How to make a lab-on-a-chip clear and biocompatibel with nanocoatings

Researchers streamline the design of microfluidic devices to be see-through to observe their inner workings.

Enhancement of piezoelectric properties in organic polymers all in the molecules

The inability to alter intrinsic piezoelectric behavior in organic polymers hampers their application in flexible, wearable and biocompatible devices, but now a molecular approach can improve those piezoelectric properties.

Nanoparticles to treat snakebites

Scientists describe a new approach to treating snake bites, using nanoparticles to bind to venom toxins and prevent the spread of venom through the body.

Plasmonic effect that allows nanocatalyst to work at lower energy

Nanoscientists have demonstrated a new catalyst that can convert ammonia into hydrogen fuel at ambient pressure using only light energy, mainly due to a plasmonic effect that makes the catalyst more efficient.

Molecular multitools

Researchers have developed surfaces that can easily be patterned with different functionalities using visible light.

Making a movie of nanocrystals' structural evolution

Combined ultrafast snapshots suggest that the crystal symmetry of copper sulfide nanocrystals changes due to interactions between electrons and atoms vibrating in the crystal lattice - an understanding of which could help scientists optimize the functionality of superconductors, magnetic materials, and other strongly correlated systems.

Extracting energy from a 60 nanometers thin layer

Scientists have demonstrated the viability of the direct piezoelectric effect in a thin film bismuth ferrite material for the first time.

Nanostructured coatings deliver killing touch for bacteria

Tiny zinc oxide-based spikes that mimic natural antibacterial coatings puncture and damage microbial cell walls via oxidation.

Measuring microviscosity inside cells

A rotating fluorescent molecule that stays brighter in more viscous environments could shed light on the inner workings of the cellular environment.

Toughening up polymers with nanoparticles

Adding nanoparticles to a polymer matrix enhances the thermo-mechanical properties of the materials.