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Stretch and relax! -- Losing 1 electron switches magnetism on in dichromium

Scientists at Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin have discovered a surprising high-spin ground state in the cationic cousin of dichromium, Cr2+, using x-ray magnetic circular dichroism. The team found complete localization of all ten valence electrons and maximum spin coupling, transforming an antiferromagnet into ferromagnetic.

A new generation of storage -- ring

The MAX IV facility in Lund, Sweden is developing a storage-ring synchrotron system that will enable new experiments requiring high source brightness and transverse coherence. The system's design challenges include compact magnets and low-vacuum chambers, which require innovative solutions to overcome technical issues.

SourceInternational Union of Crystallography·JournalJournal of Synchrotron Radiation·DateOct 31, 2014

Rapid etching X-rayed

Researchers at Kiel University developed a method to track atomic-scale changes during etching and coating, revealing uniform metal removal. The technique enabled detection of reactions within milliseconds, providing insights into industrially employed processes.

SourceKiel University·JournalJournal of the American Chemical Society·DateMar 23, 2011

X-rays reveal chemical link between birds and dinosaurs

A team of paleontologists, geochemists, and physicists used X-ray technology to analyze the Thermopolis Archaeopteryx fossil, revealing half a dozen chemical elements that were part of the living animal itself. The study confirms that feathers in the fossil are actual fossilized feathers containing phosphorus and sulfur.

SourceDOE/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMay 10, 2010

'Hidden' Van Gogh painting revealed

A new technique has successfully revealed a hidden portrait of a woman behind Vincent van Gogh's 'Patch of Grass'. The method, using synchrotron radiation induced X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, allowed researchers to reconstruct the concealed painting in unparalleled detail.

SourceDelft University of Technology·JournalAnalytical Chemistry·DateJul 30, 2008

Comparing apples and pears

Researchers at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility have visualized air pathways in apples and pears, showing that these microscopically small structures play a crucial role in determining fruit health. The study reveals that pears are more susceptible to decay due to their smaller oxygen supply channels.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalPLANT PHYSIOLOGY·DateJul 10, 2008

Controlled corrosion

Scientists study Cu3Au alloy's corrosion behavior, observing the formation of a protective passivation layer that protects against further corrosion. Controlled corrosion allows for nanometric-scale material structuring, potentially leading to new catalysts with high surface areas.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalNature·DateFeb 10, 2006

Preserving a 460 year old wreck

A team of international researchers analyzed the sulphur and iron composition in the wooden timbers of the Mary Rose, an English warship wrecked in 1545. They found high concentrations of organo-sulphur compounds in the lignin-rich areas between the cells, which may have helped preserve the ship while it was submerged in seawater.

SourceEuropean Synchrotron Radiation Facility·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateSep 27, 2005