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Scientists at McGill University, Canada, have created shatterproof glass by copying the structure of seashells.
Lead scientist François Barthelat [fran-SWAH bahr-th uh-lat] explained that seashells are covered by a sturdy material called nacre /ˈneɪ kər/. This material is composed of minerals that are stacked like a brick wall. When under pressure, these minerals slide past each other, allowing nacre to withstand strong impact.
By copying this brick-wall structure, the scientists were able to create glass that is 24 times stronger than regular glass. When this glass gets damaged, it just becomes misshapen instead of shattering into many pieces. Cracks on this new glass would also not spread like it does in regular glass.
To create the impact-resistant glass, the scientists used lasers to cut thin glass sheets into square patterns and covered them with plastic to improve strength. Then, they arranged the sheets to mimic the brick-like structure of nacre. Barthelat said that the glass proves that many things in nature can be used as inspiration to design and engineer materials.
Because of its properties, the glass is ideal for many things, including windows, gadget screens, and solar panel windshields. It is also easy to fabricate, so it can be produced in high volumes and sold at an affordable price.
Despite its good qualities, however, the glass is a little less transparent than regular glass and has a tendency to bend. The lead author said this problem could be addressed by adding regular glass to it, which would make it slightly less sturdy. However, it would still be three times stronger than other types of glass.