Engineering news
'Nanosponges’ that attract and neutralise coronavirus cells could protect against Covid-19
Professional Engineering
Engineers have developed a potentially groundbreaking tool in the fight against Covid-19. The ‘nanosponges’ – biodegradable polymer cores coated in human lung cell and immune cell membranes – can attract and neutralise the SARS-CoV-2 virus in cell culture, causing the virus to lose its ability to hijack host cells and reproduce.
Solar firm to develop novel electronics for rail renewables
E&T
Solar energy company Riding Sunbeams has won funding to develop power electronics technology that will enable it to feed renewable electricity directly into railway overhead wires.
China reveals details of next-gen crew spacecraft's 1st test flight
Space.com
A first glimpse inside the prototype of China's next-generation crew-carrying spacecraft has been provided in Beijing following a successful uncrewed test flight in May. The capsule, which has not yet been named, launched on a Long March 5B rocket from Wenchang on May 5, carrying out a first uncrewed test for future deep-space missions.
Hydrogen freight trains and anti-slip technology for UK railways get share of £9.4m funding
Professional Engineering
A zero-emissions machine that removes and replaces rails, a hydrogen-based turbine system for freight trains and ‘cryogenic blasting’ to prevent wheel slip could all be coming to UK railways thanks to a new £9.4m fund.
Graphene infused garments regulate body temperature
The Engineer
Researchers have used the thermal properties and flexibility of graphene to create smart adaptive clothing which can lower the body temperature of the wearer. Scientists from Manchester University’s National Graphene Institute have created a prototype garment to demonstrate dynamic thermal radiation control within a piece of clothing. The development also opens the door to new applications such as, interactive infrared displays and covert infrared communication on textile.
John Slattery to become CEO of GE Aviation
Aerospace Engineering
GE has announced David Joyce, CEO of GE Aviation, will retire from the company after 40 years. Joyce spent his entire career at GE Aviation, including 12 years as its president and CEO. He strategically invested in the business to enable a complete renewal of its product portfolio, including 10 different engine families, resulting in pioneering improvements in fuel efficiency, emissions and noise.
Airbus UK wins new contract for rover to retrieve first samples from Mars
Professional Engineering
Airbus UK has won a new contract to design the Sample Fetch Rover, which is planned to collect the first ever samples of Martian rocks and soil.
IEA calls for $3tn green recovery plan targeting energy efficiency and renewables
E&T
The International Energy Agency (IEA) has released details of a $3tn green recovery plan that it says countries should implement in order to drag their flailing economies out of the damage caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
Dissolving 'nanoneedle' patch could gradually release skin cancer drugs
Professional Engineering
A new wearable patch that gradually dissolves into the body could help prevent uncomfortable or painful side effects associated with other skin cancer treatments, its creators have said.
Southern Manufacturing confirms return with new dates
Aerospace Engineering
Southern Manufacturing & Electronics has confirmed that it will be returning to Farnborough International next year from 20-22 April 2021.
The show has been rescheduled from its regular dates in February to avoid conflicting with other events postponed from 2020, and to provide the greatest benefit to visitors and exhibitors as they bounce back from the effects of lockdown.
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Content published by Professional Engineering does not necessarily represent the views of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers.