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Harnessing GeSn semiconductors for tomorrow's quantum world

Researchers have discovered remarkable spin-related material properties of Germanium-Tin (GeSn) semiconductors, which may offer advantages over conventional materials in quantum computing and spintronics. GeSn alloys provide low in-plane heavy hole effective mass, large g-factor, and anisotropy, making them promising for qubits and low...

SourceTohoku University·JournalCommunications Materials·DateOct 6, 2025

Machine learning potential-driven insights into pH-dependent CO₂ reduction

A team of researchers at Tohoku University's AIMR used machine learning potential to characterize Sn catalyst activity, identifying the most effective catalysts for CO2 reduction. The study provides novel insights into the behavior of Sn-based catalysts and could lead to more efficient fuel production.

Researchers uncover key insights into CO₂ reduction using SnO-based electrocatalysts

A study by the Advanced Institute for Materials Research found that tin monoxide (SnO) electrocatalysts can produce both formic acid and carbon monoxide in significant amounts. The research team identified key structural changes that influence product distribution, providing insights into optimizing electrocatalyst performance.

Rice engineers tackle hard-to-map class of materials

Researchers have developed a new technique to understand the relationship between atomic structure and electric polarization in 2D van der Waals ferroelectric materials. This discovery is expected to revolutionize domain engineering in these materials, positioning them as fundamental building blocks for advanced devices.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 4, 2023

Highly transparent electrodes for deep-UV light emitting diode applications

Scientists from Tokyo Metropolitan University have developed a new electrode material for deep-ultraviolet light-emitting diode applications, combining excellent electrical conductivity with unprecedented transparency. The new electrodes promise to impact industry by enabling more efficient and compact light sources for sterilization p...

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateJan 21, 2023

Empires and entrepreneurs

Researchers analyzed metal ingots from a 14th century B.C. shipwreck to understand the origins of copper and tin used in bronze production. The study found that two-thirds of the tin came from Turkey, contradicting previous assumptions about its source.

SourceJuniata College·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 30, 2022

Carbon-neutralizing propylene production catalyzes change in petrochemical engineering

Researchers at Hokkaido University have developed a new catalyst that uses carbon dioxide to produce propylene more efficiently than existing methods. The catalyst also captures and converts carbon dioxide into useful resources. This breakthrough contributes to the carbon neutralization of the petrochemical industry.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 26, 2022

Surprising turbulence

Researchers at HZDR simulated liquid metal flow behavior and found that turbulence under certain conditions leads to reduced heat transport. This finding has implications for battery technology and our understanding of the Earth's core.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2022

Construction workers at risk of unintentionally exposing families to multiple toxic metals

A new study reveals that construction workers are at high risk of tracking multiple toxic metals into their homes, including arsenic, chromium, and lead. The study found a range of factors, such as lack of work lockers and poor hygiene practices, can impact metal concentrations in home dust.

SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalEnvironmental Research·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 18, 2022

A computationally quick approach to predict molten droplet solidification on a solid surface

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science developed a computationally quick approach to predict molten droplet solidification on a solid surface. The model simulates the solidification process by considering the droplet behavior and heat transfer between the hotter droplet and cooler surface, replicating experiments with high accuracy.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 12, 2021

Microplastics: A trojan horse for metals

Researchers have discovered that microplastics can serve as a transport vehicle for metals in the environment, accumulating and releasing these pollutants. The study found significant differences in metal accumulation between different types of plastics, with some metals attaching almost entirely to microplastics.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Hereon·JournalJournal of Hazardous Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 9, 2021

The future of semiconductors is clear

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have created a tin dioxide semiconductor with the highest mobility ever reported, enabling more efficient solar panels and touch-sensitive displays. This breakthrough could lead to improved transparency and conductivity in materials, benefiting various industries.

SourceUniversity of Tokyo·JournalScientific Reports·DateApr 22, 2020

High-efficiency laser for silicon chips

Scientists have created a compatible semiconductor laser made of germanium and tin, with efficiency comparable to conventional GaAs semiconductor lasers on Si. The new laser can be manufactured during the CMOS production process, reducing waste heat and enabling continuous operation.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Photonics·DateMar 24, 2020

The enigma of Bronze Age tin

Researchers use natural sciences methods to determine geographic origin of Bronze Age tin artifacts from Israel, Turkey, and Greece, disproving Central Asian source and confirming Europe as the origin of ingots. The study highlights complex trade networks between Europe and Eastern Mediterranean during the Bronze Age.

SourceHeidelberg University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateSep 13, 2019

High-efficiency thermoelectric materials: New insights into tin selenide

Researchers have identified a new thermoelectric material in tin selenide, which can convert 20% of heat into electrical energy, exceeding the efficiency of bismuth telluride. The material's crystal structure changes at high temperatures or pressures, producing a semi-metallic state that enhances its thermoelectric properties.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateApr 24, 2019

Scientists boost stability of low-cost, large-area solar modules

Researchers at OIST Graduate University have developed a new perovskite solar cell design that improves stability and scalability, enabling the creation of low-cost, large-area solar modules. The devices achieved an efficiency of over 20% and demonstrated their viability for commercialization in the near future.