Brilliant glow of paint-on semiconductors comes from ornate quantum physics

Next-generation semiconducting materials are on the horizon, and in a new study, researchers have uncovered eccentric physics behind their potential to transform lighting technology and photovoltaics yet again.

Pore size influences nature of complex nanostructures

In new research that could help inform development of new materials, chemists have found that the empty space ('pores') present in two-dimensional molecular building blocks fundamentally changes the strength of these van der Waals forces, and can potentially alter the assembly of sophisticated nanostructures.

Bioinspired nanoscale drug delivery method

Researchers have developed a novel way to deliver drugs and therapies into cells at the nanoscale without causing toxic effects that have stymied other such efforts.

Discovery of single atom structure leads to more efficient catalyst

Scientists have identified the structure of iridium single-atom catalysts for carbon monoxide oxidation. The identification of the structure and reaction mechanism will help in the design of better and more cost-efficient catalysts.

Researchers catalog defects that give 2-D materials amazing properties

Theoretical analysis distinguishes observed 'holes' from the huge list of hypothetically possible ones.

DNA origami: A precise measuring tool for optimal antibody effectiveness

Using DNA origami - DNA-based design of precise nanostructures - scientists have been able to demonstrate the most accurate distance between densely packed antigens in order to get the strongest bond to antibodies in the immune system.

Scientists coax proteins to form synthetic structures with method that mimics nature

Biologists have invented a way to build synthetic structures from proteins, and just as in nature, the method is simple and could be used for a variety of purposes.

New immune system understanding may lead to safer nanomedicines

A new study describes an important step in the activation of the immune system against nanoparticles. The finding may allow researchers and eventually doctors to cloak nanoparticles against the immune system, allowing these particles to go about their therapeutic business.

Scientists develop promising new type of polymers

S-PPV polymers are suitable for use in a wide range of applications, from solar cells through to medicine but, until recently, they were almost impossible to produce.

Next generation photonic memory devices are light-written, ultrafast and energy efficient

have developed a hybrid technology, which shows the advantages of both light and magnetic hard drives.

5000 times faster than a computer - interatomic light rectifier generates directed electric currents

Researchers have now generated directed currents at terahertz (THz) frequencies, much higher than the clock rates of current electronics. They show that electronic charge transfer between neighboring atoms in the crystal lattice represents the underlying mechanism.