#Microstructure

[materialsscienceandengineering]

Researchers investigate microstructure evolution of oxide films of Fe-Cr–based alloys

Ferritic/martensitic steels and austenitic steels are the primary candidate materials for advanced nuclear energy systems. The corrosion resistance of the materials is one of the factors that ensures the safe service of key components. Since the corrosion resistance of materials is highly related to the characteristics of the formed oxide films, it is crucial to investigate the oxide films of candidate materials in high-temperature water. Researchers at the Institute of Modern Physics (IMP) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) selected candidate materials (15-15Ti, 316L and T91) to study their early oxidation behavior in high-temperature steam and the evolution process of the oxide microstructure. The results were published in Journal of Materials Science & Technology. The Ni-rich layer in the oxide film of austenitic steels (15-15Ti, 316L) is composed of Fe-Cr spinel oxide and Ni-rich phase. Researchers at IMP found a large number of nanopores in the inner oxide layer that could serve as a rapid gas transport channel for oxidant. They revealed the evolution process of Ni-rich layer and the formation mechanism of nanopores in the inner oxide layer.

Read more.

[horizontitanium]

Microstructure Insights: Ti6Al4V ELI – Why Continuous Alpha Networks Matter

In industries like medical and aerospace, material performance is critical. The microstructure of Ti6Al4V ELI plays a crucial role in ensuring safety and durability. But have you ever wondered why continuous alpha networks can pose a significant issue? Here's why:

➡️ They create brittle points, increasing the risk of failure. ➡️ They reduce toughness and fatigue resistance. ➡️ They provide pathways for fatigue cracking, compromising durability.

Why is it important to examine the microstructure at higher resolutions?

Ti6Al4V ELI has a very fine microstructure in the annealed condition, making it difficult to assess the alpha network and phase distribution at lower magnifications (100x-500x). To accurately determine if a continuous alpha network has formed and to analyze the distribution of alpha and beta phases, it's essential to use magnifications of at least 1000x or higher.

Want to learn more about how detailed analysis can prevent material failures? Drop a comment or contact us at info@horizontitanium.com. Let’s discuss your challenges!

[civilchhapola]

The Structure of a Tree: Understanding the Macrostructure and Microstructure of Timber

Trees have been an important resource for human civilizations for thousands of years, providing building materials, fuel, and other essential products. In civil engineering, timber is one of the most commonly used materials, thanks to its strength, durability, and versatility. Understanding the structure of trees is therefore crucial for civil engineers who work with timber. Structure of a…

[tumblermixer]

Microstructures

Stainless steel has larger grains compared to cast iron as seen in the figures. The formation of such grains results in a lower tensile strength. Therefore, stainless steel is more ductile than cast iron. As a result, the tank can absorb a certain amount of shock from the repeated colliding of the mixture upon the rotation of the tumbler mixer without fracturing.

[psalmsofpsychosis]

@maderilien you... broke me.....

[sukimas]

admittedly i could have a confluence of other mental weirdness that explains the developmental weirdness, social weirdness, sensory weirdness, and odd interests, but i'm a proponent of the duck theory of neurodivergence. if it looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, it's probably a duck.

[brutulist]

la fin is located in an abandoned cathedral, and i think about all the ways nature creeps in, how it ultimately takes over something that was man-made, and how that connects to the vampires that inhabit its halls, how nature has found a way to creep into their humanness and reclaim the body as its own; yes, vampires are abnormal from a human perspective, but to nature? aren't they part of the cycle?

[metnmat]

Metal Manufacturing as the Smart Specialization of the Regions

Metal manufacturing has emerged as a shining beacon of innovation and economic progress, transforming from a conventional heavy industry into a smart specialization that drives regional development. This article aims to shed light on the intricate world of metal manufacturing, encompassing its evolution, significance, technological advancements, and its pivotal role as a smart specialization strategy across diverse regions.

METNMAT RESEARCH AND INNOVATION

1. Introduction: From Tradition to Transformation

At the heart of industrial evolution lies the remarkable journey of metal manufacturing. Once associated with the imagery of smoke-filled factories and manual labor, this sector has undergone a revolutionary metamorphosis. Today, it stands tall as a vanguard of innovation, steering the course of regional development toward new horizons. The transition from tradition to transformation is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of metal manufacturing in the face of changing times.

