Microlattice is the Lightest Metal on Earth
Meghan Young — November 15, 2012 — Tech
The lightest metal on earth has been developed and it has been dubbed microlattice. A hundred times lighter than styrofoam, microlattice may be able to sit on a dandelion without crushing its seeds, but don't be deceived by this feat. Microlattice might appear delicate, but it can bear a 50% compression stress load. Impressed yet?
Created by HRL Laboratories in collaboration with researchers at Caltech and UC Irvine, microlattice is purported for aerospace structural components. As light as a feather and strong as a spiderweb, microlattice achieves these wondrous qualities through a series of hollow tubes. According to Popular Science, "Researchers exposed a light sensitive liquid to UV light through a patterned mask, which created a three-dimensional photopolymer lattice. They then deposited a layer of nickel-phosphorous onto the polymer lattice, which was then etched." The result being microlattice.
Created by HRL Laboratories in collaboration with researchers at Caltech and UC Irvine, microlattice is purported for aerospace structural components. As light as a feather and strong as a spiderweb, microlattice achieves these wondrous qualities through a series of hollow tubes. According to Popular Science, "Researchers exposed a light sensitive liquid to UV light through a patterned mask, which created a three-dimensional photopolymer lattice. They then deposited a layer of nickel-phosphorous onto the polymer lattice, which was then etched." The result being microlattice.
Trend Themes
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Microlattice — Microlattice, the lightest metal on earth, offers disruptive innovation opportunities in aerospace structural components.
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Lightweight Materials — The development of microlattice highlights the trend towards lightweight metals, creating opportunities in various industries.
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Advanced Manufacturing — The production process of microlattice using 3D photopolymer lattice and etching showcases the potential for advanced manufacturing techniques.
Industry Implications
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Aerospace — Microlattice's strength and lightweight properties make it a potential game-changer in the aerospace industry, revolutionizing structural design and fuel efficiency.
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Materials Science — The development of microlattice highlights the importance of materials science in creating innovative solutions for lightweight and high-strength materials.
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Manufacturing — The manufacturing industry can explore advanced techniques like 3D photopolymer lattice and etching to produce lightweight and strong metals for various applications.
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