Nanofibers
Articles tagged with Nanofibers
Belt-like VO₂(b) single crystals unlock high-sensitivity gas detection at room temperature
Researchers have synthesized belt-like VO₂(b) single crystals with high sensitivity to ethanol at room temperature. The crystals' unique surface structure strongly adsorbs ethanol molecules, promoting efficient charge transfer and exceptional sensing performance.
Heavy water expands energy potential of carbon nanotube yarns
The study found that using heavy water in the electrolyte solution significantly increased energy output from the yarns, with up to 2.5 times higher peak electrical power and 1.8 times more energy per stretching cycle. The energy conversion efficiency reached 9.5%, higher than any other previously reported twistron harvester operating ...
Cactus thorn‑inspired Janus nanofiber membranes as a water diode for light‑enhanced diabetic wound healing
Researchers have developed a photonic Janus dressing that drains, disinfects, and repairs wounds in diabetic mice within 17 days. The membrane uses a hydrophobic-to-hydrophilic gradient to clear exudate and promotes immune reprogramming.
Light-intensity-dependent transformation of mesoscopic molecular assemblies
Researchers in Japan have developed a supramolecular polymer system that can adaptively transform into different dimensional states depending on the intensity of light applied, revealing mechanisms behind these dynamic transformations using high-speed atomic force microscopy.
Electrospun nanofiber‑based ceramic aerogels: Synergistic strategies for design and functionalization
Researchers from Donghua University introduce electrospun ceramic nanofiber-based aerogels (ECNFAs) offering a transformative approach to designing lightweight, flexible, and multifunctional ceramic frameworks. These materials bridge the gap between structural performance and functional versatility.
Dual-phase ceramic aerogel with a unitary structure
Researchers have designed a novel ceramic aerogel structure featuring a nanofibrous core framework and nanoporous sheath, resulting in enhanced mechanical flexibility with up to 80% compressive strain. The aerogel also demonstrates superior thermal superinsulation performance with a thermal conductivity of less than 24 mW·m−1·K−1.
Advances in electrospun nanofiber composites for physical, physiological, and biofluid signal monitoring
Researchers have developed electrospun nanofiber-based composite materials for wearable electronic skin applications, offering high surface area, tunable porosity, and breathability. These composites mimic skin-like properties while enabling efficient signal transduction for human-machine interaction and health monitoring.
Weaving peptide nanonets to fight bacterial infections
Engineered peptides form nanonets that trap and kill bacteria, while leaving healthy cells untouched. The technology could inspire next-generation biomaterials for treating bacterial infections.
New book sheds light on synthesis and applications of advanced materials
The book sheds light on nanomaterials, metamaterials, and smart materials' synthesis, classification, and characterization techniques. It discusses size-dependent behavior, fabrication challenges, and interdisciplinary applications with practical implications for healthcare, energy, and electronics.
Dye-free blue fluorescence enables easy viewing for interface sciences
Scientists have developed a novel technique to track the behavior of cellulose nanofibers by conjugating water-compatible fluorescent amino acids, enabling easy viewing without background signals or disruptions. The method uses a covalent bond to increase stability and visibility, opening up opportunities for various fields of study.
New book shows how nanotechnology is saving lives and protecting the planet
The new book provides a comprehensive overview of engineered nanomaterials' interactions with biological systems, driving breakthroughs in biomedical applications and environmental sustainability. It explores critical applications in sustainable technologies, including bioremediation and heavy metal adsorption.
Muscle-inspired anisotropic aramid nanofibers aerogel exhibiting high-efficiency thermoelectric conversion and precise temperature monitoring for firefighting clothing
Researchers developed an anisotropic thermoelectric aerogel inspired by human muscle, enabling directional heat transport and electrical conductivity. The material converts heat gradients into electrical signals without external power, providing real-time temperature monitoring.
New nanomaterial offers breakthrough in energy storage and environmental sustainability
Researchers developed a low-cost nanocomposite with excellent electrochemical performance for supercapacitors and strong catalytic efficiency in degrading industrial pollutants. The material has promising dual functionality for energy storage and environmental remediation.
Mask users can now breathe easy on two counts
Scientists from the University of Tokyo have created a filter that can capture nanoparticles such as viruses while maintaining air flow, resulting in improved user comfort. The filter uses nanosheets with porphyrin molecules and is capable of achieving a particle filtration efficiency of 96%, exceeding N95 mask requirements.
