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Flexible, highly efficient multimodal energy harvesting

Researchers at Penn State developed a new composite material that can efficiently harvest mechanical and thermal energy using a 3D piezoelectric ceramic foam supported by a flexible polymer. The material outperforms traditional piezoelectric composites, offering improved flexibility and energy output.

SourcePenn State·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateMay 21, 2018

Lightweight metal foam blocks blastwave, debris from high-explosive rounds

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new material, stainless steel composite metal foam (CMF), that offers much more protection than existing armor materials while lowering the weight remarkably. The CMF can block blast pressure and fragmentation from high-explosive incendiary rounds with minimal weight loss.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of the Korean Society for Advanced Composite Structures·DateMar 26, 2018
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.

New, simplified technique makes light metallic nanofoam

Researchers at UC Davis developed a simplified method to produce extremely low-density palladium nanofoams, which have potential applications in hydrogen fuel cells. The new technique achieves high loading capacity and excellent thermodynamic stability, making it an ideal candidate for industrial-scale use.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateNov 2, 2017

Football helmet smartfoam signals potential concussions in real time

Researchers at Brigham Young University have developed a nano composite smartfoam that measures the impact of hits via electrical signals, collecting data in real time to determine impact severity and location. The technology has shown 90% accuracy in measuring concussion risks, revolutionizing football safety protocols.

SourceBrigham Young University·JournalAnnals of Biomedical Engineering·DateSep 21, 2017
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.

A dream of foam

Researchers at ETH Zurich have discovered a way to control Ostwald ripening in foams, which causes undesirable changes in texture and weakens product performance. By using networked particles as stabilizers, they can prevent or stop this process, leading to more effective and controlled foam stability.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 19, 2017

Boron nitride foam soaks up carbon dioxide

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new material that can absorb up to 340% of its weight in carbon dioxide, making it a promising solution for capturing greenhouse gases. The boron nitride foam is highly porous and can be tuned for specific applications.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 16, 2017

Rice U. chemists create 3-D printed graphene foam

Researchers from Rice University and China's Tianjin University have successfully created centimeter-sized objects of atomically thin graphene using 3D laser printing. The new method eliminates the need for high-temperature chemical vapor deposition treatment, enabling mass production of bulk graphene with controlled pore size.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateJun 21, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Turning car plastics into foams with coconut oil

A team of researchers has developed a way to convert plastic components from end-of-life vehicles into foams using coconut oil and microwaves. The process creates a stable and high-temperature-resistant material suitable for construction and insulation applications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateJun 7, 2017

A moldable scaffold for bone

A new bioactive foam can be molded to fit irregular skull defects, attracting bone cells to naturally regenerate bone. The foam hardens in place, providing a low-cost alternative to current bone grafts.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·DateApr 7, 2017

Researchers find shoulder pad foam layer plays role in fewer concussions

Researchers found that adding a soft foam layer to shoulder pads reduces the severity of shoulder-to-head impacts, resulting in a 25% decrease in linear acceleration and 12% reduction in rotational velocity. This innovation has potential to prevent brain injuries in ice hockey.

SourceSimon Fraser University·JournalMedicine & Science in Sports & Exercise·DateApr 3, 2017

How a young-looking lunar volcano hides its true age

New research from Brown University suggests that lunar volcano Ina is actually around 3.5 billion years old, not within the past 100 million years as previously thought. The feature's youthful appearance was attributed to its porous surface, created by magmatic foam, which hides regolith buildup and skews crater counts.

SourceBrown University·JournalGeology·DateMar 28, 2017
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.

Argonne invents reusable sponge that soaks up oil

Scientists at Argonne National Laboratory have invented a new foam called Oleo Sponge that can absorb and reuse oil from water. The material has been shown to collect diesel and crude oil from both below and on the surface of the water.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMar 7, 2017

In great shape

Berger's Isomax material achieves low density and uncommon strength, making it suitable for various applications such as aerospace structures and robotic machines. The study's findings support the concept's potential for efficient fabrication and manufacturing.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature·DateFeb 21, 2017

Graphene foam gets big and tough

Researchers at Rice University have developed a new material called rebar graphene, which can be shaped and has exceptional conductivity. The material supports over 3,000 times its own weight without deforming, making it suitable for various applications.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateFeb 14, 2017

Mimicking nature's cellular architectures via 3-D printing

Scientists at Harvard and MIT have developed a new 3D printing method that can create lightweight structural materials with tunable porosity, inspired by natural cellular structures. The approach uses ceramic foam ink to produce materials with exceptional stiffness and multifunctional properties.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 6, 2017
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.

