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Rutgers physicists create new class of 2D artificial materials

A Rutgers-led international team of scientists has verified a 53-year-old theory on ferroelectric metals, creating a new class of two-dimensional artificial materials that exhibit ferroelectric-like properties at room temperature. These findings have the potential to spawn a new generation of multi-functional devices and applications.

SourceRutgers University·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 11, 2018

Earliest European evidence of lead pollution uncovered in the Balkans

New research reveals metal-related pollution began in the Balkans over 500 years before appearing in western Europe. The study provides a new perspective on metallurgy and economic change in the region, confirming the Balkans played a significant role in mineral exploitation during the Dark Ages and Medieval Period.

SourceNorthumbria University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 1, 2018
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.

Better, faster, stronger: Building batteries that don't go boom

Michigan Tech researchers explore lithium's mechanical properties to improve battery storage capacity and safety. Their findings highlight the importance of lithium's orientation-dependent elastic properties in controlling battery performance.

SourceMichigan Technological University·JournalJournal of Materials Research·DateMay 29, 2018

Controlled nano-assembly

Scientists have introduced a universal pH-regulated assembly method for DNA nanostructures, using ethylenediamine to control self-directed cohesions. This method enables the formation of various geometries without specific base sequences, expanding dynamic DNA nanotechnology applications.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateMay 23, 2018

High-capacity, rechargeable lithium batteries

Researchers created high-performance lithium metal electrodes with over 10 mAh cm-2 capacity and 98% efficiency. The innovative design enables reversible, dendrite-free battery operation and paves the way for future-generation high-energy batteries.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 14, 2018

New theory shows how strain makes for better catalysts

Researchers have developed a new theory to explain why stretching or compressing metal catalysts can make them perform better. The theory suggests that applying a strain to a catalyst's atomic lattice can tune its reactivity, enabling fine-tuning of catalyst performance throughout different reaction steps.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Catalysis·DateApr 20, 2018
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Ultra-powerful batteries made safer, more efficient

Researchers at the University of Delaware have made a breakthrough in mitigating dendrite formation in lithium metal batteries, enabling them to be used for electric vehicles. The new method uses porous materials to suppress dendrite growth, resulting in improved battery performance and safety.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 9, 2018

Reconsidering damage production and radiation mixing in materials

Researchers have developed two new equations to correct the Kinchin-Pease equation's limitations, providing accurate predictions of radiation damage in materials. The new equations consider athermal recombination and replacements-per-atom, improving the usable lifetime of materials in nuclear reactors and other environments.

SourceUniversity of Helsinki·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 15, 2018

Illinois researchers develop heat switch for electronics

Researchers at the University of Illinois have developed a new technology that can switch heat flows 'on' or 'off' using liquid metal droplets. This innovation has the potential to significantly improve system performance and reliability in electronics systems.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMar 8, 2018

Metal-free catalyst extends the range of ester synthesis

A team at Nagoya University developed a metal-free catalyst, tetramethylammonium methyl carbonate (TMC), that expands the substrate range of trans-esterification. TMC reacts with alcohols to form alkoxide ions, which attack esters to produce complex target esters in high yields.

SourceNagoya University·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateMar 5, 2018
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Super-adsorbent MOF to control humidity

Researchers at KAUST have developed a super-adsorbent metal-organic framework (MOF) that can adsorb water at high capacity and release it easily when humidity levels fall. This MOF has been shown to outperform existing materials in terms of capacity, reversibility, and cyclic performance.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalChem·DateFeb 5, 2018

Lifespan of fuel cells maximized using small amount of metals

KAIST researchers have developed a new technique to improve the chemical stability of electrode materials in solid oxide fuel cells. By employing a small amount of metals, they can extend the lifespan of these energy technology devices. This innovation has the potential to improve the long-term performance and durability of fuel cells.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalEnergy & Environmental Science·DateJan 17, 2018

Siberian chemists have improved hydrogen sensors

Scientists from Siberian Federal University and Nikolaev Institute of Inorganic Chemistry create active layers in hydrogen detectors using metal phthalocyanines and palladium membranes. This increases the sensor's sensitivity, enabling detection of hazardous gases and aiding in disease diagnosis. The researchers plan to further improve...

SourceSiberian Federal University·JournalInternational Journal of Hydrogen Energy·DateJan 17, 2018
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.

Battery research could triple range of electric vehicles

Researchers at the University of Waterloo have developed a new battery technology that uses lithium metal electrodes to increase energy storage capacity. The breakthrough enables electric vehicles to travel up to 600 kilometres on a single charge, three times the current range.

