AN ANTIMICROBIAL LIPSTICK DESTROYS BACTERIA AND VIRUSES | # FASHION

Researchers reporting in the American Chemical Society Applied Materials and Interfaces have found a way to give lipstick cream antimicrobial properties – by adding cranberry extract to the formulation. The deep red formula was found to inactivate any harmful and disease-causing viruses, bacteria, and fungus that it encountered very quickly.

TURNING FOOD WASTE INTO PACKAGING| # SUSTAINABILITY

Singapore-based startup Alterpacks chose spent grain for its new line of compostable food containers. Malt and barley grain waste created by the beer brewing process provides most of Alterpacks’ raw material.

AN ENGINE TURNS WASTE HEAT INTO CLEAN ELECTRICITY | # ENERGY

Israel-based startup Luminescent has built a system that produces zero-emission electricity.  A small, isothermal engine upcycles waste heat and is designed to fit alongside conventional large engines and generators to send electricity back to the grid. 

COMPRESSING BIOMASS TO CREATE ALTERNATIVE FUEL AND ANTIVIRALS | # AGRICULTURE

Researchers from Okayama University have created a new compression method of drying plant biomass that reduces the steps needed to turn organic waste into an energy source. The new mechanical compression system also removes liquid from the feedstock in a way that retains water-soluble lignin.

EARPHONES CONTROLLED BY FACIAL EXPRESSIONS | # TECH

French startup Wisear uses earbuds that create a neural interface by detecting electrical signals in the skin of the user’s ear canal. The link can then be used to signal actions like answering the phone, playing music, and more.