News Chemistry

Researchers stretch for improved surfaces

By Jessica Gorman

- More than 2 years ago

Molecules naturally aligned on the polymer PDMS are loosely packed (bottom left). Stretching PDMS, attaching molecules, and then releasing the tension creates a denser arrangement (bottom right) that repels water (top) better than natural packing does. Genzer/N.C. State Univ.

Chemical engineers have devised a simple way to create better polymer-based coatings for products ranging from surgical implants to ship hulls.