News on research driving industry and manufacturing. Covers petrochemical emissions, food innovation, controlled-explosion labs, and industry-academic partnerships.
A comprehensive review finds that cruise ships cause major environmental pollution and degradation, as well as physical and mental health risks for passengers, staff, and land-based residents. The study highlights the need for global legislation to minimize damage on both oceans and human health.
A new study from Aston University and New York University found that industrial firms in Beijing did not receive disproportionate economic benefits from hosting the 2008 Summer Olympics. The research suggests that SMEs have limited to no positive impact on the local economy.
Mechanical engineering researchers at Michigan Technological University have created a 3D-printable nanocomposite polymeric ink using carbon nanotubes. The ink's properties, such as electrical conductivity and increased strength, make it suitable for various applications, including aerospace and electronics industries.
A new study by the University of Plymouth found that maritime ropes can release millions of microplastic fragments into the ocean annually. The research estimated that the UK fishing fleet alone could be releasing between 326 million to 17 billion microplastic pieces into the ocean every year.
Researchers at Lancaster University have developed a new method to generate renewable biofuel additives from organic waste using nuclear radiation. This process could help increase the proportion of petrol with renewable content from 5% to 20% by 2030, reducing carbon emissions and tackling climate change.
Researchers developed a computational model to optimize the use of additive manufacturing in spare parts supply chains, finding that centralized systems are more efficient for less frequent demand with high variability. The study's findings provide a step forward in understanding how to incorporate AM technologies into supply chains.
A new study refutes a long-standing explanation for low energy efficiency in lithium-ion batteries, suggesting that voltage hysteresis is caused by reversible electron transfer between oxygen and transition metal atoms. This phenomenon could be mitigated through manipulation of electron transfer barriers.
Researchers found that aging workforces, characterized by a higher ratio of workers 56 and older to those ages 21-55, are associated with increased robot deployment in 60 countries. This study suggests that automation adoption is partly driven by labor shortages, particularly middle-aged labor needed for blue-collar work.
A recent study employs machine learning to guide the design of novel materials for CO2 capture, identifying elemental composition and textural properties as key factors. The research team's findings suggest prioritizing adsorption parameters and surface area optimization for high CO2 adsorption efficiency.
A new indigo dyeing technology reduces water usage by up to 90% and eliminates toxic chemicals, securing over 90% color retention with only one coat. The process also streamlines the industry, saving time and energy for workers.
Researchers developed a mathematical model to predict the angle of repose of sand hills, which is influenced by particle size and gravity. The model was validated using simulations and has potential applications in space exploration, additive manufacturing, and planetary science.
Researchers at OIST and Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology have developed a genetic resource for the kuruma shrimp, a species prone to white spot disease. The genome sequence has identified genes related to disease resistance, which could be used to establish a disease-resistant line of shrimp.
A Korean research team has observed a long-lasting non-equilibrium phase coexistence in supercritical fluids, lasting several hours. The phenomenon is explained by a mass transport model at the phase coexistence interface, where nano-sized clusters facilitate transport.
Lehigh University will lead a five-year, $25 million research collaboration to develop new semiconductor materials and scalable manufacturing processes for advanced optoelectronic devices. The initiative aims to transform fields like information technology with quantum technologies.
Scientists have developed a chemical process that converts hydrogen sulfide, a toxic gas emitted from manure piles and sewer pipes, into hydrogen fuel. The process uses iron sulfide with a trace amount of molybdenum as an additive and requires relatively little energy.
Researchers have discovered a way to use mining waste as part of a potential cheaper catalyst for hydrogen fuel production. The new catalyst triggers water splitting reactions using aluminosilicate minerals found in mining waste, which could lead to lower production costs and increased efficiency.
Researchers at the University of Bath found that large food companies and advertisers opposed Transport for London's 2019 ban, challenging its effectiveness and attempting to undermine policy. The ban was implemented despite commercial opposition, and its success sets a positive precedent for other authorities planning similar bans.
Researchers have created a global database of 63 tailings flows since 1928, revealing catastrophic events occur every two to three years on average. The study highlights the importance of understanding water-to-solids ratios and downstream terrain in preventing mass casualties and environmental damage.
Scientists at the University of Kent have developed a mathematical formula that describes the shape of any bird's egg in nature. The formula is based on four parameters and can be applied across multiple disciplines, including food research, mechanical engineering, and agriculture.
