Content for Stanford.Edu

A new material could enable more efficient magnet-based computer memory

“Engineers have found a metallic compound that could bring more efficient forms of computer memory closer to commercialization, reducing computing’s carbon footprint, enabling faster processing, and allowing AI training to happen on individual devices instead of remote servers. Over …

Researchers capture elusive missing step in the final act of photosynthesis

“After decades of effort and help from SLAC’s X-ray laser, scientists have finally seen the process by which nature creates the oxygen we breathe. Photosynthesis plays a crucial role in shaping and sustaining life on Earth, yet many aspects …

Researchers take a step toward novel quantum simulators

“Some of the most exciting topics in modern physics, such as high-temperature superconductors and some proposals for quantum computers, come down to the exotic things that happen when these systems hover between two quantum states. Unfortunately, understanding what’s happening …

Stanford scientists illuminate barrier to next-generation battery that charges very quickly

“In the race for fast-charging, energy-dense lithium metal batteries, researchers discovered why the promising solid electrolyte version has not performed as hoped. This could help new designs – and eventually battery production – avoid the problem. New lithium metal batteries with solid …

Flameproofing lithium-ion batteries with salt

“Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries power phones, laptops, other personal electronics and electric cars, and are even used to store energy generated by solar panels. But if the temperature of these batteries rises too high, they stop working and can catch fire …

Shining a new light on oil-slick rainbows and other thin-layer physics

“To invent a new tool for studying how chemicals react at interfaces, researchers shoot tiny jets of oil and water at each other and illuminate them. When sunlight reflects on an oily puddle of water in a parking lot, it …

New nanoscale 3D printing material designed by Stanford engineers could offer better structural protection for satellites, drones, and microelectronics

“Engineers have designed a new material for nanoscale 3D printing that is able to absorb twice as much energy as other similarly dense materials and could be used to create better lightweight protective lattices. Science fiction envisions rapid 3D printing …

Stanford exoskeleton walks out into the real world

“After years of careful development, engineers have created a boot-like exoskeleton that increases walking speed and reduces effort outside of the lab. For years, the Stanford Biomechatronics Laboratory has captured imaginations with their exoskeleton emulators – lab-based robotic devices that help …

New 3D printing method designed by Stanford engineers promises faster printing with multiple materials

“Stanford engineers have designed a method of 3D printing that is 5 to 10 times faster than the quickest high-resolution printer currently available and is capable of using multiple types of resin in a single object. Advancements in 3D printing …

Researchers at SLAC use purified liquid xenon to search for mysterious dark matter particles

“An enormous vat of pure liquid xenon will help scientists at SLAC and around the globe learn more about the universe. Sitting a mile below ground in an abandoned gold mine in South Dakota is a gigantic cylinder holding 10 …