Chemical engineers at Princeton University developed a method for shooting stable jets of electrically charged liquids from a wide nozzle, producing lines just 100 nanometers wide. This technique offers better resolution than ink-jet printing and far more speed and ease than conventional nanotechnology.
The Advanced Energy Consortium aims to improve oil and gas production by developing intelligent subsurface micro and nanosensors. The technology will help characterize reservoirs in three dimensions, increasing recovery rates of existing and new hydrocarbon resources.
The four-year project aims to make thin-film light absorbing cells for solar panels from sustainable and affordable materials, reducing costs by one millionth of a metre. Researchers will experiment with low-cost materials and nanotechnology to capture increased amounts of energy from the sun's rays.
Researchers at Arizona State University develop a gene detection platform using self-assembled DNA nanostructures, enabling label-free detection of RNA genes in single cells. The technology has potential applications for disease diagnosis and could revolutionize the way gene expression is analyzed.
A team of researchers from Case Western Reserve University, VA and NASA Glenn Research Center has unveiled a method for developing mechanically-reinforced polymer nanocomposites. The approach uses a process to assemble nanoparticles into a three-dimensional network before filling it with a polymer, resulting in compatible materials. Th...
The National Nanotechnology Initiative has released a new strategic plan aimed at achieving growing economic benefits and improved quality of life for US citizens. The plan reflects the consensus of participating agencies and provides guidance for investments and activities in nanotechnology R&D.
Researchers have developed gold nanoparticles with antibody fragments that can identify tumors in living animals. The particles emit a specific signal when illuminated by a laser beam, enabling early detection of cancer. This technology offers a non-invasive and potentially more effective approach to cancer diagnosis.
Stanford researchers have developed a new type of lithium-ion battery using silicon nanowires, which can store up to 10 times more electricity than traditional batteries. This breakthrough could make Li-ion batteries more attractive for electric cars and home energy storage.
Researchers at University of Copenhagen have discovered a new material that can convert up to 30% of solar energy into electricity, twice the current conversion rate. The use of nanotechnology reduces production costs and minimizes energy loss in solar cell transportation.
The International Technology Roadmap for Semiconductors is a top advance, driving progress in microelectronics and materials science. Materials science studies materials used in devices and technologies, including polymers, semiconductors, and metals.
Researchers have developed a method to control the size of nanoparticles, allowing for mass production and diverse applications. This breakthrough has significant implications for fields like medicine, renewable energy, and cosmetics, where nanoparticles can be tailored to perform specific tasks.
Researchers at UCLA used Atomic Force Microscopy to measure the softness of living cancer cells from patient samples, distinguishing them from normal cells. This method may aid in diagnosing cancer and personalizing treatments.
Scientists are uncertain about nanotechnology's health and environmental implications, with concerns about pollution, new health problems, and job losses outweighing benefits. The disconnect between scientific understanding and public perception hinders informed discussion and policy.
Scientists from University College Cork, Dalian University of Technology, and Cardiff University developed a method for synthesizing bamboo-structured carbon nanotubes. The study found that catalytic nanoparticles played a key role in the synthesis process and acted as nucleation seeds for growth.
NASA Goddard's method for producing high-quality carbon nanotubes has been recognized as a winner in the Nano 50 awards. The technology eliminates the need for metal catalysts, resulting in safer and less expensive production methods.
A team of researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia has discovered a clean process for making gold nanoparticles using gold salts, soybeans, and water. The new process eliminates the need for synthetic or man-made chemicals, which can have negative environmental impacts.
Researchers have developed a way to use carbon nanotubes to stop bullets from penetrating material and even rebound their force. This could lead to more effective bulletproof materials that avoid blunt force trauma and critical organ damage.
The US government is facing criticism for its lack of oversight on nanotechnology products, with expert Andrew Maynard warning of potential risks to the environment, health and workers. Maynard recommends establishing a clear risk research strategy and allocating funding for safety research and oversight.
Industry experts suggest nanotechnology can improve fuel extraction from dwindling resources and reduce pollution. Nanomaterials may be used to enhance efficiency, purification and storage of hydrocarbons.
Researchers nationwide team up to develop means of concentrating and controlling optical energy for applications in nanoscience and nanotechnology. The grant aims to attract college students to participate in nanoscience research and explore novel devices such as mid-infrared 'superlens' that can resolve nanoscale features.
