[Image above] Credit: ACerS
NANOMATERIALS
How surface electrons could help nanofabrication
Nagoya University researchers investigated the depth resolution of secondary electron imaging using MoS2 bilayers and determined that it can selectively reveal the atomic arrangement of a surface monolayer, even when the monolayer is situated on other materials.
Electrons in pentalayer graphene exhibit fractional charge without magnetic field
Massachusetts Institute of Technology physicists found that electrons appear to exhibit “fractional charge” in pentalayer graphene even in the absence of a magnetic field. Scientists have previously shown that electrons can split into fractions under a very strong magnetic field, in what is known as the fractional quantum Hall effect.
ENERGY
Enhancing solid-state lithium batteries with nanoceramic electrolytes
Researchers examined the development of lithium indium chloride electrolytes designed to improve the performance of solid-state lithium batteries. They systematically synthesized and evaluated the performance of these nanoceramic electrolytes using a wet chemistry method.
Cracking the code of performance degradation in solid oxide cells at the atomic level
Researchers identified the degradation mechanism occurring between the air electrode and yttria stabilized zirconia electrolyte in solid oxide cells through transmission electron microscopy diffraction analysis and theoretical calculations. This research achievement marks the first study to elucidate the degradation mechanism at the nanoscale.
MANUFACTURING
Old clothes and carpet could make concrete stronger
RMIT University researchers have been trialing ways to add fibers from old clothes and carpets into concrete mixes. Through this addition, they have created concrete that has up to 30% fewer initial cracks, as well as being more durable. They have also got it to work with almost completely nonrecyclable fabric used to make firefighting and military uniforms.
The search to replace a critical semiconductor
Researchers at The Pennsylvania State University are leading a $1 million U.S. Department of Energy grant to investigate the possibility of replacing gallium nitride-based devices with boron nitride. Co-principal investigators include The Ohio State University, the University of Iowa, and quantum technology startup QuantCAD.
OTHER STORIES
Sensitive ceramics for soft robotics
Researchers at Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology are developing soft sensor materials using ceramic particles embedded in stretchable plastics.
Discovery creates new possibilities for water-responsive materials
City College of New York researchers determined how water interacts with biomaterials at the molecular level to yield high energy density water responsiveness.
