Articles tagged with "composite-materials"
Edison's 1879 light bulb may have accidentally produced graphene
Researchers at Rice University, led by Professor James Tour, have discovered evidence that Thomas Edison may have accidentally produced graphene while developing his first light bulb in 1879. By replicating Edison’s original carbon-filament bulb design and applying similar electrical conditions, the team found that parts of the filament transformed into turbostratic graphene—a multi-layer form of graphene with randomly rotated layers valued for scalable production in energy storage and composite materials. This finding suggests that graphene, officially isolated only in 2004, may have been unintentionally created over a century earlier during Edison’s experiments. The study involved powering artisan-made Edison-style bulbs with a 110-volt direct current for about 20 seconds, closely mimicking the original setup. Analysis using optical microscopy and Raman spectroscopy confirmed the presence of turbostratic graphene on the filament surface, which changed from dark gray to a silvery metallic appearance. The researchers propose that the rapid heating of carbon-based filaments, similar to modern flash Joule heating methods used to produce
graphenematerials-scienceenergy-storagecarbon-filamentnanomaterialsconductive-materialscomposite-materialsRV Show Season Is Here, & Manufacturers Are Thinking About EVs - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica highlights the evolving landscape of the RV industry as manufacturers begin to prioritize efficiency, particularly in response to the challenges of towing with electric vehicles (EVs). Traditional RV construction methods are being replaced by innovative designs such as Liv’s 100% composite trailers, which eliminate wood to reduce weight and increase durability—critical factors for EV towing where every pound affects range. Additionally, aerodynamic designs like those from Bowlus demonstrate that streamlining trailers can significantly improve EV range, potentially more so than adding powered axles or extra batteries to trailers. The piece also underscores the practical challenges EV owners face when towing, especially given the current limitations of the charging infrastructure. Many new electric truck owners lack towing experience, and the design of EV charging stations—often requiring back-in parking—complicates charging while towing. Workshops like Ford’s Towing Boot Camp provide essential skills for these drivers, helping them manage trailer handling and charging logistics. Overall, the article suggests that while the RV industry is beginning
energyelectric-vehiclesEV-towingcomposite-materialsaerodynamicsbattery-efficiencyRV-industryNext-gen ‘Space Armor’ tiles to launch on SpaceX mission for next-gen debris defense
Atomic-6, a company specializing in advanced composite materials, is set to test its innovative Space Armor shield material in orbit for the first time through a collaboration with aerospace defense startup Portal Space Systems. The Space Armor tiles, designed as a lightweight and thin alternative to traditional metallic Whipple shields, will be installed on Portal’s Supernova spacecraft, which is scheduled to launch aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-18 rideshare mission in October 2026. Unlike Whipple shields that fragment debris upon impact, Space Armor absorbs and contains impacts, reducing secondary debris and enhancing spacecraft protection. The upcoming in-orbit test aims to validate installation procedures, on-orbit performance, and readiness for broader commercial and national security use. Space Armor’s hexagonal tiles, about three-quarters of an inch thick, have already passed successful hypervelocity impact tests simulating space debris collisions at speeds over 7 kilometers per second. Portal’s CEO, Jeff Thornburg, emphasized that Space Armor will enable their spacecraft to maintain sustained maneuver
materialscomposite-materialsspace-armororbital-debris-protectionspacecraft-shieldingaerospace-materialsmicrometeoroid-protection‘World’s strongest’ EV structural battery to be revealed at Davos 2026
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology are unveiling new data on a structural battery composite at the World Economic Forum in Davos 2026. This battery, previously named the top emerging technology of 2025, combines energy storage with mechanical load-bearing capabilities, allowing it to serve as both a battery and a structural component. The latest version approaches the energy density of traditional lithium-ion batteries while matching the mechanical stiffness of metals like aluminum and titanium. Its design uses carbon fiber for both electrodes, eliminating the need for heavy metal current collectors and reducing overall weight. Additionally, it employs a semi-solid electrolyte, enhancing safety by lowering risks of thermal runaway and fire compared to conventional liquid electrolytes. The technology holds significant promise for reducing weight and improving efficiency across various sectors. Immediate applications include lighter consumer electronics, drones, and handheld tools, while long-term goals target integration into automotive and aerospace structures to extend vehicle range and efficiency. For example, electric cars equipped with these batteries could potentially achieve up to 70%
