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Thin films “dance” with substrates that are no longer inert

Physicists at the University of California San Diego discovered that substrates are not inert when subjected to electrical stimulus, instead coupling with thin film. This finding has implications for building brain-inspired computer chips needed for energy-efficient computing.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 27, 2026

Shaping luminescence in 3D: Advanced fabrication of YAG:Ce³⁺ microstructures

Scientists create microscopic 3D light-emitting ceramic structures using chemical synthesis and advanced laser-based 3D printing, enabling the fabrication of single-phase crystalline YAG:Ce³⁺ with high precision. This technology has the potential to transform the design and manufacturing of optical devices, leading to more energy-effic...

SourceEditorial Office of Opto-Electronic Journals Group·JournalOpto-Electronic Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 18, 2026
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.

Breakthrough proton-conducting ceramic material for clean energy

A new ceramic material overcomes long-standing limits in proton conductivity, achieving record-high performance at intermediate temperatures. The innovative donor co-doping strategy combines increased proton concentration and mobility with chemical stability under various environments.

SourceInstitute of Science Tokyo·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 12, 2026
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

A researcher’s long quest leads to a smart composite breakthrough

Researchers have developed a strong, defect-free composite material that can phase-shift under stress to dissipate energy. The material, created using additive friction stir deposition, has potential applications in defense, infrastructure, aerospace, and sporting equipment.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalMaterials Science and Engineering R Reports·DateDec 23, 2025

Unlocking ceramic 3D printing for next-generation chemical reactors

Researchers developed a scalable method for creating complex ceramic structures using binder jet additive manufacturing and advanced post-processing techniques. This innovation enables the production of high-quality, leak-proof components for critical applications like pharmaceutical or chemical processing.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalCeramics International·DateSep 17, 2025
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.

Study reveals how nitrogen atmosphere enhances performance of iron-biochar catalysts in wastewater treatment

Researchers found iron-biochar composites milled in a nitrogen atmosphere exhibit superior catalytic performance for degrading organic pollutants. The composite achieved a phenol removal rate of 90.3% when used to activate persulfate, outperforming those milled in air or vacuum.

SourceBiochar Editorial Office, Shenyang Agricultural University·JournalBiochar·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 14, 2025

Magnetically guided nanobots for tooth sensitivity relief

Researchers have engineered CalBots, magnetic nanobots that can penetrate dentinal tubules and form durable seals, offering lasting relief from sensitivity. The study uses a new class of bioceramic cement to create a regenerative, active nanomaterial with potential implications for future healthcare.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateAug 11, 2025

Printing uniform, high-strength SiC ceramics at 1100 °C in one step

Researchers developed a new 3D printing method that creates strong, high-quality silicon carbide (SiC) ceramic parts at lower temperatures. The method uses vat-polymerization and adds silica to improve material quality, resulting in comparable strength to ceramics sintered at higher temperatures.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJul 28, 2025

Improving how we design materials

Advanced computer simulations reveal shear deformations and internal mechanical stresses play a crucial role in grain growth and evolution. This discovery helps explain why real polycrystals behave differently than predicted and offers insights into designing stronger materials.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJun 26, 2025

Laser technique revolutionizes ultra-high temperature ceramic manufacturing for space, defense applications

Researchers have demonstrated a new technique using lasers to create ceramics that can withstand ultra-high temperatures. The technique allows for the creation of ceramic coatings, tiles, or complex three-dimensional structures, enabling increased versatility in engineering new devices and technologies.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of the American Ceramic Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 29, 2025
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Building material for an ancient metropolis

Researchers from Goethe University Frankfurt and LEIZA aim to analyze 4,000 stamped bricks from the Roman period to gain insights into brick production and use in ancient Trier. The study may reveal previously unknown construction projects and provide a model for integrating archaeological and archaeometric methodologies.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·DateApr 7, 2025
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

UVA receives DURIP grant for cutting-edge ceramic research system

The University of Virginia has been awarded a $318,190 grant to develop an electromagnetic levitation system for studying ultra-high-temperature ceramics. This system enables researchers to study materials in their solid and molten states, unlocking new possibilities for aerospace, defense, and industrial applications.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·DateJan 14, 2025

Small changes can dramatically boost efficacy of piezoceramics

By reducing the thickness of a commonly-used piezoelectric ceramic material, researchers at Indian Institute of Science (IISc) show that its efficacy can be dramatically increased, resulting in improved strain values. The team discovered that removing oxygen vacancies in lead-free piezoceramics also boosts electrostrain to 1% or higher.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalNature·DateJan 9, 2025
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.

