materials

In the pursuit of more eco-friendly production methods,&nbsp;bioplastics have emerged as a promising alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics. Derived from biological sources—such as cornstarch or sugarcane—and often designed for biodegradability, these innovative materials offer an avenue to reduce carbon footprints without sacrificing performance. As companies strive to reduce their carbon footprint and align with consumer demands for sustainability, bioplastics have gained traction in various industries—from packaging and consumer goods to automotive components and electronics housings.Despite their potential, the transition from traditional plastics to bioplastics requires careful planning. Manufacturers must balance the environmental advantages against factors like cost, production scalability, and consistent material performance.<h2>Understanding Bioplastics</h2>Bioplastics encompass a range of materials made wholly or partially from biological sources—such as cornstarch, sugarcane, or other plant-based derivatives. They can be categorized primarily into:<ul><li>Bio-based Plastics: Derived from renewable sources (e.g., polylactic acid/PLA or polyhydroxyalkanoates/PHAs).</li><li>Biodegradable Plastics: Designed to break down more readily under specific conditions, although the exact biodegradation pathways vary by resin.</li></ul>In sustainable product development, the choice of bioplastic hinges on the application. Each material carries distinct mechanical properties, heat resistance levels, and degradation profiles, which can influence end-product functionality.<h2>Why Choose Bioplastics?</h2><ol><li>Lower Carbon Footprint Bioplastics can significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions when compared to conventional plastics, particularly if they’re sourced from renewable feedstocks and produced using clean energy.</li><li>Reduced Dependence on Fossil Fuels By shifting to agricultural or plant-based inputs, manufacturers can hedge against fluctuating petroleum prices and move closer to a circular economy model.</li><li>Expanding Performance Properties While early bioplastic formulations often had limited mechanical properties, ongoing research has led to improved heat resistance, impact strength, and flexibility—expanding their range of potential applications.</li></ol><h2>Bioplastic Injection Molding</h2>One of the key manufacturing processes for parts made with bioplastics is&nbsp;injection molding. This process involves heating the bioplastic resin to its melting point and injecting it into a mold cavity to form the desired shape. While the steps resemble those used with standard plastics, there are unique considerations:<ol><li>Material Behavior Bioplastics can have narrower processing windows. For example, some degrade if subjected to high temperatures for too long, making precise temperature control crucial.</li><li>Cycle Times Heat profiles and cooling times may differ from typical petrochemical plastics. Manufacturers often need to fine-tune cycle parameters for consistent part quality.</li><li>Equipment Modifications In some cases, injection molding machines may require specialized screws, barrel configurations, or drying systems to handle the unique flow characteristics of certain bioplastics.</li></ol><h2>Challenges in Moldmaking for Biodegradable Materials</h2>While bioplastics present exciting opportunities for greener production, they also pose challenges for traditional moldmaking approaches:<ul><li>Thermal Sensitivity: Biodegradable resins can degrade if exposed to excessive temperatures or held at elevated temperatures for too long. Moldmakers must design heating and cooling systems that manage precise temperature zones throughout the mold cavity.</li><li>Tool Wear &amp; Maintenance: Some bioplastic formulations can be more abrasive or prone to sticking. Mold surfaces, gating designs, and ejection mechanisms may need special surface treatments or coatings. Others may stick more readily to the mold surface, increasing ejection complexity.</li><li>Flow Characteristics: Variations in melt viscosity require mold flow analyses that differ from standard plastic injection. Moldmakers often consult material suppliers early in the design phase to ensure the mold accommodates these unique flow traits.</li></ul>By collaborating closely with material scientists, mold designers can engineer tooling that minimizes risks like degradation or warpage, helping manufacturers consistently produce high-quality, biodegradable parts.<h3>Looking Ahead</h3>Successful integration of bioplastics hinges on addressing both technical and economic considerations. Collaboration among product designers, materials scientists, and moldmakers is key to:<ul><li>Optimizing Formulations: Continual R&amp;D efforts to improve bioplastic blends for enhanced strength, heat resistance, and processability.</li><li>Refining Equipment: Injection molding machines that are capable of tighter thermal control and specialized screw geometries to handle sensitive biodegradable resins.</li><li>Educating Stakeholders: Training engineers, moldmakers, and production teams on best practices for processing and tooling design.</li></ul>Over time, as more organizations adopt bioplastics and manufacturers refine these processes, economies of scale may further improve the cost-competitiveness of eco-friendly resins. The continued push for sustainability—both at the consumer and regulatory levels—suggests that bioplastics will remain a growing segment in the broader plastics industry.

In the pursuit of more eco-friendly production methods, bioplastics have emerged as a promising alternative to traditional petroleum-based plastics. 

Paving the Way for Greener Manufacturing with Bioplastics

In the dynamic world of manufacturing, small batch injection molding is a game-changer. It's a process that's redefining how we produce plastic parts.This method is all about flexibility and cost-effectiveness. It's ideal for startups and small businesses, reducing the initial investment required for production.But it's not just about cost. Small batch injection molding also offers the ability to test and validate product designs before mass production. This reduces financial risk and allows for quick market entry with new or updated products.Moreover, it aligns with&nbsp;<a href="https://apsx.com/sustainability" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">sustainable&nbsp;</a>practices. By producing only what is needed, waste is minimized. This is a significant step towards a more sustainable manufacturing sector.<h2>Understanding Small Batch Injection Molding</h2>Small batch injection molding is an innovative approach tailored for producing limited quantities of parts. It is especially useful when production flexibility is needed.Unlike traditional methods, this process is highly adaptable and efficient. It caters to businesses that do not require large production volumes. This makes it suitable for specialized markets and niche products.Another key feature is its time-to-market advantage. Businesses can quickly test and iterate designs, ensuring the product meets customer needs.Ultimately, small batch injection molding supports a more responsive and&nbsp;<a href="https://apsx.com/smart-production" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">smart production</a> environment.<h3>Definition and Distinction from High-Volume Molding</h3>Small batch injection molding focuses on producing parts in smaller quantities. This contrasts with high-volume injection molding, which targets mass production.The primary distinction lies in flexibility. High-volume methods prioritize quantity, whereas small batch molding emphasizes adaptability.Small batch processes are cost-effective with lower setup costs. High-volume setups require significant investment for extensive production runs.This makes small batch injection molding ideal for testing new products without substantial financial risk.<h3>The Role of Small Batch Molding in Prototyping and Design</h3>Small batch injection molding is invaluable in prototyping. It allows designers to test and refine product designs efficiently.The prototyping phase benefits from small batch runs. Designers can experiment with various materials and designs.This iterative process ensures optimal product performance and functionality. Feedback can be quickly implemented, speeding up development cycles.Moreover, small batch molding bridges the gap between concept and mass production, fostering innovation and accuracy.<h2>Cost-Effectiveness and Financial Benefits</h2>Small batch injection molding offers significant cost advantages. It enables the production of parts with minimal upfront expenses.By using small batches, businesses can reduce the financial burden. They avoid the costs associated with large production runs.This method is particularly appealing to companies watching their spending. It supports a lean approach to manufacturing.Moreover, small batch processes minimize waste. This further enhances their cost efficiency.<h3>Lower Initial Investment for Startups</h3>For startups, managing budget constraints is crucial. Small batch injection molding reduces initial investment requirements.This is due to the lower tooling and setup costs. Unlike traditional methods, there is no need for large production commitments.It allows startups to allocate resources more effectively. Focus can remain on product development and marketing.This agile approach gives startups the flexibility to adapt and grow. It fosters innovation without excessive financial risk.<h3>Reducing Inventory and Storage Costs</h3>Small batch production significantly cuts inventory and storage expenses. Producing only what is needed decreases the need for storage space.This method reduces the overhead associated with holding large volumes of parts. Businesses can manage their supply chain more efficiently.By avoiding overproduction, unnecessary costs related to warehousing diminish. Smaller batches also facilitate a faster response to market changes.Ultimately, these savings contribute to a healthier bottom line. The business can reinvest these funds into growth and innovation.<h2>Enhancing Flexibility and Speed to Market</h2>Small batch injection molding greatly enhances flexibility. It allows for quick adjustments in production. This agility is crucial in today's fast-paced market. Responding swiftly to consumer demands is a competitive advantage.Moreover, businesses benefit from faster market entry. This process supports rapid development cycles and faster product releases. It helps businesses seize new opportunities promptly. Speed is a vital component of staying competitive.Flexibility also means&nbsp;<a href="https://apsx.com/apsx-machines-compact" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">accommodating varying design changes</a>. This is beneficial for testing new iterations without hefty investment. Adapting to changes in product specifications becomes seamless and efficient.Ultimately, enhancing flexibility leads to better alignment with market trends. Companies can pivot swiftly as conditions change. This aligns manufacturing with strategic objectives.<h3>Quick Turnaround Times and Market Entry</h3>Small batch injection molding facilitates quick production cycles. This enables products to reach the market faster. Businesses can quickly test and launch new items.A faster turnaround time reduces the time-to-market significantly. It keeps companies competitive and responsive. Products can be refined based on early feedback.Accelerated entry into the market can maximize returns. Being first or among the early adopters brings numerous benefits. Timing can influence a product's success drastically.Rapid prototyping and production help mitigate risks. Businesses can assess real-world performance early. This approach supports more informed decision-making.<h3>Customization and Agile Manufacturing Strategies</h3>Small batch production encourages customization. It allows for tailored products to meet specific client needs. Customization is often crucial in niche and specialized markets.Agile manufacturing thrives through small batch approaches. This method fosters the ability to swiftly pivot design and production. Companies can experiment with new features efficiently.By focusing on short runs, manufacturers engage in adaptive practices. This agile approach promotes creative solutions to complex challenges. Flexibility in manufacturing can lead to innovation.Leveraging customization enhances customer satisfaction. Offering personalized products builds stronger client relationships. It sets businesses apart in competitive industries, proving its strategic importance.<h2><a href="https://apsx.com/sustainability" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sustainability&nbsp;</a>and Environmental Impact</h2>Small batch injection molding supports sustainable manufacturing. It reduces material waste with precise production capabilities. This approach minimizes the environmental footprint of manufacturing processes.Additionally, by producing only what's needed, companies can maintain an efficient inventory system. This approach aligns with eco-friendly business goals, cutting down on excess materials.Sustainable practices reflect positively on a brand's image. Consumers increasingly prefer businesses with green credentials. Integrating sustainable technologies can also improve overall cost-effectiveness.Moreover, adopting environmentally conscious manufacturing processes opens new market opportunities. Businesses can target eco-focused consumers with sustainable product offerings.<h3>Reducing Waste with On-Demand Production</h3>On-demand production drastically reduces waste. It ensures products are made only when ordered. This strategy prevents unnecessary stockpiling and material usage.Reducing waste is vital for cost management and sustainability. Through precise small runs, resources are optimized. This efficient utilization lessens overall production impact.Targeted production also promotes strategic resource planning. Businesses can streamline their inventory systems effectively. This leads to lesser storage needs and minimized overheads.Additionally, lowering waste supports broader environmental initiatives. Reduced material waste contributes to a healthier planet. It is integral to responsible manufacturing practices.<h3>Supporting Circular Economy and Green Manufacturing</h3>Circular economy principles are enhanced by small batch production. This approach supports resource efficiency. Companies can recover and reuse materials through closed-loop systems.Green manufacturing prioritizes resource conservation. Small batch injection molding aligns with this priority. It aids in reducing emissions and conserving energy.Incorporating recycled materials into production is more feasible. Small runs facilitate easier experimentation. This promotes the development of sustainable material usage.Adhering to circular economy strategies helps in achieving long-term sustainability goals. Companies investing in these methods lead the industry towards responsible innovation. The benefits extend beyond profitability, benefiting both economy and environment.<h2>Technological Advancements in Small Batch Molding</h2>Technology is a game-changer in small batch injection molding. Recent advancements boost efficiency and precision. They also improve the scalability of the production process.<a href="https://apsx.com/automation-efficiency" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Automation</a> plays a critical role here. It streamlines production, reducing manual efforts. This leads to faster cycle times and greater consistency.Additionally, robotics enhances operational accuracy. It handles complex tasks with precision, minimizing human error. This is crucial for maintaining high-quality standards.Industry 4.0 technologies, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), optimize performance. They enable real-time monitoring and data analysis. This allows manufacturers to adapt quickly to changing needs.<h3>Automation, Robotics, and Industry 4.0</h3>Automation seamlessly integrates with small batch production. It reduces labor costs and improves efficiency. This is especially beneficial for low-volume runs.Robotics offers unmatched precision and control. It handles intricate tasks with ease and consistency. This ensures a high level of product quality.Industry 4.0 fuels innovation by connecting machines. It facilitates data-driven decisions and optimizes processes. This integration leads to smarter manufacturing practices.<h3>Material Selection and Mold Design Innovations</h3>Choosing the right material is pivotal. It affects product performance and sustainability. Small batch molding allows experimentation with diverse materials.Innovative mold designs also enhance production. They improve cycle times and reduce waste. This results in a more efficient and cost-effective process.Advanced materials offer unique properties. They cater to specific industry needs, enhancing product functionality. This expands the possibilities of what can be manufactured.Design advancements streamline the production phase. They ensure high-quality outputs and repeatability. This is vital for maintaining consistency in small batch operations.<h2>Case Studies and Real-World Applications</h2>Small batch injection molding is making waves across industries. Its impact is evident in various sectors. From healthcare to electronics, companies are reaping the benefits.In the medical field, rapid prototyping has led to breakthroughs. Custom medical devices are now feasible. This flexibility caters to specific patient needs.Electronics companies leverage this technology for innovation. They quickly adapt designs based on market feedback. This agility keeps them ahead in a competitive landscape.Furthermore, small batch molding aids consumer goods. Limited edition products hit the shelves faster. This resonates well with niche markets seeking exclusivity.<h3>Success Stories in&nbsp;<a href="https://apsx.com/applications" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Various Industries</a></h3>Several industries showcase success stories. In aerospace, customization is key. Small batch molding delivers complex components efficiently.In the automotive sector, specialized parts are vital. Manufacturers appreciate the precision and speed. They can adjust designs swiftly to meet demands.Toys industry benefits too. Limited editions capture the market. This adds value and encourages collectible items.The sporting goods sector takes advantage as well. Personalized equipment enhances performance. This sector thrives on tailored innovation.<h3>Impact on Supply Chain and Competitive Advantage</h3>Small batch injection molding reshapes supply chains. It minimizes dependencies and allows local production. This reduces lead time and transportation costs.Firms gain a competitive edge by being agile. Quick adjustments to product lines are possible. This responsiveness meets consumer trends swiftly.Moreover, it optimizes inventory levels. Companies produce on-demand, slashing overproduction. This alignment with market needs enhances profitability.Ultimately, staying adaptable is crucial. Businesses must respond quickly to changes. Small batch molding offers this strategic advantage.<h2>Conclusion: The Strategic Value of Small Batch Injection Molding</h2>Small batch injection molding stands as a transformative force in modern manufacturing. Its versatility and responsiveness provide companies with strategic advantages. This ensures they remain competitive in ever-changing markets.From reducing waste to enhancing customization, the benefits are substantial. Industries are embracing this method to meet varied consumer demands. It's a pivotal tool in adapting to agile manufacturing practices.Adopting small batch processes can yield long-term gains. Companies not only save on costs but also promote sustainability. As markets evolve, this strategy offers firms a path toward innovation and efficiency.

