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Composing nanomaterials – with AI and chemistry

LMU researchers created a tool that combines automated chemical synthesis, high-throughput characterization, and data-driven modeling to control nanocrystal growth. The Synthesizer platform enables precise predictions of material properties, such as color, brightness, or stability, for applications like LEDs, solar cells, and sensors.

SourceLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateJan 15, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

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

Here we glow: New organic liquid provides efficient phosphorescence

Researchers at The University of Osaka have created an eco-friendly organic liquid that phosphoresces at room temperature, overcoming issues with molecular aggregation and stability. This discovery offers potential applications in electronic displays, particularly for wearable devices.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalChemical Science·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 3, 2025
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.

New co-assembly strategy unlocks robust circularly polarized luminescence across the color spectrum

Researchers developed a supramolecular co-assembly platform producing chiral soft materials with strong, stable full-colour circularly polarised luminescence across the visible spectrum. The resulting structures are tunable, scalable and retain their properties for over 100 days at room temperature.

SourceNational University of Singapore College of Design and Engineering·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 14, 2025

Terbium’s green glow: A simple sensor for liver cancer

A unique luminescent probe using terbium has been developed to detect β-glucuronidase, an enzyme that can aid in liver cancer diagnosis. The sensor's sensitivity and accuracy are comparable to conventional methods but at a lower cost, making it suitable for resource-limited settings.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalChemistry·DateJun 30, 2025
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Breakthrough in solar thermoelectric generation: organic radical photothermal cocrystals lead the way

Researchers have developed a new material, coronene-Br2 NDA cocrystal, which converts solar heat into electricity with an exceptional photothermal conversion efficiency of 67.2% under 808 nm irradiation. The material is integrated into a thermoelectric generator to achieve high-performance solar-thermoelectric energy harvesting.

SourceScience China Press·JournalNational Science Review·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 21, 2025

Unlocking the potential of the heavy atom effect in metal clusters

Scientists at Tohoku University have successfully improved the phosphorescence efficiency of silver clusters by incorporating a heavy atom effect, which enhances intersystem crossing and leads to increased phosphorescence. This discovery provides a new design strategy for next-generation luminescent materials and triplet sensitizers.

SourceTohoku University·JournalSmall·DateMar 26, 2025

Unraveling the origin of extremely bright quantum emitters

A multi-institutional research team from Osaka University has discovered the origin of extremely bright color centers at an oxide/semiconductor interface. The study reveals a correlation between the luminescence of color centers and the density of electron traps, suggesting a specific carbon-related defect as the most promising candidate.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAPL Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 27, 2025

Same plant, different tactic: Habitat determines response to climate

Research found that plants adapted to colder temperatures have a higher rate of photoinhibition repair when exposed to cold conditions. This adaptation allows them to survive in colder regions. The study used Arabidopsis thaliana ecotypes from around the world to demonstrate this phenomenon.

SourceOsaka Metropolitan University·JournalPlant Cell & Environment·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 26, 2024
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.

Leaf-like solar concentrators promise major boost in solar efficiency

Researchers propose a leaf-inspired luminescent solar concentrator (LSC) design to overcome scalability limitations. The innovative setup enhances photon collection and transfer, improving efficiency and reducing self-absorption issues.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Photonics for Energy·DateAug 15, 2024

Stacked up against the rest

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed a new method to reduce optical interference and measure the quantum coherence time of moiré excitons, which are electron-hole pairs confined in moiré interference fringes. This breakthrough enables the realization of quantum functionality in next-generation nano-semiconductors.

SourceKyoto University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 1, 2024

Keeping the lights on

A study published in Applied Physics Letters reveals that decreasing carbon concentration can increase the amount of light emitted from GaN crystals. The researchers found a threshold concentration above which carbon atoms become a significant factor in dissipating energy, leading to improved internal quantum efficiency.

SourceOsaka University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·TypeObservational study·DateJun 10, 2024

Energy scientists unravel the mystery of gold’s glow

Researchers at EPFL have developed a comprehensive model of the quantum-mechanical effects behind photoluminescence in thin gold films, which could drive the development of solar fuels and batteries. The study reveals unexpected quantum effects emerging in films as thin as 40 nanometers.

SourceEcole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne·JournalLight Science & Applications·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 19, 2024
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.

