Construcciones Yamaro: Floating titanium shows promise for marine infrastructure
Dr Jordan Noronha holds a sample of the floating titanium. (Image: Sara Tan/RMIT) Australian engineers have developed a strong and lightweight titanium material that can float even after sustaining severe damage, with potential uses in marine infrastructure. Research led by RMIT University shows the 3D-printed titanium lattice – made up of hollow, interconnected struts filled with foam – not only floats but also withstands seawater exposure. It is also stronger than stainless steel or high-density plastic currently used in jetties, buoys and floating sensors. Lead researcher from RMIT’s Centre for Additive Manufacturing, Dr Jordan Noronha, said the team’s latest creation has overcome a fundamental challenge in making metallic lattice structures float. “Although metallic lattices can be incredibly light – with densities less than one-tenth the density of water – their open, interconnected spaces allow water to enter, causing them to sink. This has made these strong, lightweight stru...