Supply Chain News & Analysis

These Risk Factors Worry Manufacturers the Most

The survey covers firms in the food manufacturing, transportation, fabricated metals, machinery, plastics and rubber segments. Factors are ranked by order of frequency cited in 10-K filings with the SEC.

Laser Optics Designed to Etch, Cut Thin Metals

Carbon dioxide laser optics are optimized for cutting and etching thin metals when fabricating filters, strainers and related applications.

Roomba Collecting Consumer Information to Sell

iRobot, the makers of Roomba, want to help make your home more sophisticated and “smart” by selling the information it gathers while it cleans.

Standoff Fasteners Hold PCBs Without Screws

Standoff fasteners hold PCBs securely in assemblies without requiring mating screws or other loose threaded hardware to complete attachment.

3D Printing Prosthetics on the Cheap

Inspired to help after a 2015 earthquake in Nepal, a non-profit tech startup is making functional and affordable prosthetic hands using a 3D printer.

Sensors to 'Sound' the Alarm

The sensors can detect hydrogen sulphide (toxic industrial gas) and heat and low humidity (characteristics of forest fires).

Satellite to Monitor Global Air Pollution Levels

In addition, the satellite may also provide information concerning volcanic ash concentrations and levels of UV radiation.

Rush Hour Air Pollution Inside Cars Worse Than Previously Thought

Researchers determined that commuters were exposed to twice as much harmful particulate matter during rush hour than previously thought. Additionally, the researchers found that the chemicals linked to oxidative stress (thought to be related to the development of various diseases such as cancer and heart disease) were also double what was previously thought.

Sharks, Whales May Solve Problems Plaguing the Shipping Industry

A University of Portsmouth, U.K., marine biologist is looking to nature for solutions to problems plaguing both the environment and the shipping industry.

3-D Printed Sensor to Help Fight Against Waterborne Illnesses

A 3-D printed device that can monitor drinking water in real time has been created by a team of researchers from the University of British Columbia Okanagan Campus.

Research Taking Bite Out of Bat Population

Concerned that too many bats of varying species are being killed off in the name of science, a group of scientists are calling for other methods to safely study the creatures.

Dispersed Wind Farms Can Ease Production Swings

A new study says that balancing capacity across the continent would effectively minimize the fluctuations caused by the varied weather conditions that currently affect wind speeds.

Pouches Kill E. Coli, Other Pathogens

The inexpensive pouch, which releases chlorine dioxide gas eliminating E. coli and other illness-causing pathogens from fruits and vegetables, is made up of a semi-permeable membrane that allows for a controlled venting of the gas.

Syringes Polluting Recreational Areas, Bodies of Water

Discarded syringes from heroin drug users are beginning to accumulate in unexpected recreational areas and bodies of water, both polluting the environment and presenting a “sticking” danger to people frequenting these areas, according to reports.

Global Warming Responsible for Losses in Wine Industry?

Working in conditions of up to 36 degrees Celsius, productivity of grape pickers in the wine industry is affected by higher temperatures, as the heat impacts their metabolic and cardiovascular systems, lowering their output.

Contracts Let for UK High-Speed Rail Project

The $8.63 billion Phase One is due for completion in 2026. Work extending the line should be completed by 2027.

Making Polycarbonates from Lemon

Because many everyday products are produced using polycarbonates (for instance, airplane windows and phone cases), several million tons of polycarbonate are created globally each year. Wanting to cut down on the amount of BPA used in the production of polycarbonates, researchers discovered a substitute.

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