energystructural-batterycomposite-materialslithium-ion-batterycarbon-fiberelectric-vehiclesenergy-storage1,000 times self-healing tech could extend aircraft life by centuries
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a novel self-healing composite material capable of repairing itself over 1,000 times, potentially extending the lifespan of critical infrastructure from decades to centuries. This innovation targets the longstanding issue of interlaminar delamination—a form of internal cracking that has limited the durability of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites used in aircraft, automobiles, wind turbines, and spacecraft. By integrating a 3D-printed thermoplastic healing agent and embedded carbon-based heater layers into conventional FRPs, the material becomes two to four times more resistant to delamination and can self-repair cracks when electrically heated, restoring its structural integrity. The composite was rigorously tested through 1,000 cycles of induced fractures followed by thermal healing over 40 days, demonstrating sustained fracture resistance well above that of unmodified composites. Although some gradual decline in healing efficiency occurs due to microscopic fiber wear and chemical changes, statistical modeling indicates the material remains structurally viable for centuries. This technology
materialsself-healing-materialscomposite-materialsfiber-reinforced-polymersaerospace-materials3D-printingcarbon-fiber-compositesRecyclable epoxy resin cuts plastic waste in planes and wind turbines
Scientists at Empa in Switzerland, led by Arvindh Sekar, have developed a novel recyclable epoxy resin that promises to significantly reduce plastic waste in industries such as aviation, automotive, and renewable energy. Traditional epoxy resins, widely used for their strength and durability in coatings, adhesives, and fiber-reinforced composites, are thermosets that cannot be remelted or reshaped after curing, leading to disposal primarily by incineration or landfill. The new resin incorporates a phosphorus-based polymer additive directly into the epoxy before curing, which not only imparts flame retardancy but also enables the cross-linked molecular structure to shift under heat, allowing the material to be ground into powder and reshaped multiple times through thermomechanical recycling without significant loss of mechanical strength. In addition to thermomechanical recycling, the epoxy resin can undergo chemical recycling to dissolve fiber-reinforced composites, such as carbon-fiber aircraft parts and wind turbine blades, enabling recovery of both fibers and over 90% of
materialsepoxy-resinrecyclable-polymersthermosetsflame-retardantscomposite-materialsrenewable-energy-materialsNew 3D-printed smart material lets ceramics bend to survive heavy loads
Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed a novel 3D-printed smart composite that enables traditionally brittle ceramics to bend, absorb energy, and endure heavy mechanical loads without cracking. Led by Associate Professor Hang Yu, the team embedded tiny shape-memory ceramic particles into metal using a solid-state additive friction stir deposition (AFSC) process, which fuses materials below their melting point under intense pressure. This approach produces a strong, defect-free composite that can undergo stress-induced phase transformations to dissipate energy, allowing the material to withstand tension, bending, and compression while maintaining full density in bulk form. This breakthrough overcomes a longstanding challenge in materials science, as shape-memory ceramics previously only functioned at microscopic scales due to their tendency to fracture when produced in bulk. The new composite’s multifunctionality and scalability open up promising applications across defense, aerospace, infrastructure, and high-performance sporting equipment, such as vibration damping in golf club shafts. Supported by the National Science Foundation and the US Army Research Laboratory, the research highlights
materials-science3D-printingsmart-materialsceramicscomposite-materialsadditive-manufacturingshape-memory-materialsWhy modular movement systems are the future of industrial operations
