I read this in today's newspaper. The next generation tennis string material probably comes from spider web that is more durable, bouncier, and more shock absorbent. I will think badminton string will take no exception then. If you understand Chinese, please enjoy.
So they've found a way to extract the thing yet? I've known this for the longest time, the protein from the spiderweb is lik 100-150times stronger than anything we can make. However, my concern is... HOW will they extract it, and even if they can make something out of it, it will be REALLY REALLY expensive
errr, they got a way and done it already, scientists have spliced the spider's web making genes onto a goat gene and the resulting goat's milk has the spider web protein. BTW, 2003 is the goat year. They can use genetically modified cow too but goat is faster to lactation stage.
I'm getting chills thinking that one day I might be eating goat's curry, milk or cheese with spider stuff in it. Anyone else have the same feeling?
Think of the possibilities. With spider web/goat guts, we will have the ultimate string, and it will have phenomenal repulsion power, fantastic touch, and extreme durability, and one new benefit -- like spider web, the new string will have the feature of being able to hold the shuttlecork on the sticky strings for as long as the user chooses so the player can wait until the opponent has commited to a different direction. All players will become super power players and the super stroke/finese players at the same time. This sounds like the ... .. Amazing Spiderman. Ron
I don't know i like that. Having equipment(s) changed so drastic would change the game of badminton too. Look at tennis, bigger and lighter racquets have shortened men's rallies. Golf courses have to be lengthened because the clubs are so good nowadays.
cooler: Good point indeed. I read from the same newspaper that they are planning to increase the size of tennis ball by 6% thus to prolong the rally time by 25%. There are objections of course.