Articles tagged with "advanced-materials"
Static fire test of advanced solid rocket motor could help make lethal air-to-air weapon
Two American defense companies, Raytheon and Anduril, recently conducted a successful static fire test of an advanced solid rocket motor (SRM) featuring a Highly Loaded Grain (HLG) configuration. This test, part of a contract with the Air Force Research Laboratory Munitions Directorate, validated the performance of a heavy-wall SRM designed to enhance propulsion technology for air-to-air weapon systems. The HLG design, developed by Anduril using technology from Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake and supported technically by Raytheon, allows for significantly greater volumes of energetic propellant. This results in increased specific impulse and improved motor performance, translating into extended range and greater tactical advantages for U.S. and allied forces. Beyond the technical achievement, Raytheon emphasized that the test represents progress toward building a more robust and adaptable supply base for solid rocket motors to meet emerging national security needs. The collaboration with Anduril aligns with Raytheon’s composable weapons strategy, aiming to develop flexible missile
energysolid-rocket-motorpropulsion-technologyadvanced-materialsdefense-technologyrocket-manufacturingenergetic-propellantEurope’s first full design of commercial fusion power plant unveiled
Gauss Fusion, a Berlin-based company, has unveiled Europe’s first full conceptual design for a commercial fusion power plant, named GIGA. The Conceptual Design Report (CDR), spanning over a thousand pages, addresses all critical systems and industrial challenges necessary to transition fusion from scientific research to practical energy production. It covers the plant’s architecture, safety, system engineering, lifecycle operations, and radioactive waste management. The report represents three years of collaborative work by hundreds of European specialists, demonstrating that the technologies, materials, and supply chains required for fusion power are within reach. The CDR also establishes a cost and schedule framework for building the first commercial fusion reactor, estimating an investment of €15-18 billion to achieve operational status by the mid-2040s. Gauss Fusion emphasizes a rigorous project management approach, including risk management and performance metrics, to improve outcomes. Key industrial challenges addressed include developing a closed tritium fuel cycle and mastering advanced superconducting magnets and materials capable of withstanding extreme
energyfusion-powercommercial-fusion-plantsuperconducting-magnetsadvanced-materialsenergy-technologyindustrial-challengesSwiss scientists' new 3D printing method delivers ultra-strong materials
Researchers at EPFL have developed a novel 3D printing method that creates ultra-strong metal and ceramic materials by growing them inside a water-based hydrogel scaffold. Unlike traditional approaches that harden resin pre-infused with metal precursors using light, this technique first prints a simple hydrogel structure, which is then infused repeatedly with metal salts and chemically converted into metal-containing nanoparticles. This post-printing material infusion allows for high metal concentrations and results in dense, intricate architectures with significantly improved mechanical properties. The new materials can withstand pressures up to 20 times greater than those produced by previous methods while exhibiting only about 20% shrinkage compared to the typical 60-90%. The team demonstrated the method’s versatility by fabricating complex gyroid lattice structures from iron, silver, and copper, which are strong yet lightweight. This approach is promising for advanced applications requiring complex 3D architectures that combine strength and low weight, such as sensors, biomedical devices, and energy conversion or storage technologies. The
3D-printingadvanced-materialsadditive-manufacturingceramicsmetalsenergy-technologiesbiomedical-devicesGE-Hitachi unveils advanced nuclear fuel for boiling water reactors
Global Nuclear Fuel (GNF), a GE Vernova-led alliance with Hitachi, has introduced GNF4, a next-generation nuclear fuel designed for boiling water reactors (BWRs) in the US. Scheduled for initial deployment in 2026 and full availability by 2030, GNF4 features an advanced 11×11 fuel matrix that increases the heat-generating surface area, enhancing uranium utilization and boosting power output. The design incorporates two key components approved by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC): Ziron Cladding, which offers superior corrosion resistance and reduces hydrogen pickup compared to traditional Zircaloy 2 cladding, and Aluminosilicate Doped Uranium Dioxide Pellets, providing accident-tolerant protection against pellet-clad interaction (PCI). In addition to these innovations, GNF4 leverages proven technologies such as NSF Channel Material, a zirconium alloy that resists fuel channel distortion, and the Defender+ Debris Filter, which has a strong track
