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Materials break, then remake, bonds to build strength

Scientists have developed a new material that can strengthen itself in response to stress, similar to how muscles build strength through exercise. The material, inspired by weightlifting and Silly Putty, can transform from a liquid to a solid state, becoming stronger with each cycle of stress.

SourceDuke University·JournalNature Chemistry·DateAug 4, 2013

Light that moves and molds gels

The Pitt research team demonstrated that hydrogels can be reconfigured and controlled by light, undergoing self-sustained motion. This biomimetic behavior has significant implications in the medical arena, potentially leading to new devices and technologies.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateAug 1, 2013

Trapping T-rays for better security scanners

Scientists at the University of Adelaide have created a novel structure that traps terahertz waves in tiny holes to produce higher contrast imaging. This breakthrough has the potential to enhance the sensitivity of medical diagnostic and security scanners, leading to more accurate cancer detection and improved homeland security.

SourceUniversity of Adelaide·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateJul 10, 2013

Power-generating knee strap hints at end for batteries

Researchers have created a novel energy harvester that can power body-monitoring devices by walking, offering a potential solution to the heavy battery burden on soldiers. The device, designed to fit onto the outside of the knee joint, generates electricity through vibrations caused by plectra plucking energy-generating arms.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalSmart Materials and Structures·DateJun 14, 2012

Jellyfish inspires latest ocean-powered robot

Researchers from Virginia Tech have created a robotic jellyfish named Robojelly that mimics the natural movements of a real jellyfish. The robot is powered by chemical reactions taking place on its surface, fueled by hydrogen and able to regenerate fuel from its surroundings.

SourceIOP Publishing·JournalSmart Materials and Structures·DateMar 20, 2012

Ozone treated water v. lethal microbial material

A University of Alberta research team discovered that ozone-treated water can eradicate infectious proteins from cattle brain matter, providing a potential solution for decontaminating wastewater and sterilizing neurosurgical equipment. This breakthrough technique offers improved prion removal methods in meat processing plants and surg...

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalApplied and Environmental Microbiology·DateMar 2, 2012

New nanostructure-based process will streamline production of magnetic materials

Scientists at the University of Massachusetts Amherst have developed a simplified method to create ordered magnetic materials using nanostructures, achieving room-temperature ferromagnetism with fewer steps than before. The process uses block copolymers to confine magnetic particles, inducing stronger interactions and yielding stable m...

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 27, 2011

DFG establishes 4 new research units

The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) has approved four new research units focused on novel synthesis methods in chemistry, quantum diamonds, minimally invasive surgical procedures in medicine, and economic mechanisms in firms and markets. The Research Units will receive a total of 10.2 million euros over three years.

Supercomputer unravels structures in DVD materials

A team of researchers used the Jülich supercomputer to unravel the structures of DVD materials, revealing a new understanding of the read and write processes. The study provides insight into the rapid phase change mechanisms, which could lead to improved storage materials with longer life, larger capacity, or shorter access times.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 9, 2011