News by Subject Chemistry & Physics

Tokyo, Japan - Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University have studied the properties of mixtures of silicone-coated "magic sand", a popular kid's toy, and normal sand. Silicone-coated sand particles were found to interact with each other only, and not with other sand particles. The team discovered that adding silicone-coated sand beyond a certain threshold leads to an abrupt change in clustering and rigidity, a simple, useful way to potentially tune the flow of granular materials for industry.

University of Tsukuba and Institute of High Pressure Physics scientists mapped the spin-density distribution of electrons travelling through a molybdenum disulfide transistor cooled to almost absolute zero. This work may help advance the field of spin-based electronics that would be faster and more efficient compared with current devices.

Professor Byoungwoo Kang develops a high-density cathode material through controlling local structures of the Li-rich layered materials.

Using thin films -- no more than a few pieces of notebook paper thick -- of a common explosive chemical, researchers from Sandia National Laboratories studied how small-scale explosions start and grow.

Metal organic framework helps silver catalyst to turn greenhouse gas into useful chemical feedstock.

Scientists at St Petersburg University have developed a new technology to prevent lithium-ion batteries from catching fire. What scientists propose is to use a 'chemical fuse' to cover the main conductor cable of the battery. It is a special protective covering made from conducting polymer. In case of abnormal situation, it breaks circuits and prevents the battery from catching fire.