2. The Significance of Metal Manufacturing

Metal manufacturing occupies a pivotal position in the tapestry of industries that shape the modern world. From the towering structures of urban landscapes to the intricate components within electronic devices, its significance is omnipresent. The products of metal manufacturing serve as the backbone of diverse sectors, breathing life into everything from automobiles to advanced medical equipment. This significance underscores its role not only as an economic driver but also as an enabler of technological progress and societal advancement.

"From forges of tradition to the frontier of technology, metal manufacturing stands as a beacon of progress." - [METNMAT RESEARCH AND INNOVATION]

3. Evolution of Metal Manufacturing Techniques

The annals of metal manufacturing are adorned with a story of relentless innovation and technological prowess. The evolution of techniques from labor-intensive processes to precision-driven methodologies is a captivating journey that mirrors humanity's quest for perfection. Gone are the days of hammer and anvil as digital fabrication technologies have taken center stage. The marriage of computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) has birthed a new era of digital craftsmanship, where intricate designs come to life with unparalleled accuracy and speed.

4. Technological Advancements Driving Smart Metal Manufacturing

The dawn of the fourth industrial revolution has cast a transformative spell on the realm of manufacturing. Metal manufacturing, in particular, has been a willing participant in this digital renaissance. The infusion of sensors, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and data analytics has given rise to a new era of smart metal manufacturing. This paradigm shift empowers manufacturers with real-time insights, predictive maintenance capabilities, and the ability to fine-tune processes for optimal efficiency. The convergence of technology and metallurgy has bestowed upon us a realm where precision meets intelligence, and where waste is minimized through data-driven decision-making.

5. The Role of Skilled Workforce in Metal Manufacturing

While technology orchestrates the symphony of modern metal manufacturing, it is the skilled workforce that wields the baton. Behind the curtain of automation and innovation, there exists a cohort of talented individuals whose expertise ensures the seamless orchestration of complex processes. Engineers, technicians, and designers collaborate harmoniously to breathe life into raw materials, sculpting them into works of art that power our modern world. The symphony of metal manufacturing requires not only the instruments of technology but also the virtuosity of skilled human hands.

6. Sustainable Practices in Metal Manufacturing

Amidst the backdrop of escalating environmental concerns, the concept of sustainability has permeated virtually every facet of human endeavor. Metal manufacturing, with its historical reputation for resource-intensive processes, has not been impervious to this shift. However, the sector has responded with remarkable ingenuity, embracing sustainable practices that echo a commitment to both innovation and environmental stewardship.

The adoption of sustainable practices in metal manufacturing spans various dimensions. One notable avenue is the recycling of scrap metal. In an era where responsible resource utilization is paramount, the recycling of scrap metal not only conserves precious resources but also curtails the environmental impact of mining and extraction. The metamorphosis of discarded metal into raw material breathes new life into the production cycle, reducing energy consumption and minimizing waste.

Moreover, energy efficiency has become a cornerstone of sustainable metal manufacturing. From the optimization of heating and cooling systems to the deployment of energy-efficient technologies, manufacturers are meticulously recalibrating their processes to minimize energy consumption. This not only translates into cost savings but also contributes to a greener and more environmentally conscious industry.

7. Regional Smart Specialization: Boosting Economic Growth

In an era characterized by unprecedented globalization and interconnectedness, regions seek strategies that can catapult them onto the global stage. Enter the concept of smart specialization. This strategic approach involves concentrating resources and efforts on areas of expertise, thereby fostering economic growth and innovation. Metal manufacturing emerges as an alluring candidate for smart specialization, harnessing its multifaceted applications and demanding technological landscape.

The synergy between regional strengths and metal manufacturing is a symbiotic relationship that begets economic prosperity. By aligning a region's existing industrial prowess with the demands of metal manufacturing, a unique competitive advantage is forged. This advantage, coupled with strategic investments in research, development, and education, positions regions as formidable players in the global market. The allure of specialized metal products, coupled with a technologically adept workforce, becomes a potent recipe for attracting investment, generating employment, and fueling economic expansion.

8. Case Studies: Successful Implementation of Metal Manufacturing Specialization

The theoretical underpinnings of smart specialization find tangible expression in real-world case studies. Several regions have harnessed the potential of metal manufacturing specialization, leading to transformative outcomes. One such compelling example is the resurrection of a declining industrial town through the establishment of a cutting-edge metal research and production hub.