energynuclear-fuelboiling-water-reactorsadvanced-materialscorrosion-resistanceuranium-dioxide-pelletsfuel-assembly-designChina’s superconducting magnet hits 351,000 gauss, breaks world record
Chinese scientists at the Institute of Plasma Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (ASIPP) have set a new world record by generating a steady magnetic field of 351,000 gauss—over 700,000 times stronger than Earth’s geomagnetic field—using a fully superconducting magnet. This surpasses the previous record of 323,500 gauss and marks a significant advancement in superconducting magnet technology. The magnet was developed through collaboration with the Hefei International Applied Superconductivity Center, the Institute of Energy of the Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, and Tsinghua University. The breakthrough was achieved by employing high-temperature superconducting insert-coil technology nested coaxially with low-temperature superconducting magnets, ensuring mechanical stability and electromagnetic performance under extreme conditions. This achievement has important implications for accelerating the commercialization of advanced superconducting instruments such as nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometers used in medical imaging and chemical analysis. Moreover, the magnet supports critical technologies requiring strong and stable magnetic fields, including fusion magnet
energysuperconducting-magnetfusion-researchmagnetic-levitationpower-transmissionhigh-temperature-superconductorsadvanced-materialsVectis: US firm's stealthy autonomous drone to conduct precision strike
Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works division has announced the development of Vectis, a stealthy, autonomous, and lethal collaborative combat aircraft (CCA) designed to enhance air dominance for the US and allied militaries. Scheduled for its first flight in 2027, Vectis is a large, reusable Category 5 drone with customizable capabilities to adapt to evolving threat environments. It will perform precision strikes, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), electronic warfare, and both offensive and defensive counter-air missions. The drone is engineered for extended range operations across multiple theaters, including the Indo-Pacific, Europe, and Central Command areas, and is intended to operate both independently and in integrated teams with crewed aircraft like the F-35. Vectis embodies Lockheed Martin’s expertise in fighter development, autonomous systems, and open mission architectures, aiming to deliver a highly survivable, multi-role platform at an aggressive cost and rapid development timeline. The drone will seamlessly integrate with fifth-generation and next-generation aircraft,
robotautonomous-dronemilitary-technologyprecision-strikeunmanned-aerial-vehicleadvanced-materialsintegrated-systemsEngineers use electric fields to form circuits beyond silicon limits
Researchers have developed a novel method to fabricate atomically thin logic circuits using two-dimensional (2D) semiconductors, addressing the limitations of traditional silicon-based transistor scaling. Conventional silicon fabrication struggles at nanoscale dimensions due to electrical interference, leakage, and complex manufacturing, prompting exploration of alternative materials like molybdenum disulfide (MoS₂) and tungsten diselenide (WSe₂). These 2D materials offer efficient charge transport and tunable transistor types but have been difficult to integrate into circuits at scale because existing methods rely on high temperatures, vacuum environments, or manual placement, which hinder consistent, large-scale production. The new approach combines solution-based electrochemical exfoliation to produce large, stable 2D nanosheets with electric-field-guided assembly to precisely position n-type MoS₂ and p-type WSe₂ between electrodes without lithography or high-temperature steps. Electrochemical exfoliation uses voltage to insert ions between crystal layers, gently separating them into micron-scale nanosheets suspended
materials2D-semiconductorselectric-field-assemblynanosheetstransistor-fabricationadvanced-materialssemiconductor-technologyAvatr Vision Xpectra debuts with AI vortex hub and glass cabin
The Avatr Vision Xpectra concept, unveiled at IAA Mobility 2025 in Munich, showcases the future design and technology direction of the Changan-owned luxury EV brand. Measuring 5.8 meters in length, it surpasses many flagship sedans, including the Rolls-Royce Phantom, emphasizing its imposing presence. The vehicle features a striking diamond-cut exterior with sharp, faceted surfaces and wide fenders, embodying Avatr’s “Energy Force” design language. A key highlight is its expansive prismatic glass cabin that blurs the line between interior and exterior, flooding the minimalist interior with natural light and enhancing the futuristic aesthetic. The concept also incorporates back-hinged rear doors without B-pillars, creating a dramatic, open entry experience, though this design is not feasible for mass production due to safety constraints. Inside, the Vision Xpectra centers on an AI-powered “Vortex” hub that integrates lighting, sound, and interactive controls to create an “emotional intelligence
