Goldilocks and the three quantum dots: This one's just right for peak solar panel performance

Maximising the efficiency of renewable energy technology is dependent on creating nanoparticles with ideal dimensions and density, new simulations have shown. Scientists have developed a process for calculating the perfect size and density of quantum dots needed to achieve record efficiency in solar panels.

Seeking answers in ferroelectric patterning

Why do some ferroelectric materials display bubble-shaped patterning, while others display complex, labyrinthine patterns? A new study finds the answer to the changing patterns in ferroelectric films lies in non-equilibrium dynamics, with topological defects driving subsequent evolution.

Atomic-scale apertures represent a novel regime in physics and materials science

Two new studies demonstrate how to fabricate atomically-thin materials with atom-sized pores, with possible applications ranging from water purification to energy harvesting.

Shifting gears toward chemical machines

Engineers have utilized a catalytic reaction that causes a two-dimensional, chemically-coated sheet to spontaneously 'morph' into a three-dimensional gear that performs sustained work.

Innovative coating makes medical devices safer

The new coating can prevent liquids like water and blood from sticking onto surfaces. The researchers also found that the liquid-repellant coating can kill bacteria and halt blood clot formation on an object's surface.

A dash of salt could revolutionize drug delivery and bio-analysis

A spoonful of sugar may make the medicine go down, but a new study suggests a dash of salt is key to progressing important medical areas such as drug delivery and biological sample analysis.

Tuning nanomaterials at the atomic scale could transform clean energy technology

Using an innovative chemical strategy, a team of researchers have produced a new form of catalyst using the elements cobalt and titanium. The advantage of these elements is that they are much more abundant in nature than other commonly used catalytic materials containing precious metals such as iridium or ruthenium.