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The Strongest Materials in the World

On 24th August 2023

At 4:55 pm

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In a world where technology is advancing at breakneck speed, the quest for the strongest materials has never been more crucial. From the screens of our smartphones to the fibres in bulletproof vests, the materials we use play a pivotal role in our daily lives. But what are these super materials? Let’s embark on a journey to uncover the mightiest materials on our planet.

Graphene

Imagine a material so thin, yet stronger than steel. That’s graphene for you. A single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice, graphene is touted as the strongest material ever tested.

Graphene is typically produced by reducing graphite oxide. The process involves exfoliating graphite into individual layers, resulting in this wonder material.

From flexible electronics to water purification, the potential applications of graphene are vast. Its incredible strength and flexibility mean it could revolutionise industries, from aviation to medicine.

Carbon Nanotubes

When we delve into the microscopic realm, we encounter materials with properties that seem almost magical. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are one such marvel. These cylindrical molecules have extraordinary mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties, making them one of the most researched materials in nanotechnology.

Carbon nanotubes are essentially sheets of graphene rolled into tubes. They can be single-walled (one tube) or multi-walled (several concentric tubes). There are various methods to produce CNTs, but the most common ones include chemical vapour deposition, arc discharge, and laser ablation of carbon.

The potential applications of carbon nanotubes are vast and varied:

Electronics: Due to their excellent electrical conductivity, CNTs are being explored for use in transistors, capacitors, and even flexible displays.

Medicine: Believe it or not, these tiny tubes could play a big role in medical imaging and drug delivery.

Energy: CNTs are being researched for use in batteries and fuel cells, potentially revolutionising how we store and use energy.

Materials: When added to polymers, CNTs can create composites with enhanced strength and flexibility. Think of super-strong sports equipment or even aerospace components

While carbon nanotubes might sound like something out of a sci-fi novel, they’re slowly making their way into our daily lives. The tennis racket you use, the battery that powers your smartphone, or the medical treatments of the future might all owe a debt to these remarkable nano giants.

Diamonds

Diamonds aren’t just a girl’s best friend; they’re also one of the hardest materials known to man. Formed deep within the Earth’s mantle, these sparkling gems are more than just pretty adornments.

Diamonds are typically mined from the Earth’s crust in areas with volcanic activity. They form under extreme pressure and heat and are brought to the surface by volcanic eruptions.

Beyond jewellery, diamonds play a crucial role in various industrial applications. Their hardness makes them perfect for cutting, grinding, and drilling. If you’ve ever used a drill or saw, chances are, it had a bit of diamond in it.

Spider Silk

While it might seem delicate, spider silk boasts a tensile strength comparable to that of steel. This natural fibre, spun by our eight-legged friends, is incredibly tough.

Spiders produce silk through their spinnerets, tiny organs that turn liquid silk proteins into solid threads.

Researchers are exploring the potential of spider silk in medical sutures, fishing nets, and even bulletproof clothing. Imagine wearing a jacket made of spider silk that could stop a bullet!

Silicon Carbide

Silicon carbide, a compound of silicon and carbon, is known for its hardness. It’s so tough that it’s often used in applications where wear resistance is crucial.

Silicon carbide is produced in a resistance arc furnace, where sand (silica) and petroleum coke are combined at high temperatures.

You’ll find silicon carbide in car brakes and clutches due to its heat resistance. It’s also used in electronic circuits and even in the stargazing world for telescope mirrors.

Metallic Glass

Unlike traditional glass, metallic glass (or amorphous metal) isn’t crystalline. This gives it unique properties, including high strength and elasticity.

Metallic glass is formed by rapidly cooling molten metal, preventing the formation of a regular crystalline structure.

Its resistance to wear and corrosion makes metallic glass ideal for making jewellery, electronic casings, and even golf clubs.

Ultra-high Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMWPE) Fiber

UHMWPE fiber is a type of polyethylene with a very high strength-to-weight ratio. It’s so strong that it’s often used in bulletproof vests.

UHMWPE is produced through a gel-spinning process, which involves dissolving the polymer in a solvent, extruding it, and then drawing it out.

Beyond bulletproof vests, UHMWPE is used in medical devices, ropes, and even in artificial ice skating rinks.

Boron Nitride

Last but not least, boron nitride is a ceramic material that’s as hard as diamonds. It’s often referred to as “white graphite” due to its lubricating properties.

Boron nitride is produced by combining boron oxide and nitrogen at high temperatures.

Its electrical insulating properties make boron nitride perfect for semiconductors. It’s also used in cosmetics for its silky texture.