Articles tagged with Materials Engineering
Researchers at MIT have developed a new approach to improve solar cells by creating the thinnest and most lightweight panels possible. These panels, made from stacked sheets of one-molecule-thick materials such as graphene or molybdenum disulfide, could produce up to 1,000 times more power per pound than conventional photovoltaics.
Japan's high-tech companies excel in producing components for lithium-ion batteries and LCD films, with financial performance outpacing the rest of the chemical industry.
A team of researchers has observed a rare quantum physics effect that produces a repeating butterfly-shaped energy spectrum in a magnetic field, confirming the prediction of the quantum fractal energy structure called Hofstadter's butterfly. The discovery paves the way for engineering new types of nanoscale materials.
The BRAIN initiative aims to develop new tools to listen to conversations among millions of neurons in the brain. The project could establish a basis for new treatments for clinical depression, autism, schizophrenia, Parkinson's disease, and other brain conditions.
Researchers developed a technique to measure the structure of gold nanocrystals under extremely high pressures, resolving distortion issues with X-ray beams. This breakthrough could lead to improvements in nanomaterials and a better understanding of planetary interiors.
A team of researchers at Stanford University has designed a new structure that reflects most sunlight and efficiently radiates heat into space, cooling buildings even in the daytime. The device can achieve net cooling powers in excess of 100 watts per square meter, offsetting up to 35% of air conditioning needs.
The Wyss Institute has received a $9.25 million contract from DARPA to advance its sepsis therapeutic device, which uses magnetic nanobeads to cleanse the blood of pathogens without removing human cells or fluids. The technology has shown promise in treating deadly bloodstream infections that kill critically ill patients and soldiers.
Researchers found that adding pimples to equipment doesn't necessarily improve grip, but rather the density of pimples and texture of mitts matter. Synthetic leather mitts performed best across all conditions, suggesting a need for tailored ball designs for different climates.
Researchers propose duckweed as a sustainable alternative for producing gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel due to its fast growth rate and ability to thrive in wastewater. The study suggests that small-scale duckweed refineries can produce cost-competitive fuel when oil prices reach $100 per barrel.
Researchers aim to improve laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) technique for detecting trace amounts of substances of interest to Homeland Security. The project seeks to develop a more sensitive emission process, enabling analysis at a distance with greater accuracy.
Researchers are developing a new computing approach to discover new materials by harnessing the key characteristics of data: volume, velocity, variety and veracity. The approach helps identify promising solutions by applying statistical learning techniques to large datasets.
Researchers create a new explosive with a blast wave traveling 225 miles per hour faster than the current standard, HMX. The new explosive combines CL-20 and HMX, producing a more powerful but stable material with potential to replace HMX as military-grade explosives
Researchers at UCF have discovered a non-chemical method to create identical nanoparticles of any size in large quantities. The technique relies on heat to break molten fibers into spherical droplets, resulting in particles that can hold multiple types of materials locked in place.
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have successfully synthesized a material with a similar structure, mechanical behavior, and optical appearance to natural nacre, also known as mother of pearl. The new coating has potential applications in coating applications due to its cheap ingredients and ability to be easily automated.
A NJIT researcher developed a management program to reduce MRSA infections by identifying and leveraging 'positive deviants' - employees who excel at their jobs without being recognized. The study found that top-down support, collaboration, and recognition were key to successful change.
A team of international mathematicians has devised an amplifier that can boost light, sound, or other waves while hiding them inside an invisible container. The researchers propose using this technology to manipulate matter waves, which could enable the creation of a quantum microscope to monitor electronic processes on computer chips.
A $50 million gift from Oracle chairman Jeff Henley will fund collaboration and scientific research at UCSB's IEE and College of Engineering. The donation supports innovations in energy-efficient technologies, including LED lighting and solar cells.
Researchers propose incorporating a lens made from new artificial materials to boost inductive coupling, increasing wireless power transfer efficiency. This could improve the efficiency of systems like cordless electric toothbrushes and mobile phones.
A University of Washington group has launched a unique Design Help Desk to match science students with design consultants, aiming to improve figure creation and convey complex information clearly. The drop-in clinic offers free service Mondays and Wednesdays, primarily for graduate students in science and engineering.
Expert Rongfang Liu will address concerns about China's high-speed rail development at the Transportation Research Board conference. Her research suggests that investments in high-speed rails can receive adequate returns when linked to investment recovery periods and fare structures corresponding to traveler demographics.
