Polymer Chemistry
Articles tagged with Polymer Chemistry
Bismuth melanin biomaterial shields body from radiation and eases acute radiation syndrome
A team of researchers designed a bismuth-coordinated melanin material to shield against radiation and alleviate acute radiation syndrome (ARS), with promising results in mouse experiments. The material showed stronger shielding and antioxidant effects, improving survival rates from 20% to 60%.
Biochar-powered hydrogels boost solar water evaporation efficiency for sustainable desalination
Researchers developed a hybrid material combining biochar with polyzwitterionic hydrogel, achieving an evaporation rate of 3.57 kg/m²/h under standard sunlight conditions. The biochar enhances light absorption, water transport, and energy efficiency, making it suitable for seawater desalination applications.
Crab shell by-products could help regulate the marine lifetime of biodegradable plastics
Researchers find crab shell waste alters microbial communities on biodegradable plastics, reducing breakdown rate. The effect persists even without direct contact, suggesting biochemical compounds released from crab shells trigger changes in the plastisphere.
Floatable, biodegradable composite beads show promise for large-scale oil spill remediation
Researchers have created a novel sorbent made from chitosan/cellulose acetate and bentonite composites that show promise for cleaning up oil spills. The beads are floatable, biodegradable, and environmentally compatible, making them an efficient and cost-effective solution.
Review summarizes photocatalyst and biocatalyst for artificial photosynthesis
The review highlights the potential of semiartificial photosynthesis in overcoming natural photosynthesis limitations. Biocatalysts play a crucial role in this technology, enabling more efficient CO2 capture, utilization, and storage. The research aims to develop new catalysts for producing fuels and valuable substances from sunlight.
Versatile, degradable polymers through novel domino polymerization
Researchers have created a novel monomer that allows for the synthesis of poly(disulfide)s with arbitrary side-chain structures through domino polymerization. The polymers exhibit degradability in reducing environments, including biological systems, making them suitable for drug delivery systems and medical applications.
Pathways for the sustainable development of polymeric materials
The article proposes multiple routes for green development of polymeric materials, including renewable biomass resources and carbon dioxide feedstocks. It also discusses the importance of recycling, biodegradation, and designing new recyclable polymers with closed-loop chemical recycling capabilities.
Study: New system aims to detect percentage of recycled plastic in plastic products
Researchers created a new method combining scientific tests and artificial intelligence to differentiate recycled plastic from new plastic. The tool, developed by University at Buffalo researchers, can analyze samples and predict the percentage of recycled content with over 97% accuracy.
The ultimate dirt filter: 'Oxychar' offers a cheaper, smarter way to scrub toxic cadmium from farmland
Researchers develop oxychar, a highly efficient, budget-friendly alternative to traditional charred organic materials for toxic cadmium removal. The new material soaks up both agricultural ammonia and cadmium, promising a practical win for sustainable farming.
Mussel adhesion meets conductivity: new bioglue for bioelectronic implants
A conductive bioglue was developed to ensure firm adhesion and stable electrical signaling within the human body. It overcomes challenges in connecting damaged tissues or attaching bioelectronic devices, promoting muscle and nerve regeneration and stable implant stability.
Hybrid ‘super foam’: tunable, lightweight and ultra-durable
Researchers at Texas A&M University and DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory developed a hybrid foam with a 3D-printed plastic skeleton, offering tunable, lightweight and ultra-durable properties. The composite combines ordinary foam with plastic struts, allowing it to absorb more energy and withstand greater forces.
Bioprinting muscle that knows how to align its cells just as in the human body
A research team from Xi'an Jiaotong University has developed a method to align cells in muscle tissue using electric forces during electrohydrodynamic bioprinting. This breakthrough allows for the creation of living muscle tissues with tightly aligned cells, enabling the production of functional muscle constructs.
Stretchy plastics conduct electricity via tiny, whisker-like fibers
Researchers discovered that adding salt additives and water enables PEDOT:PSS to grow hair-like fibers conducting electricity. The material's stretchability and conductivity can be enhanced by adjusting the chemical makeup, making it suitable for bioelectronic devices.
Electric eel biology inspires powerful gel battery
Researchers at Penn State develop a hydrogel-based battery that mimics the electrical processes of electric eels, producing higher power densities than previous designs. The battery is non-toxic, flexible, and environmentally stable, making it suitable for biomedical applications.
Chain-like aligned boron nitride embedded in elastomer for thermal management in wearable electronics
Researchers developed a method to embed aligned boron nitride flakes in elastomer for efficient heat conduction. The composite material retains flexibility while improving thermal performance, enabling safer and more responsive wearable devices.
