Articles tagged with Metals
A new study finds that warming climate is causing a doubling of copper, zinc, and sulfate concentrations in metal sulfide-rich watersheds in Colorado's mountains. The greatest increases are seen at high altitudes, where natural chemical weathering of bedrock is the source of rising acidity and metals.
Researchers discovered an alloy with exceptional strength and toughness across a wide temperature range, outperforming even cryogenic steels. The alloy's unique properties are attributed to the formation of rare kink bands that enable it to resist bending and fracture.
A new defect-ordered layered halide perovskite was discovered, shedding light on how order can emerge through defects in hybrid organic–inorganic compounds. The compound's optical bandgap increased with the concentration of ordered defects in the lattice, presenting a new strategy for tuning perovskite properties.
Volunteers collected nearly nine tonnes of marine litter from beaches across the Seychelles between 2019 and 2023. The clean-ups, led by the University of Plymouth, demonstrate the potential of citizen science to address marine pollution challenges.
Researchers developed a multifunctional drug delivery system that can carry both hydrophilic and hydrophobic compounds, overcoming previous limitations in conventional methods. The system utilizes switchable peptide-stabilized emulsions, allowing for precise release of drugs in tumor cells.
Researchers at Doshisha University have developed a new method to electrochemically synthesize acetylene from carbon dioxide and water, using high-temperature molten salts and metal carbides. This approach offers advantages over conventional synthesis pathways, including the direct use of CO2 as feedstock and reusable electrodes.
Researchers from Tsinghua University propose a novel process to convert cutting chips into unique microstructures, transforming waste into valuable materials. The finding has potential applications in enhanced heat transfer, anti-icing, and antibacterial properties.
A research team developed an anode protection layer to prevent random electrodeposition of lithium, promoting stable 'bottom electrodeposition' and reducing unnecessary consumption. The breakthrough results in all-solid-state batteries with stable electrochemical performance over extended periods using ultrathin lithium metal anodes.
A new study by the University of Sydney has found that adding molybdenum to steel reinforced with metal carbides enhances its ability to trap hydrogen. This discovery is a significant step towards solving the multi-billion-dollar problem of hydrogen embrittlement in steels.
The development of a compact microchip laser system paves the way for simple benchtop preparation and direct use of metal nanoparticles in catalytic reactions. The study reveals that the microchip laser exhibits high ablation efficiency despite having smaller pulse energy compared to conventional lasers, making it an attractive alterna...
Researchers developed a chemically protective cathode interlayer using amine-functionalized perylene diimide, which stabilizes perovskite solar cells. The novel solution-processed PDINN cathode interlayer achieved impressive performance with over 81% retention and record-high bias-free solar hydrogen production rate.
Researchers developed a carbon-based tunable metasurface absorber with an ultrawide, tunable bandwidth in the THz range. The absorber boasts high absorption efficiency and insensitivity to polarization angles, paving the way for advanced technological applications.
A new technique using superluminescent light projection can print metal nanostructures at 480 times the speed and 35 times the cost of current methods. This breakthrough has the potential to democratize nanoscale 3D printing, making it accessible to more researchers and industries.
Researchers use quantum chemical calculations to understand sodium's transformation into an insulator at high pressures. The study confirms theoretical predictions made by Neil Ashcroft and connects it with chemical concepts of bonding.
Researchers mapped medium- and high-entropy alloys' structure for the first time, identifying key factors that contribute to their unique combination of strength and flexibility. The study's findings could inform alloy design and unlock new properties in steel.
Researchers observe changes in water molecule movement near a metal electrode depending on the magnitude and polarity of the applied voltage. The study provides crucial insights into electrochemical reactions and paves the way for designing more efficient battery technologies.
Rice physicists find that a 'strange metal' quantum material exhibits greatly suppressed shot noise, suggesting unconventional charge transport mechanisms. The study provides direct empirical evidence for the idea that electricity may flow through strange metals in an unusual liquidlike form.
Researchers aim to identify contaminants in ash, soil, and surface waters from the Maui fire, posing risks to human health. The study will also help educate communities on the presence and risk of contaminants, informing prevention measures for future fires.
Physicists have directly observed the Kondo effect in a single artificial atom using a scanning tunnelling microscope. The team confirmed a decades-old prediction by validating their experimental data against theoretical models. This breakthrough paves the way for investigating exotic phenomena in magnetic wires.
Researchers at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University have developed a sensitive and robust pH sensor that can detect pH variation in just a few microliters of samples. The new sensor uses novel materials and methods to overcome the current method's limitations, which are not sensitive enough or fragile for commercial-scale use.
