Quantum physics on tap (w/video)

Nano-sized faucet offers experimental support for longstanding quantum theory.

Random nanowire configurations increase conductivity over heavily ordered configurations

Researchers have identified for the first time that a performance gain in the electrical conductivity of random metal nanowire networks can be achieved by slightly restricting nanowire orientation. The most surprising result of the study is that heavily ordered configurations do not outperform configurations with some degree of randomness; randomness in the case of metal nanowire orientations acts to increase conductivity.

Exploring a new frontier of cyber-physical systems: The human body

A team of leading computer scientists, roboticists and biologists have come together to develop a system that combines the capabilities of nanoscale robots with specially designed synthetic organisms. Together, they believe this hybrid 'bio-CPS' will be capable of performing heretofore impossible functions, from microscopic assembly to cell sensing within the body.

Within colors of bees and butterflies, an optical engineer's dream is realized

Rersearchers used used high-intensity X-rays to investigate color-producing nanostructures within hair-like structures that cover some species of butterflies, weevils and beetles, bees, and spiders and tarantulas. They found that the architecture of these nanostructures are identical to chemical polymers engineered by chemists and materials scientists.

A sweat nanosensor assesses your health

Made from state-of-the-art silicon transistors, an ultra-low power sensor enables real-time scanning of the contents of liquids such as perspiration. Compatible with advanced electronics, this technology boasts exceptional accuracy - enough to manufacture mobile sensors that monitor health.

Towards a tunable graphene-like two-dimensional material

Researchers built a porous, layered material that can serve as a graphene analog, and which may be a tool for storing energy and investigating the physics of unusual materials.

Electrons reveal the hidden structure of proteins

An innovative crystallography technique reveals the charge distribution in protein structures.

Researchers demonstrate first large-scale graphene fabrication

One of the barriers to using graphene at a commercial scale could be overcome using a method demonstrated by researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Flicking the switch on spin-driven devices

Compressing magnetically and electrically active crystals in one direction unlocks exotic spintronic switching activity.