This case study highlights the transformative power of deliberate specialization. By identifying and capitalizing on latent potential, this region was able to transition from the throes of economic decline to becoming a thriving center of innovation. The infusion of research institutions, collaboration between academia and industry, and the cultivation of a skilled workforce converged to breathe new life into the region. The success story underscores the significance of strategic metal manufacturing specialization in rejuvenating stagnant economies and fostering resilience.

In the upcoming segments of this article, we will delve into the challenges that underlie the path to metal manufacturing specialization, gaze into the crystal ball to discern future prospects, and ultimately, draw our conclusions from the symphony of insights presented.

9. Challenges and Future Prospects

While the journey of metal manufacturing as a smart specialization is marked by resounding successes, it is not without its share of challenges. These challenges, however, are not roadblocks but rather stepping stones that beckon the industry toward an even brighter future.

Challenge 1: Global Competition and Innovation In a world characterized by seamless connectivity, metal manufacturing faces the challenge of global competition. As regions vie to establish themselves as hubs of specialization, the competition intensifies. To remain at the vanguard, continuous innovation becomes imperative. The industry must relentlessly push the boundaries of technology, embracing novel processes, materials, and design paradigms. Innovation not only sustains competitiveness but also kindles the spark of differentiation that sets pioneers apart.

Challenge 2: Skilled Workforce Development The symbiotic relationship between technology and skilled human capital is pivotal in the realm of metal manufacturing. However, nurturing and maintaining a skilled workforce is a multifaceted challenge. The industry must bridge the gap between academia and industry, ensuring that educational curricula align with the demands of modern metal manufacturing. Furthermore, the allure of other sectors and the aging workforce pose recruitment challenges. A concerted effort toward attracting and retaining talent is imperative to keep the wheels of specialization turning.

Challenge 3: Sustainability Imperatives While sustainable practices have found a home in metal manufacturing, the journey toward comprehensive environmental stewardship is ongoing. Striking a balance between resource utilization, energy efficiency, and waste reduction remains a complex endeavor. Technological innovations will play a pivotal role in overcoming these challenges, enabling the industry to ascend to new heights of sustainable production.

Challenge 4: Regulatory Landscape The metal manufacturing sector operates within a regulatory framework that demands compliance with environmental standards, safety protocols, and labor regulations. Navigating this intricate landscape can be arduous, particularly for smaller enterprises. Adaptation to evolving regulations and the proactive embrace of compliance becomes paramount to ensure the industry's sustained growth.

Future Prospects: A Vision of Promise The path ahead for metal manufacturing as a smart specialization is imbued with promise and potential. As technology continues to advance, the industry stands on the precipice of transformative breakthroughs. Additive manufacturing, nanotechnology, and advanced materials hold the keys to unlocking new frontiers of possibility. The fusion of these innovations with sustainable practices not only bolsters the industry's competitive edge but also paves the way for a more environmentally conscious and socially responsible future.

Conclusion

In conclusion, metal manufacturing has evolved into a smart specialization strategy that propels regions toward economic prosperity. Its fusion of traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology exemplifies human ingenuity at its finest.

"In the crucible of smart specialization, metal manufacturing reshapes regions into hubs of innovation." - [METNMAT RESEARCH AND INNOVATION]

FAQs

What is smart specialization in the context of metal manufacturing? Smart specialization in metal manufacturing refers to the strategic focus on this sector to drive regional economic growth and innovation.

How does technology contribute to sustainable metal manufacturing? Technology enables energy-efficient processes, waste reduction, and the use of eco-friendly materials in metal manufacturing.

What role does a skilled workforce play in metal manufacturing? A skilled workforce is essential for operating advanced machinery, designing innovative products, and driving continuous improvement.

Can regions with limited metal resources benefit from metal manufacturing specialization? Yes, regions can leverage technology, innovation, and collaboration to overcome resource limitations and create a successful metal manufacturing specialization.

What does the future hold for metal manufacturing as a smart specialization? The future looks promising as technology advances, enabling more efficient, sustainable, and globally competitive metal manufacturing practices.

