Researchers found that the last atom in a line of single-atom contacts behaves differently than expected, altering the defining properties of ferromagnetic metals. The Kondo effect is observed in these tiny contacts, contradicting conventional wisdom about metal behavior at the nanoscale.
Researchers at the University of Toronto have created a new green catalyst using iron that could replace expensive and toxic platinum metals in industrial chemical processes. This breakthrough has the potential to significantly reduce costs associated with drug production by avoiding costly purification techniques.
Professor Geoffrey Gadd's research explores how microbes interact with metals and minerals, degrading ammunition and transforming pollutants. His work has significant implications for environmental biotechnology and nuclear decommissioning.
A new environmentally friendly coating has been developed using spores from a bacterium to prevent microbial corrosion of metals in seawater. The coating was found to be substantially more effective than existing treatments and could be heat cured at temperatures up to 90°C.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed a method for coating metal surfaces with nanoparticles, rendering them resistant to corrosion and eliminating toxic chromium. The new coating is produced through a simple two-step process and can be applied to various metals, offering improved performance and efficiency.
Researchers at University at Buffalo found that single-walled carbon nanotubes do not experience electromigration and thermomigration like metals, producing significantly less heat. This property makes carbon nanotubes ideal for future electronic devices, including electric cars and sophisticated naval systems.
Researchers have discovered how Shewanella bacteria 'breathe' toxic metals, converting them into non-toxic forms. This process could potentially clean up contaminated nuclear waste sites by utilizing the bacteria's ability to extract energy from metal oxides.
Scientists discover that cerium and aluminum can form a previously impossible alloy under extreme pressure, creating new material properties. The delocalized electrons cause the atoms to collapse in volume, allowing them to nestle together and form an alloy.
Scientists from Jülich and Göttingen have successfully visualized bulk Fermi surfaces using scanning tunnelling microscopes. This breakthrough enables direct insight into the properties of metals.
Researchers create a process that can produce nano-devices with features as small as 13 nanometers, outperforming silicon and steel. The use of bulk metallic glasses allows for molding fine details without grain size limitations.
A team of researchers has discovered a new enzyme in Shewanella that works together to oxidize lactate, a food and energy source for many microbes. The discovery suggests that dozens of bacteria use this multi-protein enzyme instead of the single-protein version, which could help clean up toxic pollutants.
Researchers developed intelligent materials that stimulate cell growth and development, eliminating pharmaceutical side-effects. The technology has the potential to revolutionize orthopedic, dental, and cardiovascular prostheses.
A Dutch researcher has developed a new metal alloy that can absorb hydrogen, making it possible to store the gas in lighter tanks. This breakthrough could make hydrogen a cleaner alternative to battery-powered vehicles.
A meta-analysis found that many wines contain high levels of metal ions, exceeding the safe threshold and posing potential health risks. The study suggests that these metals may contribute to neurological problems, oxidative damage, and chronic inflammatory diseases.
Scientists at Newcastle University have discovered a mechanism that ensures the correct metal binds to proteins, which has potential applications in synthetic biology and treating diseases such as Alzheimer's. The research found that protein folding location determines metal binding, revealing new insights into protein-metal interactions.
Svilen Bobev, a University of Delaware assistant professor, has been awarded the American Crystallographic Association's Early Career Award for his outstanding achievement in crystallographic research. The award recognizes his potential to make significant contributions to the field.
A study found that one-fifth of Ayurvedic medicines purchased online exceed acceptable standards for lead, mercury, and arsenic. Rasa shastra medicines were more likely to contain detectable metals, posing a risk to users.
Researchers at Ohio State University have created a catalyst that converts ethanol into hydrogen with a 90% yield, using inexpensive ingredients. The new catalyst is less expensive than others being developed worldwide, making it more practical for widespread use in hydrogen-powered cars.
Researchers found two independent ways to modify metal work function using self-assembled monolayers, improving device characteristics. The study also showed that different metals have virtually identical work functions when covered with the same type of organic molecules.
Researchers at Cornell University have developed a new method to self-assemble metals into complex nanostructures. This allows for the creation of more efficient catalysts for fuel cells and industrial processes. Additionally, it enables the development of microstructured surfaces to enhance conductor performance.
Researchers at Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research identify enzyme that requires acids and dissolved metals to function, repairing genetic damage under extreme conditions. This discovery opens up new possibilities for biotechnological applications and potential treatments for diseases characterized by over-acidification.