The new MDS-Rely Center aims to produce breakthrough research that benefits the US economy by linking industry innovators, government agency labs, and academic teams. The center will help prepare skilled workers and provide employment opportunities for students and graduates.
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a scalable method to harvest exosomes from unpasteurized cow's milk, enabling the production of purified exosomes for oral drug delivery. The new protocol advances pharmaceutical applications for fragile drugs and opens up a wide range of clinical applications.
The researcher is investigating the inflammatory responses produced by exposure to chemical agents, comparing different chemical exposures at both whole-body and tissue levels. The study aims to develop a common treatment for chemical exposures and diagnose the responsible chemicals.
The Basque Country has significant potential for recovering and reusing industrial waste heat, with Bizkaia province showing the highest concentration. The research found that 90% of companies with waste heat temperatures above 400°C can recover their investment within five years.
A Hebrew University study reveals that as worldwide lead production increases, so do rates of lead absorption in people, leading to toxic effects. The research uses ancient human bones to show the close relationship between lead production and human exposure.
A recent study suggests that personal carbon allowances (PCAs) may be a feasible solution to reduce emissions and promote sustainable lifestyles. The researchers propose a market-based approach to provide individuals with incentives and options to link their actions with global carbon reduction goals.
Researchers at Nagoya City University have detected strongly entangled pair of protons on a nanocrystalline silicon surface. This breakthrough could enable the creation of more qubits and ultra-fast processing for supercomputing applications, revolutionizing quantum computing.
A new PSU study found that remote work can exacerbate workplace incivility due to lack of interpersonal communication. Employees who experience or witness incivility are more likely to engage in uncivil behavior, highlighting the need for organizations to provide support and address incidents seriously.
Hailin Li, a WVU engineer, will lead a project to develop a software platform that simulates heavy-duty diesel engines with advanced after-treatment systems. The goal is to improve engine efficiency and reduce exhaust emissions, which will help cut greenhouse gases and pollutants from the transportation sector.
A new Science article assesses the technological progress of colloidal quantum dots, which have become industrial-grade materials for a range of technologies. Advances include first demonstration of colloidal quantum dot lasing, discovery of carrier multiplication and pioneering research into LEDs and luminescent solar concentrators.
Researchers developed a novel evidence-based material recommender system that predicts high entropy alloy formation without data descriptors, overcomes data bias and poor availability. The method recommends an FeMnCoNi alloy as the most probable HEA and successfully synthesizes it, confirming its validity.
The Center for Adapting Flaws into Features will explore chemical defects to optimize material properties, with a focus on creating better catalysts and electronics. The team aims to develop new approaches towards transformative technologies by leveraging advanced microscopy, spectroscopy, and data science.
The University of Huddersfield's Centre for Precision Technologies will receive £3m funding to drive advancements in machinery design and performance. The project aims to grow the UK's advanced machinery capability to a £2 billion export capacity within ten years, creating over 30,000 high-value manufacturing sector jobs.
Researchers found hybrid electric vehicles have twice the vulnerability to supply chain disruptions as gas-powered models, due to volatile battery prices and scarce materials. Long-term supplier contracts and material substitution can mitigate these risks as manufacturers ramp up EV production.
Scientists at Tokyo University of Science developed a copper-containing polymer that greatly enhances the antibacterial activity of hydrogen peroxide. The use of these tailored polymers resulted in higher catalytic activity and more effective killing of bacteria, opening up new design avenues for antimicrobial drugs.
A recent study found that young workers (21-34 years old) prioritize respectful communication in the workplace over trendy work perks. The researchers believe that leaders and managers can foster supportive cultures by training them on effective communication and recognizing employees' value to their organization.
Scientists develop novel technology to recover multiple metals from various types of industrial waste using carbothermal reduction, reducing costs and enhancing sustainability. The approach also allows mixing different waste streams, enabling processing of large amounts of waste.
The project aims to identify potential environmental costs of deep-sea activities to inform responsible use. It will connect diverse science and policy experts in industry, academia, and private institutes to guide sustainable practices.
A new study from the University of Notre Dame found that over 66% of restaurant employees experience some form of sexual harassment. The research suggests that tipping and requirements for friendly displays create a power imbalance between customers and service workers, leading to increased harassment.
Researchers challenge long-held views on transition dairy cow health, suggesting that common metabolic changes may not be the cause of health problems. The study highlights the need to re-examine methods and conclusions of previous research to develop more effective solutions.
