MIT researchers have developed a new fiber, dubbed OmniFibers, that could potentially be used to help regulate breath, reports Ray White for Mashable. “When sewn into clothing, the fiber can sense how much it’s stretched. It then gives tactile feedback to the wearer via pressure, stretch or vibration.”
Fast Company reporter DJ Pangburn spotlights how researchers in the Mediated Matter Group have created polymers derived from organic materials that are designed to decompose. Pangburn explains that “the group’s biopolymers are designed to decompose upon reaching the end of its product life cycle, returning to the earth instead of being destined for a dump.”
MIT researchers have developed a new 3-D printing method that allows users to alter the printed object, writes Amelia Heathman for Wired. The new printing method enables users to “add polymers that alter the material's chemical composition and mechanical properties.”
In a Scientific American article about polymers, Mark Peplow writes about Prof. Jeremiah Johnson’s research on how polymers could be used in drug delivery. “Sequence-controlled polymer could provide a more predictable biological effect, because every strand would be the same length and shape, and its chemistry could be carefully designed to assist its drug cargo,” writes Peplow.
David Pogue of the PBS show NOVA examines Professor Paula Hammond’s work developing a new type of vaccine that delivers a DNA patch via tiny microscopic needles. Using DNA as the vaccine is a “very unique but also very powerful” approach, Hammond explains.
Writing for The Boston Globe, Kevin Hartnett reports on how MIT researchers have developed a new technique to help curb counterfeiting. The researchers have designed nanoparticles that can be used to determine the authenticity of items.
“Scientists have developed a new microscopic barcode that can be embedded into currency, credit cards, and industrial packaging,” writes Wired reporter Helen Shen of a new development from MIT researchers that allows nanoparticles to distinguish between genuine and counterfeit goods.
MIT researchers have developed a technique that allows nanocrystals to distinguish between genuine and counterfeit goods, reports Wired reporter Liat Clark. The research could have applications in the sale of luxury goods and electronics, as well as vaccine quality control.