117 articles from FRIDAY 8.10.2021

Photon-phonon breakthrough

New research has uncovered a novel way to combine two different states of matter. For one of the first times, topological photons -- light -- has been combined with lattice vibrations, also known as phonons, to manipulate their propagation in a robust and controllable way.

A rare feat: Material protects against both biological and chemical threats

Researchers have developed a versatile composite fabric that can deactivate both biological threats, such as the novel coronavirus that causes COVID-19, and chemical threats, such as those used in chemical warfare. A material that is effective against both classes of threats is rare. The new material also is reusable. It can be restored to its original state after the fabric has been exposed to...