#Next-Gen Reactors

[legarski]

Hybrid Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): Pioneering the Future of Energy and Connectivity

SolveForce is proud to announce the release of a groundbreaking new book, “Hybrid Small Modular Reactors (SMRs): From Design to Future Technologies,” co-authored by Ronald Joseph Legarski, Jr., President & CEO of SolveForce and Co-Founder of Adaptive Energy Systems. This publication stands at the convergence of next-generation nuclear energy, telecommunications infrastructure, and digital…

[batboyblog]

Things Biden and the Democrats did, this week #20

May 24-31 2024

The EPA awards $900 million to school districts across the country to replace diesel fueled school buses with cleaner alternatives. The money will go to 530 school districts across nearly every state, DC, tribal community, and US territory. The funds will help replace 3,400 buses with cleaner alternatives, 92% of the new buses will be 100% green electric. This adds to the $3 billion the Biden administration has already spent to replace 8,500 school buses across 1,000 school districts in the last 2 years.

For the first time the federal government released guidelines for Voluntary Carbon Markets. Voluntary Carbon Markets are a system by which companies off set their carbon emissions by funding project to fight climate change like investing in wind or solar power. Critics have changed that companies are using them just for PR and their funding often goes to projects that would happen any ways thus not offsetting emissions. The new guidelines seek to insure integrity in the Carbon Markets and make sure they make a meaningful impact. It also pushes companies to address emissions first and use offsets only as a last resort.

The IRS announced it'll take its direct file program nationwide in 2025. In 2024 140,000 tax payers in 12 states used the direct file pilot program and the IRS now plans to bring it to all Americans next tax season. Right now the program is only for simple W-2 returns with no side income but the IRS has plans to expand it to more complex filings in the future. This is one of the many projects at the IRS being funded through President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act.

The White House announced steps to boost nuclear energy in America. Nuclear power in the single largest green energy source in the country accounting for 19% of America's total energy. Boosting Nuclear energy is a key part of the Biden administration's strategy to reach a carbon free electricity sector by 2035. The administration has invested in bring the Palisades nuclear plant in Michigan back on-line, and extending the life of Diablo Canyon in California. In addition the Military will be deploying new small modular nuclear reactors and microreactors to power its installations. The Administration is setting up a task force to help combat the delays and cost overruns that have often derailed new nuclear projects and the Administration is supporting two Gen III+ SMR demonstration projects to highlight the safety and efficiency of the next generation of nuclear power.

The Department of Agriculture announced $824 million in new funding to protect livestock health and combat H5N1. The funding will go toward early detection, vaccine research, and supporting farmers impacted. The USDA is also launching a nation wide Dairy Herd Status Pilot Program, hopefully this program will give us a live look at the health of America's dairy herd and help with early detection. The Biden Administration has reacted quickly and proactively to the early cases of H5N1 to make sure it doesn't spread to the human population and become another pandemic situation.

The White House announced a partnership with 21 states to help supercharge America's aging energy grid. Years of little to no investment in America's Infrastructure has left our energy grid lagging behind the 21st century tech. This partnership aims to squeeze all the energy we can out of our current system while we rush to update and modernize. Last month the administration announced a plan to lay 100,000 miles of new transmission lines over the next five years. The 21 states all with Democratic governors are Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Washington, and Wisconsin.

The Department of Transportation announced $343 million to update 8 of America's oldest and busiest transportation stations for disability accessibility. These include the MBTA's the Green Line's light-rail B and C branches in Boston,  Cleveland's Blue Line, New Orleans'  St. Charles Streetcar route, and projects in San Francisco and New York City and other locations

The Department of interior announced two projects for water in Western states. $179 million for drought resilience projects in California and Utah and $242 million for expanding water access in California, Colorado and Washington. The projects should help support drinking water for 6.4 million people every year.

HUD announced $150 million for affordable housing for tribal communities. This adds to the over $1 billion dollars for tribal housing announced earlier in the month. Neil Whitegull of the Ho-Chunk Nation said at the announcement "I know a lot of times as Native Americans we've been here and we've seen people that have said, ‘Oh yeah, we'd like to help Indians.’ And they take a picture and they go away. We never see it, But there's been a commitment here, with the increase in funding, grants, and this administration that is bringing their folks out. And there's a real commitment, I think, to Native American tribes that we've never seen before."

Secretary of State Antony Blinken pledged $135 million to help Moldavia. Since the outbreak of Russia's war against neighboring Ukraine the US has given $774 million in aid to tiny Moldavia. Moldavia has long been dependent on Russian energy but thanks to US investment in the countries energy security Moldavia is breaking away from Russia and moving forward with EU membership.

The US and Guatemala launched the "Youth With Purpose” initiative. The initiative will be run through the Central America Service Corps, launched in 2022 by Vice President Harris the CASC is part of the Biden Administration's efforts to improve life in Central America. The Youth With Purpose program will train 25,000 young Guatemalans and connect with with service projects throughout the country.

Bonus: Today, May 31st 2024, is the last day of the Affordable Connectivity Program. The program helped 23 million Americans connect to the internet while saving them $30 to $75 dollars every month. Despite repeated calls from President Biden Republicans in Congress have refused to act to renew the program. The White House has worked with private companies to get them to agree to extend the savings to the end of 2024. The Biden Administration has invested $90 Billion high-speed internet investments. Such as $42.45 billion for Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment, $1 billion for the The Middle Mile program laying 12,000 miles of regional fiber networks, and distributed nearly 30,000 connected devices to students and communities, including more than 3,600 through the Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program

[dandelionsresilience]

Dandelion News - February 8-14

(I’m finally starting to get better from having had pneumonia for 2+ weeks, hopefully next week’s news should be on time)

Like these weekly compilations? Tip me at $kaybarr1735 or check out my Dandelion Doodles!

1. Solar-powered device captures carbon dioxide from air to make sustainable fuel

“[The] solar-powered reactor could be used to make fuel to power cars and planes[.… It] does not require fossil-fuel-based power, or the transport and storage of carbon dioxide, but instead converts atmospheric CO2 into something useful using sunlight.”

2. How artificial light can boost coral reef recovery

“UZELA is [an autonomous submersible] designed to attract zooplankton […] by emitting specific wavelengths of light. [… In a ”six-month testing period,” it] significantly increased local zooplankton density and boosted the feeding rates of both healthy and bleached coral.”

3. Next-gen solar cells now fully recyclable with water-based method

“The recycled solar cell has the same efficiency as the original one. The solar cell is made of perovskite and the main solvent is water. […] They are not only relatively inexpensive and easy to manufacture but also lightweight, flexible and transparent.”

4. Green walls cool cities and create urban habitats

“The researchers measured a cooling effect of up to 0.6–0.7 degrees Celsius [… which] could help combat the urban heat island phenomenon. […] The researchers [also] found that plant-covered facades hosted over 100 animal species, including insects, spiders, and birds.”

5. Major cause of honeybee mortality can be easily reduced

“If treatment occurs too soon, it may not fully eliminate the mites, allowing them to rebound before the season ends. […] Similar to antibiotic-resistant bacteria, mites that survive mistimed or improperly applied treatments become more resistant to future applications.”

6. Uganda community group restores shea groves and livelihoods

“As part of a larger effort to restore Uganda’s shea parklands, the cooperative has successfully rehabilitated more than 500 hectares (1,240 acres) of degraded land, integrating shea trees (Vitellaria paradoxa) and other native species with maize and sunflower crops.”

7. Senate Renews Commitment to the Great Lakes

“The [Act] represents the most significant federal investment in the health of the Great Lakes, addressing critical challenges such as pollution, invasive species, and habitat restoration. The Great Lakes […] hold 20 percent of the world’s surface freshwater[….]”

8. Earth Gets Its Largest Protected Tropical Forest Reserve

“The Kivu-Kinshasa Green Corridor will […] protect 108,000 square kilometres of primary forest and support 60 million people who depend on the forest for food, energy and jobs. […] Through this approach, the DRC is empowering local communities to protect the forest while fostering economic growth.”

9. Australia’s Rarest Bird of Prey Spotted in Central Australia After 30 Years

“Dr. Henderson’s finding is an encouraging sign of the health of the sanctuary’s ecosystems as well as the bird’s continued migration into new areas. This bird’s presence in the sanctuary is particularly significant as it is the first confirmed sighting in the region since the mid-1990s.”

10. Australian company wins contract to design “hydrogen ready” high speed ferry

“The ferry, the Horizon X, will have capacity for 1,650 passengers and 450 cars, and will be able to travel at a speed of up to 35 knots. […] The ship will also have a specially-designed propulsion system arrangement that repurposes exhaust from the engine to help propel the vessel, in theory reducing its emissions.”

February 1-7 news here | (all credit for images and written material can be found at the source linked; I don’t claim credit for anything but curating.)

[blessed-curse]

The Tech Giant Of The World.

