Bacteria in such a film are embedded in a polymer matrix, which makes them harder to kill than isolated individuals.

ECONOMIST: Using a plasma torch to clean your teeth

Engineers and scientists are developing many new types of materials such as carbon nanotubes, ceramic-matrix nanocomposites (and their metal-matrix and polymer-matrix equivalents), and new carbon fibers.

FORBES: Why I Believe That This Will Be The Most Innovative Decade In History