Researchers from Harvard University have demonstrated a laser with unprecedented detail, capable of resolving chemical composition of samples like cells. This device combines Quantum Cascade Lasers with optical antenna nanotechnology, enabling new ultrahigh spatial resolution microscopes for chemical imaging.
Researchers at the London Centre for Nanotechnology discovered that even perfect structure in high-dielectric constant materials can lead to 'self-trapping' of charges, which affects device performance. This new understanding could open the way to suppressing undesirable characteristics in these materials.
Engineered nanomaterials can still penetrate deep inside the body, posing a risk to human health. The science suggests that exposures will occur, and understanding toxicity is crucial for resolving concerns about potential harm.
Peter Cummings is being honored for his groundbreaking research in computational nanoscience, which has led to significant advancements in nanotribology, molecular electronics, and hybrid organic-inorganic nanocomposites. His work has the potential to make nanotechnology a practical reality.
UC Irvine has been awarded a $2.18 million grant to develop faster and less costly DNA sequencing methods using nanotechnology. This could lead to more accurate diagnoses, better treatment options, and reduced healthcare costs by making DNA analysis feasible as a routine part of healthcare.
Researchers developed a method to grow nanotube forests on silicon chips, outperforming conventional thermal interface materials. The technique uses dendrimers and metal catalyst particles to create a forest of carbon nanotubes that conform to the heat sink's surface, improving heat conduction and reducing the size of cooling systems.
A national survey found that only 6% of Americans have heard a lot about nanotechnology, with women and older Americans being the least aware. The public is seeking more information on health risks and benefits before purchasing nanotechnology-enhanced products.
By placing quantum dots on a specially designed photonic crystal, researchers enhanced fluorescence intensity by up to 108 times. This breakthrough could lead to high-brightness light-emitting diodes, optical switches and biosensors for detecting DNA and other biomolecules.
Researchers are exploring nanoscale materials to mimic the architecture of grass and photosynthesis for efficient solar energy production. Tiny nanoparticles can be embedded in everyday products like house paint and roof tiles to create sustainable solar cells.
The federal government's new report on prioritizing environmental, health, and safety (EHS) research needs for engineered nanoscale materials lacks important details like budget allocations and implementation timelines. The lack of a coordinated risk research strategy threatens the safe development and use of nanotechnology products.
The University of Oregon has received a $1.6 million grant from the Keck Foundation to study biological interactions with nanomaterials. The researchers will investigate potential biological interactions and develop design rules for nanoparticles with enhanced biological properties.
Researchers have found that the protective coat of superbug Clostridium difficile can self-assemble into regular shapes, opening up new avenues for fighting hospital superbugs and commercial applications in nanotechnology. This discovery could lead to identifying weaknesses in the coats or discovering new target molecules.
A new company, Nanotailor, has licensed NASA Goddard's innovative process to produce high-quality, low-cost single-walled carbon nanotubes. This technology will benefit industries such as medical, construction, manufacturing, and imaging, making affordable nanotechnology available for a broad range of applications.
Researchers at UCR will develop inexpensive badges for monitoring diesel and gasoline exhaust exposure in real-time, using nanotechnology. The project aims to better understand the role of environmental factors in diseases such as diabetes and Alzheimer's disease.
A new analysis has identified cancer-causing compounds, air pollutants, and other substances of concern in the production of carbon nanotubes. Researchers are working with industry partners to develop environmentally sustainable manufacturing methods and filter systems to minimize hazardous by-products.
The NanoSensor StageGate Accelerator will accelerate the development of innovative nanoscale-enabled products supporting the US Army's transition and applications in aerospace, energy, and transportation. Funding will enable commercialization opportunities and create high-tech jobs in New York State.
Researchers create new technique for mass-producing nanoscale structures using atomic force microscope and macroscale milling machines. The method enables consistent production of features on the order of single molecules, paving the way for industrial-scale nanotechnology applications.
Researchers have discovered a hidden magnetic order in a ceramic material that extends over chains of 100 atoms, with potential applications in quantum computing and information processing. The team found that the magnetic excitations can propagate long distances at low temperatures, but can be disrupted by defects or heat.
A new report highlights the need for better toxicity data and private-sector outreach strategies to manage nanowaste. The EPA must conduct outreach to the private sector about how RCRA and CERCLA apply to nanomaterials, while firms and investors must consider emerging liabilities and environmental risks.
The FDA Nanotechnology Task Force has outlined a comprehensive plan to address regulatory challenges posed by nanotechnology, recognizing the need for new safety assessment tools and greater expertise. The report calls for increased public participation and transparency in developing regulatory policies.
