As the world searches for ways to reduce the use of plastics such as single-use plastic bags, a novel study by Penn State researchers demonstrates a process to make paper bags stronger — especially when they get wet — to make them a more viable alternative.

Stronger paper bags, reused repeatedly then recycled for biofuel could be future

Researchers at Penn State found that users were more motivated to become active when a smartwatch app asked them to reflect on their activity levels than when the app reported their activity levels. Credit: Getty Images - neyro2008. All Rights Reserved.

In a new study published in the journal Health Psychology, 58 physically inactive young adults wore fitness tracking smartwatches for three months and were assigned goals to increase their activity levels.

Self-monitoring physical activity matters, according to smartwatch study

Furkan Turker, graduate student in the Department of Materials Sciences, works on a silicon carbide chip in the laboratory  Credit: Penn State / Penn State. Creative Commons

Advances in computing power over the decades have come thanks in part to our ability to make smaller and smaller transistors, a building block of electronic devices, but we are nearing the limit of the silicon materials typically used. A new technique for creating 2D oxide materials may pave the way for future high-speed electronics, according to an international team of scientists.

Two-dimensional oxides open door for high-speed electronics

A Penn State-led research team integrated four humidity sensors between the absorbent layers of a diaper to create a “smart diaper,” capable of detecting wetness and alerting for a change. Credit: Huanyu “Larry” Cheng/Penn State / Penn State. Creative Commons

While babies have a natural mechanism for alerting their parents that they need a diaper change, a new sensor developed by researchers at Penn State could help workers in daycares, hospitals and other settings provide more immediate care to their charges.

New sensor enables 'smart diapers,' range of other health monitors

When applied to a houseplant, a stretchy triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) sensor can detect an intruder passing through by sensing the wind the person creates. The sensor can then sound an alarm system or turn lights on in the house to deter the intruder. The combination of materials allows for the TENG sensor to deform and stretch as the plant leaf grows. Credit: Provided by Huanyu "Larry" Cheng . All Rights Reserved.

The popularity of wearable electronics has induced demand for their parts, including power sources such as triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs). Such power sources must be both stretchy and high-performance, holding up under various deformation conditions over hours of use. 