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Light-based tech could inspire Moon navigation and next-gen farming

A team of global experts has developed a new navigation system for lunar rovers using lithium niobate chips, which can detect tiny changes in laser light to measure movement without external signals. This technology also has potential applications on Earth, such as remotely detecting the ripeness of fruit.

SourceRMIT University·JournalScience·TypeSystematic review·DateJan 18, 2023
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Making “transport” robots smarter

University of Missouri engineers are working on a collaborative human-robot order picking system to speed up the online delivery process. The proposed model aims to optimize key decisions in warehouse operations, allowing robots to navigate efficiently and collaborate with humans to increase efficiency.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalInternational Journal of Production Economics·DateNov 29, 2022

Advances in research on surface/interface friction behaviors of the metal cutting process

A systematic review of cutting friction behaviors in the metal cutting process reveals its significant impact on tool wear and surface quality. The study contributes to the development of high-quality cutting technology by understanding cutting friction mechanisms, simulation technologies, and anti-friction strategies.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateNov 28, 2022

NTU Singapore scientists convert waste paper into battery parts for smartphones and electric vehicles

Researchers at Nanyang Technological University have developed a technique to convert waste paper into lithium-ion battery electrodes, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing durability. The new method uses carbonisation and laser cutting to create reusable batteries with superior properties.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2022

Uterine fibroid growth activated by chemicals found in everyday products

Scientists at Northwestern Medicine have discovered a causal link between environmental phthalates and increased uterine fibroid growth. Exposure to certain phthalates, such as DEHP, may activate a hormonal pathway that causes fibroid tumors to grow. This study explains the mechanisms behind this association.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 14, 2022
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.

A 5G-enabled AI-based malware classification system for the next generation of cybersecurity

A novel AI-based malware detection and classification system has been developed for 5G-enabled Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) systems. The system achieved an accuracy rate of 97% on benchmark datasets, enabling the secure connection of applications such as smart cities and autonomous vehicles.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalIEEE Transactions on Industrial Informatics·TypeSystematic review·DateNov 8, 2022

NYU Tandon researchers explore a more frictionless future

Elisa Riedo's team has discovered a fundamental friction law, leading to the design of two-dimensional materials capable of minimizing energy loss. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient manufacturing processes, greener vehicles, and a sustainable world.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 3, 2022

Tracking trust in human-robot work interactions

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.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalApplied Ergonomics·DateNov 1, 2022

Rice lab advances water-splitting catalysts

Engineers at Rice University have discovered a method to make oxygen evolution catalysis in acids more economical and practical. They replaced rare and expensive iridium with ruthenium, a far more abundant precious metal, as the positive-electrode catalyst in a reactor that splits water into hydrogen and oxygen.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2022

Current FDA oversight of vaping industry likely to have minimal impact

The FDA's warning letters issued in 2020 and 2021 revealed that the regulator is failing to target leading tobacco companies and products most popular among young people. Over 90% of warnings were sent to small online retailers, while flavoured refillable e-cigarette liquids accounted for over 90% of the products cited.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalTobacco Control·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 13, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

£1.2m grant to revolutionise product design and manufacturing

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.

SourceOxford Brookes University·DateSep 5, 2022

Sulfur shortage: a potential resource crisis looming as the world decarbonises

A projected shortage of sulfuric acid could stifle green technology advancement and threaten global food security. Researchers estimate a shortfall in annual supply between 100-320 million tonnes by 2040, depending on decarbonisation pace. Developing low-cost methods to extract elemental sulfur is crucial to mitigate the crisis.

SourceUniversity College London·JournalGeographical Journal·DateAug 21, 2022

A simpler path to supercharge robotic systems

Bhattacharya's project uses topological abstraction to reduce complexity in robotic systems, enabling more efficient and accurate motion planning. The approach has potential applications in industries such as transportation, manufacturing, and healthcare.

SourceLehigh University·DateAug 18, 2022

Overcoming a major manufacturing constraint

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.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateAug 12, 2022

Water can’t touch this sanded, powdered surface

Rice University researchers create a technique to make surfaces superhydrophobic by combining sanding with powder materials, resulting in water-repelling properties. The treatment also exhibits excellent anti-icing properties, slowing down freezing and reducing ice adhesion strength.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 4, 2022
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.

CREATE CARES and NTU Singapore’s NTUitive launch the Accelerated, Manufacturing Platform for Engineered Nanomaterials (AMPLE)

The CREATE CARES and NTUitive initiative aims to accelerate the development of nanomaterials for various industries, reducing experimental workload and improving quality. The Accelerated Manufacturing Platform for Engineered Nanomaterials (AMPLE) project will utilize Industry 4.0 practices to scale up nanotechnology production.

