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Chemical hardness engineering boosts perovskite tandem efficiency to 30.3%

Researchers developed an additive design strategy to control crystallization in all-perovskite tandem solar cells, achieving a certified power conversion efficiency of 30.3%. The strategy promotes homogeneous nucleation and uniform crystal growth, improving film uniformity and reducing defects.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 6, 2026

Organic solvents enable handedness control in inorganic crystals

Researchers have developed a simple crystallization method that achieves chiral resolution under mild conditions, enabling the production of homochiral inorganic crystals. The study uses organic solvents and an achiral crystalline phase to control the growth environment, resulting in single-handed forms of cesium copper chloride.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalCrystal Growth & Design·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 15, 2026

Bulk inorganic crystals grown from water emit “handed” light

Researchers at Kumamoto University have successfully grown a bulk inorganic crystal from water that emits circularly polarized light. This breakthrough material has the potential to revolutionize security printing, advanced displays, and photonic technologies with simple inorganic chemistry.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 13, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

DGIST achieves significant efficiency enhancement of eco-friendly solar cells through simple temperature control

Researchers discovered that rapidly increasing temperature during material thermal processing leads to more orderly crystal growth and smoother charge transport. This results in a substantial improvement in efficiency of eco-friendly solar cells made from antimony selenide, an abundant and eco-friendly material.

SourceDGIST (Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry A·DateOct 27, 2025
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.

A 'Rosetta Stone' for molecular systems

A new mathematical framework, STIV, can predict larger-scale effects like proteins unfolding and crystals forming without costly simulations or experiments. The framework solves a 40-year-old problem in phase-field modeling, allowing for the design of smarter medicines and materials.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalJournal of Non-Equilibrium Thermodynamics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 20, 2025

World's first practical surface-emitting laser for optical fiber communications developed: advancing miniaturization, energy efficiency, and cost reduction of light sources

Researchers developed world's first practical surface-emitting laser using quantum dots, advancing miniaturization and energy efficiency of light sources. The innovation enables high-performance, scalable structures and cost reductions through mass production.

SourceNational Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT)·JournalOptics Express·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2025
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Scientists observe how blobs form crystals and discover a new crystal type

Researchers at New York University discovered a new crystal type called Zangenite, which has a hollow structure and unique properties. The crystal was found to form through a two-step process and has potential applications in developing new materials, including photonic bandgap materials.

SourceNew York University·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 28, 2025

Novel machine learning model can predict material failure before it happens

A Lehigh University team developed a novel machine learning method to predict abnormal grain growth in materials, enabling the creation of stronger, more reliable materials. The model successfully predicted abnormal grain growth in 86% of cases, with predictions made up to 20% of the material's lifetime.

SourceLehigh University·Journalnpj Computational Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 16, 2025

Overcoming stacking constraints in hexagonal boron nitride via metal-organic chemical vapor deposition

Scientists at POSTECH and University of Montpellier successfully synthesized wafer-scale hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) with an AA-stacking configuration using metal-organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). This achievement introduces a novel route for precise stacking control in van der Waals materials.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Materials·DateMar 20, 2025

Breakthrough in materials science: AI reveals secrets of dendritic growth in thin films

A new AI model developed by Tokyo University of Science's researchers predicts dendritic growth in thin films, offering a powerful pathway for optimizing thin-film fabrication. The model analyzes morphology using persistent homology and machine learning with energy analysis, revealing conditions that drive branching behavior.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalScience and Technology of Advanced Materials Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 19, 2025
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Breakthrough in rapid polymer nanostructure production

Researchers at the University of Birmingham have developed a new method for rapid scalable preparation of uniform nanostructures directly from block polymers, significantly reducing processing time from weeks to just minutes.

SourceUniversity of Birmingham·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 14, 2025

SNU researchers develop a new synthesis technology of single crystal 2D semiconductors, “Hypotaxy,” to enhance the commercialization of next-generation 2D semiconductors

Researchers developed a new growth method leveraging 2D materials as templates to enable the synthesis of perfectly single-crystal TMD films on any substrate. The 'Hypotaxy' technique holds significant industrial potential, allowing for low-temperature growth and precise control over film thickness.

SourceSeoul National University College of Engineering·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 4, 2025
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.

