Surf and earth: how prawn nanocomposite shopping bags could save the planet

Bioengineers are trialling how to use shrimp shells to make biopolymer nanocomposite materials for biodegradable shopping bags, as a 'green' alternative to oil-based plastic, and as a new food packaging material to extend product shelf life.

Zeroing in on the true nature of fluids within nanocapillaries

While exploring the behavior of fluids at the nanoscale, a group of researchers discovered a peculiar state of fluid mixtures contained in microscopic channels.

New active filaments mimic biology to transport nano-cargo

A new design for a fully biocompatible motility engine transports colloidal particles faster than diffusion with active filaments.

Experimental semiconductor eyed for next-generation 'power electronics'

Researchers have demonstrated the high-performance potential of an experimental transistor made of a semiconductor called beta gallium oxide, which could bring new ultra-efficient switches for applications such as the power grid, military ships and aircraft.

New properties discovered in atom-wide troughs

Scientists found that removing lines of atoms in thin electronic materials creates 'veins' that could benefit solar panels and more.

Nanotechnology and 3D printing, a mighty alliance to detect toxic liquids

When carbon nanotubes and 3D printing combine with the right polymer, in this case a thermoplastic, something special occurs: electrical conductivity increases and makes it possible to monitor liquids in real time.

An ordered route to improved solar cell performance

Reliable processing of an efficient solar cell material depends on how the solvent is removed.

Magnetic discovery could be tip of the 'ice'berg

A new material, called 'rewritable magnetic charge ice', has an unprecedented degree of control over local magnetic fields. The artificial, magnetically charged structure is formed by manipulating local magnetic charges that set the state of the magnetic 'bits'.

2D materials enhance a 3D world

Researchers seek to improve optoelectronic devices by adding a 2D layer of molybdenum disulfide to an organic semiconductor, which has similar absorption strengths as molybdenum disulfide.