Researchers develop new polymer that stretches 40 times its length without losing strength

Researchers at the University of Virginia have created a new type of polymer that can stretch up to 40 times its original length without losing strength. This design challenges a 200-year-old principle that stiff materials cannot also be flexible. The new polymer features a unique "bottlebrush" structure, allowing it to maintain both stiffness and stretchability. This innovation could lead to advancements in medical devices, soft robotics, and wearable electronics, addressing limitations faced by traditional polymers. The polymer can be customized with different materials for specific applications, such as creating flexible gels for medical use. This breakthrough opens up new possibilities for materials in various fields, from prosthetics to advanced robotics.