31/03/2025
On March 28, 2025, a powerful earthquake struck Myanmar, causing extensive damage across the country and leaving over 140 people dead. The full extent of destruction was initially unclear, particularly in Myanmar, where a civil war has further complicated rescue and recovery efforts. Neighboring Thailand also felt the impact, with at least six fatalities in Bangkok following the collapse of a high-rise under construction. While this tragedy unfolded, it raises a crucial question: how do some countries successfully build earthquake-resistant structures? One of the best examples is Taiwan.
28/03/2025
Throughout the history of hydraulic construction, the Chinese have relied on folk wisdom to protect bridge foundations and piers from water erosion and the impact of currents. One of the most unique and effective methods is the use of oysters—marine organisms with the ability to adhere firmly to hard surfaces, forming a natural protective layer for structures. Based on real-world observations, this method has gradually been researched and applied in modern construction, becoming a sustainable building solution.
17/03/2025
Artificial islands are human-made structures built in water bodies, typically in oceans, seas, lakes, or rivers. They are created for various purposes, such as urban expansion, tourism, infrastructure development, military bases, and environmental projects.
05/03/2025
Among the many cultural heritages left by the Nguyen Dynasty (1802 – 1945), Pháp lam Huế (Hue enamelware) stands out as a particularly unique form of tangible heritage. Pháp lam (also known as pháp lang – falang, 琺瑯) is an enamelware product made of a copper base coated with enamel, originating from Central Asia. The craft flourished through five Nguyen emperors, leaving behind exquisite artistic values.
19/02/2025
In an era where sustainability and circular economy principles are transforming industries, the textile sector is at a critical juncture. The European Commission’s Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) aims to enhance textile product durability, repairability, and recyclability. Understanding textile durability standards is crucial for manufacturers, retailers, and consumers who prioritize sustainable fashion and long-lasting materials. This guide explores essential textile durability standards, testing methodologies, and the factors influencing fabric performance, ensuring compliance with regulations and industry best practices.
23/01/2025
Ceramics, a diverse class of inorganic, non-metallic materials, are celebrated for their unique combination of properties that set them apart from metals and polymers. With a history rooted in ancient craftsmanship and an evolving role in advanced engineering, ceramics are a cornerstone of both tradition and modern innovation. This guide explores the technical aspects of ceramics, their types, and applications, making it a must-read for industry professionals, researchers, and enthusiasts alike.
13/01/2025
When we think of "performance," cars, computers, or cameras might come to mind. But did you know that glass—a seemingly inanimate material—can also have performance metrics? Understanding glass performance involves exploring how glass meets specific functional requirements in buildings and vehicles.
03/01/2025
In the ever-evolving world of design, few materials capture the delicate balance between tradition and modernity like mother-of-pearl lacquerware. This centuries-old craft has been revitalized, finding its place in contemporary product design and proving that traditional techniques can thrive in the modern age. Let’s explore the rich history, current applications, and lasting value of mother-of-pearl lacquerware in today’s design landscape.
26/12/2024
Discover the world of upholstery textiles—an essential element in furniture design that combines functionality, style, and comfort. From the luxurious feel of velvet to the timeless charm of leather, understanding upholstery materials can help you choose the perfect fabric for your home. Below, we explore popular textile types, their characteristics, and best uses, along with key upholstery techniques and trends.
25/12/2024
Lacquerware, a testament to human artistry and resilience, carries a rich legacy that resonates through centuries. Its vibrant hues and intricate craftsmanship stand as a vivid representation of the cultures that shaped it. What secrets lie beneath its gleaming surface? This article delves into the twists, turns, and triumphs of lacquer culture, uncovering its enduring allure.
25/12/2024
A good night’s sleep is vital for overall health and well-being, and the right mattress can make all the difference. Choosing the proper mattress firmness is a critical step in ensuring comfort and spinal support, ultimately improving sleep quality. This comprehensive guide delves into the mattress firmness scale, its importance, and how to select the ideal mattress for your needs.
25/12/2024
When selecting foam products, making informed decisions hinges on understanding how different densities compare. Foam density is a key factor that reflects the weight of a 12” x 12” x 12” sample, helping consumers gauge quality, durability, and performance. However, without a clear context of how specific density values relate to others, interpreting these numbers can be a challenge.
23/12/2024
Ceramic insulators are a cornerstone of electrical safety and efficiency, widely used in modern electronic and power systems. Derived from porous clay in hues of red, brown, or white, ceramic insulators boast exceptional dielectric properties, resistance to electrical currents, and durability in adverse conditions. Here's a detailed look at their significance, types, applications, and advantages.
19/12/2024
A screen partition, known as "Ping Feng" (屏风) in Chinese, is a traditional piece of furniture that has played an essential role in Asian architecture and interior design for centuries. Its functions extend beyond practicality, offering aesthetic, cultural, and symbolic value.
16/12/2024
Glass curtain wall systems are vertical exterior facades designed to shield buildings from environmental elements like wind and rain. These non-structural cladding systems often enhance the building's aesthetics while providing functional benefits such as insulation and energy efficiency. The exterior can be entirely glass or combined with materials like stone, aluminum, or photovoltaic panels for additional features.
13/12/2024
Color temperature, measured in kelvin (K), is a critical concept in lighting, photography, and other visual fields. It defines the hue of light emitted by a source and its perceived warmth or coolness. A basic understanding of this phenomenon helps us optimize lighting conditions for various applications, ensuring aesthetic and functional requirements are met.
11/12/2024
The phrase “门当户对” (mén dāng hù duì), often translated as "a well-matched marriage," is widely recognized in Chinese culture. It signifies compatibility in family background and social conditions. But did you know this concept has roots in traditional Chinese architecture? Let’s delve into its origin, meanings, and the fascinating architectural elements that inspired it.
10/12/2024
Ming tiles (明瓦, míng wǎ) are a captivating example of ancient craftsmanship and ingenuity in East Asian architecture. These unique translucent sheets, often made from clam shells or sheep horn, were a precursor to modern glass, offering light and elegance to the homes of the wealthy before glass became widely available. Let’s explore the rich history, craftsmanship, and cultural significance of Ming tiles.