A textured film maximizes sunlight by generating an increased amount of red light, reducing the costs of algae production on a significant scale.
Tracing life’s origins with early Earth chemistry
What role could non-biological molecules have played in helping primitive biological and chemical systems evolve into their current, complex forms?
Micromachines destroy bacterial biofilms in hard-to-reach places
Magnetic hydrogel micromachines break up biofilms and release antibiotics, combating biofilm infections associated with medical devices.
Hydrogel vaccines could spell the end of booster shots and vaccine inequity
A hydrogel delivery system boosts single-dose efficacy and provides a potential tool to fight future pandemics and vaccine inequity.
Science in pictures
From holographic sound waves to nanobelt haystacks, this gallery gives a renewed appreciation for scientific exploration.
Testing the limits of mechanical plastic recycling
A new study looked at the extent to which plastics can be recycled using mechanical methods, finding good and bad news.
A smart color-changing sensor detects food spoilage in consumer products
Cutting-edge smart packaging uses a color-changing sensor to detect food spoilage, revolutionizing quality control and safety in the food industry.
Exploring effective treatments for hereditary hair loss
Scientists are delving into the future of hair loss treatments, from macromolecules to laser therapies and CRISPR gene editing.
One step closer to sustainable fuels with a low-cost, solar-driven photoreactor
An innovative photoreactor concept achieves commercially viable performance indicators for a broad variety of solar-driven reactions.
Tough but stretchable material could improve rechargeable lithium batteries
A tough gel electrolyte protects lithium metal anodes for safer and more efficient rechargeable batteries.