SourceUniversity of Waterloo·JournalJoule·DateDec 11, 2017

Planetesimal core formation through percolation

Melt drainage through percolation continues even with low melt fractions, suggesting all but 1-2% of melt can be drained. This process enables planetesimal core formation.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 4, 2017

Study shows how to get sprayed metal coatings to stick

MIT researchers discovered that under some conditions, melted metal particles can actually prevent them from sticking to a surface. Instead, the particles bounce away and leave behind a solid bond when they resolidify.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 21, 2017

New database catalogues plants that soak up contamination

The Global Hyperaccumulator Database contains data on 721 species of plants capable of absorbing high amounts of metal compounds. The database aims to facilitate the identification and utilization of these hyperaccumulators for environmental cleanup, particularly in mining-affected areas.

SourceWiley·JournalNew Phytologist·DateNov 21, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

'Perfectly frustrated' metal provides possible path to superconductivity

Researchers at Ames Laboratory have discovered a metallic material, CaCo1.86As2, with a perfectly frustrated magnetic state that persists even at low temperatures. This finding offers a new pathway for studying frustrated magnets and their potential applications in quantum computing and high-temperature superconductivity.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateNov 9, 2017

Simple green synthesis is a breath of fresh air

Researchers at KAUST developed a solvent-free synthesis method for metal-sulfide nanoparticles using thiourea. The new method produces controllable composition and size of nanoparticles, with potential applications in electrical, optical, and chemical devices.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalParticle & Particle Systems Characterization·DateNov 6, 2017
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

New, simplified technique makes light metallic nanofoam

Researchers at UC Davis developed a simplified method to produce extremely low-density palladium nanofoams, which have potential applications in hydrogen fuel cells. The new technique achieves high loading capacity and excellent thermodynamic stability, making it an ideal candidate for industrial-scale use.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateNov 2, 2017

A new advanced forensics tool

A new non-destructive method using Raman spectroscopy has been demonstrated to make abraded serial numbers on polymers visible again. Researchers from INRS have successfully recovered erased information from polycarbonate samples without damaging the material.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateNov 1, 2017

Force field analysis provides clues to protein-ion interaction

The AMOEBA force field provides a detailed understanding of protein-ion interactions by incorporating quantum methods. The model distinguishes selective ion binding in calcium and magnesium ions, shedding light on their role in various biological processes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateOct 17, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Electroplating: The birth of a single nucleus caught in camera

Scientists at University of Bristol develop new approach to monitor early stages of electrodeposition with nanometer resolution. By detecting subtle changes in water structure, they can track the formation of a metallic nucleus in real time.

SourceUniversity of Bristol·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 17, 2017

A little tension yields enormous solar crystals

Scientists at KAUST and Oxford University have created a method to produce centimeter-scale, highly pure perovskite crystals by exploiting surface tension. This technique enables the growth of large-area perovskites without being limited to specific metal cations.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalACS Energy Letters·DateSep 26, 2017

2-D Electronics' metal or semiconductor? Both

Researchers at IBS developed first 2D field-effect transistor made of single material, overcoming efficiency limits of current 3D transistors. The new technique uses a polymorphic material, molybdenum telluride (MoTe2), to produce both metal and semiconductor components with low contact resistance.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 18, 2017
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.

Innovation could mean flexible rechargeable batteries for pacemakers

A flexible supercapacitor with a longer cycle life has been designed by Queen's University Belfast researchers, which could power body sensors and improve patient comfort. The device is made of non-flammable electrolytes and organic composites, safe for the human body.

SourceQueen's University Belfast·JournalGreen Chemistry·DateSep 13, 2017

Method controls whether freezing droplets bounce off or stick

Researchers at MIT have found a new way to control the adhesion of freezing droplets on surfaces by manipulating their thermal properties. This discovery could lead to improved coatings in industries such as 3-D printing and turbine blade manufacturing.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 11, 2017

Supercharging silicon batteries

Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) scientists have designed a novel silicon-based anode to provide lithium batteries with increased power and better stability. The new anode, featuring nanostructured layers of silicon, improves the battery's ability to charge and deliver energy over time.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalAdvanced Science·DateSep 6, 2017
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.

Researchers identify cheaper, greener biofuels processing catalyst

Researchers at the University of Illinois have identified a new, cheaper, and more environmentally friendly method for processing bio-oil into liquid fuel. The catalyst uses common bacteria and recovered metal palladium, which can be sourced from waste materials, reducing production costs and environmental impact.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalFuel·DateAug 25, 2017

Magnetic fields turn up the heat on bacterial biofilms

A study published in Scientific Reports shows that high-frequency alternating magnetic fields can be used to destroy bacteria encased in a slimy 'biofilm' growing on artificial joints. The treatment increased the effectiveness of antibiotic treatment, reducing the need for multiple surgeries and weeks of IV antibiotics.

