USQ develops lava-like fireproof coating – video

University of Southern Queensland researchers have developed a fire retardant coating for building materials that mimics the properties of volcanic lava. Chemical engineer and Australian Research Council Future Fellow, Professor Pingan Song developed the non-toxic, fire extinguishing ceramic coating that could save buildings from being engulfed in flames. Professor Song said lava sparked his idea…

Pore performance: RMIT/CSIRO team develop new copper type with remarkable antibacterial properties

A team of researchers has boosted the effectiveness of copper against bacteria, acting 120 times faster in killing golden staph, which they believe could lead to a diverse set of product applications. The team from RMIT University and CSIRO published their work, titled ‘Robust bulk micro-nano hierarchical copper structures possessing exceptional bactericidal efficacy,in the journal…

NIOA sets itself up for arms development in Lithgow

By Peter Roberts Fast-growing firearms, weapons and ammunition manufacturer NIOA has set itself up for expansion of its operations to the historic defence manufacturing region of Lithgow in New South Wales with the purchase of an important home and land in the regional city. NIOA has purchased historic Lidsdale House (pictured) which sits on a…