Karen Lozano, Eduardo Salas elected to American Academy of Arts and Sciences
Karen Lozano and Eduardo Salas have been elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences for their groundbreaking research in materials science and industrial-organizational psychology. Their work has pushed the boundaries of STEM fields, improving team performance and advancing innovation.
Breakthrough in enzyme immobilization: bamboo-based microreactor for efficient biotransformation
Researchers developed a bamboo-based microreactor system for efficient enzyme immobilization, demonstrating high transformation rates and thermal stability. The innovative use of bamboo nanofibers offers a sustainable alternative to traditional methods.
Breakthrough in oil spill remediation: a robust MXene aerogel with photothermal properties
Researchers have developed a multifunctional aerogel for efficient crude oil cleanup, exhibiting high compressive strength, hydrophobicity, and photothermal conversion. The aerogel's unique structure enables rapid absorption of viscous crude oil, addressing environmental concerns related to increasing oil spills.
Commercial tea bags release millions of microplastics when in use
A study by UAB researchers found that commercial tea bags release significant amounts of nano-sized particles and nanofilamentous structures when used to brew tea. The particles, made from polymers like nylon-6, polypropylene, and cellulose, can interact with human intestinal cells and potentially cause harm.
Chemists create world’s thinnest spaghetti
Researchers create world's thinnest spaghetti by electrospinning starch-rich flour mixture, showing promise for wound healing, bone regeneration, and drug delivery. The novel 'nanopasta' is visible but too narrow to be captured by light cameras or microscopes.
Engineering nature’s blueprint: Dendron-based assemblies for chlorophyll’s materials
Researchers developed chlorophyll-based structures with controlled hierarchical stacking, mimicking natural photosynthetic systems. The study demonstrates the potential for creating materials that surpass natural capabilities in efficiency and adaptability.
Researchers develop nanofiber patch for treatment of psoriasis
Developed by University of Copenhagen researchers, a new nanofiber patch reduces psoriasis treatment frequency to once a day, improving comfort for patients. The patch releases two active ingredients at different rates, addressing the need for multiple products in psoriasis treatment.
Super-strong bacterial cellulose macrofibers made simple with TAT technique
Researchers have developed a novel method to fabricate high-performance macrofibers with exceptional mechanical properties and humidity response using the TAT technique. The resulting fibers exhibit record tensile strength and rapid actuation in response to environmental moisture, making them ideal for various industries.
Molecular wires with a twist
Researchers at Osaka University have created molecular wires with periodic twists that increase electrical conductivity. The discovery could lead to the development of cheaper and biocompatible electronic devices.
Upcycling spent coffee grounds by isolating Mannan-rich Holocellulose nanofibers
Scientists at Yokohama National University successfully isolated Mannan-rich Holocellulose nanofibers (HCNFs) from spent coffee grounds using TEMPO-mediated oxidation. The resulting HCNFs exhibit desirable properties, including preservative-free long-term storage, volume reduction during transportation, and easy handling without solven...
Nanofibers for drug delivery: design and fabrication strategies
This review article delves into the production methods of nanofibers, including centrifugal jet spinning, plasma-induced synthesis, and solution blow spinning, to enhance drug delivery. Nanofibers' extensive surface area relative to their volume makes them valuable for numerous applications.
Artificial blood vessels could improve heart bypass outcomes
Researchers at the University of Edinburgh have developed strong, flexible gel-like tubes that mimic the properties of human veins. These artificial blood vessels could transform the treatment of cardiovascular diseases by replacing the current human and synthetic veins used in heart bypass surgeries.
Towards a new era in flexible piezoelectric sensors for both humans and robots
Researchers from Shinshu University have created a novel composite material with exceptional capabilities for motion and physiological sensing. The new sensor design showed significant performance and stability improvements, enabling practical use in wearable applications.
Enhancing nanofibrous acoustic energy harvesters with artificial intelligence
Scientists at TIBI employed AI to enhance the design and production of nanofibers used in acoustic energy harvesters, resulting in higher power density and energy conversion efficiency. The AI-generated nanofibers produced better performance than conventionally fabricated devices.
Carbon nanotube yarns generate electricity from waste heat
Researchers at Okayama University have developed a novel method to produce carbon nanotube yarns with excess electrons that can harvest waste heat. The yarns achieved high thermoelectric power factors within temperatures ranging from 30 to 200 °C, making them suitable for practical applications such as fabric-based modules.
Aligned peptide ‘noodles’ could enable lab-grown biological tissues
Researchers at Rice University have developed a novel fabrication process to create aligned peptide nanofiber hydrogels, which can guide cell growth in a desired direction. The study revealed that cells need to be able to 'pull' on the peptide nanofibers to recognize alignment, and excessive rigidity can prevent this.
