polymer – News Stories About polymer - Page 1

Birth Control
Shot for Guys
May Be Here
by 2017

Sep 10, 2014 1:42 PM CDT

Birth Control Shot for Guys May Be Here by 2017

Long-lasting Vasalgel contraceptive would require just a single injection

(Newser) - There may be another birth control option headed our way, and the guys will get to take the lead on this one. The Parsemus Foundation has tested an injectable, non-hormonal polymer contraceptive on male baboons that appears to successfully prevent pregnancy in females, Medical Daily reports. The procedure, which requires...

Lab Mistake Results in Momentous Find

New synthetic polymers are strong, light, and recyclable

(Newser) - It's a happy accident: A mistake at an IBM research lab has created "a super-strong, super-light, and super-recyclable new material," that could transform the old-school world of plastics and polymers and improve a slew of products, NBC News reports. Most of our polymers date back decades—think...

Self-Healing 'Smart Mud'
Could Replace Plastic

Jan 21, 2010 5:45 AM CST

Self-Healing 'Smart Mud' Could Replace Plastic

Researchers excited about new substance's potential

(Newser) - Japanese researchers have developed a clay-based substance they believe has the potential to become an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic. The team mixed small amounts of clay with water, a thickening agent called sodium polyacrylate, and a specially designed molecular glue, producing a gel strong enough to hold its own...

Scaffolding Gets Scientists Closer to Growing a Heart

Nov 3, 2008 10:09 AM CST

Scaffolding Gets Scientists Closer to Growing a Heart

Biodegradable frame supports stem cells, may pave way for creating whole organs

(Newser) - Scientists have developed a biodegradable scaffold on which heart tissue can be grown in the lab, possibly paving the way for the creation of whole organs, the Independent reports. In the meantime, the goal is to produce living patches for mending damaged hearts. The flexible polymer matrix ensures growing cells...

Fabric Could Power Your iPod

Feb 13, 2008 7:31 PM CST

Fabric Could Power Your iPod

Scientists discover way to derive energy from microfiber fabric

(Newser) - George Jetson, eat your heart out: Scientists have developed a microfiber fabric that generates its own electricity, which could someday provide relief for cellphone users strapped without their chargers or iPod fanatics running low on battery. The fabric, if woven into a shirt, could harness power from simple physical movement...