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Atomic clock comparison via data highways

Optical atomic clocks measure time with unprecedented accuracy. However, it is the ability to compare clocks with one another that makes them applicable for high-precision tests in fundamental theory, from cosmology all the way to quantum physics. A clock comparison, i.e. a comparison of their optical frequencies, has proved to be challenging so far as the few existing optical clocks around the world are not readily portable due to their complex nature.

A team of researchers from the Physikalisch-TechnischeBundesanstalt (PTB) in Braunschweig and from the Laser Spectroscopy Division at the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics (MPQ) in Garching have now demonstrated an optical frequency transfer with high stability through a standard telecommunication optical fibre network. The optical fibre connecting the two institutes was installed below ground and had a total length of 920 kilometres. This demonstration enables the ability to compare optical clocks located far apart from each other and to transmit their stability to distant laboratories where the signals can be used for high precision experiments. At first, fundamental research will benefit from this, e.g. in the precise determination of natural constants, tests of the validity of Einstein’s theory of General Relativity or for predictions in quantum electrodynamics. Visit: www.ptb.de

A cure for concrete cancer

‘Self-healing’ concrete is being developed by researchers at Northumbria University, UK, which could see cracks in concrete buildings become a thing of the past.

Dr Alan Richardson, a senior lecturer in Construction in the School ofthe Built and Natural Environment, is using a ground-borne bacteria – bacilli megaterium – to create calcite, a crystalline form of natural calcium carbonate. This can then be used to block the concrete’s pores, keeping out water and other damaging substances to prolong the life of the concrete.

The bacteria is grown on a nutrient broth of yeast, minerals and urea and is then added to the concrete. With its food source in the concrete, the bacteria breeds and spreads, acting as a filler to seal the cracks and prevent further deterioration. Visit: www.northumbria.ac.uk

Novel UK zero emission technology

AT EVS26 (Electric Vehicle Symposium) in Los Angeles in May 2012 the Dearman Engine Company presented its novel engine technology.

The technology is a zero emission engine that runs on liquid air; a safe, non-combustive/non-flammable, easy to manage and easy to store zero emission energy vector which can be readily produced from wind, solar or traditional generation. The engine exhaust is cold air.

The Dearman Engine took a big step towards commercial reality earlier this year when Ricardo concluded an independent technology review and feasibility evaluation. The Ricardo engineering team is confident that, given its projected performance, there are numerous practical applications for the use of Dearman Engine in the future marketplace. Visit: www.dearmanengine.com