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Scientists develop alternative cement with low carbon footprint

Researchers at MLU and Brazilian University of Pará create climate-friendly cement alternative by replacing limestone with Belterra clay, a previously unused overburden from bauxite mining. The new cement is just as stable as traditional Portland cement and reduces CO2 emissions during production.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalSustainable Materials and Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2021

On the road to faster and more efficient data storage

Researchers have discovered a way to induce magnetic waves in antiferromagnets using ultrafast laser pulses, potentially leading to faster and more efficient data storage. This technology could endow materials with new functionalities for energy-efficient and ultrafast data storage applications.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 17, 2021
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Scalable quantum computing research supported by $2 million grant

A UC Riverside materials scientist has received a $2 million grant to improve the scalability of quantum computers, allowing them to operate at room temperature. The project aims to create design guidelines and manufacturing strategies for hybrid organic-inorganic structures that can produce quantum computers on a larger scale.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·DateAug 17, 2021

Harnessing sunlight to fuel the future through covalent organic frameworks

Researchers highlight the potential of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) in solar-to-fuel production, converting sunlight into hydrogen and other fuels. COF-based photocatalysts have shown promising properties, including improved catalysis and electron delocalization, making them a viable solution for future energy needs.

SourceShoolini University·JournalCoordination Chemistry Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 12, 2021
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.

One-dimensional red phosphorous glows in unexpected ways

Researchers at Aalto University have discovered that fibrous red phosphorous, when electrons are confined in its one-dimensional sub-units, shows large optical responses. The material demonstrates giant anisotropic linear and non-linear optical responses, as well as emission intensity.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 12, 2021

UVA materials science engineers strive to reduce emissions from aircraft engines

Researchers created a duplex bond coat approach that extends the life of engine components, protecting them from chemical reactions and water vapor. The new coating system uses ytterbium disilicate and hafnium oxide to create a stable and durable barrier against high temperatures.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalActa Materialia·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2021

Alginic acid improves artificial bones, study shows

A study published in the Journal of Materials Science: Materials in Medicine found that alginic acid improves artificial bones by increasing porosity, compressive strength, and setting time. The addition of alginic acid to calcium phosphate cement enhances its mechanical properties, allowing for more effective bone replacement.

SourceOsaka City University·JournalJournal of Materials Science Materials in Medicine·TypeNews article·DateAug 11, 2021
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.

Engineers uncover the secrets of fish fins

A team of engineers discovered that the unique design of fish fins, with layered structures made up of stiff and soft materials, enables them to achieve remarkable dexterity and flexibility. This finding could lead to new materials and technologies for robotic applications and aircraft design.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalScience Robotics·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 11, 2021

Mathematical model of thermoplastic composite helps design and certify highly reliable structures

Researchers at Skoltech developed a mathematical model for thermoplastic composite materials, reducing conservatism in strength calculations. The model allows for virtual testing of structures, minimizing manufacturing costs while ensuring safety and quality requirements.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalInternational Journal of Pressure Vessels and Piping·DateAug 10, 2021

Bio-inspired, blood-repelling tissue glue could seal wounds quickly

A new adhesive, inspired by barnacles' sticky substance, can form a tight seal within seconds of application on wet surfaces, including blood-covered tissues. This bio-inspired tissue glue shows promise in rapidly controlling bleeding and may offer a more effective treatment for traumatic injuries.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Biomedical Engineering·DateAug 9, 2021

A database of 3,000 lead isotope analyses in geological and archaeological samples from the Iberian Peninsula

A database of 3,000 lead isotope analyses has been compiled for the Iberian Peninsula, providing a comprehensive resource for geological and archaeological research. The IBERLID database includes standardized data on minerals, rocks, and metallic objects, facilitating comparison and analysis.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalOre Geology Reviews·TypeNews article·DateAug 6, 2021
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.

