Material Properties
Articles tagged with Material Properties
Smarter search for fuel-cell catalysts using machine learning
Researchers have developed a new computational workflow combining generative AI with atomistic simulations to identify promising platinum alloy catalyst structures for hydrogen fuel cells. The method produces high-performing candidates from several material combinations, addressing a longstanding challenge in catalyst design.
Move over cassette tapes, adhesive tape has memory, too
Ordinary adhesive tape stores a sequence of multiple memories with tunable strength, allowing for simple mechanical calculations. Researchers developed an automated device to create these memories by peeling the tape past designated distances.
The hidden structure behind a widely used class of materials
A team of researchers from MIT has directly characterized the three-dimensional atomic structure of a relaxor ferroelectric for the first time. This breakthrough provides a framework for refining models used to design next-generation computing, energy, and sensing devices.
A new strategy for synthesizing polyfunctionalized biaryls without transition-metal catalysts
Researchers develop substrate design strategy to selectively promote benzidine-type sigmatropic rearrangement of nitroarenes, enabling efficient synthesis of polyfunctionalized biaryls. The method achieves high yields without expensive transition-metal catalysts or complex prefunctionalization.
Toward tougher, longer-lasting, more sustainable tires
Harvard engineers develop new method to preserve long molecular chains in natural rubber, resulting in composite materials that are both stiff and tough. The innovation has the potential to cut waste, reduce tire dust pollution, and open new avenues for high-performance elastomers.
Arsenic trisulfide (As2S3): A “photosensitive clay” for nano-optics, shaped by a simple laser
Researchers have discovered a novel optical material, arsenic trisulfide (As2S3), that can be permanently modified by light and sculpted at the nanoscale level. This material exhibits an unusually large light-induced refractive-index change, enabling the creation of extremely fine optical fingerprints.
New physics-based AI model opens frontiers in dielectric materials exploration
Researchers at Tohoku University developed an AI-based method integrating physics-based modeling for rapid screening of material candidates. The approach significantly improves accuracy by evaluating basic properties before predicting complex ones.
The once-theoretical skyrmion could unlock supercomputing memory
Researchers have discovered a new understanding of skyrmions, highly stable structures that can be moved with minimal electrical current. This breakthrough has significant implications for nanocomputing and the development of ultra-power-saving devices.
Materials that learn to change shape
Scientists at the University of Amsterdam have developed metamaterials that learn and adapt without a central brain, allowing them to change shape and perform advanced tasks. These 'smart' materials can forget old shapes and learn new ones, enabling them to evolve and perform complex tasks.
“Perfectly symmetrical” 2D perovskites boost energy transport
Rice University scientists have created a new type of two-dimensional semiconductor that exhibits no distortions, allowing for efficient energy transfer. The material's performance is an order of magnitude better than previously reported perovskites, making it suitable for applications such as solar cells and tandem devices.
Crushing soda cans and the mathematics of corrugation formation
Scientists at the University of Manchester discovered a rare mathematical process underlying the formation of corrugations in soda cans. The sequence of buckles follows homoclinic snaking, a phenomenon where bumps or ripples appear one by one in a precise order.
Laser-etched ‘synthetic skin’ defies -50°c and weak sunlight to eliminate extreme ice
Researchers have created a dark, rubbery film that combines physical textures with light-absorbing nanotubes to keep surfaces ice-free at -50 °C. The film operates using a two-tier defense mechanism, providing both passive and active anti-de-icing capabilities.
Large area MoS₂ reduces energy loss in magnetic memory films
Researchers at the University of Manchester found that large-area MoS₂ reduces energy loss in magnetic memory films by altering the film's internal crystal structure. This effect is not confined to laboratory-scale samples and has implications for real, scalable spintronic technologies.
Hybrid ‘super foam’: tunable, lightweight and ultra-durable
Researchers at Texas A&M University and DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory developed a hybrid foam with a 3D-printed plastic skeleton, offering tunable, lightweight and ultra-durable properties. The composite combines ordinary foam with plastic struts, allowing it to absorb more energy and withstand greater forces.
Photocatalytic material class: High expectations reinforced
Researchers from CASUS at HZDR developed a reliable computational framework to study polyheptazine imides' electronic and optical properties. This work confirms the potential of these materials for photocatalytic reactions, including water splitting and carbon dioxide reduction.
