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Flip-flop qubits: Radical new quantum computing design invented

Engineers at University of New South Wales invent radical new architecture for quantum computing based on novel 'flip-flop qubits'. The design allows for silicon quantum processor that can be scaled up without precise placement of atoms, enabling easier fabrication and placement of thousands or millions of qubits.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Communications·DateSep 6, 2017

Newly-discovered semiconductor dynamics may help improve energy efficiency

Researchers have uncovered a reason why semiconductors lose their ability to carry electricity as they become more densely doped. They found that transient bonding of dopant ions with the semiconductor base material impeds conduction, but now know how to design smarter systems to minimize this effect.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 5, 2017
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Silicon solves problems for next-generation battery technology

Researchers have discovered a way to improve Li-ion battery technology by replacing graphite with silicon, quadrupling anode capacity. The new material has been found to be more suitable when particles are sized between 10-20 micrometres and have the right porosity.

SourceUniversity of Eastern Finland·JournalScientific Reports·DateAug 30, 2017

New device could turn heat energy into a viable fuel source

A new device developed by Washington State University physicist Yi Gu converts heat energy into electricity up to three times more efficiently than silicon. The multilayered composite material, called a van der Waals Schottky diode, has the potential to provide an extra source of power for electronics, cars, and other devices.

SourceWashington State University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry Letters·DateAug 30, 2017

Adding silicon to soil to strengthen plant defenses

Researchers found that high levels of silicon concentrations decrease insect growth and root consumption by up to 71%. Silicon helps plants build phytoliths, making them less digestible to insects, and triggering an immune system response. This natural defense mechanism could provide a sustainable solution for crop protection.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalSoil Biology and Biochemistry·DateAug 15, 2017

New ultrathin semiconductor materials exceed some of silicon's 'secret' powers

Researchers at Stanford University have discovered two semiconductors that can form high-quality insulators when exposed to oxygen, a trait shared by silicon but not other semiconductors. The new materials can be shrunk to atomic thinness and require less energy than silicon circuits, making them ideal for future devices.

SourceStanford University·JournalScience Advances·DateAug 11, 2017
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.

Atomic discovery opens door to greener, faster, smaller electronic circuitry

Scientists have developed a way to delete and replace out-of-place atoms in silicon chips, correcting communication pathways and enabling the creation of perfect patterns. This breakthrough allows for the production of ultra-low power atomic circuitry at room temperature, revolutionizing the field of electronics.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalACS Nano·DateJul 26, 2017

Taking technology to the next level

The CUDOS research group has created compact, mass manufacturable optical circuits by integrating nonlinear glasses with silicon-based material. This breakthrough enables faster data processing and opens up opportunities for miniaturizing photonics devices, from laptops to smartphones.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Ultrahigh bandwidth Devices for Optical Systems (CUDOS)·JournalOptica·DateJul 25, 2017
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.

Molecular 'pulleys' help boost battery performance

Researchers used polyrotaxane to create a silicon anode that expands and contracts more easily, boosting battery performance. The technique allows for high volumetric and energy densities similar to commercialized lithium-ion batteries.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateJul 20, 2017

Battery breakthrough using 2016 Nobel Prize molecule

A KAIST research team developed molecular pulley binders for high-capacity silicon anodes in lithium ion batteries, improving charge-discharge cycles. The innovative binding system, inspired by the 'mechanical bond' concept, enhances electrode stability and capacity retention.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalScience·DateJul 20, 2017

Non-toxic alternative for next-generation solar cells

A team of researchers from the University of Cambridge and the US has demonstrated a non-toxic alternative to lead for use in next-generation solar cells, using bismuth oxyiodide. The material shows comparable performance to current silicon-based solar cells, with efficiencies up to 22%.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 18, 2017
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Cosmic 'dust factory' reveals clues to how stars are born

Scientists at Cardiff University have discovered new molecules, including formylium and sulphur monoxide, within the remnants of Supernova 1987A. This suggests that supernovae can create clouds of molecules and dust at extremely cold temperatures, similar to those in stellar nurseries where stars are born.

