Electronic properties news, April 2021

Photon avalanche in nanoparticles opens way to bioimaging

photon avalanching in single nanoparticles doped with lanthanide ions observed for the first time

Strain could switch on diamond for optoelectronics

large diamond structures can be elastically deformed in a uniform and controlled way at the nanoscale

Negative polymer ink could lead to positive outcomes

A novel conductive n-type polymer ink that is stable in air and at high temperatures could pave the way for innovative printed electronics.

Crystalline and amorphous combine in new thermoelectric material

Researchers have created a new hybrid thermoelectric material in which crystalline and amorphous sublattices are intertwined.

Rusty photoelectrodes better in theory than practice

Researchers have discovered that only part of the energy of the light absorbed by hematite photoelectrodes generates mobile charge carriers.

Oxygen imperfections lead to nanoscale ferroelectricity

Researchers have discovered that migrating oxygen atoms are responsible for the unconventional ferroelectricity of hafnium-based thin films.

Understanding Li-plating could boost fast charging

in-situ optical microscopy reveals how lithium plating occurs on graphite particle anodes

Superconducting 2D puddles offer gateway to another dimension

Scientists have witnessed 2D puddles spontaneously emerging inside a 3D high-temperature superconductor as it transitions to an insulating state.

Acta Journals’ Outstanding Reviewers in 2020

Palladium film reduces pressure on room-temperature superconductors

By using a thin palladium film to transport hydrogen atoms, researchers have developed a room-temperature superconductor that works at lower pressures.

Metal-organic framework boosts sodium-ion storage

cerium oxide/carbon nanocomposite derived from a metal-organic framework makes an ideal anode for sodium-ion batteries

Carbon fibers support ground-breaking advance in structural batteries

Using carbon fibers, researchers have developed a structural battery that combines high levels of electrical energy storage, stiffness and strength.