So, gels. Gels are very useful items: they slick back your hair, cover your medicines, and serve as a coloring and flavor delivery system. But they tend to degrade into solids and liquids over time. Not anymore, thanks to science!
Scientists at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility, which we swear only sounds like a research facility from a Godzilla movie, have discovered that you can make an “equilibrium gel” from a synthetic clay called Laponite. If you mix Laponite and water, above a 1% concentration gives you a gel stable throughout its entire structure. And it stays that way apparently permanently.
No, you can’t eat it.
This has a lot of implications both practical and theoretical. But we’re sure the main application will be permanent gel inserts.
[ via the Pudding Pops at io9 ]