The August 2026 issue of ACerS Bulletin is now available online.
August is our annual raw materials issue, and this year we explore solutions to supply chain challenges. The cover story by Hamed Samadi, Thomas Metzger, and Manuel Hitz looks at how advanced purification methods can help overcome some of the technical and regulatory challenges of modern graphite production. Another substantial feature story by Mathias Herrmann and colleagues shows how silicon carbide-bonded diamond composites can be a solution to the growing demand for cost-effective, wear-resistant materials with a long service life.
Two shorter feature stories expand on future supply chain needs. The application note by Jonathon Volk describes the in-development Starlab commercial space station, which will provide access to in-space manufacturing capabilities after the International Space Station is retired. The other feature story by Shree Nagarkar and Wesley Drew Frey calls for a better understanding of interfacial failure to improve aerospace maintenance. This issue also contains the annual overview of the United States Geological Survey Mineral Commodity Summaries, which presents the main trends discussed in this year’s report.
In addition to the feature stories, the “Journal Highlights” column by ACerS journals managing editor Brittney Hauke presents two solutions to common challenges in glass manufacturing. The “Deciphering the Discipline” column by student Anthony Brandl describes the development of novel hydrogel feedstocks for additive manufacturing of aerospace components.
This issue’s Industry section features three columns that preview growing technology fields and initiatives to address various industry needs. The “Business and Market View” column highlights two reports that investigate the global markets for electricity and hydrogen energy storage technologies, respectively. The “Industry Perspectives” column by Amanda Engen explains how the ACerS Learning Center helps bridge the gap between formal education and the plant floor. The “Industry Insights” column by David Holthaus looks at the emerging field of bioprospecting, which offers a novel pathway to discovering new mineral deposits.
Finally, the “Letter to the Editor” by Edgar D. Zanotto gives a high-level review of how artificial intelligence is reshaping glass understanding and design.
You’ll find a lot more interesting content inside this—and every issue—of the ACerS Bulletin. Sign-up for one FREE year of ACerS membership to gain access to this valuable resource and everything else that ACerS has to offer!
