News on research driving industry and manufacturing. Covers petrochemical emissions, food innovation, controlled-explosion labs, and industry-academic partnerships.
Researchers developed a groundbreaking control method to reduce carbon emissions from zinc oxide rotary kilns while maintaining high profits. The method uses a multi-objective adaptive optimization model predictive control approach to optimize the process in real-time.
A research team has developed an innovative intelligent control method for low-carbon operation of energy-intensive equipment, combining mechanism analysis with deep learning. The method achieved significant reductions in carbon emissions, while maintaining optimal operational efficiency and increasing product yield by up to 3.65%.
Researchers have developed a new semiconducting material called multielement ink that can be processed at low temperatures, paving the way for more sustainable semiconductor industry. The breakthrough enables faster and lower-energy production of semiconductors, which could significantly reduce carbon emissions.
Researchers propose analysis protocol to evaluate feasibility of silicon-containing batteries with reduced particle size and uniform dispersion. The study finds promising results from innovative synthesis technology and initial efficiencies exceeding 90% with improved lifespan characteristics.
Researchers have developed a standardized synthetic molasses with a fully known composition that can be used as a culture medium for yeast fermentation. This breakthrough enables scientists to study the influence of specific components and develop bioprocesses worldwide, facilitating comparative research and industrial applications.
A University at Buffalo-led research team has created a new, sturdier membrane that can withstand harsh environments associated with industrial separation processes. The membrane, made from an inorganic material called carbon-doped metal oxide, is a potential alternative to energy-intensive processes like distillation and crystallization.
A comprehensive review explores how industrial biotechnology and biopharmaceutical manufacturing leverage similar frameworks for efficient biochemical production. Advances in synthetic biology, genetic engineering, and high-throughput screening have contributed to rapid progress in new product development.
A new strategy optimizes optical and electrical characteristics of thin c-Si solar cells, improving conversion efficiency by 28% compared to industrial thick counterparts. The proposed design uses a layer transfer method and metal nanofilms for enhanced light absorption and surface passivation.
Researchers at MIT have developed a novel superconducting qubit architecture that can perform operations between qubits with high accuracy, exceeding 99.9% for two-qubit gates and 99.99% for single-qubit gates. The new design utilizes fluxonium qubits, which have longer lifespans than traditional transmon qubits.
The University of Rochester is awarded funding to design and prototype the EP-OPAL facility, which will enable the creation of the highest-power laser system in the world. The facility aims to reestablish US leadership in high-peak-power lasers and fundamental science.
A comprehensive study found no evidence that e-cigarettes promote smoking and may even compete against cigarettes, potentially speeding up the decline in smoking rates. The study compared countries with different e-cigarette regulations and found a slower decline in smokers among those with stricter controls.
A new global study assesses the scale of metal mining contamination in river systems worldwide, impacting human populations and ecosystem services. The research estimates 23 million people affected by toxic waste, highlighting the need for new safeguards to address growing demand for 'green' minerals.
Deforestation contributes to climate change, producing 6-17% of global greenhouse gas emissions. New satellite-based technology tracks forest change globally, enabling policymakers to understand the problem and develop solutions.
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have grown a high-performing 2D semiconductor, indium selenide (InSe), to industrial-scale wafers. The team's success hinged on a growth technique that overcame InSe's atomic structure quirks, producing a material with uniform chemical and crystalline properties.
A study by Waseda University researchers found that car ownership among older Japanese adults is associated with higher self-rated health status, greater independence, and a more positive attitude towards receiving help. The study suggests that autonomous driving may play a key role in improving mobility for older adults.
Using a new technique, researchers created the first 3D tomograms of a ceramic object being printed using laser-based powder bed fusion, revealing detailed information about the manufacturing process. The findings will help improve this promising technology and provide valuable insights for future applications.
A new filtration process can result in a pasteurization-resistant microbacterium passing into fluid milk if equipment isn't properly cleaned. Microfiltration extends shelf-life by removing bacteria via the removal of bacteria via the microfiltration process.
A team of UC researchers, led by Ashley Kubley, have received a $2.5 million state grant to continue research on improving firefighter protective gear. The project aims to develop a firefighter jacket liner that brings down body temperature through advanced cooling technology and protects against external hazards.
The UNIST team successfully fabricated high-quality Te thin films without heat treatment at low temperatures, achieving perfect atom arrangement. The developed process enables precise thickness control and uniform deposition on wafer-scale, suitable for various electronic devices.
