Engineers have created a new class of materials, called metamaterials, using artificial intelligence and advanced technologies. These metamaterials have unique properties that are radically different from traditional materials, paving the way for revolutionary applications in various fields.
Unlike ordinary materials, which have properties determined by their molecular composition, metamaterials derive their unusual characteristics from their special geometric structure. By employing digital design and 3D printing, researchers are able to develop materials with extreme properties, such as solid materials that behave like liquids.
Professor Amir Zadpur from the Department of Biomechanical Engineering highlights a novel approach to material creation: “Previously, designers were limited by the availability of materials. Our approach allows engineers to create materials with predetermined properties, straddling the line between structure and material – metamaterial.”
The main challenge in developing metamaterials lies in solving the reverse problem – finding the geometry that will yield the desired properties. In this aspect, artificial intelligence comes to the rescue. Researchers from the Technical University of Dorthta have developed a deep learning model that can solve reverse problems without assuming an infinite number of construction blocks, which is crucial for 3D printing’s limited resolution.
However, the durability of metamaterials has been a relatively neglected area, as many of them tend to fail quickly. A new study addresses this issue by identifying the most durable structures from a large pool of candidates, making the developments almost practical.
The potential of metamaterials is nearly limitless, with possibilities ranging from orthopedic implants and surgical tools to soft robots, adaptive mirrors, and exocostyms. Despite this, fully harnessing the potential of metamaterials remains a future endeavor, as current achievements merely serve as a gateway to future revolutionary applications.