Category: Advanced Materials
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First quantum-mechanical model of quasicrystals reveals why they exist
Quasicrystals couldn’t be simulated with quantum mechanics because of their irregular atomic patterns. A new method overcomes this challenge.
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A rule-breaking, colorful silicone that could conduct electricity
Previously only thought to be insulating, a shift in the angle between silicon and oxygen atoms creates a highway for an electrical charge.
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Maneuverable underwater vehicles inspired by golf balls
A spherical prototype with nimble dimples can change its surface from smooth to dimpled, cutting through drag and generating lift.
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Synchrotron in a closet: Bringing powerful 3D X-ray microscopy to smaller labs
A new design makes a technique for studying metals, ceramics and rocks available in a standard laboratory, expanding access for students, academic researchers and industry
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Twisted Edison: bright, elliptically polarized incandescent light
Filaments curling at the micro- and nanoscale produce light waves that twirl as they travel.
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Toward quantum for the real world: photonic team in running for center-level funding
A team led by the University of Michigan aims to bring the extraordinary accuracy of quantum laboratory measurements to real-world devices.
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Faster organic phosphorescence for better display tech
Layering an organic material on top of 2D materials achieves stable, fast phosphorescent light emission without using expensive and hazardous heavy metals.
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Battery-like computer memory keeps working above 1000°F
The material transports oxygen ions rather than electrons, creating heat-resistant voltages for both digital memory and in-memory computing.
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Burned rice hulls could help batteries store more charge
New research finds hard carbon in rice hull ash, providing a cheap, domestic source of the material that can replace graphite in lithium-ion or sodium-ion battery anodes.
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Cancer management: Stent sensor can warn of blockages in the bile duct
New batteryless and wireless sensor tested in pigs.
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$15M for game theory with AI agents, quantum semiconductors for microelectronics and photonics
The DoD funds efforts to incorporate AI agents into game theory and develop microelectronics that can withstand a hot day on Venus or carry quantum information.
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This screen stores and displays encrypted images without electronics
It uses magnetic fields to display images at the same resolution as a squid’s color-changing skin.