Next Generation Condom
Condom technology has basically stayed the same for 500 years. The 16th century condom was a linen sheath soaked in a chemical solution and then dried before use. Materials advancement beyond linen saw the use of animal intestines and bladders. And then we have the latex condom.
There have been refinements and esthetics changes such as adding a reservoir tip, flavoring, colors, stimulating textures and anti-ejaculation chemicals but the latex material has remained the same.
Wearing a condom is like taking a shower with a raincoat on. Time to build a better mouse trap ...
In March of 2013, Microsoft founder and philanthropist Bill Gates offered $100,000 of initial funding, with up to $1 million of possible continued funding to anyone who can invent the next-generation condom. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation received 812 entries for its "build a better condom" competition. In Nov of 2013, eleven entrants got $100,000 in round 11 funding to make it happen. Others have received grants after that round, including round 12 funding for the University of Wollongong as shown in the following video.
University of Wollongong
Here are examples of next generation condom technology:
- Made from cow tendons with embedded fibres for greater heat transfer. Just imagine the jokes "I offer you the tenderloin.", "Where's the beef?" and "This is one hot condom.".
- Shrinking sheath which gently tightens during use for enhanced sensation and reduced chance of leakage.
- Ultra sheer wrapping which clings - an alternative to the shrinking sheath technology.
- Graphene based polymer for heat transfer, improved sensitivity and drug delivery (chemicals used to enhance sexual experience and to provide further protection against fertilization.)
- Nano particle condom coating to help with lubrication and protection against breakage.
- Polyurethane elastic polymers to warm up and shape around the object. Call it "shape shifters"?
- Nano material created from graphene to be thinner than thin and tougher than steel.
- Highly elastic polymer called superelastomers that allows for soft, super thin, and cheap-to-produce condoms. Goal is to make a condom that has the same texture as skin - you won't even know it's there. Oops, I forgot to put it on!