Stanford Engineering
12 July 2024
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. Episode Reference Links: Stanford Profile: Alberto SalleoAlberto’s Lab: Salleo Research GroupConnect With Us: Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters: (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 Connect With Us: Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website Connect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / Mastodon Connect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
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