Researchers at the University of Manchester have made a groundbreaking discovery in the study of pterosaur fossils, which could lead to the development of lighter, stronger materials for future aircraft. By using advanced X-ray imaging, they found a network of microscopic canals in the bones of pterosaurs that helped to protect against small cracks and add strength. These canals were previously unknown and were likely used for nutrient transport and structural maintenance.
The researchers believe that this design could be mimicked in metal 3D printing, producing airplane parts with internal channels that mirror the natural bone architecture. This could lead to the creation of aircraft that are not only lighter and stronger but also more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
The study’s authors hope that by studying the unique properties of pterosaur bones, they can unlock new materials and technologies that can help build a more sustainable future. They plan to continue scanning more pterosaur fossils to uncover additional secrets and potentially create new biomimetic solutions for 21st-century engineering challenges.