Physics

Materials Science

Slim and Sturdy Solar Cells: Nanocrystals offer path to electricity

Researchers have crafted an ultrathin solar cell out of inorganic nanocrystals that have several of the advantages of plastic but avoid some of its shortcomings.

Materials Science

Explosive tempers

Researchers have demonstrated that carbon nanotubes, once ignited, can detonate explosives.

Materials Science

Filling in the blanks

Scientists have added precision to a patterning technique called microcontact printing.

Materials Science

Heart of the Matter: Scanning scope digs deeper into microchips

Researchers have developed a noninvasive imaging technique that lets them see deep inside a microchip.

Materials Science

Carbon nanotubes get nosy

Researchers have demonstrated that individual nanotubes, decorated with DNA, can rapidly detect a number of gases.

Physics

Transistor laser flaunts twin talents

A transistor that doubles as a laser can now operate at room temperature, bringing it to the verge of practical applications.

Physics

Champion of strength is forged in mighty anvil

A new form of carbon created in an anvil and composed of microscopic needles of diamond has emerged as the strongest known material.

Materials Science

Sun and Sand: Dirty silicon could supply solar power

Scientists have proposed a way to control the distribution of contaminants in silicon, potentially opening up the use of cheaper starting materials for making solar cells.

Materials Science

Fog Be Gone: Nanocoating clarifies the view

Scientists have created a nanocoating that prevents fogging and reflection on glass surfaces.

Physics

Warm Ice: Frozen water forms at room temperature

Ultrathin films of ice observed at room temperature and ordinary atmospheric pressure should be more widespread than previously thought, according to new experiments indicating that weaker-than-expected electric fields induce such freezing.

Materials Science

Fine Fabric: New, fast way to make sheets of nanotubes

Scientists have come up with a way to efficiently produce thin, transparent sheets of carbon nanotubes that are several meters long.

Materials Science

Nanotube carpet mimics gecko feet

Carbon nanotubes can outdo the extraordinary sticking power of a gecko's foot hairs.