The process of marrying the screen to the tablet using different forms of chemical bonds prevents condensation, delivers cleaner text, improves contrast, and reduces glare and light reflectivity making the tablet easier to read outdoors.

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However, the researchers appeared confident that these setbacks could be overcome and added that future 3D printers should permit greater control over reflectivity, light absorption and other factors allowing toy designers to incorporate additional functionality.

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So far, Dr Borra has achieved a reflectivity of 50% (that is, half of the light falling on the mirror is reflected), but he is confident that he will be able to equal the 80% reflectivity of mercury.

ECONOMIST: Mirror, mirror