Nanowire quantum dot solar cells: oxide layer boosts performance

Scientists demonstrate how a further modification using an oxide layer can reduce the nanowire surface area effects for better-performing solar cells.

Ultrafast lasers offer 3-D micropatterning of biocompatible hydrogels

Biomedical engineers are using low-energy, ultrafast laser technology to make high-resolution, 3-D structures in silk protein hydrogels. The laser-based micropatterning represents a new approach to customized engineering of tissue and biomedical implants.

Novel eco high performance energy storage device can be simply printed on paper

A simple approach to synthesize novel environmentally friendly manganese dioxide ink by using glucose.

Nanotechnology technique could make hydrogen fuel cells more efficient

Researchers developed a simple method for producing a palladium-based nanomaterial that can spur the breakdown of formic acid into hydrogen and carbon dioxide. Its efficiency far exceeded that of any other reported heterogeneous catalysts, they say.

Nanoparticles could boost effectiveness and reduce side effects of allergy shots

The researchers designed a new type of nanocarrier based on the biocompatible molecule poly(ethylene glycol), or PEG, that releases its cargo only in targeted immune cells. The nanocarrier degrades when it encounters the acidic part of these cells, simultaneously releasing the allergen and getting rid of the packaging.

Color-coding sensor: Nanostructures for contactless control

Chemists have fabricated a novel nanosheet-based photonic crystal that changes color in response to moisture. The new material could form the basis for humidity-sensitive contactless control of interactive screens on digital devices.

Chemists create switchable gold catalyst

A gold catalyst whose behaviour can be controlled by the addition of acid or metal ion cofactors has been designed.