Gamma-ray bursts represent the most violent and energetic phenomena observed so far in the Universe. These energy explosions, intermittently appearing in the cosmic night for billions of years, release a colossal amount of energy in just a few seconds, often greater than that emitted by the Sun over its entire lifetime. Lasting from a few … Read more
The enigma of {{strong|dark energy}} has fascinated astrophysicists for several decades. First observed with the discovery of a {{strong|cosmic acceleration}} in the expansion of {{strong|the universe}} at the end of the 20th century, this mysterious force challenges the classical knowledge of modern {{strong|cosmology}}. Constituting about 70% of the total content of the universe, as revealed … Read more
Since the dawn of modern cosmology, dark matter has intrigued researchers with its fundamental role in the structuring of the universe while remaining practically elusive. This mysterious substance, which accounts for about 85% of the total mass of the invisible universe, profoundly influences the movement of galaxies and the evolution of large cosmic structures. Yet, … Read more
Gravitational waves embody a major breakthrough in the understanding of the universe. These subtle oscillations of the fabric of spacetime, predicted over a century ago by Albert Einstein’s general relativity, resonate through the universe with imperceptible cosmic vibrations. Their detection has opened a new window onto extreme astrophysical phenomena, such as black hole mergers, which … Read more
In a world where technological innovation is profoundly transforming all industrial sectors, self-healing materials are emerging as a revolutionary solution to address the major challenges related to sustainability and infrastructure maintenance. Even today, these smart materials offer the prospect of automatic healing of cracks, calling into question traditional methods of repair and maintenance. Integrating cutting-edge … Read more
Technical ceramics represent a silent revolution at the heart of modern industries. Their ability to combine extreme resistance, durability, and precision makes them essential players in the development of innovative solutions. Used for a variety of applications ranging from aerospace to biomedicine, these advanced materials outperform traditional materials like metals and polymers. Their unique properties … Read more
Photonic materials embody a revolution in the mastery of light, driven by major scientific and technological advancements. Since the discovery and design of the first structures capable of influencing the propagation of light, research in this area has continued to grow. These materials, often made up of sophisticated periodic lattices, allow for precise and unprecedented … Read more
Ferrofluids captivate with their unique alliance between the fluidity of a liquid and the powerful magnetic forces of a solid. These suspensions composed of ferromagnetic nanoparticles immersed in a carrier liquid reveal astonishing reactivity when subjected to a magnetic field. The ability of these magnetic liquids to transform, to be magnetized while maintaining their stability, … Read more
For several decades, metallic glasses have garnered increasing interest within the scientific community and technology industries. These materials, derived from alloys formed through rapid solidification processes, break the tradition of classic crystalline structures by adopting an amorphous atomic organization. This disordered structure gives metallic glasses a unique combination of characteristics, including mechanical, optical, and thermal … Read more
Advanced materials shape the modern world with an unceasing quest for lightness and performance. Among them, aerogels hold a remarkable place, representing a fascinating paradox: a solid almost as light as air, endowed with extreme porosity and excellent thermal insulation capabilities. Initially developed in the 1930s, these nanostructured materials now reveal revolutionary potential across numerous … Read more