The Elements of Innovation Discovered

Articles written by A.j. Roan


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  • Blue gloved hands holding flexible, transparent circuit powering LEDs.

    Liquid metal magic revolutionizes circuits

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Aug 27, 2024

    Breakthrough technique at NC State creates flexible, nanoscale, transparent circuits using printed metal oxides. Imagine printing transparent circuits at room temperature – no heat, no fancy equipment – just a trail of liquid metal creating a conductive masterpiece. In a breakthrough that feels too simple to be true, scientists have cracked the code on how to print metal oxide films that are both transparent and incredibly durable, opening the door to flexible, high-performanc...

  • An image of a computer screen full of code blocked by a lock.

    Cyber threats put global mining at risk

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Aug 26, 2024

    Cyber threats are no longer an abstract concern for the mining sector; they are an active and evolving danger. Over the past year, a surge in cyberattacks has exposed critical weaknesses in even the most fortified digital infrastructures across nearly every industry. Given the mining sector's fundamental role in the global economy and energy transition, its growing dependence on automation, cloud computing, and interconnected systems has turned this sector into a prime...

  • Rows of cylindrical LEU+ fuel pellets at Westinghouse’s Springfield facility.

    U.S. succeeds in first HALEU production

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Aug 20, 2024

    Westinghouse Electric creates LEU+, a middle-ground to more efficient and safer nuclear fuel. Marking a pivotal milestone that aligns with years of United States government planning to secure domestic nuclear energy resources, Westinghouse Electric Company announced that it has produced its first batch of Low Enriched Uranium Plus (LEU+) fuel pellets, a development that not only marks a significant technological achievement but also strengthens America's push to reduce...

  • Bright green SENNEBOGAN scrap handler at SYNETIQ recycling yard.

    Cyclic expands to Europe with SYNETIQ deal

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Aug 20, 2024

    Brings its recycling technology to U.K.'s leading integrated vehicle salvage and recycling firm. As part of its strategy to advance sustainable recycling practices, Cyclic Materials has signed a collaboration agreement with SYNETIQ, the U.K.'s leading vehicle salvage and recycling company, to recover rare earth elements from electric and hybrid vehicle motors. "This relationship marks Cyclic Materials first overseas feedstock contract, a significant milestone as we continue...

  • ESA astronaut Matthias Maurer doing ISS concrete tests in space.

    NASA astronauts examine Moon-made cement

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Aug 20, 2024

    ISS researchers mix together simulated lunar soil, cement, and water to determine microgravity effects. As NASA eyes the Moon for future habitation, an astronaut aboard the International Space Station is already busy mixing the cement, unraveling the mysteries of its hardening process in microgravity. This critical step could determine how we build resilient structures on the Moon and Mars, inching us closer to a permanent human outpost beyond Earth. Building a permanent...

  • 5G cell tower built at Detour Lake Mine in Ontario, Canada.

    Smart mining advances with 5G networks

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Aug 20, 2024

    Ericsson's networks and Epiroc's tech drive smart mining's future of safety and efficiency. As mining companies seek to improve safety, efficiency, and sustainability, connectivity is proving to be the cornerstone that these advancements hinge upon. Through their ongoing partnership, Ericsson and Epiroc are pushing the boundaries of automation and monitoring in the mining industry by leveraging private 4G and 5G networks, transforming mining operations into more connected and...

  • A display of GMG’s coin cell graphene-aluminum batteries.

    GMG advances graphene-aluminum battery

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Aug 16, 2024

    Refines process toward commercial development with planned advancements and pilot plant. Marking a significant step forward in energy storage technology, Graphene Manufacturing Group Ltd. revealed the latest progress in developing graphene-aluminum-ion batteries, highlighting the company's success in optimizing performance and pushing the boundaries of current battery capabilities. Based out of Australia, GMG has been pioneering advancements in graphene-aluminum battery...

  • Planetary nebula NGC 7294 looks like a giant glowing eye in the cosmos.

    Scientists add minerals to Darwin's theory

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Aug 16, 2024

    Carnegie Science researchers postulate complexity of matter, living or non-living, evolves over time. In a revelation that challenges our understanding of the universe, researchers from Carnegie Science have discovered that minerals may evolve much the same way living organisms do, suggesting that the principles of evolution extend beyond biology, potentially reshaping our perspective on the natural world. This groundbreaking study, published in the journal PNAS Nexus, offers...

  • Photo of the former Fortress paper plant in Thurso, Québec.

