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[–] Ardeet [S] ago 

when tiny nanofibres of spinifex are added to rubber, the result is a stronger and more flexible product.

..,

“Spinifex is everywhere, it covers 27% of Australia,” she says.

...

Just a small amount of spinifex—less than 5%—is enough to reinforce rubber, polyurethane or another polymer, Nasim says.

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[–] DrunkenSarcasm ago 

Silly aussies, they only break 'cos you're using 'em upside down

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[–] PaulNeriAustralia ago 

If the invention does prove a winner, just sit back and wait for the inevitable cries of cultural appropriation or whatever.

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[–] Ardeet [S] 0 points 1 point (+1|-0) ago 

I think condoms are generic enough nowadays that no one would consider improving them to be cultural appropriation.

I’m not even sure who invented them, are you?

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[–] PaulNeriAustralia 0 points 1 point (+1|-0) ago 

"The history of condoms goes back at least several centuries, and perhaps beyond. For most of their history, condoms have been used both as a method of birth control, and as a protective measure against sexually transmitted diseases. Condoms have been made from a variety of materials; prior to the 19th century, chemically treated linen and animal tissue (intestine or bladder) are the best documented varieties. Rubber condoms gained popularity in the mid-19th century, and in the early 20th century major advances were made in manufacturing techniques." (Wikipedia).

The cultural appropriation I had in mind was the Spinifex resin which apparently has been used by the indigene for many dream times.