In the dynamic world of manufacturing, small batch injection molding is a game-changer.

Advantages of Small Batch Injection Molding

A new test developed at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign can predict the performance of a new type of cementitious construction material in five minutes — a significant improvement over the current industry standard method, which takes seven or more days to complete. This development is poised to advance the use of next-generation resources called supplementary cementitious materials — or SCMs — by speeding up the quality-check process before leaving the production floor.Due to declining coal production, traditional SCMs like coal-based fly ashes are in short supply. One promising alternative is newer SCMs like calcined clays, which can partially replace ordinary Portland cement and result in durable, low-cost concrete that produces less carbon dioxide during production.&nbsp;The study, led by <a href="https://cee.illinois.edu/">civil and environmental engineering</a> professor <a href="https://cee.illinois.edu/directory/profile/nishantg">Nishant Garg</a>, uses a low-cost analysis called colorimetry and camera technology for real-time quality control of calcined clays in industrial settings. Calcined clays are SCMs that contain aluminum- and silicon-containing minerals that become chemically reactive when heated to 600 to 900 degrees Celsius.The study findings are published in the journal Cement and Concrete Research, and Garg’s team is enthusiastic to connect with other research teams and industry partners working in this area.After heat treatment, the aluminum and silicon in calcined clays become very chemically reactive, which allows them to contribute to the reactions that lead to long-term strengthening in mortar and concrete. The level of reactivity can be measured, and researchers can use this to predict the product’s final strength and quality.&nbsp;“There are testing methodologies currently in place for measuring the chemical reactivity of the aluminum and silicon in calcined clays, but they require expensive testing equipment and consume a lot of laboratory time,” said Garg, who also is affiliated with the <a href="https://sustainability.illinois.edu/">Institute for Sustainability, Energy and Environment</a>. &nbsp;“Our new test can be run on the fly by the people working in the plant for real-time quality control. Our technique introduces an analyzer that can be used on the production line every five minutes, allowing workers to collect a small sample from their conveyor belt and quickly determine if the quality is consistent.”In the lab, Garg’s team developed a way to measure calcined clay’s reactivity very rapidly. To do it, the researchers first expose the clay to a heated, aggressive alkaline solution for five minutes, which dissolves the clays, freeing the aluminum and silicon ions for measurement. “We spent quite a bit of time optimizing the alkalinity and temperature of our solution so that it can be done in minutes rather than hours or days like the conventional tests currently available,” Garg said.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1740097224252-cr_garg_2-m.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">A schematic diagram of the dissolution and analysis setup. Clays were dissolved in sodium hydroxide solutions for 1-15 minutes. The solution samples were then filtered, diluted and analyzed with standard methods using the spectrophotometer and camera-based method developed in this study. Graphic courtesy Nishant Garg and Cement and Concrete ResearchOnce the solution was ready, the researchers measured the concentration of aluminum and silicon ions dissolved in the solution and then combined those values into a single dissolution index. “And this is where our new approach becomes exciting,” Garg said. “We found that instead of sending these solutions off to a lab to be analyzed using expensive analytical equipment, we could simply add a coloring agent to the solution that reacts with the ions to produce distinct colors depending on the concentrations of aluminum and silicon. We can then quantify the color using a low-cost colorimeter, which is a device that measures how much light a solution absorbs at a specific wavelength.”The team ran many experiments to calibrate the colors corresponding to the clay solution’s aluminum and silicon concentrations. With increasing concentrations of aluminum and silicon, the solutions show stronger pink and blue colors, respectively, the study reports.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1740097243761-cr_garg_1-m.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">A schematic diagram of the camera method: (a) The solutions used for colorimetric analysis of aluminum. (b) The solutions used for colorimetric analysis of silicon. (c) The color range used camera-image analysis. (d) Camera images of standard solutions of aluminum and silicon with concentrations of 20, 100, 300, 500, and 700 ppb. Graphic courtesy Nishant Garg and Cement and Concrete Research“Both colors are in the visible light spectrum, so we can photograph the colored solutions using a low-cost, say $30, camera, and assign the corresponding RGB values from the images to previously established calibration curves to determine the precise amount of aluminum and silicon in the solution based on color,” Garg said. “We ran statistical analysis and found that using this camera image analysis method is comparable with the results obtained using a quantitative analytical device called a UV-VIS spectrophotometer. On 47 diverse clay samples, our five-minute test strongly correlates with the seven-day industry standard test, thus enhancing speed, reducing cost and still maintaining accuracy. “These results show that camera-based colorimetry can be used as an alternative to the absorbance at certain wavelengths for quantitative analysis, the study reports.“This study is exciting for our team here at Illinois and the cement and concrete industry in general because of the opportunity it will present to reduce the testing time while screening for new materials and ensure consistent quality during production at a low cost,” Garg said.Partnerships will be key to refining and implementing this technology because there are a few more hurdles to clear, Garg said.So far, the team said the method works only for calcined clays but there are many other types of supplementary cementitious materials being considered for use in future sustainable cement and concrete mixes. Newer materials called natural pozzolans, reclaimed ashes, as well as older materials like coal fly ashes and blast furnace slags could be potential targets.“We call on industrial producers to share samples and help us verify if our ultra-rapid test can be honed and extended to these systems so that we can predict the performance of any material in a few minutes,” Garg said. “We also call on original equipment manufacturers to help us automate the test into a commercial device.”<hr>The U.S. Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation partially supported this study. Garg and his coauthors have a pending patent application for this technology, filed through The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Office of Technology Management.

