Ractopamine: Chemistry in its element
Common in the US but banned in the EU, this animal feed additive makes for muscular pigs and beefy international trade disputes.
17 Juli 20207min
Hexasilabenzene: Chemistry in its element
Brian Clegg discovers what a six-membered silicon ring can tell us about alien life
10 Juli 20206min
2AP (2-acetyl-1-pyrroline): Chemistry in its element
Frances Addison on the aromatic compound found in both buttered popcorn and the bearcat's scent glands, and responsible for the distinctive smell of both
3 Juli 20205min
Dexamethasone: Chemistry in its element
News that this cheap, ubiquitous steroid drug may reduce deaths in Covid-19 cases has been greeted with cautious optimism. Ben Valsler looks at the history of dexamethasone and the promising Recovery ...
26 Juni 20206min
Porcelain: Chemistry in its element
Mike Freemantle on the art, history and science of this delicate, translucent ceramic material
19 Juni 20206min
Feldspar: Chemistry in its element
Brian Clegg introduces the humble mineral that delights both astronomers and archaeologists
12 Juni 20207min
Cimetidine: Chemistry in its element
Mike Freemantle introduces the peptic ulcer treatment cimetidine, which – as Tagamet – became the first 'blockbuster' drug
5 Juni 20207min
Fexinidazole: Chemistry in its element
The World Health Organisation hope to eradicate human African trypanosomiasis, better known as sleeping sickness, within our lifetimes. Jamie Durrani looks at a drug that may make it possible.
29 Maj 20206min