The article discusses the growing importance of modular movement systems in industrial operations, emphasizing their flexibility and adaptability in an environment where product lines and workflows change rapidly. Traditional fixed conveyors and rigid carts, designed for predictable workflows, are becoming obsolete as they cannot easily accommodate evolving operational needs. Modular systems, exemplified by TexTrack’s warehouse scooter, offer lightweight, reconfigurable platforms that separate the movement base from payload modules, allowing quick adjustments to different tasks such as picking, assembly, or replenishment without replacing the entire unit. This adaptability supports faster response to workflow changes and reduces downtime. A key advantage of modular systems lies in their focus on lifetime value rather than upfront cost. Using advanced composite manufacturing, TexTrack’s scooters are lighter, structurally strong, and feature components that can be individually replaced, significantly lowering repair time and costs over the equipment’s lifespan. This “replace, not rebuild” approach extends asset life and reduces operational interruptions. Additionally, modular platforms are well-suited for integration with emerging warehouse robotics
robotmodular-systemsindustrial-automationmaterial-handlingcomposite-materialswarehouse-technologyflexible-manufacturingUS restores $2 billion B-2 strategic bomber for just $23 million
Four years after a landing-gear failure caused severe damage to the B-2 Spirit bomber known as the Spirit of Georgia, the US Air Force and Northrop Grumman successfully completed an extensive, multiyear repair effort, returning the aircraft to flight on November 6. The incident began in September 2021 when a hydraulic issue led to a landing gear collapse on touchdown, causing structural damage to the left main landing gear bay and lower wing. Emergency crews quickly stabilized the aircraft, enabling detailed inspections that confirmed the extent of the damage and allowed for a one-time ferry flight to Northrop Grumman’s Palmdale facility for permanent repairs. The restoration process, costing just $23.7 million compared to the bomber’s $2 billion value, involved innovative solutions such as harvesting a composite skin panel from a test article to avoid fabricating new parts, and overcoming challenges like composite disbonds, fuel-tank contamination, and the inability to use autoclaves for repairs. The repair
energymaterialsaerospace-engineeringcomposite-materialsstructural-repairmilitary-technologyaircraft-maintenancePhotos: Encor reveals carbon Esprit restomod with reworked V8 power and only 50 units
Encor Designs has unveiled the Series I, a restomod of the 1975 Lotus Esprit that blends classic design with modern engineering and performance. Limited to just 50 handcrafted units, the Series I features a single-piece carbon-fiber body replacing the original fiberglass, delivering sharper edges and improved aerodynamics. The car is powered by a reworked Type 918 V8 engine producing 400 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque, paired with a strengthened five-speed Quaife manual transmission. Modern electronics, including a new ECU and keyless entry, enhance reliability and usability while preserving the analog driving experience. The interior maintains the original Esprit’s character with updated materials such as billet aluminum and carbon fiber, combined with contemporary amenities like a touchscreen and 360-degree parking camera. Suspension and braking systems have been upgraded with sport uprights, Bilstein dampers, Eibach springs, and AP Racing brakes, while hydraulic steering is tuned for precision. The car’s weight is kept under 2
materialscarbon-fiberautomotive-engineeringlightweight-materialscomposite-materialsenergy-efficiencyautomotive-technologySwiss scientists X-ray satellite to build better reusable designs
Swiss researchers at Empa’s Center for X-Ray Analytics have conducted a comprehensive X-ray analysis of the EUropean REtrievable CArrier (EURECA), a reusable satellite launched by NASA’s Space Shuttle Atlantis in 1992 and returned to Earth intact in 1993. Collaborating with the Swiss Space Center and the Swiss Museum of Transport, the team used high-energy X-rays to non-destructively image the entire satellite, revealing defects such as cracks in composite struts and fractures in scientific instruments. Their findings, published in Acta Astronautica, span from structural to nanometer-scale material investigations. This study is significant in the context of increasing interest in reusable space technologies, as nearly 15,000 satellites orbit Earth, many launched via partially reusable rockets like SpaceX’s Falcon 9. The researchers believe their X-ray method can identify weak points in satellites caused by space radiation, temperature fluctuations, and micrometeoroid impacts, thereby informing more durable designs. They
materialssatellite-technologyreusable-satellitespace-debrisX-ray-analysiscomposite-materialsspace-engineeringLight, extremely strong material withstands 932°F temperature, could be useful for aerospace
