Articles tagged with Plastics
Researchers have developed a process to convert recyclable plastic into high-quality lubricating oil, which can assist auto manufacturers in meeting mandated fuel economy specifications. The production of this oil is expected to be used commercially overseas, primarily in the Middle East.
A recent study found that NICU infants are exposed to high levels of DEHP, a phthalate linked to reproductive issues and other health problems. The study showed a direct correlation between the use of DEHP-containing medical products and elevated MEHP levels in infants' urine.
Researchers have identified a protein piece that can attach to polypyrrole, a synthetic polymer, allowing for the development of implantable devices that stimulate nerve growth. The breakthrough could lead to new treatments for nerve damage and tissue engineering applications.
Loo aims to increase polyaniline's conductivity by up to 10-fold, enabling applications such as flexible electronics and implantable medical devices. Her process uses a polymeric acid molecule, which increases the material's ability to dissolve in water.
Researchers found that exposure to BPA and BBP altered gene expression in mammary tissues of young rats, increasing protein production with age. The study suggests these estrogens could contribute to breast cancer development.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new family of materials that can change shape in response to light, offering potential for minimally invasive surgery and other applications. The polymers use molecular switches that bind together when exposed to UV light, allowing them to maintain their shape until the light is switched off.
Research found low doses of BPA in female rats inhibit estrogen-induced synaptic connections, affecting hippocampal development and memory. High concentrations of BPA have been reported in pregnant women's blood, potentially impacting human hippocampal development and long-term effects on children's learning ability.
Researchers at the Naval Surface Warfare Center developed a method to process contaminated plastic waste, leading to the creation of the Plastics Waste Processor. The device has been installed on over 650 Navy ships and has improved the sustainability of naval operations.
A Northwestern University team has designed organic molecules that self-assemble into ultra-thin layers for use in transistors. Their tailored molecular components reduce operating voltage and power consumption, making low-power consumption OTFTs a reality.
Researchers at PNNL have developed a process to convert corn into isosorbide, which can improve the properties of plastic materials. The technology has the potential to reduce the amount of petroleum necessary to make plastics and create new jobs for rural economies.
Researchers found a way to convert hydrogen into water using an oxygen sponge, allowing the reaction to continue until most of the starting materials are used up. This new process reduces the amount of energy needed for separation and makes the product less contaminated.
Scientists create a novel polymer, polylimonene carbonate, using limonene oxide and CO2, offering an alternative to petroleum-based plastics. The biodegradable material has characteristics similar to polystyrene, a commonly used plastic.
A new five-year project at NIST seeks to create standardized measurement methods and diagnostic probes for organic electronics. The goal is to accelerate the development of practical plastic microchips, which could enable large-area applications like wall-sized electronic murals.
Researchers have developed new, non-toxic additives for poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) to improve its fire retardancy. The additives, which rely on copper atoms, work by creating chemical crosslinks that form an inert char on the surface of PVC, helping to block flammable gases.
A Clemson University spin-off company has developed a new type of plastic made from polylactic acid derived from corn, which can replace up to 50% of chemicals used in regular plastics. This material could reduce 5 billion pounds of non-biodegradable plastics discarded annually and lower air pollutants.
Princeton scientists develop a breakthrough technique using nanoimprinting to mass-produce devices with tiny features, achieving unprecedented density and space between ridges. The method uses a mold made from a fine comb-like pattern, enabling the creation of miniature electronic circuits with improved memory capacity.
A new sensor, smaller than a dime, measures blood glucose levels by detecting changes in acidity and frequency. The device requires no internal power supply or connections outside the body, allowing users to wave their hand to get a reading.
A new, low-cost hand-held magnetic surgical tool has been developed to reduce X-ray exposure during long bone repair surgeries. The device uses electronic sensors instead of X-rays to locate screw holes, making the process precise and reducing radiation exposure for surgeons.
The Wildlife Conservation Society recently rounded up over 300 threatened flamingos in the Altiplano region, collecting data on their health and tracking population trends. The organization has been participating in a banding project for three years, working to conserve vulnerable species like James' and Andean flamingoes.
Scientists have developed a novel fabrication technique to study charge transport in organic crystals, resulting in the highest recorded mobility in an organic semiconductor. The method eliminates exposure of fragile surfaces to conventional processing, allowing for pristine crystal samples to be used for device fabrication.
