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Flexy, flat and functional magnets

Researchers have discovered a new class of 2D magnetic materials with promising applications in electronics. These ultra-thin layers exhibit unique properties, such as ferromagnetism, antiferromagnetism, and magnetism control, which can be manipulated electrically or optically.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature·DateOct 31, 2018

Mussel-inspired defect engineering enhances the mechanical strength of graphene fibers

Researchers applied polydopamine as an infiltrate binder to achieve high mechanical and electrical properties in graphene-based liquid crystalline fibers. The bio-inspired defect engineering overcomes the limitations of conventional graphene fibers, making it suitable for flexible electronics, textiles, and wearable sensors.

Arsenic for electronics

Scientists have successfully modified arsenene with chloromethylene groups, improving its semiconducting properties. The modified material exhibits strong luminescence and electronic properties, making it attractive for optoelectronic applications.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateOct 15, 2018

A human enzyme can biodegrade graphene

Researchers found that myeloperoxidase can degrade both single-layer and few-layer graphene, opening up new avenues for developing biodegradable graphene-based materials. This discovery is crucial for ensuring the safe use of graphene in biomedical applications.

SourceGraphene Flagship·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateAug 23, 2018

Nanotube 'rebar' makes graphene twice as tough

Rice University researchers discovered that graphene reinforced with carbon nanotubes 'rebar' can withstand twice the stress of pristine graphene, making it more suitable for flexible electronics. The study demonstrated how rebar helps bridge cracks in graphene under strain.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateAug 3, 2018

A new 'periodic table' for nanomaterials

Researchers created a machine learning technique to categorize different molecules based on the nano-sized shapes they form. The approach could help materials scientists identify suitable precursor molecules for synthesizing target nanomaterials.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 23, 2018

In borophene, boundaries are no barrier

Researchers at Rice and Northwestern universities discovered how different lattice arrangements of borophene can combine into new crystal-like forms, exhibiting metallic properties and unique electronic structure. The findings suggest potential applications in flexible and transparent electronic interconnects, electrodes, and displays.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 16, 2018

New study finds folding graphene significantly enhances mechanical performance

Researchers found that folding graphene significantly enhances its mechanical properties, leading to increased stiffness, strength, and toughness in polymer composites. The folded structure can sustain larger bending forces compared to stacked layers, making it an efficient strategy for incorporating large-area monolayer graphene films.

Manipulating single atoms with an electron beam

Scientists at the University of Vienna have successfully manipulated individual silicon impurity atoms in graphene with atomic precision, recording nearly 300 controlled jumps. This achievement enables potential high-density data storage and demonstrates the control of single atoms in two-dimensional materials.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 9, 2018

Biosensor chip detects single nucleotide polymorphism wirelessly, with higher sensitivity

A team at the University of California San Diego has developed a wireless chip that can detect genetic mutations, including single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), in real-time. The chip is at least 1,000 times more sensitive than current technology and could lead to cheaper, faster, and portable biosensors for early disease detection.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJul 9, 2018

MXene's tour de force

Researchers at Drexel University have found MXene to be the strongest material of its kind, with a high elastic modulus. The material's durability and strength make it suitable for applications such as composite materials, protective coatings, and membranes.

SourceDrexel University·JournalScience Advances·DateJun 15, 2018

A sprinkle of platinum nanoparticles onto graphene makes brain probes more sensitive

Researchers at UC San Diego developed a technique to engineer graphene electrodes with low impedance and transparency. This allows for simultaneous recording of neuronal activity and high-quality imaging of brain cell activity in transgenic mice. The technology brings graphene electrodes closer to being adapted into next-generation bra...

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJun 14, 2018

Sculpting with graphene foam

Researchers create 3D laser-induced graphene (LIG) foam with excellent performance in lithium-ion capacitors, exceeding graphite's theoretical limit. The process is easily scaled and scalable to complex shapes using a custom-built fiber lasing system.

SourceRice University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJun 14, 2018

Turbocharge for lithium batteries

Scientists have developed a new anode material for lithium-ion batteries that can store more energy and charge faster. The hybrid material combines tin oxide nanoparticles with antimony on a graphene base, improving stability and conductivity.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJun 11, 2018

Unzipping graphene nanotubes into nanoribbons

Researchers have developed a method to analyze electron flow in graphene nanoribbons using a simplified physics model. This approach uses a matching method to calculate transmission properties of electrons through the junction.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal B·DateJun 5, 2018