Chemical Physics
Articles tagged with Chemical Physics
Quantum algorithms for improving surface coatings
Researchers develop quantum algorithms to simulate polymer degradation caused by UV radiation, using industrially relevant aircraft coatings as an example. The goal is to optimize surface coatings for various industries, improving safety and reducing costs.
Announcing the 2026 Laureates of the Blavatnik Awards for Young Scientists in Israel
Three young scientists in Israel have been awarded the prestigious Blavatnik Awards for their innovative research in chemistry, cancer biology, and astrophysics. Sergey Semenov, Uri Ben-David, and Paz Beniamini will each receive US$100,000 to advance their projects on complex materials, cancer treatments, and extreme cosmic events.
Twisting water
The study reveals that the first four layers of water molecules possess a well-defined orientational structure with alternating molecular tilt and twist angles. This new understanding has important implications for processes at aqueous interfaces, including electrochemical devices such as batteries.
How rock removes CO2 from the atmosphere
Researchers at TU Wien have demonstrated a remarkable mineralogical mechanism where certain minerals convert CO2 into solid carbonate quickly, mediated by water. This process enables rapid CO2 capture and storage in rocks, potentially solving the issue of atmospheric CO2 removal.
Scientists create a magnet with almost no magnetic field
Researchers at DTU have developed a new magnetic material that features a stable internal magnetic structure and almost no external magnetic field, above room temperature. This could enable faster components and lower energy consumption in spintronics.
The dynamic heart of Cu/ZnO/Al2O3 catalysts
Researchers investigate Cu/ZnO/Al2O3 nanoparticles using operando TEM, revealing dynamic structural changes during methanol synthesis. A 'frustrated phase transition' is identified, where the catalyst constantly transforms between states, driving its high activity and stability.
“Why water is special” mystery finally solved.
A team of researchers from Pohang University of Science & Technology has identified the underlying cause of water's unique properties, solving a fundamental mystery in science. They have observed water's liquid-liquid critical point, which marks the transition from two distinct liquid states into a single supercritical liquid state.
Porous nanofibrils spun from supramolecules with intrinsic cavities
Researchers created a new type of microporous aerogel that overcomes limitations of conventional materials, enabling flexible and highly processable shapes. The material's flexibility arises from reversible van der Waals interactions between metal–organic polyhedra molecules.
Light-activated material offers new approach to carbon dioxide conversion
Scientists have developed a light-activated material that can convert carbon dioxide into carbon monoxide, a key building block for fuels and chemicals, using sunlight and water. The material, which combines ideas from biology and materials science, produces CO extremely efficiently with no detectable by-products.
Hunted by neanderthals: Giant elephants traveled hundreds of kilometers across ice-age europe
Researchers analyzed the teeth of four European straight-tusked elephants, discovering they migrated up to 300km before reaching their final habitat. The study suggests organized hunting and cooperation between Neanderthals and the elephants.
Press program now available for the world's largest physics meeting
The Global Physics Summit will feature over 12,000 individual presentations on new research in astrophysics, particle physics, and quantum information science. Registered journalists and public information officers will receive daily emails with information during the meeting.
New “lock-and-key” chemistry
Researchers have developed a new chemistry-based strategy to localize therapeutic drugs to tumors, reducing harm to healthy tissues. The 'lock-and-key' system uses biorthogonal supramolecular chemistry to release drugs in specific locations, offering a potential path to safer and more precise cancer treatment.
Last chance to get a hotel discount for the world’s largest physics meeting
The American Physical Society's Global Physics Summit will feature over 10,000 individual presentations on new research in astrophysics and particle physics. Attendees can book discounted hotel rates near the Colorado Convention Center until February 12 to receive a discount.
From biocidal coatings to medicines: A nanocomposite sting for microorganisms
The B-STING silica nanocomposite acts as a nanofactory of reactive oxygen species, activating itself in response to changes in the chemical environment. This material can be used to create biocidal coatings that are safe, durable, and resistant to dirt, with potential applications in medicine and other industries.
Watching atoms roam before they decay
A team of researchers investigated electron-transfer-mediated decay (ETMD), a key process in radiation chemistry and biological damage. They found that atoms undergo pronounced roaming-like motion, reshaping molecular geometry and influencing decay timing.
