Read the latest news about research conducted by investigators in the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences. Our faculty and students are continually advancing technology, creating solutions and expanding knowledge with new and innovative research.
Ancient rain gauge: New evidence links groundwater, climate changes in deep time
Changes in groundwater millions of years ago created alternating layers of vivid yellow and brown in the mineral sphalerite, and those variations align with movements in Earth’s orbit that impacted climate in the deep past, Penn State scientists found.
Chevron grant funds research on mineral behavior in rock faults
A team of Penn State researchers will soon have a better understanding of the deformation properties and poromechanical behavior of rock samples containing anhydrite, thanks to a $450,000 Chevron grant.
Pennsylvania State Seismic Network sees activity underground
When a seismic event occurs in the commonwealth, the Pennsylvania State Seismic Network (PASEIS) is the first to know.
Penn State awarded $3.3M to develop more efficient gas turbines
Researchers in the Penn State Department of Mechanical Engineering have been awarded more than a combined $3.3 million to support advancements in the performance and efficiency of combustion turbines and turbine-based power cycles in fossil fuel power generation.
Persistent drizzle at sub-zero temps in Antarctica
For the first time, persistent drizzle has been recorded at temperatures well below freezing in Antarctica, according to a team of researchers.
Combining satellites, radar provides path for better forecasts
Combing data from cutting-edge geostationary satellites and traditional weather radar created a path toward earlier, more accurate warnings, according to Penn State researchers who studied supercell thuderstorms in the Midwest.
In and out with 10-minute electrical vehicle recharge
Electric vehicle owners may soon be able to pull into a fueling station, plug their car in, go to the restroom, get a cup of coffee and in 10 minutes, drive out with a fully charged battery, according to a team of engineers.
Tiny swimming donuts deliver the goods
Bacteria and other swimming microorganisms evolved to thrive in challenging environments, and researchers struggle to mimic their unique abilities for biomedical technologies, but fabrication challenges created a manufacturing bottleneck.
Biological material boosts solar cell performance
Next-generation solar cells that mimic photosynthesis with biological material may give new meaning to the term "green technology."
Improving mine ventilation focus of $1.25 million grant
Improving ventilation in underground mines with large openings is the focus of a new project funded by the Center for Disease Control’s Office of Mine Safety and Health Research.