Summer Science

Nanotube Spin-Out from Professor Alan Windle’s research group in the Department of Materials Science and Metallurgy shows how carbon nanotubes can be produced by the mile as a basis for fibre composites and ropes. Specifically, it shows a novel new synthesis technique whereby at 1000°C, a liquid such as ethanol is turned directly into nanotube smoke, however critically, this smoke is elastic, so it can be hooked and spun continuously and directly into a fibre.

The second Cambridge exhibit, entitled Fruit flies and Alzheimer’s disease shows how the humble fruit fly is giving new insights into the commonest cause of dementia in the elderly. The team led by Professor David Lomas and Dr Damian Crowther in the Cambridge Institute of Medical Research have developed a model of Alzheimer’s disease in the fly. The flies show many of the features of the human disease and have been used to further our understanding of the pathways that cause brain damage. Furthermore the flies have been used to assess compounds that may prevent the development of Alzheimer’s disease in humans.

“The two University of Cambridge exhibits are great examples of the continually excellent standard of research the we have on display every year. The exhibition is a chance for the public to find out more about some of the fascinating science being carried out in the UK right now. Meeting researchers face-to-face lets people experience the excitement and enthusiasm that come with working at the forefront of scientific research,” said Lord May of Oxford, President of the Royal Society.

The Summer Science Exhibition takes place at the Royal Society, 6-9 Carlton House Terrace, London SW1Y 5AG, 5- 7 July.