Caught in the actinium
Researchers grew crystals containing actinium and studied its atomic structure, revealing how it interacts with surrounding atoms. The study could help design better targeted alpha therapy for cancer treatment.
Crystals
Articles tagged with Crystals
New Rice research projects aim to ‘transform’ future of advanced materials
Boris Yakobson aims to transform the future of advanced materials through Rice University research. His projects focus on developing predictive synthesis models and automating the search for new materials, with applications in energy and electronics.
Researchers achieve dual-functional supramolecular materials
Scientists at Yokohama National University have developed a novel approach to create dual-pore molecular crystals with two distinct functionalities. By using quasi-racemates, the researchers achieved social self-sorting of two pairs of quasi-racemates to form ring-shaped molecules with varying pore sizes.
Not all calcite crystals are as perfect as they appear
Scientists discovered that synthesis methods can alter calcite crystals' internal structure, affecting its reactivity and properties. This discovery has implications for long-term carbon storage and the development of durable materials.
Estimating the energy of past earthquakes from brecciation in a fault zone
Researchers found that the energy dissipated by past earthquakes was significantly higher than expected, suggesting repeated earthquakes with magnitudes of 5.8-8.3 Mw. The unique pattern of fragmentation in the breccia provided valuable evidence to estimate the energy of past earthquakes.
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.
Novel diamond quantum magnetometer for ambient condition magnetoencephalography
Researchers have developed a highly sensitive diamond quantum magnetometer that can achieve practical ambient condition magnetoencephalography. The novel magnetometer uses a single crystalline diamond to detect magnetic fields, achieving record sensitivities of up to 9.4 pT Hz-1/2 in the frequency range of 5 to 100 Hz.
SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Applied·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2024
Towards next-gen functional materials: direct observation of electron transfer in solids
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have developed a novel approach to directly observe electron transfer in solids using X-ray crystal structure analysis. This breakthrough could lead to advancements in energy storage, nanotechnology, and materials science research.
SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 4, 2024
Scientists develop “x-ray vision” technique to see inside crystals
Researchers at New York University create a new method to see inside crystals, revealing the position of every unit and creating dynamic three-dimensional models. This technique allows scientists to study crystals' chemical history and form, paving the way for better crystal growth and photonic materials.
Fresh findings: Earliest evidence of life-bringing freshwater on Earth
Researchers have found evidence of fresh water on Earth dating back to four billion years ago, shedding light on the planet's early history and the emergence of life. This discovery suggests landmasses and freshwater played a crucial role in supporting life within a relatively short time frame after the planet formed.
‘Fossilizing’ cracks in infrastructure creates sealing that can even survive earthquakes
A team of researchers at Nagoya University has developed a novel method to seal cracks and fractures in rocks using a concretion-forming resin. The resin holds its shape and seals flow-paths rapidly, withstanding six earthquakes in a test period, making it more durable than conventional cement-based materials.
New crystal production method could enhance quantum computers and electronics
UC Irvine researchers create ultra-thin bismuth sheets for flexible technologies, revealing hidden electronic behaviors and quantum oscillations. The new production method uses compression and molding techniques, potentially simplifying mass production of electronic devices.
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
Tiny displacements, giant changes in optical properties
Researchers found that tiny displacements of picoscale atoms can significantly impact optical properties, leading to potential applications in imaging and remote sensing. By controlling the degree of atomic disorder, they aim to develop crystals with advanced infrared imaging capabilities.
Atomic nucleus excited with laser: a breakthrough after decades
Physicists have achieved a breakthrough by exciting thorium atomic nuclei with lasers for the first time, enabling precise tracking of their return to original energy states. This discovery has far-reaching implications for precision measurement techniques, including nuclear clocks and fundamental questions in physics.
SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 29, 2024
Lead-vacancy centers in diamond as building blocks for large-scale quantum networks
A team of researchers created a single negatively charged lead-vacancy center in diamond, which emits photons with specific frequencies not influenced by the crystal's vibrational energy. This characteristic makes the PbV center a promising building block for large-scale quantum networks.
SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 24, 2024
Physicists discover a novel quantum state in an elemental solid
Researchers at Princeton University have discovered a novel quantum effect termed “hybrid topology” in a crystalline material made of arsenic atoms. This finding combines two forms of topological quantum behavior—edge states and surface states, creating a new state of matter.
