The introduction of robotics is key to lowering production costs and
increasing efficiency, yet the UK has been slow on the uptake. Keith
Thornhill from Siemens outlines how centralised control is the next
stage in packaging development.
The range of uses rare earth ions provide for technological development
are seemingly endless. Professor Daniel Hewak, head of the Novel Glasses
for Optoelectronic Devices Research Group at The University of
Southampton, UK shows how this valuable commodity is already changing
the world.
Dr Allan Walton, Senior Science Research Fellow and Dr Andy Williams, Head of the Magnetic Materials
Group, both at the University of Birmingham, UK, outline methods to retrieve crucial elements that are
in short supply.
Having worked with some big electronic brands, Rosie Ashurst, Managing Director of Burgopak Design & Packaging, London, UK, talks about how such packaging is handled from concept to shelf.
Dr Thomas Seidel of AMC Managing Complexity GmbH, and Dr Reik Donner,
from Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, both in Germany,
discuss applying tracking systems in the packaging
manufacturing process.
Professor Robert Dorey, Head of the Microsystems and Nanotechnology Centre at Cranfield University, UK, considers the future of personal energy solutions and the role that materials science will play.
Piezo or ferroelectric properties, are finding favour in photocatalysis
and photovoltaic devices. Dr Steve Dunn, Senior Lecturer, at the Centre
for Materials Research, Queen Mary, University of London, outlines the
potential of these functional materials.
Supplying electricity across water expanses can only be completed
through durable cables. Kristin Hessen, Communications and Marketing
Director, from Nexans, Halden, Norway, outlines the developments in
cross-linked polyethylene conductors for more efficient power delivery.
In electronics, fabricating smaller components is a major objective.
Professor David Britton, from the NanoSciences Innovation Centre at the
University of Cape Town, South Africa, outlines the progress made in
printed silicon technology.