Nanofibers rid water of hazardous dyes
Researchers at TU Wien have created a nanofabric filter using waste cellulose that can efficiently remove hazardous dyes from water. The filter, called 'nanoweb', uses a high surface area to bind organic dye molecules, resulting in a 95% removal rate.
Rice husk can be used as a promising sustainable packaging material
Researchers have developed a biodegradable chitosan-based composite film reinforced with lignin-rich nanofibers extracted from rice husks, reducing waste and promoting circular economy practices. The material showcases improved strength, durability, and unique properties like UV-blocking capabilities.
A positive spin—electrospinning and electrospraying synergism for the nanomaterials industry
The electrospinning and electrospraying synergism (ESS) technology has the potential to revolutionize various sectors such as bioengineering, textile technology, medical treatment, and energy conversion. By combining these two twin-tech methods, researchers can create complex structures with unique properties.
Rice chemists find new way to rid boron nitride nanotubes of impurities
Rice chemists find a way to remove impurities from boron nitride nanotubes using phosphoric acid and fine-tuning the reaction. The new method produces high-purity tubes that are stronger than steel by weight, making them suitable for various industries, including aerospace and biomedical imaging.
Catalytic combo converts CO2 to solid carbon nanofibers
Scientists at Brookhaven National Laboratory and Columbia University developed a tandem electrocatalytic-thermocatalytic conversion method to convert CO2 into carbon nanofibers. This approach can occur at relatively low temperatures, around 400°C, making it a more practical and industrially achievable process.
Asbestos: the size and shape of inhaled nanofibers could be exclusively responsible for the development of pulmonary fibrosis
Research reveals that inhaling asbestos or similar nanofibers can lead to pulmonary fibrosis due to their inability to be fully encapsulated by macrophages. The study found that fibers over 15 microns in length cause leaked secretions harmful to alveolar walls, leading to repeated pulmonary lesions and potential fibroma development.
Extracellular vesicles captured using sustainable wood cellulose-based nanofiber sheets may identify and improve cancer treatment
Researchers developed a technique to capture extracellular vesicles using sustainable wood cellulose-based nanofiber sheets, revealing new insights into cancer treatment. The technology has the potential to revolutionize early cancer diagnosis and open up personalized medicine.
Sustainable smart agriculture with a biodegradable soil moisture sensor
Osaka University researchers create a wirelessly powered, biodegradable soil moisture sensing technology that can be installed in high densities, enabling precision agriculture with minimized land and water use. The system achieves both electronic functionality and biodegradability, allowing for safe disposal of used sensor devices.
A new method to keep thickening agents tiny in transport and big in application
Researchers from Osaka University have demonstrated a method of dehydrating CNFs to a dense powder without affecting their three key properties. The resulting CNF powders retain high viscosity, transparency, and tunable properties.
HKU Mechanical Engineering team develops electroconductive hydrogel for biomedical applications
A research team from HKU has developed a new type of electroconductive hydrogels with outstanding mechanical strength and manufacturability, enabling various bioelectronic devices. The material shows high electrical conductivity and mechanical strength, making it suitable for applications such as neural prosthetics and cardiac patches.
Treating polluted water with nanofiber membranes
Researchers in China developed a method to increase the efficacy of membrane separation technology using nanofibrous membranes with silver nanoparticles. The technology is up to 99% effective at separating oil from water, promoting a stable hydration layer that impedes oil droplets and enhances antibacterial properties.
The wound dressing that can reveal infection
Researchers at Linköping University developed a nanocellulose wound dressing that reveals early signs of infection through pH monitoring. This technology can lead to more efficient care and reduce unnecessary antibiotic use.
Bilayer PET/PVDF substrate-reinforced solid polymer electrolyte improves solid-state lithium metal battery performance
A bilayer, nonwoven PET microfiber/polyvinylidene fluoride nanofiber membrane acts as a separator for LIB systems and prevents short circuits. The substrate significantly improves the mechanical and thermal properties of solid polymer electrolytes, enabling cells to operate over 2000 hours.
Embedding aligned nanofibrous architectures within 3D-printed polycaprolactone scaffolds for directed cellular infiltration and tissue regeneration
Scientists create hybrid composite scaffolds with aligned nanofibrous architectures to improve cell seeding efficiency, proliferation rates, and morphogenesis. The findings have potential applications in tissue repairing and regenerative medicine.
