Computation and theory news

Crumpled graphene can detect DNA without amplification

Researchers have found that crumpling graphene makes it more than 10,000 times more sensitive to DNA by creating electrical ‘hotspots’.

Composite metal foam passes pool fire test

Composite metal foams have passed so-called ‘simulated pool fire testing’, which indicates they could be used for transporting hazardous materials.

Announcing the launch of Best Paper Prizes on Elseviers Leading Polymer Journals

Machine learning with synthetic data improves indentation tests

Utilizing 'hybrid data', a new analytical technique can improve the estimation of mechanical properties of metallic materials from indention tests.

New technique captures lithium ions on the move

Using an electrochemical cell inside a transmission electron microscope, scientists have captured in real time how lithium ions move in lithium titanate.

Peaks and valleys prevent frost formation on any surface

Researchers have shown that modifying any surface with millimeter tall peaks and valleys can reduce frost formation on that surface by 60%.

New model reveals graphene’s twisted state

A novel analytical model can identify how twisted graphene sheets behave and determine their stability at different sizes and temperatures.

Five degrees of freedom

Five degrees of freedom in polycrystalline materials

Scientists take steps to grow large-scale sheets of 2D insulator

Using copper as a substrate, scientists have successfully grown atom-thick sheets of hexagonal boron nitride as two-inch diameter crystals.

Professor’s work gave her a window into gender inequity, so she took action

Prof. Barbara Rothen-Rutishauser is using an Agents of Change grant to empower women in academia

Scientists predict brand new type of superconductor

Scientists believe there may be a way to make a single material that can conduct both electricity and energy with 100% efficiency.

New 3D imaging technique spots wave and tornadoes in magnets

Scientists have developed a 3D imaging technique for observing complex behaviours in magnets, including fast-moving waves and 'tornadoes'.

Alternating peptides produce two-layered nanofibers

Researchers have engineered two-layered nanofibers consisting of an ordered row of alternating peptides and determined how they self-assemble.

Novel electric solid propellent changes in the heat

Researchers have developed a computer model that can predict the thermochemistry of a new high-performance electric solid propellant.

Researchers discover why topological insulators can be surprisingly fragile

Researchers have found why some topological materials are 'fragile', unable to conduct current on their surface, and how to restore their conductivity.

Tomography and papyrus algorithm unravel secrets of wound electrodes

Using two forms of tomography and an algorithm for unrolling papyrus scrolls, researchers have investigated the surfaces of cylindrical electrodes.

Hydrogen atoms squash up surprisingly close in metal hydride

A new analysis of neutron scattering data has revealed that the hydrogen atoms in a metal hydride are much more tightly spaced than expected.

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