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Materials

3M highlights major global trends in materials science and charts its own way ahead

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3M Forward is a program that highlights how materials science-based innovation at scale can help society progress amid three unstoppable forces shaping our planet: climate change and resource scarcity, shifting demographics and social change and convergence of the physical and digital worlds. As part of 3M Forward, 3M scientists, engineers and experts share how their solutions are helping to build a brighter future.

Mark Copman, 3M senior vice president, new growth ventures, says: “The global forces highlighted within 3M Forward are disruptive in nature, but we see them as catalysts for new advances in science and positive societal impact.

“Science has the potential to solve the toughest global challenges, and 3M’s diverse global portfolio and vast expertise make us optimally positioned to imagine what’s possible and build what’s next.”  [Read more…] about 3M highlights major global trends in materials science and charts its own way ahead

Explore Treated Wood: What You Need to Know

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Treated wood, also known as pressure-treated wood, is a popular choice for a wide range of construction and outdoor projects. It undergoes a treatment process that enhances its durability and resistance to decay, insects, and weathering.

In this article, we will explore the key aspects of treated wood, including its benefits, common uses, types of treatments, safety considerations, and environmental impact. [Read more…] about Explore Treated Wood: What You Need to Know

Soft robotics and new materials will have the biggest impact on industry, says Protolabs report

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A new Protolabs report reveals that almost one third (32 percent) of robotics industry experts believe that soft robotics and new materials will have the biggest impact on how robotics manufacturing will develop in the next five years.

Meanwhile, more than one quarter (29 percent) see the material supply chain as the most serious barrier to progress.

Sustainability and speed were highlighted as important factors for innovation and product development in fresh applications. [Read more…] about Soft robotics and new materials will have the biggest impact on industry, says Protolabs report

The Synergy of Advanced Ceramics and Industrial Robotics and Automation

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Welcome to a groundbreaking exploration at the intersection of advanced ceramics and industrial robotics and automation.

In this article, we embark on a journey that unveils the remarkable synergy between these two fields and how their integration is reshaping manufacturing processes and driving innovation.

By combining the exceptional properties of advanced ceramics with the precision and efficiency of robotics and automation, industries are experiencing unprecedented advancements. So, let’s delve into this transformative partnership and discover the potential it holds for the future of manufacturing. [Read more…] about The Synergy of Advanced Ceramics and Industrial Robotics and Automation

The Importance of Steel Quality Control in Robotics Production: Ensuring Safety and Reliability

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As the demand for robotics continues to grow in various sectors like manufacturing, healthcare, and service industries, the need for high-quality materials in their production has become more critical than ever.

Ensuring the safety and reliability of these machines is a top priority, and one of the key factors contributing to this is the quality of steel used in their construction.

This blog post will explore the importance of steel quality control in robotics production, highlighting six reasons why it’s essential for ensuring the safety and reliability of these advanced technologies. [Read more…] about The Importance of Steel Quality Control in Robotics Production: Ensuring Safety and Reliability

What are polyurethane sheets used for?

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What is Polyurethane?

Polyurethane is a synthetic polymer material that has many uses in various industries. Polyurethane sheets are widely used for their durability, flexibility, and versatility. They come in different sizes and thicknesses to cater to different needs.

Polyurethane sheets are commonly used for insulation purposes because of their high resistance to heat and chemicals. They are also frequently used in the manufacturing of gaskets, seals, and other industrial components that require a high level of durability. Polyurethane sheets can be molded into intricate shapes, making them ideal for custom applications where precision is crucial.

In addition to industrial applications, polyurethane sheets are often utilized in construction projects as well. They can be used as a protective covering or cushioning material on surfaces such as walls or floors. Overall, polyurethane sheets offer excellent performance characteristics that make them an attractive option for a wide range of applications across diverse industries. [Read more…] about What are polyurethane sheets used for?

DoE offering $30 million for new materials and manufacturing to lower cost of large wind turbines

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The US Department of Energy has announced a $30 million funding opportunity to advance the cost-effective domestic manufacturing of materials, including lightweight composites, that allow wind turbines to produce power more efficiently.

Because wind energy is the largest source of renewable power in the United States and one of the most affordable sources of energy today, it is a critical tool for reducing our reliance on fossil energy, and next-generation technologies and manufacturing improvements will help bring down costs even more.

The improved materials and manufacturing processes envisioned under this funding opportunity have the potential to reduce wind energy costs and expand the deployment of the nation’s wind energy portfolio in support of President Biden’s goals to reach 100 percent clean electricity by 2035 and a net-zero-emissions economy by 2050. [Read more…] about DoE offering $30 million for new materials and manufacturing to lower cost of large wind turbines

Heraeus becomes largest shareholder in startup Smart Steel Technologies

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Technology company Heraeus is expanding its expertise in artificial intelligence and AI-based process optimization by acquiring a stake in the Berlin-based start-up Smart Steel Technologies, making it the largest shareholder.

Jan Rinnert, CEO of Heraeus Holding and chairman of the management board, says: “Artificial intelligence and optimization of production processes are becoming increasingly important in the steel industry, too.

“AI solutions increase efficiency, sustainability and quality standards along the entire process chain. With Smart Steel Technologies, we have a competent partner at our side, with whose software we will further improve production processes in steel mills.” [Read more…] about Heraeus becomes largest shareholder in startup Smart Steel Technologies

Heraeus and AI Silk unveil ultra-light metaverse glove

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Heraeus Epurio, a specialist developer of conductive polymer materials, and AI Silk , a Japanese wearable-tech startup that has developed the proprietary and patented conductive fiber “Lead Skin”, have together unveiled the “Haptic Metaverse Glove”.

The “ultra-light” glove has no mechanical parts attached, that doubles as sensors and an AR/VR/XR controller.

Made from AI Silk’s proprietary conductive fiber, Lead Skin, Haptic Metaverse Glove powered by Lead Skin features built-in finger-bending sensors, as well as control buttons on the back of the wearer’s hand, all of which are also made of the same conductive fiber. [Read more…] about Heraeus and AI Silk unveil ultra-light metaverse glove

Startup company Foamplant launches ‘world’s first sustainable foam’

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A startup company called Foamplant, based in the Netherlands, is launching what it claims is “the world’s first and only fully circular, sustainable open cell foam”.

Branded “Moorefoam”, the product will be officially launched at Foam Expo Europe (8-10 November, Stuttgart, Germany).

Patented Moorefoam technology enables circular production in the bedding, furniture, automotive and avionics sectors, says the company. Moorefoam is available to order now, with initial deliveries in mid-April 2023. [Read more…] about Startup company Foamplant launches ‘world’s first sustainable foam’