Solvent sieve method sets new record for perovskite light-emitting diodes

Researchers developed highly efficient and stable perovskite light-emitting diodes using a solvent sieve method, achieving an operating lifetime of over 5.7 years and a record high external quantum efficiency of 29.5%. The study also demonstrated excellent stability in ambient air conditions.

SourceChinese Academy of Sciences Headquarters·JournalNature Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 5, 2024

A faster, more efficient imaging system for nanoparticles

A new technique developed at INRS pushes back some of the limits of infrared imaging for rare-earth doped nanoparticles. The SWIR-PLIMASC system enables high-sensitivity and high-speed imaging, allowing for accurate information to be derived from photoluminescence lifetimes.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalAdvanced Science·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 30, 2024

The extinction of the giant ape: a long-standing mystery solved

New evidence reveals that giant ape species 'Gigantopithcus blacki' went extinct between 295,000 and 215,000 years ago due to its inability to adapt to changing climates and food preferences. The study used multiple dating techniques and environmental analysis to confirm the extinction timeline.

SourceMacquarie University·JournalNature·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 10, 2024

Absolute vs. relative efficiency: How efficient are blue LEDs, actually?

Researchers at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign found that the absolute internal quantum efficiency (IQE) of InGaN-based blue LEDs can be as low as 27.5%, drastically lower than the standard assumption. The study's results suggest a new approach to measuring IQE, providing a more accurate picture of LED performance.

SourceBeckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateMay 26, 2023
GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter

GQ GMC-500Plus Geiger Counter logs beta, gamma, and X-ray levels for environmental monitoring, training labs, and safety demonstrations.

Room-temperature, solid-state synthesis of high-quality Cs3Cu2I5 thin films

Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have successfully synthesized high-quality Cs3Cu2I5 thin films using a novel solid-state synthesis method. The team discovered that depositing CuI and CsI layers in specific ratios results in distinct local structures containing point defects, leading to highly efficient emissions.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateMay 19, 2023

New study reveals design clues for silver-based superatomic molecules

Researchers from Japan have synthesized two di-superatomic molecules composed of Ag and evaluated the factors involved in their formation. The study found that a twist between the two icosahedral structures stabilizes the nanocluster by shortening the distance between them. Additionally, the presence of Pd and Pt central atoms was foun...

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalCommunications Chemistry·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 6, 2023

Organic X-ray excitement for innovative imaging

KAUST researchers have designed and built novel organic scintillator materials for detecting X-rays at low doses, overcoming stability issues with existing ceramic or perovskite materials. The new approach uses heavy atoms to improve X-ray absorption capability and exciton utilization efficiency.

SourceKing Abdullah University of Science & Technology (KAUST)·JournalNature Photonics·DateJan 8, 2023
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.

Into the blue: Progress in perovskite LEDs for deep-blue light

Scientists have created a novel approach to produce phase-pure quasi-2D Ruddlesden–Popper perovskites, enabling highly efficient and spectrally stable deep-blue-emissive perovskite LEDs. The rapid crystallization method yields high-performance devices with an emission wavelength centered at 437 nm.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateJan 4, 2023

Nanoantennas directing a bright future

Researchers at Kyoto University have developed nanoantennas that significantly increase the efficiency and photoluminescence of white LEDs by replacing aluminum with titanium dioxide. This breakthrough enables the creation of intensely bright yet energy-saving solid-state lighting solutions.

SourceKyoto University·JournalJournal of Materials Chemistry C·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 21, 2022

Light-driven molecular motors light up

Scientists have successfully created two types of light-driven molecular motors that can both rotate and fluoresce in the same molecule. This achievement demonstrates that these motors can be designed to control various functions using light energy, paving the way for potential applications in biomedical imaging and cellular processes.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalScience Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 4, 2022
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

The structure of the smallest semiconductor was elucidated

Researchers at IBS and Xiamen University reported the synthesis of Cd14Se13 cluster, the smallest nanocluster synthesized as of today. The cluster has a core-cage arrangement with an adamantane-like CdSe structure, enabling the growth of nanocrystals with unusual structures.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalChem·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 25, 2022

Photoluminescence, a simple and ubiquitous technique, is far more capable than one might have thought

Researchers develop an all-optical approach using photoluminescence to analyze radiative and nonradiative recombination processes in semiconductors. By combining Raman spectroscopy with PL data, they can extract quantitative information on carrier recombination dynamics, including defect density and capture cross-sections.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateMay 17, 2022

