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August 29
- Graphene’s Electronic Performance Soars With New Proximity Screening Technique
➀ Researchers achieved record-high electronic quality in graphene using "proximity screening" with hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) layers, reducing charge fluctuations and achieving carrier mobility up to 5.7×10⁷ cm²/Vs;
➀ The ultrathin hBN-graphene heterostructure suppressed noise and enabled quantum phenomena like the quantum Hall effect, with potential applications in high-speed transistors and quantum technologies;
➂ The scalable fabrication method paves the way for disorder-free 2D material devices compatible with existing semiconductor processes.
July 2
- New Flexible Material Senses Temperature Without External Power
➀ Researchers developed a self-powered temperature sensor using a flexible ionic elastomer combining thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) and ionic liquids, eliminating the need for external power;
➁ The sensor leverages triboelectric effects from temperature-induced microstructural changes, generating voltage signals that correlate with heat levels, achieving rapid and reversible responses;
➂ Potential applications include wearable electronics for real-time thermal monitoring, with future plans to optimize performance and integrate with AI systems for advanced signal analysis.
June 18
- Novel Nanoplatform Overcomes Treatment Resistance in Bladder Cancer
➀ Researchers developed **PPBC LNPs**, multifunctional nanoparticles integrating photodynamic therapy (PDT), photothermal therapy (PTT), and real-time imaging to combat treatment-resistant bladder cancer;
➁ The nanoparticles demonstrated strong anti-cancer effects by inducing cell death and suppressing autophagy (a resistance mechanism) while enabling high-resolution imaging via photoacoustic and fluorescence modalities;
➂ In vivo trials showed tumor reduction with no toxicity, and scalable microfluidic synthesis supports potential clinical translation for precision medicine.
- New Pathway for mRNA Drug Delivery Shows Shape of Things to Come
➀ Researchers discovered that the internal shape of lipid nanoparticles (e.g., cubosomes vs. liposomes) significantly impacts cellular uptake efficiency, with cubosomes showing 8x higher cell entry than commonly used liposomes;
➁ Cubosomes bypass traditional active cellular pathways (like endocytosis), fusing directly with cell membranes to evade degradation, enhancing mRNA drug delivery potential;
➂ The findings pave the way for designing tailored nanoparticles to improve precision in targeting tissues and diseases, with future research focusing on in vivo behavior and therapeutic applications.
- PI Showcases Industrial-Grade Alignment Systems and Precision Motion Solutions at LASER World of PHOTONICS 2025
➀ PI unveiled advanced industrial-grade solutions at LASER World of PHOTONICS 2025, including the AI-driven F-141 PINovAlign 6-axis alignment system for high-volume photonics and semiconductor manufacturing.
➁ The H-815 hexapod and B-421 BIX nanopositioning stages were highlighted for their robustness, compact design, and precision, targeting 24/7 industrial automation in photonics and semiconductor sectors.
➂ Future technologies like magnetic levitation (MagLev) stages and novel hexapod concepts showcased PI’s innovation in picometer-level precision and high-speed applications.
June 12
- More Displacement from Space-Tested Piezo Actuator Technology
➀ PI introduces PICMA® Plus piezo actuators offering increased displacement up to 43 microns while retaining high stiffness and reliability;
➁ Utilizes space-tested ceramic encapsulation for extreme durability, validated by NASA/JPL’s 100 billion cycle test in Mars rover missions;
➂ Operates in temperatures from -40°C to 200°C, targeting industries like semiconductor testing, photonics, and biotechnology.
- Non-Destructive X-Ray Imaging Unlocks Secrets of Ultra-Thin Layered Nanosheets
➀ Scientists used a 12-nanometer X-ray beam to non-destructively analyze ultra-thin nanosheets in electronics, revealing deformation mechanisms;
➁ The study identified two competing deformation mechanisms: long-range lattice mismatch and short-range layering effects near edges;
➂ These insights aid in optimizing nanostructures for next-gen microelectronics like GAAFETs, enhancing device performance prediction.
June 11
- Non-Destructive Imaging Uncovers Structural Secrets of Nanoelectronic Devices
➀ A non-destructive X-ray imaging method with a 12-nm beam analyzed structural deformations in nanosheets used in Gate-All-Around Field Effect Transistors (GAAFETs);
➁ Two deformation mechanisms were identified: long-range (lattice mismatch and edge relaxation) and short-range (linked to nanosheet layering);
➂ IBM and Brookhaven's NSLS-II collaboration provides insights to enhance reliability and performance prediction for nanoscale electronics.
