Seeing energized light-active molecules proves quick work for scientists

To understand how molecules undergo light-driven chemical transformations, scientists need to be able to follow the atoms and electrons within the energized molecule as it gains and loses energy. In a recent study, a team of researchers used ultrafast high-intensity pulsed X-rays to take molecular snapshots of these molecules.

Measuring forces in the DNA molecule

First direct measurements of base-pair bonding strength.

Containing 'electromagnetic pollution' with MXenes

New findings suggest that a few-atoms thin titanium carbide, one of about 20 two-dimensional materials of MXene family, can be more effective at blocking and containing electromagnetic interference, with the added benefit of being extremely thin and easily applied in a coating just by spraying it onto any surface - like paint.

Collaboration strikes gold pioneering a new method for catalyst production

Jet stream of liquid helium blows gold vapor through a barren, cold landscape to deposit pristine, stable gold nanoparticles.

Making sense of failure in light-harvesting semiconductors

Researchers reveal the factors that affect the stability of semiconductors in solar fuel devices to aid the discovery of next-generation materials.

New material to revolutionize water proofing (w/video)

Scientists have developed a new spray-on nanomaterial with a remarkable ability to repel water.

Tiny gold grids yielding secrets

Researchers explore processes for making ordered metal nanostructures that display interesting new properties.

Mechanical engineering in hot pursuit of creeping bacteria

Understanding how bacteria grows and spreads can help improve health care outcomes.

Nanocoated stealth pig cells may hold the key to treating diabetes in humans

Coating insulin-producing cell-clusters with a thin protective layers may be a way to modify and use pig tissue to ultimately treat human diabetes.