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Think like GeckSkin: Professor Alfred J. Crosby at TEDxUMassAmherst 2014

4,888 views · Published 16 June 2014 · 16:19 · Indexed 3 October 2026

Channel: TEDx Talks · 2014 · Nonprofits & Activism

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Can you imagine scaling a wall using nothing but your bare hands? This seemingly impossible feat may soon become a reality. College of Natural Sciences at UMass Amherst professor and Polymer Scientist, Al Crosby, is working on the development of GeckSkin -- a highly scientific fabric based off of the anatomical properties of the gecko. 

Geckskin can hold up to 700 pounds, which may eventually spell the extinction of the old hammer and nail. Crosby's research was originally funded by DARPA, the research arm of the Pentagon. This disruptive and transformative innovation is rapidly changing the world of polymer research

Recorded at TEDxUMassAmherst 2014 on April 27, 2014 in Mahar Auditorium at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

www.TEDxUMassAmherst.org

Opening and closing music: Light - CRISTALLIN - a "The Brio Life" Artist

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In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x = independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

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