Platinum-rich shell, platinum-poor core
A team of researchers developed a new class of electrocatalyst that outperforms pure platinum in reducing oxygen. The catalyst features nanoparticles with a platinum-rich shell and a copper-cobalt core.
Alloys
Articles tagged with Alloys
Engineers perfecting hydrogen-generating technology
The technology produces hydrogen by adding water to an alloy of aluminum and gallium, with the gallium component hindering the formation of an oxide skin that prevents oxygen from reacting with aluminum. This allows for the reaction to continue until all the aluminum is used to generate hydrogen on demand.
Rolls-Royce acquires license to use Iowa State discovery that improves jet engines
Researchers at Iowa State University developed a coating technology that improves the heat resistance of turbine blades in jet engines. Rolls-Royce has acquired exclusive rights to commercialize the invention, which is expected to provide significant advantages over existing coatings.
Removing a hydrogen fuel-cell roadblock
The team is developing materials with similar properties to palladium, but cheaper and more readily available, to improve the efficiency of hydrogen fuel cells. The goal is to find a substitute for platinum, which is currently used as a catalyst in PEMs containing platinum.
Alloy of hydrogen and oxygen made from water
Scientists have successfully dissociated water at high pressure to form a solid mixture of molecular oxygen and molecular hydrogen, creating an alloy. The researchers used x-rays to cleave the O-H bonds in water, resulting in a stable alloy that withstood various tests.
New 'metal sandwich' may break superconductor record, theory suggests
Duke University researchers propose a new 'metal sandwich' alloy that could be superconductive at a higher temperature than current materials. Lithium monoboride, a binary alloy of boron and lithium, may have the potential to break the record for highest superconducting temperature.
The nanoworld of corrosion
Researchers from Max Planck Institute and European Synchrotron Radiation Facility study gold-copper alloy corrosion process, revealing protective surface layer and gold nano-islands. The discovery provides insights into preventing corrosion in alloys used in corrosive environments.
Ames Laboratory innovation key to a 'lead-free' Europe
The European Union's ban on lead in electronic appliances has led to the widespread adoption of Ames Laboratory's lead-free solder, which was patented in 1996. The solder blend of tin-silver-copper alloy offers a lower melting temperature and greater strength than other alternatives.
£6m to develop new class of light alloys
A £6m grant has been awarded to develop new methods for processing, forming, joining, and surface engineering of aluminium, titanium, and magnesium. The project aims to create lighter, more environmentally-friendly vehicles using these materials.
NIST seeking cure for electronics-killing whiskers
Researchers identify columnar grain boundaries as cause of whisker and hillock formation. Alternative electroplating method aims to disrupt these structures, reducing environmental hazards and improving component reliability.
'Quasicrystal' metal computer model could aid ultra-low-friction machine parts
Researchers at Duke University developed a computer model to study the effect of adsorbed gas on quasicrystal alloys, which could lead to improved low-friction properties for machine parts. The model suggests ways to control the transition from quasicrystalline to crystalline structures, preserving the alloy's high lubricity.
To make stronger platinum jewelry, add a little chromium
Student researcher Christopher Kovalchick used a low-cost technique to test tiny samples of four metal alloys and found that combining platinum with chromium resulted in the greatest strength. The findings are important because pure platinum is too soft for use in durable jewelry, but adding chromium improves its mechanical properties.
Alternatives to conventional solder help electronics manufacturers get the lead out
Researchers have made significant progress in developing lead-free solders and electrically-conductive adhesives, offering environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional solder materials. However, challenges remain, including high processing temperatures and conductivity fatigue.
An-Pang Tsai wins inaugural Dubois Award
An-Pang Tsai wins inaugural Dubois Award for his remarkable string of discoveries of new quasicrystalline phases, including five main families. His work has had a profound impact on the science of quasicrystals, enabling the preparation of large samples and fundamental property measurements.
'Brick wall' helps explain how corrosion spreads through alloy
Scientists have created a model that simulates how corrosion spreads through an alloy, inspired by the cracking of a brick wall. The research could help predict when preventive maintenance is needed for aircraft materials.
Tiny iron supplement has chilling effect
A small amount of iron adds 15-30% to the effective cooling capacity of a material, enabling improved near-room-temperature applications. The iron supplement eliminates hysteresis losses, allowing the material to perform at its peak potential.
Purdue engineers: Metal nano-bumps could improve artificial body parts
Researchers at Purdue University have created a new type of metal alloy with nanometer-scale bumps that can stimulate the body to regrow bone and other tissues. This technology has the potential to improve artificial body parts, such as hip replacements, by reducing the rate of rejection and failure.
Brookhaven Lab researchers develop a new method for producing electrodes
Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed a new method for producing electrodes, allowing for the creation of novel alloy compositions and improving electrochemical reaction rates. The method uses hydrogen to form nanocomposite materials, making it more effective and practical than traditional methods.
Scientists discover formula for long-life rechargeable batteries
Brookhaven National Laboratory scientists have developed a cobalt-free alloy that can store more charge and resist corrosion, leading to longer battery life. The discovery could lead to more affordable electric vehicles.
University of Cincinnati engineers find new way to spot cracks in aging aircraft
Researchers have combined laser heating and ultrasonic inspection to improve the detection of fatigue cracks in aircraft parts. The new method is more accurate than previous methods, but also more time-consuming and expensive.
Tougher Than Silicon
Researchers have created an alloy that can handle high-power and high-frequency microelectronic devices better than pure silicon-carbide. The alloy conducts twice as much current, making it a promising material for next-generation electronics.
Superplasticity May Work Better In Smaller Packages
Researchers at UC Davis report a significant breakthrough in superplasticity, achieving the ability to stretch metal without breaking at lower temperatures. The discovery involves using nanostructured materials, which are 1,000 times smaller than microcrystals, resulting in stronger and more practical materials.
For First Time In 40 Years National Jewish Researchers Report Chronic Beryllium Disease Caused By Extremely Low Levels Of Exposure
Researchers at National Jewish Health found cases of chronic beryllium disease in two people exposed to 2 percent beryllium copper alloy, a product used in toasters, bicycles, and electronics. Chronic beryllium disease is caused by inhaling beryllium dust into the lungs, leading to lung scarring and oxygen transfer issues.
True Grit: "Sandpaper" Alloy May Suggest Rugged, Powerful New Devices, UD Researcher Reports
Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a novel alloy of silicon-carbide and germanium that may handle hot, high-power microelectronic and MEMS devices better than silicon. The material also shows promise for enhancing the speed and stability of next-generation silicon-germanium chips.
Metal Injection For Healthier Car Components
The new technology allows manufacturers to produce complex shapes out of high-strength and high-performance metals and alloys. Metal injection moulded parts are finding use in various industries, including office equipment, industrial machines, medical appliances, and household goods.
Dual X-Ray Technique Analyzes Structure Of Dental Alloys
A combination of XPS and XRD techniques reveals complex near-surface structures of oxidized palladium alloys, showing chemically bound water and microcrystals of gold and copper. The research provides new information on the mechanical properties and adherence to dental porcelain.
Diamond Find: Carbon, Plus Germanium, Helps Silicon 'Shine,' UD Researchers Say
University of Delaware researchers have developed a silicon-based device that can convert some light into electricity using a germanium-carbon alloy. The device, which was tested with laser light, showed a conversion rate of 1.4 percent and demonstrated efficient rectification numbers. This breakthrough has the potential to bridge the ...