A performance leap for graphene modulators in next generation datacom and telecom

An international team of researchers reports the development of a graphene-based optical modulator that proves outstanding performances in modulation efficiency, stability and high speed.

Nanotechnologies reduce friction and improve durability of materials

Scientists have suggested using innovative thin films to considerably reduce friction and thus increase the durability of surfaces in mechanisms. This discovery can be important for many fields, from medicine to space technologies.

Move over heavy goggles, here come the ultra-high refractive index lenses

A research team has developed a transparent amorphous silicon that transmits visible light - which permits us to distinguish the colors of objects - enabling the development of paper-thin lenses usable in head-mounted displays that show virtual and augmented reality images in real time.

Tapping into waste heat for electricity by nanostructuring thermoelectric materials

Scientists develop a relatively simple synthesis strategy to produce high-performance tin telluride nanosheets, a promising thermoelectric material.

Graphene could one day be used to make quick, reliable tests for viruses like SARS-CoV-2

Scientists looked into the latest research to find the most exciting potential applications of graphene in point-of-care tests. This includes diagnostic tests for SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, but also detecting other viruses, bacteria and even cancerous tumours.

Graphene 'nano-origami' creates tiniest microchips yet

By creating kinks in the structure of graphene, researchers have made the nanomaterial behave like a transistor, and have shown that when a strip of graphene is crinkled in this way, it can behave like a microchip, which is around 100 times smaller than conventional microchips.

Nanoengineered microcapsules deliver nerve growth factor to guide neuronal development

Researchers have demonstrated that nanoengineered biodegradable microcapsules can guide the development of hippocampal neurons in an in vitro experiment. The microcapsules deliver nerve growth factor, a peptide necessary for neuron growth.

Nanocoating can protect satellites from ultraviolet radiation and atomic oxygen in low-Earth orbit

Researchers detail how they developed a nano-barrier and custom-built deposition system that bonds to the surface of polymer or composite materials, protecting them from erosion in low-Earth orbit.