Materials Science

Materials Science

Whisking Whiskers: Nanobrushes sweep up

Researchers have made microscopic brushes with carbon nanotube bristles.

Materials Science

Micropower Heats Up: Propane fuel cell packs a lot of punch

Portable electronic devices such as laptops and MP3 players could soon run on miniature fuel cells that consume propane.

Materials Science

Tissue Tether: Improved conducting plastic could boost nerve-regeneration success

Biomedical engineers aim to repair damaged nerves with a chemically modified conducting polymer that stimulates the growth of nerve cells.

Materials Science

Something to Chew On

Researchers are closer than ever to making synthetic enamel to improve dental implants and perhaps to grow a whole tooth from scratch.

Materials Science

Shape shifter

Scientists have created a polymer that, after being deformed, will revert to its original shape when exposed to ultraviolet light.

Materials Science

Clever Coating: New polymer may prolong life of medical implants

Coating medical implants such as glucose sensors and coronary stents with copper-doped polymers could dramatically extend the devices' functioning.

Materials Science

Nanostructures mimic Inuit stone sculptures

Chemists have created nanoscale versions Inuit rock sculptures, an advance that could facilitate the development of next-generation sensors and electronic devices.

Materials Science

Slick Surfaces: Pressure builds to make better motor oils

Motor oil's protection against the wear and tear of steel engine parts takes effect only at high pressures.

Materials Science

Venetian Grinds

Venetian Renaissance artists, renowned for their vibrant colors, mixed powdered glass with their paints in an attempt to expand their palettes and create unique optical effects.

Materials Science

Tiles stack for shell strength in abalone

In abalone shells, microscopic tiles of calcium carbonate stack on top of each other in a highly ordered arrangement to create a superstrong material.

Materials Science

Petrified wood: Quick and easy

Materials scientists have turned wood into stone in a matter of days, mimicking a natural process that takes millions of years.

Materials Science

Infrared Vision: New material may enhance plastic solar cells

The vision of flexible, low-cost, lightweight plastic solar cells has moved one step closer to reality with the creation of a material that can harness infrared light.