Charting the Nuclear Age
The author, Frank Close, is ideally suited to delve into this multifarious topic as he is both a distinguished physicist as well as a prolific writer of books inspired by physical issues. He has published over 200 research papers and is currently professor emeritus of Theoretical Physics at Oxford University and a Fellow of the Royal Society.
Waste, not wanted
The author, Alexander Clapp, is an investigative journalist based in Greece who has published reports in a variety of leading publications, including The New York Times, The Economist, The London Review of Books and The Guardian Long Read. His incisive reporting has been widely recognised by numerous journalism awards. Waste Wars is his first book.
Stretchable hemp plant polymer could be plastic replacement
Plastic made from hemp – a non-psychoactive type of cannabis – could be a renewable replacement for plastics derived from fossil fuels, such as polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Unlike most plant-based plastics, US researchers have found their hemp version could be melted and stretched into different shapes but could also cope with hot water.
Business digest: Chemistry industry updates
The latest business digest for C&I Issue 6 2026 with all the latest mergers and acquisitions in the chemical industry.
Quantum’s promise for chemistry
Chemicals, along with pharmaceuticals and medical products, could be among the key beneficiaries of the rise of quantum computing. ‘Quantum computing is no longer just an emerging technology,’ says the 2026 Quantum Technology Monitor published by McKinsey Technology.
Blood test and brain testing could help screen for dementia risk
A finger-prick blood test combined with online brain testing – all done from home – could revolutionise dementia diagnosis, according to a new study led by the University of Exeter. UK. Such tests offer a low cost, scalable way of identifying people who may be at higher risk of dementia and who should be offered further checks.
Applied chemistry highlights: Degradable polymers, perovskites and more
Nigel P. Freestone from the University of Northampton discusses selected research papers from recent journal issues for Issue 6 2026 of C&I magazine.
SCI at 145: A look at the early years of SCI
SCI is celebrating 145 years since its formation in 1881. Over that time the application of science for the benefit of society has always been at the core of its mission. Neil Eisberg looks back at the foundation and early years of SCI.