SourceNanyang Technological University·DateJul 13, 2022

Low temperature nanoparticle ink

Researchers developed a simple and versatile nanoparticle ink made from tin oxide, which can be printed at relatively low temperatures using microwave technology. This ink enables the mass production of high-efficiency perovskite solar cells with power-conversion efficiencies of up to 18%.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science·JournalChemistry of Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 5, 2022
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.

UBCO researchers change the game when it comes to activity tracking

Researchers at UBC Okanagan have created wearable human motion devices that can track a multitude of activities, including breathing and muscle contractions. The devices use a two-dimensional inorganic nanomaterial called MXene alongside a conductive polymer for electromagnetic interference shielding.

SourceUniversity of British Columbia Okanagan campus·JournalCarbon·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJun 16, 2022

SwRI study examines oxide growth in additively manufactured metals in sCO2 environment

A new joint study by Southwest Research Institute and Sandia National Laboratories examines the effects of supercritical carbon dioxide (sCO2) on oxide film growth on additively manufactured metals and wrought stainless steel. The study found that both types of metals showed oxide growth, but with significant differences in grain size ...

SourceSouthwest Research Institute·JournalCorrosion Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 2022

Higher socioeconomic status linked to increased air pollution exposure in China

A University of Washington-led team found that people in China with higher socioeconomic status are more exposed to outdoor air pollution. The study discovered a unique correlation between socioeconomic status and ambient air pollution levels, which runs counter to existing studies conducted in the US.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalEnvironmental Health Perspectives·DateJun 8, 2022

Scientists make plastic more degradable under UV light

Researchers at the University of Bath developed a way to make PLA plastics more degradable in natural environments by incorporating sugar molecules. This technology can degrade 40% of the plastic within six hours of exposure to UV light, making it compatible with existing manufacturing processes.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalChemical Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 24, 2022
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.

Tangle no more, nanotubes

Researchers develop less-corrosive solutions using methanesulfonic acid, p-toluenesulfonic acid and oleum acids to separate and process nanotubes. The new method enables scalable production of advanced materials with excellent electrical and mechanical properties.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 27, 2022
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.

An alternative low-cost technique to produce metal powders for 3D printing

A team of researchers at Indian Institute of Science has identified an alternative technique to produce metal powders for 3D printing, side-stepping the problems with atomisation. The new method uses surface grinding to create spherical powders with comparable quality to commercial gas atomised powders.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalManufacturing Letters·DateApr 6, 2022

Avoiding commoditisation trap: Lithuanian researchers' insights into companies’ success

Modern manufacturing companies can avoid commoditisation by complementing products with services that offer additional value. Digitalisation enables companies to develop intelligence, connection, and analytic capabilities, making it time for customer support service innovation. By doing so, companies like ADAX have successfully differe...

SourceKaunas University of Technology·JournalJournal of Business and Industrial Marketing·TypeSystematic review·DateMar 23, 2022

Bacteria-shredding insect wings inspire new antibacterial packaging

Scientists developed a natural antibacterial texture inspired by insect wings, killing up to 70% of bacteria. The innovation aims to reduce food waste, particularly in meat and dairy exports, and extend the shelf life of packaged food.

SourceRMIT University·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·TypeObservational study·DateMar 21, 2022
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Developing design tools for outer space structures

Developing a design tool for tailorable composites will benefit NASA and industries by shortening the design period and improving structural properties. The tool, created with Purdue-affiliated company AnalySwift, has applications in aerospace, energy, wind, automotive, marine, and other industries.

SourcePurdue University·DateMar 16, 2022

Reducing carbon emissions of C&D waste in building refurbishment

Researchers from Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University provide valuable insights on managing C&D waste and reducing carbon emissions in building refurbishment projects. By upcycling generated waste, carbon emissions can be significantly reduced, with a potential reduction of around 40% compared to traditional practices.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalEnvironmental Science and Pollution Research·TypeCase study·DateFeb 23, 2022

The surprising structural reason your kitchen sponge is disgusting

Researchers found that kitchen sponges provide an optimal environment for microbial diversity by mimicking the separation and communal spaces found in healthy soil. This complex structure supports both solitary and diverse bacterial communities, leading to higher biodiversity levels.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Chemical Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Mass customization can make fashion more sustainable if customers are willing to wait for it

