Materials Engineering

Could sea squirts' nano-packaging delivery system help restore sea forests?

Synthetic biology leads to recyclable textiles: Engineered protein fibers for a cleaner future

Major hurdle in photovoltaic technologies surpassed with use of hydrazide indole additive

The use of 1H-indole-3-carbohydrazide in perovskite solar cells has successfully alleviated the major obstacle of defect-induced nonradiative recombination, leading to improved stability and power conversion efficiency. This additive achieves a critical balance between high performance and long-term durability.

Smarter search for fuel-cell catalysts using machine learning

Researchers have developed a new computational workflow combining generative AI with atomistic simulations to identify promising platinum alloy catalyst structures for hydrogen fuel cells. The method produces high-performing candidates from several material combinations, addressing a longstanding challenge in catalyst design.

Printed oxygen "highways" shatter the 2D transistor speed limit

A research team has successfully removed the primary obstacle to post-silicon computing by creating a record-breaking electronic connection for atomic-thin materials. The new GaOx layer enables 'hybrid tunnelling' mechanism, reducing contact resistance and allowing transistors to operate at much lower voltages without sacrificing speed.

Toward artificial muscles that bend and twist on demand

Recycled rare earth magnets reach key milestone in EU-funded HARMONY project

The HARMONY project has achieved a significant milestone by processing recycled neodymium-iron-boron powder into functional magnet components. The process enables the production of high-quality magnets using industrially relevant methods, reducing dependence on primary raw materials.

AI-powered lab discovers brighter lead-free nanomaterials in 12 hours

A new autonomous laboratory named PoLARIS has identified brighter, lead-free light-emitting nanomaterials in just 12 hours. By analyzing the optical properties and adjusting variables, PoLARIS has improved the brightness of these materials, enabling faster discovery of safer optical nanoplatelets for various applications.

The hidden structure behind a widely used class of materials

A team of researchers from MIT has directly characterized the three-dimensional atomic structure of a relaxor ferroelectric for the first time. This breakthrough provides a framework for refining models used to design next-generation computing, energy, and sensing devices.

NSF CAREER Award winner hopes to improve design of soft materials

Wagner's research aims to bridge the gap between molecular structure and mechanical properties, using machine learning to analyze entanglements in polymer chains. This could lead to designing more effective biomimetic tissue implants and other cutting-edge biomedical devices.

Toward tougher, longer-lasting, more sustainable tires

Harvard engineers develop new method to preserve long molecular chains in natural rubber, resulting in composite materials that are both stiff and tough. The innovation has the potential to cut waste, reduce tire dust pollution, and open new avenues for high-performance elastomers.

Turning plastic waste into clean fuel using sunlight

Researchers develop solar-powered technology to convert plastic waste into valuable fuels, including hydrogen and syngas, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and addressing pollution challenges.

Hemp waste biocomposites offer a lower-carbon alternative for packaging and agricultural films

New study finds anaerobic digestion of hemp hurd-based bioplastic systems delivers the best environmental outcome, generating up to 6.1 kg less CO2 emissions per 1 kg mulch film treated. The production process significantly affects the final carbon footprint of biocomposites.

Resistivity-enhanced multi-physics machine learning framework for dynamic stress prediction in high sensitive UHPC

Researchers developed a multi-physics machine learning framework that improves stress prediction accuracy by integrating electrical resistivity. The model achieved significant reductions in mean absolute error and improved coefficient of determination, making it a promising approach for real-time monitoring of compressive stress in UHPC.

With a swipe of a magnet, microscopic “magno-bots” perform complex maneuvers

Engineers at MIT and their collaborators create a new type of soft magnetic hydrogel that can be made into complex, magnetically activated three-dimensional structures. The new gel enables the creation of microscopic, magnetically responsive robots and materials with micron-scale precision.

Ultraviolet light that fits on a chip

The Harvard-led team demonstrates a micron-scale photonic device that generates two orders of magnitude more UV light on a chip than previous approaches. By converting red light to UV light through frequency upconversion, the researchers create high-power, low-loss, compact UV sources.

