A study published in Nature has mapped millions of genes from deep-sea microorganisms collected at hydrothermal vents, methane seeps and deep-ocean trenches. The work revealed an unexpected level of genetic diversity, with researchers reporting that more than 60% of the proteins identified had not previously appeared in public DNA databases. Finding them was only part of the … [Read more...] about AI-driven analysis reveals new proteins from the deep ocean
The engineering behind the UK’s next generation of defence technology
Drones, autonomous vehicles and artificial intelligence are becoming an increasingly important part of modern defence, and the UK's latest Defence Investment Plan shows just how quickly these technologies are developing. Backed by more than £5 billion of investment in drones and autonomous systems over the next four years, the programme points to advances in engineering design, … [Read more...] about The engineering behind the UK’s next generation of defence technology
How nanobubble technology is changing water treatment
The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool in Washington, D.C., has recently been treated with nanobubble technology to address persistent algae growth, drawing attention to a water treatment method that is beginning to find wider applications in environmental engineering. While the project has put the technology in the spotlight, engineers have already been testing nanobubbles in … [Read more...] about How nanobubble technology is changing water treatment
University research develops adaptive metamaterial inspired by rice
Researchers at the University of Birmingham have uncovered an unexpected property of ordinary rice that has led to the development of a new type of mechanical metamaterial with potential applications in robotics, manufacturing and impact protection. The team found that, unlike most granular materials, rice becomes less resistant when compressed quickly. Sand, for example, … [Read more...] about University research develops adaptive metamaterial inspired by rice
Engineering safer buildings: The latest advances in earthquake-resistant design
The recent earthquakes in Venezuela, which caused widespread structural damage and left thousands affected, have once again highlighted the devastating impact seismic events can have on buildings and infrastructure. While earthquakes themselves cannot be prevented, engineers continue to develop new materials, structural systems and vibration-control technologies designed to … [Read more...] about Engineering safer buildings: The latest advances in earthquake-resistant design