AIelectric-vehiclesmart-cabinautomotive-technologyadvanced-materialsenergy-efficient-designhuman-machine-interfaceJapan's huge railgun aims 20-megajoule blow at Mach 7 to zap missiles
Japan has publicly showcased its advanced electromagnetic railgun mounted on a real vessel for the first time, marking a significant milestone in its naval weapons development. Operated by the Fleet Research and Development Command and supported by the Acquisition Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) alongside Japan Steel Works, the railgun program began in 2016 with live-fire tests starting in 2022. The project addresses key technical challenges that have hindered similar efforts globally, such as maintaining projectile stability at hypersonic speeds and minimizing barrel wear caused by the intense forces generated during firing. The Japanese railgun prototype, installed on the ship Asuka, weighs approximately eight metric tons and features a six-meter barrel. It fires 40-millimeter steel projectiles weighing about 320 grams at speeds reaching Mach 6.5 (around 2,230 meters per second), with plans to increase the weapon’s charge energy from 5 megajoules to 20 megajoules. This contrasts with the U.S
energyelectromagnetic-railgunhypersonic-projectilesJapan-Steel-Worksnaval-technologyelectromagnetic-weaponsadvanced-materials110 MW: China rolls out giant gas turbine to power 3.6 million homes
China has introduced its first domestically developed 110-megawatt heavy-duty gas turbine, the Taihang 110 (AGT-110), marking a significant advancement in the country’s industrial capabilities. Developed by the Aero Engine Corporation of China (AECC), this turbine features multi-fuel capability, operating on oil, natural gas, and medium-to-low calorific gases, and is designed for combined heat and power generation, natural-gas peaking plants, and combined-cycle power stations. The AGT-110 boasts rapid start-up, high combined-cycle thermal efficiency, and low maintenance needs. It can integrate with renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydropower, and is expected to reduce carbon emissions by over 1 million tons annually compared to similar-capacity thermal units. The turbine’s output can supply electricity to between 10,000 and 15,000 households daily. The development of the Taihang 110 represents a major industrial milestone for China, demonstrating breakthroughs in turbine
energygas-turbinecombined-cycle-powercarbon-emissions-reductionhydrogen-fueladvanced-materialspower-generationNine-metal MXene obliterates limits of 2D nanomaterial design
Scientists at Purdue University have achieved a breakthrough in two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials by synthesizing MXenes—ultrathin sheets just a nanometer thick—that incorporate up to nine different transition metals. This represents a significant advance beyond previous MXene designs, which typically involved fewer metals. By creating nearly 40 layered materials with varying metal combinations, the researchers explored how entropy (the tendency toward atomic disorder) competes with enthalpy (the drive for ordered atomic arrangements) in these complex structures. They found that while MXenes with fewer metals tend to form ordered layers, those with higher metal diversity exhibit “high-entropy” phases characterized by atomic disorder, a transition that is crucial for designing materials stable under extreme conditions. The team first synthesized layered “parent” MAX phases before converting them into MXenes to study their surface and electronic properties, linking atomic order-disorder transitions to functional behavior. This insight expands the family of 2D materials and their potential applications in demanding environments such
materialsnanomaterialsMXene2D-materialshigh-entropy-materialsadvanced-materialsenergy-storage-materialsShoucheng Holdings launches Robotics Advanced Materials Co. - The Robot Report
Shoucheng Holdings Ltd. is intensifying its robotics strategy by launching Shoucheng Robotics Advanced Materials Industrial Co., a new subsidiary focused on developing critical robotics components such as electronic skin, tendon cables, and lightweight PEEK composites. This move aims to fill key gaps in the robotics value chain and expand Shoucheng’s role from investment and application to encompassing materials, systems, and applications. The Hong Kong-based company, part of the Shougang Group, has also invested in several robotics firms including humanoid developer NOETIX Robotics Inc., Unitree, Galbot, Galaxea-AI, and Booster Robotics, while advancing large-scale robotics deployments in various sectors like automotive production, autonomous charging stations, and surgical applications. Financially, Shoucheng reported strong interim results for fiscal 2025, with revenue rising 36% year-over-year to HK$731 million (about $93 million USD) and net profit increasing 30% to HK$339 million ($43.4 million