Focaccia: a Neolithic culinary tradition dating back 9,000 years ago

Researchers analyzed ceramic fragments of husking trays to identify their use as specialized containers for baking cereal-based doughs. The study provides clear evidence regarding the uses of these artifacts and the nature of the foods processed in them.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2024

Sensitive ceramics for soft robotics

Researchers have developed sensitive ceramic sensors that can selectively respond to pressure or temperature, which are integrated into a prosthetic hand and a robotic skin. The goal is to enable safe collaboration between humans and machines, with applications in medicine and industry.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 14, 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.

Pushing the boundaries of traditional ceramic techniques

Researchers merged science and art to create a new kind of ceramic with enhanced strength and heat resistance. The team's innovative technique uses graphene oxide and ultrasound to produce delicate and intricate structures previously unattainable in traditional ceramics.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Omega·DateOct 25, 2024

NTU Singapore scientists apply ancient construction methods to help fabricate modern microparticles

Researchers use tongue and groove technique inspired by ancient East Asian wooden structures to create advanced ceramic microparticles with unprecedented complexity and precision. These particles can be used in various applications across microelectronics, aerospace, energy, and medical engineering.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 15, 2024

CityUHK researchers develop next-generation radiative cooling technology

Next-generation passive radiative cooling technology offers an electricity- and refrigerant-free cooling solution, potentially reducing surface temperature by at least 2°C. The innovation has promising application potential in buildings, roads, and clothing, addressing issues such as urban heat islands and greenhouse gas emissions.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·DateOct 14, 2024

HKUST researchers develop innovative method to simplify manufacturing process of cellular ceramic

Researchers at HKUST developed a novel approach to manufacture geometrically complex cellular ceramics using surface-tension-assisted two-step processing. This method overcomes traditional additive manufacturing limitations, enabling the production of programmable and highly precise ceramic architectures.

SourceHong Kong University of Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 10, 2024
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.

Greek Island was home to Bronze Age purple dye workshop

A Bronze Age purple dye workshop has been found on the Greek island of Aegina, featuring tools, ceramics, and snail shells that reveal the production process. The site provides insights into Mycenaean culture and trade during the Late Bronze Age.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS ONE·TypeObservational study·DateJun 12, 2024

Wearable devices get signal boost from innovative material

Researchers at Rice University developed a new material that mimics skin elasticity and motion types while preserving signal strength in electronics. The material, made by embedding ceramic nanoparticles into an elastic polymer, stabilizes radio-frequency communication and minimizes energy loss.

SourceRice University·JournalNature·DateMay 22, 2024

Ice-ray patterns: A rediscovery of past design for the future

A study discovers that traditional Chinese ice-ray lattice designs can provide unique stiffness and strength under asymmetric loads, offering an alternative to conventional gridshells. The research also explores the potential of integrating complex geometry into facade design and micro-scale material design.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalFrontiers of Architectural Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 20, 2024

PolyU researchers develop nature-inspired advanced materials to achieve 99.6% solar reflectivity

Researchers at PolyU developed a cooling ceramic with a hierarchically porous structure, inspired by the whitest beetle, to achieve high solar reflectivity and efficient light scattering. This innovation has potential energy-saving applications and is the first study on the Leidenfrost effect in passive radiative cooling materials.

SourceThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 3, 2024
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

New cooling ceramic can enhance energy efficiency for the construction sector and help combat global warming—City University of Hong Kong research

Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have developed a passive radiative cooling material that achieves high-performance optical properties. The cooling ceramic reduces thermal load, provides stable cooling performance, and can be used in various building applications.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 10, 2023

3D printed reactor core makes solar fuel production more efficient

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a novel 3D printing methodology to manufacture porous ceramic structures for efficient solar radiation transport, resulting in twice as much fuel production as uniform structures. The technology has the potential to improve sustainable aviation fuels' economic viability.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·DateOct 27, 2023

Electron-rich metals make ceramics tough to crack

Researchers at the University of California, San Diego have discovered a way to make ceramics tougher and more resistant to cracking. By using metal atoms with more electrons in their outer shell, they unlocked the potential to enable ceramics to handle higher levels of force and stress.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 19, 2023

Scientists film soundwaves in a crystal

Researchers used a unique X-ray technique to capture soundwaves' propagation in a diamond crystal, revealing ultrafast structural phenomena that were previously beyond scientific reach. The breakthrough enables real-time imaging of solid materials with unprecedented resolution and speed.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 2, 2023

Ceramic tea set glazing affects health benefits of tea, finds new study

A new study by Nagoya Institute of Technology researchers reveals that the type of ceramic glaze used in tea sets can alter the retention of catechins, flavonoids with antioxidant properties. The study found that different glazes reduced the amount of beneficial compounds in tea, affecting its flavor, aroma, and potential health benefits.

SourceNagoya Institute of Technology·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 11, 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.