New technique spots hidden defects to boost reliability of ultrathin electronics
Researchers at Rice University have developed a new technique to spot hidden defects in ultrathin electronics, which can trap electrical charges and weaken the material. This method uses electron microscopy, cathodoluminescence mapping, and force-based measurements to detect defects before they undermine device performance.
The physics of a squeak
A team of researchers used high-speed imaging to investigate soft solids sliding on rigid substrates, discovering that squeaking emerges from supersonic detachment pulses. The study found a relationship between surface geometry and the repetition rate of these pulses, impacting frictional resistance.
Jeonbuk National University researchers develop an innovative prussian-blue based electrode for effective and efficient cesium removal
Researchers at Jeonbuk National University have developed a new Prussian-blue based electrode that can effectively remove cesium from water. The electrode, made by combining Prussian blue with chemically treated carbon cloth, demonstrates high capacity for cesium adsorption and excellent reusability.
Extreme heat strengthens of pure metals
Researchers at Northwestern University found that heat strengthens pure metals under extreme conditions, challenging long-held assumptions. The study revealed a stark divide between pure and alloyed metals, with pure metals becoming stronger and harder as temperatures increased.
Breakthrough proton-conducting ceramic material for clean energy
A new ceramic material overcomes long-standing limits in proton conductivity, achieving record-high performance at intermediate temperatures. The innovative donor co-doping strategy combines increased proton concentration and mobility with chemical stability under various environments.
From biocidal coatings to medicines: A nanocomposite sting for microorganisms
The B-STING silica nanocomposite acts as a nanofactory of reactive oxygen species, activating itself in response to changes in the chemical environment. This material can be used to create biocidal coatings that are safe, durable, and resistant to dirt, with potential applications in medicine and other industries.
Scientists engineer unsinkable metal tubes
Researchers at the University of Rochester create a new process to turn ordinary metal tubes unsinkable by etching micro- and nano-pits on their surface, making them superhydrophobic. The tubes stay afloat in water, even when damaged or submerged for extended periods.
Understanding unusual chirality-driven anomalous Hall effect via first-principles calculations
Researchers present novel theoretical framework explaining non-monotonic temperature dependence and sign reversal of chirality-related AHE in highly conductive metals. The study reveals clear picture of unusual transport phenomena, forming foundation for rational design of next-generation spintronic devices and magnetic quantum materials.
Flipping the switch on material chirality: Modifying chirality with electricity
Researchers at Institute of Science Tokyo have developed a method to manipulate material chirality using electricity, enabling reversible and tunable chiral electronic states. This approach opens new possibilities for advanced spintronic devices and the emerging field of 'chiral iontronics'.
Study: Simple wipe test finds invisible cancer-linked PFAs on firefighter gear
A new study has validated a non-destructive method to detect 'forever chemicals' on protective equipment, reducing the risk of cancer to firefighters. Researchers found PFAS in every set of firefighter gear examined, including breathing masks, with concentrations reaching hundreds of nanograms per gram.
Large language models unleash AI’s potential for autonomous and explainable materials discovery
Researchers developed MatAgent, an AI framework that leverages a large language model to design new inorganic materials. The system uses natural language reasoning and explains its decisions in plain language, making the design process more efficient and transparent.
Seeing inside smart gels: scientists capture dynamic behavior under stress
Researchers investigate poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) gel structure and function under mechanical forces and heat, revealing changes in electrical conductivity and internal structure. The study provides valuable insights for developing smart polymers and understanding their functional mechanisms.
Materials that match the brain: Rice engineer earns Sontag Foundation distinction
Christina Tringides' CHAMELEON project aims to develop soft, sensor-laden brain implants that can monitor and treat glioblastoma with greater precision. Her lab creates hydrogel-based arrays with conductive electrodes to track neural signals in real-time.
Korea University researchers create hydrogel platform for high-throughput extracellular vesicle isolation
Extracellular vesicles can mediate communication between cells and tissues, influencing processes like immune signaling and cancer progression. Researchers have developed a practical, scalable EV-isolation platform that operates without preprocessing steps or specialized equipment.
