The flat and the curious

Researchers have simulated the growth of silicene, a 2-D material with attractive electronic properties. Their work delivers new and useful insights on the material?s properties and behavior and offers a predictive model for other researchers studying 2-D materials.

Atoms depart when oxides meet

Harnessing lost atoms may aid in crafting new, never-before-seen oxides.

'Smart' paper can conduct electricity, detect water

The paper, laced with conductive nanomaterials, can be employed as a switch, turning on or off an LED light or an alarm system indicating the absence or presence of water.

Age-old malaria treatment found to improve nanoparticle delivery to tumors

Nanomedicine researchers find new use for 70-year-old drug.

Beyond good vibrations: New insights into metamaterial magic

Metamaterials have amazing potential--think invisibility cloaks and perfect lenses - but they are more likely to be found in a Harry Potter novel than a lab. To help bring them closer to reality, researchers have gone back to basics and demonstrated that the fundamental physics of metamaterials is more complex than scientists once thought.

Subset of carbon nanotubes poses cancer risk similar to asbestos in mice

Researchers have shown for the first time in mice that long and thin nanomaterials called carbon nanotubes may have the same carcinogenic effect as asbestos: they can induce the formation of mesothelioma.

Autonomously growing synthetic DNA strands

Molecular Robotics advance could enable new generation of self-assembling programmable devices.

Researchers probe brain disease-causing proteins at the atomic level

A change in a single amino acid determines which species are vulnerable, study finds.

Brighter flexible electroluminescent film by adopting eye structure of nocturnal animals

Researchers have developed an electroluminescent film that is four times brighter than the existing one.

Antiferromagnetic dysprosium reveals magnetic switching with less energy

Scientists have identified a mechanism with which it may be possible to develop a form of magnetic storage that is faster and more energy efficient.

Diffused light shows clear structures

Scientists gain an insight into the fascinating world of atoms and molecules using x-ray microscopes.

Novel nanosensor is like a FitBit for inside the body

Researchers develop nanoparticles that latch onto bacteria and viruses and kill or render them innocuous.

New practice guide on the characterisation of graphene

A newly published 'good practice guide' aims to tackle the ambiguity surrounding how to measure graphene?s characteristics.

A green nanocatalyst for refining chemicals in plant waste

Researchers create catalyst for refining chemicals in plant waste, allowing a green way to produce valuable raw materials.

Simple green nanoparticle synthesis is a breath of fresh air

A method for creating nanoparticles without using solvents could lead to environmentally friendly electronics.