Microstructures
Articles tagged with Microstructures
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.
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.
Machine learning designs cheaper and rust-proof steel for 3D printing
A new class of ultra-high strength and ductility steel has been created using machine learning, achieving a rare balance of extreme strength and ductility. The resulting metal resists corrosion and degrades slowly in salt-water tests.
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.
Laser-etched ‘synthetic skin’ defies -50°c and weak sunlight to eliminate extreme ice
Researchers have created a dark, rubbery film that combines physical textures with light-absorbing nanotubes to keep surfaces ice-free at -50 °C. The film operates using a two-tier defense mechanism, providing both passive and active anti-de-icing capabilities.
How adding a microwave to a 3D printer makes flawless and heat-proof ceramics
Researchers used microwave-based 3D printing to create ceramic components with near-zero porosity and improved strength. The hybrid technique eliminates microscopic holes and traps gas bubbles, allowing for more bending force before breaking.
HKUST develops first AI toolkit “GrainBot” to automate quantitative microstructure analysis
A research team from HKUST developed GrainBot, an AI-enabled toolkit that automates the extraction and quantification of multiple microstructural features from microscopy images. This provides a systematic method for converting complex image information into quantitative data, accelerating materials discovery and development.
Microscopic mirrors for future quantum networks
The Harvard team developed a new microfabrication method to produce high-performance, curved optical mirrors with extremely smooth surfaces. The mirrors can control light at near-infrared wavelengths, enabling fast and efficient quantum networking.
Next-generation OLEDs rely on finetuned microcavities
Researchers at the University of Turku developed a unified theory guiding the design of more efficient and sustainable devices. The work reveals that squeezing light too tightly inside OLEDs can reduce performance, and optimal efficiency is achieved through a delicate balance of material and cavity parameters.
New plastic material could solve energy storage challenge, researchers report
Researchers have developed a novel polymer alloy material made from commercially available plastics that can handle unprecedented high temperatures and store more energy than traditional polymer capacitors. The new material has a dielectric constant of 13.5, allowing it to maintain its performance level from -148 F to 482 F.
When the softest carbon meets the hardest
Graphene and diamond hybrids show promising performance in electronic devices, sensors, and machining tests. However, major challenges remain, including producing large-area hybrids with consistent quality and understanding fundamental properties.
The hidden dangers of nanoplastics
Researchers have found that nanoplastics interact with environmental microbes, strengthening bacteria and antimicrobial-resistant pathogens. This can lead to challenges for water treatment and distribution systems. More research is needed to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying these interactions.
Seedcoat-inspired metal lets wings change shape on their own
Researchers at Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics created an active metal metamaterial that can bend and recover its shape, enabling aircraft wings to morph smoothly in flight. The material is lightweight, strong, and capable of adjusting its shape on demand.
Joint research validates new semiconductor etching process, achieving five times speed improvement
Researchers at Nagoya University and Tokyo Electron Miyagi Ltd. have developed a new semiconductor etching method that significantly reduces processing time and enhances energy efficiency. The process employs plasma etching with hydrogen fluoride at very low temperatures, eliminating the need for fluorocarbon gases.
When light teaches materials to self-organize: Writing nature-like 3D nanowrinkles
Scientists create natural surfaces with 3D nanowrinkles that control light, liquids, and living cells. The method uses laser polarization to guide the material's organization, enabling precise control over wrinkle formation and applications in bio-inspired surfaces and sensors.
A multi-material microrobot that can grasp, carry and release a cell
A team of researchers developed a multi-material, multi-module microrobot that can grab, carry and release microscopic objects. The microrobot features two parts: one reacts to pH changes to grip an object, while the other responds to magnetic fields for movement.
CityUHK pioneers breakthrough in 3DIC semiconductor packaging materials
A research team from City University of Hong Kong has developed innovative packaging material solutions using patented chemical additives to control material microstructures. This approach aims to improve the performance and production efficiency of advanced 3DIC packaging, enabling faster and more reliable connections in stacked chips.
