Futuristic data storage

The development of high-density data storage devices requires the highest possible density of elements in an array made up of individual nanomagnets. The closer they are together, the greater the magnetic interactions between them. Researchers now have devised a new model to study the variation of the magnetic interaction between such nanomagnets.

The fingerprints of harmful molecules could be detected noninvasively via black silicon

A group of physicists experimentally confirmed that molecular fingerprints of toxic, explosive, polluting and other dangerous substances could be reliably detected and identified by surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) using black silicon (b-Si) substrate.

An unlikely marriage among oxides

Researchers are looking for new materials with unusual properties that were so far not accessible in experiments. To do this, they connect partners who don't really fit together: One partner forces the other into a state that would not be possible without the unlikely pairing.

Scientists make the first molecular movie of one of nature's most widely used light sensors

The X-ray laser movie shows what happens when light hits retinal, a key part of vision in animals and photosynthesis in microbes. The action takes place in a trillionth of an eye blink.

These nanoscale 'crack-junctions' can speed up DNA sequencing

The time-consuming, expensive process of sequencing DNA molecules could become a whole lot faster and cheaper as a result of a new nanofabrication method that takes advantage of nano-sized air-gaps, or nanocracks, in electrically conductive materials.

Game-changing finding pushes 3D-printing to the molecular limit

New research proves that advanced materials containing molecules that switch states in response to environmental stimuli such as light can be fabricated using 3D printing.

Can you see the invisible glass?

Creating nanotextured glass surfaces completely eliminates reflections of all colors of light, making the glass nearly invisible.

A bit of quantum logic - What did the atom say to the quantum dot?

Scientists demonstrate coherent coupling between a quantum dot and a donor atom in silicon, vital for moving information inside quantum computers.

Nanocrystals impact stem cell fate during bone formation

Researchers have identified a master regulator for bone regeneration.

Ground-breaking discoveries could create superior alloys with many applications

Scientists hailed a major breakthrough in understanding how alloys behave at high temperatures, pointing the way to significant improvements in many technologies.