“Never Get Wet” Wonder of Nanotech Fabric

Researchers from the University of Zurich have developed a new fabric that never gets wet. The fabric can be submerged in water for two months and still remain dry to the touch. The secret to this incredible water resistance is the layer of silicone nanofilaments, which are highly chemically hydrophobic. The spiky structure of the 40-nanometre-wide filaments strengthens that effect, to create a coating that prevents water droplets from soaking through the coating to the polyester fibres underneath.
A similar combination of water-repelling substances and tiny nanostructures is responsible for many natural examples of extreme water resistance, such as the surface of Lotus leaves.
Not only could the fabric create a self-cleaning clothing; according to preliminary experiments, it reduces drag in water by 20%. (hint Michael Phelps)

Source:
www.gizmodo.com
www.newscientist.com

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Earth 911

Do you want to recycle, but don't know where to take your cans or bottles? Click the link below and type in what you have as well as your city or zip code to find a recycling center near you. Now there are no excuses!

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Modern Kitchens from the 40's, 50's, and 60's

I came across these images of ‘kitchens of tomorrow’ through various websites. It’s interesting to see what was considered modern in the 40’s, and where we thought we were going to be in the next 100 years.


When one is designing for today it isn’t always a bad idea to take a look at what was classic/modern in the past. In fact, it is how most design is done -- to take design cues from an existing item, and recreate them to make something else that is unique, interesting, and exciting.





Check out the built-in foot pedals for the faucet.



See the video below for a modern kitchen from the 60's.



Thanks to:
www.treehugger.com
www.dwell.com
www.images.google.com

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