SourceCardiff University·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateJul 10, 2017

Three-dimensional chip combines computing and data storage

Researchers at MIT and Stanford developed a 3D chip that integrates computing and data storage, overcoming communication bottlenecks. The chip uses carbon nanotubes and RRAM cells, enabling dense and fine-grained integration of computating and data storage.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateJul 5, 2017

Johns Hopkins scientists develop super-strong metal for next tech frontier

Researchers have successfully developed a new material that promises to improve the strength and durability of microscopic sensors. The alloy, made from nickel, molybdenum, and tungsten, exhibits extraordinary properties, including high tensile strength three times greater than high-strength steel.

SourceJohns Hopkins University·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 28, 2017

Holey pattern boosts coherence of nanomechanical membrane vibrations

Researchers created a nanomechanical resonator that confines vibrations to a small region, boosting coherence and achieving unprecedented Q-factors. This enables new generations of quantum sensors and force microscopy, with potential applications in probing quantum limits and molecular resolution imaging.

SourceUniversity of Copenhagen - Faculty of Science·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 22, 2017
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.

Biologists have explored how testate amoebae survive in peat fires

A research team from China University of Geosciences and Lomonosov Moscow State University studied the impact of wildfire on testate amoebae. They found that fire led to significant changes in the structure of testate amoeba communities, with some microorganisms surviving while others died.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalApplied Soil Ecology·DateJun 16, 2017

Engineer unveils new spin on future of transistors with novel design

Engineer Dr. Joseph S. Friedman designs a novel computing system made solely from carbon that might replace silicon transistors in electronics. The resulting all-carbon spin logic proposal enables cascaded logic gates with increased performance and potential terahertz clock speeds.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 5, 2017

Nanosized silicon heater and thermometer combined to fight cancer

Scientists have found a biocompatible material in silicon that can heat up quickly and signal its temperature through Raman scattering. The nanoparticles are more efficient than gold at converting laser radiation into heat, making them a potential cheaper alternative to metal-based treatments.

SourceITMO University·JournalNano Letters·DateJun 1, 2017
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Hafnia dons a new face

A team of researchers has found a way to achieve the highly sought-after tetragonal phase of hafnia, a material for computer chips and transistors, at 1100 degrees Fahrenheit. This breakthrough could lead to more powerful and efficient electronics.

SourceUniversity of Kentucky·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 12, 2017

Stenciling with atoms in 2-dimensional materials possible

Scientists at Penn State report breakthroughs in stenciling 2D materials with atomic precision, enabling new chip functionality and overcoming substrate effects. The simple technique involves exposing photoresist to UV light and washing away exposed areas, allowing precise placement of high-quality materials.

SourcePenn State·Journal2D Materials·DateMay 1, 2017
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.

Graphene 'copy machine' may produce cheap semiconductor wafers

MIT engineers developed a technique using graphene to transfer crystalline patterns onto semiconductor wafers, reducing wafer costs and opening opportunities for exotic materials. The method allows manufacturers to copy and peel off semiconducting layers, reusing the original wafer multiple times.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateApr 19, 2017

Making batteries from waste glass bottles

Researchers at UCR's Bourns College of Engineering turned waste glass bottles into nanosilicon anodes for high-performance lithium-ion batteries. The new battery technology stores more energy, charges faster, and is more stable than commercial coin cell batteries.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 19, 2017

Tiny black holes enable a new type of photodetector for high speed data

Researchers at UC Davis and W&WSens Devices, Inc. developed a new type of photodetector that uses tapered holes to divert photons sideways, preserving the speed of thin-layer silicon and efficiency of thicker layers. The device can convert data from optical to electronics at 20 gigabytes per second, outperforming existing technology.

