Characterization news, September 2010

Zirconium oxide thin films promise next-generation memory

thin films of zirconium oxide could enable a next generation of low-voltage and -power nonvolatile memory and other nanoscale devices

Introducing C phase in additively manufactured Ti-6Al-4V: A new oxygen-stabilized face-centred cubic solid solution with improved mechanical properties

New quasiparticle waves heat through ferroelectric materials

Researchers have discovered a novel quasiparticle that allows the thermal conductivity of ferroelectric materials to be altered by an electrical stimulus.

Superconductivity switch for ‘magic-angle’ graphene

Researchers have found a way to switch the superconductivity in magic-angle graphene on and off with short electric pulses.

Cracking the short-circuit mystery in lithium-metal batteries

Researchers have discovered that nanoscale defects and mechanical stress can cause the solid electrolytes in lithium-metal batteries to fail.