A newly published study in Engineering reveals a novel approach to the performance assessment of reinforced concrete (RC) structures. By integrating distributed fiber optic sensing technology with self-sensing steel fiber-reinforced polymer composite bars (SFCBs), researchers have developed a method that enables a multilevel evaluation of the safety, durability, and suitability of these structures. This new research holds great promise for enhancing structural health monitoring and maintenance practices in the construction field.

A recent study in Engineering uncovers new insights into detecting hydrate blockages in subsea oil and gas pipelines. As offshore exploration advances, these blockages pose a growing threat. The research details hydrate characteristics, evaluates detection methods, and shares real-world applications. Find out how it could transform pipeline safety and efficiency.

In a recent study published in Engineering, researchers Jialin Jiang, Lidong Yang, Shihao Yang, and Li Zhang have developed a deep learning-based framework for size-adaptable microswarms. This innovative solution overcomes long-standing navigation challenges in confined spaces, with potential to revolutionize applications in biomedicine and beyond.

A newly-released review article in the journal Engineering has shed light on the remarkable potential of multiphoton polymerization (MPP)-based micro/nanomanufacturing in precision medicine. The study by an expert team comprehensively examines its principles, materials, diverse biomedical applications like drug delivery and disease diagnosis, existing challenges, and future prospects. This innovative technology could precision medicine, but faces hurdles in material safety, process efficiency, and cost. Despite these, the research offers hope for a future where MPP-based tools transform healthcare.

Researchers at the University of Missouri, led by Assistant Professor Matthias Young, are working to enhance battery safety and efficiency by developing solid-state alternatives to lithium-ion batteries. These batteries offer improved energy efficiency and safety, but a major challenge has been the formation of an interphase layer at the junction of the solid electrolyte and cathode. This ultra-thin layer obstructs lithium ion and electron movement, increasing resistance and degrading battery performance.

To tackle this issue, Young’s team used four-dimensional scanning transmission electron microscopy (4D STEM) to examine the battery’s atomic structure without taking it apart. This breakthrough allowed them to identify the chemical reactions causing the interphase layer to form, providing valuable insights into improving solid-state battery technology. Now, the team is developing thin-film protective coatings to prevent these reactions, a step that could lead to more efficient and widely adoptable solid-state batteries in the future.

Researchers at the University of Missouri, led by Assistant Professor Matthias Young, are working to enhance battery safety and efficiency by developing solid-state alternatives to lithium-ion batteries. These batteries offer improved energy efficiency and safety, but a major challenge has been the formation of an interphase layer at the junction of the solid electrolyte and cathode. This ultra-thin layer obstructs lithium ion and electron movement, increasing resistance and degrading battery performance.

To tackle this issue, Young’s team used four-dimensional scanning transmission electron microscopy (4D STEM) to examine the battery’s atomic structure without taking it apart. This breakthrough allowed them to identify the chemical reactions causing the interphase layer to form, providing valuable insights into improving solid-state battery technology. Now, the team is developing thin-film protective coatings to prevent these reactions, a step that could lead to more efficient and widely adoptable solid-state batteries in the future.