New window insulation blocks heat, but not your view
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder have designed a new material called Mesoporous Optically Clear Heat Insulator (MOCHI) that can improve energy efficiency in buildings. The material, which is almost completely transparent, traps air through tiny pores to block heat exchange.
Vibrating tools carve custom functional surfaces with precision and flexibility
Scientists at Tsinghua University introduce a new technique to carve complex shapes on material surfaces, enabling more design freedom and efficiency in surface design. The method uses high-speed vibrations to create convex microstructures that can change how a surface interacts with its environment.
Breakthrough iron-based magnetic material achieves major reduction in core loss
A new iron-based magnetic material achieves a 50% reduction in core loss compared to initial amorphous materials, particularly in the high-frequency range. This breakthrough is expected to contribute to next-generation transformers and EV components, leading to more energy-efficient electric machines.
Intelligent hydrogel microstructures enable the precise application of force to cellular systems
Scientists at Max Planck Institute develop a novel lab-on-a-chip system using intelligent hydrogel structures to simulate spatially and temporally controlled mechanical perturbations of biological polymer networks. The system applies precise pressure forces to cellular microenvironments, enabling research into biomechanical interaction...
Refractory high-entropy alloys reimagined: from phase design to extreme-environment performance
Researchers are developing Refractory High-Entropy Alloys with improved strength and ductility through computation-led design and sophisticated microstructures. These advancements aim to overcome the traditional trade-off between mechanical properties.
Single-emitter white OLEDs could cut costs and chemicals in next generation lighting
Researchers at the University of Turku developed a new innovative approach to create colour-tunable white OLEDs. By using a standard sky-blue, metal-free molecule and reshaping its light using a microcavity, they eliminated the need for scarce indium tin oxide and complicated RGB colour mixing.
Printing with fields: Reprogramming matter at the smallest scales
Researchers explore Field-assisted Additive Manufacturing for micro/nano device fabrication, enabling targeted motion, cell growth, and flexible electronics. The technology holds promise for industries such as biomedical engineering and microrobotics.
A new post-processing route to improve tensile strength and ductility in 3d-printed alloys
A new post-processing route improves tensile strength and ductility in 3D-printed alloys by combining deep cryogenic treatment and laser shock peening. This method transforms the microscopic structure of 3D-printed metals, relieving internal stresses and enhancing mechanical resilience.
Health & Medical Environment & Energy Society & Lifestyle Technology & Space Rural & Agriculture Business & Politics More Tiny surface shapes steer cancer cells, paving the way for better lab tests and safer implants
Griffith University researchers have developed a method to tune cancer cell behavior using re-entrant microstructures, which can guide cell attachment, spreading, and multiplication. The study uses simple design rules to achieve mechanosensitive behaviors that emerged when curvature and confinement were introduced.
Innovative transistors for quantum chips
Researchers at TU Wien developed a new form of doping called modulation acceptor doping (MAD) that improves conductivity without incorporating foreign atoms. This technology enables faster switching times, lower power consumption, and better performance in quantum chips.
New light-powered motor fits inside a strand of hair
Scientists at the University of Gothenburg have developed the smallest on-chip motor in history, capable of fitting inside a human hair. The new motor uses laser light to set gears in motion, enabling microscopic machines that can control light and manipulate small particles.
First multi-layer, reconfigurable batteries that can bend, adapt, and tune their own voltage
Researchers develop flexible batteries with internal voltage regulation using liquid metal microfluidic perfusion and plasma-based reversible bonding techniques. This technology addresses limitations of traditional rigid batteries.
Breakthrough in atomic-level etching of hafnium oxide, a promising material for advanced semiconductors
Researchers successfully etched hafnium oxide films at atomic-level precision and smoothness without halogen gases. The new method uses nitrogen and oxygen plasmas to form volatile byproducts, resulting in reduced surface roughness and improved device performance.