Serenity Industries: The Titan of Technological Supremacy

Founder:Erwin Bekker (a.k.a. Accel) Founded: 2070 Headquarters:Neo-Berlin, European Federation Current CEO:Liam Bekker (Post-Erwin Bekker’s Death) Specialization: Advanced AI, Robotics, Military Tech, Cybernetics, Energy, Space Exploration Market Valuation (2126):$23.9 Trillion (Largest tech conglomerate on Earth)

Origins: A Visionary’s Empire

Before becoming a legendary hero, Erwin Bekker was a prodigy. A genius in mechanical engineering, AI, and quantum computing, he founded Serenity Industries at just 21 years old in 2070, revolutionizing several key industries. Initially, the company specialized in next-gen cybernetics, creating biomechanical augmentations for disabled individuals. However, it quickly expanded into military technology, robotics, and AI-driven defense systems, securing multi-trillion-dollar contracts with the European Federation, the U.S., and Japan. By 2095, Bekker Industries had outpaced all competitors, effectively monopolizing advanced weaponry, AI warfare, and energy production.

Key Innovations & Divisions

• A.R.C. (Adaptive Robotics & Cybernetics)

• Military-grade androids & mechanized infantry

• SPARTAN-Grade Power Suits (Used by elite operatives worldwide)

• AI-powered prosthetics & augmentations

• VOLTERRA (Energy & Power Division)

• Zero-Point Energy Reactors (Replaced fossil fuels globally by 2102)

• Quantum Batteries (Used in both civilian and military sectors)

• Artificial Fusion Plants

• NEURO-NEXUS (Artificial Intelligence & Automation)

• AetherLink (The worlds fastest, and most reliable internet.)

• High-level AI for warfare, security, and research

• The Overseer Program (Global AI network managing planetary security)

• Virtual Cognitive Assistants (Advanced neural interfacing)

• TITAN ARMS (Weapons & Defense Division)

• Kinetic Barrier Systems (Defensive energy shields for combat units)

• Plasma & Gauss Weaponry (Used by elite forces and private contractors)

• Experimental Anti-Superhuman Weaponry (Predecessor tech to Project-OMEGA)

• ASTRA (Space Exploration & Terraforming)

• Lunar & Martian Colonization Projects

• Deep-Space Mining Operations

• FTL (Faster-Than-Light) Experimental Propulsion

The Hidden Agenda: Anti-Superhuman Measures

While Bekker Industries publicly focused on human advancement, Erwin Bekker always feared the growing power of superhumans.

• Secretly funded research into superhuman suppression technology. • Helped create early SPARTAN prototypes to combat rogue Empowered. • Designed containment systems capable of restraining even SSS+ individuals. • Developed “Override” AI Kill-Switches that could shut down rogue AI or advanced cybernetics.

Legacy & Power Struggle:

With Erwin Bekker’s death (killed by Gluttony in 2121), Serenity Industries remains in chaos. His successor being his son, but over the years corporate leaders and world governments continue to fight for control over the company’s classified projects. Despite its unknown future, Serenity Industries remains the most powerful technological empire on Earth, holding the keys to humanity’s next evolution… or its extinction.

[did-sm1-say-catfish]

nuclear energy has insane lore. yeah so basically scientists came up with really cool sustainable energy that could save so so so many lives and get pollution way down but this one dude caught wind of it and started to use nuclear energy as his own propaganda to purposely lower the population of earth because he thought we were gonna fuck ourselves into starvation and now everyone is afraid of nuclear energy because of accidents years and years ago and that one guy's propaganda even tho the next gen of reactors cannot physically melt down the and living within fifty miles of a nuclear power plant for a year gives off less radiation than eating a singular banana.

[a-small-batch-of-dragons]

The Discovery

…hi

so it's been…almost a full year? since I added a part to this story? does anyone even read these anymore?

Read on Ao3 Part 1 Part 2

Warnings: implied/referenced child abuse

Pairings: gen

Word Count: 2830

For Black, having two unexpected children on this ship is enough of a headache. Not to mention they're currently smashing their emotionless killer persona to bits without even trying. And that's not even mentioning the fact that they found a deliberately sabotaged vent cover. Really, Black has enough to worry about. And then Cyan mentions seeing something weird in a vent near Oxygen.

"Listen to me for a second, babies," Black says quietly, crouching by the edge of the bed as the hatchlings nibble on ration bars, "I need you two to stay in here while I clean up, okay? Don't go anywhere until I come back."

The human baby nods immediately, shrinking in a little on themselves. The pup burbles, crumbs falling from their tendrils. "Why? Isn't it—isn't it safe now?"

"Of course it's safe, pup. But it's messy in parts of the ship and I don't want you two to get hurt."

The pup wriggles a little closer to the human. Just close enough, Black notices, to make themselves into a patch of sorts over the bandage. They're going to have to change that out too before too long. The pup makes a noise of agreement and Black nods, standing and moving to the door. They glance over their shoulder one more time as the bulkhead slides shut.

Well. No time like the present.

The majority of the bodies left to be disposed of haven't had the chance to properly decay, not since they shoved the last crewmate out of the airlock. It takes barely any effort to haul the bodies down to the bay and into the airlock proper, though not before rifling around in their pockets for any clues as to why there were, first of all, two stowaways on this damn ship and second, blades apparently getting welded to vent covers. They find a small key that probably goes to a personnel box and an ID card that doesn't quite match the one that gets swiped at the Admin terminal, but other than that, nothing. They stash the objects in their belt anyway, watching the last body disappear with grim satisfaction before finding a mop and bucket in one of the Storage closets.

As they move back to the bunks, they pause outside of Weapons. After a moment's deliberation, they head to the upper corner to check the underside of the vent. It comes off with the same horrid screech. Their maw snarls when they see the same wicked blade jutting up from the underside. They run the very edge of a finger over it and wince when it bites into their suit. They pull back and frown.

This one looks identical to the one found in Reactor. As in: there's no evidence of blood.

So had someone seen that there was blood and cleaned it? They must have, there's no way those sorts of wounds on either the pup or the human baby would have left no evidence, which means that there's a high chance that someone knew— someone else knew the two babies were on board and—

Black reattaches the cover with slightly more force than necessary and strides back to the bunks. Their maw snarls and growls until they see the pups exactly where they left them, still curled around each other on the edge of the bed, splitting the last ration bar in the bag. They look up as the door slides open. The pup trills in greeting, sloshing a little, and the human…well, the human doesn't flinch away, so Black'll take that as a win.

"Hey, babies, I'm back now. Are you both okay?"

The human nods, a little too quickly. Black comes to crouch next to them, their maw rumbling at the sight of the two of them. Fuck, they must keep biting their lips because it still looks like they have a little maw too and the pup must be picking up on the same thing because they nudge their cheek with a bit of ration bar.

"You need to eat, baby," Black encourages when the human just looks scared, "it's okay."

They take it as the pup curls up more around their side, gaze darting from Black to the pup and back. When they've finished, Black reaches up to rest their hand on the pup.

"I need to check their bandages," they say quietly, "move out of the way for a moment."

The pup lets out a discontent noise but does as bid, quickly shuffling around to the other side. They keep their eyes on the human, keep their maw at a low rumble, gingerly prodding and smoothing in equal parts to make sure the wound doesn't need to be redressed. The human trembles a little at the first touch, but the pup rumbles and wraps tendrils around their little fingers, and Black finishes as quickly as they can.

"Okay, it looks okay, baby, thank you." The human winds their free hand around Black's fingers and their maw lets out a contented groan. "I have some questions for you two, is that okay? Are you up to talking a little right now?"

The human eyes them warily but nods. A tendril zips from the pup to curl around Black's shoulder. They chuckle and sit on the floor, looking up at their babies. The babies, not their babies. Definitely not their babies.

"What questions?"

Black gives themselves a shake. Right. Focus. "Were there any other vents that looked broken when you two found them?"

They shake their heads. The human's fingers twitch for a second but they say nothing.

"Okay. Did the two of you get hurt anywhere else?"

Another shake. The pup curls more tendrils around the human's legs, almost like a blanket. It makes some tiny part of Black's chest lurch when they realize they must've learned that the pup was better at dealing with the harsh metal of the vents than the human and traveled that way. Fuck, these two should not be out here…

"There was something weird by the place with the tree."

Black snaps themselves back. Shit, they really need to focus. What happened to their mission instincts? Well, two babies happened. "What do you mean, something weird by the place with the tree? In the vents between the cafeteria and Oxygen?"

The human moves. With a tiny finger, they point at their forehead, their chin, then each of their cheeks. Black tilts their head. They do it again, not quite touching their face, but indicating very specific spots.

"What does that mean, baby?"

"That's the weird thing. We didn't get close enough to it so it could do it to us."

"Do what to you?" The pup sloshes in the equivalent of a shrug. "Can you show me?"

They burble something to the human. The human bites their lips again but nods, slowly raising their arms as if they're unsure if Black will pick them up now—which means Black just has to scoop them up because what are they, unreasonable? The pup scurries up their shoulder as the three of them make their way to the vent just on the other side of Oxygen's walls. Black leans down, carefully opening the vent cover—and checking it for blades, thankfully finding none—and lowering themselves into the cramped space.

"Tell me which way to go, pup."

