Articles tagged with Silicon
Comprehensive exploration of living organisms, biological systems, and life processes across all scales from molecules to ecosystems. Encompasses cutting-edge research in biology, genetics, molecular biology, ecology, biochemistry, microbiology, botany, zoology, evolutionary biology, genomics, and biotechnology. Investigates cellular mechanisms, organism development, genetic inheritance, biodiversity conservation, metabolic processes, protein synthesis, DNA sequencing, CRISPR gene editing, stem cell research, and the fundamental principles governing all forms of life on Earth.
Comprehensive medical research, clinical studies, and healthcare sciences focused on disease prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Encompasses clinical medicine, public health, pharmacology, epidemiology, medical specialties, disease mechanisms, therapeutic interventions, healthcare innovation, precision medicine, telemedicine, medical devices, drug development, clinical trials, patient care, mental health, nutrition science, health policy, and the application of medical science to improve human health, wellbeing, and quality of life across diverse populations.
Comprehensive investigation of human society, behavior, relationships, and social structures through systematic research and analysis. Encompasses psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, political science, linguistics, education, demography, communications, and social research methodologies. Examines human cognition, social interactions, cultural phenomena, economic systems, political institutions, language and communication, educational processes, population dynamics, and the complex social, cultural, economic, and political forces shaping human societies, communities, and civilizations throughout history and across the contemporary world.
Fundamental study of the non-living natural world, matter, energy, and physical phenomena governing the universe. Encompasses physics, chemistry, earth sciences, atmospheric sciences, oceanography, materials science, and the investigation of physical laws, chemical reactions, geological processes, climate systems, and planetary dynamics. Explores everything from subatomic particles and quantum mechanics to planetary systems and cosmic phenomena, including energy transformations, molecular interactions, elemental properties, weather patterns, tectonic activity, and the fundamental forces and principles underlying the physical nature of reality.
Practical application of scientific knowledge and engineering principles to solve real-world problems and develop innovative technologies. Encompasses all engineering disciplines, technology development, computer science, artificial intelligence, environmental sciences, agriculture, materials applications, energy systems, and industrial innovation. Bridges theoretical research with tangible solutions for infrastructure, manufacturing, computing, communications, transportation, construction, sustainable development, and emerging technologies that advance human capabilities, improve quality of life, and address societal challenges through scientific innovation and technological progress.
Study of the practice, culture, infrastructure, and social dimensions of science itself. Addresses how science is conducted, organized, communicated, and integrated into society. Encompasses research funding mechanisms, scientific publishing systems, peer review processes, academic ethics, science policy, research institutions, scientific collaboration networks, science education, career development, research programs, scientific methods, science communication, and the sociology of scientific discovery. Examines the human, institutional, and cultural aspects of scientific enterprise, knowledge production, and the translation of research into societal benefit.
Comprehensive study of the universe beyond Earth, encompassing celestial objects, cosmic phenomena, and space exploration. Includes astronomy, astrophysics, planetary science, cosmology, space physics, astrobiology, and space technology. Investigates stars, galaxies, planets, moons, asteroids, comets, black holes, nebulae, exoplanets, dark matter, dark energy, cosmic microwave background, stellar evolution, planetary formation, space weather, solar system dynamics, the search for extraterrestrial life, and humanity's efforts to explore, understand, and unlock the mysteries of the cosmos through observation, theory, and space missions.
Comprehensive examination of tools, techniques, methodologies, and approaches used across scientific disciplines to conduct research, collect data, and analyze results. Encompasses experimental procedures, analytical methods, measurement techniques, instrumentation, imaging technologies, spectroscopic methods, laboratory protocols, observational studies, statistical analysis, computational methods, data visualization, quality control, and methodological innovations. Addresses the practical techniques and theoretical frameworks enabling scientists to investigate phenomena, test hypotheses, gather evidence, ensure reproducibility, and generate reliable knowledge through systematic, rigorous investigation across all areas of scientific inquiry.
Study of abstract structures, patterns, quantities, relationships, and logical reasoning through pure and applied mathematical disciplines. Encompasses algebra, calculus, geometry, topology, number theory, analysis, discrete mathematics, mathematical logic, set theory, probability, statistics, and computational mathematics. Investigates mathematical structures, theorems, proofs, algorithms, functions, equations, and the rigorous logical frameworks underlying quantitative reasoning. Provides the foundational language and tools for all scientific fields, enabling precise description of natural phenomena, modeling of complex systems, and the development of technologies across physics, engineering, computer science, economics, and all quantitative sciences.
