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Knitting together a novel method for simulating yarn-cloth patterns

A team of computer scientists developed a novel method for simulating yarn-cloth patterns, accurately capturing the physics of fabrics including stretching and bending response. The technique enables faster and more accurate simulations of knitted and woven materials while preserving material properties.

SourceAssociation for Computing Machinery·DateJul 8, 2020

Skoltech researchers solve a 60-year-old puzzle about a superhard material

Researchers at Skoltech have solved the long-standing puzzle of tungsten boride's crystal structure, revealing a new material with exceptional mechanical properties. The discovery of WB5-x has exciting implications for various industrial applications, including drilling technology.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJul 3, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

The lightest shielding material in the world

Researchers at Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology create a composite of cellulose nanofibers and silver nanowires, achieving impressive shielding effectiveness. The resulting aerogel is incredibly light, flexible, and durable, with high shielding capabilities against electromagnetic radiation.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJul 2, 2020

Al2Pt for oxygen evolution reaction in water splitting

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids developed a new intermetallic compound Al2Pt as a precursor for oxygen evolution reaction electrocatalyst material. The compound's reduced density of states and polar chemical bonding provide inherent OER activity, increasing stability under harsh oxidative conditions.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateJun 26, 2020

Doing more with terahertz: Simplifying near-infrared spectroscopy systems

Researchers have developed a novel scheme for THz dual-comb spectroscopy that requires only a single laser source while maintaining exceptional resolution. The use of adaptive sampling technique minimizes timing instability and allows for accurate detection of small variations in the absorption profile of materials.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJun 8, 2020

Killing coronavirus with handheld ultraviolet light device may be feasible

A team of researchers at Penn State has developed a handheld ultraviolet light device that can effectively disinfect areas by killing the novel coronavirus. The device uses high-performance UV LEDs emitting a high intensity of UV light, which is currently limited by transparent electrode materials.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Physics Communications·DateJun 1, 2020

DFG to fund three Collaborative Research Centres at TU Dresden

The DFG is funding three Collaborative Research Centres at TU Dresden to develop new classes of synthetic two-dimensional materials and novel design strategies for carbon concrete structures. The research focuses on controlling material properties, manufacturability, and sustainability.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·DateMay 29, 2020
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.

Visualization of functional components to characterize optimal composite electrodes

A new visualization method using atomic force microscopy is developed to determine the distribution of components in battery electrodes, providing insights into optimal composite electrode conditions. The method has potential to improve performance and safety of all-solid-state lithium-ion batteries.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·DateMay 21, 2020
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.

Machine-learning tool could help develop tougher materials

Engineers have developed an AI-based rapid screening system to test fracture resistance in vast arrays of candidate materials. The system uses machine-learning to analyze the propagation of cracks through a material's molecular structure, reducing testing time from hours to milliseconds.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMatter·DateMay 20, 2020

New algorithm predicts optimal materials among all possible compounds

A new algorithm, Mendelevian Search, predicts optimal materials by searching through all possible combinations of chemical elements and crystal structures. The method has successfully predicted diamond and several dozen hard and superhard phases, including some new ones.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateMay 14, 2020

User research at BESSY II: How new materials increase the efficiency of direct ethanol fuel cells

Researchers found that composite membranes with nanoparticles can increase proton conductivity in direct ethanol fuel cells, leading to higher efficiency and potential industrial scalability. This breakthrough has great implications for the use of renewable ethanol as a sustainable energy source.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalJournal of Membrane Science·DateMay 4, 2020

Outer tube-selectively boron-doped double-walled carbon nanotubes for thermoelectric applications

Researchers at Shinshu University have developed a method to selectively dope boron into the outer tubes of double-walled carbon nanotubes, increasing electrical conductivity and Seebeck coefficient. This advancement enables highly enhanced thermoelectric performance in boron-doped DWNTs for waste heat harvesting and other applications.

SourceShinshu University·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·DateMay 2, 2020
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

New study takes the pulse of a sleeping supervolcano

Researchers from Uppsala University discovered that hot magma from inside the Earth is forcing its way into a giant reservoir, keeping the Andean supervolcano alive. The study provides new insights into how large volcanoes work and could help increase chances of survival in case of a future eruption.

