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Engineers find new ways to protect against hurricane damage

Researchers developed a new method to save lives and protect property in windstorm-prone areas using a laminated glass window unit with a sacrificial ply. The design concept is promising for enhancing hurricane resistance of windows and offers a cost-effective alternative to expensive shutters or boards.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Architectural Engineering·DateDec 17, 2000

Heat capacity of glassy substance holds key to its transition kinetics

University of Illinois researchers have developed a theory that explains how glassy materials behave and predict the speed of molecular motion changes with temperature. The theory, based on thermodynamic measurements of heat capacity, provides a universal form for expressing glass transition phenomena.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 2, 2000

New materials from glass threads

Researchers at NRL have created a new type of glass material for use in future opto-electronic devices, which could lead to advancements in optical sensors, miniaturized optical systems, high-speed communication components, and more. The material's properties are highly dependent on its layered structure and composition.

Engineered Glass Tempering Halts Cracks

Researchers have developed a new method to engineer glass that can withstand stress without catastrophic failure, reducing the variability in strength. This new approach creates internal compressed layers that stop crack propagation, making the glass more consistent and reliable.

SourcePenn State·JournalScience·DateFeb 25, 1999

Liquid Golf Clubs

Golfers can expect to hit longer shots and experience a softer yet solid feel with the new Liquidmetal alloy, absorbing less energy than conventional materials. This high-performance material is also attractive for replacing traditional metals in sporting goods and aerospace products.

SourceInstitute of Materials·JournalMaterials World·DateSep 2, 1998