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Lepidopteran insect wings or lepidopteran scales geometry solves a triple trade-off in flight materials

Researchers have developed a metamaterial that combines stiffness, electromagnetic absorption, and noise reduction, inspired by the intricate scales of lepidopteran insects. The material, just 24mm thick, can support heavy loads, absorb microwave signals, and silence low-frequency noise, solving a long-standing trade-off in flight mate...

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateOct 22, 2026

Metal, melted, mastered

Researchers at Virginia Tech have developed an AI-powered system to detect flaws in wire-arc additive manufacturing, a faster approach to producing complex components. The technology enables real-time defect detection and correction, reducing waste and improving quality.

SourceVirginia Tech·JournalMaterials & Design·DateOct 7, 2025

From PIC to probe

A team of researchers at Ghent University and imec developed a silicon photonic temperature sensor that measures up to 180°C. The sensor was realized in the framework of the European SEER project, where partners focus on integrating optical sensors in manufacturing routines for composite parts.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalJournal of Optical Microsystems·DateDec 15, 2023

CityU joint research creates 3D-printed aluminium alloy with unprecedented fatigue resistance

A team of researchers from City University of Hong Kong and Shanghai Jiao Tong University has developed a novel aluminium alloy with unprecedented fatigue resistance using advanced 3D printing techniques. The new alloy, called NTD-Al, surpasses the fatigue strength of high-strength wrought Al alloys and conventional metals.

SourceCity University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 24, 2023

New tech solves longstanding challenges for self-healing materials

Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a new self-healing composite that can repair itself in place without removal. The technology addresses two longstanding challenges, increasing the lifespan of structural components by up to 500%. This resolves limitations such as overheating and limited self-repair cycles.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 31, 2022

Strain-sensing smart skin ready to deploy

The new system, S4, offers a high-resolution view of stressed specimens comparable to or better than established technologies like DIC. It also overcomes optical challenges posed by cement in concrete, providing a reliable strain measurement technology.

SourceRice University·JournalScientific Reports·TypeExperimental study·DateJul 14, 2022