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New strategy improves power conversion efficiency of TOPCon solar cells

Scientists have developed a new synergistic metallization strategy for TOPCon solar cells, achieving a certified power conversion efficiency of 26.31%. The approach reduces optical shading and contact resistance losses, boosting the short-circuit current density to a record high.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 12, 2026

The 'thinner yet tougher' paradox: A two-sided upgrade for flexible microchips

A new manufacturing approach enables the creation of working transistors on both sides of flexible microchips, doubling computing density. The technique uses a liquid bath to detach and float ultra-thin silicon membranes, allowing for precise fabrication without harsh adhesives.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateApr 13, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Structural color can now be printed with an inkjet printer

Researchers at Kobe University have developed a method to print structural color using an inkjet printer, enabling the creation of vibrant colors without pigments or dyes. The new technology has potential applications in display and anti-counterfeiting technologies.

SourceKobe University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2026

Scientists achieve record efficiency in industrial tunnel oxide passivating contact solar cells

Chinese scientists have developed a dual-side electrical refinement strategy for large-area TOPCon solar cells, achieving an open-circuit voltage of 744.6 mV and a fill factor of 85.57%. The breakthrough sets a new record for industrial-scale solar cells, narrowing the gap between mass-production efficiency and theoretical limit.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Energy·DateFeb 24, 2026

Scientists find new way to control electricity at tiniest scale

Researchers at University of California, Riverside, found that symmetrical silicon molecules can be fine-tuned for quantum electron behavior, turning conductivity on or off like a molecular-scale switch. This discovery could lead to ultra-small switches and thermoelectric devices, revolutionizing electronics.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 8, 2025

Breakthrough in deep ultraviolet laser technology

Researchers developed a compact, solid-state laser system that generates 193-nm coherent light, marking the first 193-nm vortex beam produced from a solid-state laser. This innovation enhances semiconductor lithography efficiency and opens new avenues for advanced manufacturing techniques.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateMar 21, 2025

On the way to a “new” second

A newly developed ion crystal clock has demonstrated record accuracy, reaching an uncertainty close to the 18th decimal place. This achievement marks a significant step towards redefining the second in the International System of Units (SI), as optical clocks are now 100 times more accurate than current caesium clocks.

SourcePhysikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 17, 2025
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.

MIT engineers grow “high-rise” 3D chips

Researchers create multilayered chip design that doesn't require silicon wafer substrates, allowing for better communication and computation between layers. This breakthrough enables the construction of fast and powerful AI hardware comparable to supercomputers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateDec 18, 2024

Pre-seed funding to recolor the world greener

Kobe University has developed a new way to produce colors using nanospheres, which could reduce the environmental impact of paints and cosmetics. The technology uses silicon spheres to scatter light, creating bright and brilliant colors that do not fade or change with viewing angle.

SourceKobe University·DateDec 11, 2024

Rice lab achieves major gains in perovskite solar cell stability

Researchers at Rice University have made a breakthrough in synthesizing formamidinium lead iodide (FAPbI3) perovskite solar cells into ultrastable, high-quality photovoltaic films. The overall efficiency of the resulting FAPbI3 solar cells decreased by less than 3% over 1,000 hours of operation.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 2024
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.

Structural color ink: Printable, non-iridescent and lightweight

Researchers at Kobe University developed a new approach to producing colors using the scattering of light from tiny silicon crystals. The material enables non-fading structural colors that do not depend on the viewing angle and can be printed, promising significant weight improvements over conventional paints.

SourceKobe University·JournalACS Applied Nano Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2024

Columbia chemists create the first 2D heavy fermion

Researchers at Columbia University have synthesized the first 2D heavy fermion material, CeSiI, a layered intermetallic crystal composed of cerium, silicon, and iodine. The material has electrons that are up to 1000x heavier than usual, enabling exploration of quantum phenomena such as superconductivity.

SourceColumbia University·JournalNature·DateJan 17, 2024

Artificial intelligence unravels mysteries of polycrystalline materials

Researchers at Nagoya University used AI to analyze image data of polycrystalline silicon and discovered staircase-like structures that cause dislocations during crystal growth. The study sheds light on the formation of dislocations in polycrystalline materials, which can affect electrical conduction and overall performance.

SourceNagoya University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 19, 2023
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.

Accelerating sustainable semiconductors with ‘multielement ink’

Researchers have developed a new semiconducting material called multielement ink that can be processed at low temperatures, paving the way for more sustainable semiconductor industry. The breakthrough enables faster and lower-energy production of semiconductors, which could significantly reduce carbon emissions.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

Toward high-efficiency thin crystalline silicon solar cells

A new strategy optimizes optical and electrical characteristics of thin c-Si solar cells, improving conversion efficiency by 28% compared to industrial thick counterparts. The proposed design uses a layer transfer method and metal nanofilms for enhanced light absorption and surface passivation.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateSep 27, 2023
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

High thermal conductivity of cubic silicon carbide finally demonstrated

A research group led by Osaka Metropolitan University has proven that 3C-SiC exhibits high thermal conductivity, equivalent to the theoretical level. The crystal purity and quality of the material were found to be key factors in unlocking its high thermal conductivity.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 14, 2023