A University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign team developed a new test that predicts the performance of a new class of sustainable cementitious construction materials in five minutes. Pictured are Illinois researchers Yujia Min, Hossein Kabir, Nishant Garg, Chirayu Kothari and M. Farjad Iqbal. Photo by Fred Zwicky

A new test developed at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign can predict the performance of a new type of cementitious construction material in five minutes — a significant improvement over the current industry standard method, which takes seven or more days to complete.

Researchers develop a five-minute quality test for sustainable cement industry materials

In this episode, we explore how porous plastic sheets are being used to cool buildings by radiating heat into space and how this could reduce global energy consumption by 10% and CO2 emission by 7%.

Podcast: Cooling Buildings With Porous Plastic Sheets

What is the most flexible 3D printing material? Here we discuss the options, from consumer TPU and TPE filaments to industrial-grade elastomers used in SLA and SLS.

What Is the Most Flexible 3D Printing Material?

Superconducting materials are similar to the carpool lane in a congested interstate. Like commuters who ride together, electrons that pair up can bypass the regular traffic, moving through the material with zero friction.But just as with carpools, how easily electron pairs can flow depends on a number of conditions, including the density of pairs that are moving through the material. This “superfluid stiffness,” or the ease with which a current of electron pairs can flow, is a key measure of a material’s superconductivity.Physicists at MIT and Harvard University have now directly measured superfluid stiffness for the first time in “magic-angle” graphene — materials that are made from two or more atomically thin sheets of&nbsp;graphene twisted with respect to each other at just the right angle to enable a host of exceptional properties, including unconventional superconductivity.This superconductivity makes magic-angle graphene a promising building block for future quantum-computing devices, but exactly how the material superconducts is not well-understood. Knowing the material’s superfluid stiffness will help scientists identify the mechanism of superconductivity in magic-angle graphene.The team’s measurements suggest that magic-angle graphene’s superconductivity is primarily governed by quantum geometry, which refers to the conceptual “shape” of quantum states that can exist in a given material.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1739925452399-MIT-SuperFluidStiffness-02-press.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">“There’s a whole family of 2D superconductors that is waiting to be probed, and we are really just scratching the surface,” says Joel Wang. Credit: Eli Krantz, Krantz NanoArtThe results, which are <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08494-7" target="_blank">reported today in the journal Nature</a>, represent the first time scientists have directly measured superfluid stiffness in a two-dimensional material. To do so, the team developed a new experimental method which can now be used to make similar measurements of other two-dimensional superconducting materials.“There’s a whole family of 2D superconductors that is waiting to be probed, and we are really just scratching the surface,” says study co-lead author Joel Wang, a research scientist in MIT’s Research Laboratory of Electronics (RLE).The study’s co-authors from MIT’s main campus and MIT Lincoln Laboratory include co-lead author and former RLE postdoc Miuko Tanaka as well as Thao Dinh, Daniel Rodan-Legrain, Sameia Zaman, Max Hays, Bharath Kannan, Aziza Almanakly, David Kim, Bethany Niedzielski, Kyle Serniak, Mollie Schwartz, Jeffrey Grover, Terry Orlando, Simon Gustavsson, Pablo Jarillo-Herrero, and William D. Oliver, along with Kenji Watanabe and Takashi Taniguchi of the National Institute for Materials Science in Japan.<h2>Magic resonance</h2>Since its first isolation and characterization in 2004, graphene has proven to be a wonder substance of sorts. The material is effectively a single, atom-thin sheet of graphite consisting of a precise, chicken-wire lattice of carbon atoms. This simple configuration can exhibit a host of superlative qualities in terms of graphene’s strength, durability, and ability to conduct electricity and heat.In 2018, Jarillo-Herrero and colleagues discovered that when two graphene sheets are stacked on top of each other, at a precise “magic” angle, the twisted structure — now known as magic-angle twisted bilayer graphene, or MATBG — exhibits entirely new properties, including superconductivity, in which electrons pair up, rather than repelling each other as they do in everyday materials. These so-called Cooper pairs can form a superfluid, with the potential to superconduct, meaning they could move through a material as an effortless, friction-free current.“But even though Cooper pairs have no resistance, you have to apply some push, in the form of an electric field, to get the current to move,” Wang explains. “Superfluid stiffness refers to how easy it is to get these particles to move, in order to drive superconductivity.”Today, scientists can measure superfluid stiffness in superconducting materials through methods that generally involve placing a material in a microwave resonator — a device which has a characteristic resonance frequency at which an electrical signal will oscillate, at microwave frequencies, much like a vibrating violin string. If a superconducting material is placed within a microwave resonator, it can change the device’s resonance frequency, and in particular, its “kinetic inductance,” by an amount that scientists can directly relate to the material’s superfluid stiffness.However, to date, such approaches have only been compatible with large, thick material samples. The MIT team realized that to measure superfluid stiffness in atomically thin materials like MATBG would require a new approach.“Compared to MATBG, the typical superconductor that is probed using resonators is 10 to 100 times thicker and larger in area,”&nbsp;Wang says. “We weren’t sure if such a tiny material would generate any measurable inductance at all.”<h2>A captured signal</h2>The challenge to measuring superfluid stiffness in MATBG has to do with attaching the supremely delicate material to the surface of the microwave resonator as seamlessly as possible.“To make this work, you want to make an ideally lossless — i.e., superconducting — contact between the two materials,” Wang explains. “Otherwise, the microwave signal you send in will be degraded or even just bounce back instead of going into your target material.”Will Oliver’s group at MIT has been developing techniques to precisely connect extremely delicate, two-dimensional materials, with the goal of building new types of quantum bits for future quantum-computing devices. For their new study, Tanaka, Wang, and their colleagues applied these techniques to seamlessly connect a tiny sample of MATBG to the end of an aluminum microwave resonator. To do so, the group first used conventional methods to assemble MATBG, then sandwiched the structure between two insulating layers of hexagonal boron nitride, to help maintain MATBG’s atomic structure and properties.“Aluminum is a material we use regularly in our superconducting quantum computing research, for example, aluminum resonators to read out aluminum quantum bits (qubits),” Oliver explains. “So, we thought, why not make most of the resonator from aluminum, which is relatively straightforward for us, and then add a little MATBG to the end of it? It turned out to be a good idea.”“To contact the MATBG, we etch it very sharply, like cutting through layers of a cake with a very sharp knife,” Wang says. “We expose a side of the freshly-cut MATBG, onto which we then deposit aluminum — the same material as the resonator — to make a good contact and form an aluminum lead.”The researchers then connected the aluminum leads of the MATBG structure to the larger aluminum microwave resonator. They sent a microwave signal through the resonator and measured the resulting shift in its resonance frequency, from which they could infer the kinetic inductance of the MATBG.When they converted the measured inductance to a value of superfluid stiffness, however, the researchers found that it was much larger than what conventional theories of superconductivity would have predicted. They had a hunch that the surplus had to do with MATBG’s quantum geometry —&nbsp;the way the quantum states of electrons correlate to one another.“We saw a tenfold increase in superfluid stiffness compared to conventional expectations, with a temperature dependence consistent with what the theory of quantum geometry predicts,” Tanaka says. “This was a ‘smoking gun’ that pointed to the role of quantum geometry in governing superfluid stiffness in this two-dimensional material.”“This work represents a great example of how one can use sophisticated quantum technology currently used in quantum circuits to investigate condensed matter systems consisting of strongly interacting particles,” adds Jarillo-Herrero.This research was funded, in part, by the U.S. Army Research Office, the National Science Foundation, the U.S. Air Force Office of Scientific Research, and the U.S. Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering. The work was carried out, in part, through the use of MIT.nano’s facilities.A complementary study on magic-angle twisted trilayer graphene (MATTG), conducted by a collaboration between Philip Kim’s group at Harvard University and Jarillo-Herrero’s group at MIT appears in the same issue of Nature.

Physicists measured how readily a current of electron pairs, represented in yellow and white, flows with no resistance through “magic-angle” graphene, represented as the black lattices. Credit: Eli Krantz, Krantz NanoArt

By determining how readily electron pairs flow through this material, scientists have taken a big step toward understanding its remarkable properties.

