The study measures the in-plane dielectric constant and conductivity of water confined in nanoscale channels, revealing that both properties increase significantly under extreme confinement, with dielectric constants reaching ferroelectric-like values and conductivities approaching superionic levels, especially in quasi-2D water layers, providing new insights into interfacial water behavior at the molecular scale.
Researchers at NC State University have developed "glassy gels," a new class of materials that combine the hardness of glassy polymers with the stretchability of gels. These materials, which are more than 50% liquid, are efficient conductors of electricity and highly adhesive. The simple production process and unique properties of glassy gels make them promising for various applications.
Scientists have successfully transformed pure water into a metallic state by bringing it into contact with an electron-sharing alkali metal, inducing conductivity and a golden sheen. This breakthrough, achieved without the need for extremely high pressures, provides insight into the phase transition of water and could facilitate the study of extreme high-pressure conditions within large planets. The research, published in Nature, offers potential for replicating conditions inside planets like Neptune and Uranus, where metallic hydrogen is thought to exist.
The Korean Pathfinder Lunar Orbiter, Danuri, has revealed an intriguing discrepancy in the conductivity between the near and far sides of the Moon. The far side appears to be more conductive, which scientists have yet to explain. The orbiter has also discovered widespread magnetic fields on the far side, indicating greater conductivity deep within the Moon. Possible explanations include higher temperatures or more water under the surface on the far side. The mission has been extended until December 2025 but will face challenges during lunar eclipses that may strain its batteries.
Physicists are studying the behavior of matter under extreme pressures found deep within planets and stars. Using tools like lasers, they have discovered that water can become a hot black ice that conducts electricity, hydrogen gas can be compressed into a shiny metal, and sodium can turn transparent. These findings have implications for understanding the conditions necessary for life on other planets.
Researchers have developed a highly conductive metallic gel that can be used for 3D printing solid objects at room temperature. The gel, made from a solution of copper particles and a liquid metal alloy, forms a network that allows for electrical pathways and prevents clogging of the printer. The printed objects can change shape as they dry, a process known as 4D printing. The material is highly conductive, making it suitable for a wide range of electronic components and devices.
Scientists at Tsinghua University have developed a liquid metal coating that can transform ordinary paper into self-adhesive gadgets capable of conducting heat and electricity. The researchers successfully formulated a liquid alloy and applied it to paper using a stamping technique, eliminating the need for adhesives. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for creating lightweight, flexible smart objects and soft robots that can operate autonomously in various environments.
Ytterbium, a "strange metal" with unique electrical conductivity, has been found to have two absorption peaks for radiation instead of the usual one. Researchers exposed an alloy of ytterbium, aluminum, and boron to gamma rays to study its response to temperature and pressure. They observed charge fluctuations producing a double peak in the absorption spectrum, which may be a distinctive feature of all strange metals. The behavior of ytterbium's conductivity under cold conditions presents an anomaly that researchers hope to explain and could prove useful in the search for high-temperature superconducting materials.
