Hokkaido University scientists have created a new type of hydrogel composites that can be combined in a material that is five times stronger than stainless steel . The method involves adding soft hydrophilic polymer ##s to the glass fibres to create a tensile and tough material . The resulting composite hydrogel is 25 times stronger than glass fibre fabric and 100 times stronger than normal hydrogels . The material is environmentally friendly , being 40 % water , and could be used in artificial tendons and ligaments .
Hokkaido University scientists have created a new range of hydrogel composites that can be combined in a material that is five times stronger than carbon steel. The method involves adding soft hydrophilic polymer chains to miniscule glass fibres to create a tensile and tough material. The resulting composite hydrogel is 25 times stronger than glass fibre fabric and 100 times stronger than normal hydrogels. The material is environmentally friendly, being 40% water, and could be used in artificial tendons and ligaments.