Author page description
April 23
- Levidian and Zentek Seek to Establish Graphene-Integrated Filter Manufacturing Facility in the Middle East to Advance Cleaner, Safer Air Collaboration will Drive the Adoption of Zentek’s Technology Wh
➀ British climate tech company Levidian and Canadian graphene technology company Zentek have entered an agreement to explore the establishment of a new manufacturing facility in the Middle East.
➁ The collaboration aims to combine expertise in carbon capture, graphene production, and materials development to accelerate the roll out of Zentek’s ZenGUARD™ Enhanced Air Filters and other graphene-enhanced products.
➂ Levidian’s patented LOOP system produces clean hydrogen and high-quality graphene by capturing carbon from methane before it’s burned.
- Scalable Nanoimprinted Lithium Niobate Metalenses for Nonlinear Optics
➀ A new fabrication method for nonlinear optical components using nanostructured polycrystalline lithium niobate (LN) is reported;
➁ The method addresses limitations of top-down fabrication techniques for LN;
➂ It introduces a bottom-up strategy using sol-gel chemistry to produce a printable LN precursor;
➃ The resulting polycrystalline LN maintains relevant optical properties and allows for the fabrication of nonlinear metasurfaces.
April 22
- Self-Aligned Carbon Nanotube Phototransistors for Infrared Detection
➀ A recent study introduces a self-aligned gate architecture for carbon nanotube (CNT) phototransistors designed for shortwave infrared (SWIR) detection.
➁ The devices demonstrate high responsivity and detectivity while maintaining a simplified fabrication process.
➂ The self-aligned gate structure allows for complete coverage of the CNT channel, improving optical and electrical coupling.
- PI Expands US Manufacturing of Precision Motion Solutions to Navigate Trade Dynamics and Enhance Customer Support
➀ PI (Physik Instrumente) is expanding its US manufacturing capabilities to address trade dynamics and improve customer support.
➁ The new facility in Shrewsbury, Massachusetts, is set to open in Fall 2025.
➂ The expansion aims to reduce lead times and align production closer to the US customer base.
April 18
- Optimizing Cobalt Thin Films for Data Storage: Plasma-Assisted Surface Modification
➀ This research investigates how metallic thin films, specifically cobalt layers used in hard disk drives (HDDs), can be modified to improve performance and reliability through plasma-assisted surface modification techniques.
➁ The study uses molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and experimental validation to demonstrate how different inert gas ions affect asperity size and surface texture.
➂ The findings suggest that heavier inert gas ions are more effective at reducing asperity size, with Xenon (Xe) providing the most pronounced smoothing effect.
- Manufacturing Nanomaterials in Space to Treat Disease on Earth
➀ Researchers from the University of Connecticut and Eascra Biotech are producing innovative nanomaterials in space to improve treatments for osteoarthritis and cancer.
➁ Janus base nanomaterials (JBNs) are developed to regenerate cartilage and could be used in precision cancer treatment.
➂ The ISS National Lab is used to test the production of JBNs in space, where gravity-driven forces are reduced, leading to better uniformity and patient outcomes.
April 17
- Thermic Edge Launches Advanced ALD System for Next-Generation Semiconductor Manufacturing
Thermic Edge Ltd proudly introduces its new Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) System, designed to accelerate the integration of 2D materials into next-generation semiconductor devices. The system combines single-chamber ALD and high-temperature annealing, reducing contamination risks and improving process efficiency. It supports wafer-scale processing up to 8 inches and ensures uniform deposition across large-area substrates. The system features a showerhead gas delivery system for uniform gas distribution, precise temperature control, and multi-gas compatibility for oxide, sulfide, and nitride processing.
April 16
- Modeling Breakthrough Offers Insight Into Nanocrystal Formation
➀ Researchers have developed a new approach to model seed particles with 100 to 200 atoms;
➁ The shapes of the tiny particles depend on the solvent composition and temperature;
➂ This research can suggest promising routes for growing nanoparticles with desired sizes and shapes.
- Melexis Announces Next Step in Its China Strategy, Adding Locally Sourced Semiconductor Manufacturing and Logistics
➀ Melexis, a global supplier of micro-electronic semiconductor solutions, announces a significant expansion in its China strategy by establishing a local logistics hub and end-to-end local manufacturing in China.
➁ The expansion is in response to the rapid growth of China's automotive, consumer, industrial, and robotics industries, where Melexis has secured notable design wins.
➂ Melexis has entered a new phase of its China strategy, focusing on innovation and customer collaboration, while reducing lead times.
