KAIST developed eco-friendly hollow nanofiber protective layers for lithium-metal batteries, enhancing lifespan by 750%. Made from guar gum via a water-based process, these layers stabilize interfaces, control lithium growth, and naturally decompose, advancing sustainable battery technology.     A research team led by Professor Il-Doo Kim from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering at KAIS...

A highly efficient PET alternative plastic monomer producing microbial strains were developed. These strains were based on various production strategies for five types of eco-friendly pseudo-aromatic polyester monomers that can replace existing fossil fuel-based plastics.   Currently, there has been an increase in global environmental problems caused by plastic waste. As a potential solution, biodegradable...

Oxynizer uses a bicycle pump to inject air through silica gel and zeolite filters, removing nitrogen and moisture to supply up to 50% oxygen. Its filter is reheated after 120 hours, enabling an affordable, semi-permanent oxygen provision for developing countries     Oxynizer is a portable oxygen generator designed to address the challenge of supplying oxygen in developing countries with limited electri...

The pervasive accumulation of packaging waste in the natural environment highlights the significant need for sustainable alternatives. A marine-biodegradable paper coating material was developed with cross-linked polyvinyl alcohol, enhancing packaging performance capabilities without compromising environmental sustainability, thus representing a green advance. Is there a biodegradable packaging material that ...

Prof. Sang Ouk Kim’s research team developed a Hercules artificial muscle, recognized by IUPAC as a 2023 Top 10 Emerging Technology for its performance, 17 times stronger than human muscle, with applications in wearable devices and soft robotics.     KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology), under the leadership of Professor Sang Ouk Kim from the Department of Materials Science...

Mackay icosahedrons—scientifically intriguing for their high symmetry and potential multifunctionality—were crafted beyond the typical structural limitations of soft spheres using an emulsion assembly technique.     Fivefold symmetry is an intriguing pattern observed across nature, from the petals of flowers to the starfish in the ocean. This unique symmetry is not only a visual wonder bu...