SourceUppsala University·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 23, 2020

Torquato research links elastodynamic and electromagnetic wave phenomena

Researchers have developed unified formulas to predict the behavior of light and sound waves in heterogeneous materials. This allows for the design of multifunctional composites with specific responses to waves, paving the way for engineered hyperuniform materials.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 9, 2020
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.

Designing lightweight glass for efficient cars, wind turbines

A new machine-learning algorithm helps design lightweight glass compositions that are very stiff, suitable for next-gen materials in vehicles and wind turbines. The goal is to reduce weight while maintaining strength, leading to fuel efficiency improvements.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateMar 26, 2020

Creating stretchable thermoelectric generators

Researchers at Linköping University have developed a soft and stretchable organic thermoelectric module that can harvest energy from body heat. The breakthrough was made possible by a new composite material with high electrical conductivity and good thermoelectric properties.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 24, 2020

Made to degrade (eventually)

Researchers at Osaka University have developed a marine biodegradable plastic using starch and cellulose, demonstrating excellent water-resistance and high strength. The new material has the potential to significantly reduce marine debris accumulation and contribute to sustainable development goals.

SourceOsaka University·DateMar 23, 2020

IKBFU physicists keep improving 'smart' composites for biomedical sensors

Researchers successfully tested a new magnetic micro wire-based concept for 'smart' composite production, creating multiferroic-class materials with controlled magnetic and electric properties. The new composites are expected to enable the development of highly sensitive sensors for health monitoring devices.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalMaterials·DateMar 10, 2020
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.

Using holograms helps in studying the quality of composite materials

Researchers developed a digital holography method for assessing composite materials' quality, particularly ceramic spraying materials. This technique allows for precise analysis without distorting results or requiring sensor installation.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics·DateMar 5, 2020

Climate change: Modeling the problem, searching for solutions

Researchers unveiled new methods to decode climate system behavior, develop recyclable composites, and explore alternative energy sources. These advancements aim to improve climate predictions, provide cost-effective adaptation strategies, and promote sustainable practices.

SourceAmerican Physical Society·DateFeb 27, 2020

An early warning system for damage in composite materials

A team at NIST has developed a tool to monitor changes in composite materials, allowing for the measurement of damage that occurs as they age. This technology enables early warning systems for structures like wind turbines and aerospace components.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalComposites Science and Technology·DateFeb 18, 2020
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.

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.

Science at the interface: Bioinspired materials reveal useful properties

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed bioinspired materials with tailored physical properties for various industries. The new materials are inspired by nature's mechanisms and can be custom-tailored to suit specific needs, offering a cheaper and more efficient alternative to conventional catalysts.

SourceArizona State University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJan 27, 2020

Smart materials are becoming smarter

A composite material was developed by researchers from Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University to create smart implants with sensing capabilities. The material combines magnetocaloric properties, allowing it to change temperature in response to magnetic fields, making it suitable for biomedical applications.

SourceImmanuel Kant Baltic Federal University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 20, 2020

A new approach to making airplane parts, minus the massive infrastructure

Researchers create carbon nanotube film that generates heat, causing materials to fuse together without the need for huge ovens or autoclaves. The technique produces composites as strong as those made in conventional manufacturing methods, using only 1% of the energy.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·DateJan 13, 2020
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.

Nanomaterial fabric destroys nerve agents in battlefield-relevant conditions

Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a composite material that can efficiently detoxify nerve agents, including VX and soman, under battlefield-relevant conditions. The material uses metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) integrated onto textile fibers, which can capture gases and vapors without the need for liquid water.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 8, 2020

Paving the way for spintronic RAMs: A deeper look into a powerful spin phenomenon

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a novel strategy to exploit spin-related phenomena in topological materials, achieving a giant unidirectional spin Hall magnetoresistance ratio of over 1%. This breakthrough could lead to the development of spintronics and outperform current storage devices with improved power cons...

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·DateDec 26, 2019
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.

First fully rechargeable carbon dioxide battery with carbon neutrality

UIC researchers have successfully developed a fully rechargeable prototype of a lithium-carbon dioxide battery, demonstrating its potential for advanced energy storage systems. The battery's efficiency and long-lasting cycle life are significantly improved due to the use of new materials and a hybrid electrolyte.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 25, 2019
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.

