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Recycling the unrecyclable

Researchers have developed a novel solid catalyst to efficiently reclaim materials from epoxy products, including carbon fibers and glass fibers. The process uses lower temperatures than traditional methods, reducing energy requirements and making the recovery of materials more environmentally friendly.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 6, 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.

Accelerating 3D nanofabrication using a sensitive cationic photoresist

A new type of cationic epoxy photoresist exhibits greater sensitivity to two-photon laser exposure, enabling fast writing speeds and fine features. The material was developed by a research team led by Professor Cuifang Kuang, who achieved lithography speeds of 100 mm/s and resolution of 170 nm.

SourceCactus Communications·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 30, 2024

Adding “Mussel” to META-GLUE

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh receive a $251,981 DARPA award to design more effective underwater adhesives inspired by mussels. They aim to optimize molecular-level properties for strengthened underwater infrastructure and fluidic environments.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateAug 21, 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
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.

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

Solving stickiness sustainably

A team of chemists at Purdue University has created a sustainable adhesive system that uses epoxidized soy oil, malic acid, and tannic acid. The new adhesive is inexpensive, effective, scalable, practical to produce and completely sustainable.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNature·DateSep 13, 2023

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
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

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

Lubricants for stainless steel

Researchers at the University of Sheffield have discovered that epoxy-functionalized nanoparticles can significantly reduce friction on stainless steel surfaces. The nanoparticles adhere strongly to metal surfaces due to chemical adsorption, leading to a notable reduction in friction. This finding has potential implications for next-ge...

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 1, 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.

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

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 long can fiber reinforced polymer sustain concrete structures? Scientists answer

A 13-year-long study finds that fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) coatings can sustain concrete structures for extended periods. The study tested FRP and glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) systems under various environmental conditions, revealing significant impact on bond behavior.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalComposites Part B Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 14, 2021

Storing data as mixtures of fluorescent dyes (video)

Researchers have developed a novel data storage method using mixtures of fluorescent dyes, which can store binary information at high density with fast read/write speeds. The technique encodes sequences of 0s and 1s into dye molecules, allowing for the storage of digital information for thousands of years or longer.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Central Science·DateOct 13, 2021

Ultrathin quantum dot LED that can be folded freely as paper

Researchers at the Institute for Basic Science have developed a foldable quantum dot LED that can be transformed into various complex 3D structures, such as butterflies and pyramids. The technology employs selective laser-etching to create precise curvature lines, allowing for stable light-emitting performance even after repeated folding.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Electronics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

3D nano-inks push industry boundaries

Mechanical engineering researchers at Michigan Technological University have created a 3D-printable nanocomposite polymeric ink using carbon nanotubes. The ink's properties, such as electrical conductivity and increased strength, make it suitable for various applications, including aerospace and electronics industries.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateSep 24, 2021

NTU Singapore scientists invent glue activated by magnetic field

Researchers have created a new adhesive that can be cured using a magnetic field, offering a more efficient alternative to traditional methods. The 'magnetocuring' glue has the potential to revolutionize industries such as sports equipment, automotive and electronics manufacturing.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalApplied Materials Today·DateDec 22, 2020

UTA working with Navy on high-voltage insulators

David Wetz at UTA is working with the Navy to study dielectric insulation properties of epoxy and additively manufactured materials. The goal is to improve their insulation properties in compact high-voltage systems, potentially reducing overall system size and weight.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Arlington·DateAug 18, 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.

How plantains and carbon nanotubes can improve cars

A team of researchers at the University of Johannesburg has developed a natural fibre-reinforced polymer hybrid nanocomposite material using plantain fibers and carbon nanotubes. The resulting composite exhibits improved tensile and flexural strength compared to epoxy resin alone.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalJournal of Materials Research and Technology·DateJul 29, 2020

Curbing the flammability of epoxy resin

A team of researchers from Henan University has investigated the flame retardant performance of epoxy resin using a boron nitride nanosheet decorated with cobalt ferrite nanoparticle. The as-prepared CFN-BNNS exhibits superior paramagnetic properties, contributing to better flame retardant performance compared to random alignment.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalNANO·DateJun 19, 2019

'Self-healing' polymer brings perovskite solar tech closer to market

A protective layer of epoxy resin helps prevent lead leakage from perovskite solar cells, outperforming rival materials under various weather conditions. The 'self-healing' property of the polymer limits lead release when damaged, making it a strong candidate for commercial viability.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalNature Energy·DateJun 17, 2019
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

