Nanotechnology

SNU researchers develop AI-driven inverse design to extend quantum-dot LED lifetime 40-fold

A technology has been developed that allows artificial intelligence to inversely determine process conditions for quantum-dot light-emitting diode devices. The technology roughly doubled efficiency and extended operational lifetime more than 40-fold when applied to actual devices.

Scientists realize stable "boron graphene" and uncover quantum liquid crystal state

Researchers from Tohoku University have created a stable version of boron graphene on the surface of a three-dimensional crystal, revealing a new quantum state. The discovery could lead to more energy-efficient electronic devices and unlock entirely new quantum phenomena.

Understanding textile structures by studying defect propagation

A mathematical framework based on knot theory characterizes knittability and classifies periodic textile structures based on how defects spread through them. The framework determines whether a textile structure is knittable and classifies different types of periodic textiles by analyzing propagation patterns.

Targeted nanoparticles turn cancer's own copper into a lethal weapon

Researchers developed a nanoparticle system that uses cancer cells' own copper resources to activate cuproptosis, eliminating tumor cells while protecting healthy tissue. The targeted nanoparticles showed enhanced cellular uptake and were more lethal to breast cancer cells than non-targeted versions.

A superconductor's hidden identity revealed

Researchers discovered that niobium diselenide and TaS₂ exhibit two strongly interacting superconducting states, resolving a long-standing mystery about their behavior. This finding provides new insight into superconductivity and could aid in designing better superconducting materials for future technologies.

The secret to hydrogen's quantum behavior lies in symmetry

Hydrogen displays varying behavior when in vanadium, but researchers have now discovered the role of crystal symmetry in controlling its quantum behavior. Highly symmetric structures allow hydrogen to tunnel between sites, while distorted structures suppress this effect.

The invisible wearable: New skin sensors revolutionizing health monitoring

Researchers have developed ultrathin, invisible on-skin electrodes that can measure biological signals without altering appearance or social interactions. These new sensors achieve this by closely matching the appearance and texture of natural skin, reducing reflections and eliminating visibility.

A roadmap for self-powered tactile sensors in robots and wearables

Flexible electromagnetic induction-type tactile sensors offer a promising route for low-power, robust and self-powered interfaces. The researchers provided a systematic roadmap for development, including application-oriented design and multimodal integration with other sensing mechanisms.

Tiny infrared chip could improve detection of gases and heat

Researchers at MIT have developed a microscopic pixel-based tunable lens that controls incoming infrared light for more precise thermal imaging, chemical sensing, or pollution monitoring. The system enables compact, dynamic infrared cameras with potential applications in environmental protection, space research, and military technology.

Computer-guided electricity rapidly transforms flat nanofilms into 3D shapes on demand

The team created a method to form dome-shaped bumps on nanofilms in water using a computer-guided electron beam, which can be flattened, reshaped, or repositioned as needed. The technology has potential applications in cell movement and nanorobot power systems.

Discovery could lead to brighter, more energy-efficient digital displays

Researchers at MIT have discovered a method to extend the lifespan of quantum dot LEDs by encapsulating them in an acrylate-based resin. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize the development of energy-efficient digital displays, including flat-screen TVs, augmented and virtual reality headsets, smartphone screens, and me...

"Semiconductors enter the era of skyscrapers": Stacking chips like high-rise buildings to boost performance

Researchers developed a technology to stack ultrathin semiconductor chips with improved integration density, overcoming challenges of chip thickness and warpage. The process enables the reliable stacking of over ten chips, potentially leading to significant improvements in AI semiconductor performance.

A device that behaves like a single neuron

Researchers created a device that senses and interprets light in the same place, like biological neurons do. This breakthrough could increase the efficiency of vision-based technologies like artificial retinas and smart optical sensors.

Researchers mimic life’s own engines

A team of researchers has successfully created an artificial protein motor that can perform tasks such as cell division and muscle movement with high efficiency and precision. The breakthrough, published in Nature Nanotechnology, demonstrates the feasibility of designing dynamic proteins capable of performing movements.

Wasted pumpkin peel can keep your food fresh

Researchers at Kyushu University developed a new food preservation solution using pumpkin peel, creating a nanomaterial that slows deterioration of fruit and reduce transport damage. The material showed good biocompatibility and was effective in suppressing microbial growth and preserving freshness.