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[fanservices123]

[materialsscienceandengineering]

Manganese cathodes could boost lithium-ion batteries

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are growing in adoption, used in devices like smartphones and laptops, electric vehicles, and energy storage systems. But supplies of nickel and cobalt commonly used in the cathodes of these batteries are limited. New research led by the Department of Energy's Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) opens up a potential low-cost, safe alternative in manganese, the fifth most abundant metal in the Earth's crust. Researchers showed that manganese can be effectively used in emerging cathode materials called disordered rock salts, or DRX. Previous research suggested that to perform well, DRX materials had to be ground down to nanosized particles in an energy-intensive process. But the new study found that manganese-based cathodes can actually excel with particles that are about 1,000 times larger than expected.

Read more.

[horizontitanium]

The properties of metals are determined by their metallurgy, and for applications such as medical use, these properties must be optimized. To achieve this, international standards specify the required microstructure. Two key standards for medical titanium materials are ASTM F136 and ISO 5832-3.

ISO 5832-3 defines microstructure classes with specific alpha and beta morphologies and phase distributions, detailed through micrographs. In contrast, ASTM F136 outlines microstructure requirements without specifying exact classes or providing micrographs, thus omitting precise details on alpha and beta phase distributions.

To illustrate this, consider the example of the color blue. ASTM F136 broadly accepts any shade of blue for medical applications. However, ISO 5832-3 specifies exact color codes, categorizing shades from Class Sr. No. A1 to A9, and thus sets rigorous microstructure requirements for medical grades. ASTM F136 lacks this level of detail and does not categorize shades of blue, merely stating that any blue is acceptable for medical use.

Therefore, adhering to the ISO 5832-3 standard is crucial for ensuring the precise microstructure requirements in Titanium materials needed for medical device manufacturing.

To know more about the importance of microstructure in titanium materials for medical applications, write us at info@horizontitanium.com

[mindblowingscience]

The constant ebb and flow of hormones that guide the menstrual cycle don't just affect reproductive anatomy. They also reshape the brain, and a new study has given us insight into how this happens. Led by neuroscientists Elizabeth Rizor and Viktoriya Babenko of the University of California Santa Barbara, a team of researchers tracked 30 women who menstruate over their cycles, documenting in detail the structural changes that take place in the brain as hormonal profiles fluctuate. The results, which are yet to be peer-reviewed but can be found on preprint server bioRxiv, suggest that structural changes in the brain during menstruation may not be limited to those regions associated with the menstrual cycle. "These results are the first to report simultaneous brain-wide changes in human white matter microstructure and cortical thickness coinciding with menstrual cycle-driven hormone rhythms," the researchers write.

Continue Reading.

[hoofpeet]

Hello!! Kind of random LMAO but im a zooarchaeologist (archaeologist who studies animals in the archaeological record) who wants to study sheep and goats!! Also cows and deer, but I know you're big on the former; do you have any resources (books, articles, blogs, websites, etc) youd recommend reading to get more informed? Sorry this is such a bizzare ask, but figure id ask you! Also as an artist, i adore your art sm <3.

Ouuhhh I mean honestly. Despite being autistic about bovines I am definitely still kinda dumb about them (-also adding that my specific area of interest is closer to like. Animal husbandry/history) So ngl doing ANY reading at an academic level means you probably already know more than I do but uhm. If it's an interesting read anyway here's misc stuff I've had bookmarked in the ruminant folder for a while in no particular order:

"Microstructure and mechanical properties of different keratinous horns"

Judas goats

Good list of different types of sheep

Different good list

List of goat breeds from the same site

Video about the history of sheep domestication (from a podcast series on sheep!)

"Churro Wool: How the Spanish Brought Sheep to the Americas"

Livestockconservancy.org - Good resource for endangered + heritage breeds

"Sheep and wheat domestication in Southwest Asia"

On ruminant evolution in general

"Evolution of ruminant headgear"

Hoof anatomy/maintenance

[covid-safer-hotties]

Also preserved on our archive

ByCarly Cassella

Fatigue is one of the most frequent and debilitating symptoms of long COVID, and yet it is also one of the hardest to measure objectively.

A new study suggests the extreme mental and physical fatigue experienced by many long COVID patients is, in fact, observable in the central nervous system.

Scanning the brains of 127 long COVID patients, scientists found some parts of the brain were communicating with others in a slightly altered way.

These regions include the frontal lobe, the temporal lobe, and the cerebellum, and while it's not clear how long the changes might last, the pattern could be used to identify those battling ongoing fatigue.

