Stretch test (VIDEO) Duke University This video is under embargo. Please login to access this video. Caption ire wear and tear is a major source of microplastic pollution. Scientists at Duke and MIT say advances in polymer design could help tackle this problem. In new research, they describe a way to make more durable rubbery materials that can take a beating and still bounce back. Watch as they put two materials to the test. Both samples are 98% acrylate, and stretchy like a rubber band. But the left one is 9 times tougher without losing elasticity. The secret to its toughness lies in weak bonds that actually make it stronger. Credit Please credit Stephen Craig, Duke University Usage Restrictions none License Original content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.