Researchers probe chemistry, topography and mechanics with one instrument

The probe of an atomic force microscope (AFM) scans a surface to reveal details at a resolution 1,000 times greater than that of an optical microscope. That makes AFM the premier tool for analyzing physical features, but it cannot tell scientists anything about chemistry. For that they turn to the mass spectrometer. Now, scientists have combined these cornerstone capabilities into one instrument that can probe a sample in three dimensions and overlay information about the topography of its surface, the atomic-scale mechanical behavior near the surface, and the chemistry at and under the surface.

Engineering a better solar cell: Research pinpoints defects in popular perovskites

A new study demonstrates that perovskite materials, generally believed to be uniform in composition, actually contain flaws that can be engineered to improve solar devices even further.

Quantum-mechanical monopoles discovered

Researchers have observed a point-like monopole in a quantum field itself for the first time. This discovery connects to important characteristics of the elusive monopole magnet.

For batteries, one material does it all

Engineers have created a battery that is made entirely out of one material, which can both move electricity and store it.

Why, and how, computational research matters is changing materials science

To stay competitive, businesses and governments are constantly looking for materials that will open the door to new technologies or sources of energy. Materials that will make their products faster, lighter, stronger or more efficient. Whoever develops those materials first will have a significant edge over the competition.

No Hogwarts invitation required: Invisibility cloaks move into the real-life classroom

A new solid-state device can demonstrate the physical principles of invisibility cloaks without special equipment or magic spells.

Photonic thermometers: Out of the lab, into a bucket of water

A new class of tiny chip-based thermometers has the potential to revolutionize the way temperature is gauged.