High-brightness green InP-based QLEDs enabled by in-situ passivating core surface with zinc myristate
Researchers have developed a method to improve the optoelectronic properties of InP-based QDs, resulting in high-brightness green InP-based QLEDs. The new synthesis strategy uses zinc myristate to protect the core surface from oxidation, leading to improved quantum yields and luminescence performance.
SourceSongshan Lake Materials Laboratory·JournalMaterials Futures·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 9, 2024
Old crystal, new story for enhancing deep ultraviolet laser performance
A team of researchers from the Chinese Academy of Sciences has successfully developed a high-power, narrow-linewidth solid-state deep ultraviolet laser at 193 nm using LBO crystals. The generated DUV laser exhibits an average power of 60 mW and a linewidth of approximately 640 MHz, setting new benchmarks in efficiency values.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 1, 2024
Automated calculation of surface properties in crystals
Scientists create high-throughput automation to calculate surface properties of crystalline materials using established laws of physics. This accelerates the search for relevant materials for applications in energy conversion, production, and storage.
SourceUniversity of Oldenburg·Journalnpj Computational Materials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateMar 28, 2024
Filming ultrafast molecular motions in single crystal
Scientists have applied time-resolved serial femtosecond crystallography (TR-SFX) to study molecular motion in real-time with atomic resolution, revealing three pathways of structural change in a porous coordination network sample. This breakthrough unlocks new opportunities for investigating chemical systems and material science.
Molecular crystal motors move like microbes when exposed to light
Researchers have created molecular crystal motors that move in response to light, using photoisomerization to drive coordinated movements. The motors show remarkable durability and resistance to corrosion, making them suitable for biomedical applications.
What a view: Rice scientists develop a new system to record 2D crystal synthesis in real time
Researchers at Rice University have developed a custom-built miniaturized chemical vapor deposition (CVD) system that can observe and record the growth of 2D MoS2 crystals in real-time. Through advanced image processing and machine learning algorithms, they were able to extract valuable insights into the growth processes of these mater...
The new system allows to look at phenomena that occur in special “topological” materials by video recording the motion of pendula
The study reveals insights into topological materials by visualizing the motion of coupled pendula, reproducing behaviors of electrons in periodic systems. The researchers directly measure Bloch oscillations and Zener tunneling phenomena, previously impossible to observe in quantum systems.
Healable cathode could unlock potential of solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries
Researchers developed a new cathode material composed of sulfur and iodine, increasing electrical conductivity by 11 orders of magnitude and possessing a low melting point. The new material can be easily re-melted to repair damaged interfaces, addressing cumulative damage during repeated charging and discharging.
Isomerism can control and increase the diversity of structure of covalent organic frameworks, emerging nanoporous solids
Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology discovered a method to generate three types of structural isomers in 3D-COFs, increasing their diversity and potential applications. The creation of these isomers allows for tunable properties such as density and pore size.
SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 5, 2024
Calcium crystal deposits in the knee contribute to joint damage
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have found that calcium crystal deposits in the knee can contribute to worsening of joint damage. The study, using computerized x-ray imaging, detected a higher amount of deposits than previously found by plain radiographs, and found an increased risk of cartilage damage.
SourceBoston University School of Medicine·JournalArthritis & Rheumatology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 28, 2024
Diamonds are a chip's best friend
Researchers at Kyoto University have determined the magnitude of spin-orbit interaction in acceptor-bound excitons in a semiconductor. The study revealed two triplets separated by a spin-orbit splitting of 14.3 meV, supporting the hypothesis that two positively charged holes are more strongly bound than an electron-and-hole pair.
Pore power: high-speed droplet production in microfluidic devices
Researchers have developed a new microfluidic system that utilizes porous inverse colloidal crystal structures to dramatically improve the efficiency of microdroplet generation. The system can produce droplets around 1,000 times faster than traditional devices, enabling applications in medicine, food, cosmetics, and more.
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
Clutch-stack-driven molecular gears in crystals could propel material innovation
Scientists develop a new design strategy for molecular-sized gears in crystals, allowing for controllable shifting of motion. The creation of molecular gears could lead to the development of versatile, new materials with unique properties.
