ScienceDaily: Technology - March 03, 2025
Top technology research news
Designing a satellite to hunt small space debris
Scientists are designing a satellite and instruments capable of detecting space debris as small as 1 centimeter, less than one-half inch. Debris that small, which cannot currently be detected from the ground, can damage satellites and other spacecraft in low-Earth orbit.
New device could allow you to taste a cake in virtual reality
Novel technology intends to redefine the virtual reality experience by expanding to incorporate a new sensory connection: taste.
Physicists provide a viable and testable explanation for how UHECRs are created.
In the race to meet the growing global demand for lithium -- a critical component in batteries for electric vehicles -- a team of researchers has developed a breakthrough lithium extraction method that could reshape the industry. In their study, the researchers demonstrated near-perfect lithium selectivity by repurposing solid-state electrolytes (SSEs) as membrane materials for aqueous lithium extraction. While originally designed for the rapid conduction of lithium ions in solid-state batteries -- where there are no other ions or liquid solvents -- the highly ordered and confined structure of SSEs was found to enable unprecedented separation of both ions and water in aqueous mixtures.
Powering the future -- ultrathin films are revolutionizing electrical conductivity
A multi-institutional research team has engineered a way to preserve the electrical properties of materials as they are shrunk to the nanoscale. The use of the soft substrate hexagonal boron nitride reduces damage to the atomic structure caused by strain, allowing materials to keep their conductive properties as films as thin as 12 nm.
Eco friendly, inexpensive system for storing high-power energy from pine biomass
Scientists have come up with a lithium ion capacitor using electrodes produced from wood particles that are discarded as waste in sawmills. This biomass is both readily available and sustainable, inexpensive processes have been used to produce electrodes. The results reveal that the materials derived from biomass have excellent properties for obtaining eco friendly, cost-effective systems designed to store high-power energy.
Self-driving cars learn to share road knowledge through digital word-of-mouth
A research team has developed a way for self-driving vehicles to share their knowledge about road conditions indirectly, making it possible for each vehicle to learn from the experiences of others even when they rarely meet on the road.
New ocelot chip makes strides in quantum computing
Scientists demonstrate a new quantum chip architecture for suppressing errors using a type of qubit known as a cat qubit.
Quantum interference in molecule-surface collisions
Scientists have revealed how quantum interference and symmetry dictate molecular behavior in collisions with gold surfaces, offering new insights into molecular interactions. The findings can have important implications for chemistry and materials science.
Leading the charge to better batteries
A research group has revealed fundamental insights into anode-free solid-state batteries, paving the way for efforts to improve their manufacturability.
Can we find floating vegetation on ocean planets?
Recent advances in astronomical observations have found a significant number of extrasolar planets that can sustain surface water, and the search for extraterrestrial life on such planets is gaining momentum. A team of astrobiologists has proposed a novel approach for detecting life on ocean planets. By conducting laboratory measurements and satellite remote sensing analyses, they have demonstrated that the reflectance spectrum of floating vegetation could serve as a promising biosignature. Seasonal variations in floating vegetation may provide a particularly effective means for remote detection.
A lightweight flexible alloy for extreme temperatures
Strong, lightweight, superelastic, and able to function across a range of temperatures, this newly developed alloy could be a game-changer for space exploration and medical technology.
Unraveling how a 'magnetic twist' induces one-way electric flow
A twist you'll never see coming: a breakthrough in understanding the relationship between chirality and electric flow at a microscopic level may help us develop chiral information technology.
Scientists crack the code to longer-lasting perovskite solar technology
Perovskite solar cells could last ten times longer thanks to new research, which suggests alumina nanoparticles significantly enhance the lifespan and stability of these high-efficiency energy devices.
A clear game-changer: Water-repellent glass breaks new ground
Researchers have developed a new technique to make glass water-repellent, a feature that could improve safety in vehicles, reduce cleaning costs for buildings and enhance filtration systems. The research shows how an innovative and non-toxic process using ultrasonic sound waves can alter the surface of glass, making it either hydrophobic (water resistant) or electrically charged.
Different analytical methods have a significant impact on the results of scientific studies. This is demonstrated by a study conducted by an international research team. In the study, more than 300 scientists compared 174 independent analyses of the same dataset. The findings reveal that different methods can lead to highly variable conclusions.