SourceUniversity of California - Davis·JournalNature Photonics·DateApr 3, 2017

Researchers 'iron out' graphene's wrinkles

Engineers at MIT have created a method to iron out wrinkles in graphene, producing uniform performance and increasing its electrical conductivity. The technique enables the mass production of single-domain graphene wafer-scale, paving the way for faster electronic devices.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateApr 3, 2017
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.

Nanotube film may resolve longevity problem of challenger solar cells

Researchers from Aalto University have developed a nanotube film that can replace traditional materials in perovskite solar cells, improving their stability and lifetime. The new material has conductivity as high as possible and can be made transparent and thin, making it suitable for use as the front contact of the cell.

SourceAalto University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateMar 17, 2017

Transparent ceramics make super-hard windows

Researchers at DESY synthesised the first transparent sample of cubic silicon nitride, a popular industrial ceramic that can withstand extreme temperatures and pressures. The new material has potential industrial applications in engines and other high-performance industries.

SourceDeutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron DESY·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 17, 2017

Using lasers to create ultra-short pulses

Researchers at FAU successfully generate electron packets with lengths of 1.3 femtoseconds, enabling imaging of atomic movements on ultra-short time scales. The method uses laser-controlled acceleration, deceleration, and deflection of electrons, paving the way for ultra-high resolution electron microscopes.

SourceFriedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 15, 2017
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Polymer-coated silicon nanosheets -- an alternative to graphene

Researchers at TUM have produced a composite material combining silicon nanosheets and a polymer, creating a stable material with remarkable optoelectronic properties. The polymer-coated silicon nanosheets show promise for applications in flexible displays, field-effect transistors, photodetectors, and rechargeable lithium batteries.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·DateMar 8, 2017

Waste silicon sawdust recycled into anode for lithium-ion battery

Scientists have developed a method to recycle unwanted Si sawdust into high-capacity and durable LIBs with capacities up to 3.3 times larger than conventional graphite. The proposed recycling process has the potential to be mass-produced at a reasonably low cost.

SourceTohoku University·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 20, 2017

The ultimate green technology

A team of scientists at the University of Alberta has successfully applied atomic force microscopy to pattern and image electronic circuits at the atomic level. This breakthrough could lead to the development of ultra-fast and ultra-low-power silicon-based circuits, potentially revolutionizing the technology industry.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 13, 2017

Towards new IT devices with stable and transformable solitons

Researchers at IBS demonstrate manipulation of solitons, leading to the development of quaternary mathematical systems and potentially more efficient information storage. This breakthrough paves the way for new IT devices that combine silicon and solitons.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Physics·DateFeb 6, 2017
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.

PPPL scientist uncovers physics behind plasma-etching process

Physicist Igor Kaganovich and collaborators discovered the physics driving plasma etching, a technique powering electronic devices. The research found that electrically charged gas plasma enhances etching efficiency by creating strong plasma waves.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·JournalPhysics of Plasmas·DateJan 27, 2017
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.

Rolling out an e-sticker revolution

Researchers at KAUST develop a process to print high-performance silicon-based computers on soft, sticker-like surfaces for flexible electronics. Decal electronics enable easy integration of device components into compliant systems.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 3, 2017

Electron-photon small-talk could have big impact on quantum computing

Scientists have successfully built a device that allows a single electron to communicate with a photon, paving the way for more efficient quantum computing. This breakthrough enables quantum information to be transferred between electrons and photons, reducing noise and increasing performance.

SourcePrinceton University·JournalScience·DateDec 22, 2016

3-D solutions to energy savings in silicon power transistors

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have developed a new method to scale down the size of silicon insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs), achieving significant energy savings through reduced ON resistance. By reducing mesa width, gate length, and oxide thickness, they increased the injection enhancement effect and decrease...

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·DateDec 5, 2016

Making graphene using laser-induced phase separation

Scientists at IBS & KAIST create a new method for producing graphene using laser annealing technology, which can separate complex compounds like SiC into ultrathin elements of carbon and silicon. The technique reaches the same results as traditional methods but at lower temperatures, making it more efficient and scalable.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 1, 2016
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.

