Archaeologists have repeatedly shown that dairy products were an essential part of late Stone Age diets despite virtually all Neolithic Europeans being lactose intolerant. University of York researchers led a study that suggests early farmers used dairy products from multiple different animals and reduced the lactose content in milk by making it into cheese.
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Though the tradition of creating grand stained-glass windows is less common than it was before, the art form remains an important part of our culture today. In April 2024, CTT is running a special three-part series on stained glass. Part 1 overviews the techniques used to create stained glass.
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With Ukrainian clay in short supply and high demand, tile manufacturers are considering reformulating their tiles based on clay in local deposits. Researchers in Italy conducted a comprehensive characterization of two iron-rich Italian clays to determine their suitability for porcelain stoneware production.
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Finnish startup Polar Night Energy, which developed and installed its first commercial-scale “sand battery” energy storage system in 2022, is now collaborating with Finnish district heating company Loviisan Lämpö to build an industrial-scale sand battery system in Pornainen, Finland.
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Since 1989, the Brick Industry Association has sponsored the Brick in Architecture Awards to recognize exceptional uses of clay brick in architecture. The 44 global winners for the 2023 awards include entries spanning the United States, Canada, China, and Mexico, plus the first-ever winner in Russia.
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In response to global supply chain disruptions, many governments are implementing new programs to ensure continued and secure access to critical resources. Learn about some recent programs that were announced in the past few months.
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The world is facing a fundamental sustainability crisis. Scientists have a role to play in not only developing new materials and technologies to combat the crisis but also in communicating about the situation to the public. Several ACerS members have made significant strides in this regard with the release of a new paper and helping to establish a new international alliance.
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Glass ornaments have played a central role in holiday decorations for almost two centuries. Learn about this history and where to find glass ornaments for this year’s winter celebrations.
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The October/November 2023 issue of the ACerS Bulletin—featuring an overview of research and markets in Germany—is now available online. Plus—inside the nascent market for lead-free and textured piezoceramics.
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Many cultures have symbols or rituals that are widely viewed as lucky within that society. The maneki-neko, or Japanese “beckoning cat,” is one cultural symbol that has grown to be recognized almost universally as a figure of good luck. Learn about the history of maneki-neko and how to make one for yourself.
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