Scientists mail freeze-dried mouse sperm on a postcard

Researchers in Japan have created a method to preserve mouse sperm by freeze-drying it on a plastic sheet, enabling easy transportation via postcard. The 'sperm book' stored at -30°C, can hold thousands of sperm samples, and the mailing method has shown promising results with high offspring rates.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 5, 2021

Researchers discover new strategy for developing human-integrated electronics

Scientists at the University of Chicago have developed a new approach called click-to-polymer (CLIP) to attach functional units to polymer semiconductors, overcoming limitations in their functionality. The CLIP method enables the creation of multifunctional conjugated polymers for human-integrated electronics, including disease detecto...

SourceUniversity of Chicago·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2021

Built-in vibration control may help soundproof spaces

Researchers at Ohio State University developed built-in resonators that can be cut into walls or vehicle material to suppress vibrations and reduce noise. The design has potential applications in soundproofing walls and building airplane frames that minimize sound intrusion.

SourceOhio State University·JournalThin-Walled Structures·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2021
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

NSF grant kicks off Center for Adapting Flaws into Features

The Center for Adapting Flaws into Features will explore chemical defects to optimize material properties, with a focus on creating better catalysts and electronics. The team aims to develop new approaches towards transformative technologies by leveraging advanced microscopy, spectroscopy, and data science.

SourceRice University·DateAug 3, 2021

Scientists synthesize a material which can completely replace natural gypsum in the construction industry

Researchers develop method to produce high-quality gypsum binders from synthetic calcium sulfate dihydrate, surpassing natural gypsum in several parameters. The new material can replace natural gypsum in countries without gypsum stone deposits, reducing production costs and simplifying technology.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalJournal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry·DateJul 30, 2021

Scientists release new AI-based tools to accelerate functional electronic materials discovery

Scientists developed new AI-based tools to identify and study materials exhibiting a metal-insulator transition (MIT), which could lead to faster and more energy-efficient microelectronic devices. The tools provide a freely available database, online classifier, and new features for characterizing these materials.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalChemistry of Materials·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateJul 28, 2021
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.

Dancing with the light: A new way to make crystals bend by shining light

Researchers at Waseda University have developed a novel mechanism for inducing high-speed bending in thick crystals using the photothermal effect, enabling rapid actuation and simulation. This breakthrough has significant implications for flexible robotics, actuators, and soft robotics.

SourceWaseda University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 28, 2021
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Visibly transparent radiative cooler under direct sunlight

Researchers developed a transparent radiative cooler that transmits visible light while reflecting near-infrared light, radiating heat in the atmospheric window. The material lowered interior temperatures by up to 14.4°C and exterior temperatures by 10.1°C in outdoor experiments.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateJul 14, 2021

Mosquito-resistant clothing prevents bites in trials

Researchers at North Carolina State University developed bite-proof textile materials using a computational model, tested with live mosquitoes and volunteers. The resulting fabrics prevented 100% of mosquito bites in experiments.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalInsects·DateJul 13, 2021
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.

Preventing oxygen release leads to safer high-energy-density batteries

Researchers from Tohoku University discovered that preventing oxygen release in lithium-ion batteries can prevent thermal runaway, a critical issue in high-energy-density batteries. The study found that stabilizing transition metals reduces oxygen release, leading to safer battery performance.

SourceTohoku University·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateJul 12, 2021

Programmable structures from the printer

Scientists have created movable, self-adjusting materials systems with complex shape changes that can be triggered by moisture. These systems mimic the movement mechanisms of the air potato plant and have produced their first prototype: a forearm brace that adapts to the wearer.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalAdvanced Science·DateJul 9, 2021
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.

Thermal waves observed in semiconductor materials

Thermal waves have been observed in germanium at room temperature, a significant improvement in electronic devices performance. The discovery opens new possibilities for controlling heat through wave-like thermal transport.

SourceUniversitat Autonoma de Barcelona·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 30, 2021

Dartmouth research turns up the heat on 3D printing inks

Researchers at Dartmouth College have created a novel process for 3D printing inks that can be activated by heat and moisture, allowing for the creation of complex objects with varying mechanical strengths. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize the field of 3D printing by enabling the creation of single-ink solutions for...