A self-assembling shortcut to better organic solar cells
Osaka Metropolitan University scientists have created a molecule that naturally forms p/n junctions, structures vital for converting sunlight into electricity. The new design offers a promising shortcut to producing more efficient organic thin-film solar cells.
Pioneering natural, degradable polymer capsules
A research group at Osaka Metropolitan University has pioneered a technology for preparing biodegradable polymer capsules using naturally occurring molecules. The new method produces stable, shelf-life-friendly capsules that can store target molecules and undergo photodegradation upon exposure to light.
Wearable hydrogel that tracks your body anywhere and anytime
Researchers created an ultrathin hydrogel electrode that can track vital signals without interruption, overcoming previous dehydration, freezing, and mechanical fragility issues. The new material forms a flexible layer that can withstand extreme temperatures and retain water content over time.
Impact-resistant polyurea coating that senses damage in real time
A new spray-applied polyurea-based nanocomposite sensing coating integrates covalently functionalized graphene nanoplatelets into a two-component polyurea matrix. This enhances processability, weatherability, and establishes a robust conductive network for reliable resistive sensing.
Supramolecular self-assembly with dual functions of GSH-synthesis inhibition and consumption for efficient chemodynamic therapy
A team of researchers has developed a method for preparing supramolecular prodrug assemblies to enhance chemodynamic therapy efficacy by consuming glutathione (GSH) and inhibiting its synthesis. The approach allows for the simultaneous release of dual functional molecules from self-assemblies, amplifying cellular oxidative stress.
Researchers unlock catalyst behavior that could cut emissions and stabilize supply of everyday materials
A Rice University-led team has unveiled the molecular structures on industrial catalysts that behave during vinyl acetate monomer production. The work points to catalyst designs that could reduce energy use, carbon emissions, and make global VAM production cleaner and more reliable.
Entropy engineering for ultra-soft, highly tough silicone in “burden-free” wearable electronics
Researchers create a new type of silicone elastomer with ultra-softness, ultra-stretchability, and high toughness. The material is designed to be 'burden-free' for on-skin wearables, offering excellent mechanical integrity and electronic reliability. It also exhibits excellent UV blocking properties and can block 97.9% of incident light.
Electrodes created using light
Researchers at Linköping University have successfully created electrodes from conductive plastics using visible light, eliminating the need for toxic chemicals. The technology allows for the creation of flexible electronics and biocompatible sensors on various surfaces, including skin.
New bioelectronics device based on hydrogel- elastomer conductive nanomembranes
Researchers developed a novel bioelectronic material that transforms from a rigid film to a soft, tissue-like interface upon hydration, enabling seamless integration with living tissues. The device, called THIN, has been shown to record biological signals with high fidelity and stability in animal experiments.
Korea University researchers create hydrogel platform for high-throughput extracellular vesicle isolation
Extracellular vesicles can mediate communication between cells and tissues, influencing processes like immune signaling and cancer progression. Researchers have developed a practical, scalable EV-isolation platform that operates without preprocessing steps or specialized equipment.
Atomically-tailored single atom platforms hold promise for next-generation catalysis
Researchers have developed a new approach to overcome limitations in single-atom catalysts by creating one-dimensional organic polymers capable of selectively binding metal atoms. The platform marks a major advance in single atom catalysis, enabling stronger gas binding compared to other structures.
Sticky beginnings: When life began to gel
A team of international researchers proposes that sticky, surface-bound gels may have played a crucial role in the origins of life on Earth. These primitive gels could have provided the necessary structure and function for early chemical systems to become increasingly complex. The study's findings also extend to astrobiology, suggestin...
Sweat monitoring for health tracking made possible by hydrogels
A new review highlights hydrogels as ideal for sweat sensing due to their flexibility, biocompatibility, and ability to detect biomarkers in real-time. The technology has the potential to revolutionize personal health monitoring with painless and continuous tracking of conditions like diabetes and dehydration.
Scientists develop plastics that can break down, tackling pollution
Researchers at Rutgers University have created plastics that can self-destruct at programmed speeds, offering a solution to the global plastic crisis. The biodegradable plastics are made by mimicking nature's structural tricks, allowing them to break down naturally under everyday conditions without heat or harsh chemicals.
Light-intensity-dependent transformation of mesoscopic molecular assemblies
Researchers in Japan have developed a supramolecular polymer system that can adaptively transform into different dimensional states depending on the intensity of light applied, revealing mechanisms behind these dynamic transformations using high-speed atomic force microscopy.
