Research finds new molecular structures in boron-based nanoclusters

Researchers have shown that nanoclusters made from boron and lanthanide elements form highly stable and symmetric structures with interesting magnetic properties.

How gold nanoparticles could improve solar energy storage

Study opens door to broader use of sunlight and advanced materials to combat climate change.

Controlling the manufacture of stable aerogels

Researchers control the self-assembly of molecules to form an ultralight, porous gel.

Quantum dot white LEDs achieve record efficiency

Novel approach to white LEDs could lead to more energy-efficient lighting.

Electrical contact to molecules in semiconductor structures established for the first time

A new method allows electrical contact to be established with simple molecules on a conventional silicon chip. The technique promises to bring advances in sensor technology and medicine.

Brain function partly replicated by nanotechnology materials

Molecular/carbon nanotube network devices enable artificial spiking neurons that mimic nerve impulse generation.

Scientists create nano-size packets of genetic code aimed at brain cancer 'seed' cells

In a proof-of-concept study, scientists say they have successfully delivered nano-size packets of genetic code called microRNAs to treat human brain tumors implanted in mice. The contents of the super-small containers were designed to target cancer stem cells, a kind of cellular 'seed' that produces countless progeny and is a relentless barrier to ridding the brain of malignant cells.

Smallest-ever magnetic vortexes mark step toward new digital memory

By twisting magnetism into record-small spirals, physicists are speeding efforts to turn the digital equivalent of memory lane into a memory racetrack that could save energy and space in next-generation electronics.

The future of electronics is chemical

New research reveals how we can make electronic devices 10 times smaller, and use molecules to build electronic circuits instead.

Hot nanoparticles produce giant and explosive bubbles

When gold nano particles in water are illuminated by a laser, they get very hot: well above the boiling point of water. The formation of vapour bubbles caused by this, is well-known. New experiments, however, using a very high speed camera, now show that before this, a bubble is formed that is much larger and, subsequently, explodes violently.

Magnetic vortices: Two independent magnetic skyrmion phases discovered in a single material

For the first time, a team of researchers have discovered two different phases of magnetic skyrmions in a single material.