Empa researcher Sebastian Siol develops new phase of manganese selenide and telluride alloy, displaying useful piezoelectric properties. The material combination is promising for various applications such as smart windows, gas sensors and semiconductor coatings.
Researchers have solved the mystery of steam burns, revealing that water vapour penetrates skin pores to cause second-degree burns. The epidermis cannot protect against steam, which condenses in the lower dermal layer, releasing thermal energy and triggering damage. To minimize damage, cooling is essential for a long time.
Researchers from Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA) have developed a new insulating material using microscopic bubbles, creating an ultra-insulating brick called Aerobrick. This innovation outperforms traditional insulation methods by up to 35%.
Researchers developed a method to measure ocean temperatures over the last 24'000 years with high accuracy using noble gases in Antarctic ice cores. The study shows that the concentration of noble gases in the atmosphere is strongly correlated with the average ocean temperature, allowing conclusions to be drawn about past climate states.
Researchers have successfully grown graphene nanoribbons with a regular armchair edge, exhibiting a precisely defined energy gap. This enabled the integration of these structures into nanotransistors, overcoming previous challenges related to dielectric layers and ribbon alignment.
Researchers from Empa and UNIGE have developed a new battery prototype that stores more energy while maintaining high safety levels. The battery uses a solid electrolyte and metallic sodium, which enables faster charging and increased storage capacity.
Researchers have developed a stacked color sensor using perovskites, which improves colour recognition and light sensitivity. This allows for more accurate image capture and enables the creation of smaller pixel sizes, potentially leading to higher spatial resolution in various analysis technologies.
Researchers developed illuminated pajamas that emit therapeutic blue light directly onto a baby's skin, improving the treatment experience and reducing discomfort. The photonic textiles, woven into satin fabric, are breathable, comfortable, and suitable for everyday wear.
Researchers developed a low-cost battery using waste graphite, offering high safety and simplicity in production. The battery features a unique cathode material and can withstand thousands of charging cycles.
Researchers have identified a polysaccharide alginate from brown algae as a potential treatment for arthritis, slowing down cartilage degeneration and suppressing inflammatory reactions. Further research is needed to test the substance on animals and eventually humans.
Researchers at Empa investigate microfiber release from polyester textiles during washing, finding constant fiber quantity regardless of temperature or wash cycle duration. The study reveals a lack of effect from washing agents and detergents on microfiber release.
Proton movement in ceramic fuel cells follows polaron model, allowing for increased conductivity. The discovery sheds new light on material choice for sustainable energy and hydrogen storage systems.
A skin model made from gelatine can simulate human skin's characteristics and frictional behavior against textiles in dry and hydrated conditions. This allows for early rejection of unsuitable textiles without exposing humans to risk, saving time and resources.
A team of scientists from Empa and PSU investigated the DBS molecule's rotation rates at different temperatures, finding a non-uniform energy landscape. The results suggest that entropy plays a crucial role in molecular mobility even at low temperatures.
Scientists at Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA) are working on a novel treatment approach for blood poisoning. They aim to remove bacteria from the blood using magnetic purification, which could potentially replace antibiotics in some cases.
A team of researchers has successfully developed liquid-crystalline nanostructures that protect antimicrobial peptides, allowing them to target and destroy bacteria without being degraded. This innovative approach could provide a new weapon in the fight against antibiotic-resistant superbugs.
Empa researchers develop new flame retardants with improved flame retardancy and no toxic effects, highlighting the importance of toxicological cross-checking before mass production. The newly developed EDA-DOPO is a good candidate for further development, showing better safety and effectiveness than previously available products.
Researchers at the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA) have successfully synthesized graphene nanoribbons (GNR) with perfectly zigzagged edges using a perfected manufacturing process. This breakthrough enables the creation of spintronic devices that can efficiently switch on and off with minimal energ...
Researchers at Empa combined direct measurements with a transport model to validate statistics on greenhouse gas emissions in Switzerland. The study confirms estimated annual emission of approximately 200,000 tonnes of methane, with livestock farming contributing 70% of emissions.
Researchers at EMPA have developed tandem solar cells that convert a larger portion of light energy into electricity, using polycrystalline thin films and semi-transparent perovskite film. The new process enables large area low-cost processing and flexible plastic or metal foils as substrates.
Researchers at Empa have created a 'fool's gold' battery using magnesium and pyrite, offering safe, durable, and affordable storage. The battery has withstood 40 charging cycles without compromising performance.
Scientists have discovered a previously undocumented sheet-silicate crystal structure in the alkali-aggregate reaction, a chemical process that weakens concrete over decades. This breakthrough could lead to the development of more durable concrete, reducing global infrastructure failures.
A new method developed by Empa researchers could lead to the production of biodegradable motorcycle helmets made from carrot waste fibers. The 'MPAS' approach assesses market potential and ecological impact, identifying six possible customer segments for the Scottish manufacturer Cellucomp.
A Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA) study found that fuel cells for cars are only ecologically sound if they run on hydrogen from renewable energy sources. Electric cars powered by EU electricity also produce more environmental pollution than gasoline-powered cars.
The European Nanomedicine Characterization Laboratory (EU-NCL) aims to bring safe and efficient nanotherapeutics faster to patients. EU-NCL partners with international reference facilities to harmonize analytical protocols, providing a trans-disciplinary testing infrastructure for preclinical characterization.
A Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA) project developed an innovative hybrid-electric powertrain for road sweepers, reducing energy consumption by 45% compared to diesel-powered vehicles. The new system also decreases CO2 emissions by 60%, thanks to natural gas's lower carbon content.
A new chest strap ECG monitor has been developed using wettable electrodes that are kept moist by an artificial sweating process. The device can now be used for long-term heart rate monitoring, addressing previous limitations of gel electrodes.
Researchers at Empa use computer simulations and 3D X-ray imaging to study back pain caused by mechanical issues. They aim to identify misalignments in the spinal column and develop personalized therapy recommendations.
Researchers at Empa measure first generation of coolants in the Swiss atmosphere, finding a faster decay rate than predecessors. The study highlights environmental concerns related to these substances, including their potential impact on ecosystems and human health.
Poorly executed nanosafety experiments have led to a lack of new knowledge, with most projects being irreproducible due to inadequate particle characterization. The 'NanoScreen' programme aims to address this issue by providing pre-validated methods for lab experiments using standardized test materials.
Researchers have developed a plaster that delivers caffeine to premature babies through a membrane, providing a continuous and stable dosage for several hours. The technology uses light-sensitive materials to control the delivery rate, allowing for individualized treatment.
A Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA) team has developed a chemical navigation system that uses the Marangoni effect to find the quickest route to a destination. By applying acid and alkaline liquids with dyes, the system creates a color trail that indicates the shortest path.
Scientists create doped graphene nanoribbons with nitrogen atoms, enabling directional electronic current flow and solving scaling issues. The development allows for the transfer of ultra-narrow graphene ribbons onto non-conductive materials, paving the way for future graphene-based electronics.
Researchers at Empa successfully synthesized structurally homogenous single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) by using molecular 'seeds' that were transformed into three-dimensional objects and grown on a platinum surface. The resulting SWCNTs have mirror-image symmetry and reach lengths in excess of 300 nanometres.
A study by Empa found that silver-coated textiles release hardly any nano-particles during washing, unlike conventional coatings. The team also discovered that these textiles generally lose less silver during washing due to the smaller amount of silver incorporated into fabric with nano-coating.
Empa researchers have developed a microstructure that gathers sunlight on the photoelectrode surface, allowing it to absorb all the energy in the beam. This innovative structure is inspired by the eyes of moths, which collect as much light as possible while reflecting as little as possible.
Researchers at the Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology have developed highly absorbent nanocellulose sponges that can absorb up to 50 times their own weight of oil. These sponges, known as 'silylated' nanocellulose sponges, also float reliably on water and are biodegradable.
Researchers at EMPA have developed a water-based method for applying transparent conductive oxide (TCO) films, reducing energy consumption and costs. The new process uses molecular self-organisation to grow the TCO film without high-temperature thermal treatment.
Scientists at Empa have developed a material that can adapt its vibration properties electronically, allowing for the precise control of wave propagation. This breakthrough enables the creation of mechanical components with freely programmable properties, revolutionizing fields like mechanical engineering and plant construction.
Scientists at Empa have developed a new manufacturing technique for high-efficiency CIGS solar cells, achieving a record-breaking energy conversion rate of 20.4%. This improvement enables CIGS cells to compete with polycrystalline silicon cells, marking a significant advancement in the field.
The 3D NanoChemiscope enables simultaneous analysis of mechanical and chemical properties in three dimensions, revolutionizing surface analysis. By combining a scanning force microscope and high-end mass spectrometer, researchers can study the composition and structure of surfaces with unprecedented precision.
Empa scientists developed a new method to increase the efficiency of flexible CdTe solar cells on metal foil by using copper doping. The study achieved efficiencies up to 13.6% and 11.5%, exceeding previous records, with the goal of reaching 20% in the future.
Researchers at Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA) have developed non-toxic flame retardants, replacing conventional halogenated chemicals. The new compounds, derived from organic phosphorus, have been shown to be effective without harming the manufacturing process or environment.
A study by researchers at Empa and ETH Zurich found that none of Switzerland's households meet the 2000-watt society target, but those with high standards of living consume significantly less energy. Improving transportation and living habits are key to achieving a sustainable future.
The recycling of discarded consumer goods can make a big contribution to efficient management of non-renewable raw materials. A new international process is being launched to develop quality and sustainability standards for secondary raw materials, focusing on three main areas: improving basic data and support for pilot projects.
A recent study reveals that two different types of electron holes contribute to the photocurrent in hematite-based photoanodes. The discovery was made using soft X-ray absorption spectroscopy under simulated sunlight and in the dark, providing new insights into the electronic structure of hematite.
Despite reducing greenhouse gas emissions, many biofuels lead to environmental pollution, such as acid in soil and polluted lakes and rivers. Only a few biofuels have a better ecobalance than petrol, with biogas from residues and waste materials showing promise.
The study found that diesel soot triggers a genetic detoxification mechanism in human lung cells but also contains toxic substances like carboxyl groups. The World Health Organization has reclassified diesel soot as a cause of lung cancer based on sufficient evidence.
Researchers explore new applications for textiles, including medical implants and wearable technology, with potential for high added value. Empa and the Fiber Society conference showcased latest developments in conductive fibers and electrospinning.
The new handbook provides a common scientific basis for nanoparticle testing, standardizing procedures and analytical methods. It aims to improve the comparability of research results and address concerns about nanoparticle toxicity.