‘Talking concrete’ is one of more than five thousand inventions patented by American universities

The universities They are not only centers for learning and teaching, but also spaces for research, creation and innovation. In the United States, teachers with extensive professional careers often work with young students to push technology beyond what we are used to.

This is how several inventions came into existence, some of which have revolutionized the world and others are on their way to doing so.

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These are some of the university inventions registered in the main list of the National Academy of Inventors in the last year.

Systems to improve the surface retention of fluids in plants

This creation, made by researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, allows liquid to be retained on hydrophobic (water-repellent) surfaces of plants. Its function is to allow plants to absorb substances such as pesticides and prevent them from contaminating the soil, air and water.

ClearCam

Although this invention was developed by the ClearScope company, it was a University of Texas system that made it possible. This is a small device that acts as a disposable swab for laparoscopic surgery. This way, surgeons have a better view of the operating table and do not have to postpone cleaning the device from time to time.

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Sensors for concrete

Construction could take a new direction by creating sensors placed in the concrete, allowing engineers to receive real-time data on the condition of the concrete. This creation was made by Purdue University, in Indiana. The information would allow us to know when a repair is needed, so the ‘talking concrete’ will improve traffic circulation and reduce CO2 emissions. A built-in sensor allows the concrete to ‘communicate’ with engineers about its strength.

Method to detect blood doping

Blood doping is a banned practice for athletes, but some still break that rule. So researchers at Duke University developed a method to extract RNA samples from a person’s red blood cells, at intervals of eight different time points, to detect changes in the RNA associated with blood storage.

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Foldable quadrotor

A type of drone, specifically designed to take aerial photographs and conduct surveillance, was the work of researchers at Arizona State University. It is characterized by four rotors similar to those of a helicopter and gives it the ability to stay in place. (JO)