The secret behind a flea’s superhuman jumping ability could soon be protecting patients from dangerous post-surgery infections. Scientists at RMIT University have harnessed resilin — the stretchy protein that lets fleas leap more than 100 times their own height — to create a coating that completely blocks bacteria from sticking to medical implants. The breakthrough…
Today in our Celebrating Australian Made series, we learn about Infinispark, which helps apprentice electricians learn their trade. Nicholas Way spoke to founder Husnen Rupani about how he saw a gap in the market for practical training gear. From an electrical trades teacher to running a thriving business that manufactures the equipment that ensures the…
Speaking on the @AuManufacturing Conversations podcast recently, Dr Joe Berry from the University of Melbourne and Dr Peter Sherrell from RMIT explained how they observed that when a water droplet becomes stuck on a tiny bump or rough spot, the force builds up until it “jumps or slips” past the obstacle, creating an irreversible electrical charge that had not been reported before.
RMIT University says a new pyrolysis method developed with South East Water, Intelligent Water Networks and other water authorities could enable better-priced, more sustainable bio-oils for industrial use. According to a statement from the university on Thursday, the PYROCO process can turn biosolids (treated sewage) into biochar with the right properties to act as a…
A major breakthrough in liquid catalysis is transforming how essential products are made, making the chemical manufacturing process faster, safer and more sustainable than ever before. Researchers from Monash University, the University of Sydney, and RMIT University have developed a liquid catalyst that could transform chemical production across a range of industries – from pharmaceuticals…
An RMIT University spinout business, established in 2013 and producing early fault detection (EFD) systems, has opened a new factory in Richmond. According to a statement from RMIT on Thursday, IND Technology is expected to generate millions in exports from Victoria, with its EFD system comprising “parts made almost entirely in Melbourne.” IND was founded…
Researchers discover way to safely destroy PFAS An Australian-led team of international scientists have shown how harmful per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) can be safely destroyed, in a world-first study to trace the entire chain of chemical reactions as PFAS break down during incineration. Researchers from CSIRO, the University of Newcastle, Colorado State University and…
By Rajkishore Nayak, RMIT University Vietnam and Donna Cleveland, RMIT University Vietnam If you’ve ever made kombucha, you will be familiar with the term SCOBY – a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast. It’s impossible to miss – it’s the floating biofilm on top of your delicious drink. While a SCOBY looks gross, it is remarkably…
MIQ grant applications close on Friday The state government has reminded those interested that they have until 1 pm on January 24 (Friday) to make submissions for round seven of the Made in Queensland Grant Program. “Over 150 advanced manufacturing projects have already been supported, with the program set to create 5,000+ jobs in the…
Melbourne’s RMIT University has launched the Centre for Atomaterials and Nanomanufacturing (CAN) to work with industry to commercialise nanomaterials. Led by Distinguished Professor Baohua Jia (pictured), CAN will drive the translation of atomaterial research to support industry and Australia’s transition to a circular economy. Distinguished Professor Jia said: “Atomaterials are microscopic materials about one millionth…