Researchers at NIST quantify the problem and solution of carbon nanotube demixing, revealing flow conditions that can lead to demixing. The findings provide insight into how to process nanotubes more efficiently for various applications.
A new reference material from NIST helps researchers and implant manufacturers optimize processing parameters for crosslinking, reducing brittleness and improving wear resistance in orthopedic hip implants. The material provides precise dimensions and swelling information from round-robin tests.
Professor Behrokh Khoshnevis has developed a new machine that can produce 3D 'printouts' in plastic and metal more quickly and cheaply than existing systems. The 'Selective Inhibition of Sintering' (SIS) process uses high heat to melt only selected areas, reducing energy intensity and cost.
A surgical 'sling' made from polytetrafluoroethylene has been used to lift tissues under the chin, reducing sagging and improving skin elasticity. The procedure has shown a high patient satisfaction rate of over 90%, with no requests for removal.
Researchers have developed a method to apply nanowires to glass or plastics at room temperature, enabling the production of efficient computer chips and optical displays. This breakthrough could lead to durable consumer electronics and advanced military applications.
Research reveals that microscopic cracks on glass surface are scattered light, not dirt, and can only be cleaned away by dissolving the cracks with an aggressive solution. This discovery challenges long-held assumptions about the properties of glass.
Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have developed tiny plastic particles that can release medicine over a prescribed period, without triggering an immune response. The particles are designed to dissolve slowly in the body and cross the mucus lining of air passages, reaching their target cells underneath.
A new smart blending technique optimizes plastic materials for maximum effectiveness, enabling the creation of tougher, electrically conductive, and porous plastics. The technology, developed at Clemson University, has potential applications in food packaging, personal hygiene products, automotive uses, and even breakfast cereals.
Scientists create novel processing methods for producing organic conducting polymer circuits, leveraging micro contact printing for low-cost, adaptable, and fast production. The technique utilizes functionalized polymers that attach to surfaces via chemical reactions, overcoming conventional ink printing limitations.
Matson's work on ultra-barrier coatings has the potential to replace glass in electronic displays, enabling flexible and cheaper alternatives for cell phones, TVs, laptops, and digital watches. The American Chemical Society's Industrial Innovation Awards recognize his contributions to commercial success and improved quality of life.
Scientists discover that low levels of bisphenol A exposure in animal lab lead to highly significant increases in egg abnormalities, including aneuploidy and disorganized chromosomes. Further study is warranted due to potential human health risks.
A study by Case Western Reserve University has found that Bisphenol A (BPA) in plastic bottles can cause abnormal pregnancies in mice. The researchers discovered that even extremely low doses of BPA produced detectable effects, highlighting the potential risks to human reproduction.
Scientists at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute create computer models of proteins to integrate them into dry substances like plastic. This development could lead to new applications in the security and medical industries, such as ultra-hygienic surfaces and chemical sensors.
Scientists at UCSB and Helsinki University of Technology develop a novel material combining the favorable economics of mass-produced plastics with the properties of designer plastics. The resulting material, mostly made of polystyrene, exhibits the conducting properties of polyaniline.
A Dartmouth study found that better transportation decisions, such as driving fuel-efficient cars, could save more energy than recycling plastic and aluminum. Researchers used life-cycle analysis to measure the environmental benefits of different activities.
Vandenberg discovered isotactic polypropylene, a strong and resistant form of polypropylene used in dishwasher-safe containers and water-resistant outdoor carpets. He has since developed new biomedical polymers with potential applications in implants and medical devices.
Brookhart's research team has made new polymers by constructing metal catalysts that insert monomers in the middle of chains, resulting in branched polypropylene with improved properties. His work expands the range of available polymers, with several licensed for commercialization.
A Rochester chemist has developed a new method to activate hydrocarbons directly with small, extremely reactive metals, cutting out an inefficient middle step in the process. This breakthrough could lead to more efficient production of plastics and other products.
Researchers have discovered that forces within granular materials decrease as they slide, but are then transferred to a network of 'force chains' that increase in strength. This new understanding could improve modeling of geological systems and design of industrial devices such as hoppers.
Scientists at Ohio State University have developed a new material that can store and transfer data through the spin of electrons, enabling faster processing speeds and lower power consumption. This breakthrough could lead to instant-on computers, reduced weight, and lower manufacturing costs.