Researchers developed a groundbreaking soft valve technology that integrates sensors and control valves into soft robots, eliminating the need for electric components. This innovation enables safe operation underwater or in environments with sparks risks, reducing weight burdens and costs.
The Beckman Institute has received a $3.6 million NSF grant to acquire an automated system for designing and analyzing polymers. The system will accelerate the discovery of useful materials, especially in combination with artificial intelligence.
Researchers have genetically engineered Vibrio natriegens to produce enzymes that can break down polyethylene terephthalate (PET) in salt water. This breakthrough addresses the challenge of removing plastics from oceans and could lead to more sustainable solutions.
Researchers create process to recycle polypropylene, polyethylene and polystyrene plastics into chemical ingredients useful for energy storage. The new method uses LEDs and a catalyst, reducing greenhouse emissions compared to traditional recycling processes.
The UK National Clean Maritime Research Hub aims to accelerate the decarbonisation of maritime activity in ports and at sea. The hub will carry out innovative research in sustainable marine fuels and their safe use, low-carbon power and propulsion systems for shipping.
Researchers at West Virginia University have developed a technology that can capture carbon dioxide from the air of buildings and use it to produce methanol, a common chemical with numerous applications. The process is expected to increase the sustainable supply of methanol while removing greenhouse gases from the atmosphere.
GIST researchers found that nano-sized pits on AlN surfaces cause graphene degradation at higher temperatures, leading to GaN film exfoliation failure. The study's results demonstrate the importance of substrate chemical and topographic properties for successful remote epitaxy.
Researchers have found that sorghum bran packs a bigger nutritional punch than whole grain due to its high levels of calcium, magnesium, leucine, and valine. The climate-resilient grain holds its own against other top grains in terms of macro- and micronutrients.
Dr Saskia Limbach receives ERC Starting Grant to investigate the effects of the printing press on widows' rights and agency. The project 'WidowsPrint' aims to reconstruct the professional networks of women book printers and analyse their economic contributions in 16th-17th century Germany.
A recent study evaluates the feasibility of ammonia-based power generation through techno-economic and carbon footprint analyses. The research reveals an impressive energy efficiency rate of 46.7% within the designed power generation process, with costs and greenhouse gas emissions considered.
Research shows that tobacco-owned food brands have selectively disseminated hyperpalatable foods, making them hard to resist. This study found that these foods are high in fat, sugar, sodium, or refined carbohydrates, leading to increased risk of obesity and related health consequences.
The NSF Science and Technology Center for Quantitative Cell Biology will create whole-cell models to transform understanding of cell function. The center will use cutting-edge imaging and simulation tools, including Minecraft, to advance research into gene expression, metabolism, and division.
Using biochar in cement enhances mechanical properties and contributes to sustainability objectives, reducing the need for traditional cement content. This study provides an overview of biochar's suitability as a sustainable additive in cement, promoting environmentally beneficial outcomes.
Researchers have devised an efficient method of recovering high-purity silicon from expired solar panels, which can help meet the increasing global demand for electric vehicles. The new extraction method using phosphoric acid achieved a recovery rate of 98.9% and purity of 99.2%, comparable to existing methods.
Researchers from Tokyo University of Science have developed a catalyst support based on titanium dioxide powder to facilitate effective CO2 reduction. The study demonstrated increased hydrogen production and enhanced catalytic performance with silver nanoparticles loaded onto the TiO2 surface.
Researchers from Korea Maritime and Ocean University developed a new framework for solving the energy efficiency problem in IIoTs. The proposed SWIPT-NOMA-DAS system is five times more energy efficient than existing systems, with significant improvements in performance and battery life extension.
A new study breaks down the complex structure of snail mucus, revealing three unique types of secretions with different functions. The researchers identified novel proteins, some of which have never been seen before, and found that subtle differences in composition can significantly impact properties.
Researchers developed an automated viral plaque assay method combining time-lapse holographic imaging and deep learning to greatly reduce detection time. This technique can aid in developing new vaccines and antiviral drugs by expediting the testing process, allowing for faster response times to virus-induced health emergencies.
Researchers have developed an electrochemical cell that can easily capture and release CO2, a major contributor to industrial emissions. The device operates at room temperature and requires less energy than traditional methods, making it a promising alternative for industries that struggle with electrification.
The American Heart Association introduces principles for data sharing to advance patient outcomes, highlighting transparency and privacy concerns. The new policy statement aims to protect patients' sensitive information while facilitating valuable research discoveries.
