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Physics meets art: a new twist on interference patterns

Researchers at The University of Tokyo have discovered a previously unseen moiré pattern in tungsten ditelluride bilayers, featuring one-dimensional bands. The pattern occurs at specific twist angles and has important implications for the optoelectronic properties of materials.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalACS Nano·DateMar 27, 2025

Delft University of Technology and Brown University pioneer technology for next-generation lightsails in space exploration

Researchers have developed scalable nanotechnology-based lightsails that can be fabricated in a single day, reducing the traditional 15-year process. These lightsails use laser-driven radiation pressure to propel spacecraft at high speeds, enabling rapid interplanetary travel and opening new possibilities for experimental physics.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 24, 2025

Unlocking opportunities to create new designer 2D materials with a twist

Scientists have successfully imaged the dynamic assembly of bilayer covalent organic frameworks in solution, providing new insights into controlled stacking and moiré superlattice formation. The breakthrough enables the creation of large-area two-layer 2D COFs with unique electronic properties.

SourceNational University of Singapore·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 24, 2025
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Materials with a ‘twist’ show unexpected electronic behaviour

Researchers at University of Groningen found that twisted tungsten disulfide sheets exhibit unexpected electronic properties, contradicting theoretical predictions. The study provides insights into the structural relaxation of 2D materials and enhances prediction and manipulation capabilities.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalPhysical Review Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 27, 2024

MIT engineers grow “high-rise” 3D chips

Researchers create multilayered chip design that doesn't require silicon wafer substrates, allowing for better communication and computation between layers. This breakthrough enables the construction of fast and powerful AI hardware comparable to supercomputers.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature·DateDec 18, 2024

FSU researchers develop new methods to generate and improve magnetism of 2D materials

Researchers have developed a new method for producing one class of 2D material and supercharging its magnetic properties. By applying liquid phase exfoliation and chemical treatment, they were able to increase the material's coercivity by five-fold, making it more suitable for applications such as spin filtering, electromagnetic shield...

SourceFlorida State University·JournalAngewandte Chemie·DateDec 12, 2024
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

Novel quantum materials in the spotlight

German physicist Christian Schneider has been awarded a European Research Council Consolidator Grant to study the optical properties of two-dimensional materials. His team plans to develop experimental set-ups to investigate the unique properties of these materials, which could lead to new applications in quantum technologies.

SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·DateDec 5, 2024

Deep learning streamlines identification of 2D materials

Researchers developed a deep learning-based method for identifying 2D materials using Raman spectroscopy, achieving high classification accuracy and reducing manual intervention. The new approach generates synthetic data to enhance datasets, enabling precise material characterization even with scarce experimental data.

SourceAdvanced Institute for Materials Research (AIMR), Tohoku University·JournalApplied Materials Today·DateNov 14, 2024

Researchers at NYU Tandon School of Engineering and KAIST develop method to 'hear' defects in promising nanomaterial

A new technique enables the detection of individual atomic-scale defects in hexagonal boron nitride, a two-dimensional material. This advance accelerates the development of next-generation electronics and quantum technologies by providing a way to 'hear' the electronic noise in specially designed transistors.

SourceNYU Tandon School of Engineering·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2024
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Temporarily apart

Researchers induced fast switching between electrically neutral and charged luminescent particles in an ultra-thin, two-dimensional material. The result opens up new perspectives for optical data processing and flexible detectors.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 27, 2024

Researchers demonstrate metasurfaces that control thermal radiation in unprecedented ways

The research team has successfully demonstrated the control of thermal radiation by metasurfaces, achieving circularly polarized light with full control over emission direction. This breakthrough enables the creation of custom light sources with desired spectral, polarization, and spatial features for various applications.

SourceAdvanced Science Research Center, GC/CUNY·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 23, 2024

Paving the way to extremely fast, compact computer memory

The layered multiferroic material nickel iodide (NiI2) has been found to have greater magnetoelectric coupling than any known material of its kind, making it a prime candidate for technology advances. This property could enable the creation of magnetic computer memories that are compact, energy-efficient and can be stored and retrieved...

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 17, 2024

Detecting defects in tomorrow’s technology

Researchers investigate defects in 2D materials, finding that some can improve electrical conductivity and shedding light on a common defect related to missing chalcogen atoms. Understanding these defects is crucial for refining processes needed to create precise TMD-based semiconductors.

