INV-23063
Background
Materials with a negative Poisson's ratio, known as auxetics, have been studied for use in applications that can resist in-plane or out-of-plane loads. When stretched these materials uniquely expand perpendicular to the applied force. However, their widespread adoption faces significant hurdles due to their typical foam-like, porous structure, which compromises their strength and durability. The cellular makeup of auxetics introduces inherent weaknesses, making them susceptible to deformation and failure under diverse loading conditions. Moreover, the challenge of manufacturing auxetic materials with uniform and predictable qualities further limits their practical application in areas requiring high reliability, such as protective gear and critical mechanical components.
Description
Northeastern researchers have created a novel class of fiber-reinforced composites, characterized by a negative Poisson’s ratio and designed without the pores or voids typical of traditional auxetic materials. These composites demonstrate unparalleled resistance to a vast array of stresses, including tension, compression, shear, indentation, and impact forces, and possess the unique ability to form synclastic curvature, broadening their applicability. The development process is grounded in detailed numerical simulations, which are further validated through the fabrication of prototypes using advanced multi-material 3D printing techniques. Mechanical testing of these prototypes has confirmed the simulated predictions, revealing a direct correlation between the composites' structural design, material combinations, and their enhanced properties. This evidence underscores their exceptional performance and potential across various applications, showcasing the researchers' success in addressing current material challenges.
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Opportunity
Seeking