A chemical spider that spins a polymer thread using a simple catalyst could drive a nanomotor, according to researchers at Pennsylvania State University, US. Ayusman Sen and colleagues say that these nanomotors have potential applications in the deposition of polymers within the channels of microdevices for instance. More Spiders, Grubb’s and polymer-powered nanomotors.
polymers
Alternative Agriculture - The debate over genetically engineered crops rages on, but other technologies offer new hope for sustainable farming. The Genes of Parkinsons Disease - Parkinson’s cases with genetic origins are shedding light on the cellular mechanisms of the disease, bringing researchers closer to a cause — and perhaps a cure New nanomaterials unlock […]
What’s happening in the world of chemistry, Robert Slinn filters the latest news for Reactive Reports. Voiding defects: New technique makes LED lighting more efficient - Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) are an increasingly popular technology for use in energy-efficient lighting. Researchers from North Carolina State University have now developed a new technique that reduces defects in […]
One of the important components of the extracellular matrix is collagen, which comprises the major structural protein component of higher organisms. However, it remains a major challenge to emulate the unique structural and biological properties of native collagenous biomaterials in synthetic analogues. Consequently, numerous opportunities exist for synthetic collagens in biomedical applications as extracellular matrix […]
A way to toughen up the latex particles used to make emulsion paints has been developed by UK chemists. The approach involves adding tiny slivers of clay armor to make the particles more hard wearing and fire resistant. Until now, latex emulsion paints have been made by adding a soap-like surfactant molecule to allow the […]
Temperature-controlled “triple-shaped plastics” that can change shape from one form to another, then another, have been developed by researchers in Germany and the US. Such materials might find use as switches and actuators in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and in medicine as intelligent stents for treating blocked blood vessels. Scientists at the GKSS Research Centre of […]