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C&EN Materials Chemistry

The chemistry of glue – in C&EN

It’s back to school season which means it’s time to stock up on classroom supplies, including glue. This month’s Periodic Graphics in C&EN takes a look at what gives some of the main types of adhesives their stickiness! Click through the the C&EN site to view the full graphic.

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Chemistry History Materials Chemistry

Today 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 the nylon rope trick, in which nylon can be produced in a beaker at room temperature – a demonstration which is still used in classrooms today. In addition to this she is the […]

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Chemistry in the News Materials Chemistry

What’s the new 12-sided £1 coin made of?

Today the new £1 coin is released in the UK. I threw a quick graphic together to take a look at what’s known about its composition and why it’s being introduced. 

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Materials Chemistry

How 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 from the University of Hull to make this graphic, which takes a look at the answers to these questions! It accompanies a piece by Mark in The Conversation, which is reproduced below.

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Materials Chemistry

The Composition of Oscar Statuettes

With the Oscars coming up this weekend, we’ve already taken a look at some of the chemistry you can find at the movies. Here’s a quick look at the composition of the Oscar statuettes awarded to winners, which has undergone a change as recently as last year – check out the graphic to learn more!

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C&EN Inorganic Chemistry Materials Chemistry

Why Lithium-Ion Batteries Catch Fire – in C&EN

In this month’s Periodic Graphics in C&EN, we’re looking at the chemistry behind the recent news stories of lithium-ion batteries in some devices catching fire. You can see the full graphic over on the C&EN site. Also, for more lithium battery chemistry, head over to the recent RealTimeChem Week graphic which looked at some ways in […]