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The boundaries of drainage basins shifted faster during past episodes of climate change, according to a new theory by Ben-Gurion University geologists

Researchers have presented a unique time-dependent record of drainage divide migration rates, showing that episodes of rapid shift coincide with past climate changes in the Negev over the last 230,000 years. This discovery accelerates our understanding of how climate affects the Earth's surface.

SourceBen-Gurion University of the Negev·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeObservational study·DateMar 10, 2025

New technique from Brown University researchers offers more precise maps of the Moon’s surface

The study enhances shape-from-shading technique to create detailed models of lunar terrain with higher resolutions and faster production speeds. Researchers use advanced computer algorithms to automate the process, resulting in more accurate maps that show subtle features and variations of lunar surface terrain.

SourceBrown University·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateMay 29, 2024

Turning waste into treasure: Second-tier structure matters for regulating liquid spreading dynamics

Researchers have developed a simplified surface design that enables liquid directional steering on the same surface as conventional designs. The new surface topography features dual reentrant curvatures and microgrooves, which regulate liquids' spreading dynamics. This innovation simplifies fabrication and opens up practical applications.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateMay 10, 2023

How to land on a planet safely

Researchers developed a model to describe the interaction between a rocket plume and planetary surfaces, providing insights into erosion and contamination. The simulation estimates plume shape, temperature, and pressure, as well as material eroded or displaced, for safer landing sites and spacecraft design.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateApr 25, 2023

Study finds tactile impressions add product value

A study conducted by researchers at Hiroshima University found that smartphone users are willing to pay a premium for different surface textures on their phone covers. The study's findings suggest that the commercial viability of surface texture has not been empirically examined, but could be an important aspect of product design.

SourceHiroshima University·JournalIEEE Access·DateSep 26, 2022

New software platform advances understanding of the surface finish of manufactured components

Scientists developed a software platform to analyze surfaces, creating digital twins that predict material properties like adhesion and durability. The contact.engineering platform standardizes procedure and facilitates open science, allowing users to share measurements and collaborate.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalSurface Topography Metrology and Properties·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateSep 19, 2022

A historical perspective on glacial retreat

A team of researchers from ETH Zurich and WSL reconstructed the topography of all Swiss glaciers in 1931 using stereophotogrammetry. They found that the glacier volume halved between 1931 and 2016, with some glaciers losing mass at varying rates depending on factors like altitude, snout shape, and debris coverage.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalThe Cryosphere·DateAug 22, 2022

A CARE-ing route to advanced nanoelectronics

Osaka University researchers developed an ultra-thin film of magnetite with superior crystallinity and conductive properties, overcoming challenges in spintronics technology. The discovery enables the film to undergo a temperature-dependent resistivity change, crucial for implementation in quantum computing technologies.

SourceOsaka University·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

Now metal surfaces can be instant bacteria killers

Researchers at Purdue University have developed a technique that uses laser-texturing to create nanoscale patterns on metal surfaces, instantly killing bacteria and viruses. The technology has potential applications in medical devices such as orthopedic implants and wearable patches for chronic wounds.

SourcePurdue University·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·DateApr 9, 2020

The origins of roughness

Scientists discovered that all materials develop identical statistical properties when exposed to mechanical deformation, leading to self-affine surface roughness. This finding explains the observed universality of surface roughness across different scales and materials.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 17, 2020

What can snakes teach us about engineering friction?

Researchers at Drexel University have found that snake skin's unique texture and micro-structure create a distinct friction profile, which can be used to inform the design of textured surfaces. By studying over 350 species of snakes, they have developed a framework for creating 'smart surfaces' with new frictional capabilities.

SourceDrexel University·JournalJournal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials·DateMay 21, 2018

Snake bellies help scientists get a grip

Researchers studied three species of snakes to understand how their unique belly shapes aid in climbing. Brown tree snakes have sharp-edged keels that allow them to grip and propel themselves up trees efficiently, a trait also seen in some corn snakes but not boa constrictors.

SourceUniversity of Cincinnati·JournalJournal of Experimental Biology·DateDec 17, 2015

Friction reduction breakthrough is no snake oil

Researchers have developed a surface texture inspired by snake skin that reduces friction by 40% in tests of high-performance materials. The discovery has significant implications for the reliability of mechanical components in machines such as cars and robots, particularly in dusty environments.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalBioinspiration & Biomimetics·DateJun 30, 2015

Not just for raincoats

The study reveals a miniature version of the 'water hammer' effect, which causes pressure spikes in water droplets on textured surfaces. This insight could lead to the design of more effective superhydrophobic surfaces for various applications, including energy efficiency improvements.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateFeb 8, 2011

Physicists pin down spin of surface atoms

UC Berkeley physicists have successfully measured the spin of an individual atom on a surface, a key achievement for both quantum computing and spintronics. By employing low-temperature spin-polarized scanning tunneling spectroscopy, researchers were able to determine the spin of isolated adatoms atop cobalt nanoislands.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateSep 12, 2007