pentagonal cross-section, researchers have reproduced theoretically predicted tilings and determined the mechanisms that allow the transition from one structure to another. The tiling of a plane by regular pentagons has …
Material design is one of the major driving forces to enhance the intrinsic light harvesting ability of a photocatalyst. Herein, the design of black TiO2−x/CuxO with chiral-like structures where Pt …
The understanding of the mechanism underlying the so-called unconventional high temperature superconductivity is one of the most difficult scientific challenges. Today, the most consensual approach suggests that the pairing of …
Researchers have synthesized crystals of elongated gold bipyramids and have described their optimal packing in three-dimensional assemblies. This result, at the crossroads of chemistry and geometry, offers prospects for the …
Currently only amateur astronomers observe Mars in a global and continuous way when the planet is closer to the Earth (“opposition”). A part of these enthusiasts has been aggregated to …
The teaching of experimental physics at the Master’s level has recently undergone a notable evolution thanks to the setting up of platforms equipped with state-of-the-art equipment, similar to that used …
Liquid-crystal (LC) displays exploit a physical phenomenon called the Fréedericksz transition. This effect is only observed with “nematic” LCs which are fluids of rod-like molecules aligned in the same direction. …
The story of liquid crystals is that of transgression of frontiers and of breaking of common beliefs. Indeed, liquid crystals were discovered by a biochemist, Friedrich Reinitzer, who shared his …
Nanoparticles can assemble in periodic structures, like atoms, called supercrystals. There are many applications for these materials (from catalysis to detection) but they require regular assemblies with as few defects …
Mankind’s relationship with fibres goes back thousands of years, but in the last century we have moved beyond natural plant and animal-based yarns (silk, wool) to develop stronger, more versatile …
