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Towards indoor lighting-powered thin-film, flexible solar cells with piezophototronics

Ritsumeikan University researchers create a novel thin-film flexible piezoelectric-photovoltaic device that can generate electricity from indoor lighting. The device's performance is improved through strain-induced polarization in the ZnMgO layer, increasing open-circuit voltage and overcoming charge recombination issues.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalNano Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 8, 2022

Earth-abundant solar pixels found to produce hydrogen for weeks

Researchers have discovered a way to create devices that mimic natural photosynthesis, producing fuels like hydrogen instead of sugars. The breakthrough uses bismuth oxyiodide, a non-toxic semiconductor material that can produce clean hydrogen from water over weeks.

SourceSt. John's College, University of Cambridge·JournalNature Materials·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateJun 7, 2022

‘Fruitcake’ structure observed in organic polymers

An international team of researchers has observed a unique 'fruitcake' structure in an organic polymer, revealing variations in hardness at the nanoscale. This discovery could lead to the development of next-generation microelectronic and bioelectronic devices with improved flexibility and biocompatibility.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 2, 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.

Researchers develop a membrane that stabilises lithium batteries

A new membrane stabilizes lithium electrodes by regulating the ion electrodeposition process, leading to improved battery performance. The study demonstrates a significant step towards developing safer and more efficient lithium metal batteries.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalGreen Energy & Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 18, 2022

The way of water: Making advanced electronics with H₂O

A new method for creating key components of solar cells, X-ray detectors, and LEDs uses water to control the growth of phase-pure perovskite crystals. This approach allows for precise tuning of crystal structures at room temperature.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 16, 2022

Electronics can grow on trees thanks to nanocellulose paper semiconductors

Osaka University researchers have created a nanocellulose paper semiconductor with 3D network structures that can be tuned for use in various sustainable electronic devices. The treatment process allows for heat-induced conductivity without damaging the nanostructure, enabling flexible macro-scale structures and detailed designs.

SourceOsaka University·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 26, 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
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Illuminating perovskite photophysics

Scientists at KAUST have studied charge carrier behavior in perovskite thin films using laser pulses and terahertz radiation. They found that increased density of charge carriers narrows the energy gap for electrons to be excited by light, and charge carriers become more localized at higher densities.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 20, 2022

‘Dative epitaxy’: A new way to stack crystal films

Researchers have developed a novel method called 'dative epitaxy' for growing thin layers of crystals made from different materials on top of each other. This technique allows for the formation of special chemical bonds to fix crystal orientation, overcoming limitations of conventional and van der Waals epitaxial techniques.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 20, 2022
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

An efficient electrochemical intercalation method for high-yield production of TMD nanosheets

A research team from City University of Hong Kong has developed an efficient electrochemical intercalation method to produce high-yield mono- or few-layer transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) nanosheets. The new strategy offers a higher degree of control over lithium insertion and can be scaled up for industrial applications.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Protocols·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 7, 2022

New quantum dots for quantum networks

Researchers at Osaka University and National Research Council Canada create a gallium arsenide quantum dot that can trap individual electrons. The development could help advance the field of quantum networks by efficiently converting photons into electron spins.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJournal of Applied Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 7, 2022

In race to build quantum computing hardware, silicon begins to shine

Researchers at Princeton University have achieved an unprecedented level of fidelity in two-qubit silicon devices, paving the way for the use of silicon technology in quantum computing. The study's findings suggest that silicon spin qubits have advantages over other qubit types, including scalability and size limitations.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2022

A bright future: Seeking a third generation of better performing solar cells

Researchers propose a novel pathway to realizing hot carrier solar cells, which can exceed the typical efficiency limit on solar cells. The approach involves isolating hot carriers within higher energy valleys in semiconductors, reducing energy loss to heat.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateApr 5, 2022

Engineers pave way for next-gen deep ultraviolet lasers

Researchers at Cornell University have developed a high-quality crystal of aluminum nitride and created an optical cavity to trap emitted light, enabling the production of a deep-ultraviolet laser with exceptional precision. The breakthrough has significant implications for various applications, including sterilization, sensing, and ph...

