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.

See less

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 can Charge Photometry be Used for Battery Screening and Development?

Comparing Computed Radiography and Digital Detector Arrays

How the RSC is Empowering the Future of Chemical Sciences

ATS Series 3110/3210 - Lab Furnaces

Revontium™: Compact XRF Spectrometer

UV Cure Dielectric Sensor: Precision Monitoring for UV Cured Resins with Quick-Connect Fixture

Sponsored Content

Observation of Paraffin Wax Crystallization in Lubricating Oils Using Scanning Electron Microscopy

Enhancing Lithium Iron Phosphate Battery Efficiency

How Isolation Works in a Simple Mass-Spring-Damper System

Fiber Orientation and Distribution Measurement in a Composite Polymer

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 can Charge Photometry be Used for Battery Screening and Development?

Comparing Computed Radiography and Digital Detector Arrays

How the RSC is Empowering the Future of Chemical Sciences

1Overcoming Challenges in Solid-State Sodium Battery Production

2Transforming Carbon Dioxide and Lignin Into Biodegradable Polymers

3A Greener Way of Producing Ammonia

4Advancement of 3D Printing with New Plastic Coating

5New Recipes for Improved Battery Materials

6Making Stronger and Safer Lithium Batteries

Sponsored Content

Editorial Highlights