UTA Research Institute scientist earns award for emerging leadership in engineering

Rasel Raihan, a research scientist at the UTA Research Institute, has received the Young Professionals Emerging Leadership Award from the Society of Advancement of Materials and Process Engineering. He is recognized for his technical excellence and outstanding service in advancing the field of advanced materials and process engineering.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateAug 9, 2019

Thyme essential oil in corn starch particles combats Aedes aegypti larvae

Researchers developed a novel, biodegradable larvicide system using thymol from thyme essential oil, which is effective against Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. The system uses microcapsules made of corn starch particles to control the release of larvicide, making it suitable for small water containers and reducing environmental harm.

SourceFundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo·JournalIndustrial Crops and Products·DateAug 6, 2019

How to discover new materials quickly

Researchers use combinatorial synthesis and thin-film material libraries to accelerate discovery of new materials. Automated data analysis enables machine learning and artificial intelligence to aid the search for new materials.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateJul 10, 2019

New antibacterial fillings from Tel Aviv University may combat recurring tooth decay

Researchers at Tel Aviv University have developed novel dental restoratives that display potent antibacterial capabilities, potentially preventing recurrent cavities and tooth decay. The resin-based composites incorporate antibacterial nano-assemblies to hinder bacterial growth and viability on dental restorations.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 9, 2019

Tuning the energy levels of organic semiconductors

Researchers found that adjusting a single molecular parameter, the molecular quadrupole moment, can tune the energetics in organic films. This effect enhances long-range Coulomb interactions in organic materials.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 8, 2019
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.

UI researchers validate optimum composites structure created with additive manufacturing

A team of researchers successfully validated an optimized composite material structure created using additive manufacturing, resulting in a stiffer and stronger material. The structure features a curved deposition line pattern, which was found to be the most optimal for achieving maximum stiffness and strength.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalExperimental Mechanics·DateJun 27, 2019

New material with magnetic shape memory

Researchers developed a new composite material with magnetic shape memory activated by magnetism, offering advantages in medicine and robotics. The material consists of polymer and droplets of magnetorheological fluid, increasing stiffness up to 30 times.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 4, 2019

Scientists break record for highest-temperature superconductor

Researchers discovered superconductivity in lanthanum superhydrides at temperatures of about -23°C, exceeding the previous record by 50 degrees. The material exhibited zero electrical resistance and could potentially be used in advanced technologies like efficient magnetic levitation trains.

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalNature·DateMay 22, 2019
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.

Robots activated by water may be the next frontier

Researchers have created a novel material that harnesses water to deliver force and motion, revolutionizing the development of soft robots. This new material is made from spores and adhesives, providing an alternative to traditional materials used in hard actuators.

SourceColumbia University·JournalAdvanced Materials Science and Technology·DateMay 22, 2019

How to program materials

Ali Gooneie simulates atoms and molecules to explain material properties like smooth surfaces, flexibility, heat-conductivity, and insulation. His research uses the finite element method to predict macroscopic properties of composite materials.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalPolymer Degradation and Stability·DateMay 21, 2019

UBC researchers create washable sensor that can be woven into materials

Researchers at UBC Okanagan have created a low-cost, washable sensor that can monitor human movement and detect deformations in composite materials. The sensor uses piezo-resistivity technology and has shown great promise for health-monitoring applications and the composites manufacturing industry.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalSmall·DateMay 16, 2019
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.

Syracuse engineer receives top NSF career award for work in soft materials

Teng Zhang's NSF CAREER Award will support his research on interface mechanics in soft materials, aiming to develop better materials for wound healing, biological joint diagnosis, and underwater adhesives. The award also enables educational outreach and the integration of modeling simulation tools into Syracuse University's curriculum.

SourceSyracuse University·DateApr 1, 2019

'Terminator'-like liquid metal moves and stretches in 3D space (video)

Researchers created a magnetic liquid metal that can move and stretch both horizontally and vertically without being fully immersed in liquid. The material exhibits high conductivity, low melting point, and deformability, making it suitable for use in soft robotics and flexible electronics.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 20, 2019