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 Salleo
• Alberto’s Lab: Salleo Research Group

Connect With Us:

• Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything Website
• Connect with Russ >>> Threads or Twitter/X
• Connect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X

Chapters:

(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