Polymers and soft materials news, March 2021

Novel polymer based on marine algae

novel bio-polymer based on microalgae could offer a sustainable alternative to synthetic polymers produced from fossil fuels

Novel photonic material can turn towards the light

By combining photonic crystals with a polymer substrate, researchers have developed a photonic material that can move and fold when illuminated.

Novel polymer membrane can keep separating oil from water

A novel bio-based, fully recyclable polymer membrane for separating oil and water can be reused even after its pores are clogged.

Giant Accepted for Inclusion in Scopus

Hydrogel shells take heart from chemical reactions

A novel chemical-responsive hydrogel shell can generate dynamic morphological changes, including periodic oscillations similar to heartbeats.

Nanomesh pressure sensor at your fingertips

nanomesh pressure sensor can monitor finger pressure without any effect on sensation

Bioinspired material puts the squeeze on plastics

all-natural bioinspired composite material could offer an alternative to petroleum-based structural plastics

Polymer coating produces stronger artificial muscles

Researchers have made electrochemical carbon nanotube muscles much faster and more powerful by coating them with an ionically conducting polymer.

Freezing and salting produce tougher, stronger hydrogels

Using a two-pronged process, researchers produced hydrogels that mimic the internal structure, stretchiness, strength and durability of biological tissues.

Shape-changing hydrogel good fit for tissue engineering

Researchers have developed hydrogels that are cell-compatible, biodegradable and can change shape over time in response to water.

Read the latest published articles from Biomaterials and Biosystems