From simulation to reality: the new frontier of quadruped locomotion
This work presents a Constrained Reinforcement Learning approach for quadruped locomotion. A custom PPO variant with adaptive discounting enables the Unitree Aliengo robot to learn safe, stable, and energy-efficient gaits through a robust sim-to-real pipeline.
From “smart materials” curiosity to industry: a path through research, innovation, and teamwork
From an early interest in smart materials to an industrial career, Matteo Federici shares his path through materials engineering studies, a research-focused master’s thesis, a European PhD project, and his current role as a test and analysis engineer in industry.
New ingredients for friction materials: greater sustainability, same performance
New friction materials for braking systems combine benzoxazine resins and rice husk to enhance environmental sustainability. Benzoxazine binders deliver braking performance comparable to phenolic resins, with improved wear resistance and reduced particulate emissions.
Rendezvous in Space: impulsive control guiding satellites toward perfect encounters
The article addresses the space rendezvous problem, focusing on the controlled approach between satellites in elliptical orbits, and introduces novel impulsive control strategies. By leveraging advanced tools such as Floquet–Lyapunov theory and hybrid dynamical systems, the research enables precise, fuel-efficient, and safe maneuvers for future autonomous satellite missions.
Fulbright at MIT: Giulia Fredi’s experience
Giulia Fredi’s Fulbright experience at MIT: eight months of research on carbon nanotube–based nanocomposites and phase-change materials, combining scientific innovation, international collaboration, and personal growth.
When passion meets the territory: the story of Francesco Riz
From academic research to real-world engineering in the Dolomites: Francesco Riz’s journey shows how curiosity, technical skills and a strong bond with one’s territory can shape a meaningful career.
When a fracture is not the end: self-healing composites
This research focuses on self-healing composite materials able to recover a large portion of their mechanical properties after damage. By modifying PA6 and integrating short and long carbon fibres, significant fatigue-life improvements were achieved, with recovery sometimes exceeding 100%. Thermoset laminates also benefit from thin polymer layers made via additive manufacturing. The work enables applications in automotive and aerospace sectors.
Symbolic and numerical computation together to simulate complex dynamic systems
When we think of a computer, we picture it dealing with numbers: additions, multiplications, data turning into results. This is numerical computation, the type we use every day with calculators, spreadsheets, and simulation software.
From the DII to Aquafil: a journey built on passion, representation, and innovative materials
From student representative to Product Manager at Aquafil, Nicole Soligo shares a journey driven by passion, innovation, and sustainability. Through international research, circular materials, and key soft skills, she offers insights for students and the future of the industry.
Sun protection and nanoparticles: the hidden side of TiO₂
Titanium dioxide (TiO₂), widely used in cosmetics and industrial products, is often silanized to improve stability and limit the formation of reactive oxygen species. However, new research from the University of Trento and Milano-Bicocca reveals that this treatment actually promotes the generation of singlet oxygen, a highly reactive species. This finding highlights promising applications in sustainable organic synthesis, such as the production of limonene epoxide.
