News on research driving industry and manufacturing. Covers petrochemical emissions, food innovation, controlled-explosion labs, and industry-academic partnerships.
A new study by Cornell University researchers found that wage and benefit violations are the primary reason for high turnover rates among global apparel factory workers. The study suggests that companies prioritize profit over worker well-being, leading to poor working conditions. As European governments develop new laws to regulate co...
Researchers at Australian National University have developed a new way to boost the performance of silicon photovoltaic cells. By adding passivating contacts, they significantly reduce electrical losses and increase productivity.
Researchers from the University of Kassel developed an approach to extend the limits of interferometric topography measurements for optical resolution below small structures. Microsphere assistance enables fast and label-free imaging without requiring extensive sample preparation.
Researchers at Texas A&M University used functional near-infrared spectroscopy to monitor participant responses during human-robot collaborations. They found that faulty robot actions decreased operator trust and associated it with increased brain activity in the frontal, motor, and visual cortices.
Researchers from South China University of Technology have developed novel surface modification techniques for nickel-rich layered oxide cathode materials, improving their electrochemical performance. The techniques allow for high-performance nickel-rich cathode materials to be synthesized, enabling in-depth mechanisms to be captured a...
Researchers at Fudan University reviewed fundamental mechanisms and recent developments in selective laser sintering of polymers. The study highlights the need for innovative materials, sintering methods, and post-processing techniques to improve the efficiency and performance of SLS polymer parts.
A Tel Aviv University study reveals that the Israeli shoreline is contaminated with more than two million tons of microplastics, with Tel Aviv and Hadera beaches being the most polluted. The researchers warn that exposure to microplastic waste is unavoidable and poses a risk to human health.
A University of Central Florida researcher is leading a $1.25 million project to map and manipulate materials at the nanoscale. The research aims to unlock new capabilities of materials at the nanoscale, potentially leading to new catalysts and compounds applicable in quantum science, renewable energy, life sciences and sustainability.
The US Harmful Algal Bloom Control Technology Incubator aims to advance innovative ways to control blooms impacting marine ecosystems and regional economies. The partnership between UMCES and Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium will offer funding and guidance for innovative control technology projects.
Vivli's generalist repository is the largest clinical trial repository in the world, providing managed access to over 6,600 trials. The platform has contributed to over 100 publications and features a COVID-19 portal with quick data addition capabilities.
A new study found that air pollution from factories and vehicles is associated with faster disease progression and premature death for patients with fibrotic interstitial lung disease. Increasing levels of PM2.5 were linked to more severe disease, faster disease progression, and higher likelihood of dying sooner.
A recent study published in Engineering Construction & Architectural Management identified the main obstacles preventing digital transformation in the engineering and construction industry. The three main problems are a lack of laws and regulations, a lack of support and leadership, and a lack of resources and professionals.
Research by the University of Exeter found high levels of antibiotic ciprofloxacin in UK wastewater, posing a significant risk to human health. The study suggests that antibiotic pollution from human waste can increase resistance to antibiotics, even in countries with well-established sanitation infrastructures.
A research team from POSTECH and KAIST found that cations play a crucial role in converting CO2 into valuable chemical products like ethylene. The study reveals a new mechanism for high-performance catalytic conditions, paving the way for carbon-neutral technologies.
Working with robots may lead to increased reports of burnout and incivility among employees. Self-affirmation exercises can help mitigate fears about being replaced by machines.
A new project aims to develop sustainable roses resistant to biotic and abiotic stresses, and have high ornamental quality. The researchers are combining traditional plant breeding with molecular genetics to stack multiple resistance genes into a rose.
A new system developed at the University of Waterloo can affordably convert CO2 into fuels and valuable chemicals. The technology yields 10 times more carbon monoxide than existing methods, making it economically viable for industrial-scale use.
A team of researchers developed a power sector model to analyze pathways to full independence from Russian natural gas imports. The study found that Europe can eliminate reliance on Russian gas by augmenting REPowerEU plans with temporary boosts in coal and recalibrated gas storage.
Researchers at McGill University developed a cost-effective way to produce nanocrystals from cellulose and chitin using high-humidity shaker aging. The new technique reduces water usage, eliminates toxic solvents, and increases yields.
The researchers used a new technique to capture the first cross-sectional images of carbon dioxide in the exhaust plume of a commercial jet engine. The images show a ring-structure of high carbon dioxide concentration and a raised region in the middle of the plume.
