645441 external_news 1615925884 1615925884 The reason it's a surprise? Most known materials expand upon x-ray irradiation. Yet cadmium cyanide contracts, new research shows. The researchers behind the work say the phenomenon, called negative x-ray expansion, could lead to radiation being used as a design tool for functional inorganic materials. Angus Wilkinson, Professor and Associate Chair for Operations and Undergraduate Programs in the School of Chemistry and Biochemistry, wasn't part of the research team, but is an expert on negative thermal expansion materials, and his thoughts on this development are included. Wilkinson also has a joint appointment with the School of Materials Science and Engineering. 

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