Characterization news

Scientists use laser to forge 3D pyramid from graphene

Researchers have shown how laser light can be used to forge graphene into 3D objects such as a pyramid.

Bandgap of novel four-component alloy can span visible spectrum

Scientists have discovered a two-dimensional alloy with an optical bandgap that can be tuned by the temperature used to grow the alloy.

Surface texture keeps katydids on the hop

Frictional, structural, and mechanical studies of hind leg femur-tibia joint of katydids reveals novel antifriction and antiwear properties.

Introducing Materials Science Research at Heliyon

Pull don’t push for silk production

A new study shows that animals spin silk by pulling rather than pushing it out of their bodies, which could improve the processing of synthetic materials.

Nickel-based alloys can reduce salt corrosion in solar power plants

New research shows the potential of using nickel-based coatings to mitigate corrosion by molten salts in concentrating solar power plants.

Scientists unwrap the beneficial role of oxidation in hydrogen storage

A thin layer of oxidation on graphene-wrapped magnesium nanoparticles can enhance rather than hinder their hydrogen storage.

Magnetic ordering in bismuth ferrite comes with a twist

Using a novel quantum sensor, physicists have successfully imaged spiral magnetic ordering in a multiferroic material.

Disordered glass can still have ordered optical properties

Scientists have discovered that stable glasses can possess optical properties such as birefringence that are usually only found in ordered materials.

Thermal properties can affect surface stickiness

Researchers have discovered that the thermal properties of a surface influence whether droplets stick to them or bounce off.

Add a sprinkling of copper atoms for a hydrogen-rich syngas

By sprinkling copper atoms atop a gold surface, scientists have developed a novel material for creating synthesis gas from carbon dioxide and water.

Researchers uncover new properties in 2D semiconductor

Researchers have uncovered the role of oxygen in 2D molybdenum disulfide and developed a novel technique for tuning its optical band gaps.

One study uncovers novel properties in two 2D materials

A single study has found that graphene displays superlubricity and that hexagonal boron nitride is as strong as diamond but lighter and more flexible.

‘Dope’ finding could produce faster semiconductors

Researchers have found another reason why semiconductors lose their ability to carry a charge as they become more densely ‘doped’.

Peruvian innovator is recipient of Materials Today Embracing Challenge award

Fernando Torres recipient of 2017 Embracing Challenge award

Introducing the Materials Today book series

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Using open source hardware in scientific experiments – a collaborative initiative between Materials Characterization and HardwareX

Materials Characterization and HardwareX are teaming up to showcase research that is undertaken using hardware designed by scientists.

‘Exciton’ new way to measure the band gap of 2D materials

A novel way to measure the band gap of the 2D material molybdenum disulfide has revealed the link between its electronic and optical properties.