Giant molecules: From nylon to nanotubes

Abstract

Originally published in 2009. Macromolecules are a fascinating group of molecules with some remarkable properties, many of which are only just being discovered and exploited by science. Walter Gratzer explores their history, structure, and properties - from DNA to polymers, to their cutting edge uses in nanoarrays and biomimetics. Before the dawn -- The basics : a little chemistry -- Proteins : from skin and bone to enzymes -- Storage : of food and information -- The protean element : carbon in new guises -- The plastic world -- The quiddity of polymers : shapes, sizes, and their effects -- The new age : giant molecules for the twenty-first century -- Present and future : where will it end? -- The many faces of DNA.