Adaptable Polymer Inspired by Sea Cucumbers

Scientists at Case Western University have made a biopolymer thatswitches rapidly between rigid and flexible states, using materialinspired by sea cucumbers. The new material softens in the presence ofa water-based solvent, and it stiffens back up as the solventevaporates. Christoph Weder, lead researcher and professor ofmacromolecular science and engineering, says that such a material maybe useful in the design of implantable electrodes able to record brainactivity over long stretches of time, with minimal scarring comparedwith conventional electrodes.

Source: technologyreview.comAdded: 11 April 2008