Question 4
Work in pairs. Read the text below about a new material made by scientists.
Graphene, a two-dimensional (2D) form of carbon, is considered to be the strongest known material. However, scientists have found it challenging to find useful three-dimensional (3D) applications for graphene.
A team of researchers from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has developed an extremely strong and lightweight material by combining flakes of graphene under high heat and pressure. This new material has a structure that is similar to that of some corals and microscopic organisms called diatoms. The material is sponge-like as it is filled with tiny spaces. It has a very low density and is ten times stronger than steel.
Tests done on the new material showed that it can withstand high tension and pressure. These properties, together with its porous nature, could make this material valuable for applications such as water filtration and chemical processing.
Researchers found that the strength of the 3D form comes from its unique shape, and not the material itself. This suggests that strong, lightweight materials could be made from different substances by using similar shapes.
*Adapted from MIT News*
Name an effect this new material could have on modern life. Do more research if you need more information. Write down your thoughts.
Graphene, a two-dimensional (2D) form of carbon, is considered to be the strongest known material. However, scientists have found it challenging to find useful three-dimensional (3D) applications for graphene.
A team of researchers from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has developed an extremely strong and lightweight material by combining flakes of graphene under high heat and pressure. This new material has a structure that is similar to that of some corals and microscopic organisms called diatoms. The material is sponge-like as it is filled with tiny spaces. It has a very low density and is ten times stronger than steel.
Tests done on the new material showed that it can withstand high tension and pressure. These properties, together with its porous nature, could make this material valuable for applications such as water filtration and chemical processing.
Researchers found that the strength of the 3D form comes from its unique shape, and not the material itself. This suggests that strong, lightweight materials could be made from different substances by using similar shapes.
*Adapted from MIT News*
Name an effect this new material could have on modern life. Do more research if you need more information. Write down your thoughts.