"These findings suggest a role of central nervous system involvement in the pathophysiology of fatigue in post-COVID syndrome," write researchers at the Complutense University of Madrid in Spain.

"The existence of several brain characteristics associated with fatigue severity detected by magnetic resonance imaging could constitute a neuroimaging biomarker to objectively evaluate this symptom in clinical trials."

The frontal lobe is the part of the brain associated with higher executive functions, like planning, reasoning, and problem solving. Meanwhile, the temporal lobe is associated with memory and processing, and the cerebellum is linked to movement, posture, and balance.

All three areas have previously shown changes in connectivity among patients with chronic fatigue syndrome or myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME).

CFS/ME comes with many of the same symptoms as long COVID; however, it remains unclear how the two illnesses relate.

Recent findings suggest brain changes associated with long COVID mirror those of CFS/ME, but further research using larger and more diverse sample sizes is needed.

The new study on long COVID, led by neuropsychologist Maria Diez-Cirarda, does not consider CFS/ME, but it analyzes the brain scans of 127 people who had contracted SARS-CoV-2 at least three months before. Around 74 percent of participants were female, and most had only been sick with COVID-19 once.

Roughly 87 percent reported symptoms of global fatigue, including physical or mental fatigue, and 86 percent said they were suffering from cognitive complaints, like memory, attention, or processing issues.

Ultimately, those with global fatigue, physical fatigue, or cognitive complaints showed reduced connectivity between the frontal and occipital brain regions. They also showed increased connectivity between the cerebellar and temporal areas.

Mental fatigue, however, stood out. It was associated with distinct changes in the left prefrontal areas, the anterior cingulate, and the left insula – the central hubs of a known mental fatigue network.

Changes to white matter were also found in the brains of long COVID patients with lingering fatigue. White matter contains the nerve fibers that connect neurons, and these are covered in white sheaths, which protect and allow messages to be sent faster.

In long COVID patients, the recent study suggests that physical and mental fatigue is "partly related to several microstructural changes, including demyelination."

Demyelination is when the insulating sheath that protects neurons and transmits electrical signals is damaged, resulting in reduced functionality, such as muscle weakness, blurry vision, or slurred speech.

Interestingly, the current brain study found no changes in gray matter, which contains the bodies of neurons. Previous studies have shown reduced gray matter in COVID patients, but this shrinkage was recorded during or shortly after an infection, and it may not last over the longer term.

Given how malleable the brain can be, it's important that future studies investigate the changes of long COVID over greater lengths of time. Further research could also investigate how fatigue due to long COVID compares to other conditions, like ME/CFS or multiple sclerosis.

"The involvement of the central nervous system in the pathophysiology of fatigue in post-COVID syndrome paves the way for the use of non-invasive brain stimulation techniques to alleviate fatigue in these patients," the researchers conclude.

The study was published in Psychiatry Research.

Study Link: www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0165178124003986?via%3Dihub

[odinsblog]

The iridescence of an Anna's hummingbird's feathers is caused by the way light reflects off the feather's microstructure, which changes depending on the viewing angle.

[artechoceneexplorer]

ODDYSEUS_MISSION_AE#1744

Sample obtained from the Odysseus mission, sent to gather information about the planet Kepler-138d, a super-earth water world characteristic for its dense, water saturated atmosphere, and whose clouds occasionally appear green.

The mystery of these green clouds has finally been resolved with this analysis of samples that were collected from one of these green clouds as the rover descended into the atmosphere, 15km up in the clouds.

A diverse community of cyanobacteria-like phototrophic microbes (described as Ambrosiasphaera sp.) seems to be responsible for the unusual color of the clouds. These microbes, alongside the many others in the floating ecosystem they help support, seem to have developed hydrogen filled membranous organelles to float over the dense atmosphere. They also seem to have developed a cell wall with an unusual microstructure, extremely water absorbing to take advantage of floating droplets of water.

Some species seem to have developed predatory lifestyles, feeding on the plentiful Ambrosiasphaera chains, here seen one of these lifestyles, here seen one with one of the most unusual ways observed to catch and consume prey (described as Flagellovenator sp.). It floats passively with its flagellum extended, until it comes into contact with something. The appendix is covered in hairs not unlike those on the feet of Gekkonids, able to stick without any sticky substance needed. Once captured, it's bivalves cell wall opens and an amoeboid body penetrates the cell wall and starts digesting it's prey.