STAR WARS MEETS MODERN PLASTIC RESEARCH

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The desolate emptiness and darkness of space is interrupted only by the twinkling light of distant stars and galaxies as you scan the instrument panel before you. Suddenly, without warning, a laser cannon blast rips through the hull of your X-wing fighter! Not to worry. The fuselage employs a regenerative plastic composite that heals itself within seconds of impact. The dangers that occur in the life of the Jedi Knight are never-ending, including the hand you lost in a light sword battle with the Dark Lord. … Read more

The Development of Modern Plastics

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During the late 19th century natural resources such as wood, ivory, and tortoiseshell were being depleted at a rapid rate. Ivory and tortoiseshell were highly sought-after materials for luxury items including hand-carved combs, hand-held mirrors, jewelry boxes, and many high-end personal items enjoyed by the well-to-do at the time. These materials were also used extensively for medical and dental instruments and more utilitarian uses such as pistol grips.
With the immense technological progress in chemistry and a need to find a replacement for dwindling natural resources, … Read more

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Metric Fasteners and the DIN Standard: An Introduction

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Most metric fasteners are made to the DIN standard-but what does DIN stand for?
Much the same way the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) was founded to promote U.S. voluntary standards and conformity for industry here in the U.S., the German counter-part, DIN, was established in 1917 in Berlin and has been adopted as the national standard by the German government. Originally founded as Normenausschuss der deutshen Industrie (NADI), the agency was formed to standardize German industrial practices and bring unity to the emerging German industrial machine. … Read more

ANSI Standards: Everything You Need to Know

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The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) was founded in 1919 as a private non-profit organization to promote U.S. voluntary standards and conformity for industry. Standardization became important at the onset of the industrial revolution with the development of standard products, interchangeable parts, and precision machine tools. Originally formed under the name American Engineering Standards Committee, the present name was adopted in 1969. Present day ANSI promotes standards and policy for everything from Nuclear Energy to homeland security. … Read more