Using HLRS’s Hawk supercomputer, University of Stuttgart scientists have for the first time produced high-resolution simulation data characterizing the transition from low to high Reynolds numbers in turbulent boundary layers.

Researchers at The University of Texas at El Paso have demonstrated how nanotechnology can significantly improve biofuel production from microalgae. Their study, recently published in ACS Applied Bio Materials, focuses on Chlorella vulgaris, a fast-growing species commonly found in freshwater environments.

A new machine, the first of its kind in Europe, allows users to visualise what happens when tiny particles hit a surface three times faster than a bullet. This information will enable engineers to make better materials and coatings for aircraft parts, medical implants, and for simulating intergalactic collisions.

Up to now, underwater navigation for divers has been limited primarily to orientation at distinctive points or compass navigation. Although there are concepts that, similar to a sonar, are intended to enable position determination using acoustic signal sources, these require a high sound pressure level. This affects the ecosystem and causes stress for the local fauna. In the FFG project ScubaPOIs, a team led by Philipp Berglez from the Institute of Geodesy at Graz University of Technology (TU Graz) has now developed a system that uses GNSS-supported buoys that emit electromagnetic signals to enable precise positioning underwater without harming animals. Using a head-up display in their masks, divers can find their way to the desired destinations and back to the dive boat or around restricted areas. In addition, they can always be found in an emergency. In addition to TU Graz, pentamap GmbH, 1st-Relief GmbH, Oxygen Scientific GmbH, Disaster Competence Network Austria and the Austrian Centre for Research Diving were also involved in the project.