Scientists created synthetic material from silicon that shows potential for improving soft tissue function and interface between electronic devices and biological tissues. The new method involves pressure modulation synthesis to promote the growth of silicon nanowires.
USC Viterbi researchers have developed new layered semiconducting materials that can be adjusted to achieve unique electronic and optical properties. These materials have potential applications in LIDAR systems, infrared thermal imaging technology, and flexible night vision glasses.
Researchers have successfully created graphene biosensors that can selectively bind to specific molecules, allowing for precise detection and control. This breakthrough enables the development of inexpensive 'lab-on-a-chip' devices for medical diagnostics, promising a significant impact on healthcare.
A recent study published in the Journal of Marketing found that shoppers' tendency to make unplanned purchases increases as they spend more on planned items. The likelihood of an unplanned purchase can be up to 9.6% higher toward the end of the trip, depending on the shopper's budget.
The researchers developed a novel ultra-compact heterogeneous wavelength tunable laser diode using silicon photonics and quantum-dot technology, achieving a wide-range tuning operation of around 1250 nm wavelength with an ultra-small device footprint. The obtained frequency tuning-range of 8.8 THz is a world record for QD and silicon p...
Researchers at Stanford University have developed a breakthrough technology that enables the efficient transmission of data using light, potentially replacing wires in computing systems. The innovation uses inverse design algorithm to fabricate silicon structures that can carry infrared light, paving the way for faster and more energy-...
Engineers created an ultracompact beamsplitter to divide light waves into two channels, bringing researchers closer to silicon photonic chips that compute with light instead of electrons. This technology could significantly increase the power and speed of machines such as supercomputers, data center servers, and mobile devices.
Researchers from Aalto University and Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya have achieved a new record in black silicon solar cell efficiency at 22.1%, surpassing previous records by over 3%. The breakthrough is attributed to the application of a thin passivating film and integration of metal contacts on the back side of the cell.
Researchers at Rice University have discovered a way to simplify the manufacture of solar cells by employing electrodes as catalysts to create black silicon. The new process enables the production of black silicon with high efficiency and reflects little light, allowing more sunlight to reach the active elements of solar cells.
Researchers at University of Georgia successfully synthesized silicon oxide fragments using a carbene stabilization technique, isolating highly reactive molecules at room temperature. This breakthrough enables further research into silicon chemistry and its applications in the semiconductor industry.
A new fabrication technique allows for direct production of polycrystalline silicon on flexible surfaces, enabling the creation of wearable electronics and other applications. The method bypasses a traditional thermal annealing step, making it more suitable for use with flexible substrates.
Researchers have developed a new type of battery electrode made from molybdenum disulfide sheets wrapped in silicon carbonitride, showing improved stability and high lithium capacity. The discovery could lead to more efficient rechargeable batteries for smartphones and other devices.
Researchers have designed an organic electronic device with record-breaking ultra-long charge carrier lifetimes, opening up possibilities for new classes of devices such as sensitive photo detectors and flexible memory elements. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient solar cells, low-carbon electricity generation, and reduced e...
A UN SW-led research team has successfully encoded quantum information in silicon using simple electrical pulses for the first time. This breakthrough enables local control of individual qubits with electric fields, reducing development costs and making large-scale quantum computers more accessible.
A new fiber-optic temperature sensor has been designed to measure small temperature changes in the ocean with increased speed and sensitivity. The sensor uses a silicon pillar attached to fused silica glass, allowing it to register temperature shifts at high rates.
Researchers at Imperial College London and Houston Methodist Research Institute have successfully delivered nucleic acids to specific areas of the body using nanoneedles, prompting the formation of new blood vessels in mice. This breakthrough technique shows promise for treating damaged organs and nerves by repairing themselves.
Researchers at Brown University have developed a method to create pure, p-type semiconductors from silicon telluride, which could be used in various electronic and optical devices. The materials can take up lithium and magnesium, making them suitable for battery electrodes.
Researchers have developed tandem photovoltaics that combine perovskite and silicon solar cells to achieve higher energy conversion efficiencies. This innovative design could give a boost to industrial solar cell efficiencies and provide a promising alternative to traditional silicon solar cells.
Researchers have successfully controlled quantum states in a silicon wafer, achieving a record-breaking quantum on/off switching time of about 1 millionth of a millionth of a second. This breakthrough could lead to the creation of fast quantum silicon chips and ultra-sensitive bio-medical sensors.
