Electronics

Switchable dielectrics could help microwave systems avoid interference

By Lisa McDonald / November 9, 2018

Arizona State University researchers have created dielectrics that switch from “on” to “off” states in small magnetic fields. This finding could allow for more precise coordination of microwave communication systems.

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Video: Accessorize your smartphone with a robotic finger

By Faye Oney / October 10, 2018

Have you ever considered adding an electronic finger to your mobile device? Watch today’s video to learn more about MobiLimb, a robotic finger that can perform a variety of functions when attached to your device.

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Spray-on antenna is game-changer for future of Internet of Things

By Faye Oney / October 5, 2018

Researchers have created antennas out of MXene materials that can be sprayed on to a flexible surface. The spray-on antennas can be used in the next generation of the Internet of Things, especially wearables.

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Range of topics inspire lively discussions, enthusiasm at MCARE 2018

By Jonathon Foreman / August 31, 2018

Nearly two hundred people from 25 countries converged in Vancouver, BC, Canada, August 20–23, for Materials Challenges in Alternative and Renewable Energy (MCARE 2018). The conference inspired a variety of discussions and a lot of enthusiasm.

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Video: Solar takes over after lemons fail to power electric race car battery

By Faye Oney / August 22, 2018

Lemons are good for making low-voltage batteries, but not so much when powering a car. Mark Rober attempts to create a giant lemon battery before realizing he should have used another energy source.

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Ceramic electrolyte in lithium batteries offers twice the performance, prevents dendrite formation

By Faye Oney / August 17, 2018

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a faster-charging solid-state lithium battery. The key is a ceramic electrolyte that stabilizes the surface and does not degrade over time.

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JACerS Awards Symposium at MS&T18 features presentations of best ceramic science papers

By Jonathon Foreman / August 7, 2018

JACerS Awards Symposium will take place on October 17, 2018, at MS&T18 in Columbus, Ohio. The symposium features 13 presentations from invited authors of the best papers published in JACerS in the past two years.

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Video: We could someday fly our own aircraft

By Faye Oney / July 18, 2018

Did you ever wish you could fly your own small plane without getting your pilot’s license? Watch today’s video to see how close the future really is!

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Self-heating, fast-charging batteries could speed up EV adoption

By Faye Oney / July 17, 2018

Researchers at Penn State University have developed a self-heating and self-charging lithium-ion battery that can charge itself in 15 minutes at temperatures as low as -45 degrees F. Their technology could speed up adoption of electric vehicles.

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Video: Watch these 3-D printed magnetic devices change shape and perform tricks

By Faye Oney / July 11, 2018

Researchers at MIT have fabricated small flexible magnetic structures using a 3-D printer and ink fused with magnetic particles. The structures could be used to remotely control biomedical devices for drug delivery or for pumping blood, among other functions.

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