Swiss Team Grows Remarkably Strong Metal Structures

Quick Smiles:

• Swiss scientists developed a method to ‘grow’ metal from gel, creating unique, durable structures.
• The new process results in materials 20 times stronger and with far less shrinkage than previous techniques.
• This breakthrough could lead to advances in sensors, medical devices, and energy technology.

Researchers at EPFL in Switzerland have unveiled a way to cultivate metal using a water-based hydrogel, leading to exceptionally tough and precise components.

This innovative method replaces traditional 3D printing with a process where metal salts are added after forming the gel structure, resulting in dense and customizable metal, ceramic, or composite creations.

The team produced intricate shapes from iron, copper, and silver, showing how the technique balances strength and complexity for potential use in energy and medical technologies.

“Our materials could withstand 20 times more pressure compared to those produced with previous methods, while exhibiting only 20% shrinkage versus 60-90%,” says PhD student and first author Yiming Ji.

Plans are underway to further improve density and speed by automating production, paving the way for even more practical applications.

Stay tuned for more inspiring breakthroughs in sustainable materials and technology!

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