Metals and alloys news, August 2015

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Unusual discovery in thin film magnetism

Pure compound succumbs to magnetoresistance under pressure

Using high-pressure conditions, scientists have induced colossal magnetoresistance in a pure sample of lanthanum manganite.

Copper clusters convert carbon dioxide directly into fuel

Scientists have developed a new energy-efficient catalyst for converting carbon dioxide directly into the liquid fuel methanol.

New industry/university center for atomically thin coatings

The study and development of atomically thin coatings will be the focus of a new, one-of-a-kind university/industry center.

Nanoscale platinum ‘grass’ makes signals clearer

A lawn-like coating of tiny grass-like platinum wires could improve electronic devices used to communicate with the brain.

Sandcastles inspire new nanoparticle binding technique

Magnetic nanoparticles encased in oily liquid shells spontaneously form chains on exposure to a magnetic field.

Liquid-like magnetic state leads to super-conductivity

An iron-telluride material can develop superconductivity with no long-range electronic or magnetic order when ‘doped’ with sulfur.

Bulk metallic glass could keep hearts beating

An unusual amorphous metal alloy known as a bulk metallic glass could increase the longevity of stents, which are used to to open up blocked arteries.

‘Yolks’ and ‘shells’ improve rechargeable batteries

Nanoparticles with a solid shell and a ‘yolk’ inside that can change size make a good anode for rechargeable batteries.

2015 Materials Today Cover Competition

Molecular trick alters rules of attraction for non-magnetic metals

Scientists have demonstrated for the first time how to generate magnetism in metals that aren’t naturally magnetic.

Novel optoelectronic modulator that is smaller, faster, and cheaper

Researchers at ETH Zurich have now developed a modulator that is a hundred times smaller than conventional models.

Biomedical implants get into the groove

Patterning metallic biomedical dental and hip implants with tiny grooves could improve biocompatibility with the body and reduce adverse reactions.

Top 10 Materials News from June 2015