Materials
The latest chemistry news and research on materials, including polymers, electronic materials, soft matter and porous materials, from the Royal Society of Chemistry's magazine, Chemistry World
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NewsExplainer: why have metal–organic frameworks won the Nobel prize in chemistry?
Susumu Kitagawa, Richard Robson and Omar Yaghi scooped the Nobel prize for their work on MOFs – here’s everything you need to know
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ResearchOne-step method uses clever precursor molecule to make graphene with regular irregularities
Films that include five and seven-membered rings offer new functionality for nanoelectronics, gas sensors and catalysts
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OpinionSolar cell progress hinges on more than just materials
Solvents are a critical factor in the quest for more sustainable energy
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BusinessSailing towards recycling composite textiles
Sustainable Extricko is using superheated steam and pressure to recycle intractable materials used in sailing
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ResearchFake microscopy images generated by AI are indistinguishable from the real thing
Materials scientists warn that raw data and replication studies are needed to tackle the looming threat of near-undetectable AI fraud
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BusinessTitanium dioxide loses EU carcinogen label after court ruling
EU products no longer have to carry warnings about cancer risk from inhalation
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NewsTeflon diet earns trio the 2025 Ig Nobel chemistry prize
The prizes that first make you laugh, then make you think reward more irreverent scientific ideas.
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ResearchTransforming plastic waste into an efficient CO2 capturing material
Upcycled amide can efficiently capture carbon dioxide from flue gases, as well as air
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FeatureKesterite solar cells break efficiency ceiling after decade-long stall
Once-promising kesterite solar technology has finally broken through its efficiency ceiling, jumping from a decade-long stall at 12.6% to nearly 17% in just three years – putting commercial viability within reach.
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ResearchThese flexible fuel cells still work after being pierced with toothpicks and cut into pieces
Power sources made from cotton yarn could power new wearable electronics
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ResearchThis deep-sea worm turns two toxins into a harmless mineral
Unusual biomineralisation strategy used for detoxification rather than reinforcing tissues
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ResearchElectron irradiation converts hydrocarbon crystals into nanodiamonds
Flawless nanodiamond synthesis that wasn’t thought possible accomplished by transforming adamantane
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WebinarExploring the frontiers of the periodic table: bismuth catalysis and its applications
Join us on 16 October to learn about state-of-the-art synthesis coming from one of the world’s leading catalysis research groups
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ResearchReflective cement could help buildings stay cool in hot weather
‘Supercooling’ material could drastically reduce carbon dioxide emissions and energy consumption associated with air conditioning units
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ResearchStereochemical editing used to tune explosive power of cage-like energetic materials
Stereoisomers found to exhibit substantial differences in density, stability and detonation performance
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ResearchA greener approach to finishing fabrics
Cottonseed oil used to confer wrinkle and water resistance
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ResearchUnrecovered byproducts from US mines could meet the country’s demand for dozens of critical materials
Huge quantities of metals and other elements are discarded each year in mining waste
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OpinionWhat happens next after the plastic treaty negotiations fail once again?
Bold action may now be needed to secure agreement on plastic pollution
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ResearchBranched polymers protect cell mimics that can interact with biological cells
Dendritic polymers encase coacervate microdroplets, enabling them to closely mimic natural cells
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NewsNegotiations to create a global plastic pollution treaty collapse again
Geneva meeting descends into chaos with hastily revised treaty text rejected by member states