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ETH Zurich


Quantum optics with microwaves

Researchers at ETH Zurich successfully demonstrate the Hong-Ou-Mandel effect using microwave photons, showcasing a fundamental aspect of quantum mechanics. The experiment offers new possibilities for characterizing radiation sources and may lead to practical applications in quantum communication and information processing.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Physics·DateMay 8, 2013

Global networks must be redesigned

Helbing's research reveals that global networks can amplify vulnerability to disasters, making it difficult to predict and control complex systems. By redesigning these networks with real-time data, we can enhance transparency, adaptive control, and mitigate catastrophic failures.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateMay 1, 2013

Conversion from bad fat to good fat

Scientists at ETH Zurich demonstrated that white and brown fat cells can convert into each other, challenging current beliefs. This interconversion process is likely to occur in humans as well, offering a novel strategy for treating obesity by promoting brown fat formation.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Cell Biology·DateApr 28, 2013

Germanium made laser compatible

Researchers develop method to make germanium laser-compatible through high tensile strain, enabling faster data transfer via light. The new technique could increase computer performance and revolutionize computing chip design.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 22, 2013

A new twist for quantum systems

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new control method for quantum systems, enabling precise steering through Hilbert spaces. This breakthrough has significant implications for the development of practical quantum computers.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature·DateApr 17, 2013

New material gets itself into shape

Scientists have created a composite material that can bend and twist in response to external stimuli like temperature or moisture. This programmable plasticity enables the material to take on various shapes, making it suitable for applications such as self-shaping ceramic parts and biodegradable implants.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 16, 2013

Tin nanocrystals for the battery of the future

Researchers from ETH Zurich have created tin nanocrystals that can absorb and release lithium ions more effectively, leading to improved energy storage capacity. The smaller crystals are able to store more energy than larger ones, making them ideal for future lithium ion batteries.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateApr 8, 2013

Tortuous paths hamper ion transport

Scientists have created a three-dimensional map of electrode materials in lithium-ion batteries, revealing their unique structures and impact on charging speeds. The study's findings suggest that using round particles instead of plate-like ones can significantly improve the battery's performance.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateApr 8, 2013

A fingerprint of exhaled breath

Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a new method to analyze the chemical composition of exhaled breath, revealing an individual's unique 'breathprint' that stays constant over time. This non-invasive approach holds promise for early disease detection and monitoring, and could potentially replace traditional blood and urine analysis.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalPLOS ONE·DateApr 3, 2013

An Internet for robots

Researchers developed a cloud-computing platform called RoboEarth Cloud Engine to accelerate robot learning and adaptation in complex tasks. The platform allows robots to access enterprise-scale computing infrastructure, paving the way for lighter, cheaper, and more intelligent robots.

Subordinate animals as guinea pigs

Researchers observed wild meerkat groups in the Kalahari Desert, where dominant females yield to lower-ranked individuals to cross roads, revealing a complex adaptation mechanism. This phenomenon may be an innate response, allowing animals to cope with novel threats and minimizing group risk.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalPLOS ONE·DateFeb 18, 2013