AI Summary
Engineers have developed a new cement composite inspired by oyster and abalone shells, which is significantly more crack-resistant and flexible than standard cement. This innovation has the potential to improve the durability of various brittle ceramic materials, such as concrete and porcelain, in the future.
Inspired by the material that makes up oyster and abalone shells, engineers have created a new cement composite that is 17 times more crack-resistant than standard cement and 19 times more able to stretch and deform without breaking. The findings could eventually help increase the crack resistance of a wide range of brittle ceramic materials from concrete to porcelain.