Physicists measure a key aspect of superconductivity in "magic-angle" graphene

<html><head></head><body>This article was discussed in our <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/profile/the.next.byte" rel="noopener noreferrer">Next Byte podcast</a>.&nbsp;<iframe height="200px" width="100%" frameborder="no" scrolling="no" seamless="" src="https://player.simplecast.com/2ef1442c-9a8a-497c-87aa-be29b55ca940?dark=false" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe> The full article will continue below.<hr>A class of synthetic soft materials called liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) can change shape in response to heat, similar to how muscles contract and relax in response to signals from the nervous system. 3D printing these materials opens new avenues to applications, ranging from soft robots and prosthetics to compression textiles.Controlling the material’s properties requires squeezing elastomer-forming ink through the nozzle of a 3D printer, which induces changes to the ink’s internal structure and aligns rigid building blocks known as mesogens at the molecular scale. However, achieving specific, targeted alignment, and resulting properties, in these shape-morphing materials has required extensive trial and error to fully optimize printing conditions. Until now.In a new study, researchers at the <a href="https://seas.harvard.edu/">Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences&nbsp;</a>(SEAS), Princeton University, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, and Brookhaven National Laboratory worked together to write a playbook for printing liquid crystal elastomers with predictable, controllable alignment, and hence properties, every time. By using an X-ray characterization method during the printing process that enables quantification of mesogen alignment at the microscale, the researchers have established a fundamental framework to guide their rapid design and fabrication across multiple scales.By tuning the microscale nozzle design, printing speed, and temperature, one can induce the desired molecular-scale alignment, which translates into prescribed shape-morphing and mechanical behavior at the macroscale.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzM5MjMyNzE0ODExLUhfc2hhcGVzLmpwZyIsImVkaXRzIjp7InJlc2l6ZSI6eyJ3aWR0aCI6OTUwLCJmaXQiOiJjb3ZlciJ9fX0=" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">The researchers demonstrated on-the-fly control of liquid crystal molecular alignment by printing ‘H’ shapes. Red consists of highly aligned molecules while black consists of poorly aligned molecules.Published in <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2414960122" target="_blank">Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences</a>, the study’s senior author is <a href="https://lewisgroup.seas.harvard.edu/" target="_blank">Jennifer Lewis</a>, the Hansjörg Wyss Professor of Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard SEAS. Lewis’s lab has decades of experience in molecular and nanoscale design of 3D printing inks for new, functional materials. The study was co-led by former Harvard postdoctoral researcher <a href="https://cbe.princeton.edu/people/emily-davidson" target="_blank">Emily Davidson,&nbsp;</a>now a faculty member at Princeton University, with expertise in the design, nanoscale assembly, X-ray characterization, and 3D printing of soft materials.Liquid crystal elastomers exhibit their best shape-morphing and mechanical properties when individual chains composed of liquid crystalline parts are aligned with each other. The researchers printed these liquid crystalline chains through fine nozzles, driving their flow-induced alignment.“When this project began, we simply didn’t have a good understanding of how to precisely control liquid crystal alignment during extrusion-based 3D printing,” said first author Rodrigo Telles, a SEAS graduate student, Academic Cooperation Program scholar and collaborator with Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. “Yet it is their degree of alignment that gives rise to varying amounts of actuation and contraction when heated.”<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzM5MjMyNzM0NzgzLXByaW50ZXJfbm96emxlcy5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Flow simulations of ink through tapered (top) and hyperbolic nozzles.To investigate alignment of molecules during printing, the researchers used different-shaped nozzles – tapered and hyperbolic. The nozzle shape affected how the ink flowed out, which in turn controlled molecular alignment. By varying extrusion speed and nozzle shape, they were able to create two types of filaments: one with an outer layer of well-aligned molecules surrounding a poorly aligned core, and another with uniform alignment throughout.Their calculations and experiments showed that the distribution of flow type and speed inside the nozzle determined the filament type. While there were many factors that mattered, the researchers showed they could combine most of these into a single parameter called a Weissenberg number to describe how different printing conditions align the molecules.“In the 3D printing community, most of us use a relatively small number of commercially available printheads. This study showed us that it’s important to pay attention to the details of both nozzle geometry and flow – and that we can exploit them to control material properties," Davidson said.&nbsp;<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzM5MjMyNzU1NTc5LVgtcmF5X21pY3JvYmVhbS5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">The researchers used an X-ray microbeam, during printing, to locally measure liquid crystal alignment and direction inside the printer nozzle.The team worked with researchers at a wide-angle X-ray scattering beamline at the Department of Energy’s Brookhaven National Laboratory to take detailed X-ray measurements during 3D printing. This method allowed them to look inside the nozzles to visualize LCE alignment using different nozzle geometries and flow conditions. The X-ray measurements helped them determine the precise degree of alignment of the liquid crystalline molecules at any given position within the nozzles, providing a road map for their flow-induced alignment that is linked to tunable nozzle designs and printing parameters.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzM5MjMyNzcyNjc4LUxld2lzX0JOTF9ncm91cC5qcGciLCJlZGl0cyI6eyJyZXNpemUiOnsid2lkdGgiOjk1MCwiZml0IjoiY292ZXIifX19" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Emily Davidson and Rodrigo Telles, far right, at the X-ray instrument with former and current Brookhaven National Laboratory researchers. From left: Benjamin Yavitt, Lutz Wiegart, Guillaume Freychet and Mikhail Zhernenkov.Among their results was that a nozzle with a hyperbolic shape created better and more uniform alignment than conventional nozzles.The work opens new avenues for fabricating LCE structures with programmed shape morphing and mechanics, for use in applications such as adaptive structures and artificial muscles.“The ability to ‘see’ into liquid crystal elastomers and quantify their alignment at the microscale during printing via wide angle X-ray scattering measurements has provided a fundamental framework of their processing-structure-property relationships for the first time,” Lewis said.Supporters of the research included the National Science Foundation through the Harvard Materials Research Science and Engineering Center, and the U.S. Army Research Office Multidisciplinary University Research Initiatives Program. Additional funding came from a Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory Directed Research and Development project on Shape Changing of Responsive Elastomer Structures. The researchers used Department of Energy resources at the National Synchrotron Light Source II at Brookhaven National Laboratory.</body></html>

Nozzle shape, print parameters tune liquid crystal elastomer morphing

Encoding many properties in one material via 3D printing

This article was discussed in our <a href="https://www.wevolver.com/profile/the.next.byte" rel="noopener noreferrer">Next Byte podcast</a>.&nbsp;<iframe height="200px" width="100%" frameborder="no" scrolling="no" seamless="" src="https://player.simplecast.com/cbbca29e-41f6-4d45-9703-e21146c60308?dark=false" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe> The full article will continue below.<hr>Traditional cooling systems for buildings use refrigerants and electricity, which contribute to the atmospheric greenhouse effect that exacerbates more extreme weather events. In response, materials scientists have turned to unconventional methods for cooling down buildings. An international team of researchers co-led by <a href="https://www.esm.psu.edu/department/directory-detail-g.aspx?q=AXL4" target="_blank">Akhlesh Lakhtakia</a>, Penn State Evan Pugh University Professor of Engineering Science and Mechanics, developed porous plastic sheets that can lower building temperatures through radiative cooling. &nbsp;When applied to an enclosed space, the sheets, which are made of powdered polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and are about one-twelfth of an inch thick, can decrease the temperature of an enclosed space by 8.4 degrees Celsius, or about 14 degrees Fahrenheit. Researchers published their findings in <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/admt.202400713" target="_blank">Advanced Materials Technologies</a>. &nbsp;“While other passive radiators reflect short-wave infrared light back into space, our passive radiator reflects both visible light and short-wave infrared light, which results in high daytime cooling,” Lakhtakia said. “The sheets would be an inexpensive, effective addition to homeowners’ siding and roofs to passively cool down a home and to supplement air conditioning units.” &nbsp;To fabricate the sheets, Lakhtakia’s collaborators at the Dalian University of Technology in China used one-step powder sintering to fuse the PMMA powder into flat sheets with various sizes of air pockets, or pores, within them. Like the pores in our skin, the pores in the PMMA sheets cause light to scatter and radiate at different angles, thereby cooling down interior spaces. At night, the porous sheets radiate medium-wave infrared light through the atmosphere into deep space, again cooling down interior spaces.&nbsp;“Powder sintering is a powerful method to prepare the porous materials with desired porosity and superior macroscopic properties,” said corresponding author Mingkai Lei, professor of materials science and engineering at the Dalian University of Technology. “We look forward to working with Lakhtakia and Penn State on additional applications of the material.” &nbsp;To test the materials, Lakhtakia’s collaborators created a box out of the porous PMMA sheets, placed a thermometer within the box, then placed it in the sun and measured the temperature. By reflecting, on average, 96% of infrared and visible light, the porous PMMA sheets cooled down the sunny 80 degree Fahrenheit outdoor air temperature to 65.3 degrees Fahrenheit inside the box. By contrast, an ordinary cardboard box with the same dimensions cooled down the space to 75.2 degrees Fahrenheit.<img src="https://images.wevolver.com/eyJidWNrZXQiOiJ3ZXZvbHZlci1wcm9qZWN0LWltYWdlcyIsImtleSI6ImZyb2FsYS8xNzM4ODAzMjM2Mzk4LTI0MDY0MC1wc24tcG93ZGVyc2ludGVyaW5ncGFwZXIuanBnIiwiZWRpdHMiOnsicmVzaXplIjp7IndpZHRoIjo5NTAsImZpdCI6ImNvdmVyIn19fQ==" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">By radiating 96% of all light – both infrared and visible –&nbsp;polymer sheets can cool an 80 degree Fahrenheit outdoor air temperature to 65.3 degrees Fahrenheit inside the box, seen at right. By contrast, an ordinary cardboard box with the same dimensions cooled down the space to 75.2 degrees Fahrenheit, seen at left. Credit: Provided by Yupeng Li/Dalian University of Technology . All Rights Reserved.They then repeated the experiment in the lab, using a solar simulator in place of the sun, which allowed the researchers to control for conditions like wind. Since room temperature has a significantly higher temperature than cold outer space, the radiative cooling effect was lessened inside the lab than in open air. &nbsp;When exposed to the sun on a building, the PMMA sheets will degrade after a few years and lose their effectiveness, Lakhtakia said, but he envisions new businesses starting up to install and replace them, in turn creating new jobs in communities. &nbsp;“The sheets can be easily ground up, recycled and powder sintered on an industrial scale to reuse on another building,” Lakhtakia said. “The passive daytime cooling requires no energy or electricity and can be applied to buildings in communities experiencing increased daytime temperatures year over year due to climate change.”&nbsp;In addition to Lakhtakia and Lei, the co-authors include first author Yupeng Li, Hui Zhao, Xiangren Meng, Yishu Zhao and Haodong Liu, all from the Dalian University of Technology.&nbsp;

The PMMA sheets fabricated by materials science researchers are white and porous, making them a suitable material for covering buildings for passive daytime cooling. Credit: Provided by Yupeng Li/Dalian University of Technology. All Rights Reserved.

An international team of researchers co-led by Akhlesh Lakhtakia, Penn State Evan Pugh University Professor of Engineering Science and Mechanics, developed porous plastic sheets that can lower building temperatures through radiative cooling. 