roboticsadvanced-materialshumanoid-robotsPEEK-compositesrobotics-componentsrobotics-ecosystemShoucheng-HoldingsChinese scientists create nuclear battery with 3x better efficiency
Chinese scientists have developed an advanced nuclear battery featuring strontium-90 radio-photovoltaic cells (RPVCs) that deliver three times the energy efficiency of conventional designs and can operate reliably for at least 50 years. Led by researchers Haisheng San and Xin Li, the team addressed the limitations of traditional power sources—such as chemical batteries and fuel cells—that struggle with durability, maintenance, and continuous operation in extreme environments like space or deep-sea infrastructure. Their novel RPVC design uses a waveguide light concentration (WLC) structure combined with multilayer-stacked Cerium-doped gadolinium aluminum gallium garnet (GAGG: Ce) scintillation waveguides to convert radioactive energy into light, which is then efficiently converted into electricity by photovoltaic cells. Performance tests showed that a single RPVC unit achieved an efficiency of 2.96%, significantly surpassing existing RPVCs, with an output of 48.9 microwatts and multi-module setups reaching
energynuclear-batteryradio-photovoltaic-cellslong-term-powerradiation-resistancebattery-efficiencyadvanced-materialsCadillac Reveals Elevated Velocity Crossover Concept - CleanTechnica
Cadillac has unveiled the Elevated Velocity concept, an all-electric, high-performance 2+2 crossover that extends the brand’s V-Series legacy into the electric luxury segment. Designed to deliver exhilarating performance both on-road and off-grid, the concept combines extreme power, advanced technology, and bespoke luxury craftsmanship. Its elevated platform and 24-inch wheels are engineered for challenging terrains, including extreme desert environments, while maintaining a refined driving experience. The design also hints at future Cadillac styling directions. The Elevated Velocity concept integrates innovative user experience modes that blend technology with purposeful design. "Welcome Mode" features illuminated interiors and dramatic gull-wing doors, creating an inviting atmosphere. "Elevate Mode" transforms the vehicle into an autonomous recovery space with retractable controls, ambient lighting, and biometric feedback to optimize occupant performance and relaxation. "Velocity Mode" focuses on driving exhilaration, with cool white lighting, backlit doors, and an augmented reality heads-up display providing key performance data. These modes underscore Cadillac’s “Art of
electric-vehiclesautomotive-technologyenergy-storageautonomous-drivingadvanced-materialsIoT-in-vehiclessmart-car-technologyUS lab tests GE Vernova nuclear fuel after 6 years in commercial use
Scientists at the US Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) have begun analyzing advanced nuclear fuel rods developed by Global Nuclear Fuel (GNF), a GE Vernova-led joint venture with Hitachi Ltd., after six years of commercial reactor use. These high burnup fuel rods, designed to enhance nuclear reactor efficiency and reduce spent fuel waste, were manufactured at GNF’s Wilmington, NC facility and operated through extended cycles beyond current US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licensing limits. The examination at PNNL aims to assess the fuel and cladding performance after prolonged reactor exposure, supporting ongoing development under the DOE’s Accident Tolerant Fuel program. High burnup fuels utilize more fissile material, allowing reactors to operate longer and more efficiently while generating less nuclear waste, which improves fuel cycle economics and safety. The advanced fuel is expected to remain in reactor cores for extended periods, potentially enabling fuel cycle lengths of 36-48 months. GE Vernova plans to use this fuel design
energynuclear-fueladvanced-materialspower-plantsfuel-efficiencynuclear-energyGE-VernovaNew self-healing plastic outperforms steel in strength tests
US researchers from Texas A&M University and the University of Tulsa have developed a new recyclable carbon-fiber plastic composite called Aromatic Thermosetting Copolyester (ATSP) that exhibits self-healing properties and outperforms steel in strength tests. Led by Dr. Mohammad Naraghi and funded by the US Department of Defense, ATSP can repair cracks and deformations when heated, restoring or even improving its original strength. This adaptive material shows promise for critical applications in aerospace, defense, and automotive industries, where it can enhance safety by enabling on-demand healing of damaged components and potentially restoring vehicle shapes after collisions. ATSP combines the flexibility of thermoplastics with the stability of thermosets, and when reinforced with carbon fibers, it becomes several times stronger than steel while remaining lighter than aluminum. The material’s chemistry remains stable over multiple reshaping cycles, making it a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics by reducing waste without sacrificing durability. Laboratory tests demonstrated that ATSP could endure hundreds of stress and
