Computation and theory news, March 2013

New process makes new use of waste plastic

By combining pyrolysis and hydroformylation, researchers have developed a novel process for turning low-value waste plastic into high-value products.

Just the right pressure can turn graphene into diamond

Theoretical research has revealed that applying pressure to a tiny spot on layers of graphene could help to turn them into 2D diamond, or diamane.

Spangold A shape-memory effect alloy with novel applications

New state of matter is both solid and liquid

Applying high pressures and temperatures to elements like potassium and sodium produces a new, stable state of matter that is both solid and liquid.

Organic materials for rechargeable sodium-ion batteries