Scientists at the University of Toronto have created a revolutionary new material by combining machine learning with nanotechnology. The breakthrough could transform entire industries, including aerospace and automotive.
For decades, engineers have sought materials that balance strength and weight. Traditional options like aluminum and titanium have limitations, while carbon fiber is not always the best choice. Instead, researchers used nanostructured materials inspired by nature – such as bones, shells, or honeycombs – to create even distributions of stress and avoid weak points.
The team applied Bayesian optimization, a machine learning method, to identify optimal shapes for their carbon nanorods. The algorithm tested thousands of possible structures in virtual simulations before refining the designs to achieve maximum strength and stiffness at minimum weight.
Using 3D printing with nanometer precision, the researchers created ultrathin gratings consisting of individual cells just 300-600 nm thick. These materials exceeded expectations by more than doubling their predecessors’ strength and outperforming aluminum alloys or carbon fiber in many cases.
The “size effect” plays a crucial role in this phenomenon – at the nanoscale, carbon atoms form structures providing maximum rigidity, leading to exceptional strength. This breakthrough could significantly reduce fuel consumption and emissions in the aerospace industry by creating lighter parts for airplanes, helicopters, and spacecraft.
Source: https://itc.ua/en/news/ultra-lightweight-material-stronger-than-titanium-ai-calculates-the-optimal-structure