A new study suggests that mass customization can generate higher profits and reduce environmental waste considerably when overproduction is a problem. Customers willing to wait for bespoke clothing can make the fashion industry more environmentally sustainable.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalManufacturing & Service Operations Management·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 1, 2022

The chemical outlook for 2022

The global chemical industry aims to recover from the pandemic while addressing consumer demand for sustainable products. Investments in carbon capture and clean technology will continue to rise, while companies rethink packaging and manufacturing methods to reduce waste.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateJan 20, 2022

Sustainable manufacturing

The collaboration seeks to co-develop an efficient CO2 electrolyzer that can produce ethylene, a widely used chemical building block. Yushan Yan at UD will focus on making polymer membrane materials chemical resistant and strong for long-term durability.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·DateJan 11, 2022

Ultra Safe Nuclear licenses ORNL method to 3D print advanced reactor components

The Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory has developed a novel method for 3D printing refractory materials into complex shapes needed for advanced nuclear reactor designs. USNC plans to incorporate this technology to boost their mission to develop safe, commercially competitive, and simple nuclear energy equipment.

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2022

Combined heat and power as a platform for clean energy systems

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.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalApplied Energy·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateDec 2, 2021
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Engineers invent ultra-fast manufacturing technology, eliminating need for polymer binders

Researchers at the University of South Florida have invented a new technology that enables the rapid printing of wearable and electronic sensors without the need for polymer binders. This breakthrough can significantly reduce production time, making it suitable for applications such as health monitoring, prosthetics, and robotics.

SourceUniversity of South Florida·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 1, 2021

Ensuring accuracy in 3D-printed jet engine parts

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.

SourceUniversity of Arizona College of Engineering·DateNov 1, 2021

Four reasons why businesses won't adopt reusable packaging – and one way to address them all

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...

SourceLancaster University·JournalSustainable Production and Consumption·TypeObservational study·DateNov 1, 2021

Industry must prepare now for a new world of green electricity

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.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalCurrent Opinion in Environmental Sustainability·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateOct 27, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Mining shift workers at significant risk of sleep loss and sleep disorders

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.

SourceEdith Cowan University·JournalApplied Ergonomics·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 2021

SMART researchers discover new way to generate light through use of pre-existing defects in semiconductor materials

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.

SourceSingapore-MIT Alliance for Research and Technology (SMART)·JournalACS Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2021

Welcoming composite inks into the fold

A new composite ink composed of ceramic particles in polymer acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) has been developed to make foldable electronics easier and cheaper to manufacture. The ink enables the creation of flexible, large-area dielectric substrates suitable for millimeter-wave devices, including 5G antennas.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021

University of South Carolina researcher to advance smart manufacturing with help from National Science Foundation

A new $3.8 million NSF EPSCoR RII Track-2 grant will enable the expansion of Future Factories Lab at the UofSC McNair Aerospace Center, investigating interactions between humans and automation in manufacturing facilities. The project aims to create a manufacturing resilience ecosystem with significant workforce development opportunities.

SourceUniversity of South Carolina·DateSep 23, 2021
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.

Tiny porous crystals change the shape of water to speed up chemical reactions

Researchers at the University of Illinois discovered that tiny porous crystals called zeolites can speed up chemical reactions by changing the shape of water molecules. This approach could lead to more sustainable and environmentally friendly industrial processes.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Catalysis·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2021

Researchers find eco-friendly way to dye blue jeans

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.

SourceUniversity of Georgia·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateSep 14, 2021

Scientists develop films with tunable elongation and fracture for various uses

Researchers from Nagoya Institute of Technology synthesized elastic polymer films with versatile elongation and fracture properties using photo-modulus patterning. The films' Young's modulus can be controlled by post-preparation photo reaction, making them suitable for diverse applications.

SourceNagoya Institute of Technology·JournalPolymer·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Study examines how vital new air routes are for organ transplants

A recent study found that introducing new airline routes leads to a 7.3% increase in kidneys sent to transplant centers across the US, while also reducing the discard rate of kidneys. This improved transportation infrastructure facilitates broader organ sharing and can help match supply and demand.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalManagement Science·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 23, 2021

£3 million grant to advance machinery design and performance

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.

SourceUniversity of Huddersfield·DateJul 28, 2021
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.

Smart AI makes all kinds of shapes on its own

A research team developed an AI system that recommends process conditions for plastic injection molding, enabling the creation of various shapes in real-time. The system achieved an average relative error of 0.66% and can be used by non-experts to produce uniform results.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·DateAug 18, 2020