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From plastic to protein powder

Researchers at Michigan Tech and the University of Illinois are working on a project to convert plastic waste into protein powder and lubricants using chemical and high heat deconstruction. The team aims to develop a system that can break down plastic quickly, producing nutritional supplements and fuel.

High color purity 3D printing

Researchers at ICFO have developed a new photothermal sensitizer using tungsten oxide nanoparticles, enabling the production of high-color-purity 3D objects and overcoming previous limitations. The new method allows for efficient and cost-effective fabrication of complex geometries with precise color control.

Healthy climate news: Fava beans could replace soy

Researchers at the University of Copenhagen found that fava beans can be processed into a concentrated protein powder using a unique method called wet fractionation, which increases protein content and improves digestibility. Fava beans are also more climate-friendly than soy due to local cultivation and reduced genetic modification.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen·JournalFoods·DateApr 16, 2020

Separating drugs with MagLev

The MagLev method uses magneto-Archimedes levitation to separate and isolate different drugs from sample mixtures, allowing for precise identification. The technique can distinguish between up to seven substances simultaneously and has the potential to complement or replace existing portable drug identification techniques.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateDec 9, 2019

Drug dust

Researchers at Harvard University have developed a promising new tool called MagLev that can identify smaller concentrations of drug powders than any other device. The technology separates substances based on density and can handle far more substances than current quick-test options.

SourceHarvard University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateNov 12, 2019

Researchers' review paper reveal insights into high quality fabrication of nanocomposites

A comprehensive review paper provides a thorough understanding of the scientific and technological knowledge behind nanocomposite fabrication using selective laser melting. The study highlights the potential of this additive manufacturing technology for creating customized parts with unique structures and properties.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalProgress in Materials Science·DateAug 26, 2019

Novel powdered milk method yields better frothing agent

Researchers at Penn State have developed a novel method to create skim milk powders with enhanced properties and functionality, offering a potential replacement for synthetic emulsifying agents. The new processing technology could lead to the creation of foaming agents that are recognizable on food labels.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of Food Engineering·DateJul 23, 2019

Powder could help cut CO2 emissions

Scientists at the University of Waterloo have created a powder that can capture CO2 from factories and power plants, offering a promising solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The powder is twice as efficient as conventional methods and has potential applications in water filtration and energy storage.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalCarbon·DateDec 19, 2018

Cappuccino made with jackfruit seed flour has chocolate aroma

A study conducted in Brazil found that roasted jackfruit seeds can replace between 50% and 75% of cocoa powder in milk and coffee used to make cappuccino without impairing flavor or aroma. The researchers developed an instant powder containing coffee with milk and chocolate, which can be a potential substitute for traditional cappuccino.

For graphite pellets, just add elbow grease

Scientists at Rice University have developed a method to produce strong, lightweight graphite pellets without the need for high-temperature processing. The pellets exhibit good conductivity and stability in various conditions, making them suitable for applications such as conducting cables and electrodes.

SourceRice University·JournalCarbon·DateMar 22, 2018

Pulling iron out of waste printer toner

A team of researchers has created a process to transform residual toner powder from discarded printer cartridges into iron, offering an environmentally friendly way to reuse electronic waste. The method involves heating the toner powder to 1550 °C, resulting in a product with 98% pure iron.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateNov 15, 2017

Microfinance institutions are found effective in giving health products to underserved communities

A new study by The Arnhold Institute for Global Health found that microfinance institutions can effectively distribute essential health products to rural communities, leading to improved child health outcomes. Microfinance networks were used to deliver micronutrient supplements, resulting in a significant impact on the health of childr...

Fixation of powder catalysts on electrodes

Researchers developed a new method to tightly fix powder catalysts on electrode surfaces, addressing the challenge of high physical stress induced by gas evolving reactions. The technique involves applying an organic polymer that transforms into carbon at high temperatures, providing a stable and conductive surface for catalysis.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJun 30, 2017

Food scientists: We can detect much more food fraud

Researchers from the University of Copenhagen have reviewed the use of NIR spectroscopy to detect food fraud in Current Opinion in Food Science. The method can reveal far more food fraud than current methods, including intentional misrepresentation and undeclared introduction of cheaper substances. By examining large quantities of raw ...

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalCurrent Opinion in Food Science·DateOct 5, 2016