Engineers created graphene's pseudo-piezoelectric behavior by punching triangle-shaped holes into it, producing strong piezoelectricity comparable to well-known substances like quartz. The results have the potential to open new avenues for graphene and applications relying on piezoelectricity.
Researchers have discovered a new method for heating materials and creating new states of matter using proton beams. The high-intensity laser focus enabled the creation of well-focused proton beams with unexpected curved trajectories.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a computational method to quickly identify metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) with high potential for natural gas storage. The new algorithm rapidly generates and tests hypothetical MOFs, leading to the discovery of over 300 promising structures.
Sotirios G. Ziavras, a professor at NJIT's Electrical and Computer Engineering department, has received the Excellence in Graduate Instruction Award. He is also an internationally recognized expert in advanced computer architecture, embedded computing systems, and parallel processing.
A KAIST research team developed a biocompatible, flexible GaN LED that can detect prostate cancer, opening the door for implantable biomedical applications. The technology utilizes a highly efficient and flexible light-emitting device to diagnose diseases, potentially revolutionizing medical treatments.
Researchers developed semiconductor materials that detect gamma rays, identifying plutonium and uranium. The method uses dimensional reduction to create heavy elements with immobilized electrons, making them suitable for detection.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory detected radioactive materials from Fukushima in the US, providing insight into the disaster's magnitude. The findings demonstrate huge advancements in nuclear monitoring technology.
A team of bioengineers at Rice University is developing new materials to grow replacement heart valves using gel-like scaffolds that mimic the complex structure and physical properties of heart-valve tissues. The goal is to create living valves that use a patient's own cells, eliminating tissue rejection.
The New Jersey Institute of Technology's Enterprise Development Center (EDC) has secured over $1 million in federal funding for five healthcare innovators. The EDC provided mentorship and support to enable the companies to participate in the Qualifying Therapeutic Discovery Project Grants program.
A University of Oklahoma research team has established a new Center for Interfacial Reaction Engineering, focusing on biofuel and fossil fuel upgrading using revolutionary nanocatalysts. The $2.9M grant will accelerate reactions at the interface of water and oil, creating emulsions for refining processes.
A new study by University of Notre Dame ecologist Jennifer Tank and colleagues found that streams throughout the Midwest receive transgenic materials from corn crop byproducts six months after harvest. The research detected Cry1Ab insecticidal protein in 13% of stream sites and dissolved in 23% of water samples.
Researchers are developing methods to add color to e-reader displays, including simple filters and new electronic ink technologies. Color displays could enhance the user experience and open up new markets for educational materials.
Researchers at Harvard University have developed programmable matter by folding, allowing a single sheet to transform into a boat- or plane-shape. The technology uses origami techniques and features smart cups that can adjust to liquid levels and other tools with multiple functions.
Researchers at the University of Cincinnati propose that the structure of vodkas is responsible for variation in taste. The team found that different vodkas have varying levels of a cage-like hydrogen-bonded structure, which could affect the way they are perceived by the palate.
Researchers developed a modified catheter with side holes and slits to reduce the force of contrast material exiting the end hole. The study found a nine to 30 percent reduction in velocity and a more cloud-like dispersal of contrast material, resulting in improved patient safety.
Scientists have engineered a human HIV-1 inhibitor modeled after an owl monkey fusion protein that potently blocks HIV-1 infection. This new treatment showed promise in preventing viral replication in mice and has the potential to be a robust anti-HIV-1 gene therapy candidate.
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has awarded nearly $20 million to Virginia Tech's nuclear engineering program for faculty development and fellowships. The funding will support the growth of a workforce capable of designing, constructing, and operating nuclear facilities.
Researchers have discovered significant differences in the quality of bone-like materials grown from different types of bone cells and stem cells. The study provides insight into how cell sources influence bone quality and brings us closer to developing materials for successful implantation.
Researchers at Yale University have developed a novel approach to deliver small interfering RNA (siRNA) molecules using biodegradable nanoparticles, achieving sustained release and effective knockdown of gene activity. This breakthrough holds promise for the treatment of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), particularly HPV and HIV.
NJIT has received a $20,000 grant from The Horizon Foundation for New Jersey to teach middle and high school students about nutrition, physical fitness, and healthy lifestyles. This program aims to prevent serious, long-term health problems among teenagers in the community.
