ALS researchers, in collaboration with software and nanofabrication small businesses, developed a way to improve the accuracy of instruments that measure the surfaces of x-ray mirrors. The work significantly improves the quality of the data needed for the fabrication and optimal performance of advanced x-ray beamlines and space telescopes. Read more »
ALSNews Vol. 422
December 9, 2020
From Stripes to Skyrmions in a Surprising Material
Researchers showed that tiny bubbles of ordered spins (skyrmions) can be induced to form in a material previously considered incompatible with skyrmion formation. The discovery opens up a new class of material systems that exhibit technologically desirable nanoscale features attractive for spintronic applications. Read more »
Microstructures Explain Beetle Exoskeleton Strength
Using microtomography and other techniques, researchers identified the exoskeletal toughening mechanisms that explain the crush resistance of the aptly named diabolical ironclad beetle. The observations could be applied in developing tough, impact- and crush-resistant materials for joining dissimilar materials. Read more »
New Insights into Lithium-Metal Surface Reactions for Next-Generation Batteries
In this work, researchers studied how CO2 gas modifies the chemical composition of lithium-metal surfaces. A better understanding of the interactions between lithium and surrounding gases will help design stabilization strategies and move from lithium-ion technology to high-energy-density technologies based on lithium metal. Read more »
Newly Discovered Photosynthesis Enzyme Yields Evolutionary Clues
Scientists have discovered a primitive form of rubisco, a photosynthesis enzyme that has helped shape life on Earth. Detailed information about its structure, determined using complementary techniques at the ALS, will help scientists understand how carbon-fixing organisms oxygenated the atmosphere and how modern plants evolved. Read more »
Janice Krueger, Senior Business Manager
Coming from the Office of the Chief Financial Officer, Janice Krueger is no stranger to the Laboratory. She’s excited to get closer to the science by joining the ALS community. Read on to see how she’ll stock her office when we get back on site. Read more »
ALSHub Makeover: New Portal Experience for Users
The Advanced Light Source (ALS) will replace the current ALSHub before the holidays. Preview the new portal, learn how to link your ORCiD and ALS accounts, and learn how this will enable remote access in the future. Read more »
New UEC Members for 2021
Welcome to the new Users’ Executive Committee members for 2021! Rourav Basak (UCSD), Eric Meshot (Lawrence Livermore National Lab), and Inna Vishik (UC Davis) will be joining the UEC in January. Read more »
Demolition Day: Building 7, Last Bastion of “Old Town,” Makes Way for the Future
On Saturday morning, November 28, 2020, a demolition crew made quick work of de-constructing Building 7, a 75-year-old two-story wooden structure adjacent to the Advanced Light Source (ALS) and the last holdout from a cluster of buildings in the area known as “Old Town.” Read more »
December 2020 Awards and Achievements
Congratulations to the ALS team members on your many accomplishments and contributions! Read more »