Developing inorganic lead-free perovskite for broadband emission

Scientists have successfully developed lead-free bismuth halide perovskites with broadband emission, overcoming toxicity and instability issues of traditional lead-based materials. The new material exhibits high efficiency and stability, paving the way for potential applications in artificial lighting and displays.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 28, 2022

Researchers synthesize carbon nanosolenoid with Riemann surfaces

The researchers successfully synthesized π-extended nanographene carbon nanosolenoid (CNS) material with continuous spiral graphene planes, matching the structure of Riemann surface. CNS exhibited special photoluminescence and magnetic properties, including red-shifted emission band and large thermal hysteresis.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Communications·DateApr 6, 2022

Special issue of energy material advances on research state of nanocrystals

This special issue of Energy Material Advances highlights recent progress in synthesizing and tuning perovskite nanocrystals and other emerging nanocrystal materials. Research focuses on fundamental understanding of doping, synthesis, and spectroscopy, as well as applications in solar cells and light-emitting diodes.

SourceBeijing Institute of Technology Press Co., Ltd·JournalEnergy Material Advances·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 30, 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.

Confined-domain crosslink-enhanced emission effect in carbonized polymer dots

A team of scientists has reported new research progress on the photoluminescence (PL) mechanism of carbonized polymer dots (CPDs), uncovering the essential roles of spatial effects within confined domains. The study reveals tunable PL performance through varying degrees of steric hindrance.

SourceLight Publishing Center, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics And Physics, CAS·JournalLight Science & Applications·DateMar 15, 2022

Paper discs that can pick up hydrogen peroxide

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) has developed a paper-based sensor that can detect tiny volumes of hydrogen peroxide using UV light. The intensity of the light emitted is directly proportional to the concentration of hydrogen peroxide, making it possible to visualize the emission with the naked eye.

SourceIndian Institute of Science (IISc)·JournalACS Sensors·DateMar 9, 2022

An innovative imaging technique for dynamic optical nanothermometry

A new imaging technique called single-shot photoluminescence lifetime imaging thermometry (SPLIT) measures temperature in 2D, without contact, and in real-time. This technology could improve photothermal therapy and help detect skin cancers.

SourceInstitut national de la recherche scientifique - INRS·JournalNature Communications·DateNov 9, 2021

Why the world needs a better LED light bulb

Researchers have developed a new light-emitting material that doubles the intensity of existing LEDs while also being more energy-efficient. The material, cerium-doped zinc oxide, has the potential to be used in commercial LED lighting applications and could make lighting more affordable for households and businesses worldwide.

SourceUniversity of Johannesburg·JournalJournal of Luminescence·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 8, 2021

How flawed diamonds 'lead' to flawless quantum networks

Researchers from Tokyo Institute of Technology demonstrate that lead-vacancy centers in diamond exhibit dihedral symmetry and large ground state splitting, essential properties for quantum networks. The high-pressure high-temperature treatment recovers damaged crystal lattice, leading to long spin coherence time at higher temperatures.

SourceTokyo Institute of Technology·JournalACS Photonics·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 1, 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.

New sensor detects valuable rare earth element terbium from non-traditional sources

Researchers at Penn State developed a luminescent sensor that can detect and quantify low concentrations of terbium in complex acidic samples. The sensor uses a protein called lanmodulin, which is selectively binding to rare earth elements, and has the potential to help develop a domestic supply of these metals.

SourcePenn State·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 25, 2021

Perovskite solar cells: Interfacial loss mechanisms revealed

Researchers at HZB developed a method to quantify charge extraction at buried interfaces in perovskite solar cells. Time-resolved surface photovoltage technique facilitates design of ideal charge-selective contacts and improves efficiency.

SourceHelmholtz-Zentrum Berlin für Materialien und Energie·JournalJoule·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 20, 2021

One-dimensional red phosphorous glows in unexpected ways

Researchers at Aalto University have discovered that fibrous red phosphorous, when electrons are confined in its one-dimensional sub-units, shows large optical responses. The material demonstrates giant anisotropic linear and non-linear optical responses, as well as emission intensity.

SourceAalto University·JournalNature Communications·DateAug 12, 2021
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.

