New Shape-Shifting Polymer Holds 1,000 Times Its Own Mass - Watch Out Plastic Man!

Tech Times ^ | February 11, 10:24 PM | James Maynard,

[BenLurkin]

One challenge facing researchers was learning how to control crystallization of the polymer. As similar shape-shifting materials are stretched or cooled, atomic strands of polymer molecules re-align, driving the object to stay in the "temporary" alignment. This process makes it more and more difficult to bring the object back to its "relaxed," original form.

Individual "linkers" were used to connect the molecules, reducing the effects of crystallization in the new polymer. By carefully controlling the placement of the linking chains, researchers were able to precisely direct the turning point of the material.

When the new polymer is removed from the heat source (such as a human body), the material immediately returns to its original configuration.

...

The capability to lift 1,000 times its own mass means that a device constructed from 1/28th ounce (about the weight of a typical paper clip), could lift a one-liter bottle of water.

[patriot08]

Wow. Interesting.

[Dr. Bogus Pachysandra]

Plastic Man. My favorite comic hero! In my music career, My nic was Plastos.

[ProtectOurFreedom]

Lift 1,000 times its own mass? Ha...try leaving the cookies out and you'll really see somebody lifting a heavy load...

[Svartalfiar]

The capability to lift 1,000 times its own mass means that a device constructed from 1/28th ounce (about the weight of a typical paper clip), could lift a one-liter bottle of water.

Am I missing something here? I'm pretty sure a paper clip is strong enough to hook and lift a bottle of water..?

[a fool in paradise]

[BubbaBasher]

[SunkenCiv]