Scientists thread rows of metal atoms into nanofiber bundles
Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University have successfully threaded indium atoms into bundles of transition metal chalcogenide nanofibers, creating a unique nanostructure. The resulting metallic nanowires exhibit properties suitable for flexible wiring in nanocircuitry.
Recreating the natural light-harvesting nanorings in photosynthetic bacteria
Researchers at Ritsumeikan University have successfully synthesized ring-shaped nanostructures via the self-assembly of chlorophyll derivatives, mimicking the arrangement of chlorophyll pigments observed in nature. This discovery enables efficient sunlight absorption and could lead to novel smart materials with tunable properties.
Cancer-selective supramolecular chemotherapy by disassembly-assembly approach
Researchers developed a cancer-selective therapeutic agent that targets cancer cells' unique acidic pH microenvironment, inducing mitochondrial dysfunction and killing only cancer cells. The agent, Mito-SA, forms charge-shielded nano-assemblies that selectively disassemble in the tumoral environment.
Easy way to spin nanofibers, inspired by silkworms (video)
Researchers mimicked silkworms' head bobbing to create consistent micro- and nanofibers with minimal equipment. The new method produces uniform filaments and doesn't produce clumpy fibers.
Microchannel-containing nanofiber aerogels with small protein molecule enable accelerated diabetic wound healing
Researchers developed a nanofiber aerogel that promotes faster and more effective healing of diabetic wounds. The aerogel facilitates cell migration, oxygen, and nutrient delivery to the wound bed, while incorporating an anti-microbial peptide prevents bacterial growth and promotes healing.
These cellulose nanofibers might be an alternative to petroleum-based plastics
Scientists at Osaka University have created a new material that could replace traditional plastics with a sustainable, biodegradable alternative. The cellulose nanofibers were engineered to exhibit direction-dependent properties, allowing for facile molding into complex structures such as microneedles and bio/nanotechnology architectures.
HKU Mechanical Engineering researchers develop ultra-strong aerogels with materials used in bullet-proof vests
HKU researchers create ultra-strong aerogels by combining aramid nanofibers with polyvinyl alcohol, outperforming traditional aerogels in load-bearing structures. The new material has vast applicational values for diverse functional devices.
Study: Making an artificial heart fit for a human — with focused rotary jet spinning, not 3D
A team of researchers has successfully created complex artificial tissue models, including a full-scale human heart model, using focused rotary jet spinning. This method enables the creation of intricate details and spatially varying alignment, rivaling biological tissues in mechanical behavior.
Spider silk properties analyzed for use as bio-based fibers in the medical field
Researchers investigated the cell adhesion behavior on spider silk fibers, films, and nanofibers. The study found that native spider silk exhibits superior properties for medical use, preventing blood clots and enduring repetitive loading and unloading.
A nanomaterial that may improve insulin’s effects on the nervous system
Researchers developed a compound consisting of insulin bound to an antioxidant group, improving glucose consumption and brain function in mice with type 1 diabetes. The combination therapy showed better cognitive performance than individual treatments alone.
Discovered: An easier way to create "flexible diamonds"
A team of scientists led by Samuel Dunning has developed an original technique to predict and guide the ordered creation of strong, yet flexible, diamond nanothreads. The innovation allows for easier synthesis of the material, which has potential applications in space elevators, ultra-strong fabrics, and other fields.
Harnessing sea pineapples and blood waste for metal-air-battery catalysts
Researchers from Tohoku University have developed a sustainable alternative to rare metals for metal-air battery catalysts, utilizing sea pineapple shells and blood waste. The new method produces high-quality carbon with electrical performances similar to that of rare metals.
Traditional Xuan paper inspires development of new high-haze transparent film
A team from University of Science and Technology of China discovered the microscopic mechanism behind traditional Xuan paper's high strength and toughness. They developed a high-performance, high-haze transparent film with excellent properties, including high light transmittance, flexibility, and thermal stability.
World’s smallest microelectronic catheter for minimally invasive surgery of the future
A team of researchers from Chemnitz University of Technology, IFW Dresden, and Max Planck Institute CBG presents a new type of biomedical tool with a tiny biocompatible microelectronic micro-catheter. The catheter has sensor and actuator functions integrated into its wall, making it highly flexible and adaptable to the body.
Under arrest: Using nanofibers to stop brain tumor cells from spreading
A team of researchers from Japan has developed a platform using nanofibers to capture and control the migration of brain tumor cells, including glioblastoma multiforme. The study found that varying fiber densities can slow or speed up cell movement, leading to the creation of 'cell traps' that can restrict tumor cell growth.