chemical engineers

Chemical engineers have broken the "mucus barrier," engineering the first drug-delivery particles capable of passing through human mucus -- regarded by many as nearly impenetrable -- and carrying medication that could treat a range of diseases.

Those conditions include lung cancer, cervical cancer and cystic fibrosis, the research say.

Chemical engineers have developed a chlorine-tolerant membrane that should simplify the water desalination process, increasing access to fresh water and possibly reducing greenhouse gases.

Chemical engineers have unveiled a set of techniques for cleanly converting problematic biofuels waste into profitable chemicals.

New research in the journal Metabolic Engineering describes a new fermentation process that allows E. coli and other enteric bacteria to convert glycerin -- the major waste byproduct of biodiesel production -- into formate, succinate and other valuable organic acids.

The researchers say the technology could yield a new platform for "green" chemical production.

Chemical engineers have developed a "self-assembling" method that could lead to an inexpensive way of making diamondlike crystals to improve optical communications and other technologies.

(Purdue University) Chemical engineers have developed a "self-assembling" method that could lead to an inexpensive way of making diamondlike crystals to improve optical communications and other technologies.