Insights into obscure metal-insulator transition uncovered by X-rays

The list of potential mechanisms that underlie an unusual metal-insulator transition has been narrowed by a team of scientists using a combination of X-ray techniques. This transition has ramifications for material design for electronics and sensors.

Nanotechnology in food and agriculture: regulations require collaboration to ensure safety

An overview of regulatory solutions worldwide on the use of nanotechnology in food and feed production shows a differing approach: only the EU and Switzerland have nano-specific provisions incorporated in existing legislation, whereas other countries count on non-legally binding guidance and standards for industry.

Curly nanowires catch more light to power nanoscale electronic circuits

Twisting conventional nanowires into springs can boost their light absorption by more than 20 percent, while using up to 50 percent less area.

Nano-beads for the steel forge

The crystal structure of metals can change at linear defects, which should affect the properties of the materials.

Transition metal dichalcogenide plasmonic biosensors

Researchers propose a novel SPR sensing configuration using graphene-MoS2 hybrid structures.

Building materials one atomic layer at a time aids the search for exotic phases of matter

A new technique for identifying exotic states of matter in crystalline materials has been demonstrated by researchers.

Modeling self-organization in biological pattern formation

An experimentally confirmed mathematical model provides insight into the process of self-organization of intracellular molecular patterns.

Optoelectronics: Tapering off for efficiency

A new compact structure enables efficient lasers to be realized on silicon chips.

Batteries: Power of marine inspiration

Bioinspired carbon anodes enable high performance in lithium-ion batteries.