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Researchers 3D print tiny multicolor microstructures

The new method enables precision fabrication of optical components and multimaterial structures, eliminating assembling processes. It allows the production of devices with high precision and low cost, and could aid in the miniaturization of optical devices used for medical treatments and diagnoses.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateSep 16, 2020

A plot twist in pharmaceuticals: Single nanoparticles could pave the way for medicines on demand

Physicists at the University of Bath have accurately measured and characterised a single, twisted nanoparticle using a new method, taking them closer to producing medicines on demand. The discovery could lead to mini-labs that can mix substances in a completely new way, producing pharmaceuticals from minute droplets of active ingredients.

SourceUniversity of Bath·JournalNano Letters·DateJul 20, 2020

Moiré engineering applicable in correlated oxides by USTC researchers

Researchers from USTC applied moiré engineering to correlated transition metal oxides (CTMOs), realizing electronic modulations with mesoscale patterns. This breakthrough enables spatially patterned electronic textures on demand in strained epitaxial materials, providing a new route for achieving novel properties.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Physics·DateApr 16, 2020
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Nano-objects of desire: Assembling ordered nanostructures in 3D

Researchers developed a platform to organize nanomaterials of different types into desired 3-D structures using DNA-programmable nanofabrication. The platform can create materials with unique optical, chemical, and other properties at the nanoscale, enabling new applications in fields like display technology and nanomanufacturing.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 13, 2020

Laser pulse creates frequency doubling in amorphous dielectric material

Researchers created excited electrons that briefly doubled the frequency of a beam as it bounced off an amorphous TiO2 slab. This breakthrough widens the range of optical materials useful for micro- and nanoscale optoelectronic applications, enabling new options for creating second-order nonlinear effects.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalPhysical Review Letters·DateJan 6, 2020

Light-based 'tractor beam' assembles materials at the nanoscale

Scientists at the University of Washington create a method to assemble nanoscale semiconductor materials into larger structures using optical tweezers. The technique allows for precise control over material size and shape, with potential applications in quantum computing.

SourceUniversity of Washington·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 4, 2019
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.

Accidental discovery of strong and unbreakable molecular switch

Physicists have accidentally discovered a material that can change shape without breaking, a property that could lead to new applications in fields like artificial muscles and pumps. The material, called 4-DBpFO, changes shape at temperatures around 180 degrees Celsius due to molecular movement.

SourceRadboud University Nijmegen·JournalNature Communications·DateOct 8, 2019

MIT engineers develop 'blackest black' material to date

Researchers at MIT developed a material that is 10 times blacker than anything reported previously, using vertically aligned carbon nanotubes. The new coating absorbs greater than 99.995% of incoming light from any angle, making it the blackest material on record.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateSep 13, 2019
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 unique conducting state under UV-irradiation

Researchers at Ehime University discovered a molecular insulating crystal that reversibly exhibits metal-like conducting behavior under UV-irradiation. This unique property indicates the existence of other photoexcited states of matter with novel properties.

SourceEhime University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry C·DateAug 29, 2019
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.

Researchers 'stretch' the ability of 2D materials to change technology

University of Rochester researchers create a transistor-scale device platform that combines 2D materials with oxide materials, enabling phase changes in response to applied strain. This technology has the potential to transform electronics, optics, computing, and other technologies by controlling previously uncontrollable properties.

SourceUniversity of Rochester·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateJun 10, 2019

Synthesis of helical ladder polymers

Scientists have successfully synthesized helical ladder polymers using a novel electrophilic aromatic substitution method. The resulting molecules exhibit well-defined right-handed helical geometry and can be modified to create nanoscale architectures for various applications.

SourceKanazawa University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMay 20, 2019

NRL develops laser processing method to increase efficiency of optoelectronic devices

Scientists at NRL discovered a new method to passivate defects in next generation optical materials, improving optical quality and enabling miniaturization of light emitting diodes. The technique produces a 100-fold increase in material's optical emission efficiency, paving the way for high-efficiency optoelectronic devices.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateApr 15, 2019
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.

Researchers 3D print metamaterials with novel optical properties

Engineers at Tufts University have created novel optical devices using 3D printed metamaterials with unique microwave or optical properties. The researchers developed a hybrid fabrication approach to create complex geometries and novel functionalities for wavelengths in the microwave range.