At the edge of graphene-based electronics

Georgia Tech researchers developed a new nanoelectronics platform based on graphene, enabling smaller devices, higher speeds, and less heat. The platform may lead to the discovery of a new quasiparticle, potentially exploiting the elusive Majorana fermion.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

Solving the puzzle: Cubic silicon carbide wafers demonstrate high thermal conductivity, second only to diamond

Researchers at the University of Illinois have solved a long-standing puzzle about cubic silicon carbide's thermal conductivity, which is higher than previously thought. The team measured an isotropic high thermal conductivity of over 500 W m–1 K–1, ranking it second only to diamond.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 8, 2022

New study introduces the best graphite films

Researchers at UNIST have developed a method to synthesize single-crystalline graphite films of up to inch scale, overcoming the critical issue of small size due to weak interaction between layers. The resulting films exhibit exceptional thermal conductivity and uniform quality.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 4, 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.

Now you don’t see it … and now you do

A team of researchers at Rice University has developed a new method to detect tiny cracks in concrete using silicon fluorescence. The technique involves applying a thin coat of opaque paint to the concrete and shining near-infrared light on it, revealing even the smallest microcracks.

SourceRice University·JournalScientific Reports·DateJan 25, 2022

Groundbreaking technique yields important new details on silicon, subatomic particles and possible ‘fifth force’

NIST scientists use a novel technique to measure the properties of silicon crystals, revealing new insights into subatomic particles and the strength of a possible fifth force. The results provide improved precision and complementary information for both X-ray and neutron scattering.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 9, 2021

New substance classes for nanomaterials: Nano spheres and diamond slivers made of silicon and germanium

Researchers at Goethe University Frankfurt and Bonn have synthesized molecular nano spheres made of silicon atoms, known as silafulleranes, which can encapsulate chloride ions. The discovery of these new compounds may lead to improved applications in electronics, solar cells, and batteries.

SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 8, 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.

Transparent nanolayers for more solar power

Researchers at Forschungszentrum Jülich developed a nanostructured, transparent material for the front of solar cells, achieving efficiencies of up to 23.99%, surpassing crystalline silicon cells. The new design offers passivation, transparency, and high electrical conductivity, paving the way for large-scale industrial production.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Energy·DateApr 15, 2021

New study presents neutral-colored transparent crystalline silicon photovoltaics

Researchers have successfully created translucent solar cells with a high efficiency level of 12.2%, solving issues of flexibility and transparency. The development paves the way for integrating solar cells into everyday infrastructure, such as energy-generating vehicles and buildings made from glass.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalJoule·DateMar 9, 2020

Punching holes in opaque solar cells turns them transparent

Researchers in Korea have developed a strategy to transform opaque solar cells into transparent ones, allowing for more efficient energy harvesting. The transparent solar cells have a high-power conversion efficiency of 12.2 percent and long-term stability, making them ideal for turning windows into solar panels.

SourceCell Press·JournalJoule·DateDec 11, 2019
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.

Kick-starting Moore's Law? New 'synthetic' method for making microchips could help

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed a new method for producing atomically-thin semiconducting crystals, which could lead to advances in quantum computing, nanotechnology, and consumer electronics. The breakthrough method enables faster and less expensive production of next-generation semiconductor crystals.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 18, 2019

Flexing for the next silicon wave

Researchers at KAUST have developed corrugated arrays of interdigitated back contact solar cells with screen-printed aluminum contacts that can bend without cracking. The cells have a record-breaking efficiency for both silicon solar cell efficiency and bendability.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateJan 29, 2018

Seeing the next dimension of computer chips

Scientists at Osaka University used scanning tunneling microscopy to create images of atomically flat side-surfaces of 3D silicon crystals, a crucial step towards designing smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient computer chips. The achievement paves the way for innovation in semiconductor manufacturing.

SourceOsaka University·JournalJapanese Journal of Applied Physics·DateOct 10, 2017

Dawn of organic single crystal electronics

Researchers have successfully doped organic single crystals with a new ultra-slow deposition technique, achieving high doping efficiency and detecting the Hall effect signal. This achievement marks the dawn of organic single crystal electronics, paving the way for future devices like high-performance solar cells.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 28, 2017

A SOI wafer is a suitable substrate for gallium nitride crystals

Gallium nitride (GaN) layers grown on SOI wafers exhibit higher crystalline quality and improved breakdown characteristics than those grown on silicon substrates. This enables the use of clearly higher voltages in power electronics and reduces losses and crosstalk in high-frequency applications.

SourceAalto University·JournalSemiconductor Science and Technology·DateMar 2, 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.

An effective and low-cost solution for storing solar energy

Researchers at EPFL and CSEM have developed a robust and effective system to store solar energy by converting it into hydrogen through water electrolysis. The new system, which combines existing components, achieves a high level of stability and cost efficiency, enabling the generation and storage of enough hydrogen to power a fuel cel...

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalJournal of The Electrochemical Society·DateAug 25, 2016

World-first pinpointing of atoms at work for quantum computers

Scientists can now track and see individual phosphorus atoms in a silicon crystal, confirming quantum computing capability. This discovery has potential use in nano detection devices and is a world-first in atomic-resolution imaging.

