Many processes in organisms based on the self-organization of biological components. For materials scientists, such substances are a dream: you react autonomously to their environment and can adapt to this different conditions. At the U.S. MIT researchers aim to produce such wonders molecules artificially.
Technical application:
self healing materials
Continue reading Self healing materials
Hook and loop fasteners have become commonplace features of both industry and households.
These fasteners are resistant to chemicals and can withstand a tensile load of up to 35 tonnes per square meter at temperatures as high as 800°C.
Technical application:
Metaklett is basically suitable for use in all areas that require easily opened but stable fasteners, for example air-conditioning and ventilation systems in building services engineering and automotive construction.
Continue reading Hook fastener with up to 35 tonns / m²
Arboform acts a lot like any other petroleum-based plastic to a manufacturer. It can be injection-molded as a heated liquid to form any shape. But Arboform is not made of petroleum. Instead, it is made of “Lignin, combined with resins, flax and other natural fibers” as described in this article:
Technical application:
substitute plastic
Continue reading Fluid wood instead of plastic for incredible structures
Air-ray, modelled on the manta ray, is a remote-controlled hybrid construction consisting of a helium-filled ballonet and a beating wing drive. Its lightweight design enables it to “swim” in the sea of air using the lift from the helium in a similar way to the manta ray in wate
r.
Technical application:
Continue reading Manta Ray goes beyond air
The Forest Products Laboratory of the US Forest Service has opened a US$1.7 million pilot plant for the production of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) from wood by-products materials such as wood chips and sawdust.
Technical application:
substitute for steel or kevlar
Continue reading Cellulose with 7500N/mm² is stronger than Kevlar (R)
Termits use a smart way to ventilate their nest.
A team of mechanical and civil engineers at Loughborough University, UK, hopes to construct buildings that can create comfortable living conditions by extending our use of renewable forms of energy. How so? By unlocking a few of the mysteries found in the termite mounds on the plains of Namibia, Africa.
Technical application:
Shanghai Tower
Continue reading Termites nest for ventilating skyscrapers