Professional artists viewed as more creative than AI programs
In the rapidly developing contest between human creativity and artificial intelligence algorithms, professional artists still have an edge in producing more creative AI-assisted artwork than the AI programs themselves or novice artists, according to new research.
Researchers demonstrate laser writing with unprecedented speed and resolution
Researchers developed a new optimized printing approach that could enable super-resolution 3D direct laser writing (DLW) of microlenses, photonics crystals, micro-optical devices, metamaterials and more.
A versatile AI system for analyzing series of medical images
A new AI-based system for analyzing images taken over time can accurately detect changes and predict outcomes, according to a new study. The system's sensitivity and flexibility could make it useful across a wide range of medical and scientific applications.
Young star clusters give birth to rogue planetary-mass objects
How do rogue planetary-mass objects -- celestial bodies with masses between stars and planets -- form? An international team of astronomers has used advanced simulations to show that these enigmatic objects are linked to the chaotic dynamics of young star clusters.
Cracking the code on solid-state batteries
Researchers are working to enhance battery safety and efficiency by developing solid-state alternatives to lithium-ion batteries. These batteries offer improved energy efficiency and safety, but a major challenge has been the formation of an interphase layer at the junction of the solid electrolyte and cathode. This ultra-thin layer obstructs lithium ion and electron movement, increasing resistance and degrading battery performance.
Astronauts often experience immune dysfunction, skin rashes, and other inflammatory conditions while traveling in space. A new study suggests that these issues could be due to the excessively sterile nature of spacecraft. The study showed that the International Space Station (ISS) has a much lower diversity of microbes compared to human-built environments on Earth, and the microbes that are present are mostly species carried by humans onto the ISS, suggesting that the presence of more microbes from nature could help improve human health in the space station.
NASA's Hubble provides bird's-eye view of Andromeda galaxy's ecosystem
Located 2.5 million light-years away, the majestic Andromeda galaxy appears to the naked eye as a faint, spindle-shaped object roughly the angular size of the full Moon. What backyard observers don't see is a swarm of nearly three dozen small satellite galaxies circling the Andromeda galaxy, like bees around a hive.
The latest chemicals used in refrigerants and aerosols can break down into pollutants, scientists say.
'Fluorescent phoenix' discovered with persistence rivaling Marie Curie's
A research team has successfully developed a super-photostable organic dye after two years of dedicated research demonstrating perseverance akin to that of Marie Curie, who painstakingly extracted just 0.1 grams of radium from eight tons of ore to earn her Nobel Prize.
Student refines 100-year-old math problem, expanding wind energy possibilities
An engineering student refined a century-old math problem into a simpler, more elegant form, making it easier to use and explore. Divya Tyagi's work expands research in aerodynamics, unlocking new possibilities in wind turbine design that Hermann Glauert, a British aerodynamicist and the original author, did not consider.
Material's 'incipient' property could jumpstart fast, low-power electronics
Scientists have harnessed a unique property called incipient ferroelectricity to create a new type of computer memory that could revolutionize how electronic devices work, such as using much less energy and operating in extreme environments like outer space.
Supercomputing illuminates detailed nuclear structure
Researchers have developed a new technique that predicts nuclear properties in record detail. The study revealed how the structure of a nucleus relates to the force that holds it together. This understanding could advance efforts in quantum physics and across a variety of sectors, from to energy production to national security.
A springtail-like jumping robot
Springtails, small bugs often found crawling through leaf litter and garden soil, are expert jumpers. Inspired by these hopping hexapods, roboticists have made a walking, jumping robot that pushes the boundaries of what small robots can do. The research glimpses a future where nimble microrobots can crawl through tiny spaces, skitter across dangerous ground, and sense their environments without human intervention.
Morphing robot turns challenging terrain to its advantage
A bioinspired robot can change shape to alter its own physical properties in response to its environment, resulting in a robust and efficient autonomous vehicle as well as a fresh approach to robotic locomotion.
Simulating scientists: New tool for AI-powered scientific discovery
Researchers have developed a generative AI tool that mimics scientists to support and speed up the process of scientific discoveries.
