COSMOS MAGAZINE
A deep-sea sponge called Venus’ flower basket has inspired Australian engineers to create a new, ultra-strong material.
The silica skeleton of a Venus’ flower basket sea sponge (Euplectella aspergillum). Credit: RMIT University
Modeled after the sponge’s intricate lattice skeleton, the material is "auxetic," meaning it contracts when compressed, unlike most materials
Computer simulations and 3D printing tests showed that this design is 13 times stiffer than existing auxetic materials.
The team’s double lattice structure (left) outperforms the standard re-entrant honeycomb design (right). Credit: RMIT University
Researchers plan to test steel versions with concrete and rammed earth, aiming to reduce steel and cement usage in construction.
Credit: RMIT University
This innovation could improve earthquake-resistant buildings, protective gear, and even medical applications.
Credit: Joel Filipe