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American Institute of Physics


Shedding light on the formation of nanodroplets in aqueous solutions of polar organics

A team of Russian researchers used dynamic light scattering and phase microscopy to demonstrate the existence of stable nanodroplets of tetrahydrofuran (THF) in aqueous electrolyte solutions. The research developed a new theory explaining the spontaneous generation of heterogeneous nanoparticles due to 'twinkling' hydrogen bonds.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateNov 8, 2016

Artificial muscles show more flex

Researchers have developed a new fiber that offers higher tensile stroke and is triggered at temperatures lower than its predecessors, with potential applications in medical devices and self-healing materials. The fiber's unique geometry provides greater flexibility and thermal expansion/contraction properties.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 31, 2016

Cicada wings inspire antireflective surfaces

A team of Shanghai Jiao Tong University researchers developed antireflective structures capable of suppressing visible light at different angles of incidence. The structures, inspired by cicada wings, were fabricated using titanium dioxide and show great potential for photovoltaic devices like solar cells.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 11, 2016

Foam stops sloshing liquid

Researchers found that capillary forces from soap foam induce pressure gradients near the container walls, reducing sloshing motion. The dampening effect happens faster than expected exponential decay, causing the waves to stop after a finite time.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateSep 13, 2016

Understanding nature's patterns with plasmas

A new experiment reproduces nature's patterns with a specially designed system called an H-shaped dielectric barrier discharge system. The system produces filaments of discharge plasma that can assume vast ranges of patterns in 3D, allowing scientists to explore complex mechanisms behind nature's diverse designs.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateAug 23, 2016

Researchers immobilize underwater bubbles

A research team has developed a method to 'freeze' newly created microbubbles in their tracks, enabling potential applications in medicine, such as ultrasound contrast agents and gas embolotherapy. This breakthrough could also improve the nuclear industry by controlling microbubbles in liquid sodium coolant.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateAug 9, 2016

Unlocking the secrets of creeping concrete

Researchers discovered that calcium-silicate-hydrates dissolve at high-stress regions and re-precipitate at low-stress regions, leading to 'creep' deformation. This finding could help develop mechanistic models for predicting creep behavior and identifying cementation agents with reduced sensitivity.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateAug 2, 2016

Making terahertz lasers more powerful

Researchers have developed a new type of terahertz quantum cascade laser that can produce a record output power of up to 230 milliwatts in continuous wave mode. This breakthrough has significant implications for various applications, including spectroscopy, medical imaging, and remote sensing.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalAIP Advances·DateJul 26, 2016

Minimalist swimming microrobots

Researchers at Drexel University have developed a fabrication method for swimming microrobots using just two conjoined microparticles coated with magnetic debris. The microswimmers can be controlled by an external magnetic field, allowing for control over speed and direction.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJul 19, 2016

Why planes freeze

A new model developed by researchers at Shanghai Jiao Tong University provides a fuller understanding of supercooled large droplet icing mechanisms. The model identifies a different icing mechanism than previously identified and incorporates heat generated from impact thermodynamics.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJun 21, 2016

Seeing atoms

Chinese researchers have developed a new in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) technique that offers powerful functionality to understand atomic-scale structure and its correlation with physical and chemical properties. The technique has potential applications in smart windows, energy management, and environmental protection.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 7, 2016

Studying life on the rocks

A team of scientists has developed an apparatus to measure the behavior of ice under various external forces. The device can be used to study both terrestrial glaciers and icy satellite bodies, providing insights into potential life-supporting oceans beneath the ice.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalReview of Scientific Instruments·DateMay 31, 2016