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Potential solvents identified for building on moon and Mars

Using machine learning and computational modeling, Washington State University researchers found six good candidates for solvents that can extract materials on the moon and Mars usable in 3D printing. The solvents, called ionic liquids, are salts in a liquid state.

SourceWashington State University·JournalThe Journal of Physical Chemistry B·DateJan 11, 2024

Stripes in a flowing liquid crystal suggest a route to “chiral” fluids

Researchers at MIT find that slow-flowing liquid crystals can spontaneously assemble into large, twisted, chiral structures, opening a new path to generating chiral materials. These structures could serve as spiral scaffolds for assembling intricate molecular structures and be used as optical sensors.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalNature Communications·DateJan 8, 2024
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Understanding the formation of minute droplets in microfluidic devices

Researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology developed a detailed understanding of microfluidic post-array devices, which are used to create monodisperse emulsions with controlled droplet size. The team found that effective capillary number and specific geometric parameters play crucial roles in droplet formation.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalLab on a Chip·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 7, 2023

‘Strange metal’ is strangely quiet in noise experiment

Rice physicists find that a 'strange metal' quantum material exhibits greatly suppressed shot noise, suggesting unconventional charge transport mechanisms. The study provides direct empirical evidence for the idea that electricity may flow through strange metals in an unusual liquidlike form.

SourceRice University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 23, 2023
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.

Intense lasers shine new light on the electron dynamics of liquids

Scientists have probed electron dynamics in liquids using intense laser fields, retrieving the electron's mean free path and gaining a deeper understanding of ultrafast processes. The research opens up new avenues for studying liquids and their role in chemical reactions.

SourceTohoku University·JournalNature Physics·DateSep 29, 2023

Intense lasers shine new light on the electron dynamics of liquids

Researchers at Max Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter demonstrated that intense laser fields can probe electron dynamics in liquids. The team found that the mechanism of high-harmonic generation is unique to liquids, with the maximum photon energy independent of laser wavelength.

SourceMax Planck Institute for the Structure and Dynamics of Matter·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 28, 2023

Light and sound waves reveal negative pressure

Scientists have developed a tiny, simple setup to make precise pressure measurements using light and sound waves. This method enables exploration of extreme thermodynamics in nanolitre volumes, revealing new properties in unique thermodynamic states of materials.

SourceMax Planck Institute for the Science of Light·JournalNature Physics·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 25, 2023
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.

Unraveling the mysteries of glassy liquids

Researchers propose a new framework to explain the emergence of 'dynamical heterogeneities' in glass-forming liquids, which become increasingly correlated as they cool down. This study provides insights into the Stoke-Einstein breakdown and suggests a new handle for understanding other complex systems with intermittent dynamics.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalPhysical Review X·DateSep 22, 2023

KMOU researchers propose a novel liquid filter for enhanced solar energy utilization

The novel liquid filter efficiently absorbs UV light and infrared radiation, increasing the energy harvesting potential of de-coupled photovoltaic-thermal systems. The proposed system has been shown to improve conversion efficiency and reduce operating temperatures, making it economically beneficial.

SourceNational Korea Maritime and Ocean University·JournalEnergy Conversion and Management·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 21, 2023

Peering into nanofluidic mysteries one photon at a time

A team of researchers has developed an innovative approach to visualize individual molecule dynamics within nanofluidic structures using super-resolution microscopy and single-photon emitters. The study reveals new insights into the behavior of liquids on a nanometer scale, opening up exciting applications in optical imaging and sensing.

SourceUniversity of Manchester·JournalNature Materials·DateAug 31, 2023

How to write in water?

Scientists at Mainz University and TU Darmstadt developed a method to write in water by utilizing microbeads that exchange ions for protons, altering local pH values. This allows ink particles to accumulate in specific areas, creating fine lines and patterns.

SourceJohannes Gutenberg Universitaet Mainz·JournalSmall·DateAug 30, 2023

Novel liquid metal nanoparticles for cancer photoimmunotherapy

Researchers have developed novel liquid metal nanoparticles that combine photothermal therapy with immunotherapy, demonstrating high specificity and low side effects. The nanoparticles can target and destroy cancer cells while also stimulating the immune system to fight against tumors.

