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Building a better mouse trap, from the atoms up

UConn researchers develop a systematized approach to materials design using machine learning. They create numerical fingerprints of polymers based on atomic configurations, enabling computers to quickly scan theoretical compounds for desired properties. The breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize the search for new materials.

SourceUniversity of Connecticut·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 4, 2016

Topological insulators: Magnetism is not causing loss of conductivity

Researchers have shown that magnetism does not cause topological insulators to lose their conductivity. Instead, they found a band gap that is significantly larger than predicted by theory and involves a different causal mechanism. The study suggests that scattering processes may be responsible for opening the band gap.

Manipulating wrinkles could lead to graphene semiconductors

Researchers at RIKEN have discovered that wrinkles in graphene can form a junction-like structure, changing its electronic properties from zero-gap conductor to semiconductor and back. By manipulating the carbon structure using scanning tunneling microscopy, they have opened up new possibilities for graphene engineering.

SourceRIKEN·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 23, 2015

Carbyne morphs when stretched

Rice University scientists discovered that stretching carbyne by just 3% opens a band gap, enabling semiconducting properties. This finding could revolutionize mechanically activated nanoscale electronics and optics.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 21, 2014

Fabrication on patterned silicon carbide produces bandgap to advance graphene electronics

By fabricating graphene structures atop nanometer-scale steps etched into silicon carbide, researchers have created a substantial electronic bandgap suitable for room-temperature electronics. The bandgap allows for the fabrication of transistors and other devices, potentially opening the door for developing all-carbon integrated circuits.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateNov 18, 2012

Photonic gels are colorful sensors

Researchers at Rice University and MIT developed a thin-film polymer metamaterial that changes color in response to ions, enabling the creation of inexpensive sensors for food spoilage detection, security, and high-contrast displays. The sensors can be tuned to react in specific ways by adjusting the solvent used.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·DateOct 10, 2012

Metal oxides hold the key to cheap, green energy

A new study by Binghamton University researcher Louis Piper reveals that metal oxides can be tailored to meet specific needs, enabling efficient energy generation and flat screen display technology. By adjusting the band gap of these materials, researchers can optimize their electronic properties for various applications.

SourceBinghamton University·JournalPhysical Review B·DateApr 18, 2012

Progress on research of polymer solar cells

Scientists have designed a new type of polymer solar cell that can effectively tune its band gap and energy levels by incorporating different acceptor groups. The resulting polymers exhibit promising photovoltaic properties, with high open-circuit voltages achieved despite their varying band gaps.

Lehigh researchers hone radiation source for THz devices

Terahertz (THz) frequencies have potential applications in medicine, remote sensing, imaging, and satellite communications. Lehigh researcher Yujie J. Ding has developed a compact THz radiation source that can generate coherent waves with high output powers, enabling new diagnostic tools and monitoring technologies.

SourceLehigh University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateFeb 20, 2004