By the numbers: Diarylethene crystal orientation controlled for 1st time

A team from Osaka Metropolitan University has developed a crystal patterning method that controls the position and orientation of photochromic crystals, known as diarylethenes. This breakthrough allows for the creation of convex structures with precise control over crystal shape and size.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalSmall Methods·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 23, 2025

Scientists learn how to make nanotubes that point in one direction

Researchers at Tokyo Metropolitan University have developed a new technique to grow arrayed tungsten disulfide nanotubes with aligned orientations. This breakthrough resolves the issue of jumbled orientations in collected amounts of nanotubes, enabling the exploration of exotic electric and optoelectronic properties.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalNano Letters·DateDec 14, 2024

Dynamics of structural transformation for liquid crystalline blue phases

Researchers have uncovered key insights about how liquid crystals transform between different phases using direct simulation and machine learning. This study provides a clearer understanding of the microscopic-level changes in these materials, which could lead to new possibilities for advanced materials development.

SourceKyushu University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2024
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.

Innovating in the corners where atoms meet

Fadi Abdeljawad's team finds that triple junctions, where three nanocrystals meet, are key to maintaining stability and strength of materials. This discovery could lead to designing better nanocrystalline alloys for aerospace and energy industries.

SourceLehigh University·JournalNano Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 16, 2024

New theory demystifies crystallization process

A new theory reveals that the solvent, not solute, is the dominant component in solution, leading to improved understanding of crystal formation. Thermodynamic phase diagrams demonstrate that crystals grow through a melt-like intermediate before organizing into a crystal structure.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 2, 2024

New filtration material could remove long-lasting chemicals from water

A new filtration material developed by MIT researchers uses natural silk and cellulose to remove persistent chemicals, including PFAS and heavy metals. The material's antimicrobial properties help keep filters clean, providing a nature-based solution to water contamination.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Nano·DateSep 5, 2024
Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach

Garmin GPSMAP 67i with inReach provides rugged GNSS navigation, satellite messaging, and SOS for backcountry geology and climate field teams.

Chung-Ang University study reveals a way to enhance the efficiency of perovskite solar cells

Researchers at Chung-Ang University have discovered an additive that enhances the efficiency of perovskite solar cells, resulting in a record-breaking 12.22% efficiency. The additive, 4-phenylthiosemicarbazide, improves stability and reduces defects, paving the way for more accessible and long-lasting solar panels.

SourceChung Ang University·JournalAdvanced Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 30, 2024
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.

Proteins revolutionize organ preservation

A new study reveals specialized proteins can dramatically delay ice crystal formation in extreme cold, paving the way for impossible organ transplants. Cryogenic damage compromises cellular structures, leading to irreversible damage and organ failure.

SourceThe Hebrew University of Jerusalem·JournalLangmuir·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 17, 2024

Rice lab achieves major gains in perovskite solar cell stability

Researchers at Rice University have made a breakthrough in synthesizing formamidinium lead iodide (FAPbI3) perovskite solar cells into ultrastable, high-quality photovoltaic films. The overall efficiency of the resulting FAPbI3 solar cells decreased by less than 3% over 1,000 hours of operation.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 13, 2024
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.

Shedding light on perovskite hydrides using a new deposition technique

Researchers develop a new method to grow single-crystal perovskite hydrides, allowing for accurate measurement of intrinsic H- conductivity. The technique enables the production of high-quality crystals with minimal imperfections, paving the way for sustainable energy technologies and hydrogen storage applications.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Energy Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 16, 2024

Surfaces on the move: dynamic liquefaction

RMIT researchers have found that the liquid-solid boundary can fluctuate back and forth, with metallic atoms near the surface breaking free from their crystal lattice. The phenomenon occurs at unexpectedly low temperatures and is observed up to 100 atoms in depth.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 5, 2024

UNIST researchers uncover revolutionary phenomenon in liquid crystals

Researchers at UNIST have unveiled a new principle of motion in liquid crystals, where objects can move in a directed manner by changing their sizes periodically. The discovery has far-reaching implications for the development of miniature robots and advances research in complex fluids.

SourceUlsan National Institute of Science and Technology(UNIST)·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 13, 2024
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 an age-old mystery about crystal formation

University of Houston researcher Peter Vekilov discovers two-step incorporation into crystals, mediated by an intermediate state, solving a 40-year-old riddle. The new paradigm guides the search for solvents and additives to stabilize the intermediate state and slow down unwanted polymorphs.