SourceDOE/Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory·Journal2D Materials·DateJul 9, 2024
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Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.

Turning infrared light visible

The Indian Institute of Science has fabricated a device to up-convert short infrared light to the visible range, utilizing a non-linear optical mirror stack made of gallium selenide. This innovation has diverse applications in defence and optical communications, including astronomy and chemistry.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalLaser & Photonics Review·DateJun 20, 2024

2D materials: a catalyst for future quantum technologies

Scientists at the Cavendish Laboratory have discovered that a single 'atomic defect' in hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) exhibits spin coherence under ambient conditions and can be controlled with light. This finding has significant implications for the development of quantum technologies, particularly sensing technology.

SourceUniversity of Cambridge·JournalNature Materials·DateMay 20, 2024

PolyU researchers create 2D all-organic perovskites and demonstrate potential use in 2D electronics

Researchers at PolyU developed a new class of 2D all-organic perovskites with high dielectric constants, surpassing those of silicon dioxide and hexagonal boron nitride. These materials show promise for use in 2D electronics, enabling superior control over current flow and potential applications in capacitors and transistors.

SourceThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 9, 2024
Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition

Sky & Telescope Pocket Sky Atlas, 2nd Edition is a durable star atlas for planning sessions, identifying targets, and teaching celestial navigation.

Columbia researchers “unzip” 2D materials with lasers

Researchers at Columbia Engineering have developed a technique to modify 2D materials using lasers, creating tiny nanopatterns that can capture quasiparticles called phonon-polaritons. This method uses commercially available tabletop lasers and doesn't require an expensive cleanroom or etching equipment.

SourceColumbia University School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 7, 2024

When does a conductor not conduct?

A new atomically-thin material has been discovered that can switch between an insulating and conducting state by controlling the number of electrons. This property makes it a promising candidate for use in electronic devices such as transistors.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 29, 2024

Multilayer MoS2 photodetector with broad spectral range and multiband response

A multilayer MoS2 field-effect transistor photodetector exhibits a wide spectral detection range of up to 1550 nm, achieving high responsivity and specific detectivity under 480 nm illumination. The device demonstrates good output and transmission characteristics across multiple spectral regions.

SourceAdvanced Devices & Instrumentation·JournalAdvanced Devices & Instrumentation·TypeNews article·DateApr 24, 2024

Study shows: 2D materials rotate light polarization

A German-Indian research team has achieved a significant breakthrough in developing miniaturized optical isolators by utilizing ultra-thin two-dimensional materials. The researchers successfully rotated the polarization of visible light by several degrees under small magnetic fields, paving the way for on-chip integration of optical co...

SourceUniversity of Münster·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 22, 2024

New quantum material promises over 190% quantum efficiency in solar cells

Researchers from Lehigh University have developed a material that promises over 190% quantum efficiency in solar cells, exceeding the theoretical limit for silicon-based materials. The material's 'intermediate band states' enable efficient absorption of sunlight and production of charge carriers.

SourceLehigh University·JournalScience Advances·DateApr 10, 2024
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Novel fabrication technique takes transition metal telluride nanosheets from lab to mass production

Researchers have developed a novel technique to produce high-quality transition metal telluride nanosheets using chemical solutions, overcoming the challenges of scalability and toxicity. The technique enables the mass production of these ultra-thin materials with potential applications in electronics, energy storage, and sensing.

SourceDalian Institute of Chemical Physics, Chinese Academy Sciences·JournalNature·TypeCommentary/editorial·DateApr 3, 2024

Physics-based predictive tool will speed up battery and superconductor research

Researchers from the University of Tokyo have developed a physics-based predictive tool that quickly identifies stable intercalated materials for advanced electronics and energy storage devices. By analyzing over 9,000 compounds, the tool uses straightforward principles from undergraduate chemistry to predict host-guest stability.

SourceInstitute of Industrial Science, The University of Tokyo·JournalACS Physical Chemistry Au·DateApr 1, 2024
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Manipulated hafnia paves the way for next-gen memory devices

Researchers outline new method to stabilize bulk hafnia in metastable ferroelectric and antiferroelectric states, paving the way for non-volatile memory technology. The approach requires less yttrium, improving material quality and purity.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 22, 2024

New 2D material with super-heavy electrons

Researchers at Uppsala University and Columbia University have created a new 2D quantum material, CeSiI, with atoms-thin layers of cerium, silicon, and iodine. The material features super-heavy electrons with an effective mass up to 100 times that of ordinary materials.

