Engineering
Device offers long-distance, low-power underwater communication
Researchers create a device with piezoelectric transducers that enables battery-free underwater communication.
SpinLaunch will hurl payloads into orbit, cutting the cost of launch by 20x
Rockets are big because they require enormous amounts of fuel. SpinLaunch’s method does away with much of that by hurling payloads into space.
Arrays of quantum rods could enhance TVs or virtual reality devices
MIT engineers have used DNA origami scaffolds to create structured arrays of quantum rods, which could be incorporated into LEDs.
Simple superconducting device could dramatically cut energy use in computing
Scientists have created a simple superconducting device that could transfer current through electronic devices much more efficiently.
Scientists see metal heal itself for the first time
The first example of metal healing itself, repairing tiny cracks caused by metal fatigue, could lead to an engineering revolution.
Termite mounds inspire climate-friendly air conditioning
The intricate designs of termite mounds show how to maintain a comfortable climate, without using any power.
We’re in a “fog of war” as experts and amateurs rush to replicate superconductor LK-99
A group of Korean scientists are claiming the first superconductor that works in our everyday environment. Is it real?
Ask Ethan: Is LK-99 the holy grail of superconductors?
The holy grail of superconductor science is to find a superconductor at room temperature and standard pressure conditions. Is LK-99 the first?
Scientists rush to recreate room-temperature superconductor
Claims that a material called “LK-99” is a room-temperature superconductor are being put to the test by the scientific community.
Viral room-temperature superconductor claims spark excitement
South Korean researchers claim they've created a material capable of room-temperature superconductivity, a holy grail of science.