Researchers at the University of Toronto Engineering have developed a novel lightweight and extremely strong metal matrix composite capable of withstanding temperatures up to 932°F (500°C), making it highly promising for aerospace and other high-performance applications. The material mimics the structure of reinforced concrete on a microscopic scale, featuring a titanium alloy mesh acting as "rebar" surrounded by a matrix composed of aluminum, silicon, magnesium, and embedded alumina and silicon nanoprecipitates. This design, enabled by additive manufacturing and micro-casting techniques, allows precise control over the composite’s microstructure, resulting in exceptional strength and thermal resistance. Testing revealed that the composite exhibits a yield strength of around 700 megapascals at room temperature—significantly higher than typical aluminum matrices—and maintains 300 to 400 megapascals at 500°C, compared to just 5 megapascals for conventional aluminum alloys. This performance rivals medium-range steels but at roughly one-third the weight, addressing a critical limitation of aluminum alloys
materialscomposite-materialsaerospace-materialsmetal-matrix-compositeadditive-manufacturinghigh-temperature-materialslightweight-materialsGerman startup turns race-car carbon tech into ultralight tanks for space rockets
German startup Blackwave, a spin-off from the Technical University of Munich (TUM), has developed ultralight carbon-fiber high-pressure tanks designed for space rockets. These tanks can withstand operating pressures of up to 420 bars and endure aggressive fuels and temperature fluctuations from -50 to 120 degrees Celsius. Originating from race-car carbon-fiber technology, the tanks offer a significant advancement over traditional heavy, spherical steel tanks used in rockets. Their bottle-shaped design is easier to integrate into fuel systems, chemically inert with fuels, and much lighter and more flexible. Founder Bastian Behrens, inspired by his background in race-car components and passion for aerospace, identified that carbon fibers excel under tensile stress, making them ideal for pressure tanks. The ultralight tanks help maintain rocket structural integrity during flight by releasing noble gases from internal secondary tanks to fill empty spaces as primary fuel tanks deplete. This innovation could provide aerospace engineers with greater design freedom and reduce weight, potentially transforming rocket tank design and
materialscarbon-fiberaerospacespace-rocketshigh-pressure-tankslightweight-materialscomposite-materialsTechnique to preserve dead helps construction wood resist decay, age
Researchers at the University of British Columbia (UBC) have developed a novel technique to enhance the durability and lifespan of Western red cedar, a widely used Canadian building material known for its renewability but prone to moisture absorption. The method adapts plastination—a process originally designed for preserving human and animal remains—by replacing the water in the wood’s cellular structure with a silicone compound. This creates a hydrophobic barrier that significantly reduces swelling, rotting, and cracking, thereby preserving the wood’s internal structure without compromising its tensile strength. The process involves acetone dehydration of the cedar, followed by vacuum-assisted impregnation with a silicone polymer and curing. Testing using advanced imaging and spectroscopy confirmed that the silicone deeply penetrates the wood’s microscopic channels, reducing moisture absorption by nearly 60% and increasing surface hydrophobicity by over 45%. Mechanical tests showed improved flexibility and maintained strength in treated samples, even after moisture conditioning. Compared to conventional wood treatments that rely on surface coatings or toxic chemicals, plastination
materialswood-preservationplastinationcomposite-materialsmoisture-resistancedurabilityengineering-researchOldest US bomber tests America’s most advanced nuclear missile ever
A B-52H Stratofortress bomber, known as Torch52, was photographed on October 29, 2025, over Owens Valley, California, carrying what appears to be the AGM-181 Long-Range Standoff (LRSO) stealth nuclear cruise missile. This marks the missile’s first public sighting. The AGM-181 LRSO is a next-generation nuclear-capable cruise missile designed to replace the older AGM-86B Air-Launched Cruise Missile. It features advanced stealth capabilities, including composite materials and a smaller radar cross-section, fold-out wings, an inverted-T tail, and electronic countermeasures to evade enemy radar and defenses. The missile is approximately 20 feet long, subsonic, and uses an air-breathing engine, allowing it to strike strategic targets from long distances beyond enemy air defenses. Developed by Raytheon since 2020, the LRSO is compatible with both the B-52H and the forthcoming B-
materialsenergyaerospace-technologystealth-technologymissile-guidance-systemscomposite-materialsavionicsNew textile adjusts its aerodynamic properties, can transform wearables