New research models the value of clean hydrogen in decarbonizing heavy industries and transportation in China. A widespread application of clean hydrogen in HTA sectors can save $1.72 trillion in investment costs and avoid a 0.13% loss in aggregate GDP.
Researchers identified 7 core categories of behaviors important for human-dog bonds, including attunement, communication, and physical affection. These behaviors may be incorporated into robotic systems to provide mental health benefits for humans.
A research team at POSTECH and Sungkyunkwan University has developed an ultrahigh refractive index metamaterial that maximizes light-matter interaction. The material recorded the highest-ever refractive index of 7.8 in visible and near-infrared regions, enabling strong reflection of specific wavelengths.
A new international study finds that dairy cows and their calves experience worse welfare than beef cattle. The researchers' assessment of bovine welfare risks is based on expert opinions from around the world.
Scientists developed a cellulose nanofiber-carbon fiber composite film with excellent in-plane anisotropic thermal conductivity, improving heat dissipation in thin-film devices. The material also exhibits recyclability and can be reused after burning the cellulose matrix.
A team of international scientists found that many densely populated coastal cities worldwide are at risk from sea level rise due to land subsidence. The study used satellite images to estimate the rate of land sinking in 48 cities, with median speeds ranging from 16.2mm/year to 43mm/year.
Geologists mapped how historical coking and smelting led to toxic metal pollutants in Pittsburgh's soil, particularly in the eastern half of the city. The team found that concentrations of soil metals were higher in valleys influenced by rivers, with cadmium posing a lesser-known risk.
Researchers at University of Illinois Chicago developed a method to convert 100% of captured carbon dioxide into ethylene, producing hydrocarbons with high purity. The process uses electrolysis and can recycle almost all carbon dioxide captured, making it carbon negative when powered by renewable energy.
Researchers aim to create crack-resistant, uniform materials with reduced residual stresses and porosity for use in AM. The project will combine the best processing features of existing alloys groups, resulting in lightweight, rigid, and thermally stable components.
Researchers identified 'data architecture' as crucial for successful digital transformation, finding that legacy systems hinder integration and adoption. A coherent data architecture enables firms to automate data processing, integrate large datasets, and develop machine learning models.
A study published in PLOS ONE found that combining blue and green spaces at former industrial canals improves mental well-being. The research, which utilized ecological momentary assessment, revealed the benefits of these environments on boosting mood and promoting relaxation.
A Brazilian research team has developed a novel method to sort specialty and standard coffee beans using multispectral imaging and machine learning. The technique, which does not require roasting or human intervention, uses images of the beans at different wavelengths to distinguish between quality levels.
A team of Japanese researchers used reinforcement learning to study fluid mixing during laminar flow, achieving exponentially fast mixing without prior knowledge. The method also enabled effective transfer learning, reducing training time for new mixing problems, and has potential applications across various industries.
Researchers developed a silicon photodiode array for in-sensor processing, allowing for real-time image filtering and extraction of relevant visual information. The technology has potential applications in machine vision, bio-inspired systems, and intelligent imaging devices.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a pneumatic robotic arm powered by compressed air that can grasp objects and go, using textile-based energy harvesting system. The device is designed for individuals with disabilities and can produce equivalent of 3 watts of power, outperforming other energy harvesting strategies.
A new paper from Concordia University's Next-Generation Cities Institute outlines the challenges and realities of sustainable real estate development. The study identifies key stakeholders and building life-cycle processes to reduce carbon footprint. Cities can use municipal policies and incentives, such as fast-track zoning and densit...
A recent study published in One Earth explores the potential for utilizing urban tree waste to reduce global warming potential in the United States. The researchers found that adopting eco-friendly uses for urban tree waste could significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions in U.S. cities.
Researchers from Kyushu University analyzed global patent applications to identify R&D strategies for sustainable mining technologies. The study found that the Paris Agreement and raw metal price trends influence CCMT development, with varying degrees of impact by country.
A new study by the University of Central Florida reveals that workers in countries with greater income inequality are more likely to perceive robots and artificial intelligence as job threats. This association was found despite the potential benefits of these technologies to improve work and increase flexibility.
A new biological sensor developed by the Hebrew University of Jerusalem has successfully detected hidden rot in potato tubers, one of Israel's chief export industries. The sensor can detect disease before visible symptoms appear, allowing for early identification and prevention of rot and food loss.