Study shows light can reshape atom-thin semiconductors for next-generation optical devices
Researchers at Rice University have discovered that light can trigger a physical shift in atomic lattice, creating tunable behavior and properties in transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) materials. This effect could advance technologies using light instead of electricity, such as faster computer chips and ultrasensitive sensors.
Cooling paint harvests water from thin air
Researchers developed a nanoengineered polymer coating that reflects sunlight and radiates heat, capturing atmospheric water vapour to create a sustainable source of fresh water. The technology can be integrated into paint-like materials for large-scale use, complementing existing systems and addressing global challenges.
Can smoother surfaces prevent hydrogen embrittlement?
Research finds that surface roughness influences the formation and size of hydrogen-related defects in iron, leading to a new approach to material design. The study provides fundamental understanding of hydrogen embrittlement mechanisms and could reduce life-cycle costs of hydrogen technologies.
Physics-based machine learning could unlock better 3D-printed materials
A new project aims to develop a computationally efficient model that accurately predicts how additive manufacturing process parameters influence the solidification microstructure of binary alloy solidification. This will enable optimization of additively manufactured parts with confidence in critical industries.
Turning rust into fuel: MANA advances green rust catalyst for next-gen hydrogen vehicles
Researchers from MANA develop a cost-effective, high-performance catalyst using green rust to support the use of sodium borohydride as a hydrogen storage material. The new catalyst achieves comparable performance to precious metal-based materials and shows excellent durability.
‘Artificial cartilage’ could improve arthritis treatment
Researchers have developed an artificial cartilage material that responds to pH changes in the body, releasing anti-inflammatory drugs precisely where and when needed. This approach could improve arthritis treatment outcomes by continuously delivering pain-relieving medication.
New Barkhausen noise measurement system unlocks key to efficient power electronics
Researchers developed a wide-band and high-sensitivity magnetic Barkhausen noise measurement system to understand energy loss mechanisms in soft magnetic materials. The study revealed that damping caused by eddy currents generated during DW motion is the main cause of excess eddy current losses.
Soft materials hold onto “memories” of their past, for longer than previously thought
Researchers have discovered that soft gels and lotions retain residual stress from the mixing process, affecting their behavior over time. The study reveals that common products like hair gel and shaving cream hold onto these stresses for longer periods than previously assumed.
Why seismic waves are slower for shortly after an earthquake
Researchers have made a breakthrough in understanding post-seismic velocity changes by studying the effects of friction at grain contacts. The team found that contact sliding and aging are responsible for these time-dependent changes in wave velocities.
Uncovering the Fundamental Mechanisms Behind Toughening of Soft–Hard Composites
A minimal three-dimensional model successfully reproduced hallmark behaviors of tough composite materials, including mechanical hysteresis and sacrificial bond-driven toughening. The team discovered that optimal toughening occurs at a specific ratio of soft to hard components, governed by a universal scaling relationship.
Sneaky swirls: scientists confirm ‘hidden’ vortices could influence how soil and snow move
Researchers have confirmed the existence of hidden motions in granular materials like soil and snow, which can control their movement. This discovery could help understand how landslides and avalanches work, as well as benefit industries such as construction and grain filling.
Lehigh University's Martin Harmer named among Top 10 global science breakthroughs of 2025 by Falling Walls Foundation
Harmer and his team developed a new Cu–Ta–Li superalloy with exceptional stability and structural integrity at high temperatures, breaking a century-old limitation. The breakthrough could lead to energy efficiency, improved turbine performance, and sustainable forms of transportation.
Breakthrough smart plastic: Self-healing, shape-shifting, and stronger than steel
Researchers at Texas A&M University have developed a smart plastic that can self-heal and adapt to extreme conditions, making it ideal for aerospace and automotive applications. The material's unique properties allow it to restore its shape after deformation, improve vehicle safety, and reduce environmental waste.
Nanostructures transcend boundaries (of grains in metals)
Physicists from the IFJ PAN in Cracow have successfully produced homogeneous coatings of titanium oxide nanotubes on large metal surfaces, overcoming the obstacle of crystal grain boundaries. The method combines nanoparticle lithography and electrochemical anodization, enabling controlled material properties.
This smarter sound shield blocks more noise—without blocking air
Researchers at Boston University developed a new ultra-open metamaterial that effectively silences a broader range of unwanted sounds while preserving airflow. This breakthrough enables practical acoustic silencing in diverse settings, such as factories, offices, and public spaces.
