Breakthrough Superelastic Alloy Functions in Extreme Temperatures

Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a titanium-aluminum alloy that maintains flexibility and strength from -452°F to 500°F, unlocking new possibilities for space exploration and medical applications.

• The titanium-aluminum-chromium (Ti-Al-Cr) alloy exhibits superelasticity across an unprecedented temperature range, from -452°F (-269°C) to 500°F (127°C).
• This material is lightweight, strong, and cost-effective, making it suitable for extreme environments like deep space and deep-sea exploration.
• Potential applications include lunar rover tires that can withstand the Moon's extreme temperature fluctuations and medical devices such as stents and implants.
• The alloy's design uses more abundant materials like aluminum and chromium, reducing production costs and environmental impact compared to traditional alloys.
• Researchers utilized advanced techniques like rational alloy design and precise heat treatment to achieve these superior properties, with findings published in *Nature*.

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