SourceJapan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateAug 4, 2023
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

To spread or slide? Scientists uncover how foams are spread on surfaces

Researchers found that foam spreading changes with scraping speed and surface affinity, leading to different patterns on hydrophobic and hydrophilic surfaces. The study's findings apply to various soft materials, including foams, paints, and coatings.

SourceTokyo Metropolitan University·JournalJournal of Colloid and Interface Science·DateJul 29, 2023

UVA engineer innovates a liquid safety cushioning technology

Researchers developed a liquid nanofoam cushion that can absorb and dissipate high-force blows in collisions, reducing the risk of injury. The material is more flexible, comfortable to wear, and can be designed as lighter and smaller protective devices.

SourceUniversity of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 14, 2023

Breaking into tears with microrheology to design custom eye drops

A new method reveals intricate behaviors of micron-sized particles in real, artificial tears, allowing for customization of eye drops. The study aims to alleviate dry eye syndrome by providing personalized solutions with tailored formulations and characteristics.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateJul 11, 2023

Going with the flow

Researchers have developed a new method to estimate river flow rates on Mars and Titan, utilizing satellite observations and mathematical equations. The technique allows for predictions of river flow times, sediment size, and potential support for life, shedding light on these celestial bodies' geological pasts.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJul 10, 2023
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

A solid understanding of liquid-solid interaction

The University of Pittsburgh researcher is working on a three-year project to harness the potential of liquid-solid interaction for biomedical engineering and suspension bridge construction. The study aims to precisely control microrobots through the bloodstream and prevent disasters like the Tacoma Narrows Bridge collapse.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh·DateJun 29, 2023

Liquid metal sticks to surfaces without a binding agent

Scientists have developed a technique for applying liquid metal to surfaces that don't easily bond with it, using force-responsive adhesion. The method allows for the creation of electronic 'smart devices' from everyday materials like paper and plastic.

SourceCell Press·JournalCell Reports Physical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 9, 2023

Optimizing the properties and microstructure of bulk superconductors

Japanese researchers develop improved ternary superconductor bulks from liquid sources, demonstrating enhanced performance and microstructural analysis shows significant reductions in secondary phase particle size. The findings have huge potential for applications in magnetic levitation, electric motors, and energy systems.

SourceShibaura Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Alloys and Compounds·TypeExperimental study·DateJun 6, 2023

Turning waste into treasure: Second-tier structure matters for regulating liquid spreading dynamics

Researchers have developed a simplified surface design that enables liquid directional steering on the same surface as conventional designs. The new surface topography features dual reentrant curvatures and microgrooves, which regulate liquids' spreading dynamics. This innovation simplifies fabrication and opens up practical applications.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateMay 10, 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.

Some stirring required: fluid mixing enables scalable manufacturing of soft polymer structures

The new technique allows for the production of a dozen different soft polymer material morphologies, including ribbons, nanoscale sheets, rods, and branched particles. By precisely controlling three sets of parameters during manufacturing, researchers can fine-tune the morphology of polymeric materials at the micro- and nano-scale.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalAdvanced Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 10, 2023

How a record-breaking copper catalyst converts CO2 into liquid fuels

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have developed a new technique that captures real-time movies of copper nanoparticles as they convert carbon dioxide into renewable fuels and chemicals. The study reveals that metallic copper nanograins serve as active sites for CO2 reduction, paving the way for advanced solar fuel technology.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 16, 2023

Researchers develop elastic material that is impervious to gases and liquids

Researchers developed an elastic material using liquid metal that resists both gases and liquids, offering a trade-off between elasticity and gas resistance. The material, created with gallium-indium alloy, has been tested to prevent the escape of oxygen and liquids, showing promising potential for use in high-value tech packaging

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 2, 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.

Watch this person-shaped robot liquify and escape jail, all with the power of magnets

Engineers design miniature robots that can rapidly shift between liquid and solid states, with magnetic properties, to overcome traditional robot limitations. The new material is used to remove foreign objects, deliver drugs, and assemble parts in hard-to-reach spaces, opening up new possibilities for medical and engineering applications.

SourceCell Press·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 25, 2023

The clever glue keeping the cell’s moving parts connected

Researchers discovered a smart molecular glue formed by proteins clinging to microtubules, enabling nucleus positioning during cell division. The 'glue' enables mechanical forces to be transduced as desired, with flexible properties allowing it to withstand tension.

SourcePaul Scherrer Institute·JournalNature Cell Biology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 19, 2022
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.