Synthesis of new red phosphors with a smart material as a host material

Researchers at Toyohashi University of Technology synthesized new Mn4+-activated red phosphors with high photoluminescence intensity, revealing the relationship between crystal structure and sintering temperature. The findings have important implications for the development of high-color-rendering-index materials for LED applications.

SourceToyohashi University of Technology (TUT)·JournalMaterials Research Bulletin·DateJul 20, 2021

Regulating off-centering distortion maximizes photoluminescence in halide perovskites

Researchers at HPSTAR have discovered a universal relationship between regulating off-centering distortion and maximizing photoluminescence in halide perovskites. By applying high pressure, they achieved optimal PL performance, ten-fold enhancement, and new paths to high-performance optoelectronic materials.

SourceCenter for High Pressure Science & Technology Advanced Research·JournalNational Science Review·DateDec 21, 2020

Scientists model photoluminescence kinetics in semiconductor nanoplatelets for better optoelectroni

Researchers from Skoltech and colleagues developed two models explaining the light-emitting behavior of semiconductor nanoplatelets, which are promising building blocks for optoelectronics. The models reveal trapping of excitons at surface defects and its interplay with diffusion as key reasons for complex kinetics.

SourceSkolkovo Institute of Science and Technology (Skoltech)·JournalPhysical Chemistry Chemical Physics·DateDec 9, 2020
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.

A new method to measure optical absorption in semiconductor crystals

The study confirms the accuracy of ODPL measurements and reveals the possibility of measuring optical absorption in crystals using this method. Researchers found that the origin of the two-peak structure in ODPL spectra is due to the Urbach-Martienssen absorption tail observed in many semiconductor crystals.

SourceTohoku University·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateOct 29, 2020

Reaching 90% PL quantum yield in 1D metal halide by pressure-suppressed nonradiative loss

Researchers discovered a method to enhance the photoluminescent quantum yield (PLQY) of 1D metal halide C4N2H14PbB4 by suppressing non-radiative loss under high pressure. The findings reveal that pressure-tuned STE binding energy and confined motion of organic cations contribute to the PL enhancement.

SourceCenter for High Pressure Science & Technology Advanced Research·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateSep 16, 2020
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.

Optical imaging enters sub-nanometer era

Researchers at USTC achieved sub-molecular resolution in single-molecule Raman spectroscopy imaging and photoluminescence imaging. They demonstrated the effects of local plasmon-exciton interaction on fluorescence intensity, peak position and peak width on the sub-nanometer scale.

SourceUniversity of Science and Technology of China·JournalNature Photonics·DateAug 27, 2020

Silver sawtooth creates valley-coherent light for nanophotonics

Scientists have created valley-coherent photoluminescence in tungsten disulfide flakes using a silver sawtooth nanoslit array. The results achieve coherent and polarized light at room temperature, paving the way for integrated nanophotonics.

SourceUniversity of Groningen·JournalNature Communications·DateFeb 7, 2020
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.

Probing semiconductor crystals with a sphere of light

Tohoku University researchers have developed a technique that improves on current photoluminescence spectroscopy techniques, allowing for the measurement of larger semiconducting crystals. The new approach uses a hollow sphere to minimize photon loss and test internal quantum efficiency, a key property of semiconductors.

SourceTohoku University·JournalApplied Physics Express·DateJun 6, 2019

Light from an exotic crystal semiconductor could lead to better solar cells

Researchers at Rutgers University have developed a new way to control the light emitted by hybrid crystal semiconductors, which could lead to more efficient solar cells and other electronic devices. By adjusting voltage applied to an electrode, they can increase the intensity of light emitted up to 100 times.

SourceRutgers University·JournalMaterials Today·DateMar 6, 2019

Plasmonic pioneers fire away in fight over light

Researchers at Rice University argue that photoluminescence, not Raman scattering, is responsible for the remarkable light-emitting properties of metal nanoparticles. This breakthrough could lead to improvements in solar-cell efficiency and the development of new biosensors.

SourceRice University·JournalNano Letters·DateJan 28, 2019
Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only)

Sony Alpha a7 IV (Body Only) delivers reliable low-light performance and rugged build for astrophotography, lab documentation, and field expeditions.

Assessing quantum dot photoemissions

Researchers at Kumamoto University developed a technique to assess quantum dot photoluminescence emission mechanisms using polyoxometalates. The study revealed previously unseen peak emissions at 410 nm due to bulk defects in the quantum dots.

SourceKumamoto University·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateFeb 28, 2018