A team of material scientists at Pohang University of Science and Technology, South Korea, announced its discovery of a new alloy that has the same strength-to-weight ratio as titanium alloys, but at just tenth the cost, Fast Company reports.
The research team, which consisted of Professors Hansoo Kim and Nack J. Kim, as well as doctoral student Sang-Heon Kim, found that nanometer-sized B2 crystal compounds—traditionally considered harmful for steels—can create a lightweight yet strong metal when dispersed within the steel’s grains.
Their research findings were published in the Feb. 5 edition of the journal Nature.
“With this innovative approach, stronger and more ductile lightweight steels [can] been created,” a statement from the university says.
Read more at Fast Company.
Related Stories
Building Enclosure Systems | Mar 13, 2013
5 novel architectural applications for metal mesh screen systems
From folding façades to colorful LED displays, these fantastical projects show off the architectural possibilities of wire mesh and perforated metal panel technology.
| Mar 9, 2013
NASCC: The Steel Conference to offer wide array of technology sessions
For the second consecutive year, NASCC: The Steel Conference provides a glimpse into the future of technology in steel construction with the Technology in Steel Construction Conference (TSCC). This special track features nine informative sessions that focus on advanced technology use throughout the steel construction industry, from various topics on building information modeling (BIM) to interoperability.
| Mar 5, 2013
AISC to give away 14 passes to 2013 NASCC: The Steel Conference
The American Institute of Steel Construction is giving away 14 complimentary full registration passes (each worth $480) to its annual NASCC: The Steel Conference, April 17-19, in St. Louis.
| Mar 1, 2013
AISC to offer $135,500 in student scholarships for 2013-2014 academic year
The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC), in conjunction with several of its structural steel industry partners, is offering $135,500 in scholastic aid for the 2013-2014 academic year.
| Feb 26, 2013
CRSI releases new technical note on stainless steel reinforcing bars
The Concrete Reinforcing Steel Institute (CRSI) has released a new technical note, Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Stainless Steel Reinforcing Bars, to its online collection.
| Feb 25, 2013
AISC seeks proposals for development of BIM best practices guide
The American Institute of Steel Construction seeks assistance from BIM users in identifying and documenting best practices to facilitate the long-term standardization of BIM in structural steel construction.
| Feb 25, 2013
Turner employs rare 'collapsible' steel truss system at Seattle light rail station
To speed construction of the $110 million Capitol Hill Station light-rail station in Seattle, general contractor Turner Construction will use an unusual temporary framing method for the project's underground spaces.
| Dec 17, 2012
Steel Stud Manufacturers Association donates $100,000 to industry research
SSMA is co-funding projects identified to be critical by the industry including research on fire rated intersections, clip-angle connections, blast resistant cold-formed steel framed walls, adoption of cold- formed steel framing in ASCE 41 and establishing cold-formed steel framing’s sustainability message.
| Nov 27, 2012
SFIA releases technical guide for cold-formed steel framing products
The 114-page book covers both structural and non-structural applications, including section properties of SFIA member product profiles, and complete load and span tables for most applications.
| Nov 12, 2012
AISC launches 'Night School' online educational program
The program's weekly webinar sessions offer structural engineers a great opportunity to enhance their professional development online while accommodating their schedules.