The future of polymers

Alberto Salleo is an expert in the long, chain-like molecules known as polymers. The world relies on polymers and the most common are in plastics. Salleo is now working on a new generation of organic polymers made of Earth-abundant materials that could lead to flexible electronics that can biodegrade or be easily recycled. These polymers could be game-changers, Salleo tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.

Episode Reference Links:

• Stanford Profile: Alberto Salleo
• Alberto’s Lab: Salleo Research Group

Connect With Us:

• Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website
• Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon
• Connect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook

Chapters:

(00:00:00) Introduction

Host Russ Altman introduces guest Alberto Salleo, a professor of materials science and engineering at Stanford University.

(00:03:02) Defining Polymers

A fundamental definition of polymers, emphasizing their structure as long molecules composed of repeating subunits.

(00:04:43) Everyday Applications of Polymers

The commonplace polymers that people encounter daily and their broader impacts.

(00:05:42) Organic Polymers and Electronics

The unique properties of organic polymers, their applications in electronics and potential for biodegradability.

(00:07:52) Advanced Polymer Applications

The development of flexible electronics using organic polymers, including the challenges and current research status.

(00:11:27) Neuromorphic Computing

The role of polymers in neuromorphic computing, highlighting how their properties could mimic brain functions.

(00:14:42) Human-Brain Interface and Computing Applications

The dual potential of polymers in interfacing with human brains and creating new generations of computers.

(00:18:04) Emerging Research and Technologies

The integration of electron microscopy from biology to study polymers and their structures.

(00:22:22) Electron Microscopy and Cryo-EM Techniques

Advanced electron microscopy techniques, such as cryo-EM, to study polymers.

(00:26:19) Electrochemistry and Sustainable Batteries

The application of polymers in electrochemistry, particularly in creating high-density, recyclable batteries.

(00:29:26) Conclusion

Connect With Us:

Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website

Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon

Connect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook