A research team has developed an intravenous (IV) needle that softens upon insertion, minimizing risk of damage to blood vessels and tissues. Once used, it remains soft even at room temperature, preventing accidental needle stick injuries and unethical multiple use of needle. A thin-film temperature sensor can be embedded with this needle, enabling real-time monitoring …

An intravenous needle that irreversibly softens via body temperature on insertion? Read More »

A research team has developed a reversible, water-based glue that has good adhesion in the neutral pH range, but can be detached again in strongly acidic or alkaline environments. The novel adhesive system, which is based on electrostatic interactions, has bond strengths somewhere between those of structural adhesives and pressure-sensitive adhesives. The new adhesive also …

Recycling of water-based adhesive achieved by changing pH Read More »

Planetary rovers, which help humanity explore other planets, can deviate from their targeted paths or get stuck due to slipping on loose soil. To combat this problem, researchers have developed a novel system for rovers to detect their slip condition from the change in the shape of their chassis. This novel technology, inspired by human …

A novel system for slip prevention of unmanned rovers Read More »

Sodium- and potassium-ion batteries are promising next-generation alternatives to the ubiquitous lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, their energy density still lags behind that of LIBs. To tackle this issue, researchers explored an innovative strategy to turn hard carbon into an excellent negative electrode material. Using inorganic zinc-based compounds as a template during synthesis, they prepared nanostructured …

Template for success: Shaping hard carbon electrodes for next-generation batteries Read More »

Researchers used chiral (twisted) magnets as their computational medium and found that, by applying an external magnetic field and changing temperature, the physical properties of these materials could be adapted to suit different machine-learning tasks. ​Researchers used chiral (twisted) magnets as their computational medium and found that, by applying an external magnetic field and changing …

Twisted magnets make brain-inspired computing more adaptable Read More »

Deep within every piece of magnetic material, electrons dance to the invisible tune of quantum mechanics. Their spins, akin to tiny atomic tops, dictate the magnetic behavior of the material they inhabit. This microscopic ballet is the cornerstone of magnetic phenomena, and it’s these spins that a team of researchers has learned to control with …

quantum mechanics: Unlocking the secrets of spin with high-harmonic probes Read More »

Researchers have made a significant breakthrough in developing a passive radiative cooling (PRC) material. The material, known as cooling ceramic, has achieved high-performance optical properties for energy-free and refrigerant-free cooling generation. Its cost-effectiveness, durability and versatility make it highly suitable for commercialization in numerous applications, particularly in building construction.  ​Researchers have made a significant breakthrough in …

New cooling ceramic can enhance energy efficiency for the construction sector and help combat global warming Read More »

A heat-pump-like system that relies on a phenomenon called electrocaloric cooling could heat or chill a room almost twice as efficiently as standard air-con units ​A heat-pump-like system that relies on a phenomenon called electrocaloric cooling could heat or chill a room almost twice as efficiently as standard air-con units A heat-pump-like system that relies on …

Cooling system could replace air con and drastically cut energy use Read More »

At a meeting between US president Biden and China president Xi, there was agreement on the need for more US-China government talks on AI safety ​At a meeting between US president Biden and China president Xi, there was agreement on the need for more US-China government talks on AI safety At a meeting between US president …

How the US and China talking AI safety could reduce nuclear war risk Read More »

Needles and catheters can irritate the body and may pose a risk to others if not properly disposed of, but a flexible alternative made from gallium solves both problems ​Needles and catheters can irritate the body and may pose a risk to others if not properly disposed of, but a flexible alternative made from gallium …

Flexible needle goes soft after injections for safety and comfort Read More »