Scientists have produced a metal so light it can balance on the fluff of a dandelion, yet completely bounce back after compression. It has incredible potential for use as thermal insulation; acoustic, vibration or shock dampening; energy absorption and recovery; and electronic parts. Called an ultralight metallic microlattice, the material is unique in terms of its repeating structure (ultralight materials are usually made up of chaotic structures such as the bubbles in aerogel). The production method involves liquid photopolymer that solidifies when hit by ultraviolet radiation through a pattern, creating a lattice-work scaffold that is then coated with nickel-phosphorous. The photopolymer is then etched away, leaving a beautiful 3D form that’s essentially more air than solid.

Scientists have produced a metal so light it can balance on the fluff of a dandelion, yet completely bounce back after compression. It has incredible potential for use as thermal insulation; acoustic, vibration or shock dampening; energy absorption and recovery; and electronic parts.

Called an ultralight metallic microlattice, the material is unique in terms of its repeating structure (ultralight materials are usually made up of chaotic structures such as the bubbles in aerogel).

The production method involves liquid photopolymer that solidifies when hit by ultraviolet radiation through a pattern, creating a lattice-work scaffold that is then coated with nickel-phosphorous. The photopolymer is then etched away, leaving a beautiful 3D form that’s essentially more air than solid.

5 notes | #metal #tech #science #news #nature #3D #air #light
Source:alidasun
  1. brandx reblogged this from alidasun
  2. alidasun posted this