Drama in the scientific world! A team from Northwestern University has succeeded in creating a mechanically intertwined two-dimensional material. This little gem combines flexibility and strength, promising to revolutionize lightweight body armor and much more. This innovation opens the door to a host of new applications in the field of materials.
How it all started with mechanical links
The idea of mechanical links is not new. It was Fraser Stoddart, a famous chemist, who planted the seed in the 1980s at Northwestern University. He used these links to develop molecular machines capable of doing lots of things like rotating or contracting. His work on these structures even earned him the Nobel Prize in 2016. This solid foundation was a launching pad for the current team.
Trying to intertwine molecules with polymers was like trying to thread a needle with a string! William Dichtel, a chemistry professor at Northwestern, says the small rings (5-8 atoms) were too narrow to allow other molecules to pass through. In their latest study, they succeeded in making rings composed of 40 atoms per repeated unit on the 2D structure — a real breakthrough!
The secret behind this breakthrough
Madison Bardot, a talented doctoral student, has developed an ingenious process using X-shaped monomers. These are organized into hyper-ordered crystal structures. Then, they used another type of molecule to make connections between these crystals. Result ? A material made of two-dimensional polymer layers with incredible density: 100 trillions of mechanical links per square centimeter!
What are its characteristics and where can it be used?
This polymer stands out due to its ability to dissolve in solution, allowing the intertwined monomers to separate easily (handy for handling each sheet). Unlike other crystalline substances that are often brittle, this remains flexible thanks to the space left for each mechanical link. It is soft under light pressure but becomes hard under high pressure.
Researchers are already collaborating with colleagues at Duke University to explore its practical uses. By only adding 2,5 % from polymer to Ultem (a fiber close to Kevlar), its resistance and robustness have skyrocketed — ideal for making armor or ballistic protection.
-Soon available everywhere?
Until now, synthesizing these polymers remained a challenge that was mainly met in small quantities. But thanks to their innovative method, the team led by Dichtel was able to produce around half a kilo of the material — a real step towards mass production!
The stunning results obtained by this dynamic team were published in the journal Sciencemarking a key moment in the development of advanced materials.
This innovation not only boosts our scientific understanding; it also offers plenty of concrete opportunities to improve our daily lives. It invites everyone to dream big about the infinite possibilities offered by this emerging technology and pushes researchers around the world to continue on this promising path.
A reaction? Leave a comment
Did you like this article? Subscribe to our free Newsletter for engaging articles, exclusive content and the latest news.