Investigating the effects of high-volume fly ash on early-age characteristics and hardening properties of concrete

This study investigates the effects of high-volume fly ash on early-age characteristics and hardening properties of concrete. The results show that fly ash can improve fresh concrete workability but delays setting time. However, moderate fly ash replacement achieves excellent long-term strength and stiffness.

Crab shell by-products could help regulate the marine lifetime of biodegradable plastics

Researchers find crab shell waste alters microbial communities on biodegradable plastics, reducing breakdown rate. The effect persists even without direct contact, suggesting biochemical compounds released from crab shells trigger changes in the plastisphere.

How does electron structure impact light responses in moiré materials?

New research reveals that the organization of electrons within a material determines its response to light. The study shows that moiré superlattices can be engineered to exhibit unusual properties by controlling electron arrangement.

Rice-led research turns lunar material into building blocks for future moon infrastructure

A new study from Rice University transforms lunar regolith simulant into a valuable building resource, strengthening advanced composite materials by up to 30-40%. The innovative approach reduces dependence on Earth-supplied materials, increasing the feasibility of longer missions and infrastructure development.

Scientists explore whether plastic particles could be linked to significant rises in liver disease

Researchers investigate whether micro- and nanoplastics contribute to liver disease through oxidative stress, fibrogenesis, and inflammation. They emphasize the need for increased research into plastic-induced liver injury and its potential impact on human health.

Bamboo waste treatment method improves strength and insulation in green building composites

A mild chemical strategy enhances interfacial bonding and pore structure in biomass-based magnesium cement materials, leading to improved mechanical strength and thermal insulation. The approach promotes more uniform pore distribution, stabilizes the foam structure within the composite, and reduces environmental burden.

How turbulences affect wind turbines

Researchers develop new concept to accurately model wind turbine loads, focusing on local gusts' impact on material fatigue. This enhances turbine design and efficiency by reducing uncertainties in load estimations.

New material makes heart monitoring tech more comfortable

Researchers created a new polymer electrode that conforms to the skin, is comfortable, and can pick up ECG signals without gel or adhesives. The technology performed comparably to existing sensors in proof-of-concept testing, showcasing its potential for practical and cost-effective health monitoring applications.

Researchers develop scalable method for safer, compostable packaging

A team at Virginia Tech developed a water-based process to create multilayer bioplastic films that are both high-performing and easier to manufacture. The method avoids toxic solvents and matches current industrial production speeds, making it viable for real-world use.

Hannover Messe: Thin polymer films – the material behind a new generation of pumps

Researchers at Saarland University have developed a new class of miniature actuators using ultrathin silicone film-based pumps. The pumps can operate without motors, compressed air, or lubricants and can be switched on and off as needed.

Energy-efficient cooling elements from a 3D printer: Elastocaloric cooling systems at Hannover Messe

Researchers at Saarland University have developed energy-efficient geometries for elastocaloric cooling elements using 3D printing. The technology uses shape-memory alloys to release heat when stretched and absorb it when released, promising a cleaner alternative to traditional cooling methods.

Millisecond electric pulse makes titanium stronger and tougher

Researchers from Kumamoto University and partners discovered a method to enhance titanium alloys using high-density pulsed electric current, achieving improved strength and toughness. The technique harnesses an electron wind force to reorganize the internal crystal structure, producing nanoscale martensitic phases that disperse stress ...

Electrocatalysts: New model for charge separation at the solid-liquid interface

Researchers developed a powerful model to understand charge separation at the interface, influencing catalytic activity. The model provides insights into the formation of electric double layers and local electric potential variations.

Researchers use large language models to discover recipes for novel materials

The researchers developed an AI-based method that allows users to input natural language prompts about the materials they want to create and suggests optimal procedures for experiments to produce them. The method has been successfully applied to identify catalysts for turning carbon dioxide and hydrogen into carbon monoxide and water u...

'Like liquid metal': Entangled, staple-like particles could inspire new generation of materials

Researchers at CU Boulder explore entangled particles for strong, adaptable materials. They found a 'two-legged' particle shape with optimal geometry delivers maximum entanglement, combining strength and toughness.

HKU High West Development receives Outstanding MiC Project (Design) award

The University of Hong Kong's High West Development has been awarded the Outstanding MiC Project (Design) award for its innovative application of Modular Integrated Construction. The project features high-quality design, campus planning, and heritage sensitivity, showcasing how MiC can be integrated with these aspects.

