This month we’re diving into the minds of four of our pioneering scientists as they share their thoughts about material science and beyond.
Is there a technology that’s come online in the last year that’s got you truly excited?
I’m very excited about the advancements in special thermosetting polymers with self-healing ability. They don’t have a melting point and are therefore always solids. However, they possess the ability to self-repair after sustaining damage by not only prolonging their lifespan but minimizing waste. They can be used in a wide range of applications, from electronics to automotive components. Awesome, isn't it? - Roberto, Senior Polymer Chemist
Do you worry about the climate crisis, and if so, how do you manage that worry?
I can’t imagine not being concerned about climate change and environmental harm-it’s what guided me towards this line of work. As for managing that, I find it’s best to focus on what I can control. I find fulfillment every day in doing work that marries technology and modern life with environmentalism, rather than pitting them against each other. - Jessie, Material Scientist
Is there a big scientific question you’re particularly fascinated by, and where is the world right now on its journey to solving it?
Nuclear fusion is a research topic I am actively reading about. With an ever increasing world population, new technologies such as artificial intelligence, and our ambition to be multi-planetary, our demand for clean energy will only be increasing. I think nuclear fusion can be a great potential solution and is closer to reality than ever before. - Dayong, Director of Innovation
If you didn’t need to worry about disturbing others, what would be your ideal song to play loudly in the lab?
My favorite song of all time is Sad Machine by Porter Robinson. I’ve listened to it thousands of times, and it never gets old. - Craig, Senior Polymer Chemist