materialsself-healing-plasticcarbon-fiber-compositeadvanced-materialsaerospace-materialssustainable-materialssmart-materialsUS firm teases potential successor to SR-71 Blackbird in new video
GE Aerospace has released a teaser video hinting at the development of a potential hypersonic successor to the iconic SR-71 Blackbird reconnaissance aircraft. The video showcases a conceptual rendering of a hypersonic jet powered by GE’s dual-mode ramjet (DMRJ) engines, which were first demonstrated in 2024. These engines utilize rotating detonation combustion (RDC) technology, enhancing fuel efficiency and thrust by harnessing detonation waves in an annular chamber. GE claims its DMRJ engine can achieve speeds exceeding Mach 10, significantly surpassing the SR-71’s top speed of Mach 3.2, suggesting a major leap in hypersonic aviation capabilities. The SR-71 Blackbird, operational from 1966 to 1990, was renowned for its high-altitude, high-speed reconnaissance missions, but modern threats like hypersonic missiles traveling above Mach 5 require next-generation aircraft. While Lockheed Martin is already developing the SR-72, an unm
energyaerospacehypersonic-technologydual-mode-ramjetpropulsion-systemsGE-Aerospaceadvanced-materialsHow Venus Aerospace is engineering the first Mach 9 passenger jet
Venus Aerospace is pioneering the development of the first Mach 9 hypersonic passenger jet, the Stargazer M4, leveraging innovative propulsion technology centered on rotating detonation rocket engines (RDRE) combined with air-breathing ramjets. Hypersonic flight, defined as speeds above Mach 5, could drastically reduce global travel times to under four hours, effectively collapsing global distances. Venus Aerospace CEO Sassie Duggleby highlights that this technology could enable passengers to circumnavigate the globe within a single day, marking a transformative shift in aviation. The RDRE technology, originally conceptualized in the 1950s through Soviet research, utilizes detonation waves traveling around an annular combustion chamber to burn fuel more efficiently than conventional rocket engines that rely on deflagration. Advances in computational modeling, materials science, and experimental testing—such as NASA’s 2023 successful 251-second test firing of a 3D-printed RDRE producing 5,800 lbs of thrust—have
energyaerospace-engineeringhypersonic-flightrotating-detonation-engineramjet-technologypropulsion-systemsadvanced-materialsWest Gate’s 4th Cohort Innovators Pursue Advanced Energy Applications Throughout Energy Landscape - CleanTechnica
The article highlights the fourth cohort of West Gate, NREL’s Lab-Embedded Entrepreneurship Program, which supports innovators developing advanced energy technologies aimed at creating resilient, secure, and affordable energy systems. Supported by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Technologies Office, the program embeds entrepreneurs at NREL for two years, granting them access to research resources and entrepreneurial training to help de-risk their innovations. The current cohort includes James Clegern of KineticCore Solutions, Kian Lopez of OsmoPure Technologies, Ying Sun of Rare Flora, and Ian Brownstein of XFlow Energy, each working on diverse technologies from flywheel energy storage to water filtration and rare earth element extraction. A key innovation presented is KineticCore Solutions’ redesigned flywheel energy storage system. Traditional flywheels face limitations in energy capacity due to their cylindrical shape and mass requirements, which increase costs. Clegern’s team developed a carbon composite flywheel with an ovoid, flying saucer-like shape that can spin
energyenergy-storageflywheel-technologyadvanced-materialsclean-energyenergy-innovationcarbon-compositesSOSV bets plasma will change everything from semiconductors to spacecraft
SOSV, a venture capital firm, is making a significant bet on plasma technology, planning to invest in over 25 plasma-related startups within the next five years. The firm is also launching a new Hax lab in collaboration with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority and the U.S. Department of Energy’s Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory to foster innovation in this space. Plasma, a state of matter created by compressing fuel until atoms fuse and release energy, holds promise far beyond fusion energy alone. Duncan Turner, SOSV’s general partner, highlights that the best applications of plasma are yet to be discovered, indicating vast untapped potential. Beyond fusion, SOSV has already invested in companies like Yplasma, which utilizes plasma actuators for cooling data center chips and optimizing airflow over wind turbine blades. Plasma’s role in semiconductor manufacturing could lead to breakthroughs in materials and processes, while plasma thrusters offer more fuel-efficient propulsion for spacecraft. Additionally, plasma technology could enable the production of valuable chemicals such as ammonia