SourceUT Southwestern Medical Center·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 8, 2017

MOF keeps humidity in the Goldilocks zone

Researchers have developed a metal-organic framework (MOF) material that can regulate humidity levels within a specific range. The material, Y-shp-MOF-5, takes up water in dry air but releases it when the relative humidity falls below 45%. This autonomous behavior maintains optimal humidity levels between 45-65%.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateAug 6, 2017
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

CU Boulder engineers develop thoroughly modern magnesium process

Researchers at CU Boulder have revamped a World War II-era magnesium production process that requires half the energy and produces a fraction of the pollution compared to current leading methods. The breakthrough could improve the production of strong, lightweight metal used in various applications.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·DateAug 4, 2017

Physicians evaluate new device to test for cervical cancer

Physicians have evaluated a new fabric-based endocervical curettage device, which uses a hook to collect tissue samples. The device reduces discomfort and increases the number of adequate specimens, leading to better results and fewer repeat biopsies.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of Lower Genital Tract Disease·DateAug 2, 2017

Superluminous supernova marks the death of a star at cosmic high noon

A team of astronomers discovered a rare superluminous supernova in a distant galaxy 10 billion years ago. The brilliant explosion, one of the brightest ever recorded, occurred at cosmic high noon when the rate of star formation was at its peak.

SourceRoyal Astronomical Society·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 21, 2017
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

How do you build a metal nanoparticle?

A novel theory explains how metal nanoparticles form, revealing a balance between bond strength and ligand binding. This understanding enables the creation of more efficient and sustainable nanoparticle production processes for applications like biolabeling and targeted drug delivery.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 10, 2017

Piling on pressure solves enduring mystery about metal's makeup

Researchers solved a mystery about lithium's structure, revealing its atoms are arranged simply like oranges in a box, contrary to previous complex results. The study used high-pressure experiments and advanced quantum mechanics to accurately observe the material's fundamental properties.

SourceUniversity of Edinburgh·JournalScience·DateJun 22, 2017

MOFs provide a better way to remove water from gas

Researchers at KAUST developed a new fluorinated MOF that selectively adsorbs water to dry gas streams, achieving energy-efficient dehydration. The innovation requires half the energy input of conventional procedures, highlighting potential for huge efficiency savings in gas production and transport industry.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalScience·DateMay 18, 2017
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.

Electrochemical performance of lithium-ion capacitors

Researchers developed a novel approach to lithium-ion capacitors using internal short-circuiting, achieving high energy storage capacity. The pre-lithiated multiwalled carbon nanotube anode showed improved performance, enabling the devices to store approximately 5 times more energy than conventional EDLCs.

SourceWorld Scientific·JournalNANO·DateApr 21, 2017

New battery coating could improve smart phones and electric vehicles

Researchers at UC Riverside have discovered a new battery coating that stabilizes performance, eliminates dendrite growth, and increases the lifetime of lithium-metal anodes. The coating, made with methyl viologen, can enhance battery performance by three times compared to current standards.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateApr 17, 2017
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.

To e-, or not to e-, the question for the exotic 'Si-III' phase of silicon

Researchers at Carnegie Institution have synthesized pure samples of Si-III, a semiconductor with an extremely narrow band gap, narrower than diamond-like silicon crystals. This discovery may lead to unpredictable technological breakthroughs in fields like solar energy and electronics.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateApr 4, 2017
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.

The incorporation into the body of metals from the River Deba sediments is simulated

A recent study by the University of the Basque Country found that not all metals in sediments directly affect human health, but only a fraction can be incorporated into the body. The researchers simulated metal release in the gastrointestinal tract and found that urban waste water contributes to bioaccessible metals.

SourceUniversity of the Basque Country·JournalEcotoxicology and Environmental Safety·DateMar 20, 2017

Outcomes for Absorb stent acceptable at 1 to 2 years, with caveats

Patients receiving Absorb stent showed outcomes similar to those of Xience metal stents between years one and two, but elevated risk of adverse outcomes at two years in smaller vessels. The study highlights the importance of using appropriately sized vessels and refined procedural techniques for optimal results.

SourceAmerican College of Cardiology·DateMar 18, 2017

Researchers offer overview of composite metal foams and potential applications

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed composite metal foams with enhanced properties, including reduced armor-piercing bullet penetration and effective radiation shielding. The new data provides a comprehensive overview of the materials' performance in various tests, including high-speed impacts and cyclic loading.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Engineering Materials·DateMar 13, 2017