Materials Science

Chemistry

Here’s how to make flip-flops biodegradable

Innovative flip-flops made from an algae-based plastic decompose in soil or compost. The comfy shoes also avoid use of fossil fuels.

Animals

The diabolical ironclad beetle is nearly unsquishable

The diabolical ironclad beetle is an incredibly tough little creature. A peek inside its exoskeleton reveals what makes it virtually uncrushable.

Tech

This artificial skin feels ‘ghosts’ — things you wish were there

Engineers have developed a wearable device that simulates the sense of touch. It may benefit robotic surgery and deep-sea exploration.

Materials Science

Analyze This: Insect shells could help builders on Mars

When mixed with rocky soil, a compound called chitin makes a strong material. It could be pulled from the shells of insects used for food.

Tech

‘Frozen smoke’ could protect electronics from annoying static

A fluffy material made from cellulose nanofibers and silver nanowires can protect electronic devices by blocking more than 99.99 percent of disrupting interference, a new study reveals.

Climate

Let’s learn about solar power

Solar power is a way to harness energy from the sun, and lessen our reliance on fossil fuels.

Chemistry

How to recycle ‘nonrecyclable’ plastics

A new process can convert some nonrecyclable plastics into a type that now can be reused. That could greatly cut down on wastes sent to landfills.

Materials Science

Will bacterial ‘wires’ one day power your phone?

An accidental discovery helps scientists generate electricity out of thin —but humid — air with bacteria-made protein nanowires.

Chemistry

Let’s learn about batteries

Many things in our lives rely on batteries. Here’s how scientists are working to make new ones — and make existing batteries safer.

Physics

Shape-shifting cuts give shoes a better grip

With pop-out structures inspired by kirigami and animals, a shoe sole goes from flat to spiky to boost friction on slippery surfaces such as ice.

Chemistry

Scientists Say: Polymer

Polymers can be natural or man-made, but they are all big molecules made up of smaller units linked together.

Plants

Silk-based microneedles may help treat diseased plants

Engineers have invented silk microneedles to inject medicines into plants. One day farmers might use drones to dart their sick plants with meds from the air.