How plastics grip metals at the atomic scale
Researchers used molecular dynamics simulations to investigate how polyamides adhere to alumina surfaces, finding that adhesion strength depends on polymer chemistry and surface termination. The study offers practical design guidelines for selecting surface treatments and polymer types, enabling the creation of stronger, lighter joints.
UVA engineering polymer scientist wins American Physical Society’s John H. Dillon Medal
Liheng Cai has challenged long-accepted rules of polymer physics, offering new theories to explain the behavior of associative polymers and solving a conundrum that stumped scientists for nearly 200 years. His work has led to breakthroughs in designing better materials for healthcare and sustainability.
Like sculpting from within: New technique builds advanced materials out of basic plastics
Researchers at the University of Florida have developed a technique to create highly porous materials from everyday plastics by 'sculpting' from within. The new materials have potential applications in batteries, water filtration and high-density electronic storage.
Smart hydrogel mimics skin repair to accelerate diabetic wound healing
Researchers developed a composite hydrogel that integrates antibacterial, immunomodulatory, and regenerative functions to promote faster wound closure. The hydrogel demonstrated over 98% antibacterial efficacy and improved fibroblast and endothelial cell growth.
Concentration‑controlled doping turns a p‑type polymer into its n‑type counterpart
A South Korean research team has discovered a molecular-level mechanism to switch the charge polarity of organic polymer semiconductors by adjusting the concentration of a single dopant. This enables polymers to exhibit both p-type and n-type characteristics, eliminating the need for separate materials or complex device architectures.
Solid polymer electrolytes: ion-conduction enhancement and comprehensive frontiers
Solid polymer electrolytes offer a safer alternative to traditional liquid electrolytes, with intrinsic adhesion to electrodes and low interfacial resistance. The authors propose multi-pronged innovations to improve contact, reduce polarization, and prevent dendrites.
Manufacturing strategies for stretchable synaptic transistors
A research team developed a comprehensive manufacturing approach for stretchable synaptic transistors, enhancing electro-mechanical stability and learning accuracy. The architecture of devices plays a crucial role in maintaining stable electrical behavior under deformation.
Scientists discover clean and green way to recycle Teflon®
Researchers from Newcastle University and the University of Birmingham developed a low-energy, waste-free method to recycle Teflon by breaking down its strong carbon-fluorine bonds into harmless sodium fluoride. This process has significant implications for reducing environmental pollution and promoting sustainable fluorine chemistry.
New 3D printing method ‘grows’ ultra-strong materials
Researchers at EPFL have developed a novel 3D printing technique that creates ultra-strong metal and ceramic materials by infusing water-based gel with metal salts. The process results in exceptionally dense and strong constructions, suitable for next-generation energy, biomedical, and sensing technologies.
Trailblazing Young Scientists honored with $250,000 prizes at Blavatnik National Awards Gala
Three young scientists received top honors at the 2025 Blavatnik National Awards for Young Scientists, each receiving a $250,000 prize for their innovative work on critical global issues. The awards recognize exceptional scientific achievement and innovation by U.S.-based researchers under 42 years old.
AI can change how farmers water their fields from cloud to soil
An AI-driven irrigation management system developed by Texas A&M University students uses soil sensors, crop data, and weather forecasts to optimize watering. The system conserves water, reduces costs, and increases crop yields, addressing global issues of water scarcity and inequity.
Modified metal oxides with polymer zwitterions to boost organic solar cells
Researchers developed a new strategy to modify zinc oxide interlayers with polymer zwitterions, effectively passivating defects and enhancing solar cell device performance and stability. The conjugated units in the polymer zwitterions improved UV light absorption and facilitated more efficient charge extraction.
Portable, self-cleaning, electrochromic window towards enhanced solar modulation
Researchers developed an all-flexible, self-cleaning smart window that fine-tunes solar gain in real time and protects against environmental contaminants. The device's multifunctionality could accelerate green building development and address climate change concerns.
Rice scientists develop hydrogel platform for long-lasting, precision drug delivery
Researchers create peptide hydrogel that controls drug release, improving treatment adherence and efficacy for conditions like tuberculosis and diabetes. The SABER platform uses reversible chemical bonds to slow down drug release, offering a promising solution for precise delivery.
Flow-powered pollution sensor for amine detection in water
A self-powered analytical device has been developed to detect toxic amines in water using electrochemiluminescence. The device generates its own voltage from liquid flow and produces light signals to indicate contamination, making water quality testing more accessible and portable.