University of Florida researchers develop a new approach to lab-on-a-chip technology by harnessing biologically powered molecular forklifts. This innovation allows for the creation of 'smart dust' that can detect biological threats and other contaminants without the need for electricity or rinsing.
Engineers have achieved a new record in efficiency of blue organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs), which can produce high-quality white light similar to standard incandescent bulbs. The breakthrough paves the way for more efficient and affordable lighting solutions.
Researchers have developed tools that accurately model the atomic and void structures of amorphous red phosphorus, a network-forming elemental material. These tools will revolutionize the creation of new solar panels, flat-panel displays, optical storage media, and other technological devices.
Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory have successfully engineered two-layer thin films with a nanometer-thin region of superconductivity, elevating the temperature of superconductivity to over 50 kelvin. This achievement brings researchers closer to fabricating useful three-terminal superconducting devices.
This study investigates the 3D rupture conformations of a surface fault under biaxial compression, revealing three stages of crack growth and introducing the concept of anti-wing cracks. The results provide fundamental understanding of surface fault propagation and have significant implications for future studies on active fault movement.
Researchers find that tree canopy-inspired branching design is more efficient than traditional models in controlling liquid flow. The study uses constructal theory to create 'smart' materials with self-healing and self-cooling properties.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania discovered that diamond's slippery behavior is caused by passivation of atomic bonds, not graphite formation. The team found that friction increases dramatically in dry conditions, highlighting the importance of water vapor for optimal performance.
Researchers at the University of Michigan have created materials that can detect TNT and alert to its presence remotely, reducing danger for military personnel. The system uses low-cost, battery-free sensors that emit light when excited by infrared light, which is then detected by a specially-designed light-collection system.
The National Academy of Engineering has released a list of 20th century's greatest engineering achievements. Stanford's William Perry will present this list, along with challenges the engineering field should address in the 21st century, at an upcoming AAAS meeting.
Climate scientist James Hansen receives AAAS Award for Scientific Freedom and Responsibility for his outspoken advocacy on human influence on global climate. The award recognizes his efforts to protect the public's health and safety by communicating openly with the public about critical research findings.
A computer model developed by Dr. David Morton is being expanded to prioritize radiation detector placement in high-risk areas, using data on smugglers' routes, materials, and methods. The goal is to detect nuclear smuggling attempts more effectively.
A team of researchers has explained the discrepancy between computer simulations and experimental observations of protein behavior under mechanical stress. At slower speeds, hydrogen bonds in proteins behave differently, breaking three at a time when pressure is applied slowly.
Engineered nanomaterials can still penetrate deep inside the body, posing a risk to human health. The science suggests that exposures will occur, and understanding toxicity is crucial for resolving concerns about potential harm.
A multi-scale modeling study at Penn reveals a new theory of behavior for domain-wall motion in ferroelectric materials, reproducing experimental data long at odds with existing theories. The study confirms that small dipoles play a key role in smoothing transition regions as the wall moves.
Peter Cummings is being honored for his groundbreaking research in computational nanoscience, which has led to significant advancements in nanotribology, molecular electronics, and hybrid organic-inorganic nanocomposites. His work has the potential to make nanotechnology a practical reality.
Researchers have made a major breakthrough in understanding the unconventional superconductor URu2Si2 by studying its electron movements using neutron probes. The study reveals that the wandering particles work out an unexpected accommodation in the spacing of their energy levels, leading to a more orderly and cooperative behavior.
A University of Wisconsin-Madison scientist has proven that composite materials can be stable even if one component is unstable, allowing for a wider range of properties and improved overall performance. This breakthrough could lead to materials with virtually limitless performance capabilities.
Researchers are developing a new type of memory chip using magnetism instead of electricity, promising faster performance and longer lifespan. This spintronic memory can be written to quickly and won't wear out, making it ideal for reducing power hunger in computers.
Rice University's new global health program aims to equip students with the skills to tackle complex health issues in developing countries, including poverty, access to medicine, and cultural factors. The $2.2M grant will support undergraduate engineering students in designing solutions to these problems.
Researchers discovered ring-like formations in drying DNA droplets that can impact hybridization studies. These formations, created by stresses propagating from the rim inward through a liquid crystal, should be accounted for in array design.