NTU Singapore has launched the Algorand Centre of Excellence at NTU (ACE@NTU), a new research and education centre focused on developing and advancing blockchain technologies. The centre aims to become the nexus for blockchain education and research in Singapore and the region.
Researchers developed a lifecycle assessment-based framework to manage offshore oil spill cleanup waste. The study suggests combining centrifugation and landfilling as the most suitable remediation approach for low-impact spills.
Research by University of Texas at Arlington expert Traci Freling shows that the magnitude of negative information effects depends on crisis characteristics and product type. Companies should detect trouble early, diagnose crisis traits, and take swift action to mitigate harm.
Researchers characterize material properties of IP-Q using Raman spectroscopy and nanoindentation, revealing elastic parameters and their effects on acoustic behavior. The study optimizes elastic parameters for TPP-fabricated structures, benefiting applications in life science, mobility, and industry.
Researchers at Aarhus University have developed a new and inexpensive way to recycle polyurethane (PU) plastic by breaking it down into its original components. The method uses a simple chemical reaction involving alcohol, caustic potash, and an autoclave, making it cheaper and more scalable than previous methods.
Associate Professor Angelina Anani has won a $300,000 career development grant from the Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration to support her research on mine planning and operations. She plans to use virtual and augmented reality technologies to optimize industry decisions and minimize risks.
Researchers developed a new enzyme that can degrade poly(ethylene) terephthalate (PET), a common plastic used in bottles. The enzyme, HotPETase, is thermostable and selectively breaks down PET, offering a potential solution to the global plastic waste challenge.
Researchers have developed new methods to prepare state-of-the-art zeolites with nano-sized dimensions and hierarchical structures, critical for industrial applications. The findings emphasize the importance of smaller size and structure in determining performance.
The new Engineering Research Center for Smart Streetscapes (CS3) will advance the future of smart streetscapes with cutting-edge technologies. The center aims to improve quality of life, enhance social equity, and stimulate economic development through innovative smart city solutions.
A new study suggests that members of the public want to know if their health information or samples from their bodies will be used in research or to help develop new biomedical products. The study found that patients are more likely to want notification about research use of their health information than biospecimens.
The €15.7 million AUFRANDE project aims to generate industry-relevant research by employing 64 early career doctoral researchers from French and Australian universities. Researchers will receive training and support, including annual workshops and group events, to foster high-performing early-stage researchers.
A new study published in Applied and Environmental Microbiology suggests that oil formulations with food-grade organic acids can kill dried Salmonella on stainless steel surfaces. This approach has the potential to replace water-based cleaning methods, which promote microbial growth and are often challenging to use.
Researchers at KAUST have found that molybdenum plays a central role in electrochemical hydride transfer, a process for producing valuable chemicals or carbon-free fuels. The discovery could enable more sustainable production of sustainable fuels and chemicals.
The new approach uses a single gantry to print individual or multiple parts simultaneously, increasing printing resolution and size while significantly decreasing printing time. MF3's software optimizes the gantry arm's movement and determines when nozzles should be turned on and off for highest efficiency.
The Madrid Flight On Chip (MFOC) project has successfully implemented advanced technological products and introduced disruptive changes in the design and verification of complex space systems. The project, which ran for over three years, focused on Multi-Processor System on Chip (MPSoC) components and aimed to reduce testing costs.
Researchers at Ural Federal University developed a mathematical model explaining anomalous behavior in melts, which can lead to creating materials with specific properties. The model accounts for nucleation and crystal growth, reducing supercooling and narrowing the two-phase layer.
Researchers at the University of Manchester captured images of single atoms 'swimming' in liquid for the first time, revealing how liquid affects atomic behavior. The discovery could have widespread impact on green technologies like hydrogen production and clean water generation.
The Electrifying Technical Organic Syntheses (ETOS) research network, coordinated by JGU, will be funded from BMBF to support the development of new techniques for organic chemical synthesis using electrolysis. The cluster aims to promote forward-looking innovations and secure technological sovereignty.
A Rutgers researcher contributed to a National Institutes of Health study confirming a link between phthalate exposure and increased risk of preterm birth. The study examined data from 6,045 pregnant women in the U.S., finding that higher concentrations of phthalate metabolites were associated with slightly higher odds of preterm birth.
Researchers from the University of Bath and ETH Zurich found that adopting a 'use case' approach to new technology helps manage hype and unrealistic expectations. Companies should test alternative technologies before implementing, and evolve their business case as those uses are identified.