Stronger Than Steel: Synthetic Spider Silk is Real

The video explores the unique properties of spider silk, which is both strong and elastic, making it a highly sought-after material. Due to the challenges of farming spiders, scientists have turned to genetic modification to produce spider silk proteins using bacteria. This breakthrough has led to the creation of AmSilk, a company that produces synthetic spider silk for various applications, including fashion and aviation. Despite its potential, scaling production remains a challenge. The material's biodegradability and protein composition make it suitable for medical and other innovative uses, with ongoing research to expand its applications.

What makes spider silk unique compared to other materials?

• It is only strong but not elastic.

• It is both strong and elastic.

• It is only elastic but not strong.

• It is the heaviest natural material.

Why can't spider silk be farmed like silkworm silk?

• Spiders produce silk too slowly.

• Spiders eat each other.

• Spider silk is too fragile.

• Spiders require a specific diet.

What was the key scientific breakthrough that allowed for the production of synthetic spider silk?

• Discovering a new type of spider.

• DNA sequencing and genetic modification of bacteria.

• Finding a new source of natural silk.

• Developing a new type of spinning machine.

What is the main challenge in producing synthetic spider silk on a large scale?

• Producing enough of the material.

• The high cost of production.

• Finding enough spiders.

• Lack of interest from industries.

Which industry has used synthetic spider silk to create a concept product?

• Construction

• Fashion

• Automotive

• Pharmaceutical

What is one potential medical application of spider silk?

• Improving eyesight.

• Developing new antibiotics.

• Creating stronger bones.

• Tissue regeneration.

Why is spider silk considered suitable for medical devices?

• It is very cheap to produce.

• It is a proteinaceous material.

• It is non-biodegradable.

• It is resistant to all bacteria.