Bulletproof chainmail? Next-gen fabric stiffens on demand

Materials that change their properties in response to certain stimuli could come to occupy a valuable space in many fields, ranging from robotics, to medical care, to advanced aircraft. A new example of this type of shape-shifting technology is modeled on ancient chain mail armor, enabling it to swiftly switch from flexible to stiff thanks to carefully arranged interlocking particles.

Chain mail gorget with padded – Master Uley, Chain Mail

Penny-Wise Perfection Lady Knight Silver Medieval Armor Chain Mail Stock Photo by ©Ravven 340332200, chain mail

Penny-Wise Perfection Lady Knight Silver Medieval Armor Chain Mail Stock Photo by ©Ravven 340332200, chain mail

Penny-Wise Perfection Lady Knight Silver Medieval Armor Chain Mail Stock Photo by ©Ravven 340332200, chain mail

Image of Historical reenactment: Templar knight with sword and chain mail, 13th, Chain Mail

Penny-Wise Perfection Lady Knight Silver Medieval Armor Chain Mail Stock Photo by ©Ravven 340332200, chain mail

Bulletproof chainmail? Next-gen fabric stiffens on demand

Chain mail gorget with padded – Master Uley, Chain Mail

Armor

Armor

Mythrojan Chainmail Coif Medieval Knight Renaissance Armor Chain Mail Hood Viking LARP 16 Gauge, Chain Mail

Chain mail gorget with padded – Master Uley, Chain Mail

Penny-Wise Perfection Lady Knight Silver Medieval Armor Chain Mail Stock Photo by ©Ravven 340332200, chain mail