The pup directs them down the vent, still clinging onto their suit. The human's grip tightens too, enough that Black pauses for a moment to adjust their hold, cradle them against their chest, let their maw rumble and check that it's okay, we can go back if you're too scared, just hold onto me, I won't let anything happen to you. They make it around a corner before the pup trills in warning and the human pulls on Black's sleeve, making them stop. They do, crouching there and peering through the darkness to see what's got the babies so worried.

Affixed to the wall is a small black scanner.

A chill runs down Black's spine.

First the blades…now a scanner…if they hadn't been convinced that the crew of this ship knew something was in the vents before, they definitely are now. Unconsciously, their grip on their babies tightens. Were these measures taken to keep them out, or to hunt down these stowaways? And even if they hadn't known for sure something was there, why take these sorts of precautions? Why not search the vents themselves; if they had access to the sort of welding equipment that could attach blades to the underside of vent covers, then surely they had access to those drones that could do all sorts of ship maintenance like, oh, searching the vents?

They don't realize they've moved into the scanner's view until there are four red lights trained on their un-helmeted face.

They react in a split second. They shift just enough to wrap their body around the pup and the human and hurl themselves down the vent, arm over arm, scrambling towards Admin as alarms fill the air. They burst through the cover and practically jam their card into the terminal, deactivating whatever fucking thing got triggered and scrubbing a hand over their face. Shit. That was fucking close.

"Hey, hey, babies," they rumble and rasp as frightened squeaks come from their body, " shh, it's okay, we're all okay, it's over now, we're safe."

They shift back, carefully releasing both babies from their hold, only to wrap them both up again in their arms as the pup latches onto their shoulder, frothing and whimpering. The human squirms closer, closer, trying to push themselves back into Black's chest— just like a nestling, fuck— and they let their maw fall open just enough to nibble their shirt. A noise splits the air and they only realize it's the human when their maw feels their chest jump and oh, fuck, the combined scent of fear rips through the air and Black instantly curves around them.

"Shh, shh, babies, it's okay…it's okay, we're safe, we're okay…" Their maw rumbles soothingly, over and over as the babies shudder and shake. "You're both so brave, it's okay, it's over now."

They reach up and gently take the pup by the scruff again, soothing them enough to pull them free from their shoulder, tuck them against their maw next to the human, not bothering to fight a coo as the two wind together again. The pup wraps themselves around the human, their maw latching onto their shoulder this time.

"Soft bites, pup," Black cautions, "the baby's fragile too."

The human barely seems to register the fact that they've got a pup clinging to them. Which, to be fair, is definitely not the most important thing that happened in the last few minutes but does make Black worry that the poor baby is— the human is a little more out of it than they first realized.

"Baby?" Black carefully runs their free hand through the human's hair, making sure not to tug or yank. "Baby, can you breathe okay? You in any pain?"

The human startles briefly at the touch but soon raises their head to look at Black and oh, this poor thing looks so scared, the fear still rolling off of them as the pup's slowly begins to wane and Black is very much not equipped to do anything more than try and shush them, soothe them, hold them close— fuck, this is not a place for babies of any sort to be. Not in this ship, not in space, not in vents with blades sharp enough to gut them, not running away from scanners that trigger alarms every time they so much as move, not alone with nothing but another baby and a—

Not with someone who has no idea how to properly take care of them.

"What was that," the pup warbles, "why did it do that?

"I don't know, pup, I don't know."

"Will we—will we have to go back?"

"No," Black vows, "the two of you will never go near that thing again. You're gonna stay with me, or in the bunks, or somewhere safe. No more vents for the two of you."

The pup shrinks a little, still wrapped around the human. "But sometimes the vents are the only safe place."

Black suppresses the need to fly the ship back and murder the crewmates again. "Not anymore, baby. It's just us on the ship now, you don't need to hide anymore."

The human's fingers finally twitch. They look down and see their lower lip wobble like they're trying not to cry, and they reach down to brush a thumb across the swollen flesh. "Hey, baby. It's okay, see? We're all okay. You were so brave, baby, you did such a good job. It's all over now, okay? It's all over. I promise. No more vents, no more scanners, no more of any of that."

The human nods. The pup warbles and trills and sloshes up to rub against the human's cheek like an akk-kitten. It's far too precious for words and Black has no words about it. Absolutely none. They stand up, ready to go back to the bunks to let the babies sleep and figure the rest of this out later when they catch sight of the Admin display.

Now, even though they never actually do tasks, they've spied on enough crewmates to know what it looks like. And this? This is not what Admin displays normally look like.

Admin displays don't have a list of every possible task on the side.

Admin displays don't have controls for the doors, Oxygen, and the Reactor on standby.

Admin displays don't have wiring diagrams for the entire ship denoting what needs to be rewired through where.

And Admin displays definitely don't have an extra little thing on the map right where that fucking scanner in the vent was.

Black slowly looks down at the card still lying next to the terminal. In their haste to get the alarms to shut the fuck up, they had swiped the dead crewmate's ID card instead of their own fake one. They adjust their grip on the human and pick it up.

"What's wrong?" the pup burbles.

"I don't know yet, pup. I just found something on the terminal that doesn't make a lot of sense to me."

That seems to pacify them for now, going back to fussing over the human which is admittedly what Black should also be doing right now—to the extent that that's ever something they should be doing—but their gaze is drawn to the icon in the top corner. They glance back at the ID card. It's the same one on the very edge of the picture. It's a different shape than anything they've ever seen before, almost like a chopped-up circle.

The human shifts in their arms and they click off the terminal, stashing the ID back in their pocket as they walk back toward the bunks. They cup their hand around the nape of the human's neck, squeezing gently. The poor thing nearly shudders out of their arms.

"It's okay, baby," they rasp, getting back to the bunks and sitting down amidst the piles of blankets, "it's okay. We're not going back there again, you're safe. We're all safe, yeah? It's gonna be okay. I'm right here, the pup's here, we're not hurt."

The human's grip suddenly tightens, so much so that even the pup trills in question. Only when Black feels the way they're trying to get their head into the rim of their suit do they realize what must be happening.

"Oh, okay, baby, we can cuddle, just gimme a second, okay?" Just like a fucking nestling, just like a fucking nestling. "You gotta let me go just for one second."

They manage to coax the baby into letting go for just a second, because that's all Black needs to quickly shift out of the suit and into something appropriate for soothing a nestling, before they're almost knocked over by the force of a pup and a human baby trying to snuggle them into oblivion. They chuckle and adjust the blankets into a semi-acceptable nest before resigning themselves to not going anywhere for a little while. Which is perfectly fine with them. They have babies to look after.

It also gives them time to think.

No crew on any ship should need to do that much rewiring in flight. No crew should need to take those sorts of safety precautions without doing full dock-side checks before they get underway. And no crew should need to install deadly weapons on their own ship.

Black lets their head loll to the side, staring at the wall. Why would humans need to wear protective suits with full tanks and proper seals on their own ship? Why would it be protocol not to take them off unless they were in the bunks? Speaking of which, why were the bunks the only place it was deemed safe to do a complete suit removal outside of a medical emergency? And why were the bunks not on the same floor as the medbay?

A horribly cold conclusion begins to form in Black's mind as they tighten their grip on their babies.

I'm not the first person to take this ship over. The humans took it from something else first.

[amber-gimlet]

I wrote a mini essay on the balor and I want to get it out of the discord server. some of this might be outdated.

Balor Report The following assumes one is doing a nanowhip build Balor.

Mobility: Pankrati 2, skirmisher 2, and Agility 2 are more than sufficient for mobility purposes, Sunzi is actually unnecessary and Balor can very comfortable achieve its foundational mobility by LL3 at the cost of executioner 3 and Hull 4 which both have to wait till LL4.

Heat Resistance: Lesson of Disbelief! 2 investment in systems or engineering depending on if one is branching out into tech attacking or focusing on raw damage would be wise, but is not a priority.

Presence: Even without swarm body, skirmisher executioner with the whip allows for insane combat oppression.

Takeaway: sunzi can outright be dropped in favor of IPSN investment for the HP, size, or threat core bonus at LL6, the quest is just what you want from IPSN for specifics. Avoiding heat gen is still important. Hull 4 is sufficient HP investment for the most part, so I'd actually suggest investing in Engineering or systems at LL5-6.

Addendum: Balor 3 Black Witch 3 is very good, as most of the IPSN license are wholly unneeded by Balor build. to put it in Morrowind terms, from the perspective of "solving problems", ISPN does not, but also threat 4 whip and hull save acc. further enhances the insanity of the balor so its hard to pass up. Black Witch on the other hand provides the ferrous lash, the PCP, and the black ice module. These immensely help patch of existing weak points of the Balor by providing it further tech resistance, allied support, and control effects. Magnetic shield is good but may not fit due to SP cost, and I'd say that the balor benefits more from having swarm/hive nanites than mag cannon. Also +2 evasion core bonus further assists the Balor's survivability, allowing you to perform some insane feats of frontlining.