SourceHokkaido University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 19, 2024
Water as a nonlinear medium for ultrabroadband white laser
Researchers use water as a nonlinear medium to create a supercontinuum white laser covering an impressive spectral range from UV to far infrared. The resulting ultrabroadband source has potential in ultrafast spectroscopy, hyperspectral imaging, and scientific research.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics Nexus·DateJan 16, 2024
Chemistry and Crystals: Politecnico di Milano's hydrogel study on the cover of Chemistry
Researchers at Politecnico di Milano have designed a hydrogel with specific characteristics using supramolecular chemistry and crystallography. The study showed that the interactions between an amino acid and bioactive molecules can be identical in both solid and aqueous states.
Long dormant volcanoes can erupt rapidly and explosively
New research reveals signs before a volcano erupts after tens of thousands of years of dormancy, including changes in magma composition and crystal formation. The study found that water-rich recharge magmas played a key role in triggering explosive eruptions, with amphibole being a critical indicator.
New method for determining the water content of water-soluble compounds
Researchers at University of Eastern Finland developed a new method for accurate determination of water content in water-soluble compounds, utilizing solution-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The method is simple, accurate and quick, with results comparable to traditional methods like TGA and X-ray crystallography.
Single ions in nano-sized particles: a new platform for quantum information processing
Researchers have successfully addressed and detected single rare-earth ions within an ensemble of atoms in a nanoparticle, enabling efficient light-matter interaction. This discovery brings researchers closer to creating a robust system for low-loss and fast interface between nodes of the future quantum internet.
Alpine rock reveals dynamics of plate movements in Earth’s interior
Researchers analyzed whiteschist from the Dora Maira Massif to study rapid upward movements, revealing a sharp decrease in pressure or decompression. This suggests that UHP rocks may not have reached a depth of 120 kilometers before returning to the surface.
SourceGoethe University Frankfurt·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateOct 27, 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.
The Moon is 40 million years older than previously thought
Researchers at Northwestern University and Field Museum analyzed lunar crystals to determine the Moon's age, finding it to be approximately 4.46 billion years old, 40 million years older than previous estimates. This discovery sheds light on the Moon's formation and its impact on the Earth's planetary system.
SourceNorthwestern University·JournalGeochemical Perspectives Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 23, 2023
Crystals brought back by astronauts show that the Moon is 40 million years older than scientists thought
Researchers used ancient lunar crystals brought back from the Moon to determine its minimum possible age, pushing back its formation by 40 million years to at least 4.46 billion years old. The discovery sheds light on the Moon's role in stabilizing Earth's rotation and tidal patterns.
Surprising discovery shows electron beam radiation can repair nanostructures
Researchers at the University of Minnesota discovered that electron beam radiation can repair cracks in nanostructures, a process critical for improving electronic devices. The self-healing crystals could lead to more efficient and cost-effective materials.
Scientists discover ‘flipping’ layers in heterostructures to cause changes in their properties
Researchers found that changing the stacking order of layers in transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) semiconductors creates new optoelectronic devices with tailor-made properties. The study reveals dark excitons exclusively located in the top layer, which can be utilized for optical power switches in solar panels.
SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 10, 2023
Ionic crystal generates molecular ions upon positron irradiation, finds new study
Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have discovered a method to generate molecular ions from an ionic crystal by bombarding it with positrons. This breakthrough could lead to new applications in materials science, cancer therapy, and quantum computing.
SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 10, 2023
Groundbreaking study shows defects spreading through diamond faster than the speed of sound
A groundbreaking study reveals that linear defects in diamond can spread at speeds exceeding the speed of sound, which could impact our understanding of material strength, failure, and manufacturing. This discovery may lead to new insights into earthquake ruptures, structural failures, and precision manufacturing.
SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 5, 2023
Successful morphing of inorganic perovskites without damaging their functional properties
Researchers at City University of Hong Kong successfully morphed all-inorganic perovskites into various shapes at room temperature without compromising their functional properties. The findings demonstrate the potential of these semiconductors for next-generation deformable electronics and energy systems.
