Characterization news

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

Coming soon, to a bookshelf near you.

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.

Rare state of matter found in semiconducting cerium crystal

Scientists have detected a rare state of matter known as ‘electronic nematic’, in which electrons in a superconducting crystal organize collectively.

Cracks unstable at high speeds

Scientists have discovered the mechanism that causes cracks to behave strangely when they spread very rapidly in brittle materials.

Supercomputer produces solid findings on alloy microstructure

Computational modelling with a supercomputer has revealed how different solidification speeds alter the microstructure of a novel alloy.

Scientists surprised to find quasicrystals in silica nanoparticles

Using electron microscopy, scientists have discovered that silica nanoparticles form quasicrystals as they grow and evolve.

Resolving the material confusion in lithium-air batteries

Detailed tests have helped to reveal why one promising material added to the electrolyte of lithium-air batteries doesn't work as well as expected.

Co-special Issue-Open Hardware in Research

Why a joint offering between Microelectronic Engineering and HardwareX?

Hybrid materials light up with new properties

Scientists have developed various hybrid, photoactive materials that respond in different ways when exposed to excitation light.

Researchers unlock the secrets of dragonfly wings

Understanding the design principles of dragonfly wings could help improve the design of artificial wings on micro-air vehicles.

Collective rattling blocks heat transfer in crystalline semiconductor

A newly discovered collective rattling effect in a crystalline semiconductor blocks most heat transfer while preserving high electrical conductivity.

Crystal gels form like ice crystals in clouds

For the first time, scientists have observed the formation of a crystal gel with particle-level resolution.

Current Opinion in Biomedical Engineering publishes 1st volume

Scientists watch as nanocrystals quickly assemble into superlattices

Scientists have made the first observation of nanocrystals rapidly forming superlattices while they are themselves still growing.