Porous plastic sheets can cool buildings by radiating light to space

The discovery,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.ado7201">detailed in a paper publishing Jan. 31 in the journal Science</a>, could revolutionize technologies that rely on controlling light polarization, such as displays, sensors and optical communications devices.Chiral materials are special because they can twist light. One way to create them is through exciton-coupling, where light excites nanomaterials to form excitons that interact and share energy with each other. Historically, exciton-coupled chiral materials were made from organic, carbon-based molecules. Creating them from inorganic semiconductors, prized for their stability and tunable optical properties, has proven exceptionally challenging due to the precise control needed over nanomaterial interactions.Scientists from the lab of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mse.cornell.edu/faculty-directory/richard-douglas-robinson">Richard D. Robinson</a>, associate professor of materials science and engineering in Cornell Engineering and senior author of the study, overcame this challenge by employing “<a href="https://news.cornell.edu/stories/2018/03/new-technique-simplifies-creation-nanoparticle-magic-sized-clusters">magic-sized clusters</a>” made from cadmium-based semiconductor compounds. Magic-sized clusters are unique nanoparticles because they are identical copies of each other, existing only in discrete sizes, unlike many nanoparticles that can vary continuously in size. Previous research by the Robinson Group reported that when the nanoclusters were processed into thin films, they demonstrated circular dichroism, a key signature of chirality.“Circular dichroism means the material absorbs left-handed and right-handed circularly polarized light differently, like how screw threads dictate which way something twists,” Robinson explained. “We realized that by carefully controlling the film’s drying geometry, we could control its structure and its chirality. We saw this as an opportunity to bring a property usually found in organic materials into the inorganic world.”The researchers used&nbsp;<a href="https://youtu.be/AdwQXFHGIj4">meniscus-guided evaporation</a> to twist linear nanocluster assemblies into helical shapes, forming homochiral domains several square millimeters in size. These films exhibit an exceptionally large light-matter response, surpassing previously reported record values for inorganic semiconductor materials by nearly two orders of magnitude.“I’m excited about the versatility of the method, which works with different nanocluster compositions, allowing us to tailor the films to interact with light from the ultraviolet to the infrared,” said Thomas Ugras, a doctoral student in the field of applied and engineering physics who led the research. “The assembly technique imbues not only chirality but also linear alignment onto nanocluster fibers as they deposit, making the films sensitive to both circularly and linearly polarized light, enhancing their functionality as metamaterial-like optical sensors.”This discovery could revolutionize technologies that rely on controlling light polarization, and lead to new innovations, such as holographic 3D displays, room-temperature quantum computing, ultra-low-power devices, or medical diagnostics that analyze blood glucose levels non-invasively. The findings also provide insights into the formation of natural chiral structures, such as DNA, which could inform future research in biology and nanotechnology.“We want to understand how factors like cluster size, composition, orientation and proximity influence chiroptic behavior,” Robinson said. “It’s a complex science, but demonstrating this across three different material systems tells us there’s a lot to explore and it opens new doors for research and applications.”Robinson said future work will focus on extending the technique to other materials, such as nanoplatelets and quantum dots, as well as refining the process for industrial-scale manufacturing processes that coat devices with thin films of semiconductor materials.The research was mainly supported by the National Science Foundation. A Research Travel Grant from the Cornell Graduate School aided in the data collection. Portions of the work were carried out at the Cornell Materials Research Science and Engineering Center and the Materials Solutions Network at CHESS (MSN-C), an Air Force Research Laboratory supported sub-facility of the Cornell High Energy Synchrotron Source, and at the Diamond Light Source in the United Kingdom.

Cornell scientists have developed a novel technique to transform symmetrical semiconductor particles into intricately twisted, spiral structures – or “chiral” materials – producing films with extraordinary light-bending properties.

Light-twisting materials created from nano semiconductors

Scientists at ITMO University have developed multiple-use sensor substrates coated with gold nanoparticles for use in gauging the precise ratio of chlorogenic acid in natural and manufactured raw material. This natural antioxidant is widely used in the production of medical, cosmetic, and food products. The new technology should make it possible to assess the presence of chlorogenic acid in lab and field conditions alike. The results of the study <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/25/23/12785" target="_blank" id="isPasted">were published</a> in the Q1 publication International Journal of Molecular Sciences.&nbsp;Polyphenols play a key role in biological processes thanks to their antioxidant properties. One of the most widespread compounds within this group is chlorogenic acid, which is found in coffee, sunflower seeds, blueberry leaves, and chicory. It reduces the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins, thus reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. However, an excess of chlorogenic acid in the production of, say, plant-based protein may lead to undesirable coloration of the end product. For this reason, it is highly important to monitor the presence of this acid during production.Researchers from ITMO have developed high-precision sensors capable of detecting chlorogenic acid in amounts from 10 to 250 micromoles with an accuracy up to 99%. The technology takes the form of silicon substrates covered with a film of gold nanoparticles. The sensors work in tandem with Raman spectroscopy – an analytical method that can identify the structure of a substance and its amount with high precision by analyzing the scattering of a laser beam. As a result, scientists can produce unique “fingerprints” of molecules which, just like in forensic science, may be used to identify specific substances.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1738195279359-1413501.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">A close-up of the substrate coated in gold nanoparticles. Photo by Dmitry Grigoryev / ITMO.NEWSThe gold nanoparticles are applied onto the substrates in several stages. First, nanoparticles between 14 and 99 nanometers in size are synthesized in a solution. Next, they are combined like building blocks with the help of a special molecule and then arranged on the border of water and an organic solvent, thus producing an even, super-thin film just a few dozen nanometers thick. The film is transferred onto the substrate using the water transfer method: the substrate is carefully dipped into the solution and the film sticks to the surface in an even layer. The production method is shown in more detail in <a href="https://vk.com/video-216077090_456239062" target="_blank">this documentary film</a> (link in Russian).<blockquote>“Raman spectroscopy allows us to quickly conduct tests on both stationary and portable devices. Using this method, we can produce a ‘fingerprint’ that allows us to accurately assess the structure of a substance. To do this, we aim a laser beam at the sensor substrate and analyze its scattering upon contact with the sensor’s surface. The spectrometer registers scattered light and we end up with an individual set of spectral lines that’s unique to this specific substance. With our device, chlorogenic acid is detected with an almost 100% accuracy; in addition, we can identify its ratio within the examined material with an accuracy up to 90%,” explains Evgeny Smirnov, DSc, the curator of the research team and a researcher at ITMO's Infochemistry Scientific Center.&nbsp;</blockquote>Today, the scientists process the results of Raman spectroscopy manually. They compare the properties of chlorogenic acid extracted from natural raw material with the “fingerprint” of chemically pure chlorogenic acid. In the future, they plan to automate the process, teaching algorithms and software to independently recognize – and gauge the amount of – specific substances within mixtures based on spectral lines.The sensors may be used in agriculture to select the raw material of highest quality, such as coffee beans, from which chlorogenic acid may then be extracted. The technology can also be used in production to track the desired level of the acid within the end product and to prevent discoloration. This is applicable for medical products for diabetes and cardiovascular disease, wine, or plant-based protein.<blockquote>“Our main goal is to make the process of detecting polyphenols accessible to manufacturers of every size. To do this, we strive to reduce the cost of substrates as much as possible without affecting their effectiveness. Right now, we’re looking for a suitable substitute for silicon, as the material’s cost ends up being higher than the actual gold nanoparticles, even when accounting for associated workload. We’re also conducting experiments with silver nanoparticles,” says Arina Pavlova, one of the authors of the study and a Bachelor’s student at the Infochemistry Scientific Center.</blockquote><hr>The project was conducted with financial support from the Russian Science Foundation’s&nbsp;<a href="https://rscf.ru/prjcard_int?22-73-00206" target="_blank" id="isPasted">grant No. 22-73-00206</a>.

Researchers Evgeny Smirnov and Ariana Pavlova. Photo by Dmitry Grigoryev / ITMO.NEWS

Scientists at ITMO University have developed multiple-use sensor substrates coated with gold nanoparticles for use in gauging the precise ratio of chlorogenic acid in natural and manufactured raw material.

Researchers Develop Gold Nanoparticle-Based Sensors for Precise Detection of Natural Antioxidants

Experiments from the Caltech lab of Chiara Daraio, G. Bradford Jones Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Applied Physics and Heritage Medical Research Institute Investigator, have yielded a fascinating new type of matter, neither granular nor crystalline, that responds to some stresses as a fluid would and to others like a solid. The new material, known as PAM (for polycatenated architected materials) could have uses in areas ranging from helmets and other protective gear to biomedical devices and robotics.<iframe width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Z-P7lfW-p-8?&amp;wmode=opaque&amp;rel=0&amp;enablejsapi=1&amp;origin=https://www.wevolver.com" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" class="fr-draggable" data-lf-form-tracking-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-yt-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true" data-lf-vimeo-playback-inspected-kn9eq4roawkarlvp="true"></iframe>PAMs in Action.&nbsp;Credit: Wenjie Zhou and Peter Holderness/CaltechPAMs are not found in nature, though their basic form is known to us through the millennia-old manufacture of chain mail: small metal rings linked together to form a mesh, most often used as a flexible form of armor. PAMs, however, are like chain mail on steroids. Following the basic principle of interlocking shapes, like those found in a chain, PAMs are made up of a variety of shapes linked together to form three-dimensional patterns whose configurations are almost unimaginably variable. The resulting materials, which Daraio and her colleagues have rendered using 3D printers, exhibit behaviors not found in other types of materials.Wenjie Zhou, postdoctoral scholar research associate in mechanical and civil engineering, has been working on these types of materials for two years in Daraio's lab. "I was a chemist, and I wanted to make these structures at a molecular scale, but that proved too challenging. In order to get answers to the questions I had about how these structures behave, I decided to join Chiara's group and study PAMs at a larger scale."The PAMs that Daraio's group created and studied were first modeled on a computer and were designed to replicate lattice structures found in crystalline substances but with the crystal's fixed particles replaced by entangled rings or cages with multiple sides.These lattices were then printed out three-dimensionally using a variety of materials, including acrylic polymers, nylon, and metals. Once the PAMs could be held in the palm of one's hand—most of the prototypes are 5-centimeter (2-inch) cubes or spheres with a 5-centimeter diameter—they were exposed to various types of physical stress. "We started with compression," Zhou explains, "compressing the objects a bit harder each time. Then we tried a simple shear, a lateral force, like what you would apply if you were trying to tear the material apart. Finally, we did rheology tests, seeing how the materials responded to twisting, first slowly and then more quickly and strongly."In some scenarios, these PAMs behaved like liquids. "Imagine applying a shear stress to water," Zhou says. "There would be zero resistance. Because PAMs have all these coordinated degrees of freedom, with the rings and cages they are composed of sliding against one another as the links of a chain would, many have very little shear resistance." But when these structures are compressed, they may become fully rigid, behaving like solids.This dynamism makes PAMs unique. "PAMs are really a new type of matter," Daraio says. "We all have a clear distinction in mind when we think of solid materials and granular matter. Solid materials are often described as crystalline lattices. This is what you see in the classic ball-and-stick models of atomic, chemical, or larger crystalline structures. It is these materials that have formed our conventional understanding of solid matter. The other class of materials is granular, as we see in substances like rice, flour, or ground coffee. These materials are made up of discrete particles, free to move and slide relative to one another."PAMs defy this binary classification. "With PAMs, the individual particles are linked as they are in crystalline structures, and yet, because these particles are free to move relative to one another, they flow, they slide on top of each other, and they change their relative positions, more like grains of sand," Daraio explains. "PAMs can be very different from one another. You can print them in squishy materials or hard ones. You can change the shape of each particle, and you can change the lattice that you use to connect these particles. Each of these parameters affects the behavior of the resulting material. But all of them show a characteristic transition between fluid and solid-like behavior. This transition may happen under different circumstances, but it always happens.""Architected materials have been a significant subfield in material science and engineering for the past 20 to 30 years," Daraio says. "But as hybrids between granular materials and elastic deformable materials, PAMs are exciting and new. We have theories to describe granular matter and theories to describe elastic deformable matter, but nothing that captures these in-between materials. It's a fascinating frontier that promises to redefine what materials are and how they behave."At this point, potential uses for PAMs are largely speculative but nevertheless intriguing, Daraio says: "These materials have unique energy-absorption properties. Because each element can slide and rotate and reorganize relative to each other, they can dissipate energy very efficiently," making them better candidates for use in helmets or other forms of protective gear than the currently used foams. This property makes them similarly attractive for use in packaging or in any environment where cushioning or stabilization is required.Experiments with microscale PAMs have shown that they will expand or contract in response to applied electrical charges as well as physical forces, suggesting possible uses in biomedical devices or soft robotics.Co-author Liuchi Li (PhD '20), now assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering at Princeton University, is enthusiastic about the future of PAMs: "We can envision incorporating advanced artificial intelligence techniques to accelerate the exploration of this vast design space. We are only scratching the surface of what is possible."This research is published in&nbsp;Science under the title&nbsp;<a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adr9713">"3D polycatenated architected materials."</a> Co-authors include Zhou, Daraio, Sujeeka Nadarajah, Hujie Yan (MS '24), Aashutosh K. Prachet, and Payal Patel of Caltech; Li of Princeton University; and Anna Guell Izard and Xiaoxing Xia (PhD '19) of Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL). Computational resources were provided by the High-Performance Computing Center at Caltech, and the research was funded by the Army Research Office, the Gary Clinard Innovation Fund, LLNL, and the US Department of Energy.