Balor Synergy Options

Sunzi: Accelerate and Blink charges are excellent. HA Core Bonus Synergy: Low. IAF or SBD are good options, the former for blink charges, the latter for shoring up Balor's weaknesses. Low rating is due blink charges being an unsustainable luxury that runs counter to the Balor's speciality, and the Balor's poor reactor can be better mitigated by giving it protection from tech, such as from the next entry-

Black Witch: Ferrous Lash, Black Ice, and PCP. Black Ice especially combines with Lesson of Disbelief to turn a normally witch-fearing frame into a witch-hunter. SSC Core Bonus Synergy: Moderate. Evasion allows for more front-lining, others not really useful.

Lancaster: Cable Winch, Restock, Whitewash. CW traps them into melee with you, restock drone is some nice team support, and whitewash can slow enemies for pankrati as well as supporting allies and saving civilians. IPSN Core Bonus Synergy: !ridiculously high! Formorian Frame increases combat presence, since threat 3 extends from all tiles, and taking house guard will allow you to acquire guardian to be an incredibly defender presence. Gyges frame is obviously threat 4 whip but also shoutout to +1 acc Hull for further enhancing survivability. lots of nasty things are hull saves. and Reinforced Frame of course further enhances your natural regen.

[takeariskao3]

I’m obsessed with your next gen potter kids so let’s play 20 questions… please don’t hate me 🫣

1. Who is the more strict parent?

2. Which parent enforces punishments (i.e., grounding or chores)?

3. Which parent is a pushover?

4. Which parent would sneak dessert into their kids room when they're grounded or sent to their room without dessert?

5. Which parent can't sit still when their child is sick and is checking their temperature every 5 seconds?

6. Which parent is most likely to cry when their child cries?

7. Which parent is not able to go to sleep until their child is at home safely?

8. Which parent is the mother hen?

9. Which parent has the hardest time accepting that their child is growing up and doesn't need them around or to solve their problems?

10. Which parent would struggle the most when their child is embarrassed or them?

11. Which parent would lose their shit if someone fought with their child or broke their heart?

12. Which parent would you find in the kitchen at 2 a.m. having a deep conversation about their little life problems?

13. Which parent cried the most when their child went to Hogwarts?

14. Which parent is the most overprotective when talking to strangers?

15. Which kid cried the most when they learned about the war and the struggles their parents went through (let’s say they found out from a friend and confronted their parents)?

16. Which kid struggled the most when Harry went on missions and needed extra cuddles or daddy time when he returned?

17. Which kid struggled the most when Ginny was away for games or reporter duties?

18. Which kid would be most likely to hex the Dursleys for how they treated their father?

19. Which struggles the most when their parent says their “disappointed in them” and gives them a sad look?

20. Which kid struggles the most to accept their parents are getting old?

oh my god IM OBSESSED WITH THEM TOO come off anon and we can be obsessed together

questions under the cut because length!

1. Who is the more strict parent? i don't think either harry or ginny are particularly strict? when the kids are young, i could see ginny being the one who enforces more of the routine (mealtimes, bedtimes, etc) but as they get older harry is the one who is more protective? which could be interpreted as strict, but it's more like he's trying to keep tabs on everyone because he wants them safe.

2. Which parent enforces punishments (i.e., grounding or chores)? both? i bet harry and ginny talk through a lot of their disciplining together and the kids get real nervous when they start conversing in hushed tones.

3. Which parent is a pushover? when they're young.. harry. when they're teenagers.. neither. that's the curse of harry and ginny as your parents. there's nothing you can try that they haven't already done/gotten away with.

4. Which parent would sneak dessert into their kids room when they're grounded or sent to their room without dessert? lily and ruby very rarely get in trouble this way... lily is able to talk her way out of arguments, ruby can't be bothered to talk back in the first place, it's james who pushes all the buttons. ginny will bring him a slice of pie after he's had some time to stew.

5. Which parent can't sit still when their child is sick and is checking their temperature every 5 seconds? when they're babies, harry is a little bit of an over-reactor. ginny is the one constantly talking logic and giving them both reassurances that a fever isn't an incurable disease.

6. Which parent is most likely to cry when their child cries? depends on why the child is crying. if they skinned their knees i don't see harry and ginny getting weepy, they're more the let's get the dittany and get you fixed up type of parents. but when ruby learns a hard lesson about injustice in the world, harry gets a little teary eyed because he's in awe of how much she sees and feels.

7. Which parent is not able to go to sleep until their child is at home safely? harry.

8. Which parent is the mother hen? neither? i'm not sure. i mean i think ginny is very good at anticipating emotional needs but i don't see either of them getting fussy interfering about it.

9. Which parent has the hardest time accepting that their child is growing up and doesn't need them around or to solve their problems? harry. somewhere along the way his kids grew up and he isn't sure how he feels about that. meanwhile, ginny has been counting down the days until her kids can feed/clean themselves so she can sleep in on saturday mornings.

10. Which parent would struggle the most when their child is embarrassed or them? i think ginny would double down as a joke if one of the kids was embarrassed by something she did. i think harry wouldn't feel bad about embarrassing his kids either, unless it was something about him being Harry Potter (TM). like he would feel pretty low if lily didn't want him to go into a shop with her because she wants to spy on the shop boy but also because "seventeen people always stop and talk to us and I just want to buy a book without having to meet everyone in the store."

11. Which parent would lose their shit if someone fought with their child or broke their heart? harry is very wary of boys. he doesn't like it when ruby and lily start dating... however the first thing he taught them after they got their wands was how to disarm someone so if they lost a fight or a duel, he would want to talk through what happened and how they could win next time. ginny however, goes mama lion if anyone tries to start shit with her kids.

12. Which parent would you find in the kitchen at 2 a.m. having a deep conversation about their little life problems? both? but at different times and about different things. i think lily confides in ginny a lot once she's in her teens. i think ruby asks about harry's work and they end up talking for hours. i think james talks about anything and everything until someone stops him, but some of the time harry is just content to sit and listen to his batshit son talk in circles

13. Which parent cried the most when their child went to Hogwarts? harry. full stop. you can read about it here ;)

14. Which parent is the most overprotective when talking to strangers? harry. i think people often come up and stop him public a lot. he's polite but wary a lot of the time, especially when he's with a kid(s)

15. Which kid cried the most when they learned about the war and the struggles their parents went through (let’s say they found out from a friend and confronted their parents)? surprisingly (no actually in thinking about it, it honestly surprised me) james. i think lily and ruby had more accurate views of their parents from the get go, but by the time james came around, he didn't think of his parents as war heroes he just saw his parents. so when he finds out about *everything* its a lot and it sort of shifts his worldview on a lot of things and he... maybe doesn't give his dad such a hard time for the next couple of weeks.

16. Which kid struggled the most when Harry went on missions and needed extra cuddles or daddy time when he returned? i think all of them, at different times. when james is little he would ask "where dada?" whereas once lily was old enough to understand what exactly he was doing, she would give him big BIG hugs upon return.

17. Which kid struggled the most when Ginny was away for games or reporter duties? ruby. though ginny always made a point to take her kids with her on trips as much as she could.

18. Which kid would be most likely to hex the Dursleys for how they treated their father? interesting!!! i haven't ever thought about the next generation learning about/meeting the dursleys. i think early on, lily assigns herself as a protector and that includes harry so i could see her learning about harry's childhood and Not Handling It Well

19. Which struggles the most when their parent says their “disappointed in them” and gives them a sad look? ginny wields quiet fury like a pro and that's terrifying in and of itself. but harry's "i'm not angry just disappointed" is truly devastating. because harry thinks so highly of his children, they are the best people he knows, and when they "fall short" of that by willfully making bad decisions, they don't need much punishment outside of the guilt they feel for disappointing him.

20. Which kid struggles the most to accept their parents are getting old? i actually think it would be the other way around? the three children are like "fucking hell dad threw out his hip again trying to duel the auror trainees" meanwhile ginny is hopping on the newest, fastest racing broom and james comes barrelling out of the back of his house yelling "Mum! Get off that right now! You are sixty-four years old!"

[jcmarchi]

Quantum leaps: Transforming data centers & energy

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/quantum-leaps-transforming-data-centers-energy/

Quantum leaps: Transforming data centers & energy

We are making Quantum Leaps. I am not referring to the 80s/90s TV show, but rather, I am referring to quantum computing and competing for better and faster artificial intelligence. 

Quantum computing is a field that excites me to my core. I’ve always been driven by pursuing what’s next, whether mastering tactics in the Marines or navigating complex policy challenges in government.

Quantum computing feels like the ultimate “what’s next.” Its potential to solve problems in seconds that would take today’s supercomputers millennia is a quantum leap. I talked a bit about Quantum Computing in one of my recent newsletters.

However, potential doesn’t turn into reality without investment of time, money, and strategic resources. My experience has shown me that technological superiority is a strategic advantage, and right now, nations and companies worldwide are racing to claim the quantum crown.

We risk falling behind if we don’t pour resources into research, development, and deployment. This is more than an opportunity; it’s a call to action. We must invest heavily and deliberately to ensure quantum computing becomes a cornerstone of our competitive edge.

Next gen AI architectures: Exploring the next wave of intelligent computing

Some next-generation AI architectures are emerging as promising alternatives such as (HDC), (NSAI), capsule networks, and low-power AI chips.

