The properties of this material are similar to leather once it’s harvested and dried, and can be used to make clothing, shoes, or handbags

Process could enable biomanufacturing of 1 billion pounds of spandex each year

Researchers at the University of Manchester have made a significant breakthrough in the development of synthetic pathways that will enable renewable biosynthesis of the gas propane. This research is part of a program of work aimed at developing the next generation of biofuels.

Less than 1 percent of Earth’s water is drinkable. Removing salt and other minerals from our biggest available source of water—seawater—may help satisfy a growing global population thirsty for fresh water for drinking, farming, transportation, heating, cooling and industry. But desalination is an energy-intensive process, which concerns those wanting to expand its application.

Increased water-recycling and improved irrigation techniques among six strategies identified as key to successfully reducing global water scarcity.

A growing partnership between the University of Michigan and a company in Dexter is a model for how university-to-business ties can produce significant mutual benefits.