Researchers at Empa's Mechanics of Materials and Nanostructures laboratory are working to improve the insulation material used in satellites and space probes. They have developed a new intermediate layer that makes the material more elastic and resistant to cracks and flaking, enabling better superinsulation for future satellites.
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Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a material that combines stiffness and damping properties, making it suitable for various applications. The new composite material features layers of stiff materials connected by ultra-thin rubber-like layers, resulting in excellent vibration-damping performance.
Researchers developed a technique that leverages component-based reduced order modeling to analyze composite laminates. The 'Lego-like' construction method offers improved speed and accuracy, making it a viable alternative to traditional finite-element analysis.
The study introduces Al/Mg/Al laminates with large thickness ratios, showcasing enhanced mechanical properties and interfacial bonding strength. The optimal ITR of 20 yields the best comprehensive mechanical properties, maximizing ultimate tensile strength and yield strength while achieving high interfacial bonding strength.
Researchers developed a novel quasi-3D extend finite element method to simulate damage propagation in CFRP laminates, improving accuracy and efficiency. The approach enables the design of high-quality CFRPs with lower production costs, paving the way for widespread adoption in various industries.
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Researchers developed an in situ technique to observe material behavior under various stresses, including shear stress. This allows for precise understanding of how materials respond and identify preferred slip planes.
A new study by NC State University found that total formulation impacts surface sanitizer efficacy against norovirus, with only alcohol-based products showing significant reduction. Additionally, paper towels used to clean up messes can be a source of cross-contamination.
Researchers investigated glass fiber-reinforced epoxy-based flat laminates with pultrusion, a fast and versatile composite manufacturing process. The study found significant promise for structural applications of these 'shape memory' composites in various industries.
Nur Yazdani's new tool helps stakeholders design home slab elevations to protect against future storms, reducing economic losses and casualties. The software will be tested in four Texas counties and includes outreach education for homeowners.
Dr. Yazdani will use non-destructive techniques to test 30 bridges in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, detecting cracks and corrosion without harming the bridge. His research aims to determine load capacity and identify potential issues before they become major problems.
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Researchers at MIT have developed a gel-like material that can be coated onto standard plastic or rubber devices, providing a softer and more slippery exterior. The coating can also monitor and treat signs of infection, and could potentially replace common elastomers in medical devices.
Researchers at Oregon State University have developed a low-cost material that can achieve negative refraction of light and other radiation. The discovery has significant implications for various applications, including super lenses, energy harvesting, and stealth coatings.
Infrared thermography is a non-destructive testing method that allows researchers to peer several centimeters into the material of wind turbine rotor blades. This technology enables the detection of minor irregularities and delaminated areas that can cause mechanical stresses and lead to premature failure.
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Researchers have developed a new type of laminate that performs spectacularly in ballistics tests due to its high strength-to-weight ratio. The material is made by alternating layers of aluminum and titanium alloy foils, mimicking the internal structure of the red abalone's shell.