World's largest physics conference to be held in Denver and online this March
The American Physical Society's Global Physics Summit will convene over 14,000 physicists worldwide for groundbreaking research presentations. The event will feature both in-person and online experiences, including scientific sessions, exhibits, and networking events.
Understanding fuel cell catalysts
Researchers at Fritz Haber Institute have made significant strides in understanding fuel-cell catalysts under industrially relevant conditions. They discovered that the rate-limiting steps and their degree of rate control change as a function of overpotential and pressure, challenging traditional views on multi-step reactions.
The perfect plastic? Plant-based, fully saltwater degradable, zero microplastics
Researchers at RIKEN have developed a new plant-based plastic made from cellulose that rapidly degrades in natural environments, eliminating microplastic waste. The biodegradable plastic can be adjusted in strength and flexibility with added choline chloride, providing a practical solution to ocean pollution.
Listening to the 'whispers' of electrons and crystals: A quantum discovery
Researchers at Tohoku University have discovered a universal quantum rule governing electron-phonon coupling strength, which is linked to the fine-structure constant. The study reveals that this strength is quantized and universally applies to crystals, with implications for designing materials with tailored properties.
A new kind of copper from the research reactor
Scientists at TU Wien have created an alternative production method for Cu-64, a crucial copper isotope used in medicine. By harnessing recoil chemistry and utilizing a specially designed metal–organic complex, they can efficiently separate the desired isotope from ordinary copper.
Observing quantum footballs blown up by laser kicks
Researchers from two Max Planck Institutes directly observe the strong reshaping of C60 molecules by laser fields using x-ray camera. At low intensities, the molecule expands before fragmentation sets in, while at high intensities, fast expansion and removal of outer valence electrons occur.
Preventing dangerous short circuits in lithium batteries
TUM researchers discovered that dendrite growth can occur inside polymer-based electrolytes, which are supposed to protect against short circuits. This finding challenges the assumption that dendrite growth occurs only at the interface between electrode and electrolyte.
Controlling next-generation energy conversion materials with simple pressure
A new study provides guidelines on creating photoreactive molecules sensitive to mechanical stimuli using flexible linkers. The findings may open possibilities for highly efficient energy conversion devices and advanced medical therapies.
Scientists unlock new energy potential in iron-based materials
Researchers have discovered a way to increase the energy state of iron in materials, enabling the creation of higher-voltage batteries. The breakthrough could also aid the development of superconductors and magnetism applications.
The power of geckos: TU Wien solves the puzzle of large molecules
Researchers at TU Wien have developed a new computational method that accurately calculates van der Waals forces between large molecules, resolving decades-long discrepancies. The improved method corrects errors in existing approaches and enables reliable predictions for biological systems and renewable energy technologies.
Common metal, unusual power
A novel manganese(I) complex has been developed, combining a record-breaking excited-state lifetime with simple synthesis, offering a powerful and sustainable alternative to noble metal complexes. The complex exhibits strong absorption and overcomes the challenges of tedious synthesis and short lifetimes of excited states.
New ‘In and Out’ mechanism reveals how carbon dioxide reacts at water’s surface
Researchers discovered a new 'In and Out' mechanism where CO₂ briefly dips into the topmost layer of water, reacts, and then reemerges. This challenges previous assumptions about where and how CO₂ can turn into carbonic acid, suggesting faster ocean acidification.
High-frequency molecular vibrations initiate electron movement
A team of scientists observed the earliest steps of ultrafast charge transfer in a complex dye molecule, with high-frequency vibrations playing a central role. The experiments showed that these vibrations initiate charge transport, while processes in the surrounding solvent begin only at a later stage.
FAU lands $700,000 U.S. EPA grant to monitor water quality in Lake Okeechobee
A new project at FAU aims to advance water quality monitoring in Lake Okeechobee by understanding how common contaminants break down after being released into freshwater environments. The team will deploy passive sampling devices and use cutting-edge chemical analysis to predict which contaminants are forming dangerous byproducts.
Nanostructures transcend boundaries (of grains in metals)
Physicists from the IFJ PAN in Cracow have successfully produced homogeneous coatings of titanium oxide nanotubes on large metal surfaces, overcoming the obstacle of crystal grain boundaries. The method combines nanoparticle lithography and electrochemical anodization, enabling controlled material properties.
