Category: Innovation

EnergyInnovation

Private Investment in Fusion Energy Nears $10 Billion as Commercial Timeline Questions Loom

Fusion energy has attracted nearly $10 billion in private investment over the past five years, with multiple companies claiming they could supply commercial power within a decade. The surge in funding comes amid growing climate concerns and technological advances, though significant engineering challenges remain. Industry analysts suggest the ambitious timeline faces substantial hurdles despite recent scientific breakthroughs.

Fusion Investment Surge

Private sector funding for fusion power has exploded over the past five years, with total investment approaching $10 billion, according to industry reports. Sources indicate this capital infusion comes from a combination of venture capital firms, deep-tech investors, energy corporations, and sovereign governments. The majority of companies and funding are concentrated in the United States, though activity is reportedly increasing in China and Europe as well.

by Tyler Brooks P.E
Assistive TechnologyInnovation

Laser-Enhanced Cork Sensor Detects Harmful Preservatives in Beverages

Researchers in Brazil have created an innovative sensor using laser-modified cork that can identify potentially harmful sodium nitrite in beverages. The sustainable detection method offers a low-cost solution for monitoring food safety and quality control in drinks including wine, orange juice, and mineral water.

Breakthrough in Food Safety Detection

Researchers from the Federal University of São Carlos in Brazil have developed an innovative sensor capable of detecting sodium nitrite in various beverages, according to their recently published research. The sensor utilizes laser-modified cork to identify the potentially harmful preservative in drinks including mineral water, orange juice, and wine.

by Megan Carter
Assistive TechnologyInnovation

Ingestible Bioprinting Capsule Emerges as Potential Non-Surgical Treatment for GI Conditions

Researchers have created a swallowable bioprinter the size of a pill that can repair gastrointestinal tissue damage without surgery. The magnetic capsule delivers bio-ink directly to ulcers and hemorrhages, guided entirely by external controls. Early testing shows promising results for treating conditions that currently require invasive procedures.

Breakthrough in Non-Invasive Medical Technology

Researchers from the École polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) School of Engineering have developed what they’re calling the world’s first ingestible bioprinter, according to reports published in the journal Advanced Science. The pill-sized device represents a significant departure from conventional surgical approaches to gastrointestinal repair, potentially offering a non-invasive alternative for treating tissue damage within the gastrointestinal tract.

by Megan Carter