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Sample simulation models and stress-strain data for polymer/CNT composites at a scale of 10 nm. (a-c) Polyacrylonitrile with 50 pct to 100 pct crystallinity. (d-g) Various types of CNTs, flattened, roped, and defective graphitic structures. (h-i) Composite models and possible feature generation based on local ordering. (j) Sample stress-strain data...

In a new research paper published in Nature Energy earlier this month, Professor Michael McGehee and his research team demonstrate how to dramatically improve the stability of tin-containing perovskite material used in stacked solar cells, allowing for up to 30% power conversion efficiency. These stacked pervoskite colar cells can be...

Banner image: Clusters of solitons form in a liquid crystal. (Credit: Smalyukh lab) Take a dive into what may be the world's smallest coral reef. Scientists at CU Boulder are using a type of material called liquid crystals to create incredibly small, swirling schools of "fish", according to a study...

Every advancement in the field of soft robotics brings researchers one step closer to developing wearable, surgical and collaborative robots that could safely and effectively help humans. This is why researchers in the Department of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder have released a toolkit to show scientists,...

CU Boulder researchers developing advanced electronic skin are now investigating ways in which the material could shapeshift. This technology is being developed by CU Boulder Associate Professor Jianliang Xiao of the Department of Mechanical Engineering in collaboration with Professor Wei Zhang of the Department of Chemistry. Their completely recyclable, self-healing...

A five-centimeter-thick piece of cooling wood. What if the wood used to build your house could decrease your electricity bill? In the race to save energy, researchers at University of Colorado Boulder and the University of Maryland have harnessed nature’s nanotechnology to uncover a way for buildings to dump heat...

The American Academy of Arts and Sciences announced today that CU Boulder Professor Kristi Anseth has been elected to its 2019 class. Anseth is among more than 200 individuals selected this year for their exceptional achievements in the arts and sciences, business, philanthropy and the public sector. Founded in 1780,...

In Mary Shelley’s 1818 novel Frankenstein , Victor Frankenstein created a living being out of lifeless limbs, challenging the laws of nature and science in his dark laboratory. In Wil Srubar’s lab at CU Boulder, they may end up doing the same — though in a much cleaner, brighter lab...

A pharaoh cuttlefish. Research into how light can affect material shape goes deep—rather, into the depths—by drawing inspiration from cephalopods: marine animals including squids, octopuses and cuttlefish that can change their shape and color. Cells called chromatophores allow these many-armed mollusks to change their skin texture to better blend in...

Over the next three years, CU Boulder researchers and their partners will develop, fabricate and test a network of 3D-printed biodegradable soil sensors aimed at allowing farmers to affordably and efficiently monitor crop conditions. Associate Professor Gregory Whiting and Research Associate Nikolaus Setiawan discuss electrical measurements. Photo credit: Cameron Douglas...