Researchers at Harvard’s John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences have developed an innovative textile capable of dynamically adjusting its aerodynamic properties through on-demand surface dimpling. Inspired by the dimples on a golf ball that reduce drag by inducing turbulence, this textile forms dimples when stretched, even when tightly fitted to the body. By varying the size and pattern of these dimples, the fabric can reduce aerodynamic drag by up to 20% at specific wind speeds, as demonstrated in wind tunnel experiments. This adaptability is enabled by a unique lattice pattern within the textile composite, which allows expansion rather than tightening when worn. The textile is created using a two-step manufacturing process that combines a stiffer woven material with a softer knit layer, resulting in a flexible yet structured composite. Extensive simulations and experiments with different lattice tessellations (such as squares and hexagons) helped optimize the dimpling patterns for targeted aerodynamic performance. Published in Advanced Materials, the study highlights the potential applications of this smart textile
materialssmart-textilesaerodynamic-propertieswearable-technologytextile-innovationcomposite-materialsadaptive-fabricsHyundai Motor Group & Toray Group Strengthen Ties to Develop Advanced Materials for Future Mobility - CleanTechnica
Hyundai Motor Group and Toray Group have strengthened their strategic partnership through a newly signed Joint Development Agreement aimed at advancing materials innovation for future mobility solutions. Building on a prior cooperation agreement from April 2024, the collaboration focuses on developing high-performance composite materials, particularly carbon fiber-reinforced plastics (CFRP), to enhance vehicle safety, performance, and applicability in both high-performance vehicles and special-purpose mobility such as lunar exploration rovers and robots. The agreement formalizes joint efforts across the entire value chain—from research and development to production and commercialization—leveraging Hyundai’s vehicle-level design and performance evaluation capabilities alongside Toray’s expertise in carbon fiber intermediate materials and molded products. The partnership involves Hyundai’s Materials Research & Engineering Center conducting vehicle-level design, suitability assessments, and performance evaluations of advanced materials, while Toray’s global subsidiaries in Korea, the Netherlands, and Germany handle the development and production of carbon fiber composites. Key executives from both companies emphasized that this agreement marks a significant milestone in their
advanced-materialscarbon-fibercomposite-materialsfuture-mobilityHyundai-Motor-GroupToray-Grouphigh-performance-vehiclesUS firm's space armor provides hypersonic shielding for spacecraft
US materials firm Atomic-6 has developed and unveiled Space Armor tiles, a new composite shielding technology designed to protect satellites and astronauts from hypersonic debris impacts in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). These polymer-based panels are lighter, thinner, and more effective than traditional metal-based shields like the Whipple Shield, which, despite its effectiveness, is heavy, costly, prone to fragmentation, and blocks radio-frequency (RF) signals. Atomic-6’s Space Armor can withstand impacts at speeds over 7 km/s (approximately 16,000 mph) while producing minimal secondary debris, addressing the growing threat posed by the estimated 130 million pieces of untrackable orbital debris. The Space Armor tiles come in two versions: a lighter model that shields against debris up to 3 mm in size, covering over 90% of LEO particle threats, and a heavier variant capable of resisting impacts from objects up to 12.5 mm, suitable for human space habitats. A key innovation is the composite
materialscomposite-materialsspace-armorsatellite-protectionorbital-debrishypersonic-shieldingspace-technologyHow China built a humanoid robot for the price of an iPhone
Chinese startup Noetix Robotics has developed Bumi, a humanoid robot priced at approximately US$1,380—comparable to a high-end smartphone like the iPhone 17 Pro Max—marking a significant departure from the typically exorbitant costs of humanoid robots, which often exceed tens of thousands of dollars. Following a successful RMB 300 million (US$41 million) pre-B funding round, Noetix quickly sold over 100 units within the first hour and 500 within two days on JD.com, highlighting strong market demand. Bumi stands 94 centimeters tall and is designed primarily as a social companion and educational platform rather than for industrial or full household automation purposes. Noetix achieved this affordability through three key strategies: vertical integration by designing critical hardware components like control boards and motor drivers in-house to reduce costs and optimize performance; structural redesign using lightweight composite materials with minimal metal reinforcement to reduce weight to 12 kilograms, enabling smaller motors and batteries; and sourcing nearly all
roboticshumanoid-robotaffordable-roboticsChina-technologyin-house-hardware-designcomposite-materialssupply-chain-integrationUS firm debuts missile that cruises at 35,000 feet with 575-mile range