    Rio Tinto forms biocarbon venture in Québec

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Aug 13, 2024

    Deepens partnership with Aymium to produce renewable biocarbon at new facility toward the reduction of carbon emissions in metal smelting operations. In an ambitious move toward sustainable industrial practices, Rio Tinto and Aymium have partnered to create Évolys Québec Inc., a joint venture focused on producing renewable metallurgical biocarbon as an alternative to traditional carbon sources used in metal smelting processes. In 2022, Rio Tinto, Steel Dynamics, and Nippon S...

  • Miniature figures jumping between zones on a processor.

    QuTech unveils somersaulting spin qubits

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Aug 13, 2024

    Decades-old theory proved possible as QuTech's "somersaulting" spin qubits simplify control, paving way for scalable quantum computing. Researchers at QuTech have taken a giant leap in quantum computing with the development of "somersaulting" spin qubits, an innovation that simplifies and enhances control of this advanced technology and marks a breakthrough that could revolutionize the construction of powerful quantum processors. Quantum computing, unlike classical computing,...

  • A close-up image of lumps of coal.

    DOE invests more in coal-derived REEs

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Aug 13, 2024

    Funding to support additional research in extracting rare earth elements from coal byproducts, enhancing sustainability and domestic supply. As part of ongoing efforts to bolster domestic supplies of critical minerals, the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management has announced an additional $10 million investment aimed at lowering costs and reducing the environmental impact of producing rare earth elements and other critical minerals from coal...

  • A seismogram being made by a seismograph.

    Earthquake exposes global mineral risks

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Aug 13, 2024

    USGS study brings to light seismic risks to mineral supplies, as powerful earthquake hits Chile's copper and lithium region. On the same day that the United States Geological Survey released a study warning of seismic risks to global mineral supplies, a magnitude 7.3 earthquake struck near Chile's Escondida mine, the world's largest copper mine. This confirms the vulnerability of these resources to earthquakes, emphasizing the potential for significant supply chain...

  • An SSD placed on top of an HDD, which can now be recycled for REEs.

    Microsoft backs Cyclic Materials recycling

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Aug 13, 2024

    Microsoft's Climate Innovation Fund invests in recycling REEs from hard drives. Signaling its commitment to a circular economy, Microsoft has made a notable endorsement by strategically investing in Cyclic Materials, a promising startup in advanced metals recycling. Announced July 16, this move by Microsoft's Climate Innovation Fund highlights the tech giant's interest in sustainable innovation, particularly in recycling rare earth elements (REEs) from computer hard drives....

  • Infograph of battery collection points at Batteries Plus and Staples.

    DOE funds nationwide battery recycling

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Aug 13, 2024

    $14 million initiative will establish more than 1,000 collection points for recycling batteries and electronic devices across the U.S. In an effort to enhance the sustainability of domestic supply chains and reduce e-waste, the U.S. Department of Energy has launched a $14 million initiative to establish more than 1,000 battery recycling collection points for used batteries at Batteries Plus and Staples stores across the nation. "At DOE we're excited to help create a circular,...

  • A row of soldiers lined up, focusing on their distinct footwear.

    GC USA to upgrade boots for U.S. troops

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Aug 13, 2024

    Partners with HEROES and UMass Lowell to develop advanced, American-made military boots using cutting-edge graphene and aerogel technology. Taking a bold step in military innovation, GC Associates USA has partnered with DEVCOM Soldier Center and UMass Lowell to utilize its cutting-edge graphene and aerogel materials for the next generation of U.S. military footwear. GC USA, recognized for its innovative solutions and veteran leadership, has a distinguished history of...

  • The Crew Dragon Endeavor docked and being prepared for launch.

    MIT announces titanium alloy breakthrough

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Aug 13, 2024

    New titanium alloys combine strength and ductility, offering potential advancements for aerospace and biomedical industries. In a breakthrough that could transform multiple industries, Massachusetts Institute of Technology researchers, in collaboration with ATI Specialty Materials, have developed new titanium alloys that break the conventional tradeoff between strength and ductility, potentially revolutionizing applications from aerospace to biomedical equipment. Titanium...

  • Aerial view of Newmont’s Cadia mine in New South Wales, Australia, at dusk.

    Newmont installing 5G at global mines

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Aug 13, 2024

    Following a successful trial run, world's largest gold mining company sees 5G as the future of connectivity at modern mines. Newmont Corp. is set to revolutionize underground mining safety and efficiency following successful 5G trials at its Cadia copper-gold mine in New South Wales, Australia, where next-generation wireless technology delivered unprecedented improvements in network reliability and speed, paving the way for broader deployment across its global operations. As...