SourceDartmouth College·JournalChem·DateJun 29, 2021

A new concept stent that suppresses adverse effects with cells

A new technology has been developed to reduce adverse effects of medical materials in the human body. The material can be loaded with therapeutic cells and deliver them to desired sites, mitigating inflammation and blood clots.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJun 25, 2021

Ultralight material withstands supersonic microparticle impacts

Researchers have developed an ultralight material made from nanometer-scale carbon struts that provide toughness and mechanical robustness. The material withstood microparticle impacts at supersonic speeds without tearing, outperforming other impact-resistant materials of comparable weight.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 24, 2021

Bioinspired mineralization of calcium carbonate in peptide hydrogel

A team of researchers developed a biomimetic mineralization of calcium carbonate using a multifunctional peptide template that can self-supply mineral sources. The study clarifies the formation mechanism of inorganic crystals and their control by organic templates, facilitating understanding of biomineralization.

SourceShinshu University·JournalJournal of Asian Ceramic Societies·DateJun 23, 2021
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.

Novel smart cement can be used to build more durable roads and cities

Northwestern University researchers have developed a smarter, more durable and highly functional cement by introducing nanoparticles into ordinary cement. The new material shows improved water transport properties, including pore structure and water penetration resistance, with reported relative decreases of 76% and 78%, respectively.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPhilosophical Transactions of the Royal Society of London (A )·DateJun 21, 2021

Princeton-led team discovers unexpected quantum behavior in kagome lattice

A team led by M. Zahid Hasan discovered a new type of ordering in electric charge in a superconducting material with a kagome lattice structure. The researchers used advanced scanning tunneling microscopy to find evidence for topological-type charge order in AV3Sb5, a previously unknown pattern of electronic charge distribution.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 18, 2021

Meringue-like material could make aircraft as quiet as a hairdryer

A team of researchers at the University of Bath has developed a lightweight, meringue-like material made from graphene oxide and polyvinyl alcohol that can significantly reduce aircraft engine noise. This innovative aerogel could be used as insulation within aircraft engines to improve passenger comfort and fuel efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalScientific Reports·DateJun 18, 2021
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.

Concrete wall seismic test data wins NHERI DesignSafe Dataset Award 2021

Researchers generated first-of-its-kind data on lightly reinforced concrete walls, which helped revise New Zealand Concrete Structures Standard and U.S. Building Code Requirements. The dataset, published on NHERI DesignSafe cyberinfrastructure, revealed hidden damage in walls that led to improved understanding of earthquake engineering.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin, Texas Advanced Computing Center·JournalJournal of Structural Engineering·DateJun 17, 2021

Researchers reveal defect properties in Sb2S3 material

A study published in Nature Communications reveals the unique defect properties of low-dimensional materials particularly Sb2S3, which shows advantages in less dangling bonds and reduced recombination of carriers. Sulphur-rich Sb2S3 films exhibited excellent performance with lower density of defects and improved photovoltaic performance.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 17, 2021

New research finds ways to improve accuracy of Lateral Flow Tests

Researchers from King's College London have identified potential modifications to Lateral Flow Devices that can improve their sensitivity and accuracy. The study found that the technology behind the devices is highly accurate but faces limitations in read-out technology.

SourceKing's College London·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJun 16, 2021
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.

New combination of materials provides progress toward quantum computing

Researchers from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute demonstrate a new structure of correlated insulating state in TMDC materials, enabling greater control over excitons. This breakthrough is crucial for developing quantum emitters needed for future quantum simulation and computing.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 14, 2021
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.

