Tougher than steel: Japan looks to wood pulp to make lighter auto parts

The global push among carmakers to make ever lighter vehicles is leading some auto suppliers in Japan to turn to what seems like an unlikely substitute for steel – wood. Japanese researchers and auto component makers say a material made from wood pulp weighs just one fifth of steel and can be five times stronger. […]

Tougher than steel: Japan looks to wood pulp to make lighter auto parts Read More »

Japan has engineered a popsicle that “doesn’t melt”

In Japan’s humid summers, some popsicles are staying cool even in the heat. An accidental discovery at Kanazawa-based Biotherapy Development Research Center helped create popsicles that reportedly don’t melt, and they’re available for sale in parts of Japan. Kanazawa Ice—also known as “not melting popsicles”—first hit stores in the northwestern city Kanazawa in April, reported Japanese daily

Japan has engineered a popsicle that “doesn’t melt” Read More »

Square watermelon shipments begin in western Japan city

Square-shaped watermelon shipments began Wednesday in a western Japan city where the product has become widely known for its rarity and is attracting interest even from overseas. The watermelons shipped from Zentsuji on Japan’s Shikoku main island are not edible and purchased generally as ornaments at such places as department stores and fruit shops. Their

Square watermelon shipments begin in western Japan city Read More »