Nanotechnology

Microfluidic devices are poised to transform biological research by streamlining the cost, speed and precision of individual experiments

Metallic alloys containing thin, interconnected ‘snowflakes’ enhance the efficiency and safety of rechargeable batteries

Functionalized titania nanotubes make short work of pollutants on glass surfaces

A novel design promises a sensitive detector of hybrid particles that unite light and charge

A lithographic approach based on evaporating solutions makes conducting networks of microwires for electronics

An innovative surfactant design enables the synthesis of the first nanoporous silica with a tri-continuous network

High-performance transistors based on silicon–germanium nanowires can be made using an approach compatible with existing mass-production techniques

The electronic properties of graphene ribbons are strongly dependent on the atomic structures at the ribbon’s edge

Custom-built antimicrobial peptides can cross the blood–brain barrier and destroy harmful bacteria and fungi

A sensor made from silicon nanowires could warn doctors when a patient is at risk of a heart attack

Theoretical studies suggest that silicon nanowires shorter than 3 nm lose their intrinsic electronic characteristics when incorporated between metal electrodes