energyplasma-technologyfusion-energysemiconductor-manufacturingspacecraft-propulsionrenewable-energyadvanced-materialsUS firm forges breakthrough nuclear fuel for longer-lasting reactors
US company Lightbridge has made a significant advancement in nuclear fuel technology by successfully fabricating enriched uranium-zirconium alloy samples, which form the core material for its next-generation Lightbridge Fuel product. This development marks a key milestone as the company moves beyond earlier work with depleted uranium to using enriched uranium, bringing the advanced fuel closer to commercial deployment. The proprietary fabrication process, previously validated with depleted uranium at Idaho National Laboratory (INL), has now been applied to enriched uranium, moving toward full-scale production. The fabricated alloy samples will undergo irradiation testing at INL’s Advanced Test Reactor under a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) between Lightbridge and INL. These tests simulate reactor conditions to assess the alloy’s behavior over time, providing critical performance data needed for regulatory approval. Both Lightbridge and INL emphasize the importance of this collaboration in advancing safer, more efficient nuclear fuel technology. Successful testing and regulatory clearance could enable widespread adoption of Lightbridge Fuel in commercial reactors, potentially enhancing safety
energynuclear-fueluranium-zirconium-alloyLightbridgeIdaho-National-Laboratoryadvanced-materialsreactor-technologyUK’s sixth-gen stealth fighter emerges as next-gen war machine
The UK’s Combat Air Flying Demonstrator marks the nation’s first piloted supersonic fighter aircraft developed in 40 years, spearheaded by the Ministry of Defence in partnership with BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, and MBDA UK. Currently, two-thirds of the aircraft’s structural weight—including its main body, wings, and tail fins—is in production at BAE Systems’ Lancashire facilities, utilizing advanced manufacturing techniques such as robotic assembly, 3D printing, and digital twins. This demonstrator aims to test and mature technologies critical for a future sixth-generation stealth fighter jet under the Global Combat Air Programme, emphasizing stealth capabilities, advanced design approaches, and streamlined production processes. Extensive simulator flights totaling over 300 hours have allowed engineers and test pilots from BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, and the RAF to evaluate flight control systems and gather performance data ahead of the aircraft’s maiden flight. Collaborative efforts have also included high-speed ejection seat trials with Martin Baker and aerodynamic engine testing
roboticsdigital-manufacturingadvanced-materialsaerospace-engineeringstealth-technology3D-printingdigital-twinsEurope’s first hydrogen hypersonic jet aims to fly at Mach 5 speed
The European Space Agency (ESA) has launched the Invictus research program in partnership with UK-based Frazer-Nash, aiming to develop Europe’s first hydrogen-fueled hypersonic jet capable of flying at Mach 5 (3,836 mph). This fully reusable experimental vehicle will utilize a precooled air-breathing propulsion system, building on technology from ESA’s previous SABRE engine studies led by Reaction Engines Ltd. The program, funded through ESA’s General Support Technology Program (GSTP) and Technology Development Element (TDE), seeks to overcome challenges such as extreme heat from shock and friction at hypersonic speeds, enabling horizontal takeoff and sustained flight at Mach 5. The consortium also includes Spirit Aero Systems and Cranfield University, with a preliminary full flight system design targeted within 12 months. Invictus aims to provide a testbed for future hypersonic technologies relevant to aerospace, defense, and space access, marking a significant step toward reusable spaceplanes that can take
energyhydrogen-propulsionhypersonic-technologyaerospace-engineeringESAsustainable-aviationadvanced-materialsCodalunga Speedster brings Pagani’s V12 legacy to an open-top form
Pagani has unveiled the Huayra Codalunga Speedster, an open-top evolution of its 14-year-old Huayra Codalunga model, maintaining the signature 5.98-liter twin-turbo V12 engine developed with Mercedes-AMG. Producing 864 horsepower and 1,100 Nm of torque, the car offers a choice between a 7-speed automated manual transmission and a pure manual gearbox, emphasizing driver engagement. The Speedster’s design draws inspiration from 1950s and ’60s racing cars, blending performance with aesthetic elegance through features like a new monocoque structure, integrated headlights, a lower-profile windshield, and a panoramic hardtop that seamlessly connects the windshield to the tail. The vehicle’s exterior incorporates stylistic cues from post-war racing prototypes, including distinctive side windows with rounded rear edges and a rear end featuring a six-outlet exhaust system and suspended taillights. Internally, the cabin channels a 1960s vibe with semi-matte