The study demonstrates experimentally that the electronic and mechanical properties of a metal are connected. Researchers measured lattice distortion as a function of applied stress in the superconducting metal strontium ruthenate, finding changes in mechanical stiffness corresponding to new electronic states becoming occupied.
Researchers develop a new migration strategy that enhances CO2 reduction to CO via reverse water-gas shift reaction in Ru/(TiOx)MnO catalysts. The approach boosts catalytic activity by 3.3 times and improves H-spillover for efficient hydrogen transportation.
A team of researchers from City University of Hong Kong and Shanghai Jiao Tong University has developed a novel aluminium alloy with unprecedented fatigue resistance using advanced 3D printing techniques. The new alloy, called NTD-Al, surpasses the fatigue strength of high-strength wrought Al alloys and conventional metals.
Recent progress in metallic powders characterization, preparation, and reuse for laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) enhances printing consistency and reduces costs. Novel cost-effective methods like fluidized bed and cold mechanically derived method are emerging to prepare powders.
Researchers at Purdue University detect unprecedented levels of alloy aerosols in the atmosphere, likely from spacecraft and satellites. The team found that nearly 10% of large sulfuric acid particles contained aluminum and other spacecraft metals.
Researchers used a unique X-ray technique to capture soundwaves' propagation in a diamond crystal, revealing ultrafast structural phenomena that were previously beyond scientific reach. The breakthrough enables real-time imaging of solid materials with unprecedented resolution and speed.
Researchers develop novel photoresist system with modified tannic acid to form metal patterns, offering applications in devices assembly. The method avoids poor stability and dispersion of metal nanoparticles, making it a promising approach for micro-nano metal pattern formation.
Researchers have developed a method to control the electronic character of graphene nanoribbons by making metal contacts using direct-write scanning tunneling microscopy. This precise technique allows for device functionality needed for transistor function, overcoming previous uncertainty with giant electrodes.
A hybrid catalyst made of zinc and copper produces critical fertilizer and cleans wastewater, reducing carbon footprint and supplying a potential revenue stream. The process involves converting carbon dioxide and waste nitrogen using the hybrid catalyst, achieving an optimal performance ratio.
Research at Columbia University's Mailman School of Public Health detected significant levels of metals in the blood and urine of marijuana users, suggesting that marijuana is a source of lead and cadmium exposure. Measurements reported by participants showed higher lead levels in blood and urine among exclusive marijuana users compare...
A study published in Science of the Total Environment found that biofiltration increased coho salmon hatchling survival by up to 87%, reducing mortality from stormwater runoff exposure. The method effectively removes contaminants, but implementation faces hurdles due to land requirements.
Researchers have discovered that smaller metal droplets resist freezing into glass for longer, even at lower temperatures. This finding has significant implications for understanding material properties and durability.
Scientists have developed a new liquid metal coating that can treat and kill bacteria, offering a potential solution to the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance. The coating, made from gallium liquid metal particles, has improved biocompatibility and low cytotoxicity, making it safe for human cells.
Researchers create biotissue-like rhythmic agglomerates using water and liquid metals, exhibiting aqueous properties and biorhythms. The unique capacity of liquid matter to generate biorhythms is revealed, opening opportunities for advanced soft robotic systems.
The research team produced a new strong, ductile, and sustainable titanium alloy through additive manufacturing, exhibiting better mechanical performance than traditional methods. This innovation addresses waste management issues in titanium alloy production, enabling recycling of off-grade sponge titanium.
A Michigan State University study found that women with endometriosis have higher cadmium levels in their urine compared to those without the diagnosis. The researchers analyzed data from over 41,000 participants and found a significant link between urinary cadmium concentrations and endometriosis prevalence.
A team of researchers at Texas A&M University is developing a new method for understanding metal behavior under extreme conditions using metal cutting, a traditional manufacturing tool. The process involves shearing or deforming the metal to extreme levels under high rates and can provide fundamental information on material strength an...
Research discusses challenges and future directions for porous metallic implant fabrication, focusing on microstructure, biocompatibility, and mechanical properties. The review aims to promote metabolite and nutrient exchange, bone ingrowth, and improved implant-tissue anchorage.
Scientists at Chalmers University of Technology have created a new method for removing mercury from concentrated sulphuric acid, reducing levels by more than 90%. This innovation could lead to reduced mercury emissions and the production of high-purity, non-toxic products in industries such as mining and metal refining.
