Contrary to computer simulations, the tiny size of nanocrystals is no safeguard from defects. Studies at Berkeley Lab’s Advanced Light Source show that dislocations can form in the finest of nanocrystals when stress is applied.

Read the News Release

Stress-induced deformation of nanocrystalline nickel reflects the dislocation activity observed by researchers using a radial diamond-anvil-cell x-ray diffraction experimental station at ALS Beamline 12.2.2 . (Image courtesy of NDT Education Resource Center)