Mixing metals, maximizing performance: recent advances on additive manufacturing of heterogeneous/gradient metallic materials
Researchers are making progress in overcoming technical hurdles to create layered structures, continuous gradients, and fully three-dimensional architectures with programmable material variation. Optimized laser parameters and build sequences can enhance strength, control heat flow, and improve energy absorption.
Smart biosensors that bend, stretch, and sense
Researchers developed flexible biosensors that detect sweat pH, electrolyte levels, and EMG signals simultaneously, providing continuous and accurate feedback. These HMS-based sensors offer superior stretchability, signal fidelity, and multiparameter monitoring, meeting the growing demands of digital health technologies.
Designing DNA nanostructures to create deformable and controllable biomolecular condensates
Newly developed DNA nanostructures form flexible, fluid, and stimuli-responsive condensates without chemical cross-linking. These findings pave the way for adaptive soft materials with potential applications in drug delivery, artificial organelles, and bioengineering platforms.
Spin-free “cork-skin” fibers turn mulberry bark into antibacterial, recyclable textiles
Scientists have developed high-performance textile fibers from invasive paper-mulberry bark using a simple, scalable route. The coated fibers exhibit excellent tensile strength and antimicrobial properties, outperforming traditional materials like cotton.
Metal-free supercapacitor stack delivers 200 volts from just 3.8 cm³
Researchers developed a new method for building powerful, compact energy storage devices using thin-film supercapacitors without metal parts. The device can output 200 volts, equivalent to powering 100 LEDs for 30 seconds or a 3-watt bulb for 7 seconds.
Novel approach reduces alloy microstructure prediction from years to minutes
Researchers developed a novel computational approach that predicts alloy microstructures in minutes, compared to years. The new model streamlines older approaches and avoids the 'curse of dimensionality', enabling rapid and accurate calculations of solidification and alloy microstructures.
AI shortens the development time of new materials
An AI model developed by Ehsan Ghane at the University of Gothenburg can predict the durability and strength of woven composite materials, reducing development time. The model integrates material laws to make extrapolations outside training data, enabling better understanding of material behavior.
Cool science: Researchers craft tiny biological tools using frozen ethanol
University of Missouri scientists have developed an ice lithography technique that etches small patterns onto fragile biological surfaces without damaging them. The method uses frozen ethanol to protect the surface and apply precise patterns.
SwRI receives $3.2 million DARPA contract to predict life of AM components
Researchers will use sensors and software to predict AM part lifespan, enabling cost savings and extending part life. The project aims to improve Darwin software to provide detailed insights into manufacturing processes.
A new path to understanding black holes
Physicists have discovered a new theoretical framework called supermazes that redefine the concept of black holes, providing a more universal picture of their microstructure. Supermazes are based on string theory and offer a detailed portrait of the microscopic structure of brane black holes.
Doubling down on metasurfaces
A new bilayer metasurface, made of two stacked layers of titanium dioxide nanostructures, has been created by Harvard researchers. This device can precisely control the behavior of light, including polarization, and opens up a new avenue for metasurfaces.
Physics meets art: a new twist on interference patterns
Researchers at The University of Tokyo have discovered a previously unseen moiré pattern in tungsten ditelluride bilayers, featuring one-dimensional bands. The pattern occurs at specific twist angles and has important implications for the optoelectronic properties of materials.
New material gives copper superalloy-like strength
Researchers developed a Cu-Ta-Li alloy with exceptional thermal stability and mechanical strength, combining copper's conductivity with nickel-based superalloy-like properties. The alloy's nanostructure prevents grain growth, improving high-temperature performance and durability under extreme conditions.
BESSY II: Magnetic ‘microflowers’ enhance local magnetic fields
Researchers have developed a nickel-iron alloy metamaterial that can concentrate and locally enhance magnetic fields. By controlling the geometry and number of 'petals', the effect can be increased, making it suitable for improving the sensitivity of magnetic sensors.
Researchers develop novel biomimetic fabrication technique for flexible electronics such as wearable sensors and electronic skins
A research team at the University of Turku developed a novel biomimetic fabrication technique to replicate bioinspired microstructures found in plant leaf skeletons. The resulting surfaces offer superior flexibility, breathability, and transparency, making them ideal for next-generation flexible electronics.
