Gallium oxide (Ga₂O₃) is a semiconductor material that could make electronic devices much more energy-efficient than current silicon-based technology. Electronic diodes require two types of semiconductor layers to function properly, negative-type (n-type) and positive-type (p-type) layers. Scientists could reliably produce n-type gallium oxide layers but struggled to create stable p-type layers because gallium oxide's crystal structure naturally resists the atoms needed for these layers. This limitation resulted in gallium oxide semiconductors with poor performance and reliability issues. Now, researchers at Nagoya University in Japan have solved this manufacturing challenge and created the first functional pn diodes using gallium oxide. Their method, published in the Journal of Applied Physics, enables the use of gallium oxide for improved semiconductors and energy efficient devices. In addition, these new pn diodes can carry twice as much electrical current as previous gallium oxide diodes. 

This research provides theoretical and practical references for the application of SOECs in CO₂ conversion. By efficiently converting CO₂ into syngas, methane, and ethylene, SOECs not only accommodate renewable energy but also facilitate carbon resource utilization, playing a significant role in promoting carbon neutrality and establishing a circular carbon economy.

Journal of Bioresources and Bioproducts reports an amino-functionalised cellulose hydrogel that harvests motion energy at 732 mW m⁻², retains 97 % output after 24 000 bends, and drives wireless handwriting and fatigue-alert systems without external power.

Led by Univerisity of Maryland researchers, this novel experiment reveals how thunderstorms affect our climate and how Earth’s atmosphere breaks down pollution. 

The Philippines, like other tropical countries, is known more for its balmy climate than for hailstorms. But a new Philippine study—the first of its kind—has found that the country’s hottest days are, in fact, more likely to produce hail.

The microscopic alliance between algae and bacteria offers rare, step-by-step snapshots of how bacteria lose genes and adapt to increasing host dependence. This is shown by a new study led by researchers from Stockholm University, in collaboration with the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences and Linnaeus University, published in Current Biology.

Ever wondered how nature’s waterproof leaves and self-cleaning surfaces could inspire new materials? A recent study in Engineering explores how starch, a common kitchen ingredient, can be used to create advanced superwettable systems for packaging, water treatment, and even food taste enhancement. Discover how this eco-friendly solution is shaping the future of material science!