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Advanced paper could be foundation for inexpensive biomedical and diagnostic devices

Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology create a new type of paper that repels a wide variety of liquids, including water and oil, using the 'lotus effect'. The modified paper could be used as a foundation for inexpensive biomedical diagnostics and provide an improved packaging material that is recyclable and sustainable.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalACS Applied Materials & Interfaces·DateMay 28, 2013

Nanocrystal-coated fibers might reduce wasted energy

Researchers have developed nanocrystal-coated glass fibers that can generate electricity when exposed to heat, potentially recovering 10% of the energy wasted in US industries. The technology also enables solid-state cooling without compressors or refrigerants, making it suitable for use in garments and industrial applications.

SourcePurdue University·JournalNano Letters·DateApr 17, 2012

Mast from classic racing yacht holds one of the keys to sustainable biofuels

A team of international experts has described the detailed structure of cellulose fibres in wood, crucial for developing strong, sustainable composite materials and second generation biofuels. The research reveals that enzymes can bind to specific surface areas on the cellulose fibres, making it easier to break down into glucose.

SourceUniversity of Nottingham·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateNov 24, 2011

Why carbon nanotubes spell trouble for cells

Researchers at Brown University found that carbon nanotubes enter cells tip-first and at a 90-degree angle, often causing repeated inflammation. The team's study suggests that understanding how nanomaterials interact with cells is crucial for designing products that help cells rather than harm them.

SourceBrown University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 18, 2011

Scientists unravel the mysterious mechanics of spider silk

Researchers deciphered the molecular structure behind spider silk's remarkable mechanical properties, discovering that soft amorphous subunits contribute to its elasticity and crystalline subunits determine its maximal toughness. The study's findings may aid in designing artificial silk fibers with improved performance.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMar 1, 2011

Scientists unravel the mysterious mechanics of spider silk

Researchers have uncovered the key to spider silk's incredible strength and toughness, revealing a serial arrangement of crystalline and amorphous subunits that outperforms random structures. This breakthrough may lead to the design of artificial silk fibers with similar properties.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateMar 1, 2011

Cracking a tooth

Scientists use atom-probe tomography to map millions of individual atoms in a sea creature's tooth, revealing organic/inorganic interfaces. This breakthrough opens up possibilities for tracking fluoride in teeth and cancer, osteoporosis drugs in bone, and designing new materials with improved properties.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalNature·DateJan 12, 2011

Bricks made with wool

Researchers in Spain and Scotland created bricks with wool fibres that are 37% stronger than conventional bricks, reducing environmental impact. The new material is made from clay, alginate, and sheep's wool, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional construction materials.

SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalConstruction and Building Materials·DateOct 5, 2010

Designer threads: New insight into protein fiber assembly

Researchers have gained new insight into protein fiber assembly, providing a potential route to temporal control of fibers with future applications in biotechnology and nanoscale science and medicine. By manipulating conditions, they were able to demonstrate the ability to manipulate fibrous structures with some precision.

SourceCell Press·JournalBiophysical Journal·DateApr 20, 2010

Breakthrough in industrial-scale nanotube processing

Researchers at Rice University have made a breakthrough in industrial-scale nanotube processing, creating a method to produce pure carbon-nanotube fibers that could lead to advances in materials science and nanoelectronics. The process uses chlorosulfonic acid as a solvent, enabling the efficient production of high-quality nanotubes.

SourceRice University·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateNov 2, 2009

High tech for bicycles

Researchers at Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft have developed a functionally-integrated bicycle seat post made from carbon fiber composite materials, offering noticeable ride comfort and reduced weight. The innovative seat post uses laminated springs to absorb shocks, providing a smoother ride for cyclists.

New techniques create butanol

Scientists at Washington University in St. Louis have created a more efficient method for producing butanol from lignocellulosic biomass, offering a promising solution to the world's energy needs. The new technique uses a mixed culture of microbes to convert plant biomass into butyrate, which is then converted into butanol.