Nano Coatings with Bling
Nanocrystalline diamond particles are about 5 nanometers in diameter. They’re exceptionally tough and hard, which makes them promising potential additives for polymer coatings. But making polymer-nanodiamond composites that share these mechanical properties has proved challenging.
In a paper published online in the journal ACS Nano on February 4, researchers at Drexel University in Philadelphia describe a new process for making these composites. By using a technique called electrospinning, they were able to better disperse the nanodiamonds throughout the polymer. The resulting coatings are transparent, tough, scratch-resistant, protect against UV, and are thermally conductive.
The researchers coated several surfaces with the films, including the computer chip in the two images below. The image at left shows a computer chip after the composite has been electrospun onto its surface. After brief heating, the coating becomes clear, as in the image on the right.
Deep Dive
Uncategorized
Embracing CX in the metaverse
More than just meeting customers where they are, the metaverse offers opportunities to transform customer experience.
Identity protection is key to metaverse innovation
As immersive experiences in the metaverse become more sophisticated, so does the threat landscape.
The modern enterprise imaging and data value chain
For both patients and providers, intelligent, interoperable, and open workflow solutions will make all the difference.
Scientists have created synthetic mouse embryos with developed brains
The stem-cell-derived embryos could shed new light on the earliest stages of human pregnancy.
Stay connected
Get the latest updates from
MIT Technology Review
Discover special offers, top stories, upcoming events, and more.