Making elbow room: Giant molecular rotors operate in solid crystal
A team at Hokkaido University has set a size record for dynamic motion in crystals, demonstrating the largest molecular rotor operational in the solid-state. The rotors consist of a central rotating molecule connected to stationary stator molecules, and can rotate at frequencies of 100–400 kHz.
SourceHokkaido University·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023
Accelerating sustainable semiconductors with ‘multielement ink’
Researchers have developed a new semiconducting material called multielement ink that can be processed at low temperatures, paving the way for more sustainable semiconductor industry. The breakthrough enables faster and lower-energy production of semiconductors, which could significantly reduce carbon emissions.
SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023
Researchers reveal electronic nematicity without charge density waves in titanium-based kagome metal
A team of researchers from Boston College has observed electronic nematic order as a stand-alone phase in a titanium-based Kagome metal. The study revealed the presence of electronic unidirectionality without charge density waves, which challenges current understanding of this phenomenon.
Automated medical imaging framework revolutionizes schistosomiasis diagnosis
Researchers developed an innovative optical tool, the Schistoscope, to capture microscopy images of urine samples for efficient detection of Schistosoma haematobium eggs. A two-stage diagnostic framework using deep learning accurately identified and counted eggs in field settings with high sensitivity, specificity, and precision.
SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Medical Imaging·DateAug 7, 2023
Towards artificial photosynthesis with engineering of protein crystals in bacteria
Scientists at Tokyo Institute of Technology have engineered protein crystals in bacteria to produce hybrid solid catalysts for artificial photosynthesis. These catalysts exhibit high activity and stability, with the potential to convert CO2 into formate upon exposure to light.
Semiconductor devices for high-temperature environments exceeding 800°C
Researchers developed AlN diodes and transistors that can function above 300°C, with a record-breaking operation temperature of 827°C. The new devices were fabricated using sapphire substrates and nickel electrodes, which remained stable at high temperatures.
Crafting molecular puzzles: A strategic approach to developing robust porous molecular crystals
Researchers developed a stable, porous molecular crystal using triptycene as a building block, leveraging noncovalent interactions to create a flexible material with high solubility and self-healing capabilities. The synthesized PMC exhibits excellent thermal and chemical resistance, making it suitable for various applications.
SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 20, 2023
Unlocking the power of molecular crystals: a possible solution to nuclear waste
Researchers have discovered molecular crystals with exceptional iodine capture capacities, which could prevent radioactive waste from damaging reactor coatings. The crystals can be reused and have potential applications beyond iodine capture, including carbon dioxide capture and lithium-ion battery materials.
AI researchers have developed an algorithm to determine the properties of two-dimensional materials by analyzing their defects
Researchers developed an AI algorithm to predict the properties of new 2D materials with point defects, achieving 3.7 times greater accuracy than other machine learning algorithms. The model operates 1000 times faster than quantum mechanical computations and can handle multiple defects simultaneously.
SourceNational Research University Higher School of Economics·Journalnpj Computational Materials·DateJul 18, 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.
The surprising path to life: Breaking free from Plate Tectonics
A groundbreaking study finds that microbial life can exist without plate tectonics, challenging a fundamental theory of geology. Zircon crystals from the Barberton Greenstone Belt reveal a stagnant lid regime on ancient Earth, leading to continent formation and potentially habitable conditions.
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
“Two peas in a pod?” Molding two-dimensional organic molecule crystals
Scientists at POSTECH successfully grow two-dimensional molecular crystals, demonstrating control over exciton interactions. The findings could enable various applications in organic semiconductors and solar power generation.
SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 13, 2023
Melts in the light, not in your hand: novel crystal compound melts under ultraviolet light
Researchers from Osaka University discovered a novel material that transitions from a crystal to a liquid when exposed to ultraviolet irradiation, enabling a detailed understanding of the crystal-melting process. The material exhibits changes in luminescence during melting, indicating molecular-level changes in shape.
Researchers discover liquid quasicrystal with dodecagonal tiling pattern
A team of researchers has discovered a liquid quasicrystal with a dodecagonal honeycomb structure, consisting of triangular, square, and trapezoidal cells. The discovery provides new insights into the formation of these special structures and offers promising applications in optics and electronics.
SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalNature Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 10, 2023