Researchers have developed a new material that could potentially improve the efficiency of computer processing and memory. The new material is in a class of materials called “topological insulators,” and possess unique spin-electronic transport and magnetic properties.
The National Institute of Standards and Technology and the nonprofit World Technology Evaluation Center advocate that nanoparticle researchers, manufacturers, and administrators “connect the dots” by considering their shared challenges broadly and tackling them collectively rather than individually.
A study has revealed an emergent electronic behavior on the surface of bismuth crystals that could lead to insights on the growing area of technology known as “valleytronics.” These valleys could be used to store information, greatly enhancing what is capable with modern electronic devices.
Inspired by the weird behavior of some liquids that solidify on impact, researchers have developed a practical and inexpensive way to help prevent lithium-ion batteries from bursting into flame.
Jülich scientists have introduced a new concept that allows currents up to ten times greater during charging and discharging than previously described. The improvement was achieved by a choice of materials with a focus on consistently good compatibility made from phosphate compounds.
Wind energy pricing remains attractive, according to an annual report released by the U.S. Department of Energy and prepared by Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. Prices offered by newly built wind projects in the U.S. are being driven lower by technology advancements and cost reductions.
A new biosensor allows researchers to track oxygen levels in real time in “organ-on-a-chip” systems, ensuring such systems more closely mimic the function of real organs—essential if organs-on-a-chip hope to achieve potential in applications such as drug and toxicity testing.
Scientists have successfully developed the world’s first ultrathin artificial retina that could improve on existing implantable visualization technology for the blind. The flexible device, based on 2-D materials, could someday restore sight to millions of people with retinal diseases.
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a construction method to fabricate a 3-D printed lightweight concrete slab that can be used in ceilings. The Smart Slab ceiling consists of eleven concrete segments and connects the lower floor with the two-story timber volume above.
Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have achieved a ground-breaking advancement in materials research by successfully developing the world’s first-ever 4-D printing for ceramics. This could turn a new page in the structural application of ceramics.
Engineers at the University of New Mexico report the use of a cheap, simple, water-repelling coating to prevent thermal shock in ceramics. The findings can be used to improve nuclear power plant safety by increasing the thermal-shock tolerance of nuclear components.
The HPC4Mfg Program will present a webinar, “National Laboratories Partner with U.S. Manufacturers to Increase Innovation and Energy Efficiency” on August 30, 8 a.m. PDT. The opportunity helps the steel and aluminum industries become more competitive.
Researchers at Virginia Tech and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory report a breakthrough in producing micro-architectured 3-D graphene aerogel structures with higher resolution and complexity than anything created before with other 3-D printing methods.
Engineers and medical researchers at the University of Minnesota have teamed up to create a groundbreaking 3-D-printed device that could someday help patients with long-term spinal cord injuries regain some function.
