A composite material with metal layers of varying hardness can be produced through clever temperature variation The material has a legendary reputation. Damascus steel is hard yet tough because it consists of layers of different iron alloys.

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In ancient times, this was the material of choice, especially for sword blades. A team from the Max-Planck-Institut für Eisenforschung in Düsseldorf and the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology in Aachen has developed a process that allows this type of steel to be produced layer by layer in a 3D printer.

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The hardness of each individual layer can be specifically adjusted. Such composites could be of interest for aerospace components or tools produced with 3D printers. Damascus steel is often used for its typical decorative pattern. The composite material produced from the 3D printer by the Max Planck and Fraunhofer researchers also clearly shows the alternating hard and ductile layers. The technology […]

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