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Mysterious catalyst explained

Researchers at Ruhr-University Bochum discovered how tiny gold particles selectively transform methanol into formaldehyde, a crucial step in producing everyday plastics. The catalyst produces only water as a byproduct, making it an environmentally friendly alternative.

SourceRuhr-University Bochum·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateApr 30, 2013

What's old is new again

A UC Riverside engineer is exploring a nearly century-old manufacturing technique to strengthen tiny titanium-based medical devices, which could lead to significant improvements in their performance and reliability. The technique, known as gas nitriding, involves heating the device in a nitrogen atmosphere to increase its strength.

Titanium dioxide nanoreactor

Researchers at Helmholtz Centre Berlin have developed a method for producing titanium dioxide nanoparticles at room temperature in a polymer network. The analysis showed that the nanoparticles are homogeneously distributed over the polymeric nanoreactors and have a crystalline structure, enabling their use as catalysts.

SourceHelmholtz Association·JournalNano Letters·DateFeb 21, 2013

By their powers combined

Researchers have developed new methods for controlling magnetic order in magnetoelectric materials using electrical signals, potentially leading to faster and more efficient memories. This breakthrough could also enable the creation of non-binary memories and improved magnetic field sensors.

SourceDOE/Argonne National Laboratory·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 2013

Doing the tooth implant 2-step

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology concludes that a two-step tooth implantation method is more effective than a one-step process. The research found that implants placed using the two-step procedure show less wear and tear over time, with greater bone stability.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal Of Clinical Periodontology·DateMay 22, 2012

Researchers discover a new path for light through metal

Researchers have found a promising candidate for plasmonic materials in titanium nitride, enabling the transportation of plasmons and directing optical signals on the nanoscale. This discovery could lead to faster and more efficient optoelectronic devices with unprecedented speed and efficiency.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateMar 27, 2012

Cobblestones fool innate immunity

Scientists at the University of Gothenburg create a nanostructured surface on implants, fooling the innate immune system and reducing rejection rates. The unique surface mimics natural structures, allowing the body to integrate foreign objects more easily.

SourceUniversity of Gothenburg·JournalInternational Journal of Nanomedicine·DateNov 29, 2011

Recent advance in detonation theory

Researchers Hu et al. developed a new detonation model named the least-action detonation model (LADM) that takes into account complex movement and transport effects, differing from the classical ZND model. The LADM model predicts detonation product particles to be in a stationary state, which has been observed in experiments.

Shape memory materials ready for mass production

Researchers have successfully developed a new, cheaper alloy for shape memory materials, which could revolutionize industries such as aerospace engineering and electronics. The new alloy, produced using copper, has shown promising properties and is expected to be cost-effective alternative to existing alloys like Nitinol.

SourceEUREKA·DateSep 23, 2011

Heavy metal: Titanium implant safety under scrutiny

Researchers developed a highly sensitive method to determine titanium levels in human blood, establishing a baseline for natural levels and measuring levels in patients with surgical implants. The study found significantly higher titanium concentrations in patients with implants, shedding light on the potential harmful biological effects.

SourceSpringer·JournalAnalytical and Bioanalytical Chemistry·DateJul 25, 2011

Tapping titanium's colorful potential

A cost-effective method for coloring titanium using an electrochemical solution has been developed, enabling over 80 shades of basic colors and crack-free stability. The technology has potential applications in various industries, including healthcare, aviation, and the military.

SourceQueen's University·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateJun 28, 2011

Virus killer gets supercharged

Rice University researchers have developed a method to enhance the effectiveness of a common disinfectant, increasing its ability to degrade aerosol- and water-borne viruses by more than three times. The new technique involves adding silicone to titanium dioxide, which is widely used in paints, sunscreen, and food coloring.

Superatoms mimic elements: Research gives new perspective on periodic table

A team of researchers at Penn State has discovered that certain combinations of elemental atoms can mimic the electronic signatures of other elements. By examining photoelectron spectroscopy data, they found similarities between titanium monoxide and nickel, zirconium monoxide and palladium, and tungsten carbide and platinum.

SourcePenn State·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 28, 2009

Novel approach estimates nanoparticles in environment

A novel approach estimates that titanium dioxide nanoparticles are produced in increasing amounts, posing potential environmental and health risks. The study's findings suggest that up to 2.5 million metric tons of nanomaterial could be released into the environment by 2025.

SourceDuke University·JournalJournal of Environmental Science and Technology·DateMay 20, 2009

Nanostructure boosts efficiency in energy transport

Boston College researchers have developed a titanium nanostructure that improves the efficiency of energy transport, achieving a peak conversion efficiency of 16.7 percent under ultraviolet light. The novel material enhances the 'water-splitting' technique by collecting and transporting electrons with minimal energy loss.

SourceBoston College·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 3, 2009

Combating secondary infections in clinics

A new antimicrobial surface coating, developed by a team of scientists, has shown promising results in reducing implant-related infections. The hybrid molecule combines two natural products with different modes of action, effectively hindering bacterial growth and attachment.

SourceWiley·DateAug 1, 2008

AGU Journal Highlights -- June 11, 2008

A study finds that east Siberia's permafrost contains 500 Gt of frozen carbon deposits susceptible to disturbances from climate warming. The permafrost's irreversible thawing could release 2-2.8 Gt of carbon into the atmosphere annually between 2300 and 2400, transforming 74% of the initial carbon stock.

SourceAmerican Geophysical Union·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 11, 2008

Crowning glory

Researchers found that Bonelike-coated dental implants promoted extensive new bone formation and attachment, improving incorporation into the jaw. One implant was removed due to poor positioning, allowing for detailed analysis of the coating's effects.

SourceInderscience Publishers·JournalInternational Journal of Nanomanufacturing·DateApr 4, 2008

Nanowire coating for bone implants, stents

Researchers have developed a nanowire coating on titanium that enhances muscle tissue adhesion for hip replacements and dental reconstructions. The material can also be easily sterilized using UV light or ethanol, making it suitable for hospital settings and food processing plants.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalChemistry of Materials·DateAug 27, 2007