An innovative addition to the chemist’s ‘toolbox’

Researchers invented a programmable clay material and “building-block” to advance discoveries in chemistry, engineering and other scientific fields

26-Jul-2023 - Microscopic materials made of clay designed by researchers at the University of Missouri could be key to the future of synthetic materials chemistry. By enabling scientists to produce chemical layers tailor-made to deliver specific tasks based on the goals of the individual researcher, these ...

New method could break down PFAS left on water treatment filters

Researchers used thermal induction heating to break down “forever chemicals” in 20 seconds

05-Jul-2023 - In a recent study, Feng “Frank” Xiao and colleagues at the University of Missouri demonstrate an innovative method using thermal induction heating to rapidly break down PFAS left on the surface of two solid materials — granular activated carbon and anion exchange resins — after these materials ...

New class of materials could revolutionize biomedical, alternative energy industries

30-Jan-2017 - Polyhedral boranes, or clusters of boron atoms bound to hydrogen atoms, are transforming the biomedical industry. These manmade materials have become the basis for the creation of cancer therapies, enhanced drug delivery and new contrast agents needed for radioimaging and diagnosis. Now, a ...

Silver nanoparticle concentration too low to be harmful in water supply

17-Oct-2016 - Silver nanoparticles have a wide array of uses, one of which is to treat drinking water for harmful bacteria and viruses. But do silver nanoparticles also kill off potentially beneficial bacteria or cause other harmful effects to water-based ecosystems? A new paper from a team of University of ...

Researchers take first steps to create biodegradable displays for electronics

19-Oct-2015 - University of Missouri researchers are on the path to creating biodegradable electronics by using organic components in screen displays. The researchers' advancements could one day help reduce electronic waste in the world's landfills. "Current mobile phones and electronics are not biodegradable ...

Super-strong, high-tech material found to be toxic to aquatic animals

Carbon nanotubes hold promise for industry but need monitoring, say researchers

27-Aug-2012 - Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are some of the strongest materials on Earth and are used to strengthen composite materials, such as those used in high-performance tennis rackets. CNTs have potential uses in everything from medicine to electronics to construction. However, CNTs are not without risks. A ...

Researchers create smaller and more efficient nuclear battery

Mizzou scientist develops a powerful nuclear battery that uses a liquid semiconductor

09-Oct-2009 - Batteries can power anything from small sensors to large systems. While scientists are finding ways to make them smaller but even more powerful, problems can arise when these batteries are much larger and heavier than the devices themselves. University of Missouri researchers are developing a ...

MU researcher uses bacteria to make radioactive metals inert

Scientist is studying bacteria that could clean contaminated water bodies across the US

10-Sep-2009 - The Lost Orphan Mine below the Grand Canyon hasn't produced uranium since the 1960s, but radioactive residue still contaminates the area. Cleaning the region takes an expensive process that is only done in extreme cases, but Judy Wall, a biochemistry professor at the University of Missouri ...

Hybrid computer materials may lead to faster, cheaper technology

MU professor receives part of $6.5 million to research nanomagnetic devices

07-Apr-2008 - A modern computer contains two different types of components: magnetic components, which perform memory functions, and semiconductor components, which perform logic operations. A University of Missouri researcher, as part of a multi-university research team, is working to combine these two ...

Breakthroughs in nanotechnology on edge of 'knowledge frontier'

03-Mar-2008 - University of Missouri scientist Kattesh Katti recently discovered how to make gold nanoparticles using gold salts, soybeans and water. Katti's research has garnered attention worldwide and the environmentally-friendly discovery could have major applications in several disciplines. While the ...