June 5
- New Artificial Nanozyme Fights Abnormal Blood Clots
➀ Researchers at IISc developed a vanadium-based nanozyme to combat abnormal blood clotting by mimicking antioxidant enzymes and reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels;
➁ The V₂O₅ nanozymes effectively suppressed platelet overactivation in human blood and reduced thrombosis in a mouse model of pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) without harmful side effects;
➂ Unlike traditional antiplatelet drugs, the nanozymes modulate redox signaling without interfering with normal clotting, potentially reducing bleeding risks associated with current therapies.
June 4
- Loughborough University Physicists Create ‘The World’s Smallest Violin’ Using Nanotechnology
➀ Loughborough University physicists created a platinum violin measuring 35 microns long using nanotechnology to demonstrate their new nanolithography system's capabilities;
➁ The process involved thermal scanning probe lithography with a NanoFrazor machine, depositing platinum on a resist-coated chip to form the microscopic structure;
➂ The system supports research into advanced materials for next-gen computing, including energy-efficient data storage and processing methods.
June 3
- Rapid Biomimetic Nanovaccine for Personalized Cancer Therapy
➀ The study introduces a biomimetic nanovaccine (AECM@PC7A) that combines IFN-γ-treated tumor cell membranes with a synthetic adjuvant (PC7A) to enhance neoantigen presentation and activate the STING pathway, addressing limitations of conventional cancer vaccines;
➁ In preclinical models, the vaccine triggered robust T-cell responses, reduced tumor growth and metastasis, and demonstrated synergy with immune checkpoint inhibitors, leading to prolonged survival and immune memory;
➂ The platform offers a scalable approach for personalized immunotherapy by leveraging tumor-specific neoantigens and simplified manufacturing processes, showing promise for clinical translation.
May 29
- Novel Semiconductor Born from Graphene and Glass
➀ An international team led by Rice University synthesized glaphene, a hybrid 2D material combining graphene and silica glass, exhibiting unique semiconductor properties.
➁ The synthesis involved a custom high-temperature process, leading to stronger interlayer interactions and novel electronic behaviors.
➂ The breakthrough highlights the potential for creating tailored hybrid materials for advanced electronics and quantum devices through cross-disciplinary collaboration.
May 27
- 2D Materials Powering the Future of Neuromorphic and Sensory Devices
➀ 2D materials like graphene and TMDs exhibit properties mimicking biological neural functions, enabling energy-efficient neuromorphic devices for AI and robotics;
➁ Recent studies showcase 2D materials' versatility in optical signal processing, multi-sensory simulations (e.g., taste, smell), and integrated neural networks with ultra-low power consumption;
➂ Challenges in scalable manufacturing, defect-free synthesis, and system integration must be addressed to transition lab innovations into commercial AI hardware and sensory technologies.
May 23
- Micropositioning Stages Ensure High Accuracy, Stability, and Resolution Down to 0.005 Microns
➀ The L-511 precision linear stage by PI delivers ultra-fine resolution down to 0.005 microns with linear encoders, supports multi-axis configurations, and handles loads up to 110 lbs (500 N) for high stability;
➀ Customizable 2-axis/3-axis assemblies and motor controllers, paired with PI's software suite, enable seamless integration into automated systems;
➂ Widely used in semiconductor manufacturing, biotech, metrology, and laser processing for precision alignment and automation efficiency.
May 13
- Enhancing PVDF-Based TENGs with Perovskite Nanofillers via 3D Printing
➀ A study demonstrates that incorporating polymorphic FAPbI₃ perovskite nanofillers into PVDF films via 3D printing enhances triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) performance;
➁ Annealing triggers a phase transition from δ to α-phase FAPbI₃, increasing PVDF’s β-phase content (up to 83%) and creating mesoporous structures for higher charge density;
➂ Resulting TENGs achieve 392 V peak-to-peak voltage and 2587 μW/cm² power density, offering scalable, sustainable energy solutions for microelectronics.
April 25
- Enhanced Antibacterial Polylactic Acid-Curcumin Nanofibers for Wound Dressings
➀ This study presents a composite wound dressing made from polylactic acid (PLA), curcumin, and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) designed to enhance mechanical strength and antibacterial activity.
➁ Electrospinning was used to fabricate the dressing, with CNTs incorporated to enhance curcumin release and antibacterial effectiveness.
➂ The results showed that the addition of CNTs significantly improved mechanical strength and thermal stability, and the dressing exhibited good antibacterial activity.
April 24
- Nanodiscs Target Cholesterol to Fight Aggressive Brain Tumor
➀ Researchers at the University of Michigan developed nanodiscs to target cholesterol levels in GBM tumors, showing promise in increasing survival rates in treated mice;
➁ Current treatment limitations for GBM include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy, with no cure available;
➂ The nanodiscs deliver LXR agonists to increase cellular pumps for cholesterol removal, leading to cancer cell destruction, and stimulate the immune system to target tumors.
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.