid heart valve performed well in a heart simulator, opening and closing under various pressures without structural vulnerability.

SourceAmerican Heart Association·DateNov 17, 2013

New aluminum alloy stores hydrogen

A new aluminum-based alloy has been successfully synthesized, enabling safe and efficient hydrogen storage for fuel cell vehicles. Researchers achieved the goal of creating a simple-structured aluminum-based interstitial alloy through extreme pressure and high temperature conditions.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAPL Materials·DateNov 5, 2013

Researchers produce nanostructures with potential to advance energy devices

Arizona State University researchers develop nanostructures through dealloying process, showing promise for lithium-ion batteries with improved energy storage capacity. The porous nanostructures can also improve electrochemical sensing technology and provide more resilient radiation damage-resistant materials.

SourceArizona State University·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 4, 2013
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.

Cool it, quick: Rapid cooling leads to stronger alloys

Researchers develop a new way to rapidly produce high-strength metallic alloys, with potential applications in transport and medical devices. The breakthrough uses Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) system with integrated gas quenching mechanism.

SourceElsevier·JournalMaterials Today·DateJul 10, 2013

Research shows copper destroys norovirus

New research from the University of Southampton reveals copper can rapidly destroy norovirus on surfaces, potentially disrupting infection cycles and lowering outbreak risks. The virus can remain infectious on solid surfaces, but copper alloy surfaces containing over 60% copper prove highly effective in destroying it.

SourceUniversity of Southampton·DateMay 28, 2013

Iron-platinum alloys could be new-generation hard drives

Researchers at UC Davis have developed a new method to create iron-platinum alloys with tailored magnetic properties, making them ideal for future magnetic recording technologies. The alloys retain information even at small nanomagnet sizes and are resistant to heat effects.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMay 20, 2013

Ames Laboratory finds ordered atoms in glass materials

Researchers found local configurations of atoms that tend towards a more ordered structure compared to looking at the whole structure. The underlying order in metallic glasses may hold the key to creating new alloys with specific properties.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 2, 2012
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.

Stars, jets and batteries

Researchers at Helmholtz Association confirm the existence of Tayler instability, a magnetic phenomenon that reduces rotation rates and creates powerful fluid flows. This discovery has significant implications for the development of liquid metal batteries and their potential use in renewable energy storage.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 20, 2012

Miniature Sandia sensors may advance climate studies

Researchers have developed a miniature sensor that uses self-sealing valves to collect pristine atmospheric samples, improving computer climate models. The novel design employs an inexpensive microvalve situated above the sample chamber, allowing for low-cost distribution and minimizing contamination.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateApr 10, 2012

Dual solidification mechanisms of liquid ternary Fe-Cu-Sn alloy

Researchers have developed novel dual solidification mechanisms for a ternary Fe47.5Cu47.5Sn5 peritectic-type alloy, enabling the effective synthesis of advanced materials. The mechanisms involve peritectic solidification at moderate undercoolings and macroscopic phase separation at greater undercoolings.

SourceScience China Press·DateMar 12, 2012

Benefits of single atoms acting as catalysts in hydrogen-related reactions

Researchers at Tufts University discovered that single atoms of palladium can catalyze industrially important chemical reactions, including the hydrogenation of acetylene. The findings offer significant economic and environmental benefits by reducing costs and waste associated with traditional catalysts.

SourceTufts University·JournalScience·DateMar 8, 2012
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.

Novel alloy could produce hydrogen fuel from sunlight

A novel alloy has been developed that can produce hydrogen fuel from sunlight using photoelectrochemical water splitting. The GaN-Sb alloy, made of inexpensive materials, functions as a catalyst in the process and can be reused indefinitely. This discovery could potentially have profound implications for the future of solar energy.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalPhysical Review B·DateAug 30, 2011

The nanoscale secret to stronger alloys

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have discovered a way to create strong, heat-resistant aluminum alloys by controlling nanoparticle size and shape. The alloy's properties are highly dependent on the uniformity of the nanoparticles and their stability when heated.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 7, 2011

Rice discovery points way to graphene circuits

Researchers found a direct relationship between chemical synthesis conditions and graphene alloy electronic properties. This discovery enables precise prediction of final product's properties using well-understood chemical procedures.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateAug 4, 2011
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.

Data miners dig for corrosion resistance

Researchers used data mining to analyze the corrosion-resistant properties of Alloy 22, a key material for nuclear waste containment. They found that the alloy can predict future corrosion patterns under similar environmental conditions.

SourcePenn State·JournalCorrosion Science·DateApr 21, 2011

Rutgers researchers identify materials that may deliver more 'bounce'

Researchers at Rutgers University have identified a class of high-strength metal alloys with potential to improve the performance of engines, medical imaging equipment, security systems, and other applications. These nanostructured metals can convert electrical and magnetic energy into movement or vice-versa.

SourceRutgers University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 9, 2011
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Supercomputer unravels structures in DVD materials

A team of researchers used the Jülich supercomputer to unravel the structures of DVD materials, revealing a new understanding of the read and write processes. The study provides insight into the rapid phase change mechanisms, which could lead to improved storage materials with longer life, larger capacity, or shorter access times.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 9, 2011

New materials could replace costly gold in electrical applications

Researchers at UConn have developed new alloy materials that behave like gold and resist oxidation, reducing reliance on precious metals. These materials improve contact resistance up to one-million-fold over pure base metals, making them a promising alternative for electronic applications.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 14, 2010

New alloys key to efficient energy and lighting

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a new quaternary alloy semiconductor nanowire material that can be used to create more efficient photovoltaic cells and light-emitting diodes. The alloy, which has a wide range of band gaps, can also be used to produce colors for displays.

SourceArizona State University·DateMar 22, 2010

Mismatched alloys are a good match for thermoelectrics

Scientists at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory found that introducing oxygen impurities into highly mismatched alloys can substantially enhance thermoelectric performance. This approach allows for the creation of materials with high thermopower and electric conductivity, promising a breakthrough in green energy production.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 27, 2010
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.

Shape shifters: Researchers create new breed of antennas

Researchers at North Carolina State University have created a new breed of antennas that can be bent, stretched, cut and twisted without breaking. These shape-shifting antennas use an alloy that remains liquid at room temperature, allowing them to retain their mechanical properties and tune into different frequencies by stretching.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateDec 1, 2009

GKSS-Magnesium Award 2009

Dr. Mark Easton received the award for his work on grain refinement and development of new alloys for casting applications. He is recognized for leading teams in Australian and global research communities.

SourceHelmholtz Association·DateOct 29, 2009

Smart memory foam made smarter

Researchers at Northwestern University and Boise State University have developed a less expensive shape-shifting memory foam using a nickel-manganese-gallium alloy. The new material exhibits 'magnetic shape-memory' properties, allowing it to retain its new shape when exposed to a magnetic field.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature Materials·DateSep 23, 2009

Under pressure, atoms make unlikely alloys

Scientists discover that cerium and aluminum can form a previously impossible alloy under extreme pressure, creating new material properties. The delocalized electrons cause the atoms to collapse in volume, allowing them to nestle together and form an alloy.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 2009
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Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.