The new material, known as PAM (for polycatenated architected materials) could have uses in areas ranging from helmets and other protective gear to biomedical devices and robotics.

Reimagining Chain Mail: 3D Architected Materials That Adapt and Protect

In an <a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2413370121" id="isPasted">article</a> published Nov. 8 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, a research team led by professor <a href="https://engineering.princeton.edu/faculty/glaucio-paulino">Glaucio Paulino</a> reported that they used strategic cutting and folding to turn a single sheet of paper into a metamaterial — a material that demonstrates unique properties based on form and geometry. An egg carton, which is stronger than a sheet of cardboard, is a simple example.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1737678371603-16X9-XiangxinDang-PNAS_121024_0023-1536x864.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">The structures are designed with a pattern of cuts and folds.Paulino said the researchers used aspects of paper cutting, or kirigami, to transform a sheet of paper into a complex surface with a large number of holes, which mathematicians call a high-genus surface. The researchers then applied folding techniques based in origami to turn the paper into a three-dimensional structure. However, most of the work involved exploring the underlying mathematics behind the combined patterns of cuts and folds and working out algorithms that engineers can use to create metamaterials with desired properties.“Combing the two disciplines is not as simple as cutting a piece of paper and folding it,” said Xiangxin Dang, a postdoctoral researcher in Paulino’s lab and the article’s lead author. “It involves a careful balance between the two ideas.”Dang said the balance between the cuts and folds allows designers to create a network effect among shapes that are connected with hinges. This allows designers to create adjustable, three-dimensional structures that can be tailored to respond to outside forces like pressure. For example, a structure could be rigid in one direction and flexible in another. With a simple twist, the structure can alter flexibility as its geometry changes.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1737678388413-16X9-XiangxinDang-PNAS_121024_0038-1536x864.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">Folded and unfolded structures.Paulino said designers can create shapes that use the structure to introduce polarity — the ability to guide flow in one direction. Electric circuits are an example of polarity. But unlike electric circuits, the new metamaterial uses geometry rather than electromagnetic fields to generate polarity. With additional work, he said engineers could use the technique to create geometric circuits to guide sound.“It’s just one piece, which makes it easier to work with and with less chance for mistakes in manufacturing,” said Paulino, the Margareta Engman Augustine Professor of Engineering. “By combining cuts and folds into high-genus surfaces, we can introduce polarity into an adjustable, folded structure. Eventually, this could be used for optics and semiconductors.”Paulino said the patterns of cuts in the sheet before folding show a surprising lack of symmetry. To achieve the properly folded structure, “you have to break a lot of symmetry,” he said.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1737678405151-16X9-XiangxinDang-PNAS_121024_0029-1024x576.jpg" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">The pattern of holes is highly asymmetric.The work grew out of an earlier experiment with a folding structure that did not work. But Paulino said the results pointed to an approach that led to the system that allowed the researchers to introduce polarity into the 3D structure. The ability to make informed mistakes, Paulino said, can be rewarding. “When you have an idea, most of the time it does not work,” Paulino said. “But sometimes, when you make a mistake, it generates something interesting.”<hr>The article, “<a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2413370121">Folding a single high-genus surface into a repertoire of metamaterial functionalities</a>,” was published Nov. 8 in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Besides Paulino and Dang, the authors included Stefano Gonella, a professor of engineering at the University of Minnesota. A&nbsp;<a href="https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2420375121">commentary</a> by Zeb Rocklin also appeared in PNAS. Support for the research was provided in part by the National Science Foundation.

Xiangxin Dang, a postdoctoral researcher, displays an adjustable structure made from a cardboard sheet. Photos by Sameer A. Khan/Fotobuddy

Combining insights from two ancient art forms, Princeton engineers used a single sheet of material to create 3D structures with adjustable flexibility that could guide sound and light to perform complex tasks.

With a single paper sheet, engineers make dancing structures that direct light and sound

Nylon has carved a niche for its remarkable properties in industrial materials. Amongst these, PA 11 and PA 12 stand out as popular choices, each known for their strong resistance and excellent ductility. These thermoplastic polymers, pivotal in various applications and often used with <a href="https://xometry.pro/en-eu/articles/3d-printing-mjf-overview/">multi jet fusion (MJF)</a> and <a href="https://xometry.pro/en-eu/articles/3d-printing-sls-overview/">selective laser sintering (SLS)</a> technologies, are often selected for their unique characteristics.<h2 data-counter-attr="value0">What are PA11 and PA12?</h2>PA 11 and PA 12, both under the nylon family, are polyamides distinct in composition and usage. PA 11, a bio-based polymer, is derived from renewable sources like castor oil. Its composition aligns with environmental sustainability, making it a choice material in various industries. In contrast, PA 12 is a synthetic polymer primarily made from petroleum sources.Though similar in appearance, these polymers offer unique properties. In the industry, PA 11 is valued for its superior mechanical properties and ease of use, having applications in automotive, oil and gas, and sports goods. Its use in additive manufacturing is growing thanks to its durability and flexibility. PA 12, on the other hand, is recognized for its dimensional stability, particularly in 3D printing.<section><img data-fr-image-pasted="true" src="https://xometry.pro/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/sls-pa11-vfs-front-sample-part-xometry-1440x1153-1.webp" alt="SLS PA natural white" data-lazy-src="https://xometry.pro/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/sls-pa11-vfs-front-sample-part-xometry-1440x1153-1.webp" data-ll-status="loaded" class="fr-fic fr-dii">SLS PA 11<img data-fr-image-pasted="true" src="https://xometry.pro/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/SLS-PA12-Natural-Front-1-scaled.jpg" alt="SLS PA12 Natural" data-lazy-src="https://xometry.pro/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/SLS-PA12-Natural-Front-1-scaled.jpg" data-ll-status="loaded" class="fr-fic fr-dii">SLS PA 12<img data-fr-image-pasted="true" src="https://xometry.pro/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MJF-PA12-Natural-Front-scaled.jpg" alt="" data-lazy-src="https://xometry.pro/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MJF-PA12-Natural-Front-scaled.jpg" data-ll-status="loaded" class="fr-fic fr-dii">MJF PA 12<h2> Properties and Characteristics of PA12 and PA11</h2><h3 data-counter-attr="value2" id="isPasted">Mechanical Properties and Chemical Resistance</h3>While similar in some aspects, PA 11 and PA 12 exhibit distinct mechanical and chemical properties. PA 11 is chemically resistant to various substances, including hydrocarbons, alcohols, and detergents. It also has a lower environmental impact and uses fewer non-renewable resources.&nbsp;In contrast, PA 12 shows exceptional strength, heat resistance and resistance to cracking under stress, performing well even in sub-zero temperatures. Its resistance extends to chemicals like hydraulic fluids, oils, and solvents. This chemical resistance is particularly beneficial in automotive and mechanical parts, where exposure to such chemicals is frequent. Its robustness in various chemical environments ensures the longevity and reliability of components.<h3 data-counter-attr="value3">Thermal Resistance, Flexibility, and Durability</h3>In terms of thermal resistance, PA 11 offers superior stability against light, UV, and weather conditions. Its elasticity and high impact resistance make it ideal for durable and flexible applications.PA 12, characterized by its high strength and stiffness, maintains consistent performance over time, making it suitable for parts that need to endure stress and wear. Nylon PA12 can withstand higher temperatures, making it suitable for applications requiring better thermal performance.<h3 data-counter-attr="value4">Water Absorption</h3>When it comes to water absorption, PA 11 exhibits low rates (1.6%), which is advantageous in maintaining the integrity of parts in moist environments. PA 12’s very low moisture absorption (0.5%) further enhances its dimensional stability, making it ideal for applications where consistent performance in varied humidity conditions is crucial.<table><thead><tr><th>Properties</th><th>PA 11</th><th>PA 12</th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td>Chemical Resistance</td><td>Resistant to a wide range</td><td>Exceptionally resistant to oils, and solvents</td></tr><tr><td>Environmental Impact</td><td>Lower; uses fewer resources</td><td>Higher; primarily petroleum-based</td></tr><tr><td>Thermal Resistance</td><td>Superior stability</td><td>High, excellent in low temperatures</td></tr><tr><td>Flexibility and Elasticity</td><td>High elasticity</td><td>Strong, less flexible than PA 11</td></tr><tr><td>Durability</td><td>High impact resistance</td><td>Resistant to cracking, high-abrasion resistance</td></tr><tr><td>Common Applications</td><td>Functional prototypes, automotive parts</td><td>Full functioning parts, an alternative to injection moulding plastics</td></tr></tbody></table><h2 data-counter-attr="value5">Surface Quality Differences</h2>The surface finish of a material is crucial in determining its aesthetic appeal and functional capability. PA 11 typically provides a smoother finish, enhancing the visual aspect and contributing to functionality, especially in parts where surface friction is a factor.This smooth finish is advantageous for demanding applications that require a fine, detailed surface, making PA 11 a preferred choice in industries where aesthetics are as important as functionality.On the other hand, PA 12, while offering a good surface quality, tends to have a slightly rougher finish compared to PA 11. This characteristic can be beneficial in applications where a grip or a non-slip surface is necessary.<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1737619587749-MJF-PA12-complex-print-2-1536x1024.webp" style="width: 832px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">MJF PA12 complex print<h2 data-counter-attr="value6" id="isPasted">Cost Analysis: PA11 vs. PA12</h2>In additive manufacturing, cost considerations play a pivotal role in material selection. PA 11, with its excellent ductility, allows for the design of parts with thinner walls (0.5 mm instead of 0.8 mm for PA12). But even if this results in lighter and lower-cost parts, reduces waste and accelerates production times, PA11 remains on average 30% more expensive than PA12*.The superior impact and abrasion resistance of PA 11 further contribute to longer service lifetimes of parts, leading to cost savings and minimized downtime in various systems. PA11 is particularly valued for its smoother surface finish and superior overall quality when compared to PA12.Conversely, PA 12, while offering high durability and resistance, may entail higher costs due to its synthetic petroleum-based origin. The production process of PA 12 can be more resource-intensive, potentially reflected in its market price. However, the material’s strength and processability make it a worthwhile investment for specific applications.PA 11 and PA 12 hinge on balancing initial material costs and long-term value for businesses. The decision must consider factors such as the product’s intended use, production efficiency, and the lifespan of the parts being manufactured.*The price difference can be tested in our&nbsp;<a href="https://get.xometry.eu/?locale=en">Xometry Instant Quoting Engine®</a>.<h2 data-counter-attr="value7">PA11 Vs. PA12: Which One is Better Suited for Clip Features?</h2>The material selection is crucial for ensuring functionality and durability when manufacturing clip features. PA 11, with its excellent ductility and flexibility, is more suited for creating clips.This flexibility allows the clips to endure repeated bending and snapping actions without losing shape or breaking. Such a property is essential in applications where clips must be sturdy and adaptable.PA 12, while strong and durable, offers a little less flexibility than PA 11 (20% vs. 30%). Nevertheless, PA12 material remains ideal for clip features that demand a high degree of bending or flexibility.<h2 data-counter-attr="value8">Applications of PA11 and PA12</h2><h3 data-counter-attr="value9">PA 11 Applications</h3><ul><li>Mechanically Loaded Prototypes: Ideal for prototypes requiring mechanical strength, such as automotive parts.</li><li>Automotive Industry: Used in automotive interior components for crash-relevant parts due to its impact resistance.</li><li>Visible Parts: Suited for abrasively stressed and manually manipulated visible parts, offering aesthetic and functional benefits.</li><li>Specialized Designs: Excelling in small to medium-sized parts, thin walls, and lattice structures.</li></ul><h3 data-counter-attr="value10">PA 12 Applications</h3><ul><li>Functional Plastic Parts: Commonly used for fully functional plastic parts, substituting typical injection moulding plastics with superior mechanical properties.</li><li>Medical Applications: Biocompatible, making it suitable for 3D printing medical devices like prostheses.</li><li>Movable Part Connections: High abrasion resistance makes it ideal for parts like gears and hinges.</li><li>Weather-Adaptable Parts: Light-stabilized properties allow for creating parts adaptable to various weather conditions.</li></ul><img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1737619648481-sls-pa12-natural-back-sample-part-xometry-1440x1153-1.webp" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib"><h2 data-counter-attr="value11" id="isPasted">Balancing Choices: Considering Differences Between PA 11 and PA 12</h2>In conclusion, the choice between PA 11 and PA 12 hinges on carefully considering specific application requirements. While both materials offer commendable properties, each possesses distinct advantages. PA 11 polyamide stands out for its smooth surface finish, making it ideal for applications where aesthetic appeal is paramount. On the other hand, PA 12 polyamide boasts excellent heat resistance, catering to scenarios demanding superior thermal performance.Engineers and purchasers in the manufacturing industry, encompassing fields like automotive, aerospace, and robotics, must weigh these factors when selecting the most fitting material for their intended application. The nuanced differences between PA 11 and PA 12 empower decision-makers to tailor their choices based on the precise needs of their projects, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.</section>