Nano-engineered photocatalyst sets milestone for solar fuel production
Researchers developed nanosized, porous oxyhalide photocatalysts that achieve record performance in producing hydrogen from water and converting carbon dioxide to formic acid using sunlight. The breakthrough offers a scalable, eco-friendly approach to solar fuel production by carefully controlling particle size and structure.
Electron beam irradiation helping to turn plastic waste into gas
Researchers at National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology developed a technique to decompose polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) into gaseous products using electron beam irradiation. This process reduces energy required by 50% compared to traditional methods, making large-scale recycling of fluoropolymers more viable.
Youngest basaltic lunar meteorite fills nearly one billion-year gap in Moon’s volcanic history
A 2.35-billion-year-old meteorite offers fresh insights into the Moon's volcanic history and suggests ongoing internal heat generation processes. The rock's distinct composition provides new constraints on when and how volcanic activity occurred on the Moon.
Researchers at IOCB Prague predict a new physical phenomenon through advanced molecular modeling
A research team at IOCB Prague has discovered a previously unknown phenomenon where a liquid transitions between metallic and nonmetallic states without settling in either. The study proposes a new hypothesis: ultrafast switching between the two phases on a timescale of tens of femtoseconds.
Accordion effect makes graphene stretchable
Researchers at the University of Vienna have made graphene drastically more stretchable by rippling it like an accordion. This discovery reveals a new property of graphene and paves the way for applications requiring certain stretchability.
Evidence blasted into space: Mystery why some meteorites look less shocked solved
A Kobe University study finds that carbon-containing meteorites appear less shocked because gases produced during impacts are ejected into space, revealing a new understanding of shock metamorphism. The team's guidelines for future missions also predict the accumulation of highly-shocked material on dwarf planet Ceres.
Shining a light on DNA: a rapid, ultra-sensitive, PCR-free detection method
A new method for DNA detection uses heterogeneous probe particles and laser light to accelerate genetic analysis. This PCR-free technique offers greater sensitivity and speed than traditional methods, making it more accessible for medical, environmental, and personal health applications.
Physics student pushes boundaries in nuclear research as 2025 Los Alamos-Texas A&M Fellow
Ryan Amberger, a Ph.D. candidate in physics at Texas A&M University, has been selected for a 2025 Los Alamos-Texas A&M Fellowship to conduct dissertation research on nuclear astrophysics. He aims to improve understanding of the s-process by studying neutron cross sections.
Study tracks chromium chemistry in irradiated molten salts
Scientists used radiation-induced reactions to convert corrosive Cr³⁺ to less-corrosive Cr²⁺, potentially mitigating metal alloy corrosion in molten salt nuclear reactors. The findings could improve the long-term reliability of these new reactors.
How calcium may have unlocked the origins of life’s molecular asymmetry
A new study by researchers at the Institute of Science Tokyo hints that calcium ions played a crucial role in shaping life's earliest molecular structures. The team discovered that calcium dramatically alters how tartaric acid molecules link together, favoring homochiral polymers and potentially influencing the emergence of life.
Revolutionary van der Waals open frameworks: a new era in porous materials
Researchers create WaaFs with high thermal stability and reversible assembly, opening avenues for gas storage, separation, and catalysis. The frameworks utilize van der Waals interactions to form robust structures, making them suitable for industrial applications.
UTA team wins prize for vital US magnet technology
The UTA-UT Austin team will use AI, quantum simulations, and experimental techniques to develop magnets that eliminate rare-earth elements. The researchers aim to enhance U.S. energy security and accelerate sustainable energy solutions with comparable magnetic properties.
Atomic-level diamond surface polishing with high quality, efficiency, and material removal rates
A new photocatalytic chemical mechanical polishing (PCMP) slurry has been developed for Single Crystal Diamond (SCD) polishing, resulting in exceptionally smooth surfaces with minimal damage. The Material Removal Rate (MRR) peaks at 1168 nm·h−1, emphasizing the efficiency and effectiveness of this advanced polishing technique.
Filipino scientists make aluminum transparent by using tiny acid droplets
Researchers from Ateneo de Manila University develop 'droplet-scale anodization' technique to transform aluminum into glass-like TAlOx with minimal electricity and chemical waste. This breakthrough could lead to cheaper and more accessible transparent coatings for various applications.
