Understanding transformations of non-equilibrium materials is a key open scientific question. Here the pathway by which different polar supertextures undergo dynamical correlations and collectively transform into a metastable supercrystal state is revealed experimentally and theoretically over seven orders of magnitude timescale.

The microstructure of alkali metals in anode-free cells is currently unknown. Here, using a combination of focused ion beam and electron backscatter diffraction, this morphology is investigated, with in situ scanning electron microscopy showing dynamic grain coarsening during electrodeposition.

Electrons in solids carry orbital angular momentum in diverse non-equilibrium situations. This orbital current is often overlooked when considering electronic transport. Here we discuss how recent studies of orbital current are enabling more opportunities for technological advancements rooted in angular momentum.

The practical application of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) requires robust and scalable synthesis of these atomically thin materials and their heterostructures. This Review discusses the key challenges, current progress and opportunities in the controllable synthesis of TMD-based heterostructures, superlattices and moiré superlattices.

Zero-elastic-energy modes drive the self-sustained locomotion of a liquid crystal elastomer torus across various environments.

All-solid-state sodium-ion batteries are promising candidates for grid-scale energy storage, but they require superior solid-state electrolytes (SSEs). Here sodium-ion SSEs based on dual-anion frameworks of oxychloride are studied and found to show high ionic conductivity and electrochemical oxidative stability with mechanical softness.

Electrochemical properties of organic mixed ionic–electronic conductors depend on their microstructure in operational ionic environments. The microstructure of a model organic mixed ionic–electronic conductor across multiple length scales in both dry and hydrated states, as well as its evolution on hydration, is revealed using cryogenic four-dimensional scanning transmission electron microscopy.

A framework is presented to automate the design of flexible metamaterial structures that can execute desired nonlinear dynamic tasks and have reprogrammable functionality.

Understanding transformations of non-equilibrium materials is a key open scientific question. Here the pathway by which different polar supertextures undergo dynamical correlations and collectively transform into a metastable supercrystal state is revealed experimentally and theoretically over seven orders of magnitude timescale.

The microstructure of alkali metals in anode-free cells is currently unknown. Here, using a combination of focused ion beam and electron backscatter diffraction, this morphology is investigated, with in situ scanning electron microscopy showing dynamic grain coarsening during electrodeposition.

By precisely controlling the phases in materials with reduced dimensionality, the material properties can be tailored, leading to enhanced performance and multifunctionality.

Electrons in solids carry orbital angular momentum in diverse non-equilibrium situations. This orbital current is often overlooked when considering electronic transport. Here we discuss how recent studies of orbital current are enabling more opportunities for technological advancements rooted in angular momentum.

Inspired by non-trivial band topology and the variety of correlated electronic phases in moiré superlattices formed in van der Waals materials, scientists are finding alternative material platforms to exploit the rich phenomena arising from the twist-angle degree of freedom.

The recent landslide election of Labour promises a reset in how UK research is perceived and funded by government.

The generation of attosecond pulses has opened the door to probing electron dynamics at sub-atomic scales. Beyond atomic physics, this field is envisioned to also have a decisive impact on condensed-matter physics, chemistry and biology.