Electron-rich metals make ceramics tough to crack

Researchers have discovered a way to make ceramics tougher and more resistant to cracking. By building these materials using a blend of metal atoms possessing more electrons in their outer shell, a team led by engineers at ...

How to change an asteroid into a space habitat, in just 12 years

The basic idea of turning an asteroid into a rotating space habitat has existed for a while. Despite that, it's always seemed relatively far off regarding technologies, so the concept hasn't received much attention over the ...

Researchers pin down PFAS prevalence in firefighter gear

A firefighter's protective clothing, called turnout gear, is essential for operating in the dangerous conditions of a fire. However, the firefighting community has raised concerns regarding the presence of a class of chemicals ...

How much cadmium is contained in cocoa beans?

Cocoa beans can absorb toxic heavy metals such as cadmium from the soil. Some cultivation areas, especially in South America, are polluted with these heavy metals, in some cases considerably. In combining different X-ray ...

Team uncovers new details of SARS-CoV-2 structure

A new study led by Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) brings into sharper focus the structural details of the COVID-19 virus, revealing an elliptical shape that "breathes," or changes shape, as it moves in the body. The ...

Experiment reveals why pundits can be unreliable

Decisions by policymakers and managers often rely on predictions and forecasts provided by experts. For instance, policymakers may increase public investments if they anticipate economic stagnation, and companies may introduce ...

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