Big power from tiny wires
New discovery shows carbon nanotubes can produce powerful waves that could be harnessed for new energy systems.
A new way to build membranes for fuel cells
Layer-by-layer assembly system could lead to improved fuel cells, batteries and solar panels
First germanium laser
New results from MIT’s Electronic Materials Research Group bring us closer to computers that use light instead of electricity to move data.
CRTs going down the tubes? Hardly
Surprisingly, old-style television sets and computer screens are still in demand — to make new TV sets
Iron-plated snail could inspire new armor
Analysis of unique deep-sea mollusk offers insights into design of armor for soldiers and vehicles.
‘Micro-ants’: Tiny conveyor belts for the 21st century
A new method of moving tiny particles using magnetic polymer beads and magnetic fields could find uses in microchips and in medicine
The 'sci' behind the 'fi'
A public television program explores the ways real science is starting to catch up with the futuristic visions in Star Trek.
Liquid battery big enough for the electric grid?
Professor Donald Sadoway’s research in energy storage could help speed the development of renewable energy.
New methods are changing old materials
Computational approach to materials science could bring new properties even to familiar substances such as concrete and steel
Energy researchers find Obama an eager student
In the President's visit to MIT labs he showed keen interest, quick understanding and warm appreciation, say his hosts
Physicist wins Packard Fellowship
Pablo Jarillo-Herrero will use the unrestricted funding to study materials that follow unusual rules of physics.
Fuel cells get a boost
Creating tiny steps to electrode surfaces can double the efficiency of the emissions-free electricity sources, MIT researchers find.
Energy savings in black and white
MIT students develop concept for color-changing roof tiles that absorb heat in winter, reflect it in summer.