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions has introduced the Ragnarök Low-Cost Cruise Missile (LCCM), a new precision strike weapon designed to offer long-range capabilities at a significantly reduced cost. The missile features a 575-mile (500-nautical-mile) range, can cruise at altitudes up to 35,000 feet at speeds exceeding Mach 0.7, and carries an 80-pound payload optimized for precision strikes against high-value or time-sensitive targets. With an estimated unit cost of around $150,000 in bulk production, Ragnarök is positioned as a cost-effective alternative to traditional cruise missiles like the Tomahawk, which costs about $1.5 million per round. The missile’s design emphasizes manufacturability, modularity, and tactical flexibility. It incorporates a carbon-composite fuselage for weight reduction, a wing-folding mechanism for compact storage, and compatibility with various launch platforms, including manned and unmanned aircraft such as the XQ-58 Valkyrie
materialsaerospace-engineeringunmanned-systemsdefense-technologycomposite-materialspropulsion-systemsmissile-technologyUS scientists use 'Battleship' model to plan nuclear waste storage
Stanford University researchers have developed a novel mathematical model inspired by the game Battleship to improve the evaluation of geological materials for long-term nuclear waste and carbon dioxide storage. Using a Poisson statistical model, the approach predicts the microscopic structure of porous rock and soil by identifying components at random points and mapping their distribution. This breakthrough enables more accurate predictions of how substances move through heterogeneous materials over extended periods, addressing a longstanding challenge in modeling such complex systems. Beyond nuclear waste disposal, the model has broad applications in materials science and engineering. It can reveal microstructural properties like hardness, elasticity, and conductivity, which are critical for optimizing materials such as concrete. For example, engineers could use the model to better fill air pockets in concrete with supplementary materials, reducing cement use and associated carbon emissions while enhancing strength and lowering costs. Experts highlight the model’s potential to design composite materials with tailored properties and to improve understanding in fields like groundwater management and geothermal energy. This advancement complements other global efforts in nuclear waste management,
energymaterials-sciencenuclear-waste-storagecarbon-sequestrationgeological-materialscomposite-materialsconcrete-optimizationPhotos: World's first hollow concrete guitar is surprisingly playable
Rob Scallon and Mike from Modustrial Maker have successfully created the world’s first semi-hollow body concrete guitar, modeled after a Gibson ES335. Unlike earlier concrete guitars that were heavy and solid, this instrument features 3/8-inch thick walls and weighs under 20 pounds, making it surprisingly playable. The build showcased exceptional precision, achieving perfect intonation without any post-build adjustments. The guitar’s body was engineered to prevent cracking by using a self-leveling concrete mix with plasticizers, reinforced with glass fiber scrim, PVA fibers, and embedded wood components. CNC-machined and 3D-printed molds ensured accurate neck alignment, while careful wet sanding preserved the integrity of the thin concrete walls. The construction process was challenging due to the quick curing time of concrete and the material’s properties, requiring meticulous machining and finishing. The project cost about $400, including hardware, electronics, and a Schecter neck. The finished guitar functions well as a musical instrument, with no fret
materialsconcreteguitar3D-printingfabricationengineeringcomposite-materialsChina recycles retired wind turbine blades into desert barrier walls
Researchers in China have developed an innovative approach to combat desertification by recycling retired wind turbine blades into durable sand barrier walls. Led by the Research Station of Gobi Desert Ecology and Environment at the Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, this project addresses both environmental degradation and the growing issue of wind turbine waste. The blades, which will reach the end of their 20-25 year lifespan around 2025, are repurposed into porous structures that effectively trap sand and alter wind patterns to reduce sand transport near the surface. Tests show these recycled blade barriers are 14 times stronger than traditional wood composites and can withstand ultraviolet radiation, high temperatures, and sand abrasion, making them far more durable than conventional straw or reed barriers. This technology is particularly significant for desert-edge communities like Dunhuang in Gansu province, where sandstorms threaten oases and cultural heritage sites. The ability to locally recycle turbine blades into long-lasting sand-control structures offers a sustainable solution that aligns with China’s clean energy goals and
energyrenewable-energywind-turbine-recyclingdesertification-controlcomposite-materialssustainable-materialsenvironmental-protectionIndia tests 3,000-mile nuclear missile that can hit China, Europe
