Published in Physics World, 15 Sep 2011
Researchers in the US have shown that mechanical force can bring about unique chemical reactions. Their experiment involved pulling on molecules in solution using ultrasound and suggests that mechanics could open up other new reaction pathways in chemistry. The discovery could also lead to the development of new technologies such as force-activated sensors or reversible adhesives.
Chemists have several ways to help chemical reactions along, such as adding heat or light. But broad additions of energy such as these can bring about unwanted by-products and waste valuable reactants. In other cases, heat and light simply do not work. […]
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