SourceUniversity of Houston·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateFeb 5, 2024

Deep learning reveals molecular secrets of explosive perchlorate salts

Researchers developed a novel deep learning method to study crystal structure and molecular interactions of perchlorate salts. The analysis revealed that the explosives' nature is linked to chemical bonding and intermolecular interactions.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalFirePhysChem·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateJan 25, 2024

Researchers add a ‘twist’ to classical material design

Researchers grew a twisted multilayer crystal structure, discovering a new quantum electronic property that could appear within the three-layer structure. The discovery opens up new experiments to explore new material properties and potentially lead to brand new material discoveries.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalScience·DateJan 24, 2024
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

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

Artificial intelligence unravels mysteries of polycrystalline materials

Researchers at Nagoya University used AI to analyze image data of polycrystalline silicon and discovered staircase-like structures that cause dislocations during crystal growth. The study sheds light on the formation of dislocations in polycrystalline materials, which can affect electrical conduction and overall performance.

SourceNagoya University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateDec 19, 2023

Tunable shells to encapsulate tiny droplets

Researchers at IISc create a novel technique to coat droplets in composite shells containing oil-loving and hydrophobic particles. This method offers flexible shell thickness control over a wide range, enabling the encapsulation of droplets with different sizes.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalNature Communications·DateDec 14, 2023

Breakthrough synthesis method improves solar cell stability

Researchers have developed a new synthesis method that controls the temperature and duration of the crystallization process to produce 2D halide perovskite layers with ideal thickness and purity. This breakthrough improves the stability and reduces the cost of solar cells, making them a viable option for emerging technologies.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Synthesis·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 26, 2023
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a trusted meter for precise measurements during instrument integration, repairs, and field diagnostics.

Cathode active materials for lithium-ion batteries could be produced at low temperatures

A team of researchers at Hokkaido University has developed a new method to synthesize layered lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) at low temperatures, reducing synthesis time from hours to minutes. The hydroflux process produces crystalline LiCoO2 with properties only marginally inferior to commercially available materials.

SourceHokkaido University·JournalInorganic Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2023

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers reveal the effect of AIN surface pits on GaN remote epitaxy

GIST researchers found that nano-sized pits on AlN surfaces cause graphene degradation at higher temperatures, leading to GaN film exfoliation failure. The study's results demonstrate the importance of substrate chemical and topographic properties for successful remote epitaxy.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 12, 2023

Structure formation during freeze casting filmed in 3D and real time

Researchers used X-ray tomoscopy to study freeze casting processes, observing the formation of complex, hierarchically structured materials with large surface areas. The technique provided high spatial and temporal resolution, revealing the dynamics of directional ice crystal growth and the formation of organic-looking structures.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 6, 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.

A vegan way to stop damage from excessive ice build-up and freezer burn

Researchers at the University of Tennessee have developed a vegan way to prevent freezer burn and ice damage by breaking down soy proteins into peptides that slow ice crystal growth. The study, published in ACS Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, shows promise for preserving frozen vegan foods.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry·DateJul 19, 2023

Researchers grow precise arrays of nanoLEDs

A new technique allows for the precise growth and placement of halide perovskite nanocrystals, enabling the creation of functional nanoscale devices such as nanoLEDs. This breakthrough could lead to applications in optical communication, computing, and display technology.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJul 6, 2023

2023 EPS Europhysics Prize

The prize recognizes the duo's discovery that topology can classify compounds, similar to the Periodic Table. They have predicted and designed thousands of new topological compounds and experimented with many of these.

SourceMax Planck Institute for Chemical Physics of Solids·DateJul 3, 2023

Novel spectroscopic technique for exploring relaxor–ferroelectric materials

Researchers developed a polarization-angle-resolved Raman microscope to visualize disorder effects on ferroelectric polarization. The study reveals slow response of nanometer-scale electric polarization, enabling significant charge storage and enhanced dielectric properties.

SourceRitsumeikan University·JournalCommunications Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 26, 2023

Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology researchers enhance electron–phonon coupling strength in low-dimensional strontium ruthenate

Researchers demonstrated a 300-fold increase in electron-phonon coupling strength by reducing dimensionality, paving the way for novel engineering opportunities. The enhancement was attributed to non-local nature of coupling in synthetic SRO/STO superlattices.

SourceGIST (Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology)·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 21, 2023
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Researchers reveal real-time glimpse into growth habits of nanoparticles

A team of researchers has observed nanoparticles self-assembling and crystalizing into solid materials in real time, revealing the growth process at nanometer resolution. The findings have implications for designing new materials, including thin films for electronic applications.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeObservational study·DateMar 30, 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.

Progress toward fast-charging lithium-metal batteries

Researchers have made progress toward fast-charging lithium-metal batteries by growing uniform lithium crystals on a lithiophobic nanocomposite surface. This approach enables charging in about an hour, competitive with today's lithium-ion batteries and overcoming a significant roadblock to widespread use.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 9, 2023