Diamonds New Tough Rival Scientists: In a landmark achievement, scientists have successfully created an ultra-tough substance with strength comparable to diamonds, heralding significant advancements in materials science. Published in the prestigious journal Advanced Materials, the research team, comprising members from Europe, Russia, and North America, synthesized an organic semiconductor carbon nitride exceeding the hardness of cubic boron nitride, the second-hardest crystalline material after diamonds. This breakthrough, realized through a synthesis method mirroring natural diamond formation, involves intense pressure and high temperatures.
The implications of this discovery are vast. The ultra-tough substance holds promise for applications ranging from spacecraft protection to fortifying automotive materials. The possibility of various carbon nitrides with similar properties, initially predicted in the 1980s, has long been elusive, with scientists grappling for decades to create this fabled substance. Now, this successful synthesis opens doors to a plethora of uses, including a painted-on protectant for spacecraft and materials strengthening cars.
While diamonds have multifaceted applications, from mining drill bits to ornamental jewelry stones, this newly developed material could serve as a viable alternative in diverse manufacturing sectors. The breakthrough, achieved after over three decades of pursuit, is poised to pave the way for the creation of more ultra-tough substances, offering unprecedented opportunities in material engineering and technological innovation.
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Our Reader’s Queries
Have scientists really found something harder than diamond?
Lonsdaleite, a mineral stronger than diamond, has been discovered by scientists. This remarkable find has the potential to reinforce industrial tools such as drill bits and saw blades. Additionally, it can provide valuable insights into the evolution of our planet. With its exceptional strength, lonsdaleite is a game-changer in the field of materials science. Its discovery is a significant milestone that could lead to the development of more durable and efficient tools.
Is there anything harder than diamond?
Lonsdaleite, a carbon allotrope, boasts a remarkable 58% increase in hardness compared to diamond. This is due to its unique hexagonal geometry and enhanced bone density per unit area. Its exceptional strength makes it a highly sought-after material.
What’s the hardest substance known to man?
Diamond is currently the toughest substance known to man, boasting a Vickers hardness of 70-150 GPa. It possesses exceptional thermal conductivity and electrical insulation properties, making it a highly sought-after material for various applications. Researchers are constantly exploring new ways to utilize this remarkable substance in practical applications.
Is boron nitride harder than diamond?
Although cubic boron nitride is considered one of the hardest materials in the world, it falls short of being the absolute hardest. With a Vickers hardness of approximately 50 GPa, it ranks second to diamond. The hexagonal form of boron nitride, known as w-BN, was once thought to be even harder than diamond. However, this claim was based on theoretical simulations that predicted an indentation strength 18% higher than diamond. Despite this, cubic boron nitride remains a highly sought-after material for its exceptional hardness and durability.