Researchers construct molecular nanofibers that are stronger than steel
Self-assembly of Kevlar-inspired molecules leads to structures with robust properties, offering new materials for solid-state applications.
Versatile building blocks make structures with surprising mechanical properties
The subunits could be robotically assembled to produce large, complex objects, including cars, robots, or wind turbine blades.
3 Questions: Harnessing wave power to rebuild islands
In the Maldives, an MIT team is conducting experiments to combat sea-level rise by redirecting natural sand movement.
Transformation by design
Skylar Tibbits makes materials that water, heat, or mechanical forces can alter into new shapes.
Assembler robots make large structures from little pieces
Systems of tiny robots may someday build high-performance structures, from airplanes to space settlements.
A new way of making complex structures in thin films
Self-assembling materials can form patterns that might be useful in optical devices.
Tiny motor can “walk” to carry out tasks
Mobile motor could pave the way for robots to assemble complex structures — including other robots.
“Peel-and-go” printable structures fold themselves
Expanding polymer enables self-folding without heating or immersion in water.
A new twist on airplane wing design
“Morphing” wing could enable more efficient plane manufacturing and flight.
Programming materials for better designs
Skylar Tibbits creates smart materials that elegantly transform themselves to improve processes and products.
Centimeter-long origami robot
Controlled by magnetic fields, tiny robot climbs inclines, swims, and carries loads twice its weight.
Origami robot folds itself up, crawls away
Prototype made almost entirely of printable parts demonstrates crucial capabilities of reconfigurable robots.
Bake your own robot
New algorithms and electronic components could enable printable robots that self-assemble when heated.
Switchable magnetic pillars
Graduate student Nicolas Aimon develops pulsed laser deposition techniques for mixed multiferroic oxide films.
Faculty highlight: Caroline Ross
New techniques for combining complex oxide thin films promise electrical control of magnetic properties for data storage and computing.