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Materials Science - Physics - 06.03.2023

A 4D printer for smart materials with magneto-and electro-mechanical properties has been developed
Researchers at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) have created software and hardware for a 4D printer with applications in the biomedical field. In addition to 3D printing, this machine allows for controlling extra functions: programming the material's response so that shape-changing occurs under external magnetic field, or changes in its electric properties develops under mechanical deformation.

Materials Science - 05.04.2022

New cutting-edge thermoplastic materials for the aerospace sector
The Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) coordinates the HITCOMP (High Temperature Characterisation and Modelling of Thermoplastic Composites) project within the Horizon 2020 programme, which aims to study the possible advantages of thermoplastic materials in the aerospace industry. The European aerospace sector typically uses low-weight, high-performance thermosetting plastic composites—also known as epoxy resin based composites—in many applications.

Materials Science - Physics - 29.07.2021

Simulated microgravity system created to experiment with materials
Crystallization studies conducted in space laboratories, which are costly and unaffordable for most research laboratories, showed the valuable effects of microgravity during the crystal growth process and the morphogenesis of materials. Now, a research study led by a scientific team of the University of Barcelona, has created an easy and efficient method to achieve experimentation conditions of microgravity on Earth that simulate those in space.

Physics - Materials Science - 26.04.2021

Advances for the application of nanofluids to energy storage systems
Energy storage systems are key technologies for achieving the transition to renewable energies, which can become more viable if the energy efficiency of the former improves. At present, more than 70% of concentrated solar power systems have integrated thermal energy storage (TES). Such power plants reached an installed capacity of 4.

Materials Science - Life Sciences - 17.03.2021

Research examines how to improve the measurement of the surface viscosity of filaments and membranes
Researchers at the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) have published a scientific paper that lays the foundation for developing a more precise method of measuring surface viscosity in liquid filaments and biological membranes with viscous surfaces. This development could be applied in the food, pharmaceutical or biomedical industries.

Physics - Materials Science - 08.02.2021

Design of a nanometric structure that improves solar cell efficiency
Researchers at the Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) have developed a new nanometric structure that can cover the surface of some silicon solar panels and improve their performance by up to 40%. This design could be applied to future solar installations to achieve a better energy efficiency. This new design is based on a "metasurface', in other words a surface made up of small structures that are repeated in a pattern.