Surprisingly strong: Spider silk after MPI treatment, lifting a weight of 27.5 g on a hook.
Credit: Max-Planck-Institute of Microstructure Physics
He hopes to apply the method to other proteins. Already the researchers have adapted the process to strengthen collagen fibres.
John Ramshaw, a protein chemist with Australia's government research body, the CSIRO, in Clayton, Victoria, said the new method could work with other natural materials, although further testing would be necessary.
"It will be interesting to see if the metal-modified materials are durable and that if the method can be taken to a commercial scale that will be cost effective," he said.
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