April 15
- Enhancing Chitosan Films with Silanized Hexagonal Boron Nitride for Sustainable Applications
➀ This study explores the development of chitosan-silanized hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) nanocomposite films;
➁ It focuses on their structural, mechanical, and barrier properties;
➂ The research aims to enhance the performance of biodegradable polymer films, overcoming limitations of chitosan.
- New Nanocage Material Removes Up to 90% of Toxic PFAS from Water
➀ Researchers have developed a molecular nanocage that can capture a wide range of PFAS from water, significantly outperforming conventional filtration methods like activated carbon.
➁ The nanocage system removed 80% of PFAS from sewage and 90% from groundwater in study tests.
➂ The material shows promise for more efficient, safer, and sustainable water remediation.
April 14
- Biochar-Modified Titanium Dioxide Nanocomposites for Enhanced Water Treatment
➀ A study in Scientific Reports introduces the development of PVA films embedded with biochar-modified titanium dioxide nanocomposites for improved water treatment performance;
➁ The research aims to address dye removal and disinfection challenges in wastewater management through the use of TiO₂ and biochar;
➂ The biochar-modified nanocomposites demonstrate high adsorption capacity, rapid dye removal, and antibacterial properties, making them suitable for wastewater treatment.
April 12
- Light-Induced Symmetry Shifts Enable New Advances in Nanomaterials
➀ Researchers at Argonne National Laboratory have discovered how to use light to control the symmetry of quantum dots, leading to new materials with tailored properties;
➁ The study demonstrates that light can alter the arrangement of atoms in quantum dots, changing their electronic properties;
➂ The findings open up new possibilities for designing materials with unique properties, potentially revolutionizing fields like electronics and medical imaging.
April 11
- Nano-Enhanced Dual-Mode Film for Sustainable Thermal Management
➀ The article introduces a dual-mode film made from nano-engineered scattering fibers derived from upcycled chip bags, designed for sustainable thermal management.
➁ The film absorbs solar energy in cold conditions and reflects it in warm ones, improving building energy efficiency.
➂ The film is constructed with a biopolymer base and silica nanoparticles, and its scalability and environmental responsibility are highlighted.
April 10
- Study Shows Potential for New Treatments for Neurological and Inflammatory Diseases
➀ Researchers from Oregon State University have developed a method to deliver anti-inflammatory drugs across the blood-brain barrier;
➁ This may enable new treatments for diseases such as cancer cachexia, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer's disease;
➂ The delivery system uses specially designed nanoparticles and has been successful in a mouse model.
April 9
- Image Acquisition Software Launch for Centralized Control of NanoZoomer® MD Series
➀ Hamamatsu Photonics Europe has launched NZConnectMD Scan, an image acquisition platform for digital pathology workflows.
➁ The software allows for centralized control of multiple NanoZoomer MD Series scanners.
➂ Key features include barcode-based slide tracking, workflow balancing, and space optimization.
- US-Manufactured Direct-Drive Rotation Stage for Ultra-High Precision Industrial Applications
➀ PI (Physik Instrumente) LP, a leader in precision motion control, introduces the V-625 direct drive rotation stage;
➁ The stage is designed for high-precision rotary motion in metrology, semiconductor inspection, and aerospace;
➂ It features an absolute-measuring high-resolution encoder with 0.0015 µrad resolution and direct-drive technology for smooth, precise operation.
April 7
- Oxalic Acid Triggers Gadolinium Nanoparticle Formation in Human Tissues
➀ Researchers at the University of New Mexico have found that oxalic acid, a compound found in many foods, can produce gadolinium nanoparticles in human tissues;
➁ Gadolinium is a rare-earth metal used in MRI scans, and its contrast agents are administered to enhance image clarity;
➂ The study suggests that oxalic acid may play a role in the formation of nanoparticles that lead to health issues in kidneys and other organs.
- Nano Dimension Completes Acquisition of Desktop Metal
➀ Nano Dimension has completed the acquisition of Desktop Metal, Inc., a leader in digital manufacturing.
➁ The combined company aims to be a global leader in innovative systems, software, and materials for high-value applications.
➂ The transaction is valued at $179.3 million and is expected to generate over $200 million in annual revenue.
- N-Doped Ti3O5: Enhanced Photocatalytic Removal of Phenolic Compounds from Wastewater
➀ The study investigates the use of N-doped Ti3O5 nanoparticles as a photocatalyst for phenolic compound degradation in industrial wastewater;
➁ N-doped Ti3O5 shows improved performance over TiO2, achieving high degradation efficiencies under various light sources;
➂ The optimized conditions for degradation include neutral pH, 1 g/L catalyst dosage, and 30 minutes of irradiation time.
April 4
- Novel Caffeine Sensor Based on Zn-SnO2 Nanoparticles
➀ Researchers have developed a novel caffeine sensor using zinc-doped tin oxide nanoparticles as an electrocatalyst.
