New shortcut to solar cells

Scientists have found a way to simplify the manufacture of solar cells by using the top electrode as the catalyst that turns plain silicon into valuable black silicon.

Researchers build new fermion microscope

A team of physicists has built a microscope that is able to see up to 1,000 individual fermionic atoms. The researchers devised a laser-based technique to trap and freeze fermions in place, and image the particles simultaneously.

Researchers discover 'swing-dancing' pairs of electrons

Findings set the stage for room-temperature superconductivity and the transformation of high-speed rail, quantum computers.

New nanomaterials inspired by bird feathers play with light to create color

Inspired by the way iridescent bird feathers play with light, scientists have created thin films of material in a wide range of pure colors - from red to green - with hues determined by physical structure rather than pigments.

UK's first superconducting quantum bit foundry

A team of researchers, have designed, built and operated the first working superconducting qubit device in the UK.

Nanomaterials in sunscreens and boats leave marine life vulnerable

Nanomaterials commonly used in sunscreens and boat-bottom paints are making sea urchin embryos more vulnerable to toxins, according to a new study. The authors said this could pose a risk to coastal, marine and freshwater environments.

Partnership creates all-new, nanoscale chemical imaging technique

Researchers have invented an algorithm named TASC (Thermal Analysis for Structural Characterisation).