Posts by Lisa McDonald
Other materials stories that may be of interest for November 26, 2025
Flood protection with nature-based innovation, ancient glass making techniques, and other materials stories that may be of interest for Nov. 26, 2025.
Read MoreFrom hand-ground glass to high-speed rail: The role of Fresnel lenses in railway signaling
Fresnel lenses are most well-known for their use in lighthouses, but this innovative glass lens left its mark on the railway industry as well. This CTT explores the history of Fresnel lenses in rail applications.
Read MoreCeramic and glass business news of the week for November 24, 2025
US-Canadian billionaire opens $2B platinum mine in South Africa, Bosch Advanced Ceramics acquired by Sintokogio Group, and more ceramic and glass business news of the week for Nov. 24, 2025.
Read MoreFunctional gallium oxide p–n diodes produced using standard industrial methods
Gallium oxide is a possible material to replace silicon semiconductors in high-power applications. Researchers at Nagoya University showed that standard industrial methods can be used to create stable p–n diodes out of gallium oxide.
Read MoreOther materials stories that may be of interest for November 19, 2025
Molecular dynamics of concrete durability, boron arsenide breaks thermal conductivity barrier, and other materials stories that may be of interest for Nov. 19, 2025.
Read MoreBeating the heat: The evolution of and renewed interest in ice-based ‘comfort-cooling’ systems
Ice-based thermal regulation systems were discarded in favor of mechanical refrigeration in the early 20th century, but concerns about the environment have helped bring these systems back into the spotlight as a more sustainable approach to cooling buildings.
Read MoreCeramic and glass business news of the week for November 17, 2025
Guyana proposes glass manufacturing facility, new Horizon Europe funding call to support decarbonization of the EU, and more ceramic and glass business news of the week for Nov. 17, 2025.
Read MoreLithophanes: Dedicated museum sheds light on these porcelain artworks
The Blair Museum of Lithophanes in Elmore, Ohio, has the world’s largest collection of this 19th century art form. Take a look at the museum’s collection and learn about how lithophanes have evolved over time.
Read MoreOther materials stories that may be of interest for November 12, 2025
Deep-sea mining starves life in twilight zone, quantum discovery defies rules of physics, and other materials stories that may be of interest for Nov. 12, 2025.
Read MoreThe urban fabric of brick—Part 3: Innovations and the future of design
Brick has served as the urban fabric for generations. To recognize this important history, CTT is running a special three-part series on the symbiotic relationship between bricks and cities. Part 3 looks at the evolving uses for this ancient material and emphasizes our responsibility to preserve its urban legacy.
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