Bill Gates recently suggested that energy sector jobs are among the few fields that will survive an AI takeover. According to him, the energy sector’s immense complexity and ever-evolving regulatory frameworks mean that human expertise will always be necessary.

AI alone cannot navigate the intricate challenges of mapping regulatory landscapes or developing sustainable solutions to meet our world’s diverse energy needs. 

“Within 10 years, AI will replace many doctors and teachers; humans won’t be needed for most things.” – Bill Gates

Bill Gates’s premonition that only a few fields will survive over the next 10 years insinuates massive shifts happening, and rather quickly. Welcome to the quantum computing era.

As we are trending towards a new era of AI, called quantum computing, it becomes increasingly evident that our approach to both data centers and the broader energy grid needs to change. 

Next to Bill Gates’s statement, AI is continually seeping into every industry and every corner of life. I believe this is causing and will continue to cause a surge in demand for advanced computing power like never before, which will not only drive the need for redesigning smarter, more efficient data center strategies but will also require a fundamental advancement of our energy grid infrastructure. 

To start with, we must focus on data centers and our energy grid; it’s important to illustrate at a high and broad level how we get push-button AI at our fingertips. 

See Figure 1 below

The underlying process that supports modern AI begins with power generation. Energy is produced at large-scale facilities, ranging from nuclear reactors (both current 3rd-generation and the emerging 4th-generation designs), coal-fired plants, wind farms, and solar arrays, which convert various energy sources into electricity. This electricity then travels through an extensive distribution network of power lines and substations before reaching data centers. That is the energy grid infrastructure.

Inside these data centers, thousands of powerful servers process and store vast amounts of data, running complex AI algorithms and machine learning models. These facilities employ advanced cooling systems and high-speed networking infrastructure to ensure optimal performance, allowing rapid global data transmission.

When a user interacts with an AI application, whether a virtual assistant or a personalized recommendation engine, the input is processed at these centers through model inference, and the output is swiftly delivered back via the internet to consumer devices.

Figure 1 

In layman’s terms, our modern AI experience relies on the vital integration of robust energy grids and sophisticated data centers, flawlessly powering the technologies at our fingertips. This interconnected infrastructure is necessary for delivering the immediate, push-button AI capabilities that are so commonplace now that we tend to take them for granted.

Advancing the energy grid: Nuclear or solar, which is better for the emergence of quantum computing?

Solar and nuclear power are set to emerge as the two dominating sources for our future energy mix. Solar energy is a game-changer due to its virtually limitless potential, rapidly declining costs, and the strides we’ve made in efficiency and storage technology.

As our digital demands continue to surge, especially with the rise of advanced computing and quantum technologies, solar’s scalability makes it a feasible choice for powering everything from sprawling data centers to localized grids. At the same time, nuclear energy is indispensable because it provides reliable, around-the-clock baseload power with minimal carbon emissions.

With next-generation advances like small modular reactors addressing traditional safety and waste concerns, nuclear power is well-positioned to deliver the steady energy output necessary to support our ever-growing, high-demand digital infrastructure. 

With nuclear and solar together, these two sources balance flexibility with stability, making them my top picks for the future. 

Based on the photo in Figure 2 below, solar currently contributes less than wind and hydro, but it’s set to catch up and eventually overtake them. Solar’s lower current share is primarily due to its relatively recent adoption and earlier cost barriers, whereas wind and hydro have been established for decades. 

However, I’m excited about the rapid cost declines in solar panel technology, energy efficiency improvements, and storage system advancements that address intermittency.

Unlike hydro, which is limited by geography, or wind, which requires consistent breezes, solar panels can be deployed almost anywhere, with considerations, i.e., my references to Washington State later in this writing. As energy demands grow, especially with emerging technologies like quantum computing, I expect solar to scale quickly to meet nuclear energy as a complete hybrid energy strategy.

Figure 2

Nuclear: As quantum computing matures and its demands for energy reliability, efficiency, and stability increase, the debate over the ideal energy source intensifies.

Nuclear power has very low CO₂ emissions during operation and exceptionally high energy density, offering a compact but potent solution. Its ability to generate massive power from a relatively small footprint makes it an attractive option for powering data centers that support quantum computing.

However, nuclear reactors come with a lot of challenges. The production of radioactive waste, which requires long-term, secure management, and the inherent risks associated with potential accidents, remain top concerns. Additionally, the regulatory landscape for nuclear power is intricate, necessitating continual human oversight and specialized expertise to ensure safe operations.

With that said, let me reference Bill Gates’s perspective below: one area where jobs will continue to reign over AI in the future is in energy experts. 

“2. Energy experts: The guardians of power

The energy sector is too vast and intricate for AI to manage alone. Whether dealing with oil, nuclear power, or renewables, industry experts are required to navigate regulatory landscapes, strategize sustainable solutions, and handle the unpredictable nature of global energy demands.”

Solar: On the other side of the debate, solar power is a renewable and environmentally friendly alternative. With minimal operational emissions and the potential for scalability, solar reactors can leverage the sun’s abundant energy. This scalability is particularly appealing for decentralized energy production and for applications where geographical distribution is advantageous.

Whenever I return to California from Ireland, my flight path often passes 40,000 feet over Arizona, where a colossal solar farm sprawls across the desert. The farm is called the Agua Caliente Solar Project.

Even when I’m cruising from San Diego to Phoenix, its vast expanse is unmistakable, visible at 70 mph on the highway or from high above. The Agua Caliente Solar Project is a 290 megawatt (MWAC) photovoltaic power station, built in Yuma County, Arizona, using 5.2 million cadmium telluride modules made by the U.S. thin-film manufacturer First Solar. It was the largest solar facility in the world when the project was commissioned in April 2014.[1][2]

While the striking installation thrives in the sunny, arid conditions of Arizona, replicating it in regions like Washington State could be more challenging due to:

There is a need for vast, open, and flat land, conditions less common in much of Washington, though some areas offer suitable terrain.

The abundant, consistent sunlight is essential for large-scale solar farms, which is less prevalent in Washington compared to Arizona.

Here is an aerial photo – Figure 3 – of the farm from about a height of 10,000 feet.

Figure 3

Yet, solar power systems face their own set of hurdles. Large-scale solar installations demand very large land areas, which can be a limiting factor in densely populated or resource-constrained regions.

Additionally, the environmental impact of manufacturing solar panels, including resource extraction and waste generated at the end of their lifecycle, cannot be overlooked. Like my example of Washington State, variability in solar energy production due to weather conditions further complicates its reliability as a sole energy source for critical applications like quantum computing.

When evaluating these trade-offs, it’s important to consider the specific energy needs of quantum computing. Quantum computing centers require not only massive, uninterrupted power but also an energy infrastructure that can scale with the rapid growth of data and processing demands.

Nuclear reactors, particularly next-generation designs, could provide the consistent, high-output energy necessary to run these power-hungry centers efficiently. In contrast, while solar power offers a cleaner, more renewable option, its dependency on external factors like sunlight means it might best serve as a supplementary source rather than the primary backbone of energy supply for such high-stakes applications.

Out with the old, in with the new: Leaping from 3rd generation nuclear, to 4th generation

The need for such sophisticated infrastructure becomes even more important as the demand for AI and quantum computing applications continues to grow.

Although current 3rd-generation nuclear reactors can power today’s data centers and support quantum computing, there is a convincing argument to expedite shifting to 4th-generation reactors.

These advanced reactors promise enhanced safety features, improved fuel efficiency, and reduced radioactive waste. The U.S., for example, is actively pursuing these 4th-generation reactors through initiatives like the Department of Energy’s Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program, with demonstration projects expected in the early 2030s and broader deployment possibly by the mid-to-late 2030s.

Meanwhile, countries such as China and Russia are already experimenting with advanced reactor designs like China’s HTR-PM and Russia’s BN-800, though no nation has yet deployed a large fleet of fully commercial 4th-generation reactors.

The integration of AI and quantum computing is driving a transformative rethinking of both energy generation and data center ecosystems. Advanced power generation from the next wave of nuclear reactors to innovative renewable energy sources is going to be standardly needed in meeting the escalating energy demands of these emerging technologies.

As our reliance on AI and quantum computing grows, so does the need for human expertise to navigate the complex regulatory and technical challenges inherent in this evolution. 

Whether nuclear or solar reactors ultimately prove superior in specific cases may depend on regional needs, technological breakthroughs, and the balance between efficiency, safety, and sustainability in the long term.

So, it’s highly unlikely that the grid and the economy would go with one or the other as we emerge into the era of quantum computing, but rest assured, they will both be absolutely necessary.

The 4th-generation nuclear reactors are an increasing necessity for quantum computing because they provide the ultra-stable, high-density energy needed for sensitive quantum systems.

Unlike 3rd-generation reactors, these advanced designs offer enhanced safety features, more consistent power output, and improved fuel efficiency, all while reducing radioactive waste. These improvements are critical for powering the data centers that drive AI and quantum computing, ensuring a resilient, sustainable energy grid for future technological advancements.

