LLNL Researchers Explore Future of Responsive 3D-Architected Materials

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Researchers from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, the California Institute of Technology and Princeton University have introduced a revolutionary new class of materials known as 3D polycatenated architected materials. These intricate structures can behave with both solid and liquid-like properties and have the potential to impact industries ranging from engineering to medicine. (Graphic: Dan Herchek/LLNL. Photos: Xiaoxing Xia. Cover image reprinted with permission from AAAS)
Researchers from Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, the California Institute of Technology, and Princeton University have introduced a revolutionary new class of materials known as 3D polycatenated architected materials. These intricate structures can behave with both solid and liquid-like properties and have the potential to impact industries ranging from engineering to medicine (graphic: Dan Herchek/LLNL; photos: Xiaoxing Xia.; cover image reprinted with permission from AAAS).

March 25, 2025 | Originally published by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) on February 12, 2025

In the evolving fields of materials science and 3D printing, engineers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) are exploring novel ways to create materials and structures that adapt and respond to their environments.

A recent study featured on the cover of Science, conducted in collaboration with the California Institute of Technology (CalTech) and Princeton University, has introduced a revolutionary class of materials known as 3D polycatenated architected materials (PAMs). These intricate structures can behave with both solid and liquid-like properties and have the potential to impact industries ranging from engineering to medicine.

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