For the first time, light is used to specifically design defined molecule chains

Process enables creation of mechanical components with functionality, such as surgical pins that change color with strain

There are multiple benefits to wrapping food in plastic, but they come at a cost

‘Goldilocks’ membrane is just about right

The new material is based on polymer hollow fibers treated to retain their structure—and pore sizes—as they are converted to carbon through pyrolysis

Microscopic damage eventually leads to failure in polymers and composite materials, but it is difficult to detect without the aid of specialized equipment

Researchers at the UPV/EHU-University of the Basque Country are modifying surface properties of materials to obtain specific properties at a lower cost

Environmentally-friendly battery is long-lasting and high voltage

The research could help automakers meet automotive recycling regulations that have been adopted in Europe and could be on the way to the United States

"It's an exciting finding from the standpoint of basic science, in that we've found a new polymer phase and have identified a method for inducing it," said researcher