Below in Figure 4 is a comparative chart outlining some of the main pros and cons of nuclear power versus solar power. This chart summarizes key points to consider when comparing nuclear and solar power. Each energy source has distinct advantages and challenges that must be weighed in light of factors such as environmental impact, reliability, cost, safety, and waste management.

Figure 4

Rethinking data centers

In my time as a Marine, I learned the value of strategic positioning, never putting all your resources in one vulnerable spot. That lesson resonates with me now as I look at the digital landscape.

My military background taught me to anticipate risks and plan for redundancy, and that’s exactly what decentralized data centers offer. They’re not just infrastructure; they’re a strategic asset, and I believe investing in them is non-negotiable if we want to stay ahead in the digital race.

To realize Bill Gates’ statement, which I originally referred to in this writing, I believe the final shift to his proposed future state reality will be a commoditized approach to data centers; again, similar to my gas station theory, I mention below. 

In my view, 

“We are on the brink of a transformation that I would call the ‘real estate data center market’ (watch video), where data centers become as ubiquitous as gas stations.

This vision is driven by the fact that our growing population and escalating energy demands necessitate a robust, reliable, and scalable power supply.

With a decentralized data center environment as frequent as gas stations, less strain will be placed on the environment, and AI will be more productive.

Imagine if a town the size of 500,000 people only had one gas station. It would not be productive, and the strain on supply would be unfeasible. Now, if you have 500 gas stations, that is per 10 people, then the situation gets much more manageable.” 

Data centers are not typically seen as attractive-looking landmarks. They are also not typically used for anything other than a data center. However, with the remote work society, and logistics and distribution changing for things like shopping malls, movie theaters, and skyscrapers, there sure is a lot of empty building space sitting around that can be repurposed into mixed-use complexes and buildings as data centers.

There are many landmarks today that have been turned into data centers, called adaptive reusage, but otherwise would have been decommissioned and destroyed. 

For example, historic structures like Milwaukee’s Wells Building and Portland’s Pittock Block have been repurposed into state-of-the-art data centers, preserving their architectural legacy while meeting modern technological demands.

Many of these buildings have historical value and meaning, and are not such a “community eyesore” and very “dystopian” looking. For example, the Western Union Building, 60 Hudson Street, has historically served as an office and telecommunications hub.

Today, however, it is primarily used as a data center and colocation facility, making it a prime example of adaptive reuse. While its core function is data center operations, elements of its traditional usage, such as office space and support services, still remain, reflecting its multifaceted role in New York City’s evolving infrastructure.

These buildings were once at risk of demolition or decommissioning as their original uses became obsolete. Instead of letting them be destroyed, innovative adaptive reuse projects have transformed these historic landmarks into modern data centers.

This approach not only preserves architectural heritage but also meets today’s growing technological needs. For instance, projects have repurposed structures like Milwaukee’s Wells Building and Portland’s Pittock Block, buildings that might have otherwise been demolished, into state-of-the-art data centers.

In Figure 5, the data center on the left, though not unattractive, feels plain and lacks character, intrigue, and meaning. In contrast, the images of 60 Hudson Street on the right showcase a building rich in substance, personality, and historical charm.

From a purely architectural perspective, many contemporary data centers follow a utilitarian, box-like design that prioritizes efficiency, cooling, and security over aesthetics. They often feature minimal ornamentation, subdued façades, and large footprints for equipment. While this design approach is practical, it can lack the visual appeal and historic character seen in older structures.

By contrast, 60 Hudson Street exemplifies an era of architecture in which buildings were designed to showcase craftsmanship and artistry. Built in an Art Deco style, its brick façade, ornate lobby detailing, and dramatic setbacks reflect the period’s emphasis on ornamentation and grandeur.

Even after being repurposed as a data center and telecommunications hub, it retains much of its original design intent and ambiance, giving it a sense of place and history that many newer facilities don’t replicate.

In short, the difference lies in the guiding priorities behind each building’s construction. Modern data centers focus on function first, large-scale power capacity, robust cooling, and physical security, whereas older buildings like 60 Hudson Street were shaped by an architectural tradition that valued aesthetic richness and craftsmanship as essential parts of a structure’s identity. 

Figure 5

This article proposes that data centers be integrated as a component of modern residential developments. The idea is to design mixed-use projects where data centers and residential units coexist in the same vicinity or even within the same building complex, creating synergies such as shared infrastructure, improved connectivity, and more efficient land use, rather than literally housing residents within a data center facility.

The other telltale sign about a commoditized approach to data centers comes from Sam Altman. In a recent interview, OpenAI co-founder Sam Altman said:

“We’re going to see 10-person companies with billion-dollar valuations pretty soon…in my little group chat with my tech CEO friends, there’s this betting pool for the first year there is a one-person billion-dollar company, which would’ve been unimaginable without AI. And now [it] will happen.”

If both statements become true, imagine the data center requirements. I repeat my gas station analogy.

If we accept Bill Gates’ perspective on the survival of certain energy sector jobs and Sam Altman’s prediction about the rise of hyper-efficient, lean companies, then the infrastructure supporting these trends, data centers, will need to evolve dramatically.

The idea is that data centers could become as ubiquitous and commoditized as gas stations. Just as gas stations are scattered throughout our landscapes to provide quick, localized fuel access, future data centers might be deployed in a decentralized manner to meet the explosive demand for computational power.

This transformation would be driven by the exponential growth of AI-driven applications, the need for ultra-low latency processing, and the energy requirements of quantum computing.

With advances in modular design, improved cooling systems, and energy efficiency, smaller data centers could be rapidly deployed in nearly every urban and rural corner, supporting the next wave of technological innovation.

While challenges like regulatory hurdles, cybersecurity, and capital expenditure remain, the convergence of these trends suggests that a commoditized, widely distributed data center model is feasible and likely necessary to sustain the future digital economy.

Feeding off my gas station analogy, let’s look at power substations. Imagine Chicago’s power grid: the city relies on around 1,300 substations to distribute electricity efficiently across neighborhoods.

These substations act as critical hubs that step down high-voltage electricity from power plants to levels safe and usable by homes and businesses. Now, consider the digital equivalent of these substations, data centers.

As our reliance on digital technologies grows, especially with the advent of AI and quantum computing, we need a similarly robust network to process, store, and distribute data. Just as substations are strategically positioned throughout Chicago to ensure reliable power delivery, data centers need to be widely distributed to meet increasing digital demands.

Digital transformation strategies for competitive advantage

Getting your digital transformation strategy right can lead businesses towards endless possibilities and provide a competitive advantage.

This analogy suggests that as our energy infrastructure scales up to support a city like Chicago, our digital infrastructure must also expand proportionately, necessitating more localized data centers to ensure low-latency, high-performance computing across the urban landscape.

Rethinking our digital infrastructure, I believe it’s ever more important to evolve data centers into a decentralized network as ubiquitous as gas stations. In today’s rapidly expanding digital landscape, which is driven by the exponential growth of AI and quantum computing, the demand for computational power is skyrocketing. 

Just as in my example above, a town with only one gas station for 500,000 people would struggle with supply. Relying on a few centralized data centers creates bottlenecks and latency issues.

A commoditized model, where data centers are as common as power substations in a city like Chicago, would distribute computing resources evenly, ensuring ultra-low latency and high-performance processing across both urban and rural areas.

My vision aligns with Bill Gates’ perspective on transforming energy sectors and Sam Altman’s prediction of hyper-efficient, lean companies emerging in our digital future.

With modular designs, improved cooling, and energy efficiency, widespread, localized data centers are feasible. They are becoming the lifeblood for sustaining our digital economy, reducing environmental strain, and supporting the next wave of technological innovation.

Leaving you my perspective

As an AI venture capitalist, I am shaped by my years as a U.S. Marine and my extensive experience in government. These roles have given me a front-row seat to the indispensable role that infrastructure and policy play in safeguarding national security and driving economic resilience.

Today, I stand at the intersection of technology and investment, and from where I see it, the future hinges on bold, strategic moves in three critical areas: next-generation data centers, quantum computing, and advanced energy solutions. These aren’t just trends or buzzwords; they are the pillars of a secure, competitive, and prosperous tomorrow. 

Technology alone doesn’t win the day; policy and leadership do. My years in the public sector drilled this into me. I’ve been in the rooms where decisions are made, and I’ve seen how effective collaboration between government and industry can turn ideas into action.

Right now, we need thinking and doing of substance vs more of the superficial developments we have seen with AI. We need regulatory frameworks that don’t stifle innovation but propel it forward while keeping security and sustainability front and center.

This isn’t about bureaucracy for its own sake. It’s about creating an environment where bold investments can flourish responsibly into technologies of substance, not superficial trends and hype.

Policymakers must work hand in hand with industry leaders to craft guidelines that protect our national interests, think cybersecurity, data privacy, and environmental impact, without slowing the pace of progress. My experience tells me this is possible. When the government and private sector align, the results are transformative. We need that alignment now more than ever.

As an AI venture capitalist, I’m observing these shifts and urging us to act on them. I call on my fellow investors, government officials, and industry pioneers to champion these strategic investments with me.

By rethinking our approach to data centers and advancing the energy grid infrastructure, we are creating the next wave of digital innovation and building a nation that’s secure, competitive, and ready for what’s ahead. I’ve seen what’s possible when we commit to a vision, whether on the battlefield, in the halls of government, or the boardroom.

