Everwide newsletter No.465

skill484
Nov 10, 2025
3 min read

Experiment § Sensitizers I Have Studied

With the rapid development of polymer materials in industrial and medical fields, advances in polymerization techniques have become a key driver of material innovation. Among these, ionic polymerization is characterized by high efficiency and controllability, and it is increasingly applied in the preparation of high-performance resins and precision materials. In typical ionic polymerization reactions, the wavelength range of light absorption is limited. To address this issue, sensitizers are often added to broaden the absorption range. Traditional sensitizers, however, can produce intense glare during the curing of adhesives, which may cause eye discomfort or even long-term damage after prolonged exposure (Figures 1–2). We have developed a novel adhesive system based on ionic polymerization that balances curing rate and operational safety. At room temperature, using a 365 nm LED light source with the same irradiation energy, this adhesive maintains the curing rate while significantly reducing the glare caused by intense light (Figures 3–4). This adhesive can rapidly cure under both ultraviolet and visible light conditions. Interested parties are welcome to contact us at any time. —Author: Mr. Chen Dezhong

Activity § 2025 Company Trip to Japan

The destination for the 2025 company trip was decided through an all-employee vote, with Japan and Korea selected as the top choices. In October, two groups bound for Japan set off first. The trip offered not only a chance to relax and unwind but also a wonderful opportunity for colleagues from different departments to connect and strengthen their bonds (Figures 1–3). The itinerary featured cultural highlights such as Kumamoto Castle and the charming town of Yufuin, along with a popular visit to a nature-themed zoo that thrilled both adults and children. “I was so nervous feeding raw chicken to a lion up close!” one colleague exclaimed. Amid laughter and excitement, everyone brought home warm and lasting memories (Fig 4–5).

Knowledge § Principle of Polymer Annealing (2)

An effective way to relieve internal stress is annealing, where the polymer is heated to a relatively high temperature for a specified period and then cooled slowly. This allows the previously “frozen” molecular chains to regain mobility and rearrange into more favorable positions. After annealing, the chains are packed more tightly and entangled more effectively, which acts like an increase in physical crosslinking, resulting in enhanced strength. As mentioned earlier, annealing reduces internal stress, increases material strength, and minimizes unexpected cracking. Some people mistakenly describe this effect as making the polymer tougher. In fact, annealing makes the polymer stronger—it can withstand higher stress—but in terms of fracture energy, annealing actually reduces it. The polymer becomes more brittle, not tougher.

Living § My Distance from the Rocket

Rockets have always seemed distant to me—but this summer, I experienced them up close. On July 25, I drove with my daughter to the Xuhai Base in Pingtung. Just as I wondered if we were lost, flags for the rocket competition appeared, and we knew we were on the right track. Is a high school student’s dream only to get into a top university? I saw young innovators designing a toy rocket that could fly, steer, carry fuel, and transmit signals. When the payload drone returned to the crowd, everyone erupted with excitement, their cheers echoing through the air. As the saying goes, “It’s rocket science.” Indeed, overcoming gravity, reaching a precise destination, executing space missions, and returning safely are monumental challenges. From July 25 to 27, Taiwanese high school students embarked on their first adventure. Though only one college team successfully deployed a parachute among 15 finalists, I believe these students will continue to overcome obstacles. How far is our distance from rockets? It all depends on whether you are willing to take the first step out of your comfort zone. —Author: Ms. Lin Miaoling