[Images above] Credit: NIST
NANOMATERIALS
Interfaces key in atomically thin, high-temperature superconductors
A review conducted by an internal collaboration led by the ARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies found atomically-thin, high-temperature superconductors each has a common driving mechanism: interfaces.
New library of atomically thin 2D materials
Researchers from the National University of Singapore created a whole new library of atomically thin 2D materials based on inserting a metal atom between two transition metal dichalcogenides monolayers.
Scientists devise a way to determine viability of predicted 2D materials
An international team of researchers from Russia, Sweden, and South Korea proposed a new way to test the structural stability of predicted 2D materials. The testing revealed a number of materials erroneously proposed earlier.
Lossless conduction at the edges
University of Basel researchers analyzed tiny tungsten ditelluride crystals consisting of between one and 20 layers and detected numerous slowly decaying oscillations. They say the only possible explanation is that a large fraction of current flows along the edges.
ENERGY
Paper-thin gallium oxide transistor handles more than 8,000 volts
University at Buffalo researchers developed a gallium oxide-based transistor that can handle more than 8,000 volts even though it is about as thin as a sheet of paper. A key innovation in the new transistor involves passivation, which is a chemical process that involves coating the device to reduce the chemical reactivity of its surface.
Researchers develop viable sodium-ion battery
Washington State University and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory researchers created a sodium-ion battery out of a layered metal oxide cathode and liquid electrolyte that holds as much energy and works as well as some commercial lithium-ion batteries.
BIOMATERIALS
Graphene quantum dots could treat autoimmune disorders
Seoul National University researchers examined the efficiency of graphene quantum dots as an anti-inflammatory therapy for colitis in mice. They found the dots reduced intestinal inflammation and prevented tissue damage.
ENVIRONMENT
Bricks made from plastic, organic waste
Flinders University researchers developed a new kind of rubber polymer from sulfur and canola oil that can be compressed and heated with fillers of recycled PVC, waste plant fibers, or sand to create “green” construction materials.
New NiMH batteries perform better when made from recycled old NiMH batteries
Stockholm University researchers found a new method for recycling old batteries that allows the upcycled material to be used directly in new battery production. They say the material gains better properties when used in new batteries after passing a simplified recycling process.
MANUFACTURING
A bio-inspired addition to concrete stops the damage caused by freezing and thawing
University of Colorado Boulder researchers introduced polymer molecules with antifreezing abilities into concrete, and the molecules effectively reduced the size of ice crystals by 90%. The new concrete mix also withstood 300 freeze-thaw cycles and maintained its strength.
OTHER STORIES
Understanding ceramic ‘mortar’ of materials may reveal ways to improve them
Researchers at University of Wisconsin–Madison showed silicon carbide is susceptible to radiation-induced segregation, i.e., carbon atoms collect at grain boundaries when silicon carbide is exposed to radiation. They believe the phenomenon also is likely to occur in other polycrystalline ceramics.
Electrical fields can throw a curveball
Massachusetts Institute of Technology researchers discovered a new phenomenon, induced by an electric field, that propels particles in a controlled direction without any contact. They looked at metal particles suspended in a lower-conducting electrolyte, but they expect the phenomenon may work for any two materials with contrast in dielectric constant.
Multifunctional e-glasses monitor health, protect eyes, control video games
Researchers developed smart electronic glasses (e-glasses) that not only monitor a person’s brain waves and body movements, but also can function as sunglasses and allow users to control a video game with eye motions.
Avalanche photodiode breaks performance record for LiDAR receivers
University of Virginia and University of Texas at Austin researchers developed an avalanche photodiode that achieved record performance and has the potential to transform next generation night-vision imaging and LiDAR receivers.
Scientists develop the most heat-resistant material ever created
Scientists from the National University of Science and Technology MISiS developed a ceramic material with the highest melting point among currently known compounds. Due to the unique combination of physical, mechanical, and thermal properties, the material is promising for use in the most heat-loaded components of aircraft.