A study found that truncating fins in liquid metal-based microchannel heat sinks increases flow rate, reducing coolant temperature and heat sink temperature. The expanded design achieves a maximum reduction of 36% in total thermal resistance for low channel aspect ratio microchannels.
Scientists review preparation techniques for copper matrix composites with ceramic particles, enhancing mechanical properties and thermal conductivity. The study highlights the importance of particle characterization, interfacial bonding, and advanced preparation methods to optimize composite performance.
Researchers have developed a groundbreaking photonic integrated circuit chip that combines light source, modulator, photodiode, waveguide, and Y-branch splitter on a single substrate. The GaN-on-silicon platform reduces fabrication complexity and cost, enabling compact and high-performing devices.
Researchers discovered a probiotic that can convert toxic mercury into less harmful forms, reducing neurological damage and improving iron absorption. The probiotic uses genes from a resistant bacteria to detoxify methylmercury, a neurotoxin found in fish-based diets.
Researchers at MIT have created a metal-free, Jell-O-like material that can conduct electricity similarly to conventional metals. The material is made into a printable ink, which the researchers patterned into flexible, rubbery electrodes.
Chronic exposure to low levels of contaminant metals through household items, air, water, soil, and food increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Monitoring environmental metal levels and testing for exposure are key steps to implement public health initiatives.
Research highlights chronic exposure to contaminant metals as a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Monitoring environmental metal levels and testing individuals can help implement public health initiatives.
Scientists have developed a technique for applying liquid metal to surfaces that don't easily bond with it, using force-responsive adhesion. The method allows for the creation of electronic 'smart devices' from everyday materials like paper and plastic.
Researchers at The University of Tokyo have developed a new atomic layer deposition (ALD) technique for depositing thin layers of oxide semiconductor materials, resulting in high carrier mobility and reliability. This breakthrough enables the production of devices with normally-off operation, high mobility and reliability.
Researchers from the University of Amsterdam have created a new class of materials that combine stiffness with vibration-absorbing properties. These 'buckled' materials have a wide range of potential applications across various scales, from aerospace to microscale designs.
Researchers from GIST have developed a hydrotropic-supporting electrolyte to enhance the solubility of organic redox molecules in aqueous systems. This improvement enables the creation of high-energy-density electrochemical capacitors with potential applications in redox flow batteries.
Researchers used x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to study the chemical profile of tantalum surface oxides, revealing different kinds of tantalum oxides at the surface. This discovery prompted a new set of questions on modifying interfaces to improve device performance and minimizing loss.
Researchers investigate whether pregnant mothers' exposure to toxic metals affects kidney development in their babies, which may set the stage for chronic kidney disease. The team aims to identify key combinations of metal mixtures that could have detrimental effects on developing kidneys.
Researchers have developed a solvent-free process to manufacture lithium-ion battery electrodes that are greener and cheaper than traditional methods. The new process produces electrodes that can charge faster, with a capacity of 78% in just 20 minutes.
Scientists have discovered a new method for producing pure hydrogen from renewable energy, a significant step towards a greener future. The breakthrough uses specialized techniques to understand how a catalyst works, enabling the creation of clean fuels like hydrogen.
Researchers at Brookhaven Lab used pulse radiolysis to study a key class of water-splitting catalysts, revealing the direct involvement of ligands in the reaction mechanism. The team discovered that a hydride group jumped onto the Cp* ligand, proving its active role in the process.
A large-scale study published in JAMA Neurology has demonstrated an association between trichloroethylene (TCE) exposure and the development of Parkinson's disease. Researchers compared health data from approximately 160,000 Navy and Marine veterans who served at Camp Lejeune or Camp Pendleton between 1975-1985, where TCE was used for ...
Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new procedure, SCRIBE, that enables precise printing of microdevices into existing materials. The technique uses multiphoton lithography to selectively modify regions of the material's interior and manufacture custom small-scale optical devices.
A new study by Tulane University found that five out of 60 beverages tested contained elevated levels of toxic metals above federal drinking water standards. Mixed-fruit juices and plant-based milks were more likely to contain these elements, highlighting the importance of moderation in consumption.
Researchers analyzed 90 samples of raw pheasant dog food and found that 77% exceeded the maximum residue level for lead in animal feed. The mean lead concentration was 34 times higher than in human-consumed pheasant meat, posing health risks to dogs, especially puppies.
Researchers have developed a method to extract valuable metals from old mining waste using microbes, reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 30%. This process also captures carbon dioxide from the air and stores it in the tailings as new minerals.