Miniaturized pumps and valves that rely on the motion of dielectric elastomeric silicone films are being created in Saarland, Germany. Not only are these devices lightweight, compact and energy-efficient, but they also work without the need for compressed air, motors or lubricants. They are cleanroom-compatible and can be continuously controlled while operating. The research team led by Professors Stefan Seelecke and Paul Motzki from Saarland University will be exhibiting a prototype film-based vacuum pump at this year’s Hannover Messe from 31 March to 4 April. Their lightweight, low-energy technology is able to pull a vacuum down to 300 millibars of pressure (30% of standard atmospheric pressure). Saarland Innovation Stand, Hall 2, Stand B10

A research team led by Professor Qiang Zhang from Tsinghua University has published a comprehensive analysis of energy storage technologies critical to China’s power system decarbonization. The study, featured in Technology Review for Carbon Neutrality, examines the multifunctional roles of storage systems across grid segments, evaluates core technologies from ultrashort-duration flywheels to seasonal hydrogen storage, and projects their deployment under cost and regional constraints. The work highlights policy mechanisms to support China’s transition to a carbon-neutral energy economy by 2060.

Researchers have conducted the first national survey on public awareness and perceptions of food, health, and Food is Medicine programs. A team at the Food is Medicine Institute at the Gerald J. and Dorothy R. Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University found that nearly 90 percent of Americans surveyed agreed that eating healthy foods is important for preventing conditions like obesity, high blood pressure, and type-2 diabetes. 

Pollution by marine litter of anthropogenic origin –that comes from human activity– is currently one of the biggest environmental concerns given its increasing magnitude, especially due to the considerable amount of plastics present in the marine environment.

A study carried out by the University of Malaga and the Oceanographic Centre of the Balearic Islands (COB-IEO/CSIC) highlights the importance of making accurate estimates of the amount of these contaminants to face this challenge, which not only affects the scientific community but also the general public

An Osaka Metropolitan University-led team analyzed the historical evolution of the bureaucracy from an economic perspective and came up with surprising results about nation-building and democratization.