Coming together, falling apart, and starting over, battery style

New device shows what happens when electrode, electrolyte, and active materials meet in energy storage technologies.

Molecular scale transporter with a twist, powered by liquid crystal defects

Delivery of biochemical substances is now possible using a novel application of liquid crystal defects, forming a loop enclosing the substance travelling alongside twisted fibers.

Molecular motor-powered biocomputers

A recently launched research project aims to develop a biocomputer based on highly efficient molecular motors that will use a fraction of the energy of existing computers, and that can tackle problems where many solutions need to be explored simultaneously.

Special nanopowders for the synthesis of new aluminum alloys

Researchers have produced special nanopowders, which are used as modifying additives in the production of aluminum alloys. This method will significantly improve the operational properties of the foundry products, and reduce the energy costs for its final processing.

'Flying saucer' quantum dots hold secret to brighter, better lasers

Research team 'squashes' the shape of nanoparticles, enabling inexpensive lasers that continuously emit light in a customized rainbow of colors.

Light-controlled gearbox for nanomachines

Researchers have succeeded in developing a complex molecular motor that can work in one direction and its opposite. The system can even be controlled precisely, in the same way as a gearbox.

A bio-inspired gel material could help engineers control movements of soft robots

Worm-inspired material strengthens, changes shape in response to its environment.

Star-spangled find may lead to advanced electronics

In a new paper, scientists describe a material that, when heated to about 450 degrees Celsius, transforms from an atomically thin, two-dimensional sheet into an array of one-dimensional nanowires, each just a few atoms wide.

Engineers develop novel nanofiber solution for clean, fresh air

A research team has successfully concocted a novel nanofiber solution that creates thin, see-through air filters that can remove up to 90 per cent of PM2.5 particles and achieve high air flow of 2.5 times better than conventional air filters.

Chaos makes carbon materials lighter and stronger

Aerospace researchers have demonstrated that some randomness in the arrangement of carbon atoms makes materials that are lighter and stronger.

Tethered nanoparticles make tumor cells more vulnerable

New strategy could improve performance of some immune-based drugs.