Spider silk is one of nature’s most amazing materials. It’s stronger than steel and more elastic than a rubber band and has dozens of potential applications from construction to medicine. For years, scientists have been trying to tap into the power of spider silk, but have struggled to produce mass quantities; It’s hard to farm spiders since they’re territorial and cannibalistic. However, while it may be impossible to farm spiders, it is possible to grow spider silk in labs. The process for doing so has already been patented, and one company is already selling its lab-grown spider silk as a replacement for traditional silk additives in cosmetics and as a coating for breast implants. Of course, these are rather niche items that have a smaller impact on the world, but the long-term goal is to ultimately replace materials like polyester that are made with petrochemicals and harm the environment.
How lab-grown spider silk could replace everyday materials like polyester
More of Today's Solutions
Spray-on powder developed in South Korea stops severe bleeding in just one se...
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM Stopping life-threatening bleeding often comes down to a matter of seconds. Now, scientists in South Korea may have ...
Read MoreOnly have 10 minutes? This quick burst of exercise may cut your cancer risk
BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM We already know working out is good for your heart, your waistline, and your mental state. But it ...
Read MoreStudy confirms you slow degenerative aging by picking up the pace
It’s no surprise that maintaining an active lifestyle is linked to staving off age-related diseases such as heart damage, memory loss, and cognitive decline. ...
Read MoreInclusive learning through play: Lego introduces braille bricks for vision-im...
Here at The Optimist Daily, we often tout the many wonderful initiatives spearheaded by well-known Danish toymaker Lego. From its commitment to sustainable practices, its ...
Read More
