A new ‘space skin’ has been developed to protect satellites against conditions beyond our atmosphere. The lightweight nanocoating comprises a buffer polymer layer made of poly(p-xylylene) and a diamond-like carbon superlattice layer.
A smart contact lens has been developed for monitoring and control of intraocular pressure (IOP) in glaucoma sufferers. Glaucoma is a common eye condition often caused by fluid building up in the front of the eye, increasing pressure inside the eye and potentially damaging the optic nerve connecting the eye to the brain. High IOP is an indicator of glaucoma, which left untreated can lead to blindness.
Researchers in the US have discovered a liquid crystal elastomer that can suddenly leap high into the air when heated. The snapping of this layered liquid crystal could find interesting applications in soft robotics or in physically responsive touch screens.
A UK project is under way to convert industrial waste gases into the chemical ingredients needed to make surfactants essential to many consumer products. The Flue2Chem collaboration aims to show how 15 to 20m t of carbon dioxide emissions could be cut annually.
Researchers in Australia have developed a strategy they hope can help repair damaged hearts following a heart attack.
Electrolysis of abundant seawater is a promising way to generate sustainable or ‘green’ hydrogen, by harnessing renewable energy sources such as wind or solar. However, seawater electrolysis is still in early development because of electrode side reactions and corrosion.
A new light therapy shows promise as an alternative to conventional antibiotics. Australian researchers have shown that it can eradicate some of the world’s most notorious bacteria.
Australian researchers have identified the complex lifecycle of a methane-consuming microorganism vital for maintaining the Earth’s climate.