2026
July 2026
A new UCLA-led study reveals how graphene oxide, a carbon-based nanomaterial, can be incorporated into cementitious mixtures to produce higher-performance concrete. The researchers found that effectiveness depends more on how evenly graphene oxide is distributed rather than how much is added. The findings point to practical pathways for producing durable concrete while using less cement, potentially reducing carbon dioxide emissions associated with cement manufacturing.
2025
December 2025
Visitors to Santa Monica Beach may notice the ocean waves turning pink September 15, 22–24 and 30 near the breakwater and pier because of a temporary, non-toxic dye used to study water quality. Researchers from the UCLA Samueli School of Engineering will release the dye in collaboration with The Bay Foundation. This will be the first time such an experiment is conducted in Santa Monica. The fluorescent rhodamine water tracer dye, which has been used by researchers for many years to understand water movement, will disperse naturally and pose no risk to people, animals or vegetation.