News by Subject Chemistry & Physics

An improved performance (activity, selectivity and stability) catalyst for the LA hydrogenation reaction is developed based on carbon supported ruthenium with low metal particle size (1.2 nm).

Some Illinois researchers working on artificial muscles are seeing results even the fittest individuals would envy, designing muscles capable of lifting up to 12,600 times their own weight. Assistant professor of mechanical science and engineering Sameh Tawfick, Beckman postdoctoral fellow Caterina Lamuta, and Simon Messelot recently published a study on how to design super strong artificial muscles in the journal Smart Material and Structures. The new muscles are made from carbon fiber-reinforced siloxane rubber and have a coiled geometry.

Scientists developed a versatile modification method of graphene without destroying it, which can build strong covalent bonds with polymers. Conductive materials obtained through such method are promising for the development of flexible organic electronics.

Using caffeine as a catalyst, MIT researchers have devised a way to create gummy, biocompatible gels that could be used for drug delivery and other medical applications.

Researchers at the University of Washington have designed a convenient and natural product that uses proteins to rebuild tooth enamel and treat dental cavities.

New smart ink turns 3-D-printed structures into objects that can change shape and color.

In a study published April 2 in the journal Advanced Materials, a University at Buffalo-led research team describes how kirigami has inspired its efforts to build malleable electronic circuits. Their innovation -- creating tiny sheets of strong yet bendable electronic materials made of select polymers and nanowires -- could lead to improvements in smart clothing, electronic skin and other applications that require pliable circuitry.

Engineers at the University of Texas at Austin, have created a low-cost, clean and safe water purification device using only natural levels of sunlight and inexpensive gel technology which could be used by communities in drought-affected areas or victims of natural disasters with limited access to clean water.