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ALS Work Using Scattering/Diffraction

These techniques make use of the patterns of light produced when x-rays are deflected by the closely spaced lattice of atoms in solids and are commonly used to determine the structures of crystals and large molecules such as proteins.

 

Superhard Materials at the Nanoscale: Smaller is Better

In the superhard material, rhenium diboride, smaller grain size leads to greater yield strength (i.e., the amount of stress tolerated before permanent deformation). Because such transition-metal borides are extremely hard, metallic, and can be synthesized at ambient pressure, they have exciting potential for use in next-generation cutting tools. Read more »PPT-icon-35 PDF-icon-35

Two-dimensional perovskite templates for durable, efficient formamidinium perovskite solar cells

When the lattice-matched 2D perovskite BA2FAPb2I7 (red) is incorporated into a yellow-phase FAPbI3 matrix (yellow), the 2D crystallites present a perovskite-like surface, which serves as a template for the FAPbI3 to convert to its photoactive phase (black). The resulting phase-stabilized FAPbI3 shows substantially improved optoelectronic properties and exceptional stability under 85°C and sunlight. Read more »

A Cleaner Way to Produce Ammonia

A cavity made from linked rare-earth metals, such as zirconium and titanium, can convert abundant molecular nitrogen (N2) into useful nitrogen compounds, including ammonia or tris(silyl)amines, at room temperature. Read more »

How Bulky Molecules Improve Next-Generation Solar Cells

Adding “bulky” organic molecules earlier in solar-film synthesis slows crystal growth, leading to the formation of a protective surface layer that improves durability and efficiency. These next-gen materials could revolutionize solar-cell technology, offering increased efficiency, lower cost, lighter weight, and flexible solar modules. Read more »PPT-icon-35 PDF-icon-35

Surtsey Volcano: A Rare Window into Earth’s Oceanic Crust

Surtsey, a very young oceanic island in Iceland, emerged through explosive volcanic activity in 1963. Utilizing various techniques, including x-ray microdiffraction at the ALS, researchers gained unique insights into the transformation of volcanic glass to form mineral cements in the basaltic rock of underwater volcanoes. Read more »

New Insights Lead to Better Next-Gen Solar Cells

Perovskites show great promise to reduce the costs of solar power but are not yet durable enough to be commercially viable. Researchers used simultaneous characterization techniques to understand why a simplified fabrication process works so well, providing key insights to nudge perovskites closer to commercialization. Read more »

Bifurcation of High- and Low-Energy Electrons in Microbial Metabolism

A class of chemical reaction found only in biology, electron bifurcation channels two electrons from one donor to two separate acceptors, with one electron elevated in energy at the expense of lowering the energy of the second. Researchers used the ALS to study this process in a microbial protein involved in this bioenergetic pathway. Read more »

The Effects of Diabetes on Spinal-Column Biomechanics

Researchers found that type 2 diabetes induces earlier onset of plastic (nonrecoverable) deformation in intervertebral discs by impairing the biomechanical behavior of collagen. A greater understanding of the underlying causes of tissue failure in diabetes—a growing problem worldwide—is important in helping to prevent and treat symptoms. Read more »PPT-icon-35

How Processing Affects Structure in Composite Nanotube Yarns

Using the ALS, researchers found quantitative correlations between processing parameters and the structure of ultrafine, polymer-reinforced carbon-nanotube fibers. The work will facilitate the production of high-strength materials, including those needed for positioning target capsules for fusion research at the National Ignition Facility. Read more »PPT-icon-35 PDF-icon-35