SourceCornell University·JournalAIP Advances·DateApr 4, 2022
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.

Making a ‘sandwich’ out of magnets and topological insulators, potential for lossless electronics

Researchers create a quantum anomalous Hall insulator by stacking a ferromagnetic material between two 2D topological insulators, enabling room-temperature lossless transport. The new architecture could lead to ultra-low energy future electronics or topological photovoltaics.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 2, 2022

Growing quantum dots in a regular arrangement

Scientists from Ruhr-University Bochum have improved the manufacturing process for quantum dots by creating a targeted arrangement on a wafer. The team discovered that the density of quantum dots was distributed concentrically due to the coating process, resulting in high-quality structures.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 28, 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.

Light derails electrons through graphene

A team of scientists has discovered a way to bend electrons without applying a magnetic field by using circular polarized light in bilayer graphene. This breakthrough enables new sensing applications and opens up possibilities for infrared and terahertz sensing, medical imaging, and security applications.

SourceICFO-The Institute of Photonic Sciences·JournalScience·DateMar 24, 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.

Characterizing super-semi sandwiches for quantum computing

Researchers create a microscopic sandwich of an aluminium superconductor on top of an indium-arsenic semiconductor to probe quantum interactions in super-semi sandwiches. They developed a novel probing technique, paving the way for new applications like topological quantum bits based on Majorana zero modes.

SourceInstitute of Science and Technology Austria·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 21, 2022

‘Self-driving’ lab speeds up research, synthesis of energy materials

Researchers at NC State University have developed a 'self-driving lab' that uses artificial intelligence and fluidic systems to advance our understanding of metal halide perovskite nanocrystals. The technology can autonomously dope MHP nanocrystals, adding manganese atoms on demand, allowing for faster control over properties.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Intelligent Systems·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 16, 2022

A ‘zigzag’ blueprint for topological electronics

Researchers have confirmed a novel quantum topological material for ultra-low energy electronics, reducing energy consumption by a factor of four. The study reveals the potential of zigzag-Xene-nanoribbons to make topological transistors with robust edge states and low threshold voltage.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2022

In a first, researchers image the full structure of trapped excitons

For the first time, researchers have imaged the full structure of trapped excitons, a breakthrough that could lead to new semiconductor technologies. The study reveals detailed insights into the behavior of excitons, including their size, motion, and stability.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 8, 2022
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Predicting solar cell performance from terahertz and microwave spectroscopy

Researchers improve solar cell performance predictions by analyzing terahertz and microwave spectroscopy data, enabling more accurate assessments of material quality. This advancement can quickly test new semiconducting materials for their potential suitability.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2022

Development of semiconductor microchip that can detect prostate cancer markers with ultra-high sensitivity

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology developed a microchip capable of detecting ultra-low concentrations of prostate cancer antigens using flexible nanosheets. The chip's lower detection limit is comparable to that of large testing devices, enabling fast and accurate diagnosis.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalSensors·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2022

Surprising semiconductor properties revealed with innovative new method

A new method using a thin oxide film has revealed that oxygen impurities in germanium are responsible for a surprising effect, creating holes in the material and eclipsing its semiconducting properties. This discovery has broad implications for understanding the role of thin oxide films in future semiconductor design.

SourceDOE/Pacific Northwest National Laboratory·JournalPhysical Review Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 1, 2022

Increasing efficiency in two-terminal tandem solar cells

Researchers demonstrate a two-terminal tandem solar cell with enhanced efficiency through spectrum splitting, achieving a 5-6% gain in absolute efficiency. The design uses planar and Lambertian spectral splitters to effectively distribute sunlight among the top and bottom cells.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateFeb 17, 2022
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

GaN-based CMOS circuits make power integrated systems more efficient

Researchers developed GaN-based CMOS logic circuits that can reduce power consumption in power conversion systems by 20-30%. The technology offers improved thermal management and energy efficiency, making it suitable for high-performance applications like data centers and autonomous driving.

SourceKeAi Communications Co., Ltd.·JournalFundamental Research·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateFeb 10, 2022
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.

