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.
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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
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