Nanotechnology

Earthworms Synthesize Semiconductors From Heavy Metals

January 3, 2013, 3:00 pm

The red worm, Lumbricus rubellus, can make nano-semiconductors called quantum dots when fed soil that contains metals like cadmium and tellurium.

Nano-Device Generates Electricity by Hurdling Electrons

August 11, 2012, 3:50 am

Researchers found a new way of generating an electric current with an electron pump, which brings about a new level of accuracy that could soon be used to calibrate machinery.

‘Green’ Electric T-Shirt Could Charge Cellphones

July 7, 2012, 11:43 am

An environmentally friendly process that stores electrical energy in cotton clothing could be used to recharge electronic gadgets.

Mimicking Firefly Light to Design Tomorrow’s Light Bulbs

June 26, 2012, 3:27 am

Watching the soft glow of fireflies could become a more common activity if researchers at Syracuse University have anything to do with it.

Piezoelectricity Goes Viral (Video)

May 16, 2012, 2:24 am

Californian scientists are using viruses to harvest energy from everyday vibrations like walking.

New Fabric Coating Actively Resists Stains and Water

May 11, 2012, 8:52 pm

Researchers have developed a fabric coating that can make dirt and grime slough off.

Majorana Fermions Glimpsed in Cold Nanowires?

April 13, 2012, 12:36 am

Majorana particles may have been detected for the first time since their theoretical existence was first proposed in the 1930s, with potential applications for quantum computing.

Super-Buoyant Material Mimics Water Striders

March 29, 2012, 9:40 pm

Imagine an ultra lightweight material so buoyant that a one-pound boat constructed from it could carry 1,000 pounds–equivalent to five kitchen fridges.