Last chance to get a hotel discount for the world’s largest physics meeting
Discounted hotel rates available at select hotels near the Anaheim Convention Center. The Global Physics Summit will feature nearly 14,000 individual presentations on new research in various fields.
Mizzou researchers invent a new tool to help lower the cost of tomorrow’s medicine
Researchers developed AshPhos, a ligand that facilitates the formation of carbon-nitrogen bonds using inexpensive materials. The tool has potential applications in pharmaceuticals, nanomaterials, and degrading PFAS pollutants.
World's largest physics conference to be held in Anaheim and online this March
The American Physical Society's joint March Meeting and April Meeting will convene more than 14,000 physicists from around the world to present new research in various fields. The conference will be held in person in Anaheim, California and online everywhere March 16-21.
Ants vs. humans: Putting group smarts to the test
In a Weizmann Institute experiment, groups of ants demonstrated superior problem-solving skills compared to human groups and individuals. Humans struggled to improve performance when working together, relying on individual calculation rather than collective strategy.
Nanotechnology: Light enables an "impossibile" molecular fit
A team of scientists has developed a method to insert a filiform molecule into the cavity of a ring-shaped molecule using light-induced reactions and self-assembly processes. This creates a molecular fit that is not possible at thermodynamic equilibrium, enabling the creation of new substances with unique properties.
The 26th Nagoya Medal of Organic Chemistry will be held on Friday, January 24th, 2025 (JST)
The 26th Nagoya Medal of Organic Chemistry will be held on January 24th, 2025, with gold medalist Professor Alois Fürstner presenting lectures on catalysis and metal-carbene chemistry. Silver medalist Professor Masayuki Inoue will discuss total synthesis of highly oxygenated natural products.
Bye-bye microplastics: new plastic is recyclable and fully ocean-degradable
Researchers developed a new durable plastic that breaks down in seawater, reducing microplastic pollution. The material is strong, non-toxic, and customizable for various applications.
The heaviest element ever chemically studied — Experiments at GSI/FAIR succeed in determining properties of moscovium and nihonium
Researchers have determined the chemical properties of moscovium and nihonium, which are more reactive than flerovium. The study uses a newly developed setup for chemical separation and detection to observe the very short-lived moscovium-288 and its daughter nihonium-284.
UTA undergraduate researcher wins state honor
Jenny Hoang, a senior at the University of Texas at Arlington, received the third-place award for her research on diazo compounds. The LSAMP program has inspired her to pursue medical school and encouraged other students to aim for Ph.D.s in physics or particle physics.
New technology produces ultrashort ion pulses
Researchers at TU Wien have developed a new method to generate extremely short, powerful ion pulses for controlled analysis of material surfaces. These pulses can be used to observe chemical processes in real-time, providing insights into surface physics and chemistry on a picosecond time scale.
Contrail avoidance is less likely to damage climate by mistake than previously thought
Researchers found that for most North Atlantic flights, the climate benefit of avoiding contrails outweighs the extra carbon dioxide emitted from flying a different route. Rerouting flights could reduce global warming by up to 29% in 2039 and 14% in 2119, depending on the method used to measure climate impact.
Towards the realization of compact and portable nuclear clocks
Researchers from Okayama University successfully controlled the population of the thorium-229 isomeric state using X-rays, a crucial step towards building a compact and portable nuclear clock. This achievement demonstrates the potential for nuclear clocks to advance fundamental physics research and other applications such as GPS systems.
Superior light-to-chemical energy conversion with Coulombic dyads
Scientists at Johannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz create a new approach to prepare highly efficient dyad photocatalysts through electrostatic interactions, outperforming established catalysts. The novel method enables the use of inexpensive additives to improve performance and durability.
Microwaving waste cooking oil into useful chemicals
A team from Kyushu University has developed a zeolite catalyst that can be heated using microwaves to speed up the conversion of fatty acid esters to olefins. This process improves energy efficiency and reduces carbon dioxide production, offering a more sustainable chemical industry.
Novel ratchet with geometrically symmetric gear driven by asymmetric surface wettability
Researchers developed a novel ratchet mechanism that converts random motion into ordered movement using asymmetric surface wettability. The gear demonstrated one-way spin with vertical oscillations at restricted frequency and amplitude ranges.