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The right formula for scaling production of promising material to decontaminate water

Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a method to fabricate large quantities of Molybdenum Disulfide (MoS2) in a controlled and tunable dimension, making it an attractive material for water treatment and various applications. The process reduces production costs by 3,000 times compared to previous methods.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateSep 21, 2020

Marine sponges inspire the next generation of skyscrapers and bridges

Researchers at Harvard SEAS developed a new lattice design inspired by marine sponge skeletons, achieving higher strength-to-weight ratios than traditional designs. The diagonal reinforcement strategy improves structural strength without adding material, paving the way for innovative infrastructural applications.

From nanocellulose to gold

Researchers at Linköping University have developed new materials by combining nanocellulose with metal nanoparticles, resulting in antibacterial properties, color-changing abilities, and the ability to generate heat. The materials can be used for various applications, including sensors and energy-based uses.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateAug 10, 2020

Simple approach tested in small group visually evaluates mask effectiveness against viral droplets

A new study tests the effectiveness of different types of masks in preventing the spread of droplets that contain SARS-CoV-2 virus particles. The findings suggest that professional-grade N95 masks, surgical or polypropylene masks, and handmade cotton masks may block much of the spray produced when wearers speak.

A look inside a battery

Scientists at Oldenburg University have developed a new technique to observe chemical processes during battery operation. The team used scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) to track changes on the lithium anode's surface, revealing how dendrites form and limit durability.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·JournalChemElectroChem·DateJul 20, 2020

Scientists open new window into the nanoworld

Researchers at JILA have developed an ultraviolet laser technique to probe materials down to 5 nanometers thick, revealing surprising discoveries about material behavior. The study found that very thin materials can be up to 10 times softer than expected, and certain dopings can disrupt atomic bonds, affecting strength.

SourceUniversity of Colorado at Boulder·JournalPhysical Review Materials·DateJul 15, 2020

Stress testing 'coral in a box'

Researchers have developed a rapid stress test to assess coral thermotolerance, allowing for the identification of resilient corals that can survive ocean warming. The 'Coral Bleaching Automated Stress System' (CBASS) enables on-site testing within 18 hours, compared to months in a laboratory.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalGlobal Change Biology·DateJul 8, 2020

Excitation of robust materials

Researchers at Kiel University have observed rapid electronic changes in tungsten ditelluride using laser pulses, which could enable ultra-fast optoelectronic switches. The team used time-resolved photoelectron spectroscopy to visualize the changes in the material's electronic structure, revealing new insights into its unusual properties.

SourceKiel University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 7, 2020

Virtually captured

Researchers analyzed the Venus flytrap's biomechanical properties using digital 3D image correlation methods and finite element simulations. They found that the trap snaps shut when under prestress, and only traps with three tissue layers can close correctly.

SourceUniversity of Freiburg·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 23, 2020

Liquid metals break down organic fuels into ultra-thin graphitic sheets

Researchers at UNSW Sydney synthesized ultra-thin carbon-based materials using liquid metals and organic fuels at room temperature, a first for this method. The ultra-smooth surface of the liquid metals templates atomically-thin carbon-based sheets, which can be used in various applications including battery storage and solar cells.

Signatures of fractional electronic charge observed in topological insulators

Scientists at the University of Illinois have detected fractional electronic charges in topological insulators, a breakthrough that could lead to more efficient and robust devices. The discovery was made using specially designed microwave resonators, which allowed the researchers to measure the signature of these fractional charges.