Sponge creates steam using ambient sunlight
Bubble-wrapped structure requires no mirrors or lenses to focus the sun’s heat.
MIT develops self-shading windows
New system can rapidly switch glass from transparent to dark — and keep it that way without power.
Research by MIT undergrad helps crack chemical mystery
Study finds enzyme “cannibalizes” itself to perform an essential reaction.
MIT scientists find weird quantum effects, even over hundreds of miles
Neutrinos traveling 450 miles have no individual identities, according to MIT analysis.
Study opens new realms of light-matter interaction
Some “forbidden” light emissions are in fact possible, could enable new sensors and light-emitting devices.
Gauging the impact of climate change on U.S. agriculture
New approach tracks key factors affecting crop yields, enabling early adaptation.
New technique provides detailed views of metals’ crystal structure
Method uses readily available tools to quickly determine materials’ properties.
Scientists observe first signs of healing in the Antarctic ozone layer
September ozone hole has shrunk by 4 million square kilometers since 2000.
How the spleen filters blood
Computer model finds slits in the spleen impose a “physical fitness test” on red blood cells.
A strategy for “convergence” research to transform biomedicine
Report calls for more integration of physical, life sciences for needed advances in biomedical research.
Researchers find a way to extend life and improve performance of fuel cell electrodes
Surface treatment greatly reduces degradation of catalyst material.
Scrutinizing radiation’s impact
Nuclear science and engineering PhD student Cody Dennett simulates conditions inside reactors to measure microscopic defects in irradiated materials.
New concept turns battery technology upside-down
Pump-free design for flow battery could offer advantages in cost and simplicity.
Light can “heal” defects in some solar cells
Defects in some new electronic materials can be removed by making ions move under illumination.