Chemistry History – Carothers, Condensation Polymerisation, & Nylon
On this day in 1896, Wallace Carothers was born. Listed by C&EN magazine in their recent list of scientists who should have…
View ArticleThe Chemistry of the Euro 2016 Football
This year’s European Championships are now well under way in France, and there’s already been some great football on show. It might…
View ArticleThe Chemistry of a Football Shirt – Euro 2016 Edition
With Euro 2016 in full swing, it seemed a good time to update this look at the chemicals that make up your average football…
View ArticleHow Chemistry Can Make Your Ironing Easier
Ever wondered why your clothes crease after being washed, or why some crease more than others? I collaborated with Professor Mark Lorch…
View ArticleToday in Chemistry History – Stephanie Kwolek and Kevlar
Today marks the date of birth of Stephanie Kwolek, the US chemist who discovered the widely used polymer Kevlar. She also developed…
View ArticleWhat are Lego bricks made of, and why is treading on them so painful?
Lego is one of the most popular and instantly recognisable childhood toys out there. Have you ever wondered what those bricks are…
View ArticleThe chemistry of the World Cup
The 2018 World Cup kicks off today! Here’s some of the chemistry you can look out for over the next month; polymers…
View ArticleThe materials science of cycling – in C&EN
May was National Bike Month, and at the end of June this year’s Tour de France kicks off, so what better time…
View ArticleThe chemistry of a football shirt – World Cup 2022 final
With the World Cup final taking place over the coming weekend, here’s an updated graphic on the chemistry of a football shirt,…
View ArticleWhat is swimwear made of and why can it fade and stretch? – in C&EN
Hitting the swimming pool this summer? Swimwear relies on a range of materials to keep you comfortable and prevent it from breaking…
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