SourceUniversity of Melbourne·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 8, 2016

Lehigh scientists extend the reach of single crystals

Researchers at Lehigh University have made a breakthrough in creating single crystals from glasses, which could enable the use of disordered materials in high-tech applications like lasers and LEDs. The new method uses a novel heating strategy to convert glass into a single crystal without unwanted crystals forming.

SourceLehigh University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 21, 2016
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Quantum dot solids: This generation's silicon wafer?

A team of Cornell researchers has developed two-dimensional superstructures out of single-crystal building blocks, showcasing atomic coherence and superior electrical properties. The discovery has potential applications in energy absorption and light emission, but challenges remain to further improve the results.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Materials·DateFeb 25, 2016

Simplifying solar cells with a new mix of materials

A new mix of materials eliminates doping, a complex process that degrades performance, to create highly efficient silicon solar cells. The new design enables the creation of high-efficiency solar cells in just seven steps.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·DateJan 27, 2016

A crystal wedding in the nanocosmos

Scientists successfully integrated compound semiconductor crystals made of indium arsenide into silicon nanowires, overcoming a major obstacle in chip technology. The production method, which involves ion implantation and heat treatment, enables the creation of 'hetero-nanowires' with improved performance.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNano Research·DateJul 23, 2014

Superconducting-silicon qubits

Theorists propose using a bottom-up approach to create hybrid quantum devices by placing superconducting regions within silicon crystals. This could combine the benefits of both silicon spin qubits and superconducting circuits, enabling more robust qubit designs.

SourceJoint Quantum Institute·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 2, 2014
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.

Liquid metal makes silicon crystals at record low temperatures

Scientists have created a way to produce crystalline silicon directly at just 180 F by using liquid metal, offering a more efficient and environmentally friendly process. The new method has the potential to significantly reduce production costs and make alternative semiconductors more viable for solar energy applications.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJan 24, 2013

Vise squad: Putting the squeeze on a crystal leads to novel electronics

Researchers have discovered a novel method to create ferroelectric crystals on silicon, enabling the creation of non-volatile memory and temperature sensors. This breakthrough could lead to faster and more efficient electronics with instant-on capabilities.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalScience·DateMay 8, 2009

News bits about qubits

Researchers successfully stored and retrieved information using the nucleus of an atom, demonstrating a single atomic nucleus as quantum computational memory. The breakthrough enables faster processing speeds and longer memory times for quantum computing.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·DateOct 23, 2008
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Australia weighs in to make the perfect kilogram

Australian scientists and optical engineers are working with the International Bureau of Weights and Measures to create a perfect sphere from a single crystal of exceptionally pure silicon. The goal is to redefine the kilogram, currently defined by a physical object in France, using a fundamental constant of nature.

SourceCSIRO Australia·DateJun 14, 2007

Study reveals why silicon crystals lose their 'edge'

Researchers at Ohio State University discovered a series of phase transitions that cause silicon crystals to round their edges as they reach thermal equilibrium. This finding has implications for the manufacturing of tiny electronic components, such as wires and semiconductors, which could be designed with specific patterns.

SourceOhio State University·JournalSurface Science·DateSep 15, 2003

Technological breakthrough in silicon photonics

Researchers at the Max Planck Institute have developed a novel technique for tailoring silicon nanocrystals on 4-inch wafers, enabling the mass production of these tiny crystals. By controlling the size and position of the nanocrystals, the team aims to improve the efficiency of light-emitting devices such as LEDs.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·DateAug 27, 2003
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.

Space experiments are key to better crystal-growth modeling

Researchers at Purdue University are designing software to manufacture superior crystals, enabling better electronic hardware and alloys. Space experiments have uncovered critical information on crystal formation in the absence of gravity, which is incorporated into mathematical models.

SourcePurdue University·DateAug 9, 2000

Microscopic Machines May Replace Quartz Crystals: Pollen-Grain-Sized Parts May Appear In Watches, TVs, Computers

Researchers at Sandia National Laboratories have developed a microelectromechanical system (MEMS) prototype that functions as a clock source, replacing traditional quartz crystals. The MEMS devices are made from polysilicon and can be built on one chip with integrated circuits, reducing manufacturing costs and increasing reliability.

SourceDOE/Sandia National Laboratories·DateAug 3, 1998

World Record For Purity Promises Faster, More Efficient Electronic Devices

Researchers at Weizmann Institute achieve record-purity gallium arsenide crystal, allowing electrons to travel at 14.4 million centimeters per second. This breakthrough enables the creation of faster and more efficient electronic devices, such as semiconductor transistors.

SourceAmerican Committee for the Weizmann Institute of Science·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJul 24, 1997
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

'Universal Substrate' For Semiconductors Is Developed At Cornell

Researchers at Cornell University have achieved a breakthrough in materials science by growing single crystals of any material on a semiconductor substrate. This technique opens doors for manufacturing new classes of devices in optoelectronics and microelectronics, including lasers, detectors, sensors, and computer chips.

SourceCornell University·DateMar 27, 1997