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Princeton engineers create new oyster-inspired cement 17X more crack-resistant
Reza Moini’s lab often looks to biology for inspiration in its work on building materials. In this case, the team developed a composite inspired by a natural material called nacre, or mother of pearl, which is found inside certain seashells.
The researchers created beams with alternating layers of hexagonal cement tiles and thin polymer.In an article published June 10 in the journal Advanced Functional Materials, the research team led by Moini, an assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering, reported that creating alternating layers of tabulated cement paste and thin polymer can significantly increase crack resistance and the ability to deform without completely breaking (ductility). This sliding action, combined with the crack deflection and biopolymer deformation, enables nacre to endure substantial mechanical stress while maintaining its structural integrity, making it both strong and resilient. Reza Moini, left, and Shashank GuptaThe Princeton team has developed innovative composites inspired by nacre, utilizing conventional construction materials like Portland cement paste combined with a limited amount of polymer.
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