World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development

The World Engineering Day for Sustainable Development was proclaimed by UNESCO at its 40th General Conference in 2019. It is celebrated worldwide on 4th March of each year since 2020 as a UNESCO international day of celebration of engineers and engineering.

The day offers an opportunity to highlight engineers and engineering’s achievements in our modern world and improve public understanding of how engineering and technology are central to modern life and for sustainable development.

Today we celebrate some IMPACT research highlights over the last twelve months in response to COVID-19:

How to cut COVID-19 risk in the car – researchers reveal best methods

Professor Chenfeng Li et al identified key COVID-19 safety measures for car journeys through their study on optimal car ventilation.  Findings suggest all windows should be open for car travel below 30mph.  However, once speed increases above this, it is more effective for only two opposite windows, one in the front and one in the back, to be opened – occasionally – to create a diagonal flow of air.

Researchers have laid out a step-by-step guide to reduce exposure to the coronavirus when travelling by car.

Nanoplastics and other harmful pollutants found within disposable face masks

Dr Sarper Sarp et al have uncovered potentially dangerous chemical pollutants that are released from disposable face masks when submerged in water.  The research reveals high levels of pollutants, including lead, antimony, and copper, within the silicon-based and plastic fibres of common disposable face masks.

Microscope images of particles found in disposable face masks: (left) microfibres from a children’s mask; (right) plastic fragments.

Researchers develop COVID-19 detection kit for wastewater

Dr Sarper Sarp et al have developed a unique device that can detect COVID-19 in common wastewater. This new sampling unit will provide real-time identification of the disease, meaning communities could be alerted if there is a suspected outbreak in their area. The innovative kit has a multi-analytic probe design that will house various intelligent sensors and will be capable of continuously collecting and processing samples. The probe will be positioned in raw sewage, before it is treated, to record COVID-19 viral signature levels. Made from recycled plastic, the device housing is 3D printed and designed to be mass produced.

The innovative kit has a multi-analytic probe design that will house various intelligent sensors and will be capable of continuously collecting and processing samples.

Awaiting Welsh translation…

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