Ultralow power transistors could function for years without a battery

A newly-developed form of transistor opens up a range of new electronic applications including wearable or implantable devices by drastically reducing the amount of power used. Devices based on this type of ultralow power transistor could function for months or even years without a battery by 'scavenging' energy from their environment.

Smashing metallic cubes toughens them up (w/video)

Scientists fire micro-cubes at target to change their nanoscale structures.

The next big renewable energy source could be at our feet

Flooring can be made from any number of sustainable materials, making it, generally, an eco-friendly feature in homes and businesses alike. Now, flooring could be even more 'green', thanks to an inexpensive, simple method that allows engineers to convert footsteps into usable electricity.

Light speckles having a conversation

The amount of light passing through an opaque layer, can be enhanced using smart techniques. At the same time, the amount of reflected light diminishes, researchers show. It's as if light speckles have a conversation of their own.

Shedding light on the secrets of nano-sized processors

Researchers have successfully filmed light and electrons coupled together as they travel undercover through nano-sized processors.

UV light improves smartphone cameras

Photodetectors are typically only sensitive to light within a certain narrow bandwidth, which causes numerous problems to product developers. Now, researchers have found a way to address this by treating an ordinary photodetector with UV light can turn it into a high bandwidth device.