New generation polymers developed by KTU scientists: sustainable, self-repairing and antimicrobial
Researchers at Kaunas University of Technology (KTU) have developed new generation polymers made from renewable raw materials, with unique properties such as self-healing, shape memory, and antimicrobial effects. These sustainable solutions can be applied in various fields including medicine, electronics, and optics.
SEOULTECH researchers develop smarter, more controllable hydrogel pores
Researchers developed a new origami-inspired folding strategy for reversible actuation of hydrogel pores, integrating facet-driven folding into polygonal pores to enable programmable and predictable actuation. This strategy retained 90% of its original shape after repeated swelling-shrinking cycles, demonstrating excellent reliability.
Massive information storage via LEGO-like assembly chemistry of hydrogel cubes
Researchers at Beijing University of Chemical Technology developed a new reconfigurable information code using macroscopic hydrogels that respond to external stimuli. The system can store over 800 billion distinct configurations, opening up potential applications in smart labels, biomedical tags and secure data encoding.
Artificial intelligence accelerates the development of advanced heat-dissipating polymers
Researchers developed a machine learning model to predict liquid crystalline polyimides with high thermal conductivity, achieving 96% accuracy. The model identified six promising candidates, which demonstrated up to 1.26 W/mK thermal conductivities, accelerating the development of efficient thermal materials.
Hidden flaws in plastics electronics revealed by molecular imaging
A new study uses molecular imaging to uncover structural defects in conjugated polymers formed through aldol condensation, a versatile and environmentally friendly synthesis method. By understanding these defects, researchers can develop more sustainable materials for electronics, computing, and other applications.
New acid-base bifunctional catalyst efficiently produces key lithium-ion battery material
Researchers have developed an acid-base bifunctional catalyst that efficiently produces ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC), a crucial component of lithium-ion batteries. The catalyst, [DBU+[IM-]@UiO-66, achieves high EMC yields and selectivity with minimal loss of yield over six reuse cycles.
Breakthrough engineered enzyme for recycling of PET bottle and blended fibers at moderate temperatures
Researchers have engineered a novel enzyme, PET2-21M, to enhance the biodegradation of bottle-grade polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastics. This breakthrough offers a sustainable and efficient alternative to conventional recycling processes, achieving significant improvements in catalytic activity and substrate efficiency.
Pusan National University researchers unveil game-changing UV-fueled shape-shifting and shape-fixing smart materials
Researchers at Pusan National University have created novel materials called disulfide-based covalent adaptable networks (DS-CAN) that can change, fix, and retain their shape reversibly using magnetic fields and ultraviolet light. These materials enable UV- or heat-assisted shape fixation after deformation, which is also reversible.
Polymer power: FAMU-FSU Engineering researchers help design next-generation polymer blends
Researchers design polymer blends to accelerate battery development and identify key temperature thresholds for stability. The study validates a model predicting behavior at different temperatures, enabling more efficient materials design.
Cal Poly Chemistry professor among three U.S. faculty to be honored for contributions to chemistry instruction
Dr. Phil Costanzo, a Cal Poly chemistry professor, has been recognized with the Jack Flack Norris Award for his contributions to chemistry education. He co-founded the Macromolecular Alliance for Community Resources & Outreach (MACRO), a joint service committee that provides freely accessible educational resources for polymer chemists.
Aligned stem cell sheets could improve regenerative therapies
Researchers have developed a technique to grow stem cells into single sheets, increasing the secretion of signaling proteins that help repair tissue and regulate the immune system. This new approach could improve stem cell-based treatments for conditions such as heart disease, liver damage, and autoimmune illnesses.
Paper outlines catalytic process to make eco-friendly plastics from natural polymer
A new study by Colorado State University outlines a path to creating advanced, recyclable plastics using natural poly(3-hydroxybutyrate) (P3HB). The breakthrough method involves stereodivergent catalysis, which enables the production of enantiopure PHAs with improved properties for various applications.
New and highly efficient recycling technology to turn used tires into raw materials for rubber and nylon
A new recycling technology has been developed to turn used tires into raw materials for rubber and nylon, achieving high selectivity of up to 92% and a yield of 82%. The process uses dual catalysis to convert waste rubber into valuable chemicals.
Al-Mg@PVDF and Al-Si@PVDF composites with enhanced combustion and energy release characteristics
Researchers developed AI-Mg@PVDF and AI-Si@PVDF composites with enhanced combustion efficiency, demonstrating superior performance compared to pure metal particles. The study explores the effect of different metal fuel systems on aluminum alloy-PVDF MICs, revealing two distinct pathways for modulating combustion properties.