How an algorithm is curing 3D printing’s cracking problem

A team of researchers developed a machine learning framework to optimize laser settings for printing crack-susceptible superalloys. The algorithm reduced internal crack density by 99% and increased the metal's high-temperature strength, surpassing traditional cast components.

From springs and bolts, St. Olaf researchers built a computer that doesn’t require electricity

St. Olaf researchers create mechanical computers that can perform simple computations without a computer chip or power source, harnessing their power from physical force. The devices demonstrate proof of design for alternative computing in harsh settings, paving the way for smart materials and responsive artificial limbs.

Water-soluble cellulose adhesive enables strong, reusable bonding across extreme conditions

Researchers have developed a water-soluble cellulose ethyl phosphite (CEP) adhesive that integrates high bonding strength, environmental tolerance, and recyclability. The CEP adhesive demonstrates remarkable thermal stability and resistance to moisture-related degradation, making it suitable for various applications.

Bio-inspired structural design improves impact resistance and energy absorption

Researchers developed a lightweight lattice structure inspired by butterfly wings, exhibiting enhanced mechanical strength, impact resistance, and energy absorption capabilities. The new design outperforms conventional lattice designs under compression and dynamic impact loading.

Materials that learn to change shape

Scientists at the University of Amsterdam have developed metamaterials that learn and adapt without a central brain, allowing them to change shape and perform advanced tasks. These 'smart' materials can forget old shapes and learn new ones, enabling them to evolve and perform complex tasks.

Stitching precise patterns - with lasers

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have developed a new manufacturing strategy to precisely control the formation of laser-induced graphene on polymers. This allows for the creation of flexible microelectrodes and neurochemical biosensors with robust electrical and electrochemical performance.

Graphene ‘nano-aquariums’ reveal atoms’ hidden life in liquids

Researchers have developed a technique to image individual atoms at solid-liquid interfaces in a range of non-aqueous solvents, enabling the study of key chemical processes and catalysts. The 'nano-aquarium' method uses graphene windows to contain tiny liquid cells, allowing for atomic-scale imaging and tracking of millions of atoms.

HKU Centre of Functional Materials for Energy and Sustainability joins third InnoHK research cluster

The Centre will address bottleneck challenges in advanced battery materials and electric-enabled technology for energy storage and green conversion. Collaborations with renowned institutions will drive innovation and accelerate translation of research outcomes into real-world impact.

Robots can’t feel; these sensors could change that

Researchers have developed a highly sensitive electronic 'skin' using tiny devices that can measure force applied over an area. This technology has the potential to improve prosthetic limbs and robotic manipulation, allowing robots to accurately track hand movements and grasp delicate objects.

Light bends perovskite crystal lattice, opening way to new devices

Researchers have discovered a photostriction effect in perovskite crystals that reversibly changes shape when exposed to light. This property makes them 'smart materials' that can be tuned to respond to stimuli, potentially leading to new device designs such as sensors or actuators.

Laser tornado in a synthetic magnetic field

Researchers from the University of Warsaw and other institutions created optical tornadoes by combining spatially variable birefringence with an optical microcavity. This allows for the creation of miniature light sources with complex structures, potentially enabling simpler and more scalable photonic devices.

OU researcher sheds light on growth mechanisms of ice-like materials

Researchers discovered an unusual interfacial layer that promotes higher growth rates by adsorbing carbon dioxide molecules. The study aims to explore larger hydrate structures for technology development and address real-world problems such as CO2 containment and water desalination.

Viciazites: Efficient carbon capture designer materials that could desorb below 60 oC

Researchers have developed a new class of carbon materials called 'viciazites' that contain carefully controlled configurations of nitrogen groups, enabling low-temperature operation and efficient CO2 capture. The materials outperform untreated carbon fibers in CO2 uptake and desorption at temperatures below 60°C.

Real-time X-rays reveal how a 'flash-freezing' alloy evades the stress of 3D printing

Researchers developed a bespoke aluminum alloy specifically tailored to survive and thrive in 3D printing. The new material produces components with significantly higher strength and lower internal stress than current industry standards.

