Category Physics

Electron microscopy showing one of the unique geometries observed in the nano-silicon power derived from diatomaceous earth. Credit: Image courtesy of University of California – Riverside

Engineers have developed an inexpensive, energy-efficient way to create silicon-based anodes for lithium-ion batteries from the fossilized remains of single-celled algae called diatoms. The research could lead to the development of ultra-high capacity lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and portable electronics.

Lithium-ion batteries, the most popular rechargeable batteries in electric vehicles and personal electronics, have several major components including an anode, a cathode, and an electrolyte made of lithium salt dissolved in an organic solvent...

Four-dimensional unsubtraction from the loop-tree duality

Researchers at the universities of Valencia and Florence propose an approach to the experimental data generated by the LHC that solves the infinity problem without breaching the 4 dimensions of space-time. The theories currently used to interpret the data emerging from CERN’s Large Hadron Collider (LHC), which have so far most notably led to the discovery of the Higgs boson, are poorly defined within the four dimensions of space-time established by Einstein in his Theory of Special Relativity. In order to avoid the infinities resulting from the calculations that these theories inspire, new dimensions are added in a mathematical trick which, although effective, does not reflect what we now know about our Universe.

Now though, a group...

Free-standing, flexible, superomniphobic films can readily attach them to virtually any surface. They have applications in enhanced chemical resistance and enhanced weight bearing.

Assistant Prof. Arun Kota, CSU, has made a superomniphobic tape that, when adhered to any surface, gives the surface liquid-repelling properties. Superomniphobic surfaces are extremely repellent to all liquids, made possible by an air cushion that lies between a liquid and a solid surface. With more than 10 years of research in this area, Kota has made many breakthroughs in super-repellent coatings. This latest product is similar in flexibility to Scotch Tape, but has the additional functionality of being extremely liquid-repellant.

Kota, doctoral student Hamed Vahabi, and postdoctoral fellow Wei Wang, developed...

A team of students from the University of Cincinnati looks on as their Hyperloop Prototype prepares to levitate. Credit: Jay Yocis/University of Cincinnati

The whirring sound of Hyperloop UC’s hover engines filled the conference room as an anxious crowd shuffled closer for a better view. The answer came in a matter of moments as the 8 miniature engines gained revolutions per minute – emitting noises reminiscent of Star Wars sound effects – and the 14-foot-long Hyperloop UC pod achieved roughly a quarter-inch of magnetic levitation.

The unveiling and demo of Hyperloop UC’s prototype at the University of Cincinnati’s Myers Alumni Center on Oct...