Scientists observe long-predicted “clock magnetism” in an atomically thin crystal

When scientists shrink materials down to extremely thin layers—sometimes just a single atom thick—their behavior can become very unusual. A new study has now revealed...

Scientists design ice-controlling proteins to help the U.S. operate in extreme arctic cold

As the Arctic becomes a region of growing strategic competition, operating in its harsh environment remains a major challenge. Extremely low temperatures, ice buildup, and...

A simple mineral could help solve the data center energy crisis

Data centers are the backbone of the modern internet. They store photos, stream movies, power cloud services, and train artificial intelligence systems. But these warehouse-sized buildings...

Next-generation fuel cells may clean themselves during operation

Fuel cells are devices that produce electricity by converting chemical energy directly into electrical energy. Unlike batteries, which store electricity and eventually run out, fuel...

A strange new material gets smaller when heated—and could transform computer memory

Most materials we use in everyday life expand when they are heated. Metals, plastics, and many other materials grow slightly larger as the temperature rises...

Why established battery giants still hold the advantage in the sodium-ion era

Sodium-ion batteries are often described as the next big thing in clean energy storage, promising lower costs and freedom from scarce materials like lithium...

Why breakthrough solar cells often fail to reach your roof

Many new energy technologies look impressive in the laboratory but never become real products. Solar cells are a clear example. Scientists can achieve record performance...

Raincoat no longer waterproof? Why—and how to fix it

You pull on your rain jacket, step out into the storm, and within half an hour your undershirt is soaked. The jacket you purchased as...

Scientists solve key stability problems in inverted perovskite solar cells

Solar power is getting cheaper and more powerful, but researchers are still working to make the next generation of solar panels reliable enough for...

Sunlight-powered catalyst could help eliminate “forever chemicals”

Scientists have developed a new material that uses sunlight to break down PFAS, a group of long-lasting pollutants often called “forever chemicals.” The discovery offers...