'Nanocage' tool untangles (molecular) spaghetti

A team of scientists have invented a new tool that can catch and straighten out molecule-sized tangles of polymers - whether made of protein or plastic. This tool, that works a bit like pulling a wad of thread through a needle hole, opens a new way to create custom materials that have never been made before.

Microscopy technique reveals nanoscale detail of coatings as they dry

Scientists studying in situ drying behavior of thin film coatings visualize interactions that could impact drug delivery technology.

Researchers print nanocoating on next-generation solar cells, allowing them to work in tandem with silicon solar cells to boost efficiencies

Researchers have developed a method to 'print' a protective coating of copper oxide over the perovskite device. They have shown that only a 3-nanometre thick coating is sufficient to prevent any damage to the perovskite after depositing the transparent top electrode.

Liquid metal synthesis for better piezoelectrics: Atomically-thin tin-monosulfide

Potential materials for future wearable electronics and other motion-powered, energy-harvesting devices.

The spin state story: Observation of the quantum spin liquid state in novel material

New insight into the spin behavior in an exotic state of matter puts us closer to next-generation spintronic devices.

A new nanoconjugate blocks acute myeloid leukemia tumor cells without harming healthy ones

The nanoparticle targets only leukemic cells and therefore would reduce the severe adverse effects of current treatments. The receptor for this nanoparticle is expressed in 20 types of cancer and associated with a poor prognosis, so this drug could open a new therapeutic pathway for other tumors.

'Magnetic nano knife' inhibits tumor growth under rotating magnetic field

Researchers report their success of synthesizing urchin-like nickel nanoparticles by magneto-solvothermal method. Rotated by a magnetic field, the nanoparticles' mechanical force can destroy tumor cells and achieve the same effect as a scalpel.