Catching molecular dance moves in slow motion by adding white noise

Enhanced stochastic fluctuation via electronic white noise greatly improves atomic force microscopy capture of energy well details.

New math tools for new materials

A mathematician presents a new tool for understanding how energy waves move through complex materials, opening up possibilities to design materials that absorb or bend energy as desired.

A phone that charges in seconds? Scientists bring it closer to reality

Novel method for creating supercapacitors shows remarkable results.

New ultra-thin semiconductor could extend life of Moore's Law

Following a decade of intensive research into graphene and two-dimensional materials a new semiconductor material shows potential for the future of super-fast electronics. The new semiconductor named Indium Selenide (InSe) is only a few atoms thick, similarly to graphene.

Watching how plants make oxygen

In a new study, an international team of researchers made significant progress in visualizing the process how plants split water to produce oxygen.

New solution for making 2-D nanomaterials

Two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials have been made by dissolving layered materials in liquids, according to new research. The liquids can be used to apply the 2D nanomaterials over large areas and at low costs, enabling a variety of important future applications.

Improving microscale energy storage unit with porous materials

Microscale energy storage units for wearable and miniaturized electronic devices are improved using porous materials.

Color-changing nanocoatings ready for the big time

Wafer-thin, scratch-proof films can generate a rainbow of colors using random metallic nanostructures.

A nanoparticle boost for solar-powered water heating

Scientists analytically studied the optical absorption efficiency of a TiN nanoparticle and found that it has a broad and strong absorption peak thanks to lossy plasmonic resonances. Surprisingly, the sunlight absorption efficiency of a TiN nanoparticle outperforms that of a carbon nanoparticle and a gold nanoparticle.