Smaller is stronger -- now scientists know why

User rating: 4.6 / 5 after 65 vote(s)

Compression of a nickel pillar whose free end has a diameter of about 150 nanometers: before compression (right) the pillar has a high density of defects visible as dark mottling. After compression all the defects have been driven out a previously un ...
Compression of a nickel pillar whose free end has a diameter of about 150 nanometers: before compression (right) the pillar has a high density of defects, visible as dark mottling. After compression all the defects have been driven out, a previously unobserved process known as "mechanical annealing." Credit: National Center for Electron Microscopy

As structures made of metal get smaller -- as their dimensions approach the micrometer scale (millionths of a meter) or less -- they get stronger. Scientists discovered this phenomenon 50 years ago while measuring the strength of tin "whiskers" a few micrometers in diameter and a few millimeters in length. Many theories have been proposed to explain why smaller is stronger, but only recently has it become possible to see and record what's actually happening in tiny structures under stress.


Full story »
All News summaries from Nanotechnology news
All News summaries for January 02, 2008
Goto Archive PhysOrg Forum Goto Archive Video Goto Archive Editorials Goto Archive Free Magazines Goto Archive Newsletter

News Archive