Materials Features

Thales turns to photochemical etching for an extreme application

Thales turns to photochemical etching for an extreme application

Photochemical etching is still a relatively low profile process that remains one of industry’s best kept secrets. Bonny Van Geel describes how one major global player adopted the technique for a special application.

Rethinking the basic science of graphene synthesis

Rethinking the basic science of graphene synthesis

A new route to making graphene has been discovered that could make the 21st century’s wonder material easier to ramp up to industrial scale.

The next generation of micro moulding

The next generation of micro moulding

When it comes to moulding of plastic parts, OEMs have had to choose from various technologies that are, to a greater or lesser exten,t based on traditional injection moulding processes. Enric Sirera describes a new ultrasonic process.

New insights into metal wear of sliding parts

New insights into metal wear of sliding parts

Researchers have discovered a previously unknown mechanism for wear in metals: a swirling, fluid-like microscopic behaviour in a solid piece of metal sliding over another. The findings could be used to improve the durability of metal parts.

Nature must remain at the heart of engineering solutions

Nature must remain at the heart of engineering solutions

Dr Michelle Oyen, Reader in Mechanics of Biological Materials at the University of Cambridge Department of Engineering, looks at how nature must remain at the heart of engineering solutions.

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