Self-densified super-strong wood: a sustainable alternative to traditional structural materials
Researchers developed a novel processing technique to create super-strong, lightweight wood that surpasses natural wood's mechanical properties. The resulting self-densified wood boasts exceptional tensile strength, flexural strength, and impact toughness.
Breakthrough in materials science: AI reveals secrets of dendritic growth in thin films
A new AI model developed by Tokyo University of Science's researchers predicts dendritic growth in thin films, offering a powerful pathway for optimizing thin-film fabrication. The model analyzes morphology using persistent homology and machine learning with energy analysis, revealing conditions that drive branching behavior.
A lightweight flexible alloy for extreme temperatures
Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a Ti-Al-based superelastic alloy with exceptional strength and flexibility, operating from -269°C to +127°C. This breakthrough material holds significant potential for applications in space exploration and medical technology.
Toward high electro-optic performance in III-V semiconductors
New research at UC Santa Barbara illuminates a path to superior electro-optic performance in AlScN alloys by adjusting atomic structure and composition. The study found that precisely oriented layer structures and strain tuning can yield significant enhancements in electro-optic properties, potentially surpassing those of lithium niobate.
Perovskite solar cells: Thermal stresses are the key to long-term stability
Thermal stress is the key factor in degrading metal-halide perovskites used in solar cells. Researchers propose increasing crystalline quality and using buffer layers to improve stability.
Emboa Medical creates, validates novel catheter to improve stroke patients’ outcomes
Emboa Medical creates a microstructured catheter called TRAP, which mimics a boa constrictor's teeth arrangement to grab onto blood clots without tearing them. The TRAP design has shown significant benefits in removing clots on the first attempt and improving outcomes for stroke patients.
Researchers control metal microstructure for better 3D printing
Cornell researchers discover way to control metal solidification transformations by adjusting alloy composition, leading to improved strength and reliability of printed metal parts. The method involves disrupting column-like grain growth, significantly reducing grain size and improving yield strength.
Angkana Rüland receives Leibniz Prize
Angkana Rüland, a researcher at the Hausdorff Center for Mathematics, is honored with the prestigious Leibniz Prize for her work on microstructures and inverse problems. The award allows her to further develop her research group and pursue cutting-edge projects.
The biomechanics of the rose prickle
The rose prickle's curved tapering shape and microstructural density enable supreme damage resistance capabilities. Researchers propose that these features could be used to develop ultra-small anchoring tools for diverse applications.
Stevens INI receives funding to expand research on the neural underpinnings of bipolar disorder
Leila Nabulsi is expanding her research program to pinpoint brain pathways affected by bipolar disorder. She will leverage the ENIGMA consortium and advanced statistical methods to build a database of brain changes, potentially improving diagnosis and treatment.
3D printing breakthrough: Stronger, more ductile alloy for extreme environments
Researchers have developed an ultra-strong, ductile alloy using 3D printing technology, which combines the benefits of refractory metals like NbTiZr. The oxygen-doped blend creates a unique combination of strength and flexibility, making it ideal for aerospace and medical applications.
Porous dermal fillers show promise for diabetic wound treatment
Researchers developed porous dermal fillers that accelerate tissue healing and regeneration for diabetic wounds. The novel approach combining electrospinning and electrospraying technologies creates biocompatible microspheres that promote cell migration, granulation tissue formation, and neovascularization.
Innovating in the corners where atoms meet
Fadi Abdeljawad's team finds that triple junctions, where three nanocrystals meet, are key to maintaining stability and strength of materials. This discovery could lead to designing better nanocrystalline alloys for aerospace and energy industries.
Researchers at City University of Hong Kong reshape the understanding of grain boundaries
Grain boundaries, common defects in polycrystalline materials, can migrate unidirectionally without a net driving force, exhibiting directionality. This phenomenon, similar to the unidirectional rotation of a Brownian ratchet, challenges traditional views on grain boundary mobility.