Add BrightSurf on Google Email

How ultrathin polymer films can be used for storage technology

Scientists from Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg discovered that precisely applied mechanical pressure can improve the electronic properties of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) films. The team used atomic force microscopy to control and reorient electrical charges in the material, enabling stable nano-scale structures with high ...

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2022

Advances in the design and manufacturing of novel freeform optics

Freeform optics have revolutionized the way we approach precision optical systems, enabling superior imaging in compact packages. Researchers have summarized the present state of art in advances, design methods, manufacturing, metrology, and applications. Key challenges include standard definitions, optimization complexities, and measu...

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJul 7, 2022

Physicists see electron whirlpools for the first time

Researchers at MIT and Weizmann Institute of Science visualize electron vortices in ultraclean tungsten ditelluride, confirming theoretical predictions. The observation could lead to more efficient next-generation electronics by reducing energy dissipation.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJul 6, 2022

NREL analysis highlights strategies beyond recycling to bolster circular economy for solar and battery technologies

The study reveals alternative strategies such as reducing virgin materials, reusing products, and extending product life spans to build sustainable product life cycles. Key challenges remain in developing PV and battery recycling methods, with current research focusing on lab-scale methods.

SourceDOE/National Renewable Energy Laboratory·JournalJournal of the Air & Waste Management Association·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 28, 2022
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Advances in lithium niobate photonics

Lithium niobate photonics has developed rapidly, enabling compact devices with high performance. Thin film lithium niobate (TFLN) structures have shown significant improvements in refractive index contrast, paving the way for more integrated photonic devices.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJun 23, 2022
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Boron nitride nanotube fibers get real

Researchers at Rice University have successfully created the first heat-tolerant, stable fibers from boron nitride nanotubes using a wet-spinning process. The fibers assemble themselves into liquid crystals, making them easier to process and suitable for large-scale applications in aerospace, electronics, and energy-efficient materials.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 23, 2022

Researchers develop the world's first ultra-fast photonic computing processor using polarization

Scientists at the University of Oxford have created a new type of computing processor that uses light to process information, achieving speeds faster than traditional electronics. By leveraging multiple polarisation channels, the researchers increased computing density by several orders of magnitude, paving the way for more efficient p...

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 15, 2022

A biological super glue from mistletoe berries?

Researchers discovered mistletoe viscin can be stretched into thin films or assembled into 3D structures, showing its potential as a wound sealant or skin covering. The material's reversible adhesive qualities make it highly versatile for diverse applications.

SourceMcGill University·JournalPNAS Nexus·DateJun 14, 2022

Intersecting light beams key in transformative 3D printer potential

Researchers at Queensland University of Technology have developed a new method for controlling chemical reactions using intersecting light beams, paving the way for faster and more efficient 3D printing. This technology enables the simultaneous activation of multiple molecules, leading to the formation of solid materials.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 5, 2022

A sunlight-driven “self-healing” anti-corrosion coating

A new 'self-healing' anti-corrosion coating has been developed, which can repair microcracks and protect metal from erosion under solar irradiation. The coating's performance is verified to be maintained above 99% regardless of the repair, making it suitable for outdoor facilities.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalFrontiers of Chemical Science and Engineering·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 27, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

New light-powered catalysts could aid in manufacturing

Researchers at MIT have designed a new type of photoredox catalyst that can be used to coat plastic tubing and perform chemical transformations on reactants as they flow through the tube. This breakthrough could enable the use of light-driven reactions in manufacturing processes, increasing efficiency and reducing waste.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 27, 2022

Korea Maritime and Ocean University scholars find key to reducing defects in multimaterials

Researchers from Korea Maritime and Ocean University have developed a way to synthesize high-performance functionally graded materials with minimized defects. By controlling the mixing gradient of component materials, they improved mechanical properties and eliminated interfacial cracks.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalJournal of Materials Research and Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2022

How to build an ‘explainable AI’ framework to speed up the innovation process

A team from the University of Missouri is using artificial intelligence to accelerate the discovery process in materials science. By integrating machine learning algorithms and AI into traditional laboratory processes, they aim to reduce time and cost while increasing the rate of material development. Associate Professor Derek T. Ander...

