Author: Patricia DeLacey
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A rule-breaking, colorful silicone that could conduct electricity
Previously only thought to be insulating, a shift in the angle between silicon and oxygen atoms creates a highway for an electrical charge.
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Maneuverable underwater vehicles inspired by golf balls
A spherical prototype with nimble dimples can change its surface from smooth to dimpled, cutting through drag and generating lift.
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Synchrotron in a closet: Bringing powerful 3D X-ray microscopy to smaller labs
A new design makes a technique for studying metals, ceramics and rocks available in a standard laboratory, expanding access for students, academic researchers and industry
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Multiple sclerosis: Cell-catching implant helps identify successful treatment in mice
The implant attracts diseased immune cells, enabling researchers to study and target them with a nanoparticle-based treatment.
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Finding the most efficient carbon-neutral aircraft for your flight
Sustainable aviation doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all solution, but an interactive tool can identify the right fit given the flight distance, speed and payload.
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Faster organic phosphorescence for better display tech
Layering an organic material on top of 2D materials achieves stable, fast phosphorescent light emission without using expensive and hazardous heavy metals.
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Burned rice hulls could help batteries store more charge
New research finds hard carbon in rice hull ash, providing a cheap, domestic source of the material that can replace graphite in lithium-ion or sodium-ion battery anodes.
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Educating People-First Engineers: A Q&A with Cindy Finelli and Erin Cech
Preparing the next generation of engineers to consider public welfare when developing new technologies.
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At $349M, research expenditures grew by 12.3% in FY 2024
‘These numbers are exciting, but at the end of the day, it’s all about impact.’
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Cancer management: Stent sensor can warn of blockages in the bile duct
New batteryless and wireless sensor tested in pigs.
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Faster, more sensitive lung cancer detection from a blood draw
Capturing nanoscale ‘packages’ that cancer cells send out, twisting gold nanoparticles use light to distinguish healthy patients from lung cancer patients.
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Twelve NSF CAREER awards received by early-career engineers
The five-year grants will support projects including energy-saving algorithms, underwater robot navigation and flexible wearable electronics.