With seabirds trapped in multipack drink rings, and mid-ocean islands of indestructible rubbish, the idea that plastics could play a big part in a more sustainable future world might seem far-fetched. However, new smart plastics may yet rescue the reputation of this all-consuming 20th century material.
Research into so-called ‘cool plastics’ for cars and buildings could reduce the need for air conditioning and improve energy efficiency. It’s not just environmentalists who will be pleased. New plastic bioelectronics devices that interface with your body could underpin future prosthetics or even grow artificial hearts.
Whilst there is significant potential in environmental and health applications of these new materials, efforts are still required to design plastics of desired functions. One line of enquiry is to explore the potential of organic materials that can offer the same flexibility, softness and light weight but can control the flow of light, or transport electronic or ionic charges. Natalie Stingelin is a Professor of Functional Organic Materials at Imperial. In her inaugural lecture she will address the latest work to turn around the reputation of plastics.
Research into so-called ‘cool plastics’ for cars and buildings could reduce the need for air conditioning and improve energy efficiency. It’s not just environmentalists who will be pleased. New plastic bioelectronics devices that interface with your body could underpin future prosthetics or even grow artificial hearts.
Whilst there is significant potential in environmental and health applications of these new materials, efforts are still required to design plastics of desired functions. One line of enquiry is to explore the potential of organic materials that can offer the same flexibility, softness and light weight but can control the flow of light, or transport electronic or ionic charges. Natalie Stingelin is a Professor of Functional Organic Materials at Imperial. In her inaugural lecture she will address the latest work to turn around the reputation of plastics.