China’s oldest water pipes were a communal effort

A new study reveals a 4,000-year-old system of ceramic water pipes in China demonstrates that neolithic people were capable of complex engineering feats without a centralised state authority. The discovery challenges earlier understanding in archaeological fields.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalNature Water·TypeObservational study·DateAug 14, 2023

Ferroelectric material is now elastic

Researchers developed a precise crosslinking method to impart elastic recovery to ferroelectric materials. The new material combines elasticity with high crystallinity, offering broad application prospects in wearable electronics and smart healthcare.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience·DateAug 3, 2023

How do ceramic particles strengthen metallic copper?

Scientists review preparation techniques for copper matrix composites with ceramic particles, enhancing mechanical properties and thermal conductivity. The study highlights the importance of particle characterization, interfacial bonding, and advanced preparation methods to optimize composite performance.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJun 25, 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.

New invention: The oxygen-ion battery

The oxygen-ion battery has an extremely long service life due to its ability to regenerate and store capacity that does not decrease over time. It also solves the problem of fire hazards associated with lithium-ion batteries.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 22, 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.

HKU Dentistry invents new material to replace extracted human teeth for dental research

A research team developed a new dentine analogue material that can substitute extracted human teeth in laboratory-based mechanical and fatigue tests. The materials were tested for their mechanical strength, elastic modulus, indentation hardness, and fatigue behaviour, showing comparable results to those based on extracted human teeth.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalDental Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2023

Illinois Tech assistant professor publishes paper in Science on novel chemistry behind ultra-high power density batteries

Assistant Professor Mohammad Asadi has published a paper in Science describing the chemistry behind his novel lithium-air battery design, which could store one kilowatt-hour per kilogram or higher. This breakthrough technology has the potential to revolutionize heavy-duty vehicles such as airplanes, trains, and submarines.

SourceIllinois Institute of Technology·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 2023

Stanford scientists illuminate barrier to next-generation battery that charges very quickly

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a new understanding of how nanoscale defects and mechanical stress cause solid electrolytes to fail. By studying over 60 experiments, they found that ceramics often contain tiny cracks on their surface, which can lead to short circuits during fast charging. The discovery could pave the ...

SourceStanford University·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2023

1,700-year-old spider monkey remains discovered in Teotihuacán, Mexico

Researchers found the skeletal remains of a 5-8 year old spider monkey in Teotihuacán, Mexico, which provides the earliest evidence of primate captivity and translocation. The discovery also reveals gift diplomacy between Teotihuacán and Mayan elite, challenging previous beliefs about Maya presence in the region.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2022
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.

Ceramic coatings do not fatigue

Researchers at TU Wien found that ceramic coatings do not fatigue under extreme load conditions, but instead break down due to fracture toughness. The discovery changes the approach to measuring and improving thin film durability.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalActa Materialia·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2022

Looking to sea urchins for stronger ceramic foams

A team of researchers, led by Ling Li from Virginia Tech, has discovered the key strategies behind the strength and toughness of sea urchin exoskeletons. The study reveals that a balance between branch connection nodes and pore size is critical to the material's damage tolerance.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 28, 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
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.

UCF researchers create lunar regolith bricks that could be used to construct Artemis base camp

Researchers at UCF's COSMOS Lab developed a method to create strong bricks from lunar regolith using 3D printing and binder jet technology. The bricks can withstand extreme space environments and are suitable for constructing off-world structures, paving the way for sustainable space construction.

SourceUniversity of Central Florida·JournalCeramics International·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 25, 2022

Scientists have grown custom-shaped nanoparticles

Researchers developed a technology to create nonspherical nanoparticles through ion implantation, enabling the growth of custom shapes and controlling their properties. This allows for the creation of metamaterials with improved optical absorption and energy conversion efficiency.

SourceUral Federal University·JournalJournal of Physics and Chemistry of Solids·DateOct 18, 2022

Heat-proof chaotic carbides could revolutionize aerospace technology

Scientists at Duke University have engineered materials capable of producing tunable plasmonic properties while withstand extremely high temperatures. The new high-entropy carbides can achieve improved communications and thermal regulation in aerospace technologies, including satellites and hypersonic aircraft.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 11, 2022
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.

Engineers develop a new kind of shape-memory material

A new category of shape-memory materials made of ceramic, rather than metal, has been discovered by MIT researchers. The ceramic material can actuate without accumulating damage and withstand much higher temperatures than existing metals, making it suitable for applications such as actuators in jet engines.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateOct 5, 2022

Not Just for the Gods

A new study by UC Santa Barbara researchers Anabel Ford and Mattanjah de Vries reveals that cacao was accessible to the general populace and used in celebrations at all levels of ancient Maya society. The analysis of 54 archaeological ceramic sherds from El Pilar, Belize, found evidence of cacao residues in all vessel types, including ...

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 26, 2022