A system that uses a laser and electrical current to precisely position and align carbon nanotubes represents a potential tool for creating electronic devices out of the tiny fibers. Because carbon nanotubes have unique thermal and electrical properties, they may have future applications in electronic cooling and as devices in microchips, sensors and circuits. Being able to orient the carbon nanotubes in the same direction and precisely position ...

A Purdue University technology that can help predict failures to the integrity of a tire, hose or other mechanical and medical equipment could help increase automotive safety, improve patient care and reduce liability costs. The technology, developed by a team lead by Gary W. Krutz, professor of agricultural and biological engineering, uses a sensor that can predict when a tire or hose is compromised and in danger of breaking up to two weeks in a...

  Carbon fibers derived from a sustainable source, a type of wild mushroom, and modified with nanoparticles have been shown to outperform conventional graphite electrodes for lithium-ion batteries. Researchers at Purdue University have created electrodes from a species of wild fungus called Tyromyces fissilis.

A technology that is easy to manufacture and uses commercially available materials makes it possible to continuously remove oils and other pollutants from water, representing a potential tool for environmental cleanup. The material is shown to be superhydrophobic and superoleophilic, meaning it rejects water while absorbing oils. It is made using melamine sponges, an ultra-low-weight, porous material found in various products including household ...

Pollens, the bane of allergy sufferers, could represent a boon for battery makers: Recent research has suggested their potential use as anodes in li-ion batteries. Batteries have two electrodes, called an anode and a cathode. The anodes in most of today's li-ion batteries are made of graphite. Li-ions are contained in a liquid called an electrolyte and these ions are stored in the anode during recharging.

Researchers from Purdue University are developing a smart capsule which could deliver medications directly to the large intestines to target certain conditions. Findings are detailed in a research paper authored by graduate students Wuyang Yu, Rahim Rahimi and Manuel Ochoa; Rodolfo Pinal, associate professor of industrial and physical pharmacy; and Babak Ziaie, professor of electrical and computer engineering.

Researchers at Purdue University, Indiana, have shown how to convert waste packing peanuts into high-performance carbon electrodes for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that outperform conventional graphite electrodes, representing an environmentally friendly approach to waste disposal.