Micro-algal fuels might be one way to reduce our dependency on fossil fuels, and they could reduce carbon dioxide emissions since they use photosynthesis.  Sandia National Laboratories researcher has engineered two strains of cyanobacteria to produce free fatty acids, a precursor to liquid fuels, but she has also found that the process cuts the bacteria’s… »

Robotic hands are regarded as one the most complex parts of the robotic system. Complexity due to many joints and embedded sensors, combined with need to maintain their light weight and dexterity, lead to high prices of robotic hands. Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories managed to develop a modular and affordable robotic hand meant to… »

When a mining accident occurs, potentially deadly conditions such as poisonous gases, flooded tunnels, explosive vapors, unstable walls and roofs, and unknown obstacles between the surface and trapped workers can significantly slow the rescue efforts. Engineers at Sandia National Laboratories developed the Gemini-Scout Mine Rescue Robot in order to collects information about potential dangers and… »

Battery developers know that recharging and using lithium batteries over and over damages the electrode materials. Researchers at the DOE’s Environmental Molecular Sciences Lab on the Pacific Northwest National Lab (PNNL) grounds have been observing how nanowires composed of tin oxide rapidly change shape and deform when they are being charged. “Nanowires of tin oxide… »