Mechanical properties features, July 2016

Scientists uncover the story behind ‘oobleck’

Scientists have uncovered the mechanisms that cause a mixture of cornstarch and water known as ‘oobleck’ to switch between a liquid and a solid.

Biodegradable plastics: from product to end-of-life

Korean researchers investigate degradation of commercial materials in soil and seawater

Precipitates in alloy make space for both strength and ductility

Scientists have increased the strength and ductility of an alloy by introducing tiny precipitates into its matrix and tuning their size and spacing.

Challenges and promises of lithium metal anode by soluble polysulfides in practical lithium–sulfur batteries

Moth eye inspires antireflective coating

Moths’ eyes inspire design of antireflective coating for solar panels, smartphones and tablet computers