Scientists discover novel domino-like phase transformation mechanism with implications for functional devices

Researchers uncover a previously unknown phase transformation mechanism in monolayer molybdenum telluride (MoTe2) that is fundamentally distinct from the conventional martensitic model. The study reveals a one-dimensional 'domino-like' chain reaction that triggers structural rearrangement and enables programmable electronic devices.

Glass cells of atoms offer a new path to smarter, cheaper sensors

Researchers at Penn State and NIST developed a new way to build tinier, smarter glass sensors filled with highly precise and stable atoms. These sensors can measure high-frequency electromagnetic signals, including millimeter-wave radiation, and offer improved navigation accuracy and reliability.

Scientists visualize water oxidation on single-particle catalysts

Researchers have resolved the atomic-scale interplay between hole transfer dynamics and water oxidation intermediates on faceted BiVO₄ particles. A critical hole density threshold dictates pathway bifurcation, with the (010) facet becoming catalytically superior above this threshold.

pH-triggered nanocomposite delivers dual blow to wound infections

Researchers developed a pH-triggered nanocomposite that synchronizes the release of therapeutic agents, combating bacterial biofilms and oxidative stress. The platform accelerates healing and promotes tissue repair in infected wounds.

High-sensitive DUV-SWIR broadband photodetectors

Researchers developed a perovskite/In0.47Ga0.53As thin-film heterojunction to create high-sensitive DUV-SWIR photodetectors with optimal stability and performance. The device achieved 98.9% retention of initial performance after 30,000 cycles.

Mystery solved! The physics behind next-generation janus semiconductors

Janus 2D materials' synthesis has been solved by uncovering the underlying physics, paving the way for more precise manufacturing of electronics and clean energy technologies. The 'Electron Accumulation Model' controls the reaction at room temperature, accelerating it with ultraviolet light.

Can scientists learn cells' language? UCLA-led team aims to decode cellular conversations

The project aims to systematically map how individual pairs of cells influence each other, with the goal of understanding cell-cell communication in health and disease. By characterizing the cellular dyad, scientists can determine which cell influenced which partner, when the interaction began and what changed as a result.

Lithium-doped carbon nanorings show promise for next-generation optical devices

Researchers discovered that lithium doping of a 12-benzene-ring molecule creates a material with strong optical responses due to synergistic effects between aromaticity and charge transfer. This finding establishes fundamental design principles for high-performance carbon-based photonic devices.

Imprinted high-Q polymer micro-ring resonator array

Researchers have developed a polymer-based microring resonator array with over 40 elements, demonstrating broadband acoustic detection and fine spatial resolution. The system achieved strong correspondence with biological structures, including blood vessel regions, in imaging mouse prostate tissue.

Nanotube-based thermoelectrics open a new pathway to waste-heat energy conversion

Researchers have identified a mechanism to improve energy efficiency by converting wasted heat into electricity using hollow silicon nanotubes. This technology has the potential to replace rare metals with abundant silicon, leading to more efficient thermoelectric devices.

Novel gene therapy platform restores muscle function in models of Duchenne muscular dystrophy

Researchers developed a novel gene therapy platform that successfully restored muscle function in preclinical models of Duchenne muscular dystrophy by delivering full-length mRNA of the DMD gene via engineered extracellular vesicles. The treatment showed improved muscle strength, endurance, and function without serious side effects.

New iron–scandium catalyst extends carbon nanotube growth at high temperatures

Researchers have discovered a new iron–scandium catalyst that stabilizes iron catalysts and enables the growth of centimeter-long carbon nanotubes under high-temperature conditions. The study reveals scandium as a key cocatalyst, improving catalyst lifetime and promoting CNT growth.

In a potential nanoscale breakthrough, scientists at Brown reveal 80-atom boron ‘buckyball’

Researchers at Brown University have shown the first experimental evidence for a 80-atom boron buckyball molecule. The new structure is stable and symmetrical, with peaks in its electron binding energy distribution indicating highly tightly bound electrons.

