A team of material scientists at Pohang University of Science and Technology, South Korea, announced its discovery of a new alloy that has the same strength-to-weight ratio as titanium alloys, but at just tenth the cost, Fast Company reports.
The research team, which consisted of Professors Hansoo Kim and Nack J. Kim, as well as doctoral student Sang-Heon Kim, found that nanometer-sized B2 crystal compounds—traditionally considered harmful for steels—can create a lightweight yet strong metal when dispersed within the steel’s grains.
Their research findings were published in the Feb. 5 edition of the journal Nature.
“With this innovative approach, stronger and more ductile lightweight steels [can] been created,” a statement from the university says.
Read more at Fast Company.
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