We may not think of it as much when gas is cheap, but there are many economic and environmental reasons to transition away from fossil fuels. See the biofuels reactor that RTI International researchers are using to create gasoline-like hydrocarbon fuels from plant material and the challenges of creating biofuels.
Engineering
Let There Be Light
The United Nations estimates that 1.4 billion people worldwide don't have electric light. See how a Charlotte company's easy-to-use solar power system is lighting many homes and clinics in the developing world.
Space Scoop
See the new device NASA is testing to chip pieces off an asteroid. The new tool for astronauts was not developed in NASA labs, but rather at High Point University right here in North Carolina. Scientists are interested in asteroids because they haven't changed much since the dawn of the solar system. Asteroid fragments that the "chip and ship" could capture would help give scientists an early picture of the solar system.
Modeling Your World
Watch researchers at the National Environmental Modeling and Analysis Center in Asheville use computers and graphics to model future land use and climate.
Mechatronics
Mechatronics blends principles of design and engineering to create the most innovative, economical, appropriate and elegant solutions to engineering problems. Watch engineers and students from NC State University and UNC Asheville put mechatronics into action.
What A Face
UNC Wilmington researchers build new facial recognition technology with a wide range of applications, including health and national security.
Sittin' at the Bottom of the Bay
Scientists tackle a number of coastal challenges that stem from shifting sediment that fills transport channels in the Pamlico Sound, including managing dredged materials to make room for ferries, uncovering items of cultural importance, and preserving valuable sea grass.
Biltmore Science
George Vanderbilt pushed the technology envelope when building Biltmore Estate, and his descendants still promote technology with a solar farm. The estate also raises canola and collects cooking oil from restaurants to make biodiesel fuel.
Biologic Logic
Biogen scientists in Research Triangle Park engineer biologic medicines, which are produced by living cells, making them a challenge to develop and manufacture, but it is a process with amazing results.
State of Emissions, State of Energy
North Carolina Has Big Decisions Coming in the Future of Emissions and Offshore Energy
October 26, 2015