  • Ten new mining safety solutions and their innovative companies.

    10 new mining safety technologies emerge

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Jul 16, 2024

    Discover how small, innovative companies are transforming mining safety with cutting-edge technologies. In the ever-evolving mining industry, advanced technologies are revolutionizing safety and operational efficiency. Discover 10 new mining safety innovations and the companies behind them as they lead the way in setting new standards for worker protection. Advanced technologies are transforming mining safety and operational efficiency in remarkable ways. These key...

  • Researchers holding experimental carbon fiber battery cells.

    Carbon fiber batteries: form and function

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Jul 11, 2024

    Tech startup pioneers carbon fiber batteries that can store energy in the body of EVs or aircraft. At the forefront of cutting-edge technology, Sinonus, a spinout from Chalmers Technical University and part of Chalmers Ventures' portfolio, is revolutionizing industries with its breakthrough in carbon fiber technology – energy storage. Well-known for its exceptional strength and light weight, carbon fiber has been used in many products, such as aircraft components, h...

  • Man squats next to TitanSPEE3D arm and nozzle.

    SPEE3D revolutionizing heavy 3D printing

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Jul 11, 2024

    Introduces TitanSPEE3D large format metal 3D printer; able to print up to 4,400 pounds. Joining the ranks of SPEE3D's innovative additive manufacturing lineup, the company will soon unveil TitanSPEE3D, a large-format metal 3D printer engineered to produce heavy, high-quality metal parts quickly and cost-effectively. The rapid and highly effective additive manufacturing capabilities of Australia-based SPEE3D's metal 3D printing technology has grabbed the attention of...

  • An aerial photo of Solvay’s La Rochelle rare earths hub in France.

    Cyclic finalizes rMREO offtake with Solvay

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Jul 11, 2024

    Joint effort aims to bolster Europe's rare earth supply through sustainable recycling. Marking a significant stride toward a sustainable rare earth supply chain, Solvay SA and Cyclic Materials Inc. announced the finalization of a supply agreement for recycled mixed rare earth oxides aimed at enhancing European self-sufficiency for this suite of technology metals. Founded in 2021, Canada-based Cyclic Materials has been pioneering a sustainable approach to rare earths and...

  • Man pouring concrete into framed grid on a building.

    Arizona State validates HydroGraph graphene

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Jul 11, 2024

    "Tests also showed a reduction in global warming potential of 10 to 15%." In a notable advancement for sustainable building materials, HydroGraph Clean Power Inc. announced the publication of a joint study with Arizona State University that validates the performance of its pristine graphene in cement, showcasing improvements in compressive strength and a reduction in global warming potential. According to the European Union-backed research firm Graphene Flagship, integrating...

  • Close-up of an electric vehicle charging station with car in background.

    Merger fuels metal recycling expansion

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Jul 11, 2024

    Merger aims to boost recycling capabilities, enhance the supply chain with critical metals, and drive growth in the electrified economy. Marking a pivotal step toward enhancing the electrified economy, American Resources Corp.'s subsidiary, American Metals LLC, has inked a definitive business combination agreement with AI Transportation Acquisition Corp. American Metals has evolved into a dynamic arm of American Resources Corp., a multifaceted company now spearheading sectors...

  • Steam venting out of a nuclear power plant.

    US launches major nuclear fuel initiative

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Jul 11, 2024

    DOE announces $2.7 billion funding to boost U.S. nuclear fuel production, aims to replace Russian imports and enhance energy security. In a major stride toward energy independence, the U.S. Department of Energy has announced a $2.7 billion initiative under President Biden's Investing in America agenda to revitalize the nation's nuclear fuel supply chain, severing ties with Russian imports and fortifying domestic energy security. Over the past few years, DOE has taken several...

  • Rio Tinto logo on a hard hat with two workers in the background.

    Canada ushers in carbon-free aluminum

    A.J. Roan, Metal Tech News|Updated Jul 2, 2024

    Rio Tinto partners with Québec to deploy ELYSIS at Arvida smelter, revolutionizing aluminum production by eliminating GHG emissions. Taking a significant leap in decarbonizing the aluminum industry, Rio Tinto is installing carbon-free smelting cells at its Arvida smelter in Québec. Using the groundbreaking ELYSIS technology, this project is a joint venture with the government of Québec and marks the first commercial deployment of this revolutionary technology. The pr...

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