SourceUppsala University·JournalNature·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 17, 2024
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Revolutionizing stable and efficient catalysts with Turing structures for hydrogen production

Researchers from City University of Hong Kong developed a novel strategy to engineer stable and efficient ultrathin nanosheet catalysts using Turing structures. This approach effectively resolves the instability problem associated with low-dimensional materials in catalytic systems, enabling efficient and long-lasting hydrogen production.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 8, 2024

2D material reshapes 3D electronics for AI hardware

Researchers developed a novel approach to integrate multiple functions into a single chip using monolithic 3D integration of layered 2D materials. This technology offers unprecedented efficiency and performance in AI computing tasks, enabling faster processing, less energy consumption, and enhanced security.

SourceWashington University in St. Louis·JournalNature Materials·DateNov 30, 2023

Scaling up nano for sustainable manufacturing

Researchers have developed a new self-assembling nanosheet that can create functional and sustainable nanomaterials for various applications. The material is recyclable and can extend the shelf life of consumer products, enabling a sustainable manufacturing approach.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2023
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Solving quantum mysteries: New insights into 2D semiconductor physics

Researchers from Monash University have introduced a new theoretical study on quantum impurities, exploring their behavior in two-dimensional semiconductors. The 'quantum virial expansion' method sheds light on the complex interactions between impurities and their surroundings in 2D materials.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 15, 2023

Molybdenene – the "metallic" relative of graphene

Scientists have successfully produced a thin sheet of molybdenum, similar to graphene, with impressive properties. Molybdenene exhibits mechanical stability, freely moving electrons, and is an interesting candidate for catalysts and advanced imaging techniques.

SourceForschungszentrum Juelich·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 20, 2023

CityU achieves major breakthrough in highly efficient electrocatalyst for clean energy

A research team at City University of Hong Kong has developed a highly efficient electrocatalyst that enhances hydrogen generation through electrochemical water splitting. The catalyst, composed of transition-metal dichalcogenide nanosheets with unconventional crystal phases, exhibits superior activity and stability in acidic media.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 13, 2023

Infrared avalanche photodiodes from bulk to 2D materials

Researchers have developed infrared avalanche photodiodes using bulk and 2D materials, offering improved detection efficiency and flexibility in heterostructure design. The devices exhibit exceptional capabilities such as mechanical flexibility and strong light-matter coupling.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateAug 31, 2023

Breakthrough: Peering into nanofluidic mysteries one photon at a time

Scientists have developed a new approach to study molecular behavior in confined spaces, allowing for real-time tracking of individual molecules within nanofluidic structures. This breakthrough enables the use of single-photon emitters as nanoscale probes, providing unprecedented insights into molecular properties and behaviors.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 31, 2023
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Making big leaps in understanding nanoscale gaps

Researchers at Brookhaven Lab's Center for Functional Nanomaterials have created a new layered structure with unique energy and charge transfer properties. The discovery could lead to advancements in technologies such as solar cells and optoelectronic devices.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 18, 2023

Layered and traditional semiconductors heterogenous integration open door for post Moore era

Scientists have demonstrated techniques to fabricate layered semiconductors with suitable bandgap and band structure, offering a new class of materials in photoelectronic applications. Heterogeneous integration of TMDs and traditional semiconductors enables the exploration of next-generation electronic and optoelectronic devices.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateAug 16, 2023

Ribbons of graphene push the material’s potential

Researchers at Columbia University have developed a new fabrication technique to create devices with uniform twist angles and strain profiles in graphene. This allows for the systematic exploration of the material's properties and behavior, potentially leading to breakthroughs in quantum materials science.

SourceColumbia University·JournalScience·DateAug 10, 2023

Unveiling the potential of radiofrequency-operated 2D biochemical sensor in the internet-of-things era

Researchers have developed ultra-thin and flexible 2D biochemical sensors with high sensitivity for detecting target substances, revolutionizing sensing technology. However, integrating these sensors into comprehensive systems for large-scale industrial manufacturing poses significant challenges.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJul 27, 2023
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

An innovative addition to the chemist’s ‘toolbox’

Researchers at the University of Missouri have developed a new type of nanoclay material that can be customized to perform specific tasks. This breakthrough could lead to advances in fields such as medical science, environmental science, and more.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalACS Applied Engineering Materials·DateJul 24, 2023

Researchers put a new twist on graphite

A team of researchers at the University of Washington has discovered a way to imbue bulk graphite with physical properties similar to those of graphene, a single-layer sheet. This breakthrough could unlock new approaches for studying unusual and exotic states of matter and bring them into everyday life.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 19, 2023

Structure of the elusive boron monoxide finally determined after 83 years

A team from Ames National Laboratory solved the structure of boron monoxide, a compound first discovered in the 1940s, using new nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) methods and techniques. The researchers found that the material forms nanosheets with a turbostratic arrangement.

