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A light twist

A researcher at the University of Tsukuba has developed a method for producing electrically conductive polymers with helical configurations, which can convert linearly polarized light into circular polarization. This approach may lead to cheaper and more energy-efficient electronic displays.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalMolecular Crystals and Liquid Crystals·DateJun 16, 2022

Nanoantennas for light controlled electrically

Scientists at Linköping University have created optical nanoantennas using conducting polymers that can switch between metallic and dielectric properties. The researchers achieved electrical control of the nanoantennas, enabling gradual tuning by applying external bias potentials.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 17, 2022

Storing energy in plants with electronic roots

Scientists have successfully stored energy in bean plant roots using conjugated oligomers, creating a new biohybrid system for sustainable energy storage. The research demonstrates that the roots of intact plants can function as networks of conductors, storing up to 100 times more energy than previous experiments.

SourceLinköping University·JournalMaterials Horizons·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2021

Welcoming composite inks into the fold

A new composite ink composed of ceramic particles in polymer acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene (ABS) has been developed to make foldable electronics easier and cheaper to manufacture. The ink enables the creation of flexible, large-area dielectric substrates suitable for millimeter-wave devices, including 5G antennas.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 13, 2021

3D nano-inks push industry boundaries

Mechanical engineering researchers at Michigan Technological University have created a 3D-printable nanocomposite polymeric ink using carbon nanotubes. The ink's properties, such as electrical conductivity and increased strength, make it suitable for various applications, including aerospace and electronics industries.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalAdditive Manufacturing·DateSep 24, 2021

Polymer electrolytes for all-solid-state batteries without dead zones

Researchers developed a novel block copolymer electrolyte that controls structure through electrostatic interactions, enhancing ionic conductivity. The new nanostructure enables significant enhancement in conductivity compared to typical two-dimensional structures, paving the way for safer all-solid-state batteries.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 20, 2021

TPU scientists develop efficient method to create high-strength materials for flexible electronics

Researchers at Tomsk Polytechnic University have developed a method to create high-strength, electrically conductive composites using laser-driven integration of metals into polymers. The new method offers improved mechanical stability and potential applications in flexible electronics, photocatalysis, sensors, and biomedical products.

SourceTomsk Polytechnic University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMar 2, 2021

Untwisting plastics for charging internet-of-things devices

Researchers at Nagoya University have created a new material that can efficiently charge Internet-of-Things (IoT) devices using body heat. The breakthrough involves adding an ion electrolyte gel to a conducting polymer, which untwists the polymer chain and creates links between its crystalline parts, improving electron conductivity.

SourceNagoya University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 16, 2020

Creating switchable plasmons in plastics

Scientists at Linköping University develop optical nanoantennas made from a conducting polymer, allowing for controllable nano-optical components. The antennas react to light and can be switched on and off, making them suitable for applications such as smart windows.

SourceLinköping University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateDec 9, 2019

Faster-charging, safer batteries

Scientists at UD aim to improve battery performance by introducing tapers into polymer membrane electrolytes, increasing conductivity and processing speed. The goal is to create more impact-resistant and safer batteries for devices like cell phones, laptops, and electric vehicles.

This is what a stretchy circuit looks like

Scientists in China develop a hybrid conductive material that can be bent and stretched at will, making it suitable for wearable electronics and implantable devices. The material, called metal-polymer conductor, is non-toxic and has broad applications for diagnosing and treating diseases.

SourceCell Press·JournaliScience·DateJun 14, 2018

Soft machines

Researchers at UCSB have created a new type of actuator that combines speed and softness, enabling faster and more versatile soft robotic systems. The actuator, made from liquid-metal alloy conductors and magnetized polymer composites, allows for fast and low-voltage movement in various applications.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateMay 21, 2018

'Random walk' of heat carriers in amorphous polymers

The study investigates how chain conformation influences thermal conductivity in amorphous polymers, revealing that ultra-thin polymer nanofibers exhibit higher thermal conductivity due to aligned molecular chains. An empirical function is proposed to describe the diameter dependence of chain conformation.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·DateFeb 28, 2018

Organic computers are coming

Researchers discover a derivative of [3]-radialene, a small planar molecule, which can be used to create organic semiconductors. The molecule increases the electrical conductivity of polymers by several tens and hundreds of times, paving the way for new organic solar cells and field-effect transistors.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 14, 2016