Researchers create the world's smallest shooting video game using nanoscale technology
A research team demonstrated the 'world's smallest shooting game,' a unique nanoscale game inspired by classic arcade games. This achievement was made possible by real-time control of the force fields between nanoparticles using focused electron beams. This research has practical applications, as the manipulation of nanoscale objects could revolutionize biomedical engineering and nanotechnology.
Adsorptive regolith on Mars soaks up water, researchers reveal
Researchers are looking underfoot to uncover the mysterious past of Mars: Martian regoliths in the soil. Their water storage capabilities may help us understand the change in water on Mars over time.
New method searches through 10 sextillion drug molecules
A recent study shows that computer algorithms can be used to find molecules that can be developed into anti-inflammatory drugs. In the article, the researchers also describe how the same strategy can be used to search through 10 sextillion alternatives to identify the best drug candidate.
New low-cost challenger to quantum computer: Ising machine
A low-energy challenger to the quantum computer also works at room temperature. The researchers have shown that information can be transmitted using magnetic wave motion in complex networks.
Researchers uncover key insights into CO2 reduction using SnO-based electrocatalysts
The less carbon dioxide polluting our air, the better. Researchers are investigating non-toxic, low-cost electrocatalysts to turn our sustainability goals into reality.
A team of researchers has developed an advanced physics-based AI-driven tool to aid the forensic investigation of traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
Environmental impact of unexploded ordnance in the Baltic Sea
The south-western Baltic Sea has about 3,000 kilograms of dissolved toxic chemicals released from unexploded ordnance, according to a new study. The substances were detected in almost all water samples taken in 2017 and 2018, with particularly high concentrations in the Bights of Kiel and L beck. The levels are still below thresholds for health risk, but highlight the urgent need for munitions clearance to minimize long-term risks.
AI generates playful, human-like games
A team of scientists has now created a computer model that can represent and generate human-like goals by learning from how people create games. The work could lead to AI systems that better understand human intentions and more faithfully model and align with our goals. It may also lead to AI systems that can help us design more human-like games.
Time interfaces: The gateway to four-dimensional quantum optics
A new study explores the behavior of photons, the elementary particles of light, as they encounter boundaries where material properties change rapidly over time. This research uncovers remarkable quantum optical phenomena which may enhance quantum technology and paves the road for an exciting nascent field: four-dimensional quantum optics.
Protein design: Flexible components allow new architectures
Biophysicists have elucidated why unexpected structures can sometimes arise during protein design.
Novel photochromic glass can store rewritable 3D patterns long term
For decades researchers have been exploring how to store data in glass because of its potential to hold information for a long time -- eons -- without applying power. A special type of glass that changes color in different wavelengths of light, called photochromic glass, holds promise for stable, reusable data storage. Now, researchers have developed a doped photochromic glass that has the potential to store rewritable data indefinitely.
New research offers insights that could help reduce the amount of radioactive tritium embedded in the walls of fusion vessels to a minimum.
AI accelerates discovery of neurodevelopmental disorder-associated genes
Researchers have developed an artificial intelligence (AI) approach that accelerates the identification of genes that contribute to neurodevelopmental conditions such as autism spectrum disorder, epilepsy and developmental delay. This new powerful computational tool can help fully characterize the genetic landscape of neurodevelopmental disorders, which is key to making accurate molecular diagnosis, elucidating disease mechanism and developing targeted therapies.
Multiplexing entanglement in a quantum network
Researchers use rare-earth ions to achieve the first-ever demonstration of entanglement multiplexing between individual memory qubits in a quantum network.
Sacrificial scaffolding helps new hydrogels heal quickly
Researchers have developed a hydrogel that heals and strengthens itself as it is overloaded and damaged. The proof-of-concept demonstration could lead to improved performance for situations where soft but durable materials are required, such as load-bearing connections and joints within machines, robots and even people.
New photon-avalanching nanoparticles could enable next-generation optical computers
Researchers have developed a new optical computing material from photon avalanching nanoparticles.
What can theoretical physics teach us about knitting?
Physicists bring unprecedented levels of predictability to the ancient practice of knitting by developing a mathematical model that could be used to create a new class of lightweight, ultra-strong materials.