From milk protein, a plastic foam that gets better in a tough environment

Researchers at KTH Royal Institute of Technology developed a high-performance plastic foam from whey proteins that can withstand extreme temperatures. The material, which improves its mechanical performance after days of exposure to high temperatures, has potential applications in filtration, thermal insulation, and fluid absorption.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Sustainable Systems·DateJun 11, 2021

Clearer and refocused SEM images

A joint research team from POSTECH and KIMS developed a deep learning-based refocusing method to detect and improve SEM images without human oversight. The technology demonstrated improved image quality on blind settings, moving closer to commercializing AI-based material analysis equipment.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalActa Materialia·DateJun 10, 2021

Machine learning speeds up simulations in material science

Researchers from KIT and universities in Göttingen and Toronto develop machine learning methods to simulate material behavior, achieving high accuracy and speed. Hybrid methods combining machine learning and molecular mechanics are also suggested to accelerate simulations of large biomolecules.

SourceKarlsruher Institut für Technologie (KIT)·JournalNature Materials·DateJun 9, 2021
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

Best of both worlds: High entropy meets low dimensions, opens up infinite possibilities

Scientists from Japan and China create new materials by combining high entropy alloys with van der Waals materials, exhibiting superconductivity, magnetic ordering, and strong corrosion resistance. The discovery opens up a wide range of practical applications, including the design of heterogeneous catalysts.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJun 1, 2021

SwRI works to improve atmospheric water harvesting

Researchers at Southwest Research Institute are developing a cost-effective method for harvesting water from atmospheric air using silica gel beads. This approach can capture water vapor molecules at low humidity levels, making it a promising solution for communities with limited access to clean water.

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·DateJun 1, 2021
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

A new soft electronic material for human-machine-interfacing

Researchers have developed CareGum, a green and recyclable sensor material that can monitor motor impairment associated with neurological disorders. The material offers stretchability, self-healing capacities, and electrical conductivity, allowing for personalized bioelectronics and real-time monitoring of movements.

SourceTechnical University of Denmark·JournalACS Nano·DateMay 31, 2021

NSF renews funding for Two-Dimensional Crystal Consortium

The National Science Foundation has renewed funding for the Materials Innovation Platform at Penn State's Materials Research Institute, enabling the development of new ultra-thin materials with unique quantum properties. The facility will advance 2D materials research across the US, supporting over 100 scientists nationwide.

SourcePenn State·DateMay 25, 2021

AI-aided search for single-atom-alloy catalysts yields more than 200 promising candidates

Researchers at Skoltech developed a new algorithm to identify over 200 previously unknown single-atom-alloy catalysts with improved stability and performance. The AI-powered approach uses machine learning models to extract key parameters from computational data, providing a recipe for finding the best SAACs for specific applications.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 19, 2021

Grant to accelerate AI materials discovery for emissions-free driving

Researchers at Cornell University are using artificial intelligence to discover new materials that could help achieve emissions-free driving. The four-year project combines data-driven deep learning with knowledge-driven reasoning and optimization techniques to accelerate the discovery of new clean energy materials.

SourceCornell University·DateMay 18, 2021
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.

Scientists to take a new step in the microelectronics' development

Researchers at Peter the Great St.Petersburg Polytechnic University developed a new approach to determine the best electrode materials composition for solid-state lithium-ion batteries. The results demonstrated high charge capacity at high current densities using transition metal oxides.

SourcePeter the Great Saint-Petersburg Polytechnic University·JournalNanomaterials·DateMay 18, 2021

Fast, affordable solution proposed for transparent displays and semiconductors

The Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials (KIMM) has developed a roll-based damage-free transfer technique to transfer wafer-scale two-dimensional nanomaterials onto substrates without damage. The proposed technique enables large-area continuous transfer of nanomaterials, similar to paper printing.

SourceNational Research Council of Science & Technology·JournalNPG Asia Materials·DateMay 17, 2021
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.

You're so vein: Scientists discover faster way to manufacture vascular materials

Researchers at Beckman Institute develop new manufacturing process that shortens production time from two days to just minutes, enabling the creation of self-healing structural materials. The technology has potential applications in various fields, including aerospace and construction.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 14, 2021