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A closer look at the dynamics of the p-Laplacian Allen–Cahn equation

A team of researchers from Korea investigated the dynamics of the p-Laplacian AC equation, finding that solutions maintain three criteria: phase separation, boundedness, and energy decay properties. They also identified an advantage of p-AC equation over classical Laplacian in adjusting interface sharpness.

SourceIncheon National University·JournalApplied Mathematics and Computation·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2022

Revolutionary images of the birth of crystals

Researchers have successfully visualized crystal nucleation, a crucial stage in crystallization, using Raman microspectroscopy and optical trapping. This breakthrough enables better understanding of molecular dynamics and may lead to the development of purer and more stable crystals for pharmaceuticals and other industries.

SourceUniversité de Genève·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeNews article·DateApr 21, 2022

Rice lab improves recipe for valuable chemical

The Rice University lab has improved the recipe for synthesizing molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), a highly sought-after material for its semiconducting properties. By using iodized salt, the team was able to speed up the synthesis process while reducing growth temperatures.

SourceRice University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateApr 18, 2022

2D material in three dimensions

Scientists at Vienna University of Technology have successfully integrated large surface areas of graphene into limited volumes by producing it on complex branched nanostructures. This breakthrough enables increased storage capacity for hydrogen and higher sensitivity in chemical sensors.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalCarbon·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 31, 2022

Glass as stable as crystal : homogeneity leads to stability

Researchers from The University of Tokyo Institute of Industrial Science used computer simulations to study the aging mechanism that can cause an amorphous glassy material to turn into a crystal. By removing tiny irregularities in local densities, they found that it prevents atomic avalanches that trigger ordered structure formation.

Ultra-large single-crystal WS2 monolayer

Researchers develop new epitaxial growth mechanism to achieve large-scale single-crystal WS2 monolayers, overcoming a crucial hurdle in replacing silicon with 2D materials. The technique enables uniform alignment of small crystals and leads to the successful growth of wafer-scale single-crystals of WS2, MoS2, WSe2, and MoSe2.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 15, 2021

Weak bonds a strength in making borophene

Borophene, a 2D version of boron, can be synthesized on hexagonal boron nitride using weak van der Waals forces. This method allows for easier removal and evaluation of the material for its plasmonic and photonic properties, as well as its electronic properties relevant to superconductivity.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 12, 2021

A sustainable revolution for drugs, agriculture and food industry of the future: Cryform project starts at the Politecnico di Torino

The CryForm project aims to replace synthetic stabilizing agents with crystalline materials, enabling innovative multiphase formulations for safer, more sustainable and affordable products. The project will develop biocompatible crystals for pharmaceutical, cosmetic and food applications, contributing to the European Green Deal.

This pyramid scheme could be helpful

Rice University researchers have developed a method to control the growth of tetrahedron-shaped nanoparticles, which can be used as building blocks for unique metamaterials. The team discovered that balancing thermodynamic and kinetic forces during crystallization allows for symmetry breaking, forming pyramid-shaped nanocrystals.

SourceRice University·JournalACS Nano·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 22, 2021

Taking the pain out of kidney stone analysis

A team of scientists has reported a technique that provides the most detailed picture of kidney stone components yet. The researchers used a novel method to analyze kidney stones, revealing the distribution of three different proteins and their role in crystal growth.

SourceOsaka University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeObservational study·DateAug 26, 2021

Earth grows fine gems in minutes

Research from Rice University found that certain cooling magmas can grow large crystals in just hours or days, defying traditional understanding of crystal growth. The study used advanced techniques to measure the chemical composition and growth rates of sample crystals, revealing surprisingly fast growth rates.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 6, 2020

Pressing 'pause' on nature's crystal symmetry

Drexel researchers have discovered a way to chemically manipulate polymer structures to form spherical crystals with controlled symmetry. This technique could improve the mass production of targeted therapies by allowing for precise control over crystal shape and size.

SourceDrexel University·JournalNature Communications·DateMay 1, 2020

Study reveals breach of 'dancing' barrier governs crystal growth

Researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago have identified a general mechanism governing crystal growth that scientists can manipulate when developing new materials. The 'dancing' barrier surrounding crystal-forming molecules is shown to fluctuate under different conditions, allowing molecules to break free and form crystals.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Chicago·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 12, 2019