How froghoppers grip on smooth surfaces

Researchers discovered that froghoppers pierce leaves with their hind-leg spines to create traction, while also indenting epoxy surfaces to avoid slipping. This unique attachment mechanism could lead to innovative gripping systems for robots.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 4, 2019

Epoxy compound gets a graphene bump

Rice University scientists have developed a new epoxy compound that combines graphene foam for improved conductivity and strength. The composite material is substantially tougher than pure epoxy and far more conductive, while retaining its low density.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateNov 14, 2018

Texas A&M AgriLife study shows BPA risk factor for inflammatory bowel disease

A recent Texas A&M AgriLife study reveals that dietary exposure to bisphenol-A (BPA) can increase mortality and worsen symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Researchers found BPA altered gut microbial amino acid metabolism, leading to increased inflammation and reduced compound production related to serotonin breakdown.

SourceTexas A&M AgriLife Communications·JournalSAGE Open·DateJul 5, 2018
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.

Going 'green' with plant-based resins

Researchers developed a new curing agent made from castor oil components that strengthened a soybean-based epoxy thermoset, increasing its durability and heat resistance. The material also allows light to pass through, potentially ideal for applications like solar cells.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalMacromolecules·DateAug 16, 2017

NASA eyes first-ever carbon-nanotube mirrors for CubeSat telescope

A team of NASA scientists is developing a compact, low-cost telescope for CubeSats that will utilize a mirror made of carbon nanotubes in an epoxy resin. The technology aims to provide a sensitive instrument for quick exploratory missions or as part of a constellation of similar CubeSats.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJul 12, 2016

Move aside carbon: Boron nitride-reinforced materials are even stronger

Researchers have discovered that boron nitride nanotubes can create even stronger and more stable materials when combined with lightweight polymers than previously thought. The unique properties of boron nitride nanotubes make them an attractive alternative to carbon nanotubes for aerospace and other industries.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateDec 22, 2015
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.

ORNL thermomagnetic processing method provides path to new materials

Scientists have developed a thermomagnetic processing method that controls the orientation of molecules in liquid crystalline epoxy resins. This leads to highly aligned structures with near-zero coefficient of thermal expansion, potentially enabling new structural designs and functional composites.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateNov 6, 2014
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.

Fitter frames: Nanotubes boost structural integrity of composites

Researchers at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute have discovered that incorporating treated carbon nanotubes into epoxy composites can significantly improve toughness and crack resistance. The study found a five-fold reduction in crack growth rate when subjected to repetitive stress.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalSmall·DateMar 26, 2009

New recipe for self-healing plastic includes dash of food additive

Scientists at the University of Illinois have developed a novel self-healing system using a non-toxic food additive to restore damaged polymers. The new repair process, which mimics human wound healing, has achieved 100% healing efficiency in tests.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateOct 15, 2008

NASA scientists pioneer method for making giant lunar telescopes

Scientists at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center have developed a novel method for creating massive telescope mirrors on the Moon, utilizing carbon nanotubes and lunar dust. The technique enables the production of highly reflective mirrors with minimal effort and cost, paving the way for giant telescopes up to 50 meters in diameter.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 4, 2008
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.

Now, self-healing materials can mimic human skin, healing again and again

Researchers at the University of Illinois developed self-healing materials that can heal cracks in a continuous cycle. The new materials feature embedded microvascular networks that emulate biological circulatory systems, allowing minor damage to be healed repeatedly without exhausting the supply of healing agent.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 11, 2007

Testing sticky stuff with a 'fly's eye'

Researchers at NIST collaborate with industry partners to devise rapid screening and measurement methods for new epoxies, pressure-sensitive adhesives, and other high-value products. A miniaturized test platform utilizing micro-lens technology is designed to screen hundreds of adhesive formulations in an automated process.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·DateFeb 13, 2004

Nanotube-laced epoxy: three times harder, far better at conducting heat

Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a new type of epoxy that is three times harder and conducts heat significantly better than regular epoxy. The addition of carbon nanotubes to the adhesive yields enhanced thermal conductivity and mechanical strength.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateApr 15, 2002
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.

Adhesive tricks to recycle old computers

Researchers at Cornell University have developed an environmentally friendly adhesive that can be easily removed and cleaned up, making it possible to recycle outmoded computers. The adhesive, dubbed Alpha-Terp, can be broken down using heat or industrial solvents, allowing for the reuse of valuable components.

SourceCornell University·DateAug 21, 2000