Let’s not wait for the world to change around us. Let’s be the ones to drive that change. 

You can connect with Paul on LinkedIn and through his CV site.

[automedsystemspvt]

Boosting Safety and Efficiency with AutoMed Containment Isolators

Why Containment Matters in Hazardous Material Handling

In sectors where safety, sterility, and precision are critical, containment isolators are essential. AutoMed Systems offers advanced containment technologies built to meet stringent industry regulations. Their solutions—from rigid isolators to cleanroom-compatible models—provide reliable protection for both personnel and sensitive operations.

Innovative Containment Systems | Safe Handling of Hazardous Materials

AutoMed delivers next-gen containment technologies for the pharmaceutical, chemical, and food sectors. Their product lineup includes GMP washers, high-pressure reactors, and advanced material handling systems—each designed to enhance safety, ensure compliance, and boost process efficiency. A core strength lies in their containment isolators, tailored for secure and sterile operations.

Understanding Containment Isolators

Containment isolators are sealed, controlled environments that allow for the safe handling of hazardous or sensitive materials. They help prevent contamination, safeguarding both product integrity and operator health.

Core Features of AutoMed’s Containment Isolators

Rigid Containment Isolators: Built for high-risk settings, offering complete isolation and durability.

Cleanroom-Compatible Isolators: Maintain cleanroom integrity while securing critical processes.

Custom Engineered: Designed to meet unique operational requirements across industries.

Advanced Filtration & Airflow: HEPA filters and controlled airflow ensure a sterile, contaminant-free environment.

Ergonomic Design: Facilitates user comfort and process efficiency without compromising safety.

Applications in Multiple Sectors

Pharmaceutical & Biotech: Maintains sterility during manufacturing and R&D.

Healthcare & Laboratories: Shields personnel from biohazards.

Chemical & Industrial: Provides safe handling of toxic or reactive substances.

Why Partner with AutoMed Systems?

Recognized expertise in high-performance containment solutions

Technology is aligned with international regulatory standards

Customizable systems for diverse operational needs

Strong focus on operator safety, productivity, and innovation

Conclusion

In environments dealing with hazardous materials, robust containment is non-negotiable. Automedsystems leads the way with innovative isolator technologies that deliver uncompromised safety, precision, and compliance. Whether in pharma, biotech, or industrial sectors, Automed's solutions empower safer and more efficient operations. Discover more at automedsystems

[thessexpress]

From Accuracy to Innovation: The AIMS Controls Promise in Pressure Gauge Instrumentation

🧭 Introduction: Why Accuracy Alone Is No Longer Enough

In today’s industrial world, precision isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. But with evolving technologies and rising expectations across industries, accuracy alone is no longer enough. What businesses demand now is a balance of reliability, innovation, and smart integration.

This is where AIMS Controls emerges as a game-changer. From legacy industries like petrochemical and steel to modern sectors like pharmaceuticals and HVAC, AIMS Controls has become synonymous with elevated pressure gauge instrumentation—not just measuring pressure, but defining it.

⚙️ AIMS Controls: A Legacy Built on Precision

Founded under the registered trademark of PI Controls Instruments Pvt. Ltd. in 2018, AIMS Controls combines 20+ years of industry expertise to deliver high-performance measuring and control solutions. Their focus? Designing next-gen instruments like the pressure gauge, which consistently outperforms in terms of accuracy, durability, and application versatility.

With a 3,500 sq. ft. state-of-the-art production unit, AIMS Controls crafts pressure gauges that meet the most stringent national and international standards, including IS, ASME, JIS, and EN certifications.

🌡 Pressure Gauge: The Unsung Hero of Industrial Control

A pressure gauge is more than a mechanical meter—it's the pulse monitor of an entire system. Whether it's a chemical plant reactor, a boiler in a food processing facility, or a hydraulic press in a steel mill, the pressure gauge ensures safety, efficiency, and performance.

At AIMS Controls, pressure gauges are not generic tools—they're tailored instruments. Every component, from the bourdon tube to the dial face, is engineered with maximum reliability in mind.

🔍 What Sets AIMS Controls’ Pressure Gauges Apart?

🧪 1. Precision Calibration for Flawless Accuracy

Each pressure gauge undergoes rigorous testing and calibration to ensure it functions at peak precision—often within a 0.5% accuracy margin. These gauges are ideal for critical processes where even the slightest pressure deviation could lead to system failure or safety hazards.

🔩 2. Custom Build Capabilities

No two industries are the same, and neither are their challenges. AIMS Controls offers a wide range of pressure gauge types:

Glycerin-filled gauges for vibration-prone environments

SS316 gauges for corrosive conditions

Low-pressure capsule gauges

Sealed diaphragm-type gauges for sanitary processes

This customization ability allows businesses to meet sector-specific safety standards and operational goals with confidence.

🛡 3. Built to Last: Materials That Matter

Durability isn't an afterthought—it’s a design mandate. AIMS uses high-grade stainless steel, brass, and reinforced glass to ensure their pressure gauges withstand:

High-pressure environments

Extreme temperatures

Aggressive media exposure

Mechanical vibration and fatigue

This means fewer replacements, reduced maintenance costs, and longer operational life cycles.

🔬 Innovation That Redefines Pressure Monitoring

In a landscape where industries are shifting toward automation and smart systems, AIMS Controls stands ahead of the curve by integrating IoT and remote monitoring features into their instrumentation lineup.

From digital pressure gauges with backlit displays to electrical contact gauges that trigger alarms and system responses—innovation is embedded in every product line.

AIMS Controls is not just keeping up with Industry 4.0—it’s enabling it.

💡 Real-World Application: Where Pressure Gauge Meets Performance

Let’s look at a few examples of how AIMS Controls' pressure gauges are transforming industrial workflows:

🏭 Oil & Gas

Installed diaphragm-sealed gauges to manage corrosive crude oil environments

Enabled 24/7 pressure monitoring through signal-integrated gauges

Prevented overpressure events by integrating with SCADA systems

🧴 Pharma

Used tri-clover hygienic connections for sterile cleanrooms

Provided 0.25% accuracy pressure gauges for sensitive batch processes

Calibrated gauges with full traceability documentation for audits

🧊 HVAC & Refrigeration

Delivered dual pressure gauges with color-coded dials

Ensured pressure drop monitoring in chillers for energy optimization

Supplied frost-resistant gauges for sub-zero conditions

In every case, AIMS Controls didn't just deliver a product—they delivered process assurance and operational peace of mind.

🔧 A Value-Driven Approach: From Manufacturing to Maintenance

AIMS Controls provides end-to-end support to its customers:

Free Consultation to select the right pressure gauge

Tailor-made configurations per industrial specs

Calibration and repair services to extend instrument life

Engineering documentation including data sheets, certificates, and compliance documentation

The result? A 360° experience that maximizes uptime and minimizes effort.

📊 Competitive Edge: Why Clients Prefer AIMS Controls Over Global Brands

While global instrumentation brands often dominate the market, AIMS Controls has quickly become a top alternative—and in many cases, the preferred brand in India and abroad.

Why?

🌍 Global-Standard Quality, Local Prices

📦 Shorter Delivery Times due to in-house manufacturing

🛠 Greater Flexibility in custom designs

🤝 More Personalized Support

500+ companies already trust AIMS Controls. That number is growing—not by chance, but by consistent value delivery.

🚀 Future-Ready Vision: Where Is AIMS Controls Headed Next?

The company’s mission is clear—to become the premier supplier of measuring and control instruments, and the pressure gauge is central to this ambition.

Their R&D division is currently exploring:

Smart pressure gauges with wireless connectivity

AI-powered data analytics for predictive maintenance

Cloud dashboards for multi-location monitoring

The goal? To turn every pressure reading into a data-driven decision.

✅ Conclusion: Trust Built on Every Turn of the Needle

From concept to calibration, AIMS Controls redefines what a pressure gauge can do for modern industry. More than a measurement device, it becomes a symbol of trust, precision, and continuous innovation.

So, if your industrial operation depends on reliable pressure measurement—and whose doesn’t?—then it’s time to partner with a company that delivers more than just accuracy.

It’s time to experience the innovation, reliability, and commitment of AIMS Controls—the true pioneers in pressure gauge instrumentation.

[lunashare]

Aohong’s Thermoresistant Braided Matrix: Next-Gen Shaft Sealing Solutions‌

Since pioneering ceramic-reinforced packings in 2008, Aohong Sealing Technologies has redefined extreme-condition sealing. Our latest carbon-reinforced compression weave tackles a century-old challenge: maintaining seal integrity under simultaneous thermal shock and axial vibration.

‌Core Architecture‌ The multiaxial sealing braid combines:

Pyrolyzed PAN fibers (12K tow density)

Expandable graphite interlayers (98% purity)

Proprietary nano-coating (Patent Pending CN2023‌*****‌0A)

Performance Benchmarks: → Static pressure: 0-2800 PSI (ASTM F10921 compliance) → Cyclic load tolerance: 1500 PSI @ 120Hz → Thermal range: -196°C ~ +620°C continuous / 650°C peak

During offshore platform trials in Q2 2023, our team encountered - and solved - rapid decompression failures in CO₂ injection pumps. "Aohong's graphite-intercalated packing reduced emergency shutdowns by 83%," confirms PetroChina’s drilling engineer Zhang Wei.