Developing DNA-based nanostructures for targeted cancer therapy

Researchers developed DNA tetrahedrons with Vitamin E-derived molecules for targeted cancer treatment, enhancing cellular uptake and improving anticancer efficacy. The modification triggered oxidative stress in cancer cells, leading to programmed cell death.

Improving the performance of high-power electronics

By integrating GaN transistors into a diamond substrate, researchers have improved the speed and energy-efficiency of next-generation wireless devices. The diamond layer spreads and manages heat, allowing the transistors to operate at peak performance without degrading reliability.

Chemical impurities make carbon surfaces superslippery

Large-scale simulations show that chemical impurities trigger graphitic interface formation in amorphous carbon, promoting low-friction surfaces. Hydrogen and oxygen-based impurities help stabilize tiny voids within the carbon network.

Polyoxometalate-driven interfacial assembly enables functional mesoporous polydopamine nanomotors

Researchers developed anisotropy-tunable mesoporous polydopamine nanomotors with POM-mediated assembly, which combine intrinsic antibacterial activity, self-propulsion, and high drug-loading capacity. These nanomotors demonstrate enhanced antibacterial efficiency and biofilm eradication against drug-resistant bacterial biofilms.

Terahertz biophotonics: Understanding the path towards practical applications

Researchers summarize recent developments in terahertz biophotonics, highlighting its potential for overcoming technical limitations in fields like skin cancer diagnosis, wound assessment, and drug discovery. The study provides a roadmap for future research to improve the field's practical applications.

“Flawless on the outside, flipped within”: Detecting hidden defects in 2D dielectrics with light

Researchers developed an interferometric second-harmonic generation imaging approach to identify antiparallel domains and detect hidden structural defects in hBN thin films. The study finds that SHG intensity is closely associated with differences in crystal orientation and destructive interference between domains.

How 'asymmetric alloying' is creating the next generation of luminescent materials

A novel asymmetric alloying method enables the creation of carbon-centered gold(I)-silver(I) chiral bicapped square antiprism polyhedral clusters, exhibiting phosphorescence and distinct chirality-dependent properties. The approach offers a new paradigm for precise alloying and stereocontrol of metal clusters.

Scientists identify the origin of noise in spin qubit quantum processors

Researchers clarify microscopic origin of charge noise in silicon spin qubits, attributing it to electronic transitions between conduction band and trap states. Higher temperatures improve gate fidelity by reducing switching rates and transition times.

Simultaneous measurements of solid–liquid interfaces and bulk liquids using soft X-ray absorption spectroscopy

Scientists have developed a method to measure the electronic structures of liquid water and organic molecules using soft X-ray absorption spectroscopy. By controlling the thickness of the liquid layer, they obtained XAS spectra of both the bulk liquid and the solid-liquid interface.

Dynamic nanogates let longer molecules pass faster

Researchers found that linear alkane molecules passed through nanoscale pores faster than shorter ones, with transport rates determined by pore size and gate flexibility. The study revealed a two-step transport mechanism involving an encounter complex at the outer surface of the nanocube.

New MOF material harvests water from air in ultra-dry conditions

Researchers have developed a new metal-organic framework (MOF) that captures 170 mg of water per gram at just 0.2% relative humidity, one of the highest water uptake capacities reported in such conditions. The material shows excellent stability and selectivity for water molecules over nitrogen.

New fluorescent nanosensor enables rapid, first-of-its-kind detection of key gut health biomarker

Researchers developed a novel fluorescent nanosensor to detect IPA, an emerging biomarker linked to gut health and disease. The sensor offers rapid detection within minutes, distinguishing IPA from closely related metabolites, enabling accurate measurement even in complex biological environments.

“Breaking the ultra-thin dilemma”: Contact resistance drops 50×, on-state current increases 17×

Researchers at POSTECH develop technology that lowers contact resistance by 50-fold and boosts on-state current by 17 times in ultra-thin tellurium transistors. This breakthrough enables stable operation of devices even at extreme temperatures, paving the way for next-generation 3D integrated circuits.

New low-cost tool reveals hidden molecular switch points under light

A new quantum chemistry method predicts the behavior of molecules under light with lower computational cost, enabling the study of larger systems and complex reaction pathways. This breakthrough advances the discovery of next-generation materials and deepens understanding of molecular behavior under light.