Researchers develop novel copper nanocluster for efficient and selective CO₂ conversion
A novel copper nanocluster has been developed, demonstrating high stability and exceptional selectivity in electrochemical carbon dioxide reduction reactions. The incorporation of a single Cu(0) atom into the cluster significantly alters its electronic landscape, leading to improved product selectivity.
New coating for glass promises energy-saving windows
Researchers at Rice University developed a new glass coating that forms a thin, tough layer that reflects heat and resists scratches and moisture. The coating improves energy savings by 2.9% compared to existing alternatives, making it a promising solution for cities with cold winters.
MXenes: materials on the move
MXene materials have been engineered to respond to light, enabling their use in soft robotics applications. This breakthrough could lead to the development of new types of robots that can change shape and function in response to external stimuli.
Creating carbon-capturing cement
A team of Penn engineers and materials scientists have developed a biomineral-infused concrete that captures up to 142% more CO2 than conventional mixes while using less cement. The new material is stronger, lighter, and uses fewer materials like cement.
Rice researchers develop superstrong, eco-friendly materials from bacteria
Scientists at Rice University developed a scalable approach to engineer bacterial cellulose into high-strength, multifunctional materials. The dynamic biosynthesis technique aligns bacterial cellulose fibers in real-time, resulting in robust biopolymer sheets with exceptional mechanical properties.
NUS researchers develop novel material for water quality monitoring device
The ReSURF sensor can detect various pollutants, such as oils and fluorinated compounds, in water droplets using its unique self-powered and self-healing properties. It offers a sustainable solution for real-time water quality monitoring with capabilities to be applied in soft robotics and wearable electronics.
Cellulose instead of crude oil: team with participation of Graz University of Technology develops sustainable foams
Researchers developed certified biodegradable and recyclable multi-purpose foams from cellulose, replacing oil-based products. The foams have potential applications in the automotive sector for crash impact energy management and construction as an insulating material.
Shape memory polymer dry adhesive technology paves the way for micro-LED innovation
Researchers at Pohang University of Science and Technology developed a novel dry adhesive technology using shape memory polymers, allowing for precise micro-LED chip transfer with minimal residue. The technology offers significant advantages over conventional methods, including high adhesion strength and easy release.
Uncovering the role of spacers in advancing portable, low-voltage OLEDs
A nanometer-thin spacer layer has been inserted into exciplex upconversion OLEDs (ExUC-OLEDs) to improve energy transfer, enhancing blue light emission by 77-fold. This design enables the use of previously incompatible materials, paving the way for lightweight, low-voltage, and more flexible OLEDs.
‘No one had done this before’: Art, science and the surprising versatility of boron nitride nanotubes
Scientists at Rice University develop a new method to align boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) in water using a common surfactant, creating ordered liquid crystalline phases. The discovery enables the production of transparent, robust films ideal for thermal management and structural reinforcement applications.
'Skin-like' electronic material created by researchers
Researchers at DTU developed a new electronic material that behaves like human skin, offering self-healing and adaptive properties. The material can stretch up to six times its original length, regulate heat, and detect environmental factors, making it suitable for wearable devices, soft robotics, and healthcare applications.
Electricity from heat through “traffic jam of electrons”
A research team at TU Wien has demonstrated how electrical current can be generated using 'traffic jam of electrons' in certain materials. By incorporating additional immobile charge carriers into the material, they were able to create a significant improvement in thermoelectric properties.
Better images for humans and computers
Researchers at ETH Zurich have developed a novel solution for image sensors, utilizing lead halide perovskite to capture every photon of light. This allows for improved color recognition and higher resolution, as well as advantages in hyperspectral imaging.
Modeling electric response of materials, a million atoms at a time
Researchers developed a machine learning framework that can predict how materials respond to electric fields up to a million atoms, accelerating simulations beyond quantum mechanical methods. This allows for accurate, large-scale simulations of material responses to various external stimuli.
Stabilizing fleeting quantum states with light
Scientists from Harvard University and PSI have developed a method to stabilize transient quantum states in materials using tailored optical excitation. This breakthrough enables the study of emergent properties of quantum materials, paving the way for transformative technologies such as lossless electronics and high-capacity batteries.