3D printing allows blind chemists to visualise scientific data

A close-up photo of someone's fingers using a lithophane of a protein electrophoresis gel. The lithophane is a grey-blue flat plastic piece with a number of raised elongated spots.

Source: © Jordan Koone and Bryan Shaw

Lithophanes produced with a basic 3D printer can make research findings more accessible

A group of US-based chemists have transformed scientific charts and images into tactile materials that are accessible to blind and visually impaired researchers. This could help to reduce barriers faced by people with low vision who wish to study and work in science.