Results of the team's study show that the greatest electrical conductivity occurs when the carbon nanotubes are not perfectly aligned, but only partially aligned. In addition, a higher conductivity at, or close to, the percolation threshold can be achieved with the presence of agglomerated carbon nanotubes. However, this also limits the amount of increase in the electrical conductivity of the nanocomposite with increased fractions of carbon nanotubes.
Standards for repair and maintenance of commercial aircraft have to date been based on the performance of metal-based planes, where damage is easier to identify. Techniques for repairing the metal portions of aircraft are well known and well established. But that's not at all the case with the composite materials used increasingly for primary structures such as wings and fuselage. Impact damage, for example, can be difficult to detect since it's less visible, and repair practices are not yet established for the multiple materials and repair techniques associated with them.
It would be great if adhesives could help provide a warning for structural problems in an aircraft. I look forward to see the progress of this through research and development.
Thanks, Rob. Yes, the hope here seems to be that since the use of adhesives is increasing massively along with the use of composites, adhesives can help provide an early-warning system for detecting structural problems in aircraft. Reading about nanotechnology and its possible applications is like reading about science fiction, far more so than most other leading-edge technologies. I covered early carbon tube and carbon wire R&D efforts several years ago, so it was heartening to see that it's advanced to the level of possible real-world applications. Although this, of course, is still in R&D.
The self-monitoring aspect of this story is what fascinates me the most. I'd like to read more about this topic, especially what other areas something like this is being used in. Ann, do you happen to know?
With LEDs dropping in price virtually every year, automakers have begun employing them, not only on luxury vehicles, but on entry-level models, as well.
The 3D printing revolution seems to have a knack for quickly moving technology ahead by way of collaborative effort and even a little friendly competition -- all of course in the name of scientific advancement.
Advantech has launched a new series of motion-control I/O modules to meet the increased demands that come with more distributed industrial systems that require control of a growing number of axes and devices.
Using almost 200 light-emitting diodes in the front and back of the new 2014 CTS, Cadillac designers are showing how LEDs can change the character of a vehicle.
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A quick look into the merger of two powerhouse 3D printing OEMs and the new leader in rapid prototyping solutions, Stratasys. The industrial revolution is now led by 3D printing and engineers are given the opportunity to fully maximize their design capabilities, reduce their time-to-market and functionally test prototypes cheaper, faster and easier. Bruce Bradshaw, Director of Marketing in North America, will explore the large product offering and variety of materials that will help CAD designers articulate their product design with actual, physical prototypes. This broadcast will dive deep into technical information including application specific stories from real world customers and their experiences with 3D printing. 3D Printing is
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