News on research driving industry and manufacturing. Covers petrochemical emissions, food innovation, controlled-explosion labs, and industry-academic partnerships.
Researchers at Skoltech developed an algorithm that aggregates and maps environmental data to predict and visually map the quality of water, soil, or air. The solution uses interpolation to fill gaps in data and produces detailed maps with high resolution.
A study by Yale University found that electric vehicles provide lower carbon emissions due to indirect emissions from the supply chain of fossil fuel-powered vehicles. The study suggests that pricing indirect emissions can accelerate the low-carbon transition of the US light vehicle sector.
Aston University's Aston Institute of Photonic Technologies has received a £100,000 grant to support its research in food and agri-tech. The new equipment will enable the development of cost-effective photonic technology for quality control in food processing and manufacturing.
Scientists have made a breakthrough in controlling the formation of vacancies in silicon carbide, a semiconductor material. The team's simulations tracked the pairing of individual vacancies into a divacancy and discovered the optimal temperatures for creating stable divacancies. This discovery could lead to highly sensitive sensors an...
Researchers from Japan have developed a new method to synthesize a pure Si-CHA membrane showing much higher CO2 separation performance than existing membranes. The key to this achievement is using a porous silica substrate instead of alumina, eliminating problems with pore size reduction and improving efficiency.
A team of UBC Okanagan researchers has developed a system to enhance interactions between humans and robots in industrial settings. The system uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to capture and analyze the environment, allowing robots to respond in a timely manner to ensure human safety.
Researchers at Aarhus University have developed a simple analytical model to predict chip formation and optimize surface finish in manufacturing processes. The study reveals the critical cutting depth for almost every material, tool geometry, and running conditions, minimizing tool wear and improving product quality.
A new database has been launched to systematically record findings on perovskite semiconductors, featuring over 42,000 individual data sets and analysis tools for interactive exploration. The FAIR principles guide the preparation of the data, enabling easy searching with modern algorithms and artificial intelligence.
Researchers propose new ways to protect 3D printed objects from stealthy logic bombs, which can cause catastrophic failures. Two strategies are proposed: designing a sensor to detect changes in raw materials or using high-resolution CT images to detect residual stresses.
The ATIQ project aims to develop reliable, user-friendly quantum computing demonstrators based on ion trap technology within 30 months. The consortium will optimize hardware for applications in chemistry and finance, paving the way for new approaches in credit risk assessment.
A new AI algorithm, APOLLO, accurately predicts microprocessor power consumption by analyzing just 100 signals out of millions, offering potential to improve efficiency and develop new processors. The technique has been validated on high-performance microprocessors and could help designers inform future chip design.
New research from UniSA finds that confusion, lack of knowledge and disinterest are hindering businesses' progress in addressing modern slavery. The study provides a framework to help companies improve their approaches, but warns that without effective measures, global efforts to stop modern slavery will be unlikely to succeed.
A collaborative research study found Cryptosporidium prevalence to be 20-25% across Belgium, France, and the Netherlands, posing a serious threat to dairy cattle and human life. The parasite is concerning due to its ability to become infectious in chlorine, increasing the risk of infection through traditional methods.
The state of Georgia could dramatically reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by using onsite electric power, creating new jobs and a healthier public. CHP systems can be 85-90% efficient, reducing peak demand on the grid and providing ultra-high system efficiencies, cleaner air, and more affordable energy.
Researchers aim to develop AI agents that reuse information, adapt quickly to new conditions and collaborate by sharing experiences. The goal is to enable machines to continually learn from their collective experiences and improve performance on novel and previous tasks.
A new study by Vanderbilt University has developed Exo-LiFFT, an interactive calculator that helps companies reduce injury risk from work-related musculoskeletal disorders. The tool projects a 20-60% reduction in workplace back injuries for material handling tasks.
The Wallenberg Initiative Material Science for Sustainability aims to create new, vital knowledge and expertise in functional materials. The programme will focus on advancing the limits of knowledge in materials science to promote sustainable technologies and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers at West Virginia University have developed a wood boiler system that improves bird health and reduces carbon dioxide emissions by drying litter and creating dry heat. The system has the potential to replace propane heating systems in poultry farms, benefiting both animal welfare and the environment.
Researchers at University of South Australia are developing a world-first product to design traffic lights that absorb kinetic energy, stopping them from crumpling when hit by a vehicle. The technology has the potential to reduce road safety-related costs and injuries worldwide.
Researchers from UC Riverside developed a revolutionary imaging technology that compresses light into a nanometer-sized spot, allowing for unprecedented 6-nanometer color imaging of nanomaterials. This advance improves the study of unique properties and potential applications in electronics and other fields.
