Seatrec tech uses changes in temperature to power underwater gliders

If you want to gather oceanographic data over long distances, the use of an “underwater glider” is often the best way to go. A novel system from California-based company Seatrec should soon power such vehicles, utilizing the temperature gradient of oce… Continue reading Seatrec tech uses changes in temperature to power underwater gliders

MIT creates a camera lens that can change focus without moving parts

Modern zoom lenses work wonderfully, but crack one open and you’ll be greeted by a truly terrifying degree of micro-mechanical complexity, with 20 or more polished glass elements set to move in different directions at varying rates when you work the zo… Continue reading MIT creates a camera lens that can change focus without moving parts

Light-activated material stores potential energy for months or years

Researchers at Lancaster University have developed a new material that can store energy for months, and potentially years, at a time. The material can be activated by light, and then release the pent-up energy on demand in the form of heat.Continue Rea… Continue reading Light-activated material stores potential energy for months or years

Phase-change fabric both warms and cools its wearer

The more clothing that you wear, the warmer you are … right? Well actually, scientists have developed a new textile that both warms wearers in cold environments, and cools them down when things heat up.Continue ReadingCategory: Materials, ScienceTags: … Continue reading Phase-change fabric both warms and cools its wearer