Tuesday, March 10, 2015

Graphene-coated nanowires eyed for computers, flexible displays

A new process for coating copper nanowires with graphene lowers resistance and heating, suggesting potential applications in computer chips and flexible displays.


FDA adopts 3 standards focusing on nanotechnology

U.S. FDA adopted 3 nanotechnology standards as part of update to List of Recognized Standards.

The chameleon reorganizes its nanocrystals to change colors

Many chameleons have the remarkable ability to exhibit complex and rapid color changes during social interactions. A collaboration of scientists unveils the mechanisms that regulate this phenomenon.


Researchers snap-shot fastest observations of superconductivity yet

An international team of researchers has used infinitely short light pulses to observe ultrafast changes in the electron-level properties of superconductors, setting a new standard for temporal resolution in the field.

Mid-IR frequency combs enable high resolution spectroscopy for sensitive gas sensing

Researchers have developed mid-infrared frequency combs, working in the mid-infrared molecular fingerprinting region of the electromagnetic spectrum. In this wavelength region, many molecules have specific absorption bands that can be used in spectroscopy to determine the presence and concentration of these molecules in samples.


New formula for identifying suitable graphene substrate

Physicists have developed a criterion with which scientists can seek suitable substrate materials for graphene in a targeted way. Interactions with the substrate material often lead to a loss of the amazing properties that characterize this special form of carbon.


Non-protein nucleating agent specifically designed for automated protein crystallization trials

Scientists are developing new nanomaterials and technologies that include high-throughput methods for producing nucleating protein crystals that are pivotal to the structural determination of biological molecules at atomic resolution. These underpin rational drug design, the understanding of biochemical mechanisms and other biotechnological applications.


New study suggests current water treatment methods not sufficient to remove engineered nanoparticle

A new study suggests that current methods of water prefiltration treatment cannot adequately remove titanium dioxide engineered nanomaterials.

High performance, lightweight supercapacitor electrodes of the future

Researchers have developed a novel electrode to make low-cost, lightweight supercapacitors with superior performance, a development that could mean faster charging time and longer battery life in electric vehicles and portable electronics.


Nitrogenated 2D crystals could rival graphene

Researchers in South Korea have, for the first time, developed a simple technique to produce a two-dimensional nitrogen-containing crystal that has the capacity to be a potential rival to graphene and silicon as semi-conductor materials.

Nanotechnology for composites: Design, simulation, and applications

A new book reviews the recent progress in application of engineered nanopolymer and nanoparticles and their composites. The advantages and disadvantages of different methods are discussed.


Nanoparticles could make big impact for patients in need of cornea transplant

Animal study shows that a nanoparticle applied at the time of surgery slowly releases needed medicine to reduce risk of rejection after eye surgery.

Optical microfibres light the way for brain-like computing

Computers that function like the human brain could soon become a reality thanks to new research using optical fibres made of speciality glass.


Scientists have found a way to make the strongest spider silk fibers

Researchers have produced the strongest spider silk fiber so far. Given the good properties of this new material, this silk can be used for regenerative medicine.


Hydrocarbon photocatalysts get in shape and go for gold

A combination of semiconductor catalysts, optimum catalyst shape, gold-copper co-catalyst alloy nanoparticles and hydrous hydrazine reducing agent enables an increase of hydrocarbon generation from CO2 by a factor of ten.