Engineers at the Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY) have produced the strongest bio-material ever made. It is stronger than steel. It is also stronger than dragline spider silk—usually considered the strongest bio-material.
Using a novel production method called hydrodynamic focussing, the researchers transferred the unique mechanical properties of cellulose nanofibers (CNF) to a macroscopic, lightweight, biodegradable material that could be used as an eco-friendly alternative for plastic in airplanes, cars, furniture, and other products. And the new process has other applications, like controlling nanoscale assembly of carbon tubes and other nano-sized fibers.