Nanomaterial risk assessment frameworks and tools evaluated

A recent study has evaluated frameworks and tools used in Europe to assess the potential health and environmental risks of manufactured nanomaterials. The study identifies a trend towards tools that provide protocols for conducting experiments, which enable more flexible and efficient hazard testing.

Creating protein crystals from gold

Scientists have revealed how materials such as gold can help create protein crystals.

How to increase efficiencies of ultrathin CIGSe solar cells

Researchers have shown how to prevent the absorption loss of ultrathin CIGSe cells. They designed nanostructured back contacts for light trapping and could achieve a new record value of the the short circuit current density reaching nearly the best values for thicker CIGSe-cells.

Drug combination delivered by nanoparticles may help in melanoma treatment

The first of a new class of medication that delivers a combination of drugs by nanoparticle may keep melanoma from becoming resistant to treatment.

Two-dimensional MXene materials get their close-up

Direct evidence confirms structure of conductor promising for energy, catalysis, electronics.

Acetone experiences Leidenfrost effect, no hotplate needed

Cleaning lab equipment leads to the discovery of Leidenfrost behavior of acetone droplets on the surface of water, and surprising effects of drag and self-propulsion, studied for the first time.

Switching oxygen on and off

It has become possible to control one of the most important chemical processes: switching oxygen molecules between a reactive and unreactive state.

Imaging at the speed of light (w/video)

Researchers have developed a technique to visualize, for the first time, the complete evolution of micro- and nanoscale structural formation on a material's surface, both during and after the application of a laser pulse.

Bonding chips using inkjet printers and silver nanoparticles

Using ink with silver nanoparticles offers capability for new rigid and flexible hybrid circuitry.

New platform for culturing stem cells

Powerful new tool combines micro and nanotechnologies to precisely control stem cell culturing environment.

Iron nanocubes may be key in the future of NO2 sensing

Researchers report a flexible approach to produce Fe nanocubes as building blocks for high-performance NO2 gas sensor devices, and hybrid FeAu nanocubes with magneto-plasmonic properties.