Vitamin K analogues boost neuron formation
Researchers in Japan have chemically modified Vitamin K to boost its neuron formation capabilities. This could act to replenish neurons lost in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s disease. The study synthesised 12 variants of Vitamin K compounds with side chain modifications
Strong, biodegradable plastics made from bamboo
A new method to produce strong, biodegradable plastic from bamboo has been proposed by Chinese researchers. They say the bioplastic compares well with oil-based plastics in strength, processability, and thermal stability and can biodegrade in soil within 50 days.
Bridging the life sciences skills gap with tech
A UK Government medicines manufacturing workforce scheme aiming to bridge a significant skills gap in the life sciences sector, has delivered ‘overwhelmingly positive’ first results.
Capturing CO2 from seawater to make bioplastics
A system to capture carbon dioxide (CO₂) from seawater and convert it into biodegradable plastic precursors shows promise as a sustainable way to produce industrial chemicals.
Using 2-D nanoflakes in cancer treatment
A collaboration between the University of Texas, Austin, US, and the University of Porto in Portugal developed a light-based cancer treatment by irradiating specially developed nanoflakes.
Chemical industry outlook: Will it be profits or problems?
Chemicals companies need to rethink their strategies in the face of global headwinds, as the industry races towards a polarised future with some sectors and regions winning out, and others struggling unless they make big changes.
Greener and more sustainable printed circuit boards
A new type of printed circuit board (PCB) made by UK-based JIVA Materials could offer a greener, more sustainable circuit board than those used currently in consumer devices.
Carbon capture - using coffee grounds and plastic waste
Researchers from the United Arab Emirates have recently patented a technology which uses coffee and plastic waste materials to capture carbon dioxide (CO₂) with potential for use in a wide range of industrial processes.
3D printing technique grows metals and ceramics in hydrogel
A group in Switzerland has pioneered a 3D printing technique that grows metals and ceramics inside a water-based gel. A hydrogel consisting of around 50% polymer is printed as a template and then soaked in water with metal salts that move into the gel. The metal salts are precipitated as metal oxides or metal inside the template once a chemical reagent is added. The cycle is repeated between five and ten times to steadily increase the metal load in the gel template.
Europe's chemicals industry: 'We're at the eleventh hour'
A new report has set out the structural pressures that are eroding the competitiveness of the European chemicals industry, as the chairman of Ineos warns that action is needed ‘or there won’t be much of a European chemical industry left to save.’