NEWSROOM

In new research, scientists at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory have unveiled a novel approach to understanding stochasticity in tiny magnetic structures. Their insights have the potential to transform computing architectures, leading to more sophisticated neural networks that can learn and adapt like the human brain, as well as enhancing encryption technologies to secure data against increasingly complex cyber threats.

As described in a report in the science journal Nature Materials, the scientists stacked two ultrathin layers of graphene, each a one-atom-thick sheet of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal grid. They twisted them slightly atop a layer of hexagonal boron nitride, a hexagonal crystal made of boron and nitrogen. A subtle misalignment between the layers that formed moiré patterns – patterns similar to those seen when two fine mesh screens are overlaid – significantly altered ho

“We now have a better sense of how the protons behave in the crystal,” says HPSTAR researcher Ho-Kwang Mao. “This gives us hope that the metallic state can actually be achieved – and we now have a fuller understanding of how this may happen.” In future, the team hopes to get even closer to its goal by using sophisticated technology to cool the diamond anvil cell.

Empa researchers from the Cellulose and Wood Materials laboratory have now developed a bio-based material. Not only is it completely biodegradable, it is also tear-resistant and has versatile functional properties. All this with minimal processing steps and without chemicals – you can even eat it. Its secret: It's alive.

Recently, two scientists from the ICN2 Nanobioelectronics and Biosensors Group participated in a perspective article analysing advances and challenges of the use of 2D materials in sensing technologies. This work represents an international collaboration as part of the European Graphene Flagship initiative, aimed at advancing graphene research and its application in society.

Until now, physicists have struggled to provide a theoretical framework explaining why cracks often branch out and deviate from their expected path, slowing down as a result. Two recent studies from the Weizmann Institute of Science bring order to the disorderly propagation of cracks and show that, although each crack may seem unique, there are quantitative physical parameters that shape the propagation process and explain the formation of asymmetrical crack patterns.