Skin pigment could help strengthen foams and fabrics

Researchers have discovered that adding melanin to polyurethane increases its tensile strength and toughness by up to 10 times. The enhanced material can stretch farther before breaking, making it a promising alternative for various applications.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalBiomacromolecules·DateNov 9, 2016

Coffee-infused foam removes lead from contaminated water

Researchers developed a coffee-infused foam filter that can remove up to 99% of lead and mercury ions from water. The innovative system uses spent coffee grounds in a bioelastomeric foam, making it easy to handle and discard after use.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering·DateOct 6, 2016

Stanford researchers show air bag bike helmets have promise

A new type of bike helmet with an air bag system shows promise in reducing the risk of skull fracture and other brain injuries. The helmet's larger size and cushioning provide added protection, but initial pressure is crucial for optimal performance.

SourceStanford University·JournalAnnals of Biomedical Engineering·DateOct 4, 2016
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.

Foam stops sloshing liquid

Researchers found that capillary forces from soap foam induce pressure gradients near the container walls, reducing sloshing motion. The dampening effect happens faster than expected exponential decay, causing the waves to stop after a finite time.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateSep 13, 2016

Making a multi-use, stiff carbon foam using bread

Researchers develop a simple, affordable method to produce strong, tunable carbon foam by using super-toasted bread, a potential game-changer for various industries. The foam's inner pore structure can be adjusted by changing the yeast and water content.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJul 13, 2016
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Study finds metal foam handles heat better than steel

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a novel light-weight composite metal foam that effectively insulates against high heat. The finding has significant implications for storing and transporting nuclear material, hazardous materials, explosives, and other heat-sensitive materials.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalInternational Journal of Thermal Sciences·DateMar 28, 2016

Using frog foam to deliver antibiotics

The frog foam has been shown to release model dyes and prevent in vitro growth of Staphylococcus aureus for extended periods, indicating its potential as a non-toxic antibiotic delivery system.

SourceMicrobiology Society·DateMar 22, 2016

Video: Morphing metal shapes future of soft robotics

Cornell University engineers have developed a hybrid material combining stiff metal and soft rubber foam for dynamic shape changes, self-healing and improved load-bearing capabilities. The material features a unique ability to melt and reform, mimicking the flexibility of an octopus.

SourceCornell University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 21, 2016
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.

New ceramic firefighting foam becomes stronger when temperature increases

A team of chemists from ITMO University has developed a novel type of firefighting foam based on inorganic silica nanoparticles, beating existing analogues in fire extinguishing capacity and thermal stability. The new foam is fully biodegradable and non-toxic to living organisms.

SourceITMO University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateDec 14, 2015

Physics of wrapping miniature droplets takes cue from street foods

Scientists have found that wrapping tiny liquid droplets in ultrathin elastic sheets produces half-moon shapes similar to street foods. The researchers discovered this shape arises from the most efficient way to cover the drop, minimizing exposed liquid surface area.

SourceSyracuse University·JournalNature Materials·DateDec 9, 2015

Liquid foam: Plastic, elastic and fluid

French physicists develop a novel understanding of foam flow in a wedge-shaped channel, identifying connections between plastic events and deformation rates. This study has implications for further research on liquid foam properties and their impact on mechanical energy absorption.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateNov 30, 2015

From trees to power: McMaster engineers build better energy storage device

Researchers develop lightweight and high-power density capacitors using nanocellulose-based materials, paving the way for more efficient and environmentally friendly electronics. The new devices offer faster charging abilities and can accumulate energy during braking to release it during acceleration.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 6, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Flame retardant breakthrough is naturally derived and nontoxic

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have created a new flame retardant made from polydopamine, a natural compound found in humans and animals. The nanocoating reduces fire intensity by 67% and is about 20% better than existing flame retardants.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateOct 5, 2015

A metal composite that will (literally) float your boat

Researchers have developed a new metal matrix composite that is so light it can float on water, with potential applications in boat flooring, automobile parts, and buoyancy modules. The composite's high density and strength make it suitable for withstanding rigorous marine conditions.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalInternational Journal of Impact Engineering·DateMay 12, 2015

Quenching the thirst for clean, safe water

A new foam water filter has been developed by Michigan State University researchers, which significantly reduces dangerous pathogens in drinking water. The filter combines existing treatment principles and features a unique biological layer that enables it to become more efficient over time.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalAmerican Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene·DateApr 29, 2015
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.

