Using light to probe acoustic tuning in gold nanodisks

In a study that could open doors for new applications of photonics from molecular sensing to wireless communications, scientists have discovered a new method to tune the light-induced vibrations of nanoparticles through slight alterations to the surface to which the particles are attached.

Putting a new spin on plasmonics

Researchers have discovered a novel way of combining plasmonic and magneto-optical effects. They experimentally demonstrated that patterning of magnetic materials into arrays of nanoscale dots can lead to a very strong and highly controllable modification of the polarization of light when the beam reflects from the array.

Cotton fibres instead of carbon nanotubes

Plant-based cellulose nanofibres do not pose a short-term health risk, especially short fibres, shows a new study.

A 'super-cool' way to deliver drugs

Some substances, when they undergo a process called rapid-freezing or supercooling, remain in liquid form - even at below-freezing temperatures. A new study is the first to break down the rules governing the complex process of crystallization through rapid-cooling. Its findings may revolutionize the delivery of drugs in the human body, providing a way to 'freeze' the drugs at an optimal time and location in the body.

Tiny silicone spheres come out of the mist

Technology in common household humidifiers could enable the next wave of high-tech medical imaging and targeted medicine, thanks to a new method for making tiny silicone microspheres.

Inkjet printing process for Kesterite solar cells

Researchers developed an inkjet printing technology to produce kesterite thin film absorbers (CZTSSe). Based on the inkjet-printed absorbers, solar cells with total area conversion efficiency of up to 6.4 % have been achieved.

A better way to build DNA scaffolds (w/video)

Researchers devise new technique to produce long, custom-designed DNA strands.