Sunday, April 15, 2012

The Jetsons & Pestalotiopsis Microspora



Polyurethane is a unique material that offers the elasticity of rubber combined with the toughness and durability of metal. Polyurethane has been used to make just about everything from furniture to garden hoses to truck bed liners. Urethanes have replaced metals in sleeve bearings, wear plates, sprockets, rollers and various other parts and were first anticipated back in the 80s by Mr. Spacely



Having manufactured filter frames filled with polyurethane, I know how difficult the material is to break down. Until now...

Pestalotiopsis microspora 




A group of students, part of Yale's annual Rainforest Expedition and Laboratory with molecular biochemistry professor Scott Strobel, ventured into the jungles of Ecuador, and found a polyurethane-eating fungus.  


Looks like we'll be able to clean up our own mess for a change...




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