Microchannel

The new self-healing system features 3D vascular networks that release healing agents when ruptured – a herringbone pattern (top) was found to be more effective than a parallel design (bottom)

Science

Vascular self-healing system allows composite materials to repair multiple times

Researchers have developed a new technique that brings self-healing capabilities to fiber-reinforced composite materials, like those used in airplanes and automobiles. The system relies on 3D vascular networks that release healing agents when ruptured.

A microchannel created using the laser scribing technique (Photo: Purdue University School of Mechanical Engineering image/Yung Shin)

Science

Laser scribing promises cheaper, more efficient solar panels

A new manufacturing method that incorporates laser technology may result in thin film solar panels that are less expensive and more efficient than anything presently on the market.

Purdue University's Tannaz Harirchian and Professor Suresh Garimella have developed a new means of cooling chips in electric and hybrid applications(Photo: Andrew Hancock)

Environment

Keeping hybrids cool under the bonnet reaches boiling point

Researchers in the U.S. believe the secret to cooling the electronics in a hybrid engine may lie in understanding precisely how fluid boils in tiny ‘microchannels’.