Tender morsels for microbes
Article Abstract:
The microbial storage polyester Poly/(R)-3-Hydroxybutyrate~, which forms in intracellular granules, displays unexpected mechanical properties. Soft and easily degradable in vivo, it becomes a stiff, tough fibre after extraction. Either some biological process keeps the polymer plastic in vivo, or the particles are too small to crystallize, due to surface effects. Further research on how the bacteria keep this polymer flexible even at 150 degrees Celsius below its melting point would be useful for developing tough coatings.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1992
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Rough guide to the nanoworld
Article Abstract:
Nanotechnology promises to simplify and minimize many electronic devices currently in use. Nanotechnology may be used to develop tough ceramic or mouldable materials. One major stumbling block to the extensive use of nanotechnology, however, is the tendency of nanoparticles to exert stronger attractive forces as they get smaller. To overcome this difficulty, researchers need to focus their efforts to manipulating the surface chemistry of substrates.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1996
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Silk and sequence
Article Abstract:
The research of scientists Trabbic and Yager has established that synthetic silk and natural silk thread have the same crystalline properties. Evidence suggests that the drawing process has a greater impact on beta-sheet formation than the inter-chain primary sequence. Trabbic's work is surprising since the genetic sequence was expected to create synthetic polymers with different properties.
Publication Name: Nature
Subject: Zoology and wildlife conservation
ISSN: 0028-0836
Year: 1998
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