Chemist Paul Edmiston’s search for a new way to detect explosives at airports led to the creation Osorb. A swellable, organically-modified silica, or glass, capable of absorbing oil and other contaminants from water. Osorb has become the principal product of a company called ABSMaterials, where Edmiston is now chief scientist. With support from the National Science Foundation, Edmiston and his colleagues at ABSMaterials are developing water remediation technologies for cities and industries. ABSMaterials is creating formulas to address various contaminants, including hydrocarbons, pharmaceuticals, pesticides, herbicides, chlorinated solvents, and endocrine disruptors. Part of the National Science Foundation Series “Science Nation.”