In implants and scaffolds containing bioactive glass, the relationship between device structure and biological performance is complicated by the formation of a highly complex interfacial layer. In two papers, Lehigh University researchers begin to untangle the interaction among structure, protein adsorption, and cell attachment.
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The May 2021 issue of the ACerS Bulletin—featuring articles on joining of dissimilar materials—is now available online. Plus—FMEA for spark plug design.
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Greenland is at the center of many recent discussions on establishing new rare earth mining operations outside of China. Greenland’s election on April 6, however, gave a different party its first-ever chance to form a government, which will likely shape the island’s future mining decisions.
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Optically active defects improve carbon nanotubes, new injection molding technique allows glass to be cast in any shape, and other materials stories that may be of interest for April 14, 2021.
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Despite being well over a year-deep into the COVID-19 pandemic, there still is plenty of room for improvement in terms of everyday consumer face masks. With that in mind, U.S. government agencies have partnered to host an open innovation challenge to build a better face mask—and they are backing winning ideas with $500,000 in prize money.
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Measurement of a glass before, during, and after production are critical for ensuring its processability and properties necessary for end-use application. Two recent articles in the International Journal of Applied Glass Science investigate new in-situ methods for measuring fluorine and bubbles, respectively.
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Stringed instruments are traditionally made out of wood due to the material’s unique mechanical and acoustical properties. In recent years, musicians have experimented with materials besides wood, and today’s CTT looks at the work of one Florida-based musician who specializes in making guitars out of glass.
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New 3D microbatteries, micromirror array in smart windows, and other materials stories that may be of interest for April 7, 2021.
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Second-harmonic generation is a nonlinear optical process that allows for the creation of low-power and compact light sources. Researchers in China discovered nanocrystal-in-glass composites exhibit a similar but different phenomenon called transverse second-harmonic generation that would allow for the creation of light sources with expanded capabilities.
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Artists and scientists alike find inspiration in nature. But two recent scientific studies found inspiration in the same creature: the mantis shrimp. The creature’s incredibly tough materials and complex eyes inspired innovations that could lead to fracture-resistant biocomposites and highly advanced optical sensors.
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