SourceTufts University·JournalMicrosystems & Nanoengineering·DateApr 8, 2019

New plastic films deflect or trap heat with zero energy required

Researchers developed new plastic films that deflect or trap heat with zero energy required. The versatile materials can be used to regulate the temperature of buildings and people, and have potential applications in wearable technologies and solar cells.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateApr 2, 2019

New laser methods create dazzling colors on metals

Researchers developed three techniques for laser colorization on metal, creating optical effects that change the color of the treated surface. The techniques can be used to produce colorful artwork on metals with high reproducibility and potential for mass production.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateFeb 19, 2019
Meta Quest 3 512GB

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

New light shed on intensely studied material

Pedot is an organic polymer that has been the subject of much experimental research, but few theoretical studies have been conducted. Researchers at Linköping University have developed a new theory of electronic structure and optical properties of PEDOT, overturning previous research. This new understanding has significant implications...

SourceLinköping University·JournalACS Applied Polymer Materials·DateJan 17, 2019

Emerging trends in advanced nano-materials based electrochemical geno-sensors

The review highlights the development of advanced nano-materials for electrochemical geno-sensors, showcasing their high surface area, biocompatibility, non-toxicity, and charge-sensitive conductance. These materials are used to detect chemical analytes with potential as a next-generation field-deployable analytical tool.

SourceBentham Science Publishers·JournalCurrent Pharmaceutical Design·DateDec 19, 2018
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.

New graphene-based sensor design could improve food safety

A new graphene-based sensor design can detect multiple substances simultaneously, including bacteria and pathogens, offering improved food safety. The sensor's high sensitivity and adjustable properties make it suitable for a wide range of applications.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateDec 4, 2018

Perovskites -- materials of the future in optical communication

Researchers have developed inorganic perovskite-based photodetectors that transfer both text and music, offering a promising material for future rapid optical communication. The new materials have rapid response times, are simple to manufacture, and are extremely stable.

SourceLinköping University·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateOct 15, 2018

Army research lights the way for new materials

Researchers have created designer materials that can be used in various photonic applications, outperforming individual metals like gold and silver. The materials exhibit tuned optical properties, enabling lighter load and enhanced power for Soldier devices.

SourceU.S. Army Research Laboratory·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateOct 9, 2018

FEFU scientists have created a new type of optical ceramic material

Researchers from Far Eastern Federal University have developed a new type of optical ceramic material that outperforms commercial glass and single crystals in physical and mechanical characteristics. The innovative material, YAG:Nd with high neodymium ion concentration, enables faster synthesis and improved control over its functionality.

SourceFar Eastern Federal University·JournalCeramics International·DateJun 7, 2018
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.

Transparent, conductive films promising for developing flexible screens

Researchers demonstrate large-scale fabrication of transparent conductive electrode film based on nanopatterned silver, offering high-performance and long-lasting option for use with flexible screens. The silver-based films could also enable flexible solar cells and improve existing flexible displays.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateJun 6, 2018

NRL improves optical efficiency in nanophotonic devices

Researchers at NRL have developed a method to reduce optical losses in hexagonal boron nitride devices, enabling more efficient lasers and nanoscale optics. This breakthrough has significant applications for ultra-high resolution microscopes, solar energy harvesting, optical computing, and targeted medical therapies.

SourceNaval Research Laboratory·JournalNature Materials·DateJan 4, 2018

Scientists make transparent materials absorb light

Researchers from Russia, Sweden, and the US demonstrate a highly unusual optical effect by creating a transparent material that appears to absorb light. The material, made of a thin layer of a transparent dielectric, accumulates light energy through mathematical properties of the scattering matrix, making it appear perfectly absorbing.

SourceMoscow Institute of Physics and Technology·JournalOptica·DateNov 29, 2017
Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter

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

Two INRS professors elected to OSA's 2018 class of fellows

INRS professors François Légaré and Federico Rosei have been elected OSA Fellows for their groundbreaking work in ultrafast molecular imaging and photonic materials development. The distinction reflects their leadership, publication record, and significant impact on optics and photonics research.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·DateNov 6, 2017

Multitasking monolayers

Researchers at Vanderbilt University have developed a method to produce patterned monolayers that can perform multiple functions, such as catalyzing chemical reactions and sensing molecules. These materials offer a new option for device designers, allowing for the creation of single materials with two functionalities.