➁ The sensor exhibits exceptional sensitivity and selectivity, with potential applications in food safety, healthcare, and environmental monitoring.
➂ The sensor is based on Zn-SnO₂ nanoparticles, which are coated onto a gold electrode and show high sensitivity and selectivity in detecting caffeine.
April 1
- Supercomputer Modeling Reveals Critical Shape Changes in Nanoparticle Seed Formation
➀ Researchers from Pennsylvania State University have developed a new method for effectively modeling seed particles composed of 100–200 atoms using a supercomputer.
➁ The study reveals that temperature and solvent composition have unexpected effects on the shapes of these microscopic particles.
➂ Adding or removing just one atom can sometimes lead to a significant change in the particle's shape.
- Water Purification and Energy Generation Using a CNF@CTAB-MXene/PTFE Janus Membrane
➀ A recent study introduces a Janus membrane for water purification and energy generation, aiming to address water scarcity and energy needs;
➁ The membrane uses cellulose nanofibers (CNF) and a modified MXene to improve performance over longer periods;
➂ The Janus membrane demonstrates better performance than traditional membranes, achieving a high evaporation rate and photothermal conversion efficiency, and effectively preventing salt buildup.
March 31
- Enhancing Heat Transfer with HPhP in Hexagonal Boron Nitride
➀ Researchers have explored a novel approach to boost thermal transport across solid interfaces by activating hyperbolic phonon-polariton (HPhP) modes in hexagonal boron nitride (hBN).
➁ These hybrid light–vibration modes can transfer energy at rates far exceeding conventional phonon–phonon conduction.
➂ The study shows that hBN can act as a high-performance medium for ultrafast thermal dissipation, with potential applications in high-frequency or high-power devices.
March 28
- Light-Driven Plasmonic Microrobots for Nanoparticle Manipulation
➀ This study presents a new microrobotic platform designed to improve the precision and versatility of nanoparticle manipulation using light.
➁ The microrobots are constructed with a rigid, transparent disk-shaped body and plasmonic antennas, with a plasmonic nano-tweezer at the core for nanoparticle trapping.
➂ The platform demonstrates high precision in trapping, transporting, and releasing nanoparticles, with potential applications in targeted drug delivery and quantum sensing.
- Carbon Nanohoop Technology Enables Efficient and Controlled Iron Release
➀ Researchers from the Universities of Amsterdam and Zurich have developed a novel molecular system for controlled iron release by combining ferrocene with a carbon-based nanohoop;
➁ The system can release Fe2+ ions upon activation by green light, showing significant potential;
➂ The research may lead to the development of new responsive materials in supramolecular, organometallic, and polymer chemistry.
March 27
- YES Pioneers Semiconductor Equipment Production in India
➀ YES, a global leader in materials and interface engineering equipment solutions, has shipped the first commercial VeroTherm Formic Acid Reflow tool to a global semiconductor manufacturer from its Sulur, Coimbatore facility.
➁ This marks a significant milestone for YES and the Indian semiconductor ecosystem, as it is the first equipment produced in India for advanced semiconductor applications like HBM.
➂ The Sulur facility, which commenced operations in September 2024, is part of YES's strategic expansion plan to serve global customers more efficiently.
March 26
- Enhancing Muscle Repair with Lipoic Acid-Modified Gold Nanoparticles
➀ The study investigates the potential of lipoic acid-modified gold nanoparticles (LA-Au NPs) to promote muscle repair by modulating macrophage polarization.
➁ LA-Au NPs enhance M2 polarization in macrophages, leading to improved muscle stem cell activation and muscle regeneration.
➂ In vivo, Mac@Au NPs treatment improved muscle mass, strength, and motor coordination in a sarcopenia model.
- Advanced Piezo Nanopositioning Stage provides 6-Axis Motion with Frictionless Guiding System
➀ The P-562.6CD 6-axis Nanopositioning Stage from PI (Physik Instrumente) offers nanometer-level accuracy, repeatability, and high dynamic performance with millisecond responsiveness across six degrees of freedom.
➁ It uses PICMA® piezo actuators and play-free flexure-guided mechanics for frictionless motion and long-term stability.
➂ The stage is designed for photonics, semiconductor metrology, super-resolution microscopy, and nanomanufacturing.
March 24
- Engineered Nanoclusters for Enhanced Stability in Hydrogen Evolution
➀ An international research team has developed a novel electrochemical catalyst for sustainable hydrogen production;
➁ The catalyst, based on a Ru nanocluster with a core-shell structure, shows high performance and stability with minimal use of precious metals;
➂ It outperforms platinum catalysts in hydrogen evolution reaction efficiency and has potential for commercial applications.