Add BrightSurf on Google Email

A step closer to fusion energy

Scientists from Swansea University and international partners use x-ray and neutron imaging to assess fusion component robustness, yielding valuable data for development. The research aims to harness nuclear fusion safely and efficiently, overcoming temperature challenges in extreme environments.

SourceSwansea University·JournalFusion Engineering and Design·DateDec 4, 2018

Half moons and pinch points: Same physics, different energy

Researchers at OIST Graduate University have developed a unified theory explaining the formation of pinch points and half moons in frustrated magnets. The theory reveals that these patterns arise from the same underlying physics, with pinch points representing equilibrium and half moons signifying violation of local conservation laws.

How to produce fluorescent nanoparticles for medical applications in a nuclear reactor

Scientists developed a new method to produce nanodiamonds and silicon carbide with defined defects, utilizing neutron irradiation in nuclear reactors. This approach enables the efficient production of rare nanomaterials for medical applications, including cancer diagnostics.

Story tips from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, November 2018

The study found that coordinated CAVs can stabilize traffic flow, reduce fuel use by more than 40 percent, and improve travel time. The team's results also explored the potential of CAVs to indirectly influence human-driven cars' performance. Additionally, researchers at ORNL studied neutron-rich nuclei, improving understanding of nucl...

SourceDOE/Oak Ridge National Laboratory·JournalIEEE Transactions on Intelligent Vehicles·DateNov 1, 2018

The cosmological lithium problem

Researchers used the n_TOF facility to explore a neutron channel that could increase the destruction rate of Be-7 and resolve the Cosmological Lithium Problem. However, the results indicate that neutron channels alone are not enough to resolve the issue, leaving scientists with additional challenges to address.

SourceUniversity of Seville·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateOct 8, 2018

No sign of symmetrons

Researchers at TU Wien use the PF2 ultra-cold neutron source to test the existence of symmetrons, a theory that could explain dark matter. The experiment excludes a broad range of parameter values, but the team is cautious and seeks further measurements or discoveries.

SourceVienna University of Technology·JournalNature Physics·DateJul 24, 2018

Unresolved puzzles in exotic nuclei

Unstable atomic nuclei like Helium-8 and Lithium-8 can be investigated through beta decay and detection of decay products. The author discusses available experimental data and models applied to 'exotic' nuclei, revealing unresolved puzzles in the connection between microscopic structure and observable quantities.

SourceSpringer·JournalThe European Physical Journal A·DateMar 27, 2018

Movable silicon 'lenses' enable neutrons to see new range of details inside objects

Researchers at NIST and NIH developed a new method that uses movable silicon gratings to focus neutron beams, allowing for the examination of objects at unprecedented scales. This breakthrough could complement existing scanning techniques, enabling scientists to probe the interiors of materials without damaging them.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateMar 12, 2018

For energy experts, new method is a gas

Researchers have created a novel non-invasive method to quantify untapped natural gas reservoirs by analyzing the compositional distribution on porous surfaces inside shale rocks. This method provides both average and deviation values of material properties, aiding decision-making in the industry.

SourceUniversity of Delaware·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 26, 2018