Mineral Nano-Interconnectivity Stiffens and Toughens Nacre-like Composite Materials.

Bulk nacre-like composites with mineral nano-interconnectivity at the