Robotic lightning bugs take flight
Inspired by fireflies, researchers create insect-scale robots that can emit light when they fly, which enables motion tracking and communication.
MIT engineers boost signals from fluorescent sensors
The advance allows the particles to be placed deeper within biological tissue, which could aid with cancer diagnosis or monitoring.
MIT engineers introduce the Oreometer
Mechanical engineers put an Oreo’s cream filling through a battery of tests to understand what happens when two wafers are twisted apart.
Giving bug-like bots a boost
A new fabrication technique produces low-voltage, power-dense artificial muscles that improve the performance of flying microrobots.
Carbon nanotube-based sensor can detect SARS-CoV-2 proteins
The technology could be developed as a rapid diagnostic for Covid-19 or other emerging pathogens.
Tiny particles power chemical reactions
A new material made from carbon nanotubes can generate electricity by scavenging energy from its environment.
Researchers introduce a new generation of tiny, agile drones
The technology could boost aerial robots’ repertoire, allowing them to operate in cramped spaces and withstand collisions.
An engineering student expands her focus
For senior Danielle Grey-Stewart, a pivotal experience away from campus led to a new sense of purpose at MIT.
For Thomas Searles, a passion for people and science at HBCUs and MIT
Physicist and Martin Luther King Jr. Scholar is examining the optical properties of semimetals to understand how light interacts with quantum materials.
A new approach to carbon capture
Researchers design an effective treatment for both exhaust and ambient air.
Stiffer roadways could improve truck fuel efficiency
Study finds simple changes in road resurfacing practices could improve gas mileage for heavy vehicles and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Carbon nanotube transistors make the leap from lab to factory floor
Technique paves the way for more energy efficient, 3D microprocessors.
Nanosensor can alert a smartphone when plants are stressed
Carbon nanotubes embedded in leaves detect chemical signals that are produced when a plant is damaged.
New sensor could help prevent food waste
Monitoring the plant hormone ethylene could reveal when fruits and vegetables are about to spoil.
A new approach to making airplane parts, minus the massive infrastructure
Carbon nanotube film produces aerospace-grade composites with no need for huge ovens or autoclaves.