Characterization news, March 2012

New study explores how polymers go with the flow

Researchers used mechanochemistry to characterize how a polymer chain in solution responds to a sudden acceleration of the solvent flow around it.

Spangold A shape-memory effect alloy with novel applications

Organic materials for rechargeable sodium-ion batteries

Graphene can transmit high frequency electrical signals without loss

Graphene can transmit high frequency electrical signals without energy loss, outperforming any other known material, including superconductors.

Seaweed makes super-tough biomaterial

biomaterials based on seaweed-derived alginate could improve polyurethanes used to repair cardiac and vascular tissue