Polymer Chemistry podcasts

Mariana Kneppers, Frankie Macpherson and Phillip Broadwith discuss allegations about manipulated antibody-validation images in Thermo Fisher Scientific's catalogue and the questions they raise for research integrity. They also examine the technical and commercial difficulties facing chemical recycling of plastics.

Hosted by Mariana Kneppers

Nature journalists discuss a chemical route that converts PVC waste into motor lubricant and engineered yeast that produces a potential cancer drug.

Luca Pellegrino and Gabriele Intermite discuss a light-responsive synthetic skin inspired by cephalopod camouflage and specialised polymers used in protective clothing. Leonardo Maccari interviews Ion Turcanu about digital twins for autonomous and remote driving, connecting materials research with an applied technology discussion.

Hosted by Luca Pellegrino, Gabriele Intermite

Melissa and Jam explain how hairspray combines a propellant, solvent and polymers to produce an aerosol that holds hair in place. The episode follows the formation of a fine mist, the behaviour of the polymer film and the formulation trade-offs involved, then compares hairspray with gels and mousses.

Hosted by Melissa, Jam

Neil Withers and Rebecca Trager discuss concerns about US research funding and the molecular basis of wool’s useful properties. The episode connects the chemical structure of the fibre with its flame resistance, elasticity and moisture absorption, and considers why these properties matter for textile choices and sustainability.

Hosted by Mariana Kneppers

Sophia Chen interviews Matt Dickerson of the Air Force Research Laboratory about manufacturing nanofibrous ceramics with additive methods. The discussion explains how block copolymers direct preceramic polymers into fibers, followed by heating that removes the block polymer and converts the precursor to ceramic. Compared with electrospun mats, printing offers control over component geometry. Ceramic springs illustrate repeated deformation without degrading their mechanical properties, with possible applications in catalysts, batteries and high-temperature components.

Hosted by Sophia Chen

Mariana Kneppers, Patrick Walter and Neil Withers compare competing cathode materials for electric-vehicle batteries and the tradeoffs among cost, safety and performance. They also discuss a photocatalyst that uses spent car-battery acid to help convert plastic waste into useful chemicals.

Hosted by Mariana Kneppers

Melissa and Jam recount Stephanie Kwolek’s discovery of Kevlar and explain the polymer chemistry behind its strength. The discussion covers rigid aromatic structures, hydrogen bonding and the organization of polymer chains into strong fibres. It connects these molecular features with protective equipment and other applications.

Hosted by Melissa, Jam

Melissa and Jam explain the colour-changing wetness indicator in diapers. The episode connects absorbent polymers with acid–base chemistry, conjugated molecular structures and interactions with light, showing how a change in chemical conditions can produce a visible shift in colour.

Hosted by Melissa, Jam

Alexander Sandtorv discusses the useful properties of plastics and the environmental problems created by persistent plastic waste. Conversation in Norwegian.

Donna Blackmond discusses why biological molecules favour a single handedness and how that asymmetry might have emerged. The homochirality discussion begins at 6:18. The episode also covers antiparasitic medicines recognised by the 2015 medicine Nobel prize, blood-based estimates of time since death, Matt Gunther’s interview with chemistry laureate Tomas Lindahl about DNA repair, polymer additives designed to reduce aviation-fuel fires, and carbon quantum dots produced from urine.