‘Al dente’ fibers could make bulletproof vests stronger and ‘greener’ – via phys.org
Bulletproof vests and other super-strong materials could soon become even tougher and more environmentally friendly at the same time with the help of extra firm, or “al dente,” fibers. Researchers report in ACS’ journal Macromolecules an innovative way to spin high-performance polyethylene fibers from natural fats, such as oils from olives and peanuts.
These materials, which are powerful enough to stop speeding bullets, can also be used for many other tasks that require strength. They recently played a key role in lifting a sunken ferry from a delicate ecosystem off the coast of Italy. The fibers also can serve as sails to catch wind, ropes for climbing and tying, and thin, sturdy surgical sutures that ensure wound healing. But making fibers for these applications with today’s commercial processes has drawbacks. For example, one of the methods requires large amounts of solvents that are flammable and toxic. The research group led by Theo Tervoort and Paul Smith from ETH Zurich wanted to find a more environmentally friendly route to produce these ultra-strong fibers.
The researchers replaced the hazardous solvents with natural, safer alternatives, including extra virgin olive oil, peanut oil and stearic acid, which is a substance found in animal and vegetable fats. Their new approach was up to 250 percent more efficient than current methods. And resulting fibers were up to 2 times stronger than a current commercial version. With a nod to the culinary connection, the researchers dubbed their novel product al dente fibers.
The Latest on: Al dente fibers
via Google News
The Latest on: Al dente fibers
- The Benefits of Hearts of Palm Pasta and How It Compares to Other Varietieson July 28, 2022 at 1:20 pm
These plant-based spaghetti-like noodles are popular among the low-carb crowd, but runners should know a few key nutrition facts before going all in on them.
- Healthy pasta recipes for people with diabeteson July 28, 2022 at 9:14 am
Complex carbohydrates contain fiber, vitamins, and minerals and get ... Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until the pasta is al dente. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Cook the pasta according ...
- 10 Easy-To-Eat Snacks For Baby Just Starting To Eat Solidson July 20, 2022 at 6:00 am
It does not matter if foods are considered breakfast, lunch, or dinner staples, they can make perfect snacks for babies.
- How Long To Cook Fresh Pasta So It Always Comes Out Al Denteon July 15, 2022 at 12:39 pm
If you opt for a whole grain pasta, WebMD reports that it can even be a great source of fiber, and could help ... to three should achieve the perfect al dente consistency, per Spizzico Italian ...
- The 8 Best Low Carb Noodles for 2022on July 13, 2022 at 5:00 pm
A favorite among the Weight Watchers community, this pasta from the Al Dente is made using wheat products ... When shopping, look at carb counts and fiber content first. Then check out the amount ...
- 12 Types of Legumes You Should Be Cooking & Eating Year-Roundon July 1, 2022 at 10:59 pm
have an al dente texture that’s well-suited for salads and stand-alone side dishes. Commonly found in Mexican and Tex-Mex fare, these cholesterol-free and protein-rich beans are high in fiber and ...
- 12 Types of Legumes You Should Be Cooking & Eating Year-Roundon July 1, 2022 at 9:50 pm
have an al dente texture that’s well-suited for salads and stand-alone side dishes. Commonly found in Mexican and Tex-Mex fare, these cholesterol-free and protein-rich beans are high in fiber ...
- Orecchiette With Escarole, White Beans and Toasted Garlicon June 23, 2022 at 5:37 am
I was surprised to learn recently that regular pasta, cooked al dente, has a moderate glycemic ... the deep flavors in the dish and is full of fiber and antioxidants, but feel free to use regular ...
- ZENB INTRODUCES FIRST-EVER SPAGHETTI MADE FROM 100% YELLOW PEASon June 14, 2022 at 8:03 am
This rising star of the legume category requires less water to grow and adds nutrients to the soil it grows in, while providing plant-fueled nutritional benefits with a classic al-dente pasta ...
via Bing News
