Nanopreservatives do not bend and do not tear

Scientists have invented thinner and stronger condoms

Anatoly Alizar, Geektimes 

A group of scientists from the Australian Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology at the University of Queensland presented their latest development: a new material for the manufacture of condoms. It turns out that if you use a special additive, the thickness of latex is reduced to 45 microns without losing the strength of the product.

The secret to increasing the strength of latex is an additive made of nanocellulose, it is extracted from the spinifex prickly grass, which grows in Africa, Australia and some Asian countries.

On average, when using the additive, there is an improvement in tensile strength by 20% and a decrease in volume by 40%, said Professor Darren Martin, lead author of the scientific paper. He believes that the refinement of the material will reduce the thickness of the condoms by 30%, and even more.

 
Dr. Nasim Amiralian stretches latex with the addition of nanocellulose 
(a picture from the press release of The University of Queensland “Native grass could be key to super-thin condoms" – VM).

Scientists have developed a technological process for extracting nanocellulose fibers from biomaterial. To do this, chopped grass is mixed with sodium hydroxide until a soft mass is obtained – just like in the manufacture of paper. Then the nanoflocks are stirred with water and impregnated with a latex solution. Cellulose strengthens rubber in the same way that steel bars strengthen concrete.

In such condoms, sensations will become more natural, while maintaining a reliable barrier between partners, scientists say.

Portal "Eternal youth" http://vechnayamolodost.ru 12.02.2015