And The Future Will Be Soft and Moist.

NewScientist just published a quick overview of a number of new technologies that show promise for solving a number of modern problems not through Chemistry or Nanotechnology, but through genetically engineering bacteria. One of the most intriguing new developments mentioned is a type of enzyme produced by bacteria that can release hydrogen atoms from water molecules in the right chemical environment, producing hydrogen gas. Enzymes produced from bacteria could also help replace expensive platinum catalysts in hydrogen fuel cells, making the cells smaller in the process. While these enzymes are currently more expensive than platinum, their price is expected to drop over time while the price of platinum, which is already in high demand, should remain high. The article also goes on to describe bacteria that can digest certain types of recycled plastic, converting it into more useful polymers.

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