Computational system streamlines the design of fluidic devices

A new computational tool can generate an optimal design for a complex fluidic device without requiring manual assumptions about its shape. The system uses anisotropic materials to represent tiny voxels, allowing it to create smooth curves and intricate designs that other methods cannot.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·DateDec 8, 2022

Physicist identifies how electron crystals melt

Eun-Ah Kim and Michael Matty identified a phase in between solid and liquid for electron crystals, revealing their behavior under certain conditions. In this intermediate phase, electrons arrange themselves into tiny strips that can move around and orient themselves.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 28, 2022

A nanoscale view of bubble formation

A German-Chinese research team has created a more precise understanding of the behavior of tiny droplets and vapor bubbles using computer simulation. The findings have the potential to improve cooling systems for microprocessors and enhance the efficiency of green hydrogen production, as well as aid in the development of new materials.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalJournal of Colloid and Interface Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 23, 2022
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Intense femtosecond light pulses in the mid-infrared for spectroscopic and technical applications

Researchers from the Max Born Institute report on a new light source generating ultrashort infrared pulses beyond 10 µm wavelength, exhibiting high potential for vibrational spectroscopy and optical materials processing. The system demonstrates excellent beam quality and stability, with output power and repetition rate scalable.

SourceMax Born Institute for Nonlinear Optics and Short Pulse Spectroscopy (MBI)·JournalOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 21, 2022

Uncovering the link between epoxy resins and thermal conductivity

A University of Illinois team discovered liquid crystalline epoxy resins with high thermal conductivity, outperforming common polymers by up to 5 times. The breakthrough was achieved by precisely controlling the lengths of ethylene repeat units in the polymer structure.

SourceUniversity of Illinois Grainger College of Engineering·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 4, 2022

Elastic nozzles could create more stable liquid jets

Researchers found that softer nozzle materials produce more stable jets across a wide range of flow rates, enabling users to control the breakup length and hit targets more accurately. This is achieved through the use of passively-deforming nozzles, which can deform as liquids pass through them.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal Special Topics·DateSep 29, 2022

Layering, not liquid: Astronomers explain Mars’ watery reflections

Researchers at Cornell University suggest that bright reflections on Mars' South Pole may be caused by layered composition rather than liquid water. The team's simulations showed that layer thickness and separations have a greater impact on reflection power than material composition.

SourceCornell University·JournalNature Astronomy·DateSep 26, 2022
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Considering how friction is maximized when liquids flow on nanoscales

A new simulation study reveals that molecular clogging affects liquid/solid friction, differing from standard Poiseuille flow observed at the macroscale. The researchers found that strongly confined liquids exhibit unique flow characteristics, including plug and Poiseuille-like flows.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal E·DateAug 17, 2022

Surprising turbulence

Researchers at HZDR simulated liquid metal flow behavior and found that turbulence under certain conditions leads to reduced heat transport. This finding has implications for battery technology and our understanding of the Earth's core.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf·JournalPhysical Review Letters·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 20, 2022
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Experimental evidence of two liquid waters

Researchers have successfully observed reversible transitions between two liquid states of water at low temperatures and high pressures, revealing the existence of two liquid waters. This finding explains anomalous behavior in low-temperature liquid water and has implications for aqueous solutions and biomolecules.

SourceNational Institute for Materials Science, Japan·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 5, 2022

Multi-functional electrostatic droplet tweezer remotely guides droplet motion

A research team from City University of Hong Kong developed a multi-functional electrostatic droplet tweezer that can precisely trap and remotely guide liquid droplets on flat and tilted surfaces, as well as in oil mediums. The technology offers precise and programmable droplet manipulation with high velocity and agile direction steering.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 1, 2022

In a surprise move, honeybee tongue hairs repel water

Researchers discovered that honeybee tongue hairs are hydrophobic, allowing the tongue to bend and reach food in crevices. This unique property enhances durability and flexibility, inspiring design of new materials.

SourceAmerican Chemical Society·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMar 14, 2022

Selecting the right structural materials for fusion reactors

A team of scientists from Tokyo Institute of Technology and Japan have identified CVD-SiC and FeCrAl alloys as compatible with liquid LiPb at high temperatures. The findings provide crucial information for the development of sustainable fusion reactors.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalCorrosion Science·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 3, 2022
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.

