Surfaces

We've seen surfaces that kill microbes on contact, but scientists in the UK have recently gone a potentially more effective route. They've created maze-like surface patterns that keep bacteria from sticking around to establish biofilm colonies.

Engineers have developed a new system that can move objects without physical contact. The technique involves ultrasound waves acting on specialized surfaces to push or pull objects in set directions, which could help in manufacturing and robotics.

Scientists have developed a way to produce a web of quantum entangled photons using a far more simple setup than usual. The key is a precisely patterned surface 100 times thinner than paper, which could replace a roomful of optical equipment.

Surfaces in contact with salty water usually end up with a corrosive layer of salt caked on. Now, engineers at MIT have made these minerals so easy to remove that they often just fall off on their own – by forming “crystal critters.”

Researchers at MIT have developed a smart curved surface that can morph at will to reduce drag, generating a series of small, evenly spaced dimples that make it resemble the outside of a golf ball.

Scientists have unlocked the secret to scorpions' ability to withstand sand-blasting, and applied it to man-made materials.

Researchers have created a nanoscale coating for surgical equipment, hospital walls, and other surfaces which safely eradicates MRSA.

Researchers have devised a method of coating various surfaces with monolayers of gold nanoparticles, in just ten minutes.

A nanoparticle-based coating that can be easily applied to impede the buildup of ice on solid surfaces could help prevent the havoc caused when ice collects on roads, power lines and aircraft.