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·DateMay 17, 2022

Effectively removing emerging contaminants in wastewater treatment plants

Researchers have identified efficient technologies to remove endocrine disruptors from wastewater, including ozonation and adsorption with activated carbon. These methods can be added to existing treatment plants, improving performance without major changes.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalEnvironmental Research·DateMay 12, 2022

A fast and accurate innovative imaging technique to monitor modern semiconductor devices

Researchers at Samsung have developed a novel approach to inspect critical dimensions of semiconductor devices, improving speed and resolution. The new 'line-scan hyperspectral imaging' (LHSI) technique offers faster measurements with high spatial resolution, outperforming existing methods.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Micro/Nanopatterning Materials and Metrology·DateApr 21, 2022
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Engineers enlist AI to help scale up advanced solar cell manufacturing

A new machine learning-based system developed by MIT and Stanford researchers enables the rapid development of optimized production methods for perovskite-based solar cells. The system has already led to the manufacturing of cells with an energy conversion efficiency of 18.5 percent, a competitive level for today’s market.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalJoule·DateApr 15, 2022

Graphene gets enhanced by flashing

Rice University researchers have developed a customizing method for producing doped graphene with tailored structures and electronic states. The doping process adds elements to the 2D carbon matrix, making it suitable for use in nanodevices such as fuel cells and batteries.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 31, 2022

Tracking real-time atomic movement between crystal grains in metals

Scientists at Georgia Institute of Technology observe unprecedented atomic processes that dictate mechanical behavior in metals. They develop novel methods to visualize grain boundary sliding, revealing previously unknown movements and accommodating transferred atoms through adjusting grain boundary structures.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·TypeObservational study·DateMar 22, 2022

Could we make cars out of petroleum residue?

Researchers at MIT have developed a way to create lightweight fibers out of petroleum residue, offering advantages over traditional carbon fiber materials. The new process uses heavy waste material left over from refining, reducing production costs and enabling the creation of load-bearing applications.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateMar 18, 2022
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Celebrating Singapore’s first two artworks in space

Two Singapore-designed artworks are orbiting the Earth on the ISS as part of Moon Gallery, a project consisting of 64 artworks from around the world. The artworks were successfully launched into space and will come back to Earth after 10 months, allowing scientists to study their behavior in microgravity.

SourceNanyang Technological University·DateMar 15, 2022

A new, inexpensive catalyst speeds the production of oxygen from water

Researchers at MIT have developed a new, inexpensive catalyst material that can produce oxygen from water, potentially replacing rare metals and reducing the cost of producing carbon-neutral fuels. The material, made of abundant components, allows for precise tuning and matches or exceeds the performance of conventional catalysts.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 25, 2022
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Guidance from Hungarian chemists shapes the catalysts of the future

Researchers from Eötvös Loránd University have created a more efficient method for producing catalysts, which can speed up chemical transformations and reduce environmental impact. This breakthrough could lead to faster drug development and improved pesticide production.

SourceEötvös Loránd University·JournalNature Catalysis·DateFeb 24, 2022

Basis for next-gen bioprocesses

Researchers at TUM have successfully produced succinic acid using the marine bacterium Vibrio natriegens, which has rapid growth and substrate uptake rates. The team is now working to optimize the process for industrial-scale production using renewable raw materials.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalMicrobial Biotechnology·DateFeb 23, 2022

NTU Singapore scientists develop long lasting anti-fogging coating for plastic surfaces that ‘self-cleans’

Scientists at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, have developed a durable coating that prevents fogging and 'self-cleans' under sunlight exposure. The coating shows excellent adherence to the plastic surface and maintains durability in tests, offering an attractive long-term solution for various applications.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalApplied Surface Science·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 22, 2022

World-first: Speed of sound used to measure elasticity of materials

Researchers at the University of Nottingham have developed a groundbreaking technology to measure the microscopic elasticity of materials. By analyzing the speed of sound across the material's surface, they can reveal the orientation and inherent stiffness of small crystals, which is essential for material performance.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalActa Materialia·DateFeb 15, 2022
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Rare earth elements await in waste

Rice University scientists have developed a method to extract rare earth elements from fly ash, bauxite residue, and electronic waste using flash Joule heating. This process improves yields and reduces the use of strong acids, making it a more sustainable solution for recycling these materials.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 9, 2022

Towards self-sensing soft robots with electrochemically driven pumps

A team of researchers from Shibaura Institute of Technology has developed a transducer powered by electrochemical reactions to drive fluid pumps without cumbersome parts in soft robots. The ECDT enables self-sensing technology, enhancing the multifunctionality of soft robots and allowing for miniaturization.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

