Science!
Next step, field testing with some parkour people
========
Scientists have developed a fluid that turns into a strong
sticky fibre when shot out of a gadget to lift objects several times its weight – a breakthrough inspired by comic book superhero
Spider-Man.
Researchers have long sought to create
strong fibres that could be deployed as tethers, inspired by the silk secreted by
moths,
spidersand several other insects.
But developing such fibres with the stiffness, elasticity and adhesive properties of spider silk has
been a challenge – until now, researchers at Tufts University say.
Fortified with the right additives, a silk moth protein, called fibroin, shot through a narrow needle can form a tough sticky fibre, according to a new “accidental breakthrough” described in
Advanced Functional Materials. “I was working on a project making extremely strong adhesives using
silk fibroin and while I was cleaning my glassware with acetone, I noticed a web-like material forming on the bottom of the glass,” study co-author Marco Lo Presti said.…….
https://www.independent.co.uk/news/science/spider-man-web-shooter-gadget-real-b2633365.html