Researchers have developed a new pressure sensor that can be stretched up to 50% while maintaining its sensing performance, enabling advanced robotics and prosthetic applications. The sensor is sensitive enough to detect the pressure of small objects and responds rapidly to changes in pressure.
A combined experimental and computational study published in Nature Catalysis introduces a new class of complex metal hydride catalysts that can synthesise ammonia at temperatures as low as 300°C and pressures as low as 1 bar. These catalysts have the potential to pave the way for more sustainable means of ammonia production.
A comprehensive assessment of polyurethane in the US reveals complexities that affect its recovery and recycling. The study highlights opportunities to enhance circularity and increase bio-based content of polyurethanes.
A new study of 25 years of recalls at publicly traded companies found that newly tenured CEOs are more likely to announce a product safety recall. The study also reveals that once CEOs have been in their role for about three years, they are more likely to allow recalls to go unannounced.
Researchers tracked methane emissions from the region's 10,000 oil and gas wells, finding that they fell by half between 2015 and 2020. Despite this decline, methane leaks remained high, accounting for about six to eight percent of produced natural gas.
The 74th APS Division of Fluid Dynamics Annual Meeting featured presentations on COVID-proofing daily life, kimchi physics, and extreme heat waves. Researchers also discussed advancements in fire-fighting trees and the science behind jellyfish engineers.
A new coating developed by researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago uses thermoresponsive properties to create a hygroscopic slippery layer that prevents harmful substances from coming into contact with surfaces. This technology delays ice and frost formation, outperforming commercial products by up to ten times.
The University of Huddersfield's Institute of Railway Research has won a prestigious prize from the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) for its 'Low Adhesion Braking Dynamic Optimisation for Rolling Stock' (LABRADOR) simulation tool. This tool allows for the study of specific brake control features and prediction of train brak...
The study found that applying an electrical potential can stabilize high-temperature superconducting superhydrides at much lower pressures than previously thought. This new method could lead to the creation of new materials with broad applications in consumer and industrial sectors.
Researchers from NTU Singapore found significant increases in pollutant emissions at major international seaports during the COVID-19 pandemic. Emissions rose by over 100% in some ports, with container ships and dry bulk carriers experiencing the largest spikes.
A team of Korean researchers has successfully extracted high-quality magnesium sulphate, without calcium impurities, from seawater desalination brine using a novel ethanol-based process. The process achieved up to 67% magnesium recovery efficiency and has potential applications in the pharmaceutical and food industry.
Researchers at Rice University are creating a 3D-printed smart helmet with embedded sensors to protect soldiers' brains against kinetic or directed-energy effects. The program aims to modernize standard-issue military helmets by incorporating advances in materials, image processing, artificial intelligence, and energy storage.
The 'Rolling Fingers' robotic hand can move objects in a single grasp without needing two arms, simplifying tasks for robots. Its adaptive fingers and rotating skin enable safe manipulation of non-rigid objects, making it suitable for industrial and clinical applications.
Paxlovid demonstrates significant efficacy against SARS-CoV-2 virus, reducing hospitalization and death risks in adult patients by up to 89%. The treatment's development involved cutting-edge X-ray technology from the Advanced Photon Source.
Researchers at the University of Illinois created a novel device using microscopic fluorescent diamonds to calibrate sensitive microscopy systems. The nanodiamonds' stability and longevity make them ideal as a 'first-aid kit' for microscopes, allowing for easy reuse and quality control.
The CryForm project aims to replace synthetic stabilizing agents with crystalline materials, enabling innovative multiphase formulations for safer, more sustainable and affordable products. The project will develop biocompatible crystals for pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food applications, contributing to the European Green Deal.
Researchers have created two novel heat recovery systems for LNG ships, boosting energy efficiency by up to 25%. The systems use the organic Rankine cycle (ORC) to recover heat from engine exhaust gas, with substantial improvements in performance depending on fluid combinations.
The green transition is already underway, with countries facing unique risks and opportunities based on their degree of competitiveness in fossil fuel markets. Diversifying economies towards low-carbon exports can mitigate negative impacts, while supporting innovation and job creation are key to maintaining long-term competitiveness.
A study published by The BMJ found an extensive network of financial and non-financial ties between the medical product industry and all major healthcare parties and activities. Researchers are urging enhanced oversight and transparency to protect patients from commercial influence, citing the need for better conflict of interest polic...
