Organic chemistry: Research from recent scientific journals
Expert scientists summarise some of their selected research papers from recent journal issues. Read the organic chemistry highlights from G. Richard Stephenson, University of East Anglia, UK in Issue 9 2025 of C&I magazine.
Sustainable fashion: How science is creating a better future for textiles
A recent survey found the average EU citizen bought 19kg of clothing, footwear and household textiles in 2022 – enough to fill a large suitcase each year. So, what is being done to make the fashion industry more sustainable? Jasmin Fox-Skelly reports.
Why wood could be the next wonder material, thanks to science
Chemists are finding new ways to make wood stronger, which could pave the way for new applications in sensors, satellites and even transparent wood to replace window glass, reports Lou Reade.
Researchers investigate sustainable food packaging films
Growing environmental concerns around the use of plastics have prompted research into sustainable and biodegradable alternatives for food packaging.
Taking inspiration from nature to create nanostructural colour
A group in Ireland has copied nature to generate structural colours. Colm Delaney and his colleagues at Trinity College Dublin aim to develop cheap sensors to detect changes in colour when a compound in the body or environment is present.
Octopus robotics: How animals (and plants) are inspiring new smart materials
Modern soft robotics engineers are looking to the natural world for ideas to create new, smarter, more energy-efficient robots and sensors. So far octopuses, frog cells and even plants have all provided inspiration. Anthony King reports.
Producing bioethanol from lignocellulosic biomass and microalgae
A new study has investigated the potential of integrating Parachlorella kessleri microalgae with corn stover and tree bark residues as a method for producing bioethanol.
Comment: Robotics in reskilling and transition
The rapid advance of robotics is fundamentally altering the global industrial landscape. While this promises enhanced productivity, it also raises concerns about the future of employment. As automation becomes more integrated into factories, warehouses and supply chains, the critical issue of workforce adaptation and reskilling has emerged as a paramount challenge.
Comment: Chemical recycling
Chemical recycling in Europe remains nascent mostly due to unattractive economics. The industry can achieve cost parity with virgin plastics production, but this will take 20-30 years and require over €400bn in cumulative capex. Companies have a window of opportunity to be early movers and reap material benefits.
Pharma tariff uncertainty continues
The outlook for tariffs on pharmaceuticals exported to the US remains uncertain, even as some trade deals are being agreed.