Researchers create nanoscale sensors to better see how high pressure affects materials

Researchers at Iowa State University have developed new nanoscale technology to image and measure more of the stresses and strains on materials under high pressures. The technology consists of a series of nanoscale sensors inserted into diamonds, which are used to exert high pressures on tiny material samples. The technology allows researchers to image, measure, and calculate six different stresses – a more comprehensive and realistic measure of the effects of high pressure on materials.