Programmable ‘smart stamp’ transfers microscopic chips to build 3D circuits

Researchers develop programmable system to selectively pick up and place delicate electronic components, enabling mass production of defect-free displays and 3D microchips. The 'smart stamp' technology uses localized heating to control a polymer's stickiness, allowing precise transfer of semiconductor chips and other materials.

HKU engineers designed and fabricated inch-scale ultrahard diamond wafers with 200 GPa hardness

Researchers developed inch-scale, binder-free ultrahard diamond wafers with Vickers hardness exceeding 200 GPa. The ultra-hard diamond wafer exhibits outstanding wear resistance and structural stability, making it suitable for applications in extreme-environment electronics, advanced manufacturing, and semiconductor thermal management.

PolyU research unveils mechanoelectrical perception in sea urchin spines, empowering next-generation biomimetic sensors

A research team led by Prof. Wang Zuankai has discovered the mechanism behind mechanoelectrical perception in sea urchin spines, which allows them to detect water flow instantly. The team has developed a bionic metamaterial sensor using gradient porous structure and 3D printing, holding promise for sensing technology breakthroughs.

Escaping the bubble trap: Plant-inspired 3D electrodes unlock ultra-fast hydrogen production

Researchers have developed a 3D electrode inspired by an aquatic plant, which captures and transports gas bubbles to increase hydrogen production. The design achieved a current density eight times higher than common flat electrodes, collecting 53.9% more hydrogen.

New hydrogel platform mimics human tissue, can be controlled by light

Researchers developed a water-rich, Jell-O-like hydrogel that mimics human tissue's movement, stretching, and relaxation. The hydrogel can be precisely controlled by light, enabling the study of cell behavior and disease modeling.

Ocean bacteria team up to break down biodegradable plastic

Researchers discovered 30 bacterial species that break down biodegradable plastic, revealing speed and factors influencing degradation. The study highlights the importance of understanding microbial communities and plastic chemistry in plastic biodegradation.

A clear roadmap for engineering combs of light

Engineers at Harvard create microcombs on photonic chips, enabling compact, programmable frequency combs for precision measurement and telecommunications applications. The breakthrough makes electro-optic microcombs more practical, energy efficient, and diverse.

A dynamic twist of light’s ‘handedness’

The Harvard researchers' new device is elegantly designed to be tunable, with a bilayer design that becomes geometrically chiral and able to 'read' chiral light. By using the MEMS device to continuously vary the twist angle and interlayer spacing, the team showed they could tune the device's intrinsic ability to read different chiral l...

Dongguk University researchers develop breakthrough material for powering next-generation smart devices

A new material, benzene-phosphonic acid (BPA), enables self-powered operation of smart sensors and wearables. The breakthrough technology reduces fabrication costs and promotes environmental sustainability.

Researchers capture thermal fluctuations in polymer segments for the first time

Kyushu University researchers observed individual polymer chains' behavior on solid surfaces, revealing non-equilibrium dynamics and thermal fluctuations. The study contributes to enhancing adhesive performance and lightweighting of materials.

Q&A: Gassing up bioengineered materials for wound healing

Researchers at Penn State have developed a new class of tunable biomaterials, known as granular aerogel scaffolds, to support tissue regeneration and vascularization in wound healing. The material offers improved cell infiltration and may help rapidly form new blood vessels and regenerate damaged tissue.

‘Sea creature’ minibot hoovers up oil spills

Engineers at RMIT University developed a remote-controlled minibot to collect oil spills using a filtering system inspired by sea urchins. The 'Electronic Dolphin' can skim slicks and collect oil with high efficiency, offering a safer and more targeted way to respond to spills in sensitive environments.

Large area MoS₂ reduces energy loss in magnetic memory films

Researchers at the University of Manchester found that large-area MoS₂ reduces energy loss in magnetic memory films by altering the film's internal crystal structure. This effect is not confined to laboratory-scale samples and has implications for real, scalable spintronic technologies.

Tiny thermometers offer on-chip temperature monitoring for processors

Researchers at Penn State have developed microscopic thermometers that can be integrated onto a chip to track temperatures. The sensors, made from advanced 2D materials, differentiate subtle temperature changes in just 100 nanoseconds and can be placed on a single chip, offering efficient temperature monitoring.