This article aims to examine the differences between PA 11 and PA 12. Despite their chemical similarity, these two polymers tend to produce different outcomes and end parts.

PA11 vs. PA12: What Are the Differences?

Xenoma Inc., also known as "Xenoma," won the top award at "KUMIHIMO Tech Camp with Murata" in FY2023. KUMIHIMO is a co-creation project that seeks ideas using Murata's hardware and aims to turn them into reality together with Murata Manufacturing. The theme for Xenoma's entry was a smart apparel item called a wearable phono-electrocardiograph. Murata spoke with Mr. Amimori, Xenoma's Co-Founder and CEO, about how his company came up with the idea, its encounter with Murata, the background to entering KUMIHIMO, its collaboration with Murata, and other matters.<h2 id="isPasted">What Is Xenoma?</h2>Murata:&nbsp;Please tell us the background to Xenoma's establishment, your internal structure, and the products you have so far developed and sold.Mr. Amimori: Xenoma was established as a spin-off from the University of Tokyo and JST ERATO Someya Bio-Harmonized Electronics Project in November 2015. We have developed and commercialized a number of products based on that project's stretchable electronics technology. Those products include the "e-skin ECG" smart apparel item that is comfortable to wear and that allows patients to obtain electrocardiograms by attaching and detaching it themselves; "e-skin MEVA" that simply realizes high-precision motion capture; and the "e-skin EMStyle" EMS training wear item that optimizes fitness by electrically stimulating the muscles. Of these products, e-skin ECG realizes electrocardiogram testing for 24 hours at home by Xenoma mailing it to the patient's home and the patient then returning it to Xenoma after the test.Our employees include hardware electronic circuit engineers; software engineers who create smartphone apps and who build servers; product designers who make the cases; and mechanical designers who are in charge of the mechanism design. Furthermore, clinical laboratory technicians and other specialists in the medical field participate as staff.<h2 id="isPasted">Thoughts on Winning the Top Award at KUMIHIMO</h2>Murata: Congratulations on winning the top award at KUMIHIMO. Can you please give your comments as Xenoma on your motivation for entering KUMIHIMO, your thoughts on winning the top award, and the reason for that?Mr. Amimori: We did not come up with the wearable phono-electrocardiograph to enter KUMIHIMO; rather, it was a project we had in mind to undertake originally. We felt that the sensor presented at KUMIHIMO was essential to our project, so we entered the contest. We were extremely honored to win the top award despite those circumstances. We plan to use the award money to purchase the equipment to promote the development of the wearable phono-electrocardiograph. We also feel that this opportunity will lead to the further development of our connections.This was a project we had long envisioned. Therefore, we had completed the specifications of the product we would develop and the image of the process for commercializing it. In other words, it was not a project for entering KUMIHIMO; rather, it was a project that we had thoroughly considered developing and commercializing ourselves. I think that is why we won the award.<h2 id="isPasted">Development of the Wearable Phono-electrocardiograph</h2>Murata: Please tell us what led you to work on developing the wearable phono-electrocardiograph, the background and reasons to choosing Murata's acoustic sensors, and the current status of your collaboration with Murata.Mr. Amimori:&nbsp;The wearable phono-electrocardiograph is a garment that incorporates an electrocardiograph and a phonocardiograph. You can obtain both electrocardiogram and phonocardiogram data just by wearing this garment. It is possible to take an electrocardiogram and phonocardiogram at home after a medical examination. As the garment allows you to take the test at home, it is possible to increase the test frequency. Accordingly, we believe it is the perfect testing tool for preventing cardiovascular diseases.There are two main categories of cardiovascular disease: arrhythmia and ischemia. In general, these diseases are diagnosed separately using a Holter electrocardiogram test for arrhythmia and an echocardiographic test for ischemia. However, in fact, the rate of detection is higher when testing for both these diseases at the same time. Accordingly, we wondered whether it would be possible to test for both arrhythmia and ischemia at once by equipping a sensor capable of detecting heart sounds to the e-skin ECG for electrocardiogram tests that we have already commercialized.<h2 id="isPasted">Encounter with Murata's Acoustic Sensors</h2>Murata: Please tell us about what led you to come up with the idea to use an acoustic sensor in the wearable phono-electrocardiograph and its prospects for the future.We have a long history of exchanging information in the field of electronic components with Murata. We considered adopting a highly sensitive and thin sensor capable of detecting pressing force at first for the wearable phono-electrocardiograph. However, we had the opportunity to speak with those from Murata at CEATEC* held in October 2023, and were told that acoustic sensors may be more suitable, and that this was the theme sought for KUMIHIMO. That led us to enter KUMIHIMO.*CEATEC is an exhibition where electronics- and IT-related organizations and companies participate to present cutting-edge products and technologies.We have already received the acoustic sensors since winning the award. We have realized the technology up to the point where we can incorporate phonocardiograms into a PC wirelessly or via a cable. The acoustic sensor collects data on sounds (heart sound data) transmitted through the skin. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure it is possible for anyone to collect heart sound data accurately in the future. We have set a target of first making it so that healthy individuals can collect accurate heart sound data within the year.<h2 id="isPasted">Collaboration with Murata</h2>Murata: You have experience collaborating with many companies of different fields, cultures, and scales, and giving presentations in collaborative projects. Please tell us about the differences with those companies and Murata and KUMIHIMO.Mr. Amimori: We have had a relationship with Murata for four to five years already. We have continued to exchange information with Murata during that time. In particular, Murata's advice on the usage methods and functions of sensors that we are not involved with has been extremely helpful. In fact, there are few companies like this. I feel that this is because Murata respects Xenoma. Furthermore, points such as the fact the person in charge from when our relationship started is still involved with us give us a great sense of security in communication.Something I learned about for the first time is that I feel Murata has a culture that enables a wide range of technical assets to be openly used. That was extremely interesting. For example, sensor circuit information is necessary when connecting the provided sensors to Xenoma's system to retrieve signals. There are many cases in which other companies do not provide detailed sensor circuit specifications. In such cases, Xenoma will also make the interface parts. However, this means it is difficult to achieve optimal functionality. In that respect, Murata proactively provides us with prototypes and technical information. As a result, we can develop products with higher functionality and greater convenience because we know the details of the sensor circuits. I think this is a very attractive point in our collaboration with Murata.We have no concerns about Murata Manufacturing's technical capabilities. In addition, Murata has been closely communicating with us so far. Therefore, we also have no anxiety of being left to do everything ourselves, as is common with large companies. This project involves development. Accordingly, we may ask for improvements to be made in terms of performance. Nevertheless, I feel we can move forward together as long as that is within the scope of what is realistically possible.<h2>Final thoughts</h2>Xenoma's business ranges from areas of expertise in medicine including electrocardiograms and phonocardiograms to involvement in skeletal and muscular functions such as motion capture and EMS training. Xenoma encountered Murata's acoustic sensors and won the top award at KUMIHIMO. This symbolizes the medicine-engineering collaboration in which Xenoma works on smart apparel and Murata provides the technology such as the hardware. It is not just a medicine-engineering collaboration though; we are joining forces in terms of the knowledge and technologies in our respective fields. This is the appeal of KUMIHIMO. I feel this is also the reason why Xenoma won the top award at KUMIHIMO.Learn more at&nbsp;<a href="https://protect.checkpoint.com/v2/r06/___https://xenoma.com/en/___.ZXV3MjpwdWJsaXRlazpjOmc6YTYzODA4ZWRjYjk1NGY0MWEwMTYzYmQ3M2VkYTA3NGQ6Nzo5YWUyOmY5YjNmYjBmOGRhNWJmMTAyMTIxNGNjYWZiMzhlMDI2MzY5MmI1MGYzNjU1MzdiOTEwMTMwZWI4NDk5MWNmMTg6aDpUOkY" title="Protected by Check Point: https://xenoma.com/en/" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://protect.checkpoint.com/v2/r06/___https://xenoma.com/en/___.ZXV3MjpwdWJsaXRlazpjOmc6YTYzODA4ZWRjYjk1NGY0MWEwMTYzYmQ3M2VkYTA3NGQ6Nzo5YWUyOmY5YjNmYjBmOGRhNWJmMTAyMTIxNGNjYWZiMzhlMDI2MzY5MmI1MGYzNjU1MzdiOTEwMTMwZWI4NDk5MWNmMTg6aDpUOkY&source=gmail&ust=1737197445904000&usg=AOvVaw1bKZp26gxs1h_pDDVu-W2p" id="isPasted">Xenoma Inc. | Smart Apparel Company</a>

