Tuesday, March 10, 2015

Nitrogenated 2D crystals could rival graphene

Researchers in South Korea have, for the first time, developed a simple technique to produce a two-dimensional nitrogen-containing crystal that has the capacity to be a potential rival to graphene and silicon as semi-conductor materials.

Nanotechnology for composites: Design, simulation, and applications

A new book reviews the recent progress in application of engineered nanopolymer and nanoparticles and their composites. The advantages and disadvantages of different methods are discussed.


Nanoparticles could make big impact for patients in need of cornea transplant

Animal study shows that a nanoparticle applied at the time of surgery slowly releases needed medicine to reduce risk of rejection after eye surgery.

Optical microfibres light the way for brain-like computing

Computers that function like the human brain could soon become a reality thanks to new research using optical fibres made of speciality glass.


Scientists have found a way to make the strongest spider silk fibers

Researchers have produced the strongest spider silk fiber so far. Given the good properties of this new material, this silk can be used for regenerative medicine.


Hydrocarbon photocatalysts get in shape and go for gold

A combination of semiconductor catalysts, optimum catalyst shape, gold-copper co-catalyst alloy nanoparticles and hydrous hydrazine reducing agent enables an increase of hydrocarbon generation from CO2 by a factor of ten.


Monday, March 9, 2015

Understanding nanotechnology - why a material's behavior changes as it gets smaller

To fully understand how nanomaterials behave, one must also understand the atomic-scale deformation mechanisms that determine their structure and, therefore, their strength and function.