New nanocomposite coating achieves 98% corrosion protection for stainless steel

Researchers developed a nanocomposite coating that improves stainless steel's resistance to highly acidic conditions, offering a potential solution for industries with metal equipment exposed to aggressive chemicals. The coating delivered up to 98.2% corrosion inhibition efficiency and remained stable over seven days of immersion.

Snap-loading cells into uniform microcapsules

The new method allows for scalable production of cell-containing capsules, maintaining cell viability and enabling studies on dynamic interactions. Researchers can customize capsule size and properties, making the technique useful for drug screening, regenerative medicine, and basic cell biology research.

MIT researchers develop a new sensor that could enable earlier detection of bladder cancer

The MIT researchers developed a new sensor that can detect biomarkers produced by bladder cancer cells in the bladder, allowing for earlier detection. This approach is nearly 50,000 times more sensitive than traditional urinalysis and can image tumor location in tissue.

Researchers create novel structural state of matter with exotic properties

Brown University researchers have stabilized a fleeting structural phase of matter that exhibits extraordinary optical properties. Using custom-shaped nanoparticles, they created a nanoparticle superlattice that freezes an elusive intermediate state between two common crystal metallic arrangements.

Lanzhou Jiaotong University researchers develop sustainable wastewater-powered electricity generator system

Lanzhou Jiaotong University researchers developed a droplet-based energy harvesting technology that converts secondary wastewater effluents into electricity. The system achieved high output performance and successfully powered LED lights, demonstrating its practical energy harvesting capability.

Cobalt honeycombs open a new path to quantum computing

Researchers from The University of Osaka created a cobalt-based honeycomb structure that exhibits strong magnetic interactions and ferromagnetic-like behavior. This breakthrough may lead to lower-cost quantum computing materials using relatively cheap and widely available cobalt.

Highly stable diamagnetically levitated mechanical resonators with large masses exceeding 1.5 gram

Researchers at UCF–UF develop a gram-scale mechanical resonator suspended entirely by diamagnetic levitation, eliminating mechanical supports and energy losses. The device achieves exceptional stability and low dissipation, outperforming high-end MEMS sensors.

Complexity isn't subjective. The right amount results in new material properties

A team of researchers from the University of Michigan and other institutions developed a quantitative measure to quantify complexity in nanomaterials. The metric enables engineers to design materials with unique properties not seen in natural or existing man-made materials.

New recyclable resin could enable sustainable 3D printing, researchers report

Researchers at Yokohama National University developed a new recyclable resin that can be reused multiple times without losing quality. The resin uses reversible photodimerization to form bonds that can be broken and re-formed, enabling high-precision stereolithography.

Electric fields give optical tweezers a sharper grip for nanowire calligraphy

A new method combines holographic optical tweezers with AC electric fields to pre-align and trap nanowires with improved stability and efficiency. This hybrid approach enables predictable, programmable movement, turning random motion into controlled assembly tasks.

Bringing bacteria into better focus

Osaka Metropolitan University researchers developed a light-driven method to rapidly collect microscopic targets, outperforming traditional techniques. The technique concentrates bacteria between 1000-10,000 times faster than existing approaches, paving the way for early disease detection and analysis of nanoparticles.

Southeast University and Korea University researchers develop smarter copper catalysts for turning CO₂ into fuels

Southeast University and Korea University researchers developed advanced copper catalysts to convert CO₂ into valuable fuels. Their strategy integrates tandem effects, synergistic interactions, and geometric control to enhance reaction pathways, reducing energy barriers for C₂+ product formation.

Nanotechnology special issue spotlights smart platforms while advancing precision cancer therapy

Researchers “reprogram” materials by quickly rearranging their atoms

Atomic step–terrace ordering enables unprecedented precision in mechanical testing

Powerful shrinking technique could enable devices that compute with light

Metabolism-inspired hydrogels replicate heartbeat-like motion and photosynthesis

Researchers design polymer networks to replicate dynamic behaviors inspired by biological systems. Self-oscillating gels exhibit rhythmic motion similar to a beating heart, while artificial photosynthetic gels convert light into chemical energy.

Organic luminescent radicals enable bright circularly polarized light in the near-infrared region