Stretching and twisting RNA molecules

Single-molecule experiments reveal surprising differences amongst the 'molecular cousins' DNA and RNA when stretched and twisted.

NSF grant to extend lifespan of Li-ion batteries, make them more environmentally friendly

A Virginia Commonwealth University professor has received a five-year, $505,000 award from the National Science Foundation to make lithium-ion batteries - which power electric vehicles and portable electronic devices - far more efficient, sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Transparent artificial nacre: A brick wall at the nanoscale

Scientists prepared a nacre-inspired nanocomposite that combines exceptional mechanical properties with glass-like transparency and a high gas- and fire-barrier.

Graphene brings quantum effects to electronic circuits

Research by scientists attached to the EC's Graphene Flagship has revealed a superfluid phase in ultra-low temperature 2D materials, creating the potential for electronic devices which dissipate very little energy.

Smart keyboard cleans and powers itself - and can tell who you are

In a novel twist in cybersecurity, scientists have developed a self-cleaning, self-powered smart keyboard that can identify computer users by the way they type.

The path to artificial photosynthesis

Researchers describe an efficient manganese catalyst capable of converting light to chemical energy.

Better metal contact improves two-dimensional transistor performance

Researchers found that silver provides a much better electrical contact to MoS2 than the widely used titanium, with the silver-contact devices having 60 times higher current when the device is in the 'on' state. These results are another step towards the advanced manufacture of high-value products based on 2D materials.

Decorative and flexible solar panels become part of interior design and the appearance of objects

A new mass production method based on printing technologies allows the manufacturing of decorative, organic solar panels. Design freedom improves the range of applications of the panels on the surfaces of interior and exterior building spaces.

A spoonful of sugar in silver nanoparticles to regulate their toxicity

The use of colloidal silver to treat illnesses has become more popular in recent years, but its ingestion, prohibited in countries like the U.S., can be harmful to health. Scientists have now confirmed that silver nanoparticles are significantly toxic when they penetrate cells, although the number of toxic radicals they generate can vary by coating them with carbohydrates.

Printable luminous nanoparticles enable cost-effective, large and curved luminous surfaces

A new method enables electroluminescence on large, curved surfaces in a cost-effective way: in this case, the light-emitting layer and all other components are produced by means of wet-chemical, printable methods.

Self-assembled nanotextures create antireflective surface on silicon solar cells

Nanostructured surface textures - with shapes inspired by the structure of moths' eyes - prevent the reflection of light off silicon, improving conversion of sunlight to electricity.

Watching protein crystal nucleation in real time

A major hurdle in structural biology and pharmacology is growing crystals to determine the structure of the biomolecules and pharmaceuticals under study. Researchers have now observed a key step in the nucleation and growth of some protein crystals.

Nano-beaker offers insight Into the condensation of atoms

An international team of physicists has succeeded in mapping the condensation of individual atoms, or rather their transition from a gaseous state to another state, using a new method.