KUMIHIMO is a co-creation project focused on sourcing innovative ideas that utilize Murata's hardware. Xenoma's award-winning entry in this initiative was a smart apparel piece termed a "wearable phono-electrocardiograph."

Taking on the Challenge of Preventive Medicine through Co-creation with Acoustic Sensors

As computer chips continue to get smaller and more complex, the ultrathin metallic wires that carry electrical signals within these chips have become a weak link. Standard metal wires get worse at conducting electricity as they get thinner, ultimately limiting the size, efficiency, and performance of nanoscale electronics.In a <a href="https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.adq7096" data-extlink="">paper</a> published Jan. 3 in Science, Stanford researchers show that niobium phosphide can conduct electricity better than copper in films that are only a few atoms thick. Moreover, these films can be created and deposited at sufficiently low temperatures to be compatible with modern computer chip fabrication. Their work could help make future electronics more powerful and more energy efficient.“We are breaking a fundamental bottleneck of traditional materials like copper,” said<a href="https://profiles.stanford.edu/asir" data-extlink="">&nbsp;Asir Intisar Khan</a>, who received his doctorate from Stanford and is now a visiting postdoctoral scholar and first author on the paper. “Our niobium phosphide conductors show that it’s possible to send faster, more efficient signals through ultrathin wires. This could improve the energy efficiency of future chips, and even small gains add up when many chips are used, such as in the massive data centers that store and process information today.”<h2>A new class of conductors</h2>Niobium phosphide is what researchers call a topological semimetal, which means that the whole material can conduct electricity, but its outer surfaces are more conductive than the middle. As a film of niobium phosphide gets thinner, the middle region shrinks but its surfaces stay the same, allowing the surfaces to contribute a greater share to the flow of electricity and the material as a whole to become a better conductor. Traditional metals like copper, on the other hand, become worse at conducting electricity once they are thinner than about 50 nanometers.The researchers found that niobium phosphide became a better conductor than copper at film thicknesses below 5 nanometers, even when operating at room temperature. At this size, copper wires struggle to keep up with rapid-fire electrical signals and lose a lot more energy to heat.“Really high-density electronics need very thin metal connections, and if those metals are not conducting well, they are losing a lot of power and energy,” said<a href="https://profiles.stanford.edu/epop" data-extlink="">&nbsp;Eric Pop</a>, the Pease-Ye Professor in the School of Engineering, a professor of electrical engineering, and senior author on the paper. “Better materials could help us spend less energy in small wires and more energy actually doing computation.”<img src="https://s3-us-west-1.amazonaws.com/wevolver-project-images/froala%2F1736817677357-nbpconductors_schematic_1500_1_0.jpg.webp" style="width: 100%px;" class="fr-fic fr-dib">A film a few atoms thick of non-crystalline niobium phosphide conducts better through the surface to make the material, as a whole, a better conductor. | Il-Kwon Oh / Asir KhanMany researchers have been working to find better conductors for nanoscale electronics, but so far the best candidates have had extremely precise crystalline structures, which need to be formed at very high temperatures. The niobium phosphide films made by Khan and his colleagues are the first examples of non-crystalline materials that become better conductors as they get thinner.“It has been thought that if we want to leverage these topological surfaces, we need nice single-crystalline films that are really hard to deposit,” said Akash Ramdas, a doctoral student at Stanford and co-author on the paper. “Now we have another class of materials – these topological semimetals – that could potentially act as a way to reduce energy usage in electronics.”Because the niobium phosphide films don’t need to be single crystals, they can be created at lower temperatures. The researchers deposited the films at 400 degrees Celsius, a temperature that is low enough to avoid damaging or destroying existing silicon computer chips.“If you have to make perfect crystalline wires, that’s not going to work for nanoelectronics,” said<a href="https://profiles.stanford.edu/yuri-suzuki" data-extlink="">&nbsp;Yuri Suzuki</a>, the Stanley G. Wojcicki Professor in the&nbsp;<a href="https://humsci.stanford.edu/" data-extlink="">School of Humanities and Sciences</a>, a professor of applied physics and co-author on the paper. “But if you can make them amorphous or slightly disordered and they still give you the properties you need, that opens the door to potential real-world applications.”<h2>Enabling future nanoelectronics</h2>Although niobium phosphide films are a promising start, Pop and his colleagues don’t expect them to suddenly replace copper in all computer chips – copper is still a better conductor in thicker films and wires. But niobium phosphide could be used for the very thinnest connections, and it paves the way for research into conductors made of other topological semimetals. The researchers are already looking into similar materials to see if they can improve niobium phosphide’s performance.“For this class of materials to be adopted in future electronics, we need them to be even better conductors,” said Xiangjin Wu, a doctoral student at Stanford and co-author on the paper. “To that end, we are exploring alternative topological semimetals.”Pop and his team are also working on turning their niobium phosphide films into narrow wires for additional testing. They want to determine how reliable and effective the material could be in real-world applications.“We’ve taken some really cool physics and ported it into the applied electronics world,” Pop said. “This kind of breakthrough in non-crystalline materials could help address power and energy challenges in both current and future electronics.”<hr>Pop is also professor, by courtesy, of materials science and engineering in the School of Engineering and of applied physics in the School of Humanities and Sciences. He is the faculty co-director of<a href="https://systemx.stanford.edu/" data-extlink="">&nbsp;Stanford SystemX</a>&nbsp;and a senior fellow of the<a href="https://energy.stanford.edu/" data-extlink="">&nbsp;Precourt Institute for Energy</a>.Suzuki is also professor, by courtesy, of materials science and engineering in the School of Engineering and is the director of<a href="https://snsf.stanford.edu/" data-extlink="">&nbsp;Stanford Nano Shared Facilities</a>&nbsp;and a member of<a href="http://biox.stanford.edu/" data-extlink="">&nbsp;Stanford Bio-X</a>.Additional Stanford co-authors of this research are Krishna Saraswat, the Ricky/Nielsen Professor in the School of Engineering; Felipe H. da Jornada, assistant professor of materials science and engineering; and graduate student Emily Lindgren.Other co-authors of this work are from Ajou University, Korea Electronics Technology Institute, and IBM T.J. Watson Research Center.

A patterned chip with Hall bar devices of ultrathin niobium phosphide film. | Asir Khan / Eric Pop

Researchers at Stanford Engineering have developed an ultrathin material that conducts electricity better than copper and could enable more energy-efficient nanoelectronics.

A new ultrathin conductor for nanoelectronics

Warping occurs when 3D printed parts curl away from the build plate

Warping is typically caused by poor bed adhesion and inconsistent printing temperatures. Here’s how to fix the 3D printing problem.

3D Print Warping (PLA, PETG, ABS): 6 Simple Fixes

LGA uses flat pads for connections, while BGA relies on solder balls for permanent mounting. This guide compares their thermal performance, electrical traits, reliability, and assembly pros and cons to help you choose the best IC package for your needs.

LGA vs BGA How to Select the Best IC Package for Your Design

This article explores the principles, methods, and real-world applications of the solderability test, offering insights into how it enhances quality assurance across modern electronics manufacturing processes!

Solderability Test - Principles, Methods, and Applications in Electronics Manufacturing

Is soldering paste the same as flux? This technical article clarifies the differences for electronics engineers, covering their functionalities and practical implementations in both manual soldering (repairs, prototyping) and automated soldering (SMT reflow assembly)

Is Soldering Paste the Same as Flux? Differences Explained for Electronics Engineers

Here’s what you need to know about recycling PLA 3D printer filament and cutting back on 3D printing plastic waste.


PLA Recycling: Can PLA 3D Printer Filament be Recycled?

ABS can endure moderate temperatures before it melts

ABS is a widely used 3D printing filament with good impact resistance and flexural strength. It also exhibits moderate heat resistance, making it a go-to material for mid-temperature 3D printing applications.

Materials

Technical Guides

3D Print Warping (PLA, PETG, ABS): 6 Simple Fixes

LGA vs BGA How to Select the Best IC Package for Your Design

Solderability Test - Principles, Methods, and Applications in Electronics Manufacturing...

Is Soldering Paste the Same as Flux? Differences Explained for Electronics Engineers...

PLA Recycling: Can PLA 3D Printer Filament be Recycled?

ABS Heat Resistance and Other Material Properties