SourceVanderbilt University·JournalNature Materials·DateJul 24, 2017

High-tech sensing illuminates concrete stress testing

University of Leeds scientists have discovered a way to measure the strength of modern concrete forms using light-refracting coatings. The birefringent coating displays stress positions, allowing researchers to assess concrete toughness against fractures with high precision.

SourceUniversity of Leeds·JournalScientific Reports·DateJul 19, 2017
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.

Organic-inorganic heterostructures with programmable electronic properties

Scientists develop self-assembled organic molecular lattices with controlled geometry and atomic precision on top of graphene, inducing periodic potentials and unprecedented electrical, magnetic, piezoelectric, and optical functionalities. The approach allows for pre-programming and adjustment of the induced potentials.

SourceTechnische Universität Dresden·JournalNature Communications·DateMar 29, 2017

First random laser made of paper-based ceramics

A team led by Professor Cordt Zollfrank from the Technical University of Munich created the first controllable random laser based on cellulose paper. The laser uses a biogenic structure to scatter light in different directions, but can still be controlled and localized.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·DateNov 10, 2016
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.

New high-temperature device captures a broader solar wavelength spectrum

Researchers from Aalborg University have developed a heat-resistant device made of tungsten and alumina layers that can absorb sunlight across a broad spectrum, enabling more efficient energy conversion. The device can operate at high temperatures and absorb light from UV to near-infrared wavelengths.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateAug 1, 2016

Scientists guide gold nanoparticles to form 'diamond' superlattices

Researchers at Brookhaven National Laboratory have devised a method to trap and arrange nanoparticles in a way that mimics the atomic structure of diamond using DNA scaffolds. The technique, developed by Oleg Gang, employs fabricated DNA as a building material to organize nanoparticles into 3D spatial arrangements.

SourceDOE/Brookhaven National Laboratory·JournalScience·DateFeb 4, 2016

Glass-based ultraviolet absorbers act as 'biological shields'

A special metal oxide glass created by researchers in China can effectively protect living cells and organic dyes from UV radiation damage. The glass uses self-limited nanocrystallization to block damaging ultraviolet rays and has high optical transparency.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateJan 20, 2016
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.

Charge density and optical properties of multicomponent crystals

Researchers design multicomponent materials by combining molecular and structural properties to form a 3D architecture. The spatial distribution of molecules and electronic properties of building blocks significantly impact optical properties. The study demonstrates the feasibility of using active pharmaceutical ingredients as building...

SourceInternational Union of Crystallography·JournalActa Crystallographica Section B·DateAug 7, 2015
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.

$2 million NSF grant supports research into emerging nanomaterials

The project aims to synthesize different atomically thin two-dimensional semiconducting layers, which possess novel properties. The team will investigate the electronic properties of transition metal dichalcogenides in various layer configurations, with potential applications in photovoltaics and photoelectronics.

SourceRensselaer Polytechnic Institute·DateMay 8, 2015

Looking into the light

Jon Schuller, UCSB assistant professor of electrical and computer engineering, is studying how light interacts with complex materials like plastics, which have unique optical properties. The research could lead to the development of new organic photonic devices with enhanced performance and low-cost semiconductors.

SourceUniversity of California - Santa Barbara·DateFeb 26, 2015
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.

'Nano-pixels' promise thin, flexible, high resolution displays

Researchers at Oxford University have developed a new discovery of nano-pixels that can be electrically switched on and off to create high-resolution images. The tiny 'nano-pixels' are just 300 nanometres in size and can be used for applications such as smart glasses, synthetic retinas, and foldable screens.

SourceUniversity of Oxford·JournalNature·DateJul 9, 2014

Bending helps to control nanomaterials

Bending nanomaterials can detach layers from each other, improving control over their electronic and optical properties. This discovery advances research in nanoelectronics and optoelectronics, allowing for more accurate interpretation and tuning of material properties.

SourceAcademy of Finland·DateMay 22, 2014
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.

A better breathalyzer

Researchers developed a novel breathalyzer that uses a reusable, color-changing opal sensor to detect alcohol vapor concentration. The device can provide precise digital readings and is usable multiple times, making it a promising solution for police officers.

SourceOptica·JournalOptical Materials Express·DateOct 8, 2013