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Photos of a sample of blue-dyed water freezing, generating enough pressure to crack its glass container.  (Source: Menno Demmenie/ UvA)
Frost Damage

Why Bottles Shatter in the Freezer — And How to Prevent It

Ever wondered why your frozen water bottle cracks, even when it’s only half full? Scientists at the University of Amsterdam have cracked the mystery. Their research reveals that pockets of trapped liquid create extreme pressure as they freeze, strong enough to break glass. The solution? Smaller bottles and water-repellent surfaces can prevent the problem.

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With full freedom of motion, new device can generate a variety of sensations, including pulling, stretching, sliding, vibrations, pressure and twisting. (Source: John A. Rogers/ Northwestern University)
Touch the Future

Wearable Device Mimics the Complexity of Human Touch

What if your skin could feel virtual silk, sense direction, or even hear music? While most haptics are stuck on simple buzzes, Northwestern engineers have cracked the code to complex touch. Their new device doesn’t just vibrate — it stretches, twists, slides, and taps, bringing the full language of touch into the digital age.

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