India successfully test-fired its Agni-5 ballistic missile on August 20, 2025, marking a significant advancement in its long-range nuclear strike capabilities. The missile, with a range of approximately 3,100 miles (5,000 kilometers), can target nearly all of China and parts of Europe. Developed by the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Agni-5 features a three-stage solid-fuel propulsion system and lightweight composite motor casings, enhancing its range and efficiency. This missile is the longest-range weapon in India’s operational arsenal and serves as the backbone of its nuclear deterrence strategy. The test also highlights India’s progress in Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) technology, demonstrated in a prior flight test of an Agni-5 MIRV variant called Mission Divyastra. MIRV capability allows a single missile to carry multiple warheads aimed at separate targets, complicating missile defense efforts and placing India among a select group of nations
materialsenergydefense-technologymissile-technologynuclear-propulsioncomposite-materialssolid-fuel-propulsionMIT study could help predict graphite lifespan in nuclear reactors
A recent MIT study has advanced understanding of how graphite, a critical material in nuclear reactors, behaves under radiation. Graphite is widely used as a neutron moderator and reflector in reactors, playing a key role in sustaining controlled nuclear chain reactions. However, radiation exposure causes graphite to deform through swelling, shrinking, and cracking, complicating predictions of its lifespan. The MIT team applied a statistical method called the Weibull Distribution alongside X-ray scattering techniques to analyze irradiated graphite samples from Oak Ridge National Laboratory. Their research revealed unexpected pore behavior: initially, pores fill as graphite degrades, but over prolonged irradiation, a recovery or annealing process occurs where new pores form and existing pores smooth and enlarge, influencing the material’s volume changes. This discovery sheds light on graphite’s complex composite structure—comprising crystalline filler particles, a less crystalline binder matrix, and pores ranging from nanometers to microns—that affects its radiation response. The study’s findings could lead to more accurate, non-destructive predictions of graphite’s
materialsgraphitenuclear-reactorsradiation-damagematerial-lifespancomposite-materialsenergy-materialsChina unveils ‘world’s first’ jet-powered vertical landing drone for warships
China has unveiled what it claims to be the world’s first jet-powered vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) drone designed for deployment from warships without the need for runways. Developed over a decade by aerospace engineers at Beihang University starting in 2015, the drone combines small rotors for vertical lift with a turbojet engine for high-speed cruise flight. A patented retractable fairing system encloses the rotors during forward flight, reducing drag by up to 60%, enabling speeds up to 142 mph as demonstrated in tests. The composite airframe, made from advanced carbon fiber materials, is built to withstand harsh maritime conditions and repeated deck landings, while heat shielding protects the drone from jet exhaust temperatures exceeding 1,292°F. This VTOL drone is intended to operate from a variety of Chinese naval vessels—including destroyers, frigates, and amphibious ships—effectively turning them into forward-operating bases capable of launching reconnaissance, electronic warfare, or light strike
robotdronevertical-takeoff-and-landingjet-powered-dronecomposite-materialsaerospace-engineeringmilitary-technologyUS engineer spins bacteria into strong plastic-like eco-sheets
A team led by Maksud Rahman, assistant professor at the University of Houston, has developed a novel single-step method to grow biodegradable bacterial cellulose sheets that are strong enough to rival conventional plastics. By using a custom rotational culture device that guides bacterial motion through controlled fluid flow, the researchers produced aligned cellulose nanofibers, resulting in flexible, strong, and multifunctional sheets. These sheets have potential applications ranging from packaging and medical dressings to textiles and green electronics, offering an eco-friendly alternative to petroleum-based plastics. The innovation also includes enhancing the bacterial cellulose by incorporating boron nitride nanosheets into the nutrient solution, creating hybrid composites with significantly improved properties such as tensile strength up to 553 MPa and thermal conductivity three times higher than untreated samples. Published in Nature Communications, this scalable, bottom-up biosynthesis approach leverages biological processes combined with mechanical design, avoiding energy-intensive manufacturing typical of traditional bioplastics. The team envisions widespread adoption of this sustainable material across various industries aiming to
