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X-ray mapping enhances potential of lightweight magnesium

A world-first study has discovered a new technique to create stronger, lightweight magnesium alloys using atomic-resolution X-ray mapping. The finding significantly improves the structural integrity of automotive and aerospace industries by increasing the boundary pinning effect and strengthening the alloy.

SourceMonash University·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 19, 2019

Gold for silver: A chemical barter

Researchers study thiolate-protected gold-silver alloys, revealing intra-cluster and inter-cluster metal exchange that affects cluster stability and geometric structure. This understanding is crucial for harnessing novel physical and chemical properties of these clusters.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry C·DateJun 20, 2019

Traces of Roman-era pollution stored in the ice of Mont Blanc

Researchers have found traces of Roman-era pollution in the ice of Mont Blanc, revealing significant atmospheric pollution from heavy metals. The study provides a record of atmospheric conditions in ancient Rome and sheds light on the impact of ancient emissions on the present-day environment in Europe.

SourceCNRS·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateMay 9, 2019

Health insurance is not assurance of healthcare

A new study from Case Western Reserve University finds that low- to middle-income individuals with subsidized health-exchange insurance are more likely to experience problems with access and affordability. They are 2.5 times more likely to have difficulty paying medical bills and skip needed care, compared to Medicaid recipients.

SourceCase Western Reserve University·JournalJournal of General Internal Medicine·DateFeb 27, 2019

The making of medieval bling

Researchers discovered medieval artisans used an ancient method to coat silver threads with gold, revealing a technique that endured for centuries. The study employed lab techniques to characterize the chemistry of the threads and strips, showing the gold coating was applied using heat and hammering.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateOct 11, 2017

Common water treatments could damage DNA

A study by the University of East Anglia warns that common water treatments containing colloidal silver may cause genotoxicity, damaging DNA. This can lead to reproductive issues and harm to future generations. The World Health Organization advises against its use as a primary water treatment.

SourceUniversity of East Anglia·JournalEnvironmental Health·DateJun 21, 2017

Smashing metallic cubes toughens them up

Rice University scientists fire micro-cubes at a target to rearrange their nanoscale structures, creating ultrastrong and tough materials. The technique, known as LIPIT, uses advanced laser-induced projectile impact testing to generate high pressure that far exceeds the material's strength.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·DateOct 20, 2016

Switching light with a silver atom

Researchers at ETH Zurich developed a working group that created a tiny, ultra-efficient optical switch using silver atoms. This breakthrough has significant implications for data transmission and storage, as it enables the creation of digital signals with unprecedented accuracy.

SourceETH Zurich·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 1, 2016

Nanodevice, build thyself

Researchers used density functional theory to understand the self-assembly of porphine molecules on copper and silver surfaces. They found that weak van der Waals interactions were the largest contributor to molecule-surface interaction, and surface-mediated molecule-molecule interactions occurred at higher coverages.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateJan 14, 2016

Nanoscale drawbridges open path to color displays

Researchers at Rice University develop a new method for building 'drawbridges' between metal nanoparticles, allowing for the creation of full-color displays. The technique involves anchoring pairs of gold nanoparticles to a glass surface and applying a small voltage to create a conductive silver bridge that can be switched on and off.

SourceRice University·JournalScience Advances·DateDec 4, 2015

A silver lining

The study demonstrates the use of DNA nanotechnology to position arrays of hundreds of identical silver clusters with tunable fluorescent properties. This approach enables controlled assembly of photonic arrays, opening up new possibilities for sensing and imaging applications.

Ancient Mongol metallurgy an extreme polluter

A recent study by Graduate Student Aubrey Hillman found that ancient copper and silver production in southwest China produced tremendous quantities of harmful heavy metals, including lead, silver, zinc, and cadmium. The pollution levels were three to four times higher than those generated by modern metallurgical methods.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·JournalEnvironmental Science & Technology·DateMar 5, 2015