Science Magazine Podcast Leaf-based computer chips, and evidence that two early human ancestors coexisted
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Nov 28, 2024 Kevin Hatala, an associate professor specializing in paleoanthropology at Chatham University, dives into groundbreaking discoveries about early human ancestors. He discusses fossil footprints from the Turkana Basin, revealing that Homo erectus and Paranthropus boisei coexisted, shedding light on human evolution. Additionally, there’s an intriguing segment on using cellulose from leaves for sustainable electronics, which could revolutionize circuit board production and significantly reduce electronics' carbon footprint.
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Circuit Board Sustainability Challenge
- Traditional circuit boards are incredibly tough, lasting thousands of years, and made of materials like glass fibers and epoxy plastics.
- These materials present a sustainability challenge due to their longevity and the harsh processes involved in their creation and disposal.
Inspiration from Nature
- Researcher Rakesh Nair was inspired to use leaves for circuit boards after observing a magnolia tree.
- He realized that leaves, being biodegradable and ubiquitous, could offer a sustainable alternative to traditional materials.
Leaf-Based Circuit Board Creation
- The researchers skeletonize leaves, preserving their stable vein structure, and coat them with a bio-derived polymer.
- This creates a leaf-based circuit board.