Researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) have developed a new approach to strengthen composite materials used in aircraft construction. The approach, called “nanostitching,” involves depositing microscopic forests of carbon nanotubes between the layers of the material to prevent cracks from spreading and weakening the material. In experiments, the researchers found that layers bonded with nanostitching improved the material’s resistance to cracks by up to 60% compared to composites with conventional polymers. The technology has the potential to make aircraft safer and more durable by preventing unintended failures. The MIT team has successfully tested the nanostitching technique on advanced composite materials, including thin-ply carbon fiber laminates, which are used in aerospace structures. The researchers believe that the next generation of aircraft could be built using this technology, resulting in aircraft with greater longevity and reduced maintenance costs.
Advanced Nanostitching for Enhanced Lightweight and Durable Composites
