These molecules have a curious relationship with water. One part of the molecule is hydrophilic, so it attracts water molecules. The other part is hydrophobic, so it pushes them away.

The new composite material contains double the volume of glass fibres compared to common composites and thus is extremely stabile.

Extremely hot or cold periods are a serious problem to road surfaces: many cracks, potholes and car ruts are the consequence.

The idea is that all vehicles and road infrastructure such as road signs, parking spaces or tolling stations will communicate with each other to create and share new kind of travel and traffic information.