Phase-changing materials in trial to preserve vaccines
Novel materials that fit inside a vaccine-carrying box could help prevent vaccines spoiling before use.
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Top tech breakthroughs of 2012
11 January 2013 | EN | 中文
The year saw several technological discoveries with applications in development
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Potato batteries, wind-powered mine detectors, smart waterpumps… SciDev.Net revisits some of the best inventions of 2012.
Fascinating innovations come from around the world, and aim to tackle a range of development issues, from cutting the risk of disasters and disease, to helping people with disabilities access information and bringing energy to remote areas.
Nipple device could deliver drugs to babies
A silicone nipple shield primed with medicines could help protect breastfeeding babies from HIV and other diseases.
Potato and plantain batteries show promise
Researchers in Saudi Arabia and Sri Lanka say potato and plantain are both strong candidates for producing cheap, efficient batteries.
Indian designer develops Morse-based texting for deaf phone users
Hearing and sight impaired mobile phone users could benefit from a texting application based on Morse code.
Earthquake-resistant table could save lives
A table designed to stay upright under a tonne of debris could provide shelter in an earthquake, say its Israeli designers.
X-ray technology harnessed to grow more nutritious crops
Rwandan agriculture researchers are using an X-ray technique developed by the mining sector to improve the nutrition value of beans.
Wind-powered landmine detector developed
An Afghan designer has invented a wind-powered mine detector that could significantly reduce the cost of clearing minefields.
Students develop software to monitor unborn babies
A group of Ugandan students have hooked up a smartphone to a traditional listening horn to monitor babies in the womb.
Radar technology 'could dramatically increase tsunami warning times'
Researchers in the US have unveiled new technology which could significantly increase tsunami detection capabilities.
Researchers design 'smart' waterpumps for rural Africa
A UK team has developed 'smart' water pumps using mobile phone technology to communicate faults to engineers, to improve water access in Africa.
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See also: Top controversies of 2012
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18 May 2013