Materials science

A molecular reshuffling strategy allows access to otherwise blocked sites on polystyrene’s structure, enabling the transformation of a major form of plastic waste into a new class of high-value chemicals.

By uncovering how conventional metals interact with novel semiconductors, researchers achieve a breakthrough in nanoscale circuitry for ultra-low temperature quantum electronics.

A close look at an additive manufacturing technique for titanium alloys reveals how tiny process variations can shape high-performance components.

Controlling when a protective layer stops growing in lithium-ion batteries may be more beneficial than modifying its composition during formation.

A new fusion chemistry approach could make some of the toughest industrial plastics recyclable, with tuneable features for different applications.

A closer look at a popular catalyst for green fuels and chemicals reveals the hidden relationships between its atomic-level structure and catalytic performance.

A new computer modelling approach lends a hand with designing lighter, sturdier aircraft components from next-generation composite materials.

A new photonic device offers a hybrid metasurface design that produces brighter, tuneable light emissions for applications in quantum computing and sensing.

A closer look at aluminium battery electrolytes sheds light on the complex mechanics that set them apart from lithium-ion systems.

Inspired by sponges and trees, a novel hydrogel design paves the way for a new generation of multi-functional electronic soft sensors.

Researchers successfully prove the existence of an optical phenomenon that paves the way for compact yet ultrasensitive hydrogen sensors.

Simple tweaks in the microstructure of 3D-printed aluminium alloys add exceptional mechanical and thermal properties for semiconductor and aerospace applications.