Researchers in the Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s Grainger College of Engineering have developed an innovative method for creating fine, soft fibres similar to those found in nature usingembedded 3D-printing. Biomimicry researchers are constantly trying to find new ways to produce and replicate the various … [Read more...] about New 3D printing method replicates super-fine natural fibres
Materials
Pterosaur bones could inspire the future of aerospace engineering
The microarchitecture of fossil pterosaur bones could hold the key to lighter, stronger materials for the next generation of aircraft, new research has found. Scientists from the University of Manchester used advanced X-ray imaging techniques to examine fossilised bones of the prehistoric flying reptile at the smallest scale, revealing hidden engineering solutions right in … [Read more...] about Pterosaur bones could inspire the future of aerospace engineering
Rapid Fusion to launch first UK-built large-format hybrid 3D printer
The first UK-built large-format hybrid 3D printer is due to be unveiled later this month. Its developer, Rapid Fusion, will showcase the printer, dubbed Medusa, at a special open day on 26 February at its Skypark R&D centre in Exeter. The company has tapped into a £1.2million grant from Innovate UK to develop, test, design and build the industrial 3D printer, which is … [Read more...] about Rapid Fusion to launch first UK-built large-format hybrid 3D printer
Engineers expand multi-material design possibilities
Engineering researchers at the US government’s Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) in California have used capillary action to achieve breakthroughs in multi-material additive manufacturing (3D printing). The LLNL team printed lattice structures with a series of custom-designed unit cells to selectively absorb fluid materials and precisely direct them into … [Read more...] about Engineers expand multi-material design possibilities
Storing carbon in buildings could help address climate change
Construction materials such as concrete and plastic have the potential to lock away billions of tonnes of carbon dioxide, according to a new study by civil engineers and earth systems scientists at the University of California, Davis and Stanford University. The study shows that, combined with steps to decarbonise the economy, storing CO2 in buildings could help the world … [Read more...] about Storing carbon in buildings could help address climate change