Controlling how “odd couple” surfaces and liquids interact

Researchers at MIT have developed a method to control the interaction between liquids and solids, allowing for the creation of surfaces with high or low wettability. This breakthrough has potential applications in various industries, including thermal management, protective coatings, and heat pipes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 17, 2022
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Organic aggregates: new insights on white light

Research reveals organic aggregates can emit polychromic and white light with high efficiency, opening up new avenues for OLEDs and encryption. However, more work is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanisms and improve performance.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJan 11, 2022

Shellac for printed circuits

Scientists have created a versatile carbon-loaded shellac ink suitable for disposable printed electronics. The ink achieves high electrical conductivity while maintaining stability and biodegradability. Its practical applications include conductive tracks and sensor elements in sustainable devices.

SourceSwiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (EMPA)·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 20, 2021

UMass Lowell scientist pioneers new class of semiconductors

A new class of faster and more powerful semiconductors is being developed by UMass Lowell scientists to enhance wireless communication and digital imaging. The $1.7M NSF project aims to improve infrared optoelectronic devices, enabling better intracellular imaging, night vision, and quantum and 5G communication.

SourceUniversity of Massachusetts Lowell·DateDec 16, 2021
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

NTU Singapore scientists give new lease of life to e-waste plastics

Researchers at NTU Singapore have developed a new use for e-waste plastics by repurposing them as an alternative to laboratory cell culture containers. The team found that over 95% of human stem cells seeded on e-waste plastics remained healthy after a week, comparable to cells grown on conventional plates.

SourceNanyang Technological University·JournalScience of The Total Environment·DateDec 13, 2021

Making solar energy even more sustainable with light-powered technology

A new process has been identified to accelerate the use of low-cost materials, transforming the energy sector with potential to replace silicone-based solar panels. The dynamic dimeric copper complexes offer a novel combination of fast charge transport and efficient redox mechanisms.

SourceNewcastle University·JournalChem·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 16, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Magnetic material 3D-printed from nonmagnetic powder

Researchers at Skoltech and their colleagues have successfully created a magnetic material by 3D printing a gradient alloy from nonmagnetic powders. The resulting alloy exhibits ferromagnetic properties, opening up potential applications in machine engineering, such as electrical motors.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalJournal of Materials Processing Technology·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2021

Innovative design of titanium alloy with supreme properties by 3D printing

Researchers from City University of Hong Kong created a new titanium-based alloy using additive manufacturing, boasting unprecedented structures and properties. The alloy exhibits high tensile strength, excellent work-hardening capacity, and is up to 40% lighter than stainless steel, making it suitable for various structural applications.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 22, 2021

Under arrest: Using nanofibers to stop brain tumor cells from spreading

A team of researchers from Japan has developed a platform using nanofibers to capture and control the migration of brain tumor cells, including glioblastoma multiforme. The study found that varying fiber densities can slow or speed up cell movement, leading to the creation of 'cell traps' that can restrict tumor cell growth.

SourceUniversity of Fukui·JournalACS Applied Bio Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 21, 2021

Accelerating the discovery of new materials for 3D printing

Researchers at MIT develop a data-driven process using machine learning to optimize new 3D printing materials with multiple characteristics. The system lowers costs and lessens environmental impact by reducing chemical waste and suggesting unique chemical formulations that human intuition might miss.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·DateOct 15, 2021
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Army backs bid to ‘flash’ waste into useful materials

The Army has pledged $5.2 million to Rice University's research on flash Joule heating, a process that turns waste into graphene and other valuable materials. The technology can recover precious metals from electronic waste and toxic metals from contaminated soil.

SourceRice University·DateSep 30, 2021

New world record in materials research - X-ray microscopy with 1000 tomograms per second

Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin have achieved a new world record in materials research by using X-ray microscopy to create 1000 three-dimensional images per second. This allows for the non-destructive study of fast processes in materials, enabling researchers to gain insights into material properties and behavior.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2021

Bringing real-time, fine-scale, subsurface quality control to 3D printing

Researchers from Osaka University introduced a non-contact quality control technology to 3D printing by detecting fine-scale defects below the surface of 3D-printed metal assemblies. They used laser ultrasonics to uncover small defects that are frequently difficult to image.

SourceOsaka University·JournalUltrasonics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2021

Microbial plant bioprocessing – what can we learn from the cow?

