An adhesive bonding technology for endoscope lenses that can better withstand the fluctuating temperatures of repeated sterilisation has been developed by scientists at the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Technology and Applied Materials Research in Bremen, Germany. The technique makes use of UV light curing and heat treatment to harden the adhesives.
Plart – a museum dedicated to researching non-destructive testing for the restoration and conservation of plastic artefacts – opened on 25 January 2008 in Naples, Italy. The aim is to set up a characterisation and conservation protocol specific thermosetting plastics and thermoplastics. Polyurethane, PVC and cellulose acetate and nitrate materials are recognised as the most difficult materials to conserve from degradation.
A multi-million pound grant has been awarded to the University of Sheffield's Institute for Microstructured and Mechanical Process Engineering (IMMPETUS) to help UK-based metals processing companies improve efficiency.
Academic research with a view to commercialisation is becoming increasingly popular. The number of university spin-out companies and partnerships with industry is growing. Rupal Mehta investigates the reality behind this entrepreneurial spirit.
A novel wireless sensor for use on bridges can be powered by the vibrations of vehicles passing overhead. The device, made from piezoelectronics, measures temperature, humidity, light and pressure, and could function for years without requiring maintenance or battery replacement.
The Energy Materials Working Group of Materials UK has launched its Strategic Research Agenda for the energy sector over the next five, 10 and 20 years.
