Add BrightSurf on Google Email

Switched on IR-active organic pigments

Researchers developed a modular organic molecular system with customizable properties, creating a potent dye that absorbs light in the near-infrared range. The pigments' electronic switchability makes them suitable for studying electron transfer in photosynthesis and as efficient electron-transporting materials.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021

Scientists synthesize a material which can completely replace natural gypsum in the construction industry

Researchers develop method to produce high-quality gypsum binders from synthetic calcium sulfate dihydrate, surpassing natural gypsum in several parameters. The new material can replace natural gypsum in countries without gypsum stone deposits, reducing production costs and simplifying technology.

SourceNational University of Science and Technology MISIS·JournalJournal of Industrial and Engineering Chemistry·DateJul 30, 2021

Skoltech researchers developed an enriched method for increasing the capacity of next-generation metal-ion battery cathode materials

Researchers at Skoltech have developed an enriched approach to boost the capacity of next-generation metal-ion battery cathode materials, applicable to lithium-ion and alternative batteries. The scalable method uses reducing agents, which can be recycled after use, making it suitable for large-scale applications.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateMay 17, 2021

Blueprint for a robust quantum future

Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory and international partners have developed guidelines for discovering new defect-based quantum systems, which could lead to breakthroughs in quantum communications, sensing, and computing. The guidelines provide a framework for designing qubits tailored to specific applications.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Reviews Materials·DateApr 29, 2021

AI agent helps identify material properties faster

A team of researchers has developed an AI agent called Crystallography Companion Agent (XCA) to analyze X-ray diffraction data and identify material properties faster. The agent collaborates with scientists to perform autonomous phase identifications, overcoming traditional neuronal network overconfidence.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalNature Computational Science·DateApr 20, 2021

Researchers first to link silicon atoms on surfaces

A team of researchers from the University of Münster has developed a highly efficient method to produce silicon polymers using surface chemistry. The breakthrough allows for the creation of long polymers with mild reaction conditions, paving the way for new material properties and potential applications as organic semi-conductors.

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Chemistry·DateMar 29, 2021

Moiré than meets the eye

Carbon nanotubes have been engineered to produce moiré patterns, which could enhance material properties. The researchers' breakthrough has significant implications for the development of superconducting materials with improved performance.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 10, 2021

Electrons living on the edge

Scientists used theoretical calculations to predict electronic states in topological insulators excited with laser beams, generating Dirac states that can act as if massless. This discovery may pave the way for new computers systems that waste less energy.

SourceUniversity of Tsukuba·JournalScientific Reports·DateFeb 17, 2021

X-Ray tomography lets researchers watch solid-state batteries charge, discharge

A research team observed internal evolution of materials in solid-state lithium batteries using X-ray tomography. The operando synchrotron imaging revealed how dynamic changes at electrode interfaces determine battery behavior. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for improving the reliability and performance of solid-state batteries.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 28, 2021

Material for future electronics: New method makes graphene nanoribbons easier to produce

Russian researchers have proposed a new synthesis method for high-quality graphene nanoribbons, which has a higher yield and is cheaper than the current method. The new approach uses nickel as a substrate and produces multilayer films of nanoribbons, which can be easily separated into individual monolayers.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateJan 11, 2021

DFG to fund 7 new Research Units

The DFG is establishing seven new Research Units to investigate topics such as gender-specific differences in immune responses and the development of more resistant dental prostheses. The units will receive a total of €25 million, with five teams funded for up to two four-year periods and two others for two three-year periods.

A standout superalloy

Researchers developed a new class of high-strength, defect-resistant superalloys that can be 3D-printed with minimal material waste. The nickel-based alloys overcome cracking issues in traditional AM processes, making them suitable for complex one-off components in extreme environments.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 8, 2020

Ten chemistry start-ups to watch

The American Chemical Society has unveiled its annual list of 10 promising chemistry start-ups, focusing on innovative solutions for drug discovery, waste recycling, sustainable materials, and quantum computing. Companies like Aryballe and Evrnu are developing groundbreaking technologies to address pressing global challenges.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateNov 18, 2020

Metal-organic frameworks become flexible

Researchers from TUM and RUB have developed flexible MOFs by adding carbon arms to the organic connecting pieces, allowing them to maintain their shape under pressure. The material's behavior is driven by configurational entropy, which enables it to transform between open-pored and closed-pore structures.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateNov 17, 2020

Boosted signal

Researchers at UC Santa Barbara have developed a new approach to boost NMR signal detection in previously 'invisible' regions. By using dynamic nuclear polarization with transition metal vanadium, they have created hyperfine DNP spectroscopy, which offers a broader frequency range and can analyze local chemistry around transition metals.

The chemistry behind self-driving cars

A new article explains how chemistry can help develop materials necessary for fully autonomous vehicles, including efficient batteries and structural materials. Safety features such as sensors and nonstick coatings are also crucial to reducing maintenance and enhancing safety.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemical & Engineering News·DateOct 28, 2020

Highly selective membranes

A team of researchers from the University of Tokyo has discovered a feedback system between water molecules that opens up new design possibilities for highly selective membranes. These membranes, which can filter out viruses and other contaminants, could also be used to improve lithium-ion battery performance.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 20, 2020