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Evidence of Viking/Norse metalworking in Arctic Canada

Researchers have found evidence of Viking/Norse metalworking in Arctic Canada, dating back to the 11th century. The discovery includes a stone crucible with fragments of bronze and glass, which suggests that Indigenous peoples did not practice high-temperature metalworking.

SourceWiley·JournalGeoarchaeology·DateDec 15, 2014

Model aims to help recyclers curb high-tech trash

A new computer recycling model developed by Purdue University's Julie Ann Stuart can help recyclers determine the economic viability of processing bulk materials. The model takes into account factors such as metal prices and helps prevent financial losses for recyclers.

SourcePurdue University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Electronics Packaging Manufacturing·DateJan 10, 2001

Silicon-based chemicals from sand

Researchers have discovered a method for producing silicon-based chemicals from sand, rice hull ash, and antifreeze, reducing the need for expensive high-temperature processing and toxic by-products. The new process enables the creation of novel compounds with potential pharmacological activity, such as wound healing and hair growth.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateNov 13, 2000

Why is silicon so brittle?

Scientists use quantum mechanical simulations to explain silicon's fracture anisotropy, which shows cracks prefer certain crystallographic directions. The simulations reveal a key difference in bond breaking behavior between easy and difficult propagation directions.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJun 26, 2000

Controlling the cupola to help the environment

A new sensing and control system is being developed to regulate melt rate, temperature, and iron composition in cupola furnaces, reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The Intelligent, Integrated, Industrial Process Sensing and Control System (I3PSC) has the potential to save 1500 tonnes of coke annually in the US alone.

Rapid Prototyping The Ultrasmall

The USC School of Engineering's Information Sciences Institute has developed a process called EFAB to mass-produce tiny mechanical and electromechanical devices with complex features. This process integrates micromechanics with microelectronics, allowing for the production of sophisticated systems on a chip at relatively low temperatures.

BNL Scientists Report On A Natural Cleanup Solution For Polluted Soil & Incinerator Ash

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory report a natural process that removes nearly all toxic metals and uranium from polluted soil, successfully cleaning incinerator ash. The patented process uses citric acid and sunlight to separate metal contaminants from radioactive elements, producing a concentrated and stable form.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateDec 30, 1998

Towards The Origin Of Brittleness And Ductility

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute of Metals Research have identified two temperature-dependent mechanisms controlling the brittle-to-ductile transition in materials. Dislocation mobility dominates fracture toughness above a characteristic temperature, whereas dislocation nucleation controls fracture toughness below this temperature.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalScience·DateNov 6, 1998

Plastics For Cars

Researchers have developed a new 'self-strengthening' plastic that can be used to make car body panels. The process uses threads of polypropylene to create a rigid sheet with strength similar to composite materials.

SourceInstitute of Materials·JournalMaterials World·DateOct 1, 1998

Money For Old Cable

A new process called Continuous Rotary Extrusion (CRE) can produce high-quality copper from scrap electrical cable at a lower cost and with minimal environmental impact. The recycling centers can be based in compact light industry plants, reducing staff requirements and operating costs.

SourceInstitute of Materials·JournalMaterials World·DateSep 2, 1998