Bringing silicon to life

Researchers at Caltech use directed evolution to persuade bacteria to create silicon-carbon bonds, which are found in pharmaceuticals, agricultural chemicals, and computer screens. The new process has the potential to be more environmentally friendly and less expensive than current methods.

SourceCalifornia Institute of Technology·JournalScience·DateNov 24, 2016

Bringing carbon-silicon bonds to life

Researchers successfully created a catalyst that efficiently forms carbon-silicon bonds, which were previously thought impossible. The breakthrough enables the production of a wide range of silicon products.

SourceAmerican Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)·JournalScience·DateNov 24, 2016

New way to make low-cost solar cell technology

Researchers at Australian National University have developed a new way to fabricate high-efficiency semi-transparent perovskite solar cells, which can improve the performance of conventional silicon solar cells. The new fabrication method could increase power output by up to 25% and achieve efficiencies of up to 30%.

SourceAustralian National University·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·DateNov 14, 2016

Possible reason for carcinogenicity of silica dust found

Researchers found that normal atmospheric conditions lead to the formation of oxygen-enriched silica nanoparticles with magnetic properties. These reactive oxygen species have been linked to cancer and may explain the known carcinogenicity of silica dust. The study provides a possible explanation for the high toxicity of silica dust.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalNanoscale·DateNov 10, 2016
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.

New method increases energy density in lithium batteries

A new trilayer structure developed by Yuan Yang increases energy density in lithium batteries by 10-30%, allowing for longer operation times. The method stabilizes the battery even in ambient air, reducing costs and manufacturing time.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalNano Letters·DateOct 24, 2016

Rheological and emulsification behavior of Xinjiang heavy oil and model oils

This study compares the rheological properties, oil-water interfacial tensions, and emulsion stability of Xinjiang crude oil and two common model oils. The results show that white mineral oil and crude oil are pseudo plastic fluids, while silicon oil is a Newtonian fluid.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalThe Open Fuels & Energy Science Journal·DateOct 24, 2016

From ancient fossils to future cars

Researchers have created a low-cost, high-energy lithium-ion battery anode material using diatomaceous earth, paving the way for more sustainable and efficient electric vehicle batteries. The discovery could lead to improved adoption of electric vehicles by reducing costs and increasing energy storage capacity.

SourceUniversity of California - Riverside·JournalScientific Reports·DateOct 20, 2016

Obtaining of silicon nanowires becomes eco-friendly

Researchers from Lomonosov Moscow State University have developed a new, eco-friendly method for obtaining silicon nanowires, replacing hydrofluoric acid with ammonium fluoride. The produced nanowires show promising applications in micro- and optoelectronics, photonics, PV, sensorics, and biomedicine.

SourceLomonosov Moscow State University·JournalNanoscale Research Letters·DateOct 18, 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 computers: 10-fold boost in stability achieved

Australian engineers have created a new quantum bit called the 'dressed qubit' which retains quantum information for much longer than previously achieved, opening up new avenues to build and operate powerful quantum computers. The result is a 10-fold improvement in the time span during which quantum superposition can be preserved.

SourceUniversity of New South Wales·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateOct 17, 2016

Smallest. Transistor. Ever.

Researchers at Berkeley Lab break major barrier in transistor size by creating a gate only 1-nanometer long, challenging the conventional 5-nanometer threshold. The achievement enables electrons to be controlled with smaller gate lengths using carbon nanotubes and molybdenum disulfide.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateOct 6, 2016

Researchers use novel materials to build smallest transistor

Scientists at UT Dallas developed a tiny transistor with a gate size of 1 nanometer, smaller than the current limit of silicon-based transistors. The new device uses transition metal dichalcogenides, reducing leakage current by over two orders of magnitude and potential power consumption.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Dallas·JournalScience·DateOct 6, 2016