The FDA's Nanotechnology Task Force report highlights the challenges of regulating nanotechnology across various product categories. With over 500 manufacturer-identified nanotechnology consumer products being sold annually, the agency must ensure the safety of novel products before they enter the market.
The US Environmental Protection Agency has rejected the need for improved nanotechnology oversight, prompting concerns over public and market safety. The agency's current approach is inadequate to deal with nanotechnology's novel biological and ecological characteristics, according to former officials.
Researchers used magnetic tweezers to study the action of topoisomerase I enzyme in yeast cells, revealing that topotecan's ability to kill cancer cells comes from forcing DNA into positive supercoils. The accumulation of these supercoils triggers cell suicide.
Angela Belcher's research with viruses is developing faster, better, cheaper, and environmentally-friendly electronic devices. Her nanofactories generate little waste, grow at room temperature, and promise to be inexpensive and largely biodegradable.
The US Senate has approved $1 million in funding for the New York Center for National Competitiveness in Nanoscale Characterization, a partnership between CNSE and NIST. The center aims to strengthen the US R&D-manufacturing-commercialization ecosystem in nanotechnology.
Researchers have developed transparent transistors and circuits using nanowires, promising applications in e-paper, flexible color screens, and smart cards. The breakthrough enables fully transparent and flexible displays with high performance levels.
The Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies warns that uncertainty about nanotech benefits and risks will hinder its development. Experts propose a strategic risk research plan to address these concerns.
Researchers have developed multifunctional nanoparticles that target and image cancer cells by exploiting overexpression of folic acid receptors. These dendrimer-based systems can accumulate in diseased cells and retain bright fluorescence, allowing for easy visualization via confocal microscopy.
Researchers used nanotechnology to study exciton mobility on carbon nanotubes, revealing that each excition travels about 90 nanometers and visits some 10,000 carbon atoms during its lifespan. The unique properties of carbon nanotubes made them an ideal system for observing single-molecule reactions.
A University of Alberta research team has created a novel way to control the quantum state of an electron's spin using plasmonics principles in spintronics technology. This new technology, called spinplasmonics, may lead to revolutionary advances in computer electronics and other areas.
A new report by former EPA assistant administrator J. Clarence Davies calls for immediate action to address the challenges of nanotechnology. The report recommends over 25 steps to improve oversight of nanotechnology, including launching a voluntary program to collect risk information and setting up an interagency regulatory coordinati...
AZoJono has introduced a revenue share scheme that pays authors and peer reviewers up to $500 and $100-$500 respectively. This open-access model has led to high-quality Nanotech science being disseminated globally, with over 350,000 monthly visitor sessions.
Researchers use nanotechnology to enhance nerve cell regeneration, bypassing inhibitory environments. Magnetic nanoparticles create mechanical tension, while aligned nanofibers provide a bioactive matrix for growth.
Researchers developed a method to penetrate plant cell walls using nanotechnology, enabling simultaneous delivery of DNA and chemicals. This breakthrough enables precise control over gene expression in plants, opening up new possibilities for agricultural biotechnology.
Researchers at the University of Missouri-Columbia are studying the effects of silver nanoparticles on wastewater treatment systems. The study aims to determine how these particles interact with bacteria used for water purification and assess their potential environmental impact.
Columbia University is expanding its immersion lithography research program with $700,000 in funding from International SEMATECH North. The project aims to develop novel chemistries for double-exposure materials, a critical step towards advancing nanoelectronics manufacturing.
Researchers have successfully imaged the internal workings of antiferromagnets using x-ray holography, revealing their unique 'secret' magnetism and potential applications in quantum computing. The breakthrough sheds light on the stability of domain walls in antiferromagnets.
A new report from the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies explores the potential of nanotechnology to build an environmentally sustainable society. The report highlights several promising applications, including the use of nanoparticles to clean up toxic waste sites and reduce lead emissions in electronics manufacturing.
A new report explores nanotechnology's future, focusing on its potential to address the energy crisis, improve medical treatments, and provide clean water. Experts predict significant benefits in areas like cancer treatment, artificial tissues, and clean energy production.
Researchers are developing nanotechnology to stimulate the body's healing abilities, enabling damaged organs to repair themselves. Early results show paralyzed lab mice regaining mobility after receiving a nanomaterial injection, offering hope for treating intractable diseases.