Tag Materials science
Computer-generated database of diffusion values is shared online
University of Wisconsin–Madison engineers recently used powerful computers to quickly and accurately develop the world’s largest computed database of information about an important materials-mixing process called diffusion. Read More
Squished cells could shape design of synthetic materials
Nobody knew what would happen if something soft and squishy like a synthetic vesicle got into the mix. Read More
New nanogenerator harvests power from rolling tires
A group of University of Wisconsin–Madison engineers and a collaborator from China have developed a nanogenerator that harvests energy from a car's rolling tire friction. Read More
Carbon nanotube finding could lead to flexible electronics with longer battery life
University of Wisconsin–Madison materials engineers have made a significant leap toward creating higher-performance electronics with improved battery life — and the ability to flex and stretch. Led by materials science Associate Professor Michael Arnold and Professor Padma Gopalan, the team has reported the highest-performing carbon nanotube transistors ever demonstrated. In addition to paving the way for improved consumer electronics, this technology could also have specific uses in industrial and military applications. Read More
New institute to be catalyst for redefining UW engineering research enterprise
A new trans-disciplinary research institute in the University of Wisconsin–Madison College of Engineering is being created to drive technological advances that will enhance the success of U.S. industries and drive economic growth in the nation. Read More
Vibration energy the secret to self-powered electronics
A multi-university team of engineers has developed what could be a promising solution for charging smartphone batteries on the go - without the need for an electrical cord. Read More
Future looks bright for carbon nanotube solar cells
In an approach that could challenge silicon as the predominant photovoltaic cell material, University of Wisconsin–Madison materials engineers have developed an inexpensive solar cell that exploits carbon nanotubes to absorb and convert energy from the sun. Read More
In static friction, chemistry is key to stronger bonds
Inspired by phenomena common to both earthquakes and atomic force microscopy, University of Wisconsin–Madison materials engineers have learned that chemical reactions between two silicon dioxide surfaces cause the bonds at that interface to "age," or strengthen gradually over time. Read More
Curiosities: Is anything harder than diamond?
People have made that claim, but the verdict is not in, says Don Stone, a professor of materials science and engineering at the University of… Read More
Curiosities: What is the flattest thing in the world?
The answer depends on many factors, including how the measurement is made and the scale of interest. “A mountain can look very rough, but if… Read More
Silicon superlattices: New waves in thermoelectricity
A University of Wisconsin–Madison research team has developed a new method for using nanoscale silicon that could improve devices that convert thermal energy into electrical energy. Read More
Models present new view of nanoscale friction
To understand friction on a very small scale, a team of University of Wisconsin–Madison engineers had to think big. Read More
Green highways: Research targets environmentally friendly asphalts
For those hoping to create a greener world, our country's millions of miles of asphalt roads may seem like an odd place to seek solutions. Yet, it's precisely because asphalt is so common that we have much to gain from making it more eco-friendly, says University of Wisconsin–Madison civil engineering professor Hussain Bahia. Read More
Mother-of-pearl: Classic beauty and remarkable strength
While the shiny material of pearls and abalone shells has long been prized for its iridescence and aesthetic value in jewelry and decorations, scientists admire mother-of-pearl for other physical properties as well. Read More
Hidden gems: New composites are stiffer than diamond
Using a unique combination of barium titanate and tin, University of Wisconsin–Madison researchers have made the first known material that's stiffer than diamond. Read More