Embracing life’s surprises
Unexpected experimental results often give Associate Professor Cem Tasan new insights into how metals break and deform — and how to design damage-resistant alloys.
Polymer Day 2023 showcases interdisciplinary innovation
A record-breaking number of presenters flock to the MIT event’s poster competition; topics range from synthetic mucus to nature-inspired design.
Turning a circle into a square is possible with this kirigami-inspired formula
A study inspired by the Japanese paper-cutting art provides a blueprint for designing shape-shifting materials and devices.
Three MIT-led projects awarded MURI funding for 2023
Through the Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative, the US Department of Defense supports research projects in areas of critical importance to national defense.
Deep-learning system explores materials’ interiors from the outside
A new method could provide detailed information about internal structures, voids, and cracks, based solely on data about exterior conditions.
MIT engineers “grow” atomically thin transistors on top of computer chips
A new low-temperature growth and fabrication technology allows the integration of 2D materials directly onto a silicon circuit, which could lead to denser and more powerful chips.
Off-menu materials science
Rob Macfarlane synthesizes new composite materials by manipulating their structure at the nanometer scale.
Researchers 3D print a miniature vacuum pump
The device would be a key component of a portable mass spectrometer that could help monitor pollutants, perform medical diagnoses in remote areas, or test Martian soil.
AI system can generate novel proteins that meet structural design targets
These tunable proteins could be used to create new materials with specific mechanical properties, like toughness or flexibility.
Nanoparticles provoke immune response against tumors but avoid side effects
In a new study, immunostimulatory drugs slowed tumor growth without producing systemic inflammation.
Even as temperatures rise, this hydrogel material keeps absorbing moisture
MIT engineers identified an unusually absorbent material that could be used for passive cooling or water harvesting in warm climates.
Scientists uncover the amazing way sandgrouse hold water in their feathers
The structure of the desert birds’ belly feathers enables males to carry water over long distances to their chicks.
Scientists use computational modeling to design “ultrastable” materials
These highly stable metal-organic frameworks could be useful for applications such as capturing greenhouse gases.
Jacob Andreas and Mingda Li honored with Junior Bose Award for Excellence in Teaching
Award is given each year by the School of Engineering to an outstanding educator up for promotion to associate professor without tenure.
New additives could turn concrete into an effective carbon sink
MIT engineers discover new carbonation pathways for creating more environmentally friendly concrete.