Despite some high-profile examples in retail, active and intelligent
packaging has never really broken into the European mainstream.
Technology and packaging writer Paul Gander asks why this is, and how
one major initiative is hoping to change that.
Integrating electronic sensors and recording devices into a
high-performance surfboard offers a chance to measure and study surfers’
techniques in ways not previously possible.
Perceptions that the UK is lagging behind or is non-existent in the field of space exploration could not be more wrong. Guy Richards is on a mission to find out more.
As the medical field awaits new methods to enable fast and efficient
treatment, the development of a multifunctional, mutilayered, nanovessicle, drug delivery system is highlighted
As interest in packaging materials that extend food shelf-life grows,
Barry Park of the UK Nanotechnology Knowledge Transfer Network explores
the potential for using nanotechnology to help reduce food waste.
Team MAST has been delivering the UK Ministry of Defence’s (MOD’s) low to medium maturity materials and structures research since November 2007. This article presents case studies from that work - coatings to lower solar heat absorption, self healing of fibre-reinforced polymer composites and integrated damage resistance in composite structures.
The EU aims to meet 20% of its energy needs from renewable sources by 2020. Organic photovoltaics — solar cells made from plastics — could be one promising avenue. They take the form of a flexible, light film that can be easily attached to other materials and adapted to different colours and designs. This has led to potential commercial applications in the construction industry, where plastic cells could be used as a thin film on roofs, windows and facades. Moreover, they could feature in foldable chargers for mobile phones and other gadgets on car roofs, or in clothes.
Nanotechnology development in the UK is at a critical phase. The Chairman of the Institute's Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology Group takes a look at the industry and its goals for the future.
