Nanodiamonds

Prof. Tongcang Li (left), Dr. Yuanbin Jin (middle) and Kunhong Shen perform experiments with levitated and rotating fluorescent diamonds at Purdue University

Physics

Levitating nanodiamonds spin at 1.2 billion rpm in a vacuum

Physicists have levitated nanoscale diamonds, hit them with lasers to make them flash and spun them at an incredible 1.2 billion rpm. The experiments aren’t just about creating the “world’s smallest disco” but could help the study of quantum physics.

In a new experiment, scientists have managed to use a powerful X-ray laser to convert PET plastic into tiny diamonds, similar to those that might fall on ice giant planets like Neptune

Science

X-ray laser converts plastic into diamonds, recreating Uranus rain

Scientists have turned plastic into diamonds. Using high-powered lasers, the team zapped samples of common PET plastic, which produces intense heat and pressure to form tiny diamonds that may naturally rain down on planets like Uranus and Neptune.

Are we rushing to embrace the potential benefits of nanotechnology without considering the dangers?

Science

The downside of nanotech: do tiny particles spell big trouble?

Nanotechnology promises to revolutionize practically every area of human endeavor. Already products containing nanoparticles are lining supermarket shelves, but the big question is, are they safe?