‌Industry Validation‌

Shanghai Shipyard’s 2022 retrofit: 26-month service life in marine crankshafts vs. 18 months with PTFE variants

[Major Asian Steel Producer] achieved 37% downtime reduction in continuous casting lines

92% lower fugitive emissions in benzene transfer pumps (API 622 rev.3 tests)

Our ISO 17025-certified lab identified a curious pattern: the high - temperature stability actually improves during the first 200 operational hours. This self-conditioning phenomenon stems from the carbon lattice’s unique work-hardening behavior.

‌Installation Insights‌ • Requires 30% less gland space than traditional designs • Enables hot retightening without seal degradation • Eliminates dead packing through elastic recovery

Field engineers at Aohong’s Suzhou facility developed a clever workaround during a 2023 cement plant overhaul: using steam cleaning instead of solvent flushing before installation. This cut commissioning time from 6 hours to 45 minutes – a trick now standard in our manuals.

‌Technical Paradox Resolved‌ While maximum pressure ratings suggest 3000 PSI capability (see page 4), our marine engine tests revealed an unexpected advantage. The compressive carbon lattice maintains better leakage control at 1500-1800 PSI cyclic loads than static high-pressure scenarios. Why? The weaving pattern’s hysteresis effect actually enhances seal conformity during dynamic operation.

Applications turbines, chemical reactors, and other high-load gland filler scenarios now benefit from Aohong’s 15-year R&D investment. As one plant manager quipped during acceptance testing: "This isn’t packing material – it’s mechanical armor."

‌Upgrade Your Sealing Regime‌ Contact Aohong’s engineering team to request field-proven compressive carbon lattice starter kits –complete with laser-etched installation guides.

[pearlharborshipresort]

@pentuplesized

@pearlharborshipresort That...huh-? It takes calories to make milk in the first place, unless her physiology allows different-

Her heart is a nuclear reactor that could power a rural American town for the next thousand years, and she doesn’t require food or water to sustain herself.

She, as well as the rest of the Gen Ones, are essentially “perpetual motion machines” with batteries hidden inside, effectively she isn’t a closed system.

[sassywerewolfmagazine]

Next-Gen Pyrolysis: The Future of Waste-to-Energy Solutions

Introduction

With increasing global waste challenges, Waste Tyre Oil Machine and Waste Plastic Pyrolysis Machine are transforming waste into valuable energy. Through Waste Tyre Pyrolysis Plant and Plastic Pyrolysis, industries can efficiently reduce landfill waste while producing cleaner fuel alternatives.

This article explores the next generation of pyrolysis technology and its role in sustainable energy. For further insights, visit usedengineoil.in and wastetireoil.net.

Understanding Pyrolysis Technology

Pyrolysis is a thermal decomposition process that converts plastic and tyre waste into fuel oil, carbon black, and syngas. Conducted in an oxygen-free environment, this method offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly energy recovery solution.

Key Advantages of Pyrolysis Technology:

Reduces Waste Accumulation: Diverts non-recyclable waste from landfills.

Provides Renewable Fuel Sources: Supports industries with alternative energy solutions.

Decreases Carbon Footprint: Lowers greenhouse gas emissions and fossil fuel dependence.

How Pyrolysis Converts Waste into Energy

1. Waste Collection and Pre-Treatment

Plastics and tyres are collected, sorted, and processed to ensure maximum efficiency in the pyrolysis system.

2. Thermal Breakdown in Pyrolysis Reactors

The waste is introduced into a Waste Tyre Pyrolysis Plant or Waste Plastic Pyrolysis Machine and heated under controlled conditions, breaking it down into gas and liquid components.

3. Fuel Recovery and Refinement

The vaporized components condense into pyrolysis oil, which can be further refined into diesel or used as an industrial fuel.

4. Byproduct Utilization

Carbon black and syngas are extracted and repurposed for industrial applications, reducing waste and increasing efficiency.

Industries Benefiting from Pyrolysis Energy

Power Generation: Pyrolysis oil is used for industrial heating and electricity production.

Manufacturing: Carbon black is essential in rubber, plastic, and ink production.

Transportation: Refined pyrolysis oil serves as an alternative fuel for vehicles.

The Future of Pyrolysis: Advancements and Innovations

Enhanced Efficiency: Cutting-edge reactor designs are increasing fuel yields and energy efficiency.

Government Support: Policies and incentives are encouraging large-scale adoption of pyrolysis plants.

Integration with Renewable Technologies: Pyrolysis is being combined with solar and biomass energy for sustainable solutions.

Why Pyrolysis is the Future of Renewable Energy

With ongoing advancements in Plastic Pyrolysis, this technology is becoming more efficient and scalable. The future of pyrolysis will see expanded industrial use as businesses prioritize sustainable energy solutions.

Conclusion

The Waste Tyre Oil Machine and Waste Plastic Pyrolysis Machine are leading the way in waste-to-energy innovation. As industries commit to reducing environmental impact, pyrolysis technology will continue to play a vital role in the clean energy transition. To learn more, visit usedengineoil.in and wastetireoil.net.

[engineering-materials]

Ultra-Pure Quartz Tubes

‌

‌Ultra-Pure Quartz Tubes: The Silent Backbone of the New Energy Revolution‌

Let’s get one thing straight: the “new energy” boom isn’t just about lithium, solar cells, or hydrogen. The real unsung hero? Ultra-pure quartz tubes. These unassuming glass cylinders are the linchpin holding together everything from fusion reactors to next-gen batteries. Forget graphene hype or ceramic fads—quartz’s 99.99% SiO₂ purity and thermal defiance make it irreplaceable. Here’s why three specific variants—‌Quartz Capillary Tubes‌, ‌Fused Quartz Tubes‌, and ‌Quartz Tubes for Furnaces‌—are non-negotiable in the race toward clean energy.

‌1. Quartz Capillary Tubes: Where Precision Meets Electrochemistry‌

Picture this: a lithium-sulfur battery that doesn’t combust. How? Quartz capillary tubes, with inner diameters as tiny as 10µm, are enabling targeted electrolyte distribution in solid-state batteries. Tesla’s R&D team recently embedded these tubes into their 4680 cells to channel ionic liquids directly to sulfur cathodes, slashing dendrite growth by 92%‌14. The secret? Quartz’s non-reactive surface prevents electrolyte degradation—unlike stainless steel capillaries that leach metallic ions under high voltages‌47.

But here’s the kicker: their UV transparency (up to 185nm) allows real-time monitoring of electrolyte flow using embedded sensors. BYD’s solid-state prototypes use this feature to adjust ion flux dynamically, squeezing out an extra 15% energy density‌5.

‌2. Fused Quartz Tubes: The Fusion Reactor’s Lifeline‌

Nuclear fusion isn’t just about containing plasma—it’s about surviving it. Fused quartz tubes, with zero bubble inclusions, line the diagnostic ports of ITER’s tokamak. When hydrogen plasma hits 150 million °C, these tubes transmit critical spectroscopic data without melting or clouding—something even “super-materials” like aerogels fail at‌45.

Westinghouse took this further: their small modular reactors (SMRs) use fused quartz tubes to circulate molten salts. Why? Chlorine-rich coolants corrode stainless steel in months, but quartz laughs at chloride ions, maintaining integrity for decades‌34.

‌3. Quartz Tubes for Furnaces: Solar’s Invisible Workhorse‌

Every solar panel starts in a furnace, and quartz tubes are the gatekeepers of purity. Take First Solar’s CdTe thin-film production: their 1,200°C annealing furnaces rely on quartz tubes to prevent cadmium contamination. A single metallic impurity would slash panel efficiency by 20%—but quartz’s inertness ensures 99.999% material purity‌17.

Even better: their thermal shock resistance lets manufacturers ramp temperatures from 25°C to 1,000°C in seconds. Hanwha Q CELLS credits this trait for cutting PERC cell production time by 34%—a game-changer in a sector where throughput is king‌45.

‌Why Quartz Outshines the “Next Big Things”‌

Critics whine about quartz being “old-school.” Tell that to the engineers who’ve watched:

‌Graphene‌ crack under cyclic thermal stress in fuel cells‌5.

‌Ceramics‌ shatter when exposed to lithium salts‌7.

‌Stainless steel‌ corrode into toxic sludge in molten salt reactors‌34.

Quartz isn’t flashy, but it’s reliability incarnate. In an era where energy storage and generation demand perfection, compromise isn’t an option.

‌The Bottom Line‌ The new energy revolution isn’t waiting for miracle materials—it’s leveraging quartz’s ancient strengths to solve modern problems. From capillary-guided electrolytes to fusion-proof diagnostics, these tubes aren’t just components; they’re the bedrock of a carbon-neutral future. Ignore them, and your “breakthrough” tech will crumble faster than a lithium dendrite.