What color were fossil animals?
Scientists have evaluated fossil color reconstruction methods and proposed a new study framework that improves and expands current practice.
Read moreMaterials Science
New technique to improve ductility of ceramic materials for missiles, engines
Researchers have developed a new process to help overcome the brittle nature of ceramics and make it more ductile and durable. The team calls the process 'flash sintering,' which adds an electric field to the conventional sintering process used to form bulk components from ceramics.
Read moreMicroplastics in the Great Lakes: Becoming benthic
From the Great Pacific garbage patch to inland rivers, plastics are among the most widespread contaminants on Earth. Microplastics — particles of plastic smaller than five millimeters — are especially pervasive. As they build up in Earth's waters, microplastics are also becoming a permanent part of the planet's sedimentary layers.
Read moreResearchers recreate living 3D displays
A research team is developing a smart skin inspired by the cephalopod which can be used in 3D displays, as interfaces for the visually impaired, and to help reduce drag on marine vehicles.
Read moreCracking the ethylene code
Separating pure ethylene from ethane is a difficult and costly process, but one that new research is poised to streamline. The technique would avoid liquefaction and distillation by designing a material that only binds ethylene molecules, thus separating them from ethane.
Read moreEngineers create tunable, nanoscale, incandescent light source
Engineers have created what may be viewed as the world's smallest incandescent lightbulbs, collections of near-nanoscale materials called 'selective thermal emitters' that absorb heat and emit light. Their research could have applications in sensing, photonics and perhaps in computing platforms beyond the limitations of silicon.
Read morePlatinum-graphene fuel cell catalysts show superior stability over bulk platinum
Films of platinum only two atoms thick supported by graphene could enable fuel cell catalysts with unprecedented catalytic activity and longevity, according to a new study.
Read moreModeling a model nanoparticle
New research introduces the first universal adsorption model that accounts for detailed nanoparticle structural characteristics, metal composition and different adsorbates, making it possible to not only predict adsorption behavior on any metal nanoparticles but screen their stability, as well.
Read moreDNA 'origami' takes flight in emerging field of nano machines
'DNA mechanotechnology' is a new field to engineer DNA machines that generate, transmit and sense mechanical forces at the nanoscale.
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