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This week Adam Walton explores the science of polymers, following the high profile recent launch of the new 拢5 note, which is made from durable polymer, and is predicted to last at least twice as long as the current paper based banknotes.

Joining Adam on the programme are Dr Chris Finlayson, a physicist from Aberystwyth University; Dr Hongyun Tai from Bangor University's School of Chemistry, and Dr Ian Ratcliffe of Wrexham Glyndwr University's Centre For Water Soluble Polymers.

We hear an outline of what exactly polymers are - long chain molecules which can be either naturally occuring (such as silk, wool and DNA) and man-made (such as nylon, teflon and polystyrene). We also explore the wide range of uses that polymers can be put to including coatings and thickeners, superglue and also money, including the new hi-tech plastic style banknotes.

Research is also being done on new ways of delivering drugs to combat cancer. Polymers can be used as carriers to improve the efficiency of targeting cancer cells, and also is the controlled release of drugs. We also hear about research into hyperbranched ("tree-like") polymers which could be used to further improve the efficiency of drug delivery within the body