SourceDOE/Ames National Laboratory·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateJul 18, 2023
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Front cover highlights "innovative approach" of research into 2D materials

Lancaster University researchers have developed a novel scanning thermal microscopy approach to directly measure the heat conductivity of two-dimensional materials. This breakthrough enables the creation of efficient waste heat scavengers generating cheap electricity, new compact fridges, and advanced optical and microwave sensors and ...

SourceLancaster University·JournalAdvanced Materials Interfaces·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 18, 2023

2D nanosheets for sustainable carbon capture

A team of researchers from SUTD and A*STAR has developed a quick and energy-efficient technique to produce 2D mica nanosheets, which have shown an 87% higher CO2 adsorption capacity than bulk mica. The nanosheets' high specific surface area and porosity enable effective carbon capture.

SourceSingapore University of Technology and Design·JournalMaterials·DateJul 4, 2023

Spectroscopic micro-ellipsometer unveils atomic-level thickness measurements of 2D materials: Hebrew University secures patented technology for revolutionary innovation

Researchers from Hebrew University developed a microscope-integrated ellipsometer that enables fast and precise measurements of thin-film thicknesses in small areas. The Spectroscopic Micro-Ellipsometer successfully maps the thicknesses of diverse 2D material flakes, determining their number of atomic layers.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 22, 2023
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Smart in-memory light sensors perform image recognition

Researchers at KAUST developed smart digital image sensors that can recognize images with high accuracy, using a charge-trapping 'in-memory' sensor sensitive to visible light. The devices have an extremely long-lived retention time of up to 10 years and can perform optical sensing, storage, and computation.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateJun 6, 2023

What do we know about the mechanics of two-dimensional materials?

Researchers comprehensively reviewed recent discoveries in 2D material mechanics, highlighting elastic properties, failure, and interfacial behaviors. Computational advancements are crucial for understanding dynamic behaviors and practical applications.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateMay 22, 2023

Artificial visual perception nervous system using solution-processable MoS2-based in-memory light sensor

Researchers have developed a single sensing-storage-processing node using solution-processable MoS2-based metal–oxide–semiconductor devices, mimicking the human visual system. The device can optically sense, store, and process data, improving response time, area, and energy efficiency.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·DateMay 9, 2023
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Fabrication and applications of van der Waals heterostructures

The article discusses the fabrication and applications of van der Waals heterostructures (vdWHs), which have unique properties and potential for exploring condensed matter physics. Various strategies for fabricating vdWHs were developed in the past decade, leading to promising functionalities in diverse fields.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateApr 25, 2023

Strong ultralight material could aid energy storage, carbon capture

Researchers engineered a lightweight material by fine-tuning interlayer interactions in 2D polymers, retaining desirable mechanical properties even as a multilayer stack. The material's strong interlayer interaction is attributed to hydrogen bonding among special functional groups.

SourceRice University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 3, 2023

Can a solid be a superfluid? Engineering a novel supersolid state from layered 2D materials

Researchers predict that layered electronic 2D semiconductors can host a quantum phase of matter called the supersolid. A solid becomes 'super' when its quantum properties match those of superconductors, simultaneously having two orders: solid and super. The study reports the complete phase diagram of this system at low temperatures.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 29, 2023

New simulation reveals secrets of exotic form of electrons called polarons

Researchers have developed a new simulation method to study polarons in 2D materials, which could lead to breakthroughs in OLED TVs and hydrogen fuel production. The study uses quantum mechanical theory and computation to determine the fundamental properties of polarons in 2D materials.

SourceUniversity of Texas at Austin·JournalNature Physics·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 22, 2023
Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm)

Apple Watch Series 11 (GPS, 46mm) tracks health metrics and safety alerts during long observing sessions, fieldwork, and remote expeditions.