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The Future of 3D Printing and Healthcare

When it comes to 3D printing, the sky is the limit. As 3D printing technology continues to advance, applications can be as far reaching as  airplane  and  automobile parts  to medical devices and even anatomically correct, biocompatible models. Although 3D printing technology is developing at a rapid pace, the technology itself is not new. It emerged in  the 1980s  as a means of creating rapid prototypes. In recent years the applications for 3D printed models have evolved with the available hardware, software, and printable materials. Evolving technology, paired with the creative and innovative minds of scientists, engineers, and physicians, has been the launching pad for developments within 3D printing technology specific to healthcare. One way 3D printing technology is poised to create better patient outcomes is in creating an anatomically and  patient-specific models  to aid in surgery and medical procedures. With the capability to 3D ...
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Graphene oxide combines with perovskite quantum dots to create artificial photosynthesis



Perovskites and GO make for an efficient photocatalyst image

 Researchers from Sun Yat-Sen University in China have created a composite of graphene oxide and perovskitequantum dots that can reduce CO2 when stimulated with light. It is referred to as the first known example of artificial photosynthesis based on perovskite quantum dots and GO.
The team prepared quantum dots – semiconductor nanoparticles – of a highly stable cesium–lead halide perovskite, as well as a composite material made of these quantum dots and graphene oxide. Both materials showed an efficient absorption of visible light and strong luminescence. The team used these products to achieve a fundamental step in artificial photosynthesis – the reduction of CO2. To simulate sunlight, they used a xenon lamp with an appropriate filter.
Perovskite quantum dot photocatalysts reportedly surpassed the efficiency of cadmium sulfide and other state-of-the-art materials in the conversion of CO2 to carbon monoxide and methane. The synergetic effect of the composite was also demonstrated – when combined with graphene oxide, perovskite QDs achieved photocatalytic performances 26% higher than QDs alone. According to the team, graphene oxide boosts the efficiency of the QDs ‘improving the charge separation and transportation.’

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The Future of 3D Printing and Healthcare

When it comes to 3D printing, the sky is the limit. As 3D printing technology continues to advance, applications can be as far reaching as  airplane  and  automobile parts  to medical devices and even anatomically correct, biocompatible models. Although 3D printing technology is developing at a rapid pace, the technology itself is not new. It emerged in  the 1980s  as a means of creating rapid prototypes. In recent years the applications for 3D printed models have evolved with the available hardware, software, and printable materials. Evolving technology, paired with the creative and innovative minds of scientists, engineers, and physicians, has been the launching pad for developments within 3D printing technology specific to healthcare. One way 3D printing technology is poised to create better patient outcomes is in creating an anatomically and  patient-specific models  to aid in surgery and medical procedures. With the capability to 3D ...
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Virginia Tech Students Create Foldable Bike Helmets

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