Category CONSUMER FIRST

LIQUID WOOD?

German scientists have developed what could be a solution to the chemical laden, non-biodegradable and possibly carcinogenic toxin known as….. plastic. Norbert Eisenreich from the Fraunhofer Institute for Chemical Technology in Pfinztal, Germany and his cronies have invented a substance known as Arboform, or to us right brained folks – liquid wood. Without getting knee deep in chemistry, the substance is a mixture of paper waste (real wood – lignin) and other natural goodies to create a granulate material that can be melted and molded.

“The final product can resemble highly polished wood or have a more matted finish and look like the plastic used in most household items.”

Aside from having less harmful chemicals, it is also quite biodegradeable and recyclable.

Read more here.

“We are one step closer from actually being able to send our kids to school with legos to play with and legos for lunch.”

by Gerard Blanton Brand Futurist The Republik Corporal Creative Ops

Photo Credit: © Associated Press

VACCINE FOR SKIN CANCER IN 5 YEARS

Good News For The Fair-Skinned: The Scientist Who Developed A Vaccine For Cervical Cancer Is Working On One For Skin Cancer

Professor Ian Frazer, of the University of Queensland, said tests of the vaccine had proven successful on animals and that human trials could begin next year. Mr Frazer, who delivered his findings to the Australian Health and Medical Research Congress, said a vaccine for children aged 10 to 12 could be available in five to 10 years. The jab would protect against squamous cell carcinoma, the second most common skin cancer, but not the more deadly melanomas.

Read more here

“Will you get the skin cancer vaccine?”

by David Avis Brand Futurist The Republik Corporal Creative Ops

Photo Credit:
Sunbathers sprawl on Nice beach, France | © Associated Press

OLED TECHNOLOGY LIGHTING THE WAY

Scientists have developed a new machine that prints sheets of light.

The sheets are illuminated by OLED (organic light emitting diodes). OLED’s are beginning to be used in TVs and cell-phone displays, but big names like Siemens and Philips are interested in using OLED technology in everyday lighting sources.

Read more here.

“I’ve always wanted a lighted floor in my house like in the movie Saturday Night Fever. Sounds like I might be able to afford my dream soon. Now where’s my affordable flying car?”

by David Smith The Republik

Photo Credit: Michael Kanellos via CNET News.com

YIN/YANG MEDICINE

Alternative medicine meets conventional medicine. The Johns Hopkins Integrative Medicine and Digestive Center, which opened Sept. 2, is the latest indication that alternative medicine is making its mark in mainstream health-care settings.

“Bravo Hopkins. I love this idea – I wish even more health care systems were invested in these unconventional treatments. I’m excited to hear more on the research in upcoming months.”

by Lesley Eberts Brand Futurist The Republik Corporal Strategic Ops

Photo Credit: Rio Carciero via Flickr – Licensed CC-BY-NC-SA

MOTOR HEADS

The newest designs in concept cars include an entry that folds and is capable of fitting into tight spots. But it’s also intended to be “green.” The concept car’s powered by electricity or hydrogen, in effect solving what many consider to be the two main problems of the city of the future: pollution and overpopulation.

Check out this and other cool concept cars

“Folding electric cars for hire is an intriguing idea at best. Given the history of concept cars, I remain skeptical on this one.”

by Brady Bone Brand Futurist The Republik Captain Creative Ops

Photo Credit: via Toxel.com | Diseno-art.com

PLASTIC FANTASTIC

Plastic’s producer Nalgene says they will phase out their line of water bottles made with a chemical thought in recent years to pose a health risk to humans. The chemical (known as bisphenol A [BPA]) has long been used by companies worldwide in millions of products including baby bottles, liners of food cans and household goods.

Follow the rest of the story here.

“Nalgene’s decision to move away from BPA is great. Not only does it show that the company cares about the health of its consumers, but it sets a good example for others that may also be using potentially dangerous chemicals in their products. The decision may urge others in the industry to consider using alternative products as well.”

by Melissa Rivera Brand Futurist The Republik Lieutenant Strategic Ops

Photo Credit: via msnbc.msn.com | David Mcnew: Getty Images