Durable Shape Shifting Metal Could Power Devices

Oct-09-13 Researchers have developed a shape-shifting metal that could be used to make devices that convert heat directly to electricity.

The metal, a special form called martensitic, is made by combining different metals to create an alloy that can be bent and still return to its original shape. Although this sort of metal has been known for some time, it tends to degrade until it cannot be used anymore.

The team, from the University of Minnesota, increased the durability of the alloy by adding zinc, gold and copper—creating a metal able to withstand more than 16,000 thermal cycles with very little degradation. According Professor Richard D. James, one of the team leaders, the metal could be used to created devices that “use the waste heat from computers and cells phones to recharge the battery and make them more efficient.” Other possible application include automatic sun-facing technology for space equipment, more efficient refrigerators and better sensors for cars and medical devices.

More Info about this Invention:

[DISCOVERY.COM]
[WIRED UK]

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