Two Russian-born scientists win Nobel Prize in physics for discovering graphene

Two Russian-born scientists won the Nobel Prize in Physics for discovering graphene, a one-atom- thick "wonder material" that may transform electronics, allowing for speedier computers and folding touchscreens.

Andre Geim, 51, now a Dutch citizen, and Konstantin Novoselov, 36, both professors at the University of Manchester in the U.K., will share the 10 million-Swedish kronor ($1.5 million) prize, the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences said today in Stockholm, according to Bloomberg.

"Since it is practically transparent and a good conductor, graphene is suitable for producing transparent touch screens, light panels, and maybe even solar cells," said the Nobel Foundation, in a statement.

"When mixed into plastics, graphene can turn them into conductors of electricity while making them more heat resistant and mechanically robust. This resilience can be utilized in new super strong materials, which are also thin, elastic, and lightweight.

In the future, satellites, airplanes, and cars could be manufactured out of the new materials," said the Nobel Foundation, InformationWeek reports.