materialsautomotive-materialscarbon-fiberenergy-efficiencyadvanced-materialslightweight-structuresautomotive-engineeringPhotos: 1000-pound 'Spaceshop' propels interstellar product delivery
Vollebak, in collaboration with SAGA Space Architects and Bang & Olufsen, has unveiled the "Spaceshop," a 1000-pound interstellar delivery vehicle that combines the functions of a spaceship and a mobile retail unit. Designed to envision the future of retail, the Spaceshop aims to bring products directly to consumers regardless of location, whether on Earth or in space. Constructed from aerospace-grade materials such as carbon, stainless steel, and anodized aluminum, the vehicle features durable exterior panels designed for global display tours. The design was led by Denmark-based SAGA Space Architects, known for their expertise in modular habitats for extreme environments, with aluminum panels processed at Bang & Olufsen’s Danish facility. The Spaceshop integrates high-fidelity audio technology from Bang & Olufsen, including eight powerful speakers capable of producing sound levels up to 120 decibels, enhancing its futuristic appeal. It serves as a unique platform to showcase innovative products like Vollebak’s Martian Aerogel
materialsaerospace-materialsanodized-aluminumcarbon-compositesarchitectural-engineeringinterstellar-deliveryadvanced-materials‘Shocking’ 3D resin may build soft robots with plastic-like strength
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed an innovative 3D printing technique that uses a custom liquid resin and a dual-light system to create objects combining both soft, rubber-like flexibility and hard, plastic-like strength within a single print. Inspired by natural structures such as human bones and cartilage, this method employs violet light to produce flexible material and ultraviolet light to harden the resin, enabling seamless transitions between soft and rigid zones without weak interfaces. This breakthrough addresses common issues in multi-material printing where different materials often fail at their boundaries. Demonstrations of the technology included printing a functional knee joint with soft ligaments and hard bones that moved smoothly together, as well as a stretchable electronic device with flexible and stiff areas to protect circuitry. The researchers were surprised by the immediate success and the stark contrast in mechanical properties achieved. An adjacent study published in ACS Central Science further highlights the potential of light-driven resin chemistry to advance additive manufacturing, offering faster production, higher resolution, and new design freedoms.
3D-printingsoft-roboticsadvanced-materialsresin-technologyflexible-electronicsdual-light-curingmaterial-scienceSupersonic travel is back: New Concorde to fly from US by 2026
The iconic Concorde supersonic airliner is set to make a commercial comeback by 2026, following the U.S. government's lifting of a longstanding ban on supersonic flights over land. Signed into law by President Donald Trump in June 2025, this legislative change aims to reestablish the U.S. as a leader in high-speed aviation. The new Concorde, developed by Fly-Concorde Limited, will feature modern engineering advancements, including a 50% lighter airframe made from advanced composite materials, the use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to reduce emissions by 80%, and the ability to fly at 60,000 feet—higher than conventional jets. This updated design promises quieter, safer, and more efficient supersonic travel, potentially cutting the New York to London flight time from over six hours to just two. The original Concorde, a product of a 1962 treaty between France and the UK, was an engineering marvel capable of flying at
energysustainable-aviation-fuelcomposite-materialssupersonic-travelaerospace-engineeringemissions-reductionadvanced-materialsNew stamp-like hard drive made from novel molecule can hold 3 TB data
Researchers from the Australian National University (ANU) and the University of Manchester have developed a novel single-molecule magnet capable of storing exceptionally large amounts of data in an ultra-compact form factor. This new molecule enables the creation of hard drives about the size of a postage stamp that can hold up to 3 terabytes of data—equivalent to roughly 500,000 TikTok videos or 40,000 copies of Pink Floyd’s "The Dark Side of the Moon" album. Unlike conventional magnetic materials that rely on clusters of atoms, these single-molecule magnets operate individually, allowing for ultra-high-density data storage in a fraction of the space. A key advancement in this research is the molecule’s ability to retain magnetic memory at temperatures around 100 Kelvin (-173°C), which is warmer than previous single-molecule magnets requiring about 80 Kelvin (-193°C). This improvement was achieved by arranging three atoms in a straight line stabilized by an alkene chemical group, enhancing storage capacity and stability.