A 20-year study by NOAA reveals a positive trend in reducing contaminant levels in U.S. coastal waters, despite ongoing concerns about metals and industrial chemicals. The report highlights decreasing trends for pesticides like DDT and industrial chemicals PCBs, but notes continued issues with oil-related compounds and flame retardants.
A recent study by NOAA scientists shows that certain metals can repel sharks from fishing gear, potentially reducing bycatch and saving millions of animals. The study used a palladium neodymium alloy to alter the swimming patterns of juvenile sandbar sharks, temporarily deterring feeding in groups.
A new study by the University of New South Wales reveals that contaminated seaweeds in Sydney Harbour are killing up to 75% of small crustacean offspring. The harbour's seaweeds have been found to contain high levels of copper, lead and zinc, posing a threat to marine life.
Research finds extreme bacteria dominating areas with high levels of heavy metals, potentially changing pollutants into more toxic forms that can leak into reservoirs. Bacterial diversity shifts could affect the delicate ecosystem balance and impact plant and animal health.
Materials scientists have developed a theoretical model to predict the strength of metals at the nanoscale. Their study found that metal strengths saturate at around 10-50 nanometers diameter due to temperature and strain rate sensitivity.
Svilen Bobev, a University of Delaware assistant professor, has received the NSF Faculty Early Career Development Award to study novel rare earth metal compounds. The project will analyze the crystal chemistry and properties of these compounds using advanced techniques.
A new portable detection system developed by PNNL can accurately detect toxic lead and other heavy metals in blood, urine, and saliva samples. The device is field-deployable, battery-operated, and provides quicker results than current state-of-the-art mass spectrometry systems.
Using a tabletop laser, researchers have successfully transformed pure metals into various colors, including gold, aluminum, black platinum, and blue silver. The process involves creating nanostructures on metal surfaces that selectively reflect specific colors.
A graduate student at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute has made important findings on deep Earth interactions, suggesting a new mechanism for metal movement between the core and mantle. The research could have broad implications for geology and potentially lead to valuable deposits of gold and platinum.
Scientists have found a specific way in which copper contributes to the disease process in Alzheimer's. Copper damages the molecule LRP, which normally escorts out amyloid beta from the brain, leading to increased levels of the toxic substance in the brains of people with Alzheimer's.
Researchers at Cardiff University are developing cost-effective methods to recycle platinum and other precious metals from road dust and vehicle exhausts. This innovative approach aims to produce clean fuel cells, minimizing waste and creating reliable, greener energy.
Scientists discovered bacteria in a flooded mine emit proteins that accumulate and trap metal nanoparticles, forming large aggregates that reduce mobility. This process may lead to new bioremediation strategies for toxic metals like arsenic and lead.
Scientists at PNNL will receive $1.98 million to study enzymes that convert chemicals to energy, potentially leading to new, affordable materials for hydrogen fuel cells. The goal is to replace expensive platinum with abundant, inexpensive metals like iron and molybdenum.
Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory have discovered the crystal structure of curium under pressure, revealing new insights into magnetically stabilized crystals. The study uses electron energy-loss spectroscopy and density functional theory to understand the electronic and magnetic structure of Cm.
Mercury has been shown to activate phospholipase D enzyme in cells lining blood vessels, causing damage and contributing to vascular disorders. Chelation therapy and antioxidants have been found to suppress this activity, suggesting potential preventive measures against mercury-induced cardiovascular disease.
Research led by University of Arizona scientist Paul R. Sheppard found that tree rings from Fallon, Nev. showed quadrupled tungsten levels between 1990 and 2002, preceding a rise in childhood leukemia cases. The study suggests environmental contamination may be to blame for the cluster.
A new discovery by a University of Missouri-Columbia research team allows scientists to manipulate molecules to give them metal-like properties, creating a new pseudo-element. This 'pseudo-metal' can be adjusted for various uses and may change the way scientists think about attacking disease or building electronics.
Researchers at UCR have discovered cyclic alkyl amino carbenes (CAACs), which can mimic the behavior of metals in splitting hydrogen under mild conditions. This breakthrough could lead to the development of carbon-based systems for storing hydrogen and producing useful amino compounds.
A pilot study found significant correlations between copper and lead levels in sheep wool and local streams, suggesting that sheep wool can be a reliable bio-indicator of naturally occurring heavy metal concentrations. The study also revealed sex-specific differences in the accumulation of lead and copper in male sheep.
