Category Technology/Electronics

This is an illustration of a single cellulose nanocrystal and a cross-section. Credit: Robert Sinko

Theoretically, nanocellulose could be the next hot supermaterial. A new computational approach allows researchers to design cellulose nanocomposites with optimal properties. A class of biomaterials in many natural systems like trees, cellulose nanocrystals have captured researchers’ attention for their extreme strength, toughness, light weight, and elasticity. The materials are so strong and tough, in fact, that many people think they could replace Kevlar in ballistic vests and combat helmets for military. Unlike their source material (wood), cellulose nanocrystals are transparent, making them exciting candidates for protective eyewear, windows, or displays.

Although there is a lot of excite...

Researchers at the NASA Johnson Space Center in collaboration with General Motors have designed and developed Robo-Glove, a wearable human grasp assist device, to help reduce the grasping force needed to operate tools for an extended time or for repetitive motion tasks. This wearable device allows the user to tightly grip tools and other items for longer periods of time without experiencing muscle discomfort or strain. The Robo-Glove also has potential applications in prosthetic devices, rehabilitation aids, and people with impaired or limited arm and hand muscle strength.

The Robo-Glove is a patented technology available for commercial technology licensing. For more information about Robo-Glove and other technology license opportunities, visit: http://technology.jsc.nasa.gov
https:/...

New flexible polymeric material capable of self-repairing. Credit: Image courtesy of Asociación RUVID

The material, a type of transparent resin, has the property of healing itself; for example, when it is cut with scissors in half and put back in contact, it rejoins itself within 10-15 seconds without using any external source. Another feature of this material is that the cutting-joining process can be performed in water or in any other fluid substance. “This property is a novelty all over the world that gives way to the development of different materials for their applications in sectors such as medicine, cosmetics, space industry, automotive, and many others,” as stated the 3 researchers, Prof José Miguel Martín, Jose Antonio Jofre and chemist Andrés Yanez...

This image shows: (a) Main components of micro PSC; (b) unassembled micro PSC model; (c) assembled proposed micro PSC model; (d) schematic of micro PSC tested; (e) schematic of experimental set up; and (f) experimental measurement set up. Credit: TECHNOLOGY

A novel micro-technology, which captures the electrical power generated by the photosynthesis and respiration of blue-green algae, has been created by Optical Bio Microsystem scientists. This scalable technology enables economical ways of generating clean energy, and may be the superlative, carbon-free power source for the mitigation and eventual erasure of global warming.

Both photosynthesis and respiration, which take place in plants cells, involve electron transfer chains...