Researchers at Goethe University have successfully synthesised a silicon dodecahedron, a structurally similar compound to C60. The molecule features an Si20 Platonic solid and opens up new possibilities for the semiconductor industry.
Researchers created a flexible, thin material that can change color by flexing it, offering possibilities for new display technologies and sensors. The material uses 'structural color' to reflect specific wavelengths of light, reflecting up to 83% of incoming light.
Researchers at Ghent University have developed mid-infrared frequency combs, which enable high-resolution spectroscopy for detecting gases. The combs' broad spectrum allows for fast and accurate analysis of molecular fingerprints, making them suitable for environmental monitoring and medical diagnostics.
Researchers at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin developed silicon micro-funnels that absorb light more efficiently than traditional nanowire arrays. The funnels improve solar cell efficiency without requiring special manufacturing processes.
Researchers at the University of California, Riverside have developed a novel paper-like material composed of silicon nanofibers to boost lithium-ion battery performance. The material has the potential to increase specific energy by several times, making it suitable for electric vehicles and personal electronics.
Researchers from Ohio State University are working to turn germanium into a potential replacement for silicon. They have created forms of germanium called germanane, which has the potential to transmit electrons 10 times faster than silicon and absorb light more efficiently.
Research from Griffith University demonstrates silicon carbide's superiority as a semiconductor for high-performance sensors in various industries, including mining and aerospace. The compound's unique electronic structure provides mechanical strength, chemical inertness, thermal durability, and electrical stability.
Researchers at University of Texas at Austin developed the first silicene transistors, made of one-atom-thick silicon material. The breakthrough paves the way for faster and energy-efficient computer chips.
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory developed a method to create an antireflective surface on silicon solar cells using self-assembled nanotextures inspired by the structure of moths' eyes. The resulting surface reduces reflections and improves sunlight conversion, outperforming state-of-the-art coatings by up to 20%.
Scientists have created the first germanium-tin semiconductor laser for silicon chips, enabling faster data transfer and reducing energy consumption. The new material can be applied directly onto a silicon chip, paving the way for high-speed data transmission.
Researchers at Stanford University have developed a novel perovskite-silicon tandem device that dramatically improves the overall efficiency of conventional silicon solar cells. The device achieves an efficiency boost of nearly 50% with relatively low cost, making it a promising solution for the renewable energy sector.
Researchers have built an array of light detectors sensitive enough to register individual photons and mounted them on a silicon optical chip. The approach increases detector density and sensitivity, yielding results up to 20 percent, which is a significant step toward practical quantum computing.
Researchers developed a simple new fabrication technique that mimics the action of a children's pop-up book to create beautiful and complex 3-D micro- and nanostructures. The technique trumps 3-D printing with advantages in speed, cost, and material integration.
The Stanford team created a high-rise chip with multiple layers of logic and memory, potentially leading to computing performance that is much greater than anything available today. The architecture leverages three breakthroughs: new transistor technology, multi-story computer memory, and innovative fabrication techniques.
Researchers at Purdue University have created the first modern germanium circuit, a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) device, using germanium as the semiconductor material. The breakthrough enables the industry to make smaller transistors and more compact integrated circuits, potentially replacing silicon in the future.
Researchers at Caltech have developed a new technology to absorb and utilize infrared light, often lost in traditional solar panels. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient solar cells and sensors that detect light using electrostatic potential.
Researchers discovered a rubber-like coating that improves durability of high-capacity silicon electrodes, leading to potential ten-fold increase in battery capacity. The coating softens the particles, allowing them to expand and contract with lithium without fracturing.
A team of Carnegie scientists synthesized a novel form of silicon with a quasi-direct band gap, suitable for high-efficiency solar applications. The new allotrope, Si24, has an open framework structure and is stable at ambient pressure, making it potentially more effective than conventional diamond-structured silicon
Researchers from the University of Southampton have developed a new technique, Ultrafast photomodulation spectroscopy (UPMS), to help produce more reliable and robust next-generation photonic chips. This method uses ultraviolet laser pulses to change the refractive index of silicon in a tiny area on the chip.
Scientists from the University of Tokyo have detected silicon and nitrogen-terminated carbon chain molecules in interstellar space using laboratory experiments. The discovery provides valuable information on the formation mechanisms of these molecules and their potential impact on understanding the chemical composition of the universe.
Researchers have designed a new experiment to test the foundations of quantum mechanics at large scales. They plan to achieve macroscopic high-mass superpositions by using a levitated silicon nanoparticle in an interferometer setup.
