Insights into catalytic converters

X-ray methods reveal interactions of active metals with gas molecules.

3D 'printouts' at the nanoscale using self-assembling DNA structures

The new technique makes it possible to synthesize 3D DNA origami structures that are also able to tolerate the low salt concentrations inside the body, which opens the way for completely new biological applications of DNA nanotechnology. The design process is also highly automated, which enables the creation of synthetic DNA nanostructures of remarkable complexity.

Magnetic material unnecessary to create spin current

Researchers that you don't need a magnetic material to create spin current from insulators. This discovery has important implications for the field of spintronics and the development of high-speed, low-power electronics that use electron spin rather than charge to carry information.

A new way to black gold

Colloidosomes made of gold nanoparticles offer strong plasmonic coupling.

Could stronger, tougher nanocellulose paper replace metal?

Researchers recently discovered that paper made of cellulose fibers is tougher and stronger the smaller the fibers get.

Acetic acid as a proton shuttle in gold chemistry

A recently published study gives a vivid example of unusual chemical reactivity found in the reactions with organogold complexes. Using the complex of modern physical methods joined with computational studies, the authors proposed reaction mechanism, where a molecule of acetic acid serves as a proton shuttle, transferring the hydrogen atom between the reaction centers.

Illuminating the electronic properties of graphene

Researchers have shown that both the carrier mobility and the carrier density of graphene can be measured in a spatially resolved and non-destructive way - providing 'maps' of the electronic properties critical for the successful use of graphene in photovoltaics, electronics, spintronics and optics - using terahertz radiation and doing away with the need to fabricate devices.

Changing the color of light

Research could lead to improved efficiency of solar cells, cancer treatments and medical imaging.

Graphene - from science fundamentals to low-cost production

Keynote presentations on the third day of Graphene Week 2015 offered an eclectic mix of fundamental science and practical chemical engineering. Here we report briefly on each of the talks, beginning with an introduction to optoelectronics in 2D semiconductors and heterostructures, and concluding with an outline of a highly promising 'kitchen sink' approach to graphene production.

A 'nanomachine' for surgery with no incision

Hybrid calcium phosphate-polymeric micelles incorporating gadolinium chelates for imaging-guided gadolinium neutron capture tumor therapy.