Beyond sci-fi: manipulating liquid metals without contact

Scientists have successfully manipulated liquid metals in a non-contact manner by applying electromagnetic induction, allowing for the creation of unique shapes and structures. The discovery opens up new possibilities for advanced manufacturing and dynamic electronic structures.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 7, 2022

Liquid metals, surface patterns, and the romance of the three kingdoms

Scientists discovered oscillatory bifurcation patterns on liquid metal surfaces, mirroring the cyclic power blocs in 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms.' The unusual patterns emerge due to surface instability, with potential applications in plasmonic sensing and high-efficiency electronics.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalNature Synthesis·DateFeb 3, 2022

Controlling how “odd couple” surfaces and liquids interact

Researchers at MIT have developed a method to control the interaction between liquids and solids, allowing for the creation of surfaces with high or low wettability. This breakthrough has potential applications in various industries, including thermal management, protective coatings, and heat pipes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 17, 2022

New technique improves conversion of carbon dioxide into liquid fuels

Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory have developed a new approach to modify the surface of copper catalysts, improving the conversion of carbon dioxide into useful fuels. The technique involves coating the copper with thin films of ionomers, which steer the reaction towards generating carbon-rich products.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalNature Energy·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 17, 2021

No more moving parts: Liquid-metal enabled chemical reactors

Researchers at UNSW have developed liquid metal enabled continuous flow reactors that can produce materials with tuneable system performance and controlled material quality. The systems rely on surface tension to pump fluids, eliminating the need for mechanical parts.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Future Low-Energy Electronics Technologies·JournalMatter·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 12, 2021
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Why teapots always drip

Researchers at TU Wien have successfully described the 'teapot effect' with a theoretical analysis and experiments. The effect occurs when a liquid is poured out of a teapot too slowly, causing it to dribble down the outside of the pot due to an interplay of inertia, viscous, and capillary forces.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalJournal of Fluid Mechanics·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 9, 2021

Titan’s river maps may advise Dragonfly’s sedimental journey

A Cornell-led team has published detailed maps of Titan's liquid methane rivers and tributaries, providing context for the upcoming Dragonfly mission. The research examined Earth-based radar data to understand fluvial characteristics on Titan, shedding light on its sediment transport system.

SourceCornell University·JournalThe Planetary Science Journal·DateOct 18, 2021
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.

Physicists make square droplets and liquid lattices

Researchers at Aalto University created unexpected droplet shapes, including squares and hexagons, by disrupting thermodynamic equilibrium with electric fields. The liquids formed into interconnected lattices and torus shapes, stable for a controlled duration.

SourceAalto University·JournalScience Advances·DateSep 15, 2021

Tea time gets flavor boost from thin film, impure water

Researchers found that thin films in black tea are strengthened by chemically hardened water, making it suitable for packaged tea beverages. Conversely, acidic components like citrus reduce film visibility and add flavor to dried tea mixes.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalPhysics of Fluids·DateSep 7, 2021

A cool chemical separation technology

KAUST researchers review the prospects for IPMs to separate gases and liquids without traditional high-temperature methods, offering energy efficiency and environmental benefits. The team identified promising compounds like cyclodextrin, cucurbiturils, and pillararenes with impressive performance in industrial gas and liquid separations.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalAccounts of Chemical Research·DateMar 9, 2021
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

On the line: Watching nanoparticles get in shape

A research team led by Berkeley Lab has captured high-resolution videos of nanoparticles forming solid-like layers at the interface between oil and water. The findings could help optimize liquid structures for advanced biomedical applications such as drug discovery and targeted cancer treatment.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalScience Advances·DateFeb 25, 2021

Neither liquid nor solid

Researchers at the University of Konstanz have discovered a new state of matter called liquid glass, which exhibits complex behavior. The particles in liquid glass are able to move but not rotate, leading to local clusters that obstruct each other and prevent an ordered state from forming.

SourceUniversity of Konstanz·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJan 5, 2021

Researchers develop new combined process for 3D printing

Chemists at Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg have developed a combined process for 3D printing that integrates liquids directly into materials. This allows for the creation of pharmaceutical products with active medical agents and monitoring systems in plastic materials.

SourceMartin-Luther-Universität Halle-Wittenberg·JournalAdvanced Materials Technologies·DateDec 16, 2020
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station

Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Weather Station offers research-grade local weather data for networked stations, campuses, and community observatories.