'Sticky chains' dampen fuel explosions

A newly developed additive for jet fuel could prevent explosions without compromising engine function, say US researchers.

They hope it will cut the likelihood of fireballs erupting when aircraft and other vehicles crash.

The additive consists of "megasupramolecules": very long polymers, which stop the fuel forming tiny, explosive droplets but break apart when it flows through pipelines and filters, allowing normal engine function.

Crucially, the chains then re-join thanks to specially designed "sticky ends".

The research is published in Science.

Footage: California Institute of Technology / Jet Propulsion Laboratory