New method developed to dramatically enhance bioelectronic sensors
In a breakthrough that could transform bioelectronic sensing, an interdisciplinary team of researchers has developed a new method to dramatically enhance the sensitivity of enzymatic and microbial fuel cells using organic electrochemical transistors (OECTs).
Toward high electro-optic performance in III-V semiconductors
From integrated photonics to quantum information science, the ability to control light with electric fields -- a phenomenon known as the electro-optic effect -- supports vital applications such as light modulation and frequency transduction. These components rely on nonlinear optical materials, in which light waves can be manipulated by applying electric fields.
Automatic cell analysis with the help of artificial intelligence
Identifying and delineating cell structures in microscopy images is crucial for understanding the complex processes of life. This task is called 'segmentation' and it enables a range of applications, such as analyzing the reaction of cells to drug treatments, or comparing cell structures in different genotypes. It was already possible to carry out automatic segmentation of those biological structures but the dedicated methods only worked in specific conditions and adapting them to new conditions was costly. An international research team has now developed a method by retraining the existing AI-based software Segment Anything on over 17,000 microscopy images with over 2 million structures annotated by hand.
Lunar Trailblazer blasts off to map water on the moon
On Wednesday 26 February, a thermal imaging camera blasted off to the Moon as part of NASA's Lunar Trailblazer mission. This aims to map sources of water on the Moon to shed light on the lunar water cycle and to guide future robotic and human missions.
ESO observations help almost fully rule out 2024 YR4 asteroid impact
New observations of 2024 YR4 conducted with the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope (ESO's VLT) and facilities around the world have all but ruled out an impact of the asteroid with our planet. The asteroid has been closely monitored in the past couple of months as its odds of impacting Earth in 2032 rose to around 3%, the highest impact probability ever reached for a sizable asteroid. After the latest observations, the odds of impact dropped to nearly zero.
New insights into efficient water splitting
A new study has revealed key factors limiting the efficiency of photoelectrochemical water splitting using a titanium dioxide photoanode for clean hydrogen production. Researchers combined intensity-modulated photocurrent spectroscopy with the distribution of relaxation times analysis to analyze charge carrier dynamics. They identified distinct behaviors related to light intensity and recombination at different applied potentials and discovered a previously unreported 'satellite peak,' offering new insights for improving material design and hydrogen production efficiency.
Rising wages drive innovation in automation technology
Labor market policies shape firms' innovation dynamics. A new study shows for the first time that higher minimum wages for low-skill jobs drive firms to develop automation technologies. Rising wages for high-skill labor, in contrast, can hamper this effect.
Why is Mars red? Scientists may finally have the answer
A new study shows a water-rich mineral could explain the planet's color -- and hint at its wetter, more habitable past.
Today's forecast: Partially cloudy skies on an 'ultra-hot Neptune'
Using the James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers investigate the extreme weather patterns and atmospheric properties of exoplanet LTT 9779 b. New JWST observations with NIRISS reveal a dynamic atmosphere: powerful winds sweep around the planet, shaping mineral clouds as they condense into a bright, white arc on the slightly cooler western side of the dayside. As these clouds move eastward, they evaporate under the intense heat, leaving the eastern dayside with clear skies.
The galactic journey of our solar system
Astronomers have discovered that the Solar System traversed the Orion star-forming complex, a component of the Radcliffe Wave galactic structure, approximately 14 million years ago. This journey through a dense region of space could have compressed the heliosphere, the protective bubble surrounding our solar system, and increased the influx of interstellar dust, potentially influencing Earth's climate and leaving traces in geological records.
Mesoporous silicon: Semiconductor with new talents
Silicon is the best-known semiconductor material. However, controlled nanostructuring drastically alters the material's properties. Using a specially developed etching apparatus, a team has now produced mesoporous silicon layers with countless tiny pores and investigated their electrical and thermal conductivity. For the first time, the researchers elucidated the electronic transport mechanism in this mesoporous silicon. The material has great potential for applications and could also be used to thermally insulate qubits for quantum computers.
From defect to high-tech material
Cadmium selenide nanoplatelets provide a promising foundation for the development of innovative electronic materials. Since the turn of the millennium, researchers around the world have taken a particular interest in these tiny platelets, which are only a few atoms thick, as they offer extraordinary optical and other properties. A team has now taken an important step towards the systematic production of such nanoplatelets.