Computer models that simulate silicon chip production are helping manufacturers develop next generation transistors at 32 and 22nm nodes and beyond.The simulations look at flash annealing of doped silicon, as well as new materials, such as silicon-germanium alloys, and novel structures, such as strained silicon.

Nano-enabled coatings have been widely championed over the last decade, but, to-date, applications commercialised successfully have been small volume, high added value products. Delegates at the Nano-enabled Coatings event, held on 23 September in London, UK, believe the time has arrived for the breakthrough into large volume, mass applications.

UK researchers are exploring a new analytical framework for predicting and measuring weld induced residual stresses. This could have important implications for nuclear and aerospace applications by providing a more accurate, rapid and less costly approach to the problem using 3D eigenstrain solutions.

A novel computational approach could improve understanding of how fluids interact with solid structures such as turbine blades or aeroplanes. This would help engineers eliminate catastrophic mechanical failure caused by unstable contact.

Scientists in the USA have developed two polymers to help clean up the toxic waste left behind by oilsands mining.

A charge time and capacity record for organic and non–toxic batteries has been set by using algae, claim researchers from Uppsala University, Sweden. The work opens up possibilities for producing environmentally friendly, cost efficient, up-scalable and lightweight energy storage systems.

Mining technology is transforming waste fly ash from coal-fired power stations into cheaper and resource efficient polymer fillers, claims RockTron, based in Keynsham, UK. The firm says it has achieved a ‘world’s first’ in fly ash beneficiation.

Capsules placed on circuit boards that contain suspensions of conductive carbon nanotubes could make burnt out electronics a thing of the past. The shells are being designed to erode under conditions of high electrical potential, temperature spikes, mechanical damage or other appropriate stimuli.

A novel interlayer between the skin and foam core in sandwich structures could provide composite components with an inherent self-healing mechanism. This reinstates the backface support to prevent buckling during compression.  

Silicon chips that can emit light could be demonstrated within four years, thanks to a team of international researchers who claim to have overcome previous limitations.