Achieving ultra-low friction without oil additives

Researchers have developed a new process for treating metal surfaces that has the potential to improve efficiency in piston engines and a range of other equipment.

Potential cancer treatment using microwaves and nanoparticles to target deep tumors

Physicists have shown that using microwaves to activate photosensitive nanoparticles produces tissue-heating effects that ultimately lead to cell death within solid tumors.

X-ray vision reveals how polymer solar cells wear out

Scientists have used X-ray vision o observe the degradation of plastic solar cells. Their study suggests an approach for improving the manufacturing process to increase the long-term stability of such organic solar cells.

Cicada wings inspire antireflective surfaces

Researchers have developed antireflective structures capable of suppressing visible light at different angles of incidence - with potential for solar cells.

Filming light and electrons coupled together as they travel under cover

In a breakthrough for future optical-electronic hybrid computers, scientists have developed an ultrafast technique that can track light and electrons as they travel through a nanostructured surface.

Recharging on stable, amorphous silicon

Lithium ion batteries may benefit from porous amorphous silicon anodes.

'Weighing' atoms with electrons

Researchers used an advanced scanning transmission electron microscope to measure isotopes in nanometer-sized areas of a graphene sample. The same energetic electrons that form an image of the graphene structure can also eject one atom at a time due to scattering at a carbon nucleus.

Silkworms eating graphene spin silk twice as strong

Scientists fed the silkworms mulberry leaves coated in a solution that contained graphene in order to create the material. Applications for the material created include wearable electronics, durable fabrics and biodegradable medical implants.

Nanoengineering transforms particles into LEGO like building blocks

Researchers have developed a nanoscale engineering method that transforms tiny particles into 'LEGO- like' modular building blocks.

New 3D design for mobile microbatteries

Researchers succeeded in improving the energy density of a rechargeable battery without increasing its size. This feat was achieved by developing a 3D structure made of microtubes, the first step towards producing a complete microbattery.

New kind of supercapacitor made without carbon

Energy storage device could deliver more power than current versions of this technology.

Nanotechnology providing the tools to clean up oil spills (w/videos)

Technology may be able to succeed where hard-working volunteers have failed in the past. Researchers are using nanotechnology to turn an oil spill into a floating mass of brown jelly that can be scooped up before it can make its way into the food chain.