New wood composite could replace steel in auto manufacturing
In Japan, researchers at Kyoto University are developing cellulose nanofibers strong enough to be used as auto parts but lightweight enough to improve vehicles’...
Chinese scientists on the hunt for electrically conducive silk
In China, researchers at Tsinghua University are working on various methods to make silk conductible for use in body sensors—including a plan to feed...
New microbeads concept could actually benefit oceans
In Puerto Rico, a university chemistry lab is working to create microbeads out of algae, chitosan, and iron that could remediate harmful sunscreen chemicals...
Dutch have the right formula for the bioeconomy
The Netherlands is doing a better job of nurturing early-stage industrial biotechnology companies than the United States by providing by supporting “biotechnology ecosystems,” according...
Clay-based packaging extends shelf-life
In Turkey, tests have demonstrated that a film made from polyethylene and tiny “tubes” of clay were found to extend the shelf-life of tomatoes.
A...
Beauty care lowdown: Is natural really better?
In Canada, debate is growing over whether products designated as natural or organic are actually safer and more effective.
“When I hear people say that...
Bensly sees London, France, and sustainable underpants
In Los Angeles, menswear brand Bensly is using eucalyptus-based Tencel fabric to produce T-shirts and boxers.
Bensly says its products are “softer than silk, more...
Myth Busted: Biodegradable polymers are biodegradable
In Germany, researchers at the University of Bayreuth have tested the biodegradability of common polymers in both fresh and seawater.
Led by Amir Reza Bagheri,...
Evolva readies itself for “product-driven” transformation
In Switzerland, Evolva is forecasting a big jump in product sales as it readies two major product launches for 2018.
EverSweet, a zero-calorie stevia sweetener...
Recent World Congress reveals stagnation
In Massachusetts, Lux Research outlined the central themes from the recent World Congress on Industrial Biotechnology, many of which highlighted the inherent challenges of...