Single-molecule optofluidic microsensor with interface whispering gallery modes

Researchers at Peking University developed a microsensor that leverages whispering gallery modes to detect single DNA molecules with improved sensitivity. The interface mode outperforms traditional evanescent field-based sensors, offering ultra-small sample consumption and automatic analysis capabilities.

SourcePeking University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 8, 2022

NIST researchers resurrect and improve a technique for detecting transistor defects

Researchers at NIST have revived and improved the charge pumping method to detect single defects as small as one-tenth of a billionth of a meter. The new technique can indicate where defects are located in transistors, enabling accurate assessment of their impact on performance.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalApplied Physics Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 4, 2022

Guidelines to exploring nanoscale flexoelectricity via AFM tip pressing

A comprehensive guideline for exploring nanoscale flexoelectricity via AFM tip pressing has been developed by a joint team of researchers. The method allows for the control of flexoelectricity in nanometer-sized materials, showing potential applications as generators and actuators in nanoscale units.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalApplied Physics Reviews·DateFeb 2, 2022
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.

Roswell Biotechnologies demonstrates molecular electronics sensors on a semiconductor chip in peer-review paper

Roswell Biotechnologies has developed a molecular electronics sensor on a semiconductor chip, enabling real-time detection of single molecules for diverse applications including drug discovery, diagnostics, and DNA sequencing. The platform offers unlimited scalability in sensor pixel density and high resolution measurements.

SourceRoswell Biotechnologies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 24, 2022

Groundbreaking research produces record levels of strain in single-crystal silicon, which could lead to phones with smoke detector technology

The University of Surrey researchers have developed a method to generate up to 3.1% biaxial strain and 8.5% uniaxial strain in single-crystal silicon using ion implantation, which could lead to the development of germanium lasers and near-infrared sensors for smartphones.

SourceUniversity of Surrey·JournalPhysical Review Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 18, 2022

Mass production of revolutionary computer memory moves closer with ULTRARAM™ on silicon wafers for the first time

Researchers have successfully demonstrated ULTRARAM¼trade mark computer memory on silicon wafers for the first time, combining non-volatility with speed and energy-efficiency. The technology outperforms previous incarnations, offering data storage times of at least 1000 years and fast switching speeds.

SourceLancaster University·JournalAdvanced Electronic Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 6, 2022
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

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

Organic light emitting diodes operated by 1.5 V battery

Researchers have developed an efficient organic light-emitting diode (OLED) that can produce bright emission equivalent to a typical display using a 1.5-V battery. The OLED achieves a lower operating voltage than expected, with characteristics of charge transfer states at the interface being key to its efficiency.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 6, 2022

3D semiconductor particles offer 2D properties

Researchers at Cornell University have discovered that the junctures of 3D semiconductor particles' facet edges display 2D properties, which can boost solar energy conversion technologies. The unique electronic properties of these particles can be leveraged for photocatalytic processes.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 3, 2022

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

Soft semiconductors that stretch like human skin can detect ultra-low light levels

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology created soft flexible photodetectors that are up to 200% stretchable and can detect fainter light levels than conventional devices. The breakthrough material has potential applications in medical wearable sensors, implantable devices, and intelligence systems.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateDec 15, 2021

How to transform vacancies into quantum information

Scientists have made a breakthrough in controlling the formation of vacancies in silicon carbide, a semiconductor material. The team's simulations tracked the pairing of individual vacancies into a divacancy and discovered the optimal temperatures for creating stable divacancies. This discovery could lead to highly sensitive sensors an...

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 15, 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.

Negative capacitance in topological transistors could reduce computing’s unsustainable energy load

Researchers have discovered that negative capacitance in topological transistors can switch at lower voltage, potentially reducing energy losses. This new design could help alleviate the unsustainable energy load of computing, which consumes about 8% of global electricity supply.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 15, 2021

UTEP receives $917K grant to advance semiconductor technology

The University of Texas at El Paso has received a $917,000 grant from the Air Force Office of Scientific Research to develop advanced materials for national defense, power electronics, and security. UTEP students will perform cutting-edge research on gallium oxide-based semiconductors.

