Characterization news, March 2019

Spiral staircase leads to best topological conductor ever

Researchers have discovered the strongest topological conductor yet, in the form of thin crystal samples with a spiral-staircase structure.

New test pinpoints catalysts’ activity

fast-screening of potential non-noble metal two-dimensional catalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction

Scientists discover why nickel-rich materials feel degraded in lithium-ion batteries

Scientists have identified the causes of degradation in a nickel-rich layered cathode material in lithium-ion batteries, as well as possible remedies.

Growing crystal islands communicate with previous layers

Scientists have discovered the islands that form a new layer in a crystalline material tend to form in a pattern similar to the preceding layer.

Diffusion in metallic glass multilayer films

Novel polymer runs hot and cold over light-induced phase change

A novel type of polymer can alter its thermal conductivity by switching between a crystalline state and a liquid state in response to light.

New X-ray technique reveals motion of atoms in 2D material

Scientists have used a new technique called ultrafast surface X-ray scattering to visualize the motion of atoms in a 2D material.

Lobster inspires soft but strong body armor

underbelly of lobsters could hold clue to developing a tough, strong and flexible material for body armor and other applications

Double-helix structure helps polymer stay strong

Researchers have discovered that a high-strength polymer called PBDT has a rare double-helix structure.

Graphene and gold shine light on protein-based diseases

By combining graphene with nano-ribbons of gold, researchers have developed an ultrasensitive biosensor for detecting disease-causing proteins.

‘Tuning knob’ turns 2D semiconductors into quantum materials

The twist angle between layers of 2D semiconductors provides a ‘tuning knob’ to turn them into an exotic quantum material.

New tungsten-based alloy can withstand radiation without fracturing

A new nanocrystalline tungsten-tantalum-vanadium-chromium alloy can withstand unprecedented amounts of radiation without fracturing.

Supercomputer helps screen candidate organic dyes for solar cell position

By combining supercomputing with experimental methods, researchers have been able to identify promising materials for dye-sensitized solar cells

Right match can double storage capacity of 2D electrodes

The energy storage capacity of electrodes made from the 2D material MXene can be doubled by adding an appropriate solvent to the electrolyte.