A carbon-fiber composite based on aromatic thermosetting copolyester (ATSP) can repeatedly heal cracks and recover shape when heated to specific temperatures, while maintaining mechanical integrity over hundreds of load–heal cycles, reports Texas A&M University. According to the research team, this material is several times stronger than steel yet lighter than aluminum. While stronger-than-steel claims pop…
The secret to next-gen batteries? It could be in the binder, says ORNL
A recent study focused on polymer binders could point to future breakthroughs in solid-state batteries, enabling safer, more powerful, and longer-lasting energy storage. Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have discovered that the molecular weight of these often-overlooked components plays a crucial role in the performance and durability of sulfide solid-state electrolytes (SSEs), a key…