Game changer for organic solar cells

Researchers develop a simple processing technique that could cut the cost of organic photovoltaics and wearable electronics.

Eureka moment leads to new method of studying environmental toxins (w/video)

A technique for probing the surface of particles revealed how toxins move from the soil to groundwater.

3-D solutions to energy savings in silicon power transistors

Researchers demonstrate operation energy-savings in a low price silicon power transistor structure by scaling down in all three dimensions.

'Spooky' sightings in crystal point to extremely rare quantum spin liquid

Strong signs of quantum spin liquid observed in YbMgGaO4 crystals by neutron scattering off ytterbium electrons.

Novel microsupercapacitor that exploits three-dimensional porous electrodes

Researchers have developed a microsupercapacitor that exploits three-dimensional porous electrodes. These micropower units are expected to enable a new generation of 'smart' products, such as self-powered sensors for wearables, security, structural health monitoring and internet-of-things applications.

Nanometers thin protective layer brings quite a bit more stability to perovskite solar cell

The addition of a few nanometers of a thin layer of aluminum oxide protects a perovskite solar cell against humidity - still a major stumbling block to the commercial application of this new type of solar cell.

Why friction properties of graphene depend on the number of layers

Researchers found that in contact with monolayer graphene, friction is higher than in case of multi-layered graphene or graphite. Moreover, friction force increases for continued sliding.

X-ray spectroscopy reveals details of capacity fading in Li-ion batteries

Using advanced X-ray spectroscopy of battery electrodes under operating conditions has provided new insight in the process responsible for capacity fading of Li-ion batteries.

Lining up nanocomposite films for new high-density memory devices

Unique magnetic coupling found in vertically aligned nanocomposite films shrink devices and let them withstand higher temperatures.

DNA + nanoparticles = self-assembled 'diamond'

Using DNA linkers to form cages for nanoparticles redefines the rules for assembling nanoparticles.

Giving friction the slip with diamond-like carbon films

Self-healing diamond-like carbon coating could revolutionize lubrication.

How to 3D-print on the nanoscale

Electron beam controllably builds micro- and nanoscale structures, enabling new three-dimensional materials.