Processing

Graphene foam could be just the prescription for arthritis sufferers

By Faye Oney / July 13, 2018

Researchers showed bioscaffolds out of graphene foam mixed with animal cells could eventually replace cartilage destroyed by osteoarthritis. The military may also use the research to treat musculoskeletal injuries in the field.

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Improving toughness of nanocrystalline ceramics

By Faye Oney / July 10, 2018

Researchers have demonstrated a new toughening mechanism for nanoceramics by studying weak interfaces in nanocrystalline ceramics. Their method could improve impact resistance without compromising functional properties.

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Making higher-performing lithium batteries using ‘pickling’ process

By Faye Oney / June 22, 2018

Researchers discovered that a chemical reaction that takes place when a performance-enhancing additive is mixed into a lithium battery’s electrolyte can suppress its decomposition—similar to the pickling process. This discovery could lead to higher-performing batteries.

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Flash-sintered ceramic material could protect metal blades in aircraft engines

By Faye Oney / June 12, 2018

Researchers have demonstrated that flash sintered yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) acquires metal-like plasticity at room temperature. This discovery could prove to be useful in using YSZ as a thermal barrier coating for aircraft engine blades.

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Vitrification process turns radioactive waste into durable glass for safe disposal

By Faye Oney / June 8, 2018

Researchers have successfully converted radioactive waste into glass through vitrification at the Hanford Nuclear Site. The test is part of an overall plan to send low-activity waste directly to the vitrification facility via Direct Feed Low-Activity Waste system.

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US Department of Energy funds $106 million in new energy projects

By Faye Oney / June 1, 2018

The U.S. Department of Energy recently earmarked approximately $106 million for two new energy projects: High-temperature concentrating solar power technology, and Small business research and development grants.

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Building a better battery: New design weaves together anode, cathode, separator for quicker charges

By Faye Oney / May 25, 2018

Researchers have developed a groundbreaking proof-of-concept battery that interweaves the anode, cathode, and separator in a self-assembling structure. Their work could change the way future batteries are designed for more efficient charging.

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New process makes carbon nanotubes more usable, paves way for future research

By Faye Oney / May 22, 2018

Researchers have discovered a way to process carbon nanotubes using an inexpensive mass-produced solvent to disperse them without using additional chemical reactions. Their breakthrough could pave the way for future carbon nanotube research.

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New simpler recycling process extracts rare-earth magnets from discarded electronics

By Faye Oney / May 11, 2018

Researchers have developed a simple process for extracting rare-earth magnets from discarded electronic devices. Their method reduces manufactured waste and recycles materials into magnets for other uses.

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A workout for your glass—Nanoparticle coating makes glass stronger, boosts impact resistance

By April Gocha / May 11, 2018

A company called MetaShield has developed a simple, spray-on, nanoparticle-based coating—and now independent laboratory testing verifies that the coating significantly enhances the impact resistance of glass.

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