materialsbiodegradable-plasticsbacterial-cellulosenanofiberseco-friendly-materialscomposite-materialsthermal-conductivityIs the Ekranoplan back? China might be reviving a Soviet-era legend
Leaked images suggest that China is developing a modern version of the Soviet-era Ekranoplan, a wing-in-ground effect (WIG) vehicle designed to fly just above the water’s surface by using a cushion of compressed air for efficient low-altitude flight. Nicknamed the “Bohai Sea Monster,” this craft was spotted near the Bohai Sea and appears similar in size to China’s AG600 flying boat. The original Soviet Ekranoplans were high-speed amphibious vehicles used for troop transport, anti-ship warfare, and could reach speeds up to 310 mph. The Chinese version may employ composite materials for stealth and weight advantages and could serve roles such as search and rescue, personnel recovery, light cargo transport, anti-submarine operations, and sea control in coastal zones. The U.S. is reportedly developing a comparable WIG aircraft called the “Liberty Lifter,” aimed at rapid logistics across the Pacific while remaining below radar detection. Although details about China’s WIG
materialsaerospace-technologycomposite-materialsmilitary-technologywing-in-ground-effectstealth-technologyaviation-innovationUS Space Force gives retractable Light Wing solar panels funding boost
The US Space Force has awarded $2 million in funding to Atomic-6, a Marietta, Georgia-based startup, to develop its innovative “Light Wing” retractable solar arrays for military satellite applications. These solar panels can fold and unfold repeatedly, enabling satellites to adapt their configurations during different mission phases. A key feature of the Light Wing technology is its patented “space mast” and “space hinge” mechanism, which allows rapid stowing and redeployment of solar panels. This capability is especially valuable in crowded orbital environments, as satellites can retract their arrays to avoid collisions with debris or other spacecraft and then redeploy them once in safer orbits. Atomic-6, founded in 2018 and advised by notable figures such as astronaut Chris Hadfield, specializes in high-performance composite materials designed for extreme space conditions. The company has previously received multiple Department of Defense and NASA Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) awards, including a $3.8 million contract to develop “Space Armor” tiles that
energysolar-panelsspace-technologycomposite-materialssatellite-technologyUS-Space-Forceorbital-debris-mitigation156-foot-long solid rocket motor produces 4 million pounds of thrust
Northrop Grumman successfully conducted a full-scale static fire test of NASA’s Booster Obsolescence and Life Extension (BOLE) solid rocket motor, the world’s largest segmented solid rocket motor built for human spaceflight. The 156-foot-long, five-segment booster produced over 4 million pounds of thrust during a two-minute test, monitored by more than 700 data channels. This new booster features a composite carbon fiber case, updated propellant formulation, and advanced components, resulting in over 10 percent increased performance compared to the current five-segment Space Launch System (SLS) booster. The enhanced efficiency allows the booster to deliver an additional five metric tons of payload to lunar orbit, a critical capability for deep space missions. The BOLE booster development, initiated in 2017, aims to replace aging components no longer in production while aligning with commercial manufacturing standards and supporting a U.S.-based supply chain. Northrop Grumman leveraged its extensive experience from previous NASA programs, including
energyrocket-propulsionsolid-rocket-motorcomposite-materialsspace-launch-systemaerospace-engineeringcarbon-fiber-compositesSupersonic 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-materialsBreakthrough cladding tech promises longer life for US nuclear fuel
General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS), a San Diego-based firm, has made a significant breakthrough in nuclear fuel cladding technology with its Silicon Carbide (SiC) composite material called SiGA. This multilayer composite cladding can withstand temperatures up to 3,452°F (1900°C), which is six times hotter than the conditions in current light-water, pressurized water reactors. The SiGA cladding features a patented localized SiC joining method that creates gas-tight, hermetic seals without exposing nuclear fuel pellets to high-temperature water, enhancing stability during temperature cycling and reducing manufacturing time. Fuel cladding serves as a critical barrier between nuclear fuel pellets and reactor coolant, ensuring safety and operational integrity. GA-EMS has demonstrated that its SiGA cladding exhibits superior high-temperature and irradiation resistance, verified through testing at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Westinghouse’s reactor coolant test facility. After 180 days of exposure to corrosive water coolant, the SiC joints remained
energynuclear-energysilicon-carbidefuel-claddinghigh-temperature-materialsreactor-safetycomposite-materials