Grubbs's specialty is designing catalysts that can selectively target specific parts of molecules, critical for making pharmaceuticals. The award recognizes his work on improving the precision and control of these catalysts.
Richard W. Rees, a Wilmington researcher, has been awarded the Hero of Chemistry title by the American Chemical Society for his work on laminated safety glass technology that protects people from flying glass shards and other debris in explosions.
Researchers develop heat-sensitive polymers that change color at various temperatures, providing a safety application to prevent burns, food poisoning, and accidents. The polymers can be added to products such as plastics, paints, inks, and rubbers, enabling smart packaging that warns consumers of potential hazards.
A new company, SafeView Inc., has licensed technology from the Department of Energy's Pacific Northwest National Laboratory to detect hidden plastic and ceramic weapons. The system uses millimeter waves to generate holographic images that allow operators to screen for suspicious materials.
Agricultural plastics, such as mulch films and nursery pots, are difficult to recycle due to their varied types and dirtiness. Penn State researcher James Garthe has developed a method to convert these plastics into plastic nuggets that can be burned with coal, producing energy 20 times greater than conventional recycling methods.
General Motors researchers have developed a new generation of automobile plastics using molecule-size mineral fillers like clay. The new nanocomposites are stronger, lighter, and offer more design flexibility for automakers.
Ford researchers Ellen C. Lee and Deborah F. Mielewski discover a new process to evenly distribute silicate clay particles in plastic matrices, resulting in improved strength, lightness, and design flexibility.
Kurt W. Swogger, Dow vice president of research and development, received the American Chemical Society's Earle B. Barnes Award for Leadership in Chemical Research Management. The award recognizes his innovative approach to developing customer-specific plastics using molecular architecture, which has led to increased efficiency and suc...
Krzysztof Matyjaszewski's innovative approach to making finely crafted polymers, known as 'living polymerization,' allows for tailor-made structures and properties. His technique enables the creation of complex polymer shapes and arrangements with precise control.
Researchers at Ohio State University developed a dense plastic foam material reinforced with tiny clay particles, increasing its density and strength. The new technology aims to replace solid plastics in structural applications, making products lighter while maintaining their appearance.
A UCLA-led team of chemists and engineers has developed a transparent plastic that can mend itself when heated, offering potential use in industries such as electronics, radar and communications. The material, called Automend, retains 60% of its original strength after healing.
Scientists at Ohio State University developed a plastic material that becomes highly magnetic when exposed to blue light, but loses some magnetism with green light. The technology has potential for future applications in magneto-optical systems for writing and erasing data from computer hard drives.
Researchers at UMass challenged a 60-year-old theory on polymer crystallization, finding that lengthy polymers never achieve total crystallinity due to reaching equilibrium. This breakthrough may lead to better control of material flexibility and shed light on the protein-folding problem.
A team of researchers at Case Western Reserve University is developing computer simulated models to predict the performance of new implant designs before they are implanted into patients. They aim to uncover how damage occurs in plastic used in total joint replacements and identify potential design concerns.
Joseph R. Webster receives American Chemical Society's Industrial Innovation Award for improving thermoplastic polyester processing and stabilization, enhancing product durability and UV resistance. He also develops environmentally friendly pigment technology to color thermoplastics without chromium premetallized dyes.
Dougherty and DeBord developed a new process for producing di-t-octylhydroquinone (DOH) using two catalysts, resulting in good quality yields over short reaction times. The process also reduces the need for solvents, which can be recovered and recycled.
Researchers at Ohio State University developed a method to seal tiny plastic parts in medical devices, improving the flow of medicine and fluids through these devices. The technique, called resin-gas injection assisted bonding, alters the surface characteristics of the plastic to suit different medical applications.
Researchers at Purdue University have successfully linked two tiny structures called quantum dots to create a semiconductor-based quantum computer. The device uses quantum bits that exist in both on and off states simultaneously, enabling faster processing of information than conventional computers.
Virginia Tech researchers have made a breakthrough in creating polymers that can be reversed using heat, opening up new possibilities for thermoplastic elastomers (TPE) and novel adhesives. The team synthesized nano-phase separated polystyrene and polyisoprene based materials containing reversible linkages.
A team of researchers has developed a novel treatment for spinal cord injuries using a plastic tube filled with chemicals that promote nerve growth. The tube, designed to mimic the flexibility of the spinal cord, provides a pathway for neurons to grow and potentially reconnect severed nerves.