SourceUniversity of Texas at El Paso·DateDec 15, 2021

Magnetic Tunnel Junction Technology for the Angstrom Semiconductor Era

A research group at Tohoku University has successfully engineered relaxation time to achieve fast switching in sub-five-nm magnetic tunnel junctions, reaching 3.5 ns. This breakthrough enables the development of STT-MRAM-based semiconductor ICs with improved performance and power consumption.

SourceTohoku University·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 14, 2021

"Crazy" light emitters: Physicists see an unusual quantum phenomenon

Physicists from the Technische Universität Dresden have confirmed an unusual movement of light-emitting particles in atomically-thin semiconductors. Excitons seem to move in opposite directions at the same time, a behavior previously known only for individual electrons.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateDec 14, 2021

The Wikipedia of perovskite solar cell research

A new database has been launched to systematically record findings on perovskite semiconductors, featuring over 42,000 individual data sets and analysis tools for interactive exploration. The FAIR principles guide the preparation of the data, enabling easy searching with modern algorithms and artificial intelligence.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalNature Energy·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 13, 2021
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Polariton parametric oscillator in perovskite microcavity

Researchers have developed a room-temperature perovskite polariton parametric oscillator, enabling scalable and low-threshold nonlinear devices. This breakthrough offers possibilities for the development of cost-effective and integrated polaritonic devices.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 9, 2021

Transforming materials with light

Scientists create a process called 'coherent optical engineering' that can dramatically change the properties of materials without generating heat. The breakthrough uses lasers to alter electron energy levels in a way that is reversible and free from unwanted heating.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 8, 2021

Intelligent transistor developed at TU Wien

Scientists at TU Wien have developed a novel germanium-based transistor with the ability to perform different logical tasks, offering improved adaptability and flexibility in chip design. This technology has potential applications in artificial intelligence, neural networks, and logic circuits that work with more than just 0 and 1.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 1, 2021

Transparent electrodes without the damage

A KAUST-led team reviewed strategies for mitigating damage to transparent electrodes in optoelectronic components. The team identified buffer layers as a potential solution, with strengths and weaknesses of different materials and techniques for creating them.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalMatter·DateNov 30, 2021
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.

“Magic wand” reveals a colorful nano-world

Researchers from UC Riverside developed a revolutionary imaging technology that compresses light into a nanometer-sized spot, allowing for unprecedented 6-nanometer color imaging of nanomaterials. This advance improves the study of unique properties and potential applications in electronics and other fields.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 25, 2021

A seemingly unattainable energy transition

Scientists have made a groundbreaking discovery by exciting an unattainable energy transition in an artificial atom using laser light. The radiative Auger process allowed them to stimulate electrons to emit energy and transfer it to another electron, achieving a seemingly impossible transition.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 24, 2021

Using the principle behind coffee ring effect in quantum dot arrays

Researchers at POSTECH develop a new method for arranging quantum dots, resulting in display panels with improved resolution. The technique uses the coffee ring effect to assemble QDs in specific areas, reducing manufacturing costs and increasing brightness.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateNov 24, 2021

Mystery of high performing novel solar cell materials revealed in stunning clarity

Perovskite materials have emerged as promising alternatives to crystalline silicon for producing solar panels. Despite defects that reduce performance, perovskites show impressive efficiency levels comparable to silicon alternatives. Researchers used multimodal microscopy methods to visualize and explain the complex interactions betwee...

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 22, 2021
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.

Plumbing the depths: Defect distribution in ion-implanted SiC diodes

Aluminum implantation doping creates defects many layers deeper than the implantation site, affecting conductivity modulation and specific on-resistance. Researchers found that ion implantation defects penetrate up to 20 µm from the active region, requiring processing at least this distance away.

SourceNagoya Institute of Technology·Journalphysica status solidi (b)·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 18, 2021

New project focuses on rare categories

The new project aims to bridge the gap between complex rare category analysis and state-of-the-art techniques. It will focus on developing explainable methods for detecting defective silicon wafers and severe complications among diabetes patients.

SourceUniversity of Illinois School of Information Sciences·DateNov 16, 2021