A new study by City University of London researchers found that lower perceptions of gender equality and workplace sexual harassment significantly impact job satisfaction in newsrooms globally. The study highlights the need for structural changes to combat inequalities affecting women in the industry, including policies to address all ...
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology have developed a sensor technology called computer vision-based optical strain (CVOS) that enhances durability and streamlines fabrication processes. This breakthrough enables the precise recognition of intricate bodily motions through a single sensor.
A machine learning model has been developed to distinguish the composition ratio of solid mixtures of chemical compounds using only photographs. The model was trained on a small dataset and achieved accuracy roughly twice that of human experts.
Researchers propose integrated metasurfaces that can be combined with standard optical components like LEDs and LCDs for commercialization. Collaboration between industry and academia is crucial for developing innovative optical platforms.
The Graphene Flagship project has produced significant contributions to Europe's GDP and GVA, with an estimated return on investment of 14.5-fold. By 2030, the project aims to create over 81,000 jobs internationally.
Researchers at National Korea Maritime and Ocean University developed a close contact identification algorithm that outperforms conventional clustering algorithms. The algorithm enables accurate tracking and physical isolation of individuals in ship environments, contributing to the health and safety of passengers.
A new essay highlights how news stories about healthcare workers during COVID-19 often left out crucial socioeconomic and environmental contexts, which can impact consumer thoughts and responses. By introducing a public health framework, experts aim to broaden storytelling and reframed scientific information dissemination.
Research has clarified how starch granules form in wheat seeds, unlocking diverse potential benefits for various industries. The discovery of the enzyme PHS1 crucial for B-type granule initiation offers opportunities to create variations in starch for different food and industrial applications.
Scientists at NTU Singapore have developed a flexible, human cornea-thin battery that can store electricity from saline solution. The battery could power smart contact lenses with displays and augmented reality capabilities.
Scientists at Nanyang Technological University have developed a sustainable method to produce lactic acid using discarded jackfruit seeds. The new process is cheaper and more efficient, reducing waste and environmental impact while addressing rising production costs.
A new immune-infiltrated human kidney organoid-on-chip model enables the assessment of on-target, off-tumor effects of immunotherapeutic T cell bispecific antibody drugs. The study's findings provide important insights into which cells are targeted by a given TCB and what, if any, off-target damage arises.
Researchers found that certain anti-cancer compounds cause distinct nucleolar shapes and stress, which can be measured using a new classification system. This discovery could lead to improved understanding of why some drugs fail in clinical trials, providing a potential tool for identifying promising drug candidates.
Researchers at Weill Cornell Medicine discovered a new relationship between cancer cells and the immune system, showing how prolonged activation of the STING pathway leads to cellular signaling changes that aid cancer's spread. This finding explains why drugs activating STING have been unsuccessful in clinical trials.
Researchers developed a fluorinated diamond-like carbon coating that improves heat transfer in steam condensers, allowing for a 2% overall process boost. This innovation could save 460 million tons of CO2 and 2 trillion gallons of water annually if coal and natural gas power generation were just 2% more efficient.
Engineers at RMIT University have developed a technique to make concrete 30% stronger using biochar made from roasted used-coffee grounds. This innovation reduces waste going to landfills and emits fewer greenhouse gases, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional construction materials.
University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers have developed a new approach to manufacturing ingredients for pharmaceuticals by combining hydrogen with electricity. This process is more sustainable than traditional methods, which use large quantities of zinc metal, generating environmentally unfriendly waste.
Researchers develop adaptive fuzzy sliding mode controller to estimate unknown parameters and control nonlinear PAMs, showing improved tracking accuracy and adaptability compared to traditional methods.
A modeling study suggests the US can achieve deep emissions reductions in the building sector by 91% by 2050, primarily through demand-side measures. This would save over $100 billion per year in energy-related costs while meeting the country's net-zero emissions target.
A Texas A&M University team is exploring 3D printing to create tailored medication dosage and tablet size for young children, addressing the need for greater flexibility in administering medications. The project aims to maintain drugs' integrity and effectiveness while advancing the field of pharmaceutical manufacturing.
A recent review paper highlights the need for an interdisciplinary approach to designing and implementing renewable energy systems. Local communities' values and concerns must be considered to ensure public backing for the essential energy transition. The study emphasizes the risks of ignoring socio-technical grand challenges in wind e...
The researcher aims to bridge completeness, efficiency, and applications in 3D graphs to solve problems in physics, fluid dynamics, and biotechnology. Geometric graphs can represent molecules, proteins, and drugs, enabling the prediction of their behavior and properties.