New loofah-like polymer kills viruses, stronger than plastic

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a novel synthetic polymer inspired by the natural loofah sponge, featuring a porous, loofah-like structure that is stronger than typical plastics yet lighter than foam. This innovative material exhibits remarkable mechanical properties, achieving a stiffness of up to 11 gigapascals at a low density of 0.5 grams per cubic centimeter—about four times stronger than conventional polymers. The polymer is pH-responsive, becoming more rigid or flexible depending on acidity, and its fine pore network (around 70 nm) allows fluids to pass while filtering and killing bacteria and viruses, making it highly suitable for filtration, structural applications, and potentially medical devices. The polymer is synthesized simply using water, applied voltage, and a mixture of resorcinol and an aldehyde, producing an ultrathin porous membrane without requiring post-processing. This process is scalable and compatible with roll-to-roll manufacturing, enhancing its industrial viability. Made from a lignin-like base, the material