Secret Atomic Patterns Discovered in Metals
Researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have challenged conventional wisdom by discovering hidden atomic patterns in metal alloys that persist during manufacturing.
According to the study, these subtle patterns can be tweaked to enhance the material's properties, including mechanical strength, durability, and radiation tolerance.
"This is the first paper showing these non-equilibrium states that are retained in the metal,"says MIT materials scientist Rodrigo Freitas.
Recent lab studies have identified these patterns, and simulations have revealed how they emerge and linger even after intense processing, opening up new ways to control the properties of metals during manufacturing.
Author's summary: Researchers discover hidden atomic patterns in metals.