Researchers create first metal-free catalyst for rechargeable zinc-air batteries

Case Western Reserve University researchers have developed a metal-free bifunctional electrocatalyst that performs as well or better than most metal and metal oxide electrodes in zinc-air batteries. The carbon-based catalyst works efficiently in both oxygen reduction and oxygen evolution reactions, making the battery rechargeable.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateApr 6, 2015

Searching for traces in the atmosphere

Researchers at Empa measure first generation of coolants in the Swiss atmosphere, finding a faster decay rate than predecessors. The study highlights environmental concerns related to these substances, including their potential impact on ecosystems and human health.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 24, 2015

New materials discovered to detect neutrons emitted by radioactive materials

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a new material, boron-coated vitreous carbon foam, to detect neutrons emitted by radioactive materials. This breakthrough improves homeland security and nuclear power instrumentation, overcoming the scarcity of traditional detection material helium-3.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 4, 2015

ACP releases new guidelines for preventing and treating bedsores

The American College of Physicians has released new guidelines for preventing and treating bedsores, recommending protein supplementation and hydrocolloid dressings to reduce wound size. Advanced static mattresses and overlays are also recommended for patients at increased risk, while alternating air mattresses and overlays are advised...

SourceAmerican College of Physicians·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateMar 2, 2015

Why a latte is less likely to spill than a coffee

Princeton scientists discovered that foam significantly dampens liquid sloshing by absorbing energy through friction with container walls. The team's research has applications beyond breakfast beverages, including safer transport of hazardous liquids.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateFeb 24, 2015
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

New technique to make foams could lead to lightweight, sustainable materials

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed a new type of foam called capillary foam that solves many of the problems faced by traditional foams. This new foam is stable for months or years and can be made using a small amount of oil, expanding the range of particles useful for stabilizing foams.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateOct 5, 2014

Copper foam turns carbon dioxide into useful chemicals

Researchers have discovered that copper foams can convert carbon dioxide into formic acid and propylene, two valuable industrial chemicals. The discovery provides a new route for sustainable chemical production, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

SourceBrown University·JournalACS Catalysis·DateAug 12, 2014

Foam favorable for oil extraction

Researchers at Rice University have found that foam is more effective than water, gas, and surfactant combinations in removing oil from low-permeability formations. Foam's unique properties allow it to penetrate and dislodge oil without losing its effectiveness, making it a promising tool for enhanced oil recovery.

SourceRice University·JournalLab on a Chip·DateAug 12, 2014
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.

Tough foam from tiny sheets

Researchers at Rice University have developed a tough and ultralight foam using atomic-scale materials, with properties including high strain handling and bounce-back ability. The foam can be tailored to any size and shape, and its lightweight density is 400 times less than graphite.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 29, 2014

Squishy robots

A phase-changing material developed by MIT researchers allows robots to transform between a rigid and soft state, enabling them to navigate through tight spaces without damaging organs or vessels. The material can also self-heal and repair damage, making it suitable for applications such as surgical robotics and search-and-rescue opera...

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalMacromolecular Materials and Engineering·DateJul 14, 2014

Earth-Kind roses analyzed for salt tolerance

Researchers evaluated 18 Earth-Kind rose varieties for salt tolerance in two locations, finding that 'Belinda's Dream', 'Climbing Pinkie', and 'Mrs. Dudley Cross' were the most tolerant. The study recommends these cultivars for landscapes with high soil salinity.

SourceAmerican Society for Horticultural Science·JournalHortScience·DateJun 30, 2014
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.

Improved supercapacitors for super batteries, electric vehicles

Scientists at UC Riverside developed a nanometer scale ruthenium oxide anchored graphene foam architecture that improves supercapacitors' performance, delivering two times more energy and power. The design shows promising properties for future energy storage applications.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScientific Reports·DateMay 19, 2014

Study finds hazardous flame retardants in preschools

A new study has found that flame retardants are prevalent indoors in preschools and day care centers, potentially exposing young children to hazardous chemicals. The study reveals high levels of PBDEs and tris phosphate compounds in dust samples, with concentrations often higher in facilities with foam equipment.

SourceUniversity of California - Berkeley·JournalChemosphere·DateMay 15, 2014

Beer foam secrets tapped in new study

A new study from Cornell University has identified LTP1 as the key to perfect beer foam. The research found that the right amount and kind of barley lipid transfer protein No. 1 is essential for creating optimal foam.

SourceCornell University·JournalJournal of the American Society of Brewing Chemists·DateMay 14, 2014
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

The ATM strikes back

Researchers developed a self-defending surface that releases hot foam to deter attackers, protecting cash boxes in ATMs. The film is made of plastic layers filled with chemicals that mix when damaged, producing a violent reaction.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateApr 11, 2014

Study suggests ways to improve common furniture fire test

Researchers at NIST and American University suggest changes to the common furniture fire test to make it more realistic, focusing on air flow and foam materials. The modifications aim to identify upholstery materials most likely to prevent smoldering ignition, with potential implications for fire safety regulations.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalPolymer Degradation and Stability·DateFeb 10, 2014
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.

The scientific explanation of why beer overflows

Researchers discovered that the rapid transformation from liquid to foamy state is caused by an impact, leading to cavitation. The phenomenon can be used to predict gas production in volcanic eruptions and improve boat propeller design.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·DateJan 20, 2014