Ben Pilkington

Feature Writer

B.A. (Hons) English Language and Literature, M.St. English Language and Literature

Ben Pilkington is a freelance writer who is interested in society and technology. He enjoys learning how the latest scientific developments can affect us and imagining what will be possible in the future.

Since completing graduate studies at Oxford University in 2016, Ben has reported on developments in computer software, the UK technology industry, digital rights and privacy, industrial automation, IoT, AI, additive manufacturing, sustainability, and clean technology.

Ben is happiest on a bicycle, loves sleeping in a tent or under the stars, and can’t function properly without coffee.

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Articles from Ben

What are Sand Batteries and Can They Solve the Sustainable Energy Crisis?

An energy partnership in Finland recently installed the first fully operational “sand battery” in the world. The innovative technology can store green power for months on end, and its developers say it may solve the problem renewable energy has with power sources that are only available seasonally.

14 Jul 2022

Can Machine Learning Reduce AFM Uncertainty?

Two studies published in 2022 demonstrate machine learning techniques employed to reduce uncertainty in atomic force microscopy (AFM). Making AFM more accurate with artificial intelligence (AI) could make the technology more accessible around the world.

13 Jul 2022

Notable Thermal and Mechanical Properties of New Hybrid Nanostructures

Carbon-based nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes (CNTs), fullerenes, and graphene receive a great deal of attention today due to their unique physical properties. A new study explores the potential of hybrid nanostructures and introduces a new porous graphene CNT hybrid structure with remarkable

7 Jul 2022

How is Neutron Activation Analysis Used in Geological Studies?

Neutron activation analysis, or NAA, is a promising technique that has recently found employment in the field of medicine. It is also important for geological sciences. The method has been used to study geological formations around the world, thermal springs, precious stones, and archaeological obje

28 Jun 2022

Using Rheology to Characterize Cosmetics

Rheology instruments and techniques are used extensively in the cosmetics industry, supporting research and development for new products as well as quality control and assurance.

17 Jun 2022

How Does Cryogenic Treatment Impact Titanium Alloys?

Cryogenic metal treatment is used to create or enhance properties in metals and alloys. In 2021, a new technique was developed for the cryogenic treatment of titanium alloys, and new research is quantifying its effects on the metal.

24 May 2022

How Do EV Batteries Operate in Cold Climates?

Responding to the challenge of EV battery efficiency in cold climates, a research team in Sweden recently demonstrated how batteries for electric vehicles can work in cold climates with an innovative thermal encapsulation platform.

19 May 2022

How is the Digital Transition Benefiting the Planet?

From the middle of the twentieth century onwards, the world economy has been undergoing what academics refer to as the “digital transition.” This is the shift of one industry after another toward computer-based ways of working, which is now all but ubiquitous.

6 May 2022

The Use of NDT in Archaeological Analysis

Inevitably, nondestructive testing (NDT) methods and survey techniques have proliferated in the fields of archaeological research, monument preservation and restoration, and antiquary.

26 Apr 2022

A Current View of Scanning Electron Microscopy in Forensics

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has been an important tool for forensic science since the 1970s, and it continues to find forensic applications today.

25 Apr 2022

Editorial Highlights

The Current State of the Global Semiconductor Market

The global semiconductor market has entered an exciting period. Demand for chip technology is both driving the industry as well as hindering it, with current chip shortages predicted to last for some time. Current trends will likely shape the future of the industry, which is set to continue to show

How are Graphene Batteries Made?

The primary distinction between graphene-based batteries and solid-state batteries lies in the composition of either electrode. Although the cathode is commonly changed, carbon allotropes can also be employed in fabricating anodes.

What Role Will The IoT Play In The Electric Vehicle Industry?

In recent years, the IoT is rapidly being introduced into almost all sectors, but it has particular importance in the EV industry.

Ben Pilkington

Articles from Ben

What are Sand Batteries and Can They Solve the Sustainable Energy Crisis?

Can Machine Learning Reduce AFM Uncertainty?

Notable Thermal and Mechanical Properties of New Hybrid Nanostructures

How is Neutron Activation Analysis Used in Geological Studies?

Using Rheology to Characterize Cosmetics

How Does Cryogenic Treatment Impact Titanium Alloys?

How Do EV Batteries Operate in Cold Climates?

How is the Digital Transition Benefiting the Planet?

The Use of NDT in Archaeological Analysis

A Current View of Scanning Electron Microscopy in Forensics

How to Use AFM to Study 2D Materials and Superlattices

How are Fine Ceramics Supporting the Next Generation of Renewable Energy?

Beyond Lithium: How Group14 Is Redefining the Future of Battery Technology

Advanced Masterbatch and Compounding for Polymers and Plastics

AirBreather Platform for Continuous Gas Analysis

SU7000 & SU8700 Schottky Field Emission SEMs: Ultra High-Resolution & Analytical Imaging

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The Ultimate Guide to PPE for Rescue and Recovery Missions

Moisture, Volatiles and Ash Determination in Coal & Coke

Powering the Future: The Solid-State Battery Revolution

What is the Gold Foil Covering Spacecraft and Satellites?

Editorial Highlights

The Current State of the Global Semiconductor Market

How are Graphene Batteries Made?

What Role Will The IoT Play In The Electric Vehicle Industry?

Ben Pilkington

Articles from Ben

How to Use AFM to Study 2D Materials and Superlattices

How are Fine Ceramics Supporting the Next Generation of Renewable Energy?

Beyond Lithium: How Group14 Is Redefining the Future of Battery Technology

1Perovskite and Copper System Creates C2 Chemicals from CO2

2Aluminum-Scandium Alloys: A Game Changer for Hydrogen Energy

3Pioneering Large-Scale Aluminum 3D Printing

43D-Printed Organic Tissue Models Mimic Living Organs

5DS Smith Partner With TPV Automotive to Create a Sustainable Fiber-Based Packaging for the Protection of Car Wheel Carriers

6Upcycling LDPE: Transforming Plastic Waste into High-Value Graphite

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Editorial Highlights