Chemistry usually involves precise measurements and careful testing in order to get significant results. But a bunch of notable discoveries happened by accident. In
Exploding accidental discoveries
NSF center focuses on real-time functional imaging
The National Science Foundation (NSF), Arlington, Va., announced $24 million in funding to support a new science and technology center at the University of Colorado Boulder, expanding the university’s role as a national leader in imaging, materials, nano, bio, and energy sciences.
Self-healing crystal mimics skin
Scientists developed a smart crystal that can heal itself after breaking without any chemical or biological intervention. The crystal relies on its own molecular structure and physical contact to heal—similar to cuts on skin.
Joining dissimilar materials at low temperature
A new technology developed by Pennsylvania State University researchers, called cold sintering process (CSP), has opened a window on the ability to combine incompatible materials, such as ceramics and plastics, into new, useful compound materials, and to lower the energy cost of many types of manufacturing.
Women in Engineering Profile: Marissa Reigel
This new profile series introduces leading materials scientists from around the world who happen to be females. Here we speak with Marissa Reigel, principal engineer for Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL).