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When nanoparticles become “artificial atoms”When nanoparticles become “artificial atoms”

The contention of a major but controversial new theory to explain nanocrystal growth is that nanoparticles can act as “artificial atoms,” forming molecular-type building blocks that can assemble into complex structures. The conclusion is based on recent observations of growing nanorods made by Lawrence Berkeley National Laoratory researchers using transmission electron microscopy and advanced liquid cell handling techniques.

New type of paper is made of graphene and protein fibrils

New type of paper is made of graphene and protein fibrils

Researchers in Switzerland have created a new nanocomposite that combines the best features of graphene and protein fibrils, the two main ingredients of a specialized type of paper. The material is created in much the same way as normal cellulose paper, but the properties are far different. Shape memory, electrical conductivity, and hydrophobia all offer interesting application possibilities.

Atomic-scale visualization of electron pairing in iron superconductors

Atomic-scale visualization of electron pairing in iron superconductors

By measuring how strongly electrons are bound together to form Cooper pairs in an iron-based superconductor, scientists provide direct evidence supporting theories in which magnetism holds the key to this material’s ability to carry current with no resistance. This research strengthens confidence that this type of theory may one day be used to identify or design new materials with improved properties.

Oxidation reaction is first-ever with well-defined alignment, spin

Oxidation reaction is first-ever with well-defined alignment, spin

An important chemical species, molecular oxygen is linear, has an anisotropic shape, and spins from two unpaired electrons. However, until now, we didn’t know how these properties influenced important oxidation reactions. Researchers in Japan have now reported development of the world's first molecular oxygen beam that can designate the alignment of the molecular axis and spin direction.

“Killer” silk fibers eliminate anthrax and other microbes in minutes

“Killer” silk fibers eliminate anthrax and other microbes in minutes

Researchers at the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory have invented a simple, inexpensive dip-and-dry treatment can convert ordinary silk into a fabric that kills disease-causing bacteria—even the armor-coated spores of microbes like anthrax—in minutes.

Better, stronger, lighter armor

What makes a piece of armor effective? Sure, it needs to be strong, and it should be lightweight. But what is it about a material's composition that gives it such properties? And can we develop materials that provide even better protection? With decades' worth of investment and preparation, California Institute of Technology engineers are particularly well equipped to address such questions as part of a new Army-funded program to improve protective gear and vehicles for soldiers.

Study: Quantum dots appear safe in pioneering study on primates

A year-long evaluation of the effect of quantum dots in primates has found the nanoparticles to be safe, encouraging doctors and scientists who are hoping to use them to battle diseases like cancer. Cadmium selenide quantum dots were the variety used in the study.

Scientists develop a less toxic way to rust-proof steel

Scientists develop a less toxic way to rust-proof steel

University at Buffalo researchers are making significant progress on rust-proofing steel using a graphene-based composite that could serve as a nontoxic alternative to coatings that contain hexavalent chromium, a probable carcinogen.

Scientist attempts to grow nanocomposites faster

Scientist attempts to grow nanocomposites faster

Joshua Zide has spent nearly a decade engineering nanomaterials using molecular beam epitaxy. His particular area of expertise are metalllic-semiconductor nanocomposite for use in electronics, and he is now working on a variation of epitaxy that he hopes will bring the materials deposition technique to the production line for the first time.

New process technologies bring better helmets to the field

The U.S. Army Research Laboratory-led Army ManTech program has achieved a breakthrough in the ability to process thermoplastic-based composites for use in the helmets of soldiers. The new material grades have produced several types of head protection, each of which saves at least one-quarter the weight and up to 35% higher tolerance from fragmenting munitions.

Why volcanoes could be a girl’s best friend

Why volcanoes could be a girl’s best friend

Scientists in the U.K. have discovered a previously unrecognized volcanic process called “fluidized spray granulation”, which can occur during kimberlite eruptions to produce well-rounded particles containing mantle, most notably diamonds. This physical process is remarkable similar to the gas injection and spraying process used to form smooth coatings on chocolates.

Plasma coating technology eliminates vacuum, wet chemistry

Plasma coating technology eliminates vacuum, wet chemistry

Wet chemical processes or vacuum plasma processes are typically used for coating applications in industry. Both have drawbacks: vacuum units are expensive and time-consuming, and wet chemistry is energy-intensive and environmentally challenging. Researchers have recently developed a new kind of plasma coating process that works at ambient pressure.

You can't play nano-billiards on a bumpy table

You can't play nano-billiards on a bumpy table

There's nothing worse than a shonky pool table with an unseen groove or bump that sends your shot off course. A new study has found that the same goes at the nano-scale, where the "billiard balls" are tiny electrons moving across a "table" made of the semiconductor gallium arsenide.

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R&D 100: Now and Then

R&D 100: Now and Then

As R&D Magazine prepares for the 50th annual R&D 100 Awards, the editors take a stroll through the awards history, and invite former winners to join them.

R&D 100 Awards: Final Deadline is April 30

R&D 100 Awards: Final Deadline is April 30

The editors of R&D Magazine have extended the submission deadline for the 2012 R&D 100 Awards to April 30, 2012, at 11:59 pm, eastern U.S. time. This is the FINAL DEADLINE. We cannot accept entries after that time.

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CC Radio - Episode 99

NIH bikes to work. For transcripts of this and other NIH Clinical Center podcasts, visit http://www.cc.nih.gov/podcast/

Blueshift - May 21, 2012: Astrophysicist to the Stars, Dr. David Saltzberg

In a follow-up to our previous interviews with co-creator of "The Big Bang Theory," Bill Prady, we interviewed Dr. David Saltzberg, the show's resident astrophysicist and science consultant. Find out more about his research, adventures in astrophysics, and how he keeps the science of the...

New To Market

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JEOL to launch world's smallest solid-state NMR probe
JEOL to launch world's smallest solid-state NMR probe

According to JEOL Resonance, a new benchmark for resolution and benchmark will be set with its introduction next week of a new 0.75-mm solid state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) probe. The probe is capable of high resolution sample analysis by spinning the sample at 110 kHz, the world's fastest spinning speed for NMR.

Energy Harvesting Subsystems for Wireless Sensors

Nextreme Thermal Solutions has developed two new energy harvesting subsystems for the plumbing and HVAC industries. The subsystems are the latest additions to Nextreme's Thermobility energy harvesting platform that uses thin-film thermoelectric technology to convert available thermal energy into electric power for a variety of autonomous self-powered applications.

Tools & Technology

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Microscope System with LED Illumination
Microscope System with LED Illumination

Leica Microsystems has introduced the Leica DM4000 B LED, a microscope system with LED illumination suited for biomedical applications.

Liquid Handler

Gilson Inc. has introduced the GX-241 liquid handler, a compact liquid handler suited for application and laboratories where bench space is at a premium.

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