Researchers discovered that present-day organisms use trace metals derived from ancient changes in ocean chemistry. Protein structures revealed a major influence of geochemistry on life, leading to diversification and complexity. The study links biology and geology, shedding light on co-evolutionary processes.
Researchers at Max Planck Institute for Metals Research develop adhesive material mimicking beetle feet's microhairs for improved adhesion. The material exhibits excellent performance, lasting hundreds of applications and showing benefits such as no visible marks or need for cleaning.
A patented technology developed by HydroGlobe at Stevens Institute of Technology has won the Thomas Alva Edison Patent Award. The Metsorb TM system is a highly effective and low-cost method for removing arsenic and various heavy metals from ground and surface water.
Researchers have developed a new method to study materials under extreme conditions, revealing the evolution of high-strain-rate plasticity. The technique combines molecular dynamics simulations with experimental data from laser experiments, providing insights into metal deformation and material strength.
Researchers discover that bacteria prefer larger nanoparticles to smaller ones for efficient metal reduction. The study reveals a 10-fold difference in bioreduction rates among particles of similar shape but different sizes, with larger particles being reduced faster than smaller ones.
Recent studies have found that levels of toxic metals in New Orleans soil samples were not significantly higher than before Hurricane Katrina. In fact, some pollutants may have decreased due to natural processes. Researchers are now focusing on restoring the Gulf Coast's resilience through science and engineering.
Scientists have discovered a common coastal strain of cyanobacteria that thrives in choppy, polluted waters. The study found that this strain has evolved unique metal-processing biology missing in its open-ocean relative, enabling it to absorb and process essential metals.
A new study found that Sydney harbor's seaweeds contain high levels of toxic heavy metals, harming small animals that eat them. Up to three-quarters of juvenile crustaceans are killed when exposed to copper, highlighting the potential consequences for marine food chains.
Physicist Andrei Lebed has discovered exotic superconductivity where electron pairs exhibit both rotating and non-rotating behavior, breaking down conventional symmetry laws. This phenomenon is observed in strong magnetic fields and has significant implications for our understanding of quantum mechanics.
Researchers use X-ray microbeam to measure stresses and strains in deformed metal, confirming a 20-year-old theory. The study provides quantitative data to support computer models of mechanical stress, offering new insights into the behavior of metals.
Researchers discovered that Shewanella oneidensis MR-1 bacteria protect metals like copper, aluminum, and mild steel from corrosion. The study found increased resistance to electrical currents and reduced pitting in metals exposed to the bacteria.
The SAMMS technology can selectively remove metal contaminants without creating hazardous waste or by-products, with initial targets including coal-fired power plants and municipal facilities. In tests, 99.9% of mercury was successfully removed from simulated wastewater, meeting EPA discharge limits.
Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory discovered that three line defects in the crystal structure of metals create a stronger bond than when only two dislocations intersect. This finding has significant implications for hardening metals and could be applied to various industries, including construction and manufacturing.
Researchers have created iridium and platinum nitrides, which exhibit strong bonds that contribute to hardness and durability. These compounds may be used in durable coatings, substrates, conductors, and optoelectronic devices.
The NIST Structural Database has been upgraded to improve the quality of its crystal structure data, ensuring accurate results for materials analysis. The database now includes standardized data and additional fields for enhanced analysis capabilities.
Scientists have successfully created a novel class of metal nitrides made from noble metals, exhibiting unusual or unique properties. These new compounds may prove to be even more durable than current titanium nitrides used in the semiconductor industry.
Dr. Jeremy Richards proposes setting uniform royalty rates for metal producers to account for extraction costs, which could lead to increased revenue for governments and reduced environmental impact. He also envisions a system of product ownership and recycling to promote social equity and sustainable development.
Researchers at MIT create a new alloy using nanostructure manipulation to replace chromium, a toxic material used in industrial coatings, reducing fumes and improving resistance to corrosion. The technology has the potential to transform industries and improve worker safety.
A Dartmouth research study confirmed earlier findings that toxic metals like arsenic and lead remain in the top 10 inches of soil after pesticide use. The new study reveals these metals are now part of the fine silt and organic matter, increasing erosion risk to nearby waters.
Johns Hopkins engineers discover that metallic glass atoms form unique Kasper polyhedra, joining together in clusters and forming cavities. This breakthrough advances materials science knowledge and paves the way for intelligent design techniques to create materials with precise mechanical characteristics.