materialsdata-storagesingle-molecule-magnetsmagnetic-materialsnanotechnologymolecular-electronicsadvanced-materialsChina advances next-gen lighting with more stable perovskite LEDs
Chinese researchers led by Professor Xiao Zhengguo at the University of Science and Technology of China have developed an innovative all-inorganic perovskite film that significantly enhances LED performance. By introducing specially selected compounds and applying a high-temperature annealing process, the team engineered perovskite films with larger crystal grains and fewer defects. This structural improvement facilitates better charge transport, resulting in LEDs with unprecedented brightness of 1.16 million nits and an extended operational lifespan exceeding 180,000 hours. These advancements overcome previous limitations where perovskite LEDs had short lifespans and low brightness, making them unsuitable for practical applications. The new perovskite LEDs also demonstrate a luminous efficiency surpassing 22%, comparable to current commercial display technologies, and brightness levels far exceeding typical OLED and LED screens, which usually peak at a few thousand nits. Such high brightness and durability make these LEDs promising for outdoor displays and specialized lighting requiring strong visibility. When operated at a standard brightness of 100
materialsperovskiteLED-technologyadvanced-materialsenergy-efficient-lightingnanomaterialsdisplay-technologyChina's fast, clean microrobot targets tiny fluid tasks in medicine
Researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the China Electric Power Research Institute have developed an advanced magnetic microrobot capable of manipulating tiny liquid droplets with unprecedented speed and precision. Utilizing a combination of neodymium magnetic particles, sugar, and a chemically stable polymer, the robot features a porous, hydrophilic surface that effectively attracts and controls fluids. Powered by strong neodymium magnets, this microrobot moves up to 20 times faster than previous models and can transport droplets nearly a milliliter in size, a significant capacity for microscale robotics. Its design emphasizes cleanliness and chemical stability, making it especially suitable for sensitive applications such as medical diagnostics and handling reactive chemicals. The microrobot demonstrates versatile fluid handling by merging droplets at low speeds to facilitate chemical reactions and splitting them at high speeds for diverse tasks. It operates effectively even in harsh chemical environments, including corrosive acids, without damage. This combination of speed, precision, and durability positions the microrobot as a valuable tool for automating small-scale chemical processes in laboratories, enhancing efficiency and safety, and potentially enabling minimally invasive medical procedures. The innovation addresses previous limitations in magnetic microrobotics, such as weak driving forces and contamination risks, through novel materials and engineering solutions.
microrobotsmagnetic-controlmedical-roboticsmicrofluidicsadvanced-materialschemical-stabilityprecision-roboticsInsects help scientists create powerful new materials from nanocarbons
Researchers at Japan’s RIKEN Pioneering Research Institute and Center for Sustainable Resource Science have developed an innovative technique called “in-insect synthesis,” which uses insects as living chemical reactors to create and modify complex nanocarbon molecules. Led by Kenichiro Itami, the team focused on tobacco cutworm caterpillars, leveraging their powerful digestive enzymes to perform precise chemical modifications that are difficult or inefficient in traditional laboratory settings. By feeding the caterpillars a nanocarbon molecule known as [6]MCPP, the insects converted it into a fluorescent derivative, [6]MCPP-oxylene, through an oxidation reaction catalyzed by two specific enzymes, CYP X2 and CYP X3. This enzymatic process was confirmed through advanced analytical techniques and genetic analysis, demonstrating a level of chemical precision not achievable by current lab methods. This breakthrough highlights the potential of using biological systems, such as insects, enzymes, and microbes, to manufacture advanced materials with high efficiency and specificity. The discovery that caterpillar enzymes can insert oxygen atoms into carbon–carbon bonds in nanocarbons opens new avenues for producing functional molecules for applications in aerospace, electronics, and battery technology. The research team envisions further optimization of this approach through genetic tools like CRISPR and directed evolution, enabling the programming of insects to synthesize a wide range of valuable compounds, from glowing sensors to pharmaceuticals. This novel strategy represents a paradigm shift in materials science, moving away from traditional chemical synthesis toward bioengineered production platforms.
materialsnanocarbonsinsect-enzymeschemical-synthesisadvanced-materialsnanotechnologybiotechnologyNext-gen nuclear reactors rely on solar salts for better heat control
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