Word: tungsten
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Dates: during 1990-1999
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...build atom-size transistors or to custom-design molecules. Using an instrument called a scanning tunneling microscope and working on a surface chilled to near absolute zero, researchers Donald Eigler and Erhard Schweizer were able to get individual atoms to respond to the magnet-like tug of a fine tungsten needle. But don't expect to see atom-etching booths at your local science fair. It took 22 hours to haul 35 xenon atoms across the bumpy nickel surface. And when the temperature rose above -380 degrees F, the masterpiece flew apart...