A team of researchers from KAIST has developed a novel material that becomes stronger with repeated use. (Image courtesy of KAIST)
DAEJEON, Feb. 21 (Korea Bizwire) — A team of researchers from KAIST (Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology), in collaboration with Johns Hopkins University and the Georgia Institute of Technology, has developed a novel material that becomes stronger with repeated use, inspired by the natural strengthening process of human bones, the institute announced on February 20.
While conventional materials used in the construction of apartment buildings and manufacturing of vehicles typically degrade over time when subjected to repeated stress, this new material exhibits the opposite behavior.
The international research team drew inspiration from the way human bones increase their density through cellular processes that synthesize minerals in response to mechanical stress. They created a composite material that similarly strengthens itself through use.
The researchers developed the material by combining a porous piezoelectric base material — which generates more electrical charge as more force is applied — with an electrolyte containing mineral components.
When the team measured changes in the material’s properties after applying periodic force, they found that the material’s stiffness improved in proportion to both the frequency and magnitude of the applied stress.
Using micro-CT imaging, the researchers observed that repeated stress caused minerals to form within the porous material. When force was applied, these minerals would break down and disperse energy. This process of mineral formation would then repeat when stress was reapplied.
Unlike conventional materials that weaken with repeated use, this new material showed improved stiffness and shock absorption capabilities with continued use. The research team explained that the material’s mechanical properties could self-adjust proportionally to the magnitude and frequency of applied stress.
“This principle could be applied to various fields, from artificial joints to aircraft, ships, and automobiles,” said Kang Sung-Hoon, a professor of materials science and engineering at KAIST.
Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)
