Super-resolution at all scales with active thermal detection

Researchers have found that the temperature increase caused by the probe beam could be utilized to generate a signal per se for detecting objects. Notably, this so-called 'active thermal detection' enables super-resolution imaging at all scales, compared to conventional techniques whose application are confined to microcopy only.

Researchers realize a quantum heat engine in the lab

A new experimental proof-of-concept quantum Otto cycle, using nuclear spins, has reached an efficiency close to its thermodynamic limit at maximum power.

Why are alloy metal nanoparticles better than monometallic ones for carbon nanotubes growth?

Revealing a long-term mystery of why certain nanoparticles are more efficient in incorporating carbon atoms and achieving a faster carbon nanotube growth.

Researchers directly measure 'Cheerios effect' forces for the first time

In a finding that could be useful in designing small aquatic robots, researchers have measured the forces that cause small objects to cluster together on the surface of a liquid -- a phenomenon known as the 'Cheerios effect'.

Researchers apply temperature gradients to grow and move liquid crystals

Researchers have discovered that applying a small difference in temperature to a watered-down mixture of a compound called zirconium phosphate initiates its liquid crystallization. As zirconium phosphate particles move toward warmer temperatures, they start aligning themselves with each other and eventually turn into pure liquid crystals.

Playing the angles with dramatic effect

Researchers develop new materials theory relevant to ultrafast electronics, batteries and more.

New quantum material with intrinsically magnetic and topological properties

An international consortium of chemists and physicists has discovered a new type of quantum material with intrinsic magnetic and topological properties. Since they manifest without doping or strong external magnetic fields, this material may lead the way to new applications in spintronics, two-dimensional magnetism and quantum transport.