NTNU researchers have developed a technique to produce solar cells using impure silicon, reducing energy consumption and production costs. The new method uses glass fibers coated with a silicon core, which is heated and stretched to create a thin fiber filled with silicon, resulting in lower energy requirements and fewer production steps.
Two research teams at UNSW Australia have developed high-accuracy quantum bits in silicon, surpassing 99% accuracy. The breakthroughs are published simultaneously in Nature Nanotechnology and aim to build powerful quantum computers.
The Global Climate and Energy Project (GCEP) at Stanford University has awarded $10.5 million to seven research projects focused on advancing renewable energy technologies. These projects include the development of high-energy batteries, solar cells, and sustainable fuels.
Researchers at University of Southampton demonstrate a breakthrough technique that enables silicon detectors for telecommunications, promising significant advances in photonics. The technique uses laser-crystallised silicon photonic devices to overcome challenges of using silicon in data communications.
Single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) show promise as a successor to silicon for smaller, faster and cheaper electronic devices. A new method improves their reliability and performance by coating them with PVDF-TrFE, a fluoropolymer that mitigates impurities and defects.
Researchers have discovered a way to create a metal layer on silicon that can lead to faster computing without overheating. The new topological insulator could enable the development of quantum computers and spintronic devices that are billions of times faster than conventional computers.
Researchers have developed phase-change materials that can switch between crystalline and glassy phases to enable fast logic-processing operations. These new devices could process speeds up to 500-1,000 times faster than current silicon-based computers while using less energy.
Harvard researchers have engineered a material to perform comparably with the best silicon switches, achieving an on/off ratio of greater than 10^5. The discovery uses solid-state chemical doping and exploits chemistry rather than temperature to achieve dramatic results.
A UC Davis engineering professor has developed a technique to mass-produce thin silicon blades at lower cost. The new technology enables the production of sharp blades with reduced manufacturing costs, opening possibilities for incorporating electrical and optical technologies.
Researchers at the University of Vienna successfully manipulated individual silicon atoms in graphene, revealing a previously unknown phenomenon where the silicon-carbon bond is inverted. This discovery opens promising possibilities for atomic-scale engineering and could lead to the creation of unique quantum structures.
Researchers have developed a new technology to create artificial membranes on silicon surfaces, mimicking those found in living organisms. The process uses commercial chemicals and is the first time anyone has made an artificial membrane without mixing liquid solvents together.
Researchers developed a new technique to measure nanomechanical properties of microstructures undergoing stress and heating, revealing insights for improving microelectronics and battery designs. The technology uses laser-based Raman spectroscopy to study surface stresses and their impact on mechanical properties.
Rice University researchers have created a CMOS-compatible, biomimetic color photodetector that directly responds to red, green and blue light. The device uses an aluminum grating that can be added to silicon photodetectors with the mainstay technology, "complementary metal-oxide semiconductor," or CMOS.
A team of international researchers has successfully isolated thick multilayers of silicene and demonstrated its stability in the presence of oxygen for at least 24 hours. The breakthrough allows scientists to further explore the material's properties, which have made silicene a promising candidate for the electronics industry.
Researchers from NUS use a focused laser beam to 'draw' micropatterns on nanomaterials, enhancing electrical conductivity and photoconductivity by over 10 times. This technique has potential for advanced applications in electronics and optoelectronics.
Researchers at Rice University have developed a breakthrough silicon oxide memory technology that can be fabricated at room temperature with conventional methods. The new porous silicon oxide version improves the forming voltage and eliminates edge fabrication needs.
A team of researchers at the University of California, Riverside has created a novel method to produce high-performance lithium-ion battery anodes using sand. The innovative technique, which involves milling and purifying quartz from sand, results in a porous nano-silicon material that improves battery lifespan up to three times.
Researchers developed a porous silicon material to replace traditional graphite in lithium-ion batteries, allowing for more energy storage capacity and longer runtime. The new material maintained over 80% of its initial capacity after 1,000 charge-and-discharge cycles.
Researchers at Linköping University solved the long-standing mystery of a printed diode by applying it in the GHz band, enabling power supply to printed electronics via mobile phones. The breakthrough was achieved through tunnel effects, a phenomenon in quantum physics.
Researchers have developed a simple way to etch nanoscale spikes into silicon, allowing more than 99% of sunlight to reach the cells' active elements. The new process reduces costs associated with solar cell production and increases efficiency.