Researchers at Washington University in St. Louis have developed a way to train microbes to produce a readily usable biofuel from CO2, solar panel-generated electricity and light. The resulting n-butanol is an authentically carbon-neutral fuel alternative that can be used in blends with diesel or gasoline.
The University of Central Florida has received a $1.5 million U.S. Department of Defense award to develop high-performance fuels for hypersonic propulsion. The project aims to create new solid fuels that can provide wider flammability limits and longer range while constraining volume.
A new study by Lancaster University identifies four major concerns that hinder the adoption of reusable packaging: affordability, digitalization challenges, regulatory hurdles, and data collection limitations. To address these concerns, researchers propose implementing a track and trace system using unique barcodes to enable businesses...
A team of engineers at the University of Arizona is using machine learning methods to monitor and mitigate defects in additive manufactured metal parts designed for use in extreme environments. The system combines data processing, process optimization, materials analysis, and machine learning to predict defects.
A new study from Edith Cowan University identifies four pathways regularly associated with Western Australian mining deaths, including design flaws and poor management. The research recommends that companies prioritize these pathways to reduce workplace fatalities and improve worker safety.
A study of 75 FIFO shift workers found significant sleep loss and reduced alertness, with up to 60% at risk of developing sleep disorders. The research highlights the need for companies to reassess roster designs to ensure adequate rest and provide education on good sleep health practices.
The University of Leeds research highlights the need for industry to adopt new technologies that can manufacture materials using renewable electricity. This is crucial to achieving net zero emissions targets by 2050, as current steel and aluminium manufacturing capacities pose a significant barrier to this goal.
A Harvard University study estimates Americans perform about 30 minutes less moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily compared to 200 years ago. The decline is attributed to technology, with researchers using historical body temperature records as a 'thermometer' of population-level physical activity.
SMART researchers have discovered a practical method to overcome current challenges in the manufacture of indium gallium nitride (InGaN) LEDs with considerably higher indium concentration. The new approach uses intrinsic defects in semiconducting materials to form quantum dots that emit long-wavelength light.
A new study revealed that global guidance for preventing Surgical Site Infections (SSI) is not effective and needs revision. The FALCON trial found no superiority of interventions like alcoholic chlorhexidine skin preparation and triclosan coated sutures over lower-cost alternatives.
Researchers from Oak Ridge National Laboratory have developed innovative technologies in self-healing sealants, precision deicers and quantum-enabled grid security. These breakthroughs aim to improve construction materials, reduce waste in road maintenance and enhance power grid protection.
Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have discovered a new path forward for processing titanium. Cryo-forging at ultra-low temperatures produces extra-strong nanotwinned titanium with improved strength and ductility. The material maintains its structure and properties at extreme temperatures, demonstrating its versatility.
A research team at Iowa State University aims to create more robust microbes that can produce heat- and acid-resistant enzymes, improving the bioproduction of fuels and chemicals. The goal is to make industrial fermentation more efficient and cost-effective.
Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science has been awarded a $2 million matching grant to develop and open state-of-the-art wet lab space for collaboration with industry partners. The funding will also benefit Lake County communities by attracting biotech companies and creating new jobs, internships, and training programs.
Researchers developed an integrated framework combining single-cell and metagenomics to characterize microbes. The approach showed higher accuracy and precise binning, revealing more bacterial genera and intra-species diversity.
The Danish NMR Center is part of the PANACEA consortium, enabling European researchers to access state-of-the-art solid-state NMR equipment. The project will provide trans-national access to over 30 unique NMR spectrometers and develop new web-based software tools for simplified analysis.
Functionalized metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) show improved hydrogen interaction, increasing storage capabilities by 15-80%. The study uses machine learning to predict binding energy and reduce computationally heavy calculations.
A new method developed by Penn State and LLNL demonstrates a promising way to extract and separate rare earth elements from low-grade sources. The protein-based approach separates metals with greater than 99% purity, offering a more efficient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional methods.
Shear thickening occurs when particles in a low-viscosity solution behave like a solid under stress. Researchers at North Carolina State University captured microscopic images of particles as they underwent shear thickening, revealing complex networks formed between particles and their shapes dependent on particle roughness.
The COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated plastic pollution, with global waste generation increasing by twice the amount in 2020 compared to 2019. To address this issue, researchers advocate for a transition to novel sustainable practices and technologies, including biodegradable plastics and efficient recycling processes.
Researchers at Aalto University have developed a non-toxic alternative to traditional cyanide-based gold extraction processes. The new chloride-based method, called EDRR, achieves an impressive 84% gold recovery rate, surpassing the 64% recovered with traditional cyanide methods.