Microbiologists at Stellenbosch University suggest utilizing the rumen microbiome in anaerobic digestion processes to break down organic waste into its building blocks. The aim is to produce high-value products such as industrial important organic acids and bioplastics.

SourceStellenbosch University·JournalCatalysts·TypeLiterature review·DateSep 20, 2021

New substance classes for nanomaterials: Nano spheres and diamond slivers made of silicon and germanium

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt and Bonn have synthesized molecular nano spheres made of silicon atoms, known as silafulleranes, which can encapsulate chloride ions. The discovery of these new compounds may lead to improved applications in electronics, solar cells, and batteries.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 2021
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Eco-friendly process for synthesizing organic materials developed for high-performance materials industry

Researchers at CeMM have developed an eco-friendly process to synthesize organic materials using water instead of toxic solvents, achieving cost savings of up to 25% and improving material properties. The process involves heating molecules in water under pressure to create high-performance materials with unique structures and properties.

SourceCeMM Research Center for Molecular Medicine of the Austrian Academy of Sciences·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateSep 7, 2021

Mining waste could be used as an ingredient for cheaper hydrogen fuel production

Researchers have discovered a way to use mining waste as part of a potential cheaper catalyst for hydrogen fuel production. The new catalyst triggers water splitting reactions using aluminosilicate minerals found in mining waste, which could lead to lower production costs and increased efficiency.

SourceQueensland University of Technology·JournalAdvanced Energy and Sustainability Research·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 7, 2021

New research advances clean energy solutions

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a synthetic diiron-containing porphyrin that can efficiently catalyze the conversion of radiant energy from the sun into chemical energy. This breakthrough has potential applications in creating non-fossil-based fuels and electrochemical cells for renewable energy storage.

SourceArizona State University·JournalChemElectroChem·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 2, 2021

Best of both worlds: Updating the chemical process to remove organic pollutants from water

Researchers from India and Saudi Arabia have combined oxidation and photocatalysis to create a heterogeneous photo-Fenton system that degrades phenols at higher rates than individual approaches. The system is highly photostable and reusable, making it promising for practical applications in wastewater purification.

SourceShoolini University·JournalJournal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 1, 2021

Development of Cd-Free Quantum Dot Synthesis Technology for overcoming the limitations of existing technology

Prof. Jong-Soo Lee's team creates green-emitting Cd-Free quantum dots with high color reproduction performance, suitable for HDR in ultra-high definition displays. The material has higher color purity and photostability than other luminescent materials.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalChemistry of Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Layered graphene with a twist displays unique quantum confinement in 2-D

Scientists detected electronic and optical interlayer resonances in bilayer graphene by twisting one layer 30 degrees, resulting in increased interlayer spacing that influences electron motion. This understanding could inform the design of future quantum technologies for more powerful computing and secure communication.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 23, 2021

On the road to faster and more efficient data storage

Researchers have discovered a way to induce magnetic waves in antiferromagnets using ultrafast laser pulses, potentially leading to faster and more efficient data storage. This technology could endow materials with new functionalities for energy-efficient and ultrafast data storage applications.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateAug 17, 2021

Harnessing sunlight to fuel the future through covalent organic frameworks

Researchers highlight the potential of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) in solar-to-fuel production, converting sunlight into hydrogen and other fuels. COF-based photocatalysts have shown promising properties, including improved catalysis and electron delocalization, making them a viable solution for future energy needs.

SourceShoolini University·JournalCoordination Chemistry Reviews·TypeLiterature review·DateAug 12, 2021

Rice expert: Using carbon is key to decarbonizing economy

Pasquali proposes splitting hydrocarbons to produce clean hydrogen energy and solid carbon materials, which could replace materials with large carbon footprints. This transition would generate robust growth in manufacturing jobs and improve production efficiency.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateAug 5, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Heterogeneous epitaxy of semiconductors targeting the post-Moore era

Researchers achieve continuous and flat nearly single-crystalline nitride films on amorphous glass substrate via van der Walls strategy. The development of this technology promises a universal method for improving the incorporation of Indium in III-nitrides.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2021

Eco-friendly plastic from cellulose and water

Göttingen University researchers have developed a new type of hydroplastic polymer called cellulose cinnamate (CCi) that can be molded using little more than water at everyday temperature and pressure. The bioplastic exhibits high quality mechanical properties, making it suitable for various applications.

SourceUniversity of Göttingen·JournalNature Sustainability·DateJul 22, 2021