Researchers developed a machine learning model to predict bond characteristics, such as binding energy and Fermi energy, based on individual component parameters. The model achieved accurate predictions across various systems, offering potential benefits for material design and development in fields like catalysis and nano clusters.
Xatkit offers pre-trained bots that can learn from product developments and provide tasks such as recommending products or notifying shops. The technology allows for complex conversations and process management, optimizing customer service costs.
A new study by USC researchers found that emojis represent universal human emotions across countries and continents, while also reflecting cultural differences. The most widely used emojis, such as the heart, were predominantly used in the English-speaking world, Spanish-speaking nations, and Arabic speakers.
Researchers have developed glasses with improved radiation protection characteristics using bismuth borate materials. The new samples show better performance than commercial analogs and could provide a safer alternative to lead-based glasses.
Researchers have identified four main types of SCOBY microorganisms that contribute to kombucha fermentation, allowing brewers to narrow down variables and produce consistent flavors. The study, which used high-throughput DNA sequencing approaches, provides a comprehensive picture of SCOBY microbial community ecology.
A multi-institution team led by University of Arizona is developing clinically validated wearable technologies to remotely monitor patient health, enabling 'care in place' and improving healthcare delivery. The center aims to create devices that can efficiently collect information while ensuring patient data privacy.
The Center for Research toward Advancing Financial Technologies, CRAFT, brings together industry and academic partners to conduct high-impact research in fintech. Initial research areas focus on cybersecurity, blockchain, AI, and machine learning, aiming to drive innovation and address challenges facing the financial services industry.
Researchers at Pohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH) have synthesized two new thermally stable zeolites with improved catalytic activity. PST-32 and PST-2 exhibit higher activity than zeolite Y in producing ethylene and propylene, key raw materials for chemical products.
An international team has discovered a persistent pattern formation dynamics in viscous fingering, a phenomenon relevant to oil recovery and spreading of groundwater. The study's findings show that the pattern is different from classical radial and rectilinear forms.
Scientists from Japan and China have discovered three previously unknown mechanisms of phase transition in soft materials, shedding light on the dynamics of solid-to-solid transformations. This research has diverse applications, including targeted drug delivery and development of new materials with tailored properties.
High-quality nickel oxide films for perovskite solar cells can be created at low temperatures without expensive thermal annealing, enabling large-scale, low-cost manufacturing. The new process achieved power-conversion efficiencies of 17.9% and demonstrated stability over extensive testing.
Researchers created self-propelled nanoswimmers that can escape maze-like environments 20 times faster than passive particles. These tiny synthetic robots have potential applications in cleaning contaminated soil and water, as well as delivering drugs to targeted areas.
Researchers at UPF BMAT and Music Technology Group develop AI algorithm to determine audible music on TV productions, helping distribute copyright fairly and efficiently. The LoudSense project aims to provide an innovative service to the international music industry.
A joint research paper by Professor Sungil Kim and Ph.D. student YongKyung Oh has been commended for excellence in the 2021 IISE Annual Conference. The team developed a real-time anomaly detection model using maritime big data, showcasing a technique to quantify uncertainty in anomaly detection.
Researchers found that consuming sugar kelp inhibits hepatic inflammation and fibrosis, and promotes healthier gut microbiomes, supporting the nutritional benefits of locally-grown seaweed for health and disease prevention
Researchers at McMaster University developed a hand-held rapid test for bacterial infections that can produce accurate results in under an hour. The test distinguishes between treatable and resistant bacteria, helping to combat antimicrobial resistance.
New research suggests subterranean estuaries play a critical role in filtering pollutants from freshwater, supporting large ecosystems. These invisible structures are estimated to supply up to 25% of continental freshwater discharged to certain coastal areas.
A study of UK junior doctors highlights a lack of access to clinical and emotional support, leading to chronic stress and mental health issues. Researchers are calling for a cultural shift towards more supportive leadership and work environments.
A new study by Penn State researchers found that more than 60,000 people were treated for nonfatal agricultural-related injuries in US emergency departments between 2015 and 2019. The majority of injured individuals were youths, with nearly two-thirds being male and approximately 80% white.
Researchers at the University of Waterloo discovered that nanoscale electrocatalysts degrade and lose effectiveness over time due to atomic rearrangement. The study identifies two key reasons for this degradation: surface attachment of small molecules and electromigration.
A new recycling robot will use AI and computer vision to sort recyclable waste, separating soft plastics from other materials. The system aims to drastically increase soft plastic recycling in Australia, diverting millions of tonnes of waste from landfills.