Removing monowire (was RE: Wire Obstacles)

There has been some concern in this thread about the dificulty of
removing
monomolecular wire, which might make it useless in a military context.
One
thing that has not been considered is the biochemical solution.

Monomolecular wire is likely to be an organic molecule (note that spider
silk is a monomolecular filament and is stronger than steel for its
diameter). This means an enzyme is likely to be available (or can be
created [I know creating enzymes from scratch is not possible now, but
we
are talking sci-fi.]) that will dissolve the wire. Just spray the wire
"infested" area and wait a few minutes. The effect would not be
instantaneous. The speed with which the enzyme can destroy the wire will
depend on temperature, humidity, and, possibly, the atmospheric
composition.

Also, monofilament wire will be degraded over time by UV (ultraviolet)
radiation. The rate at which this occurs will depend on if the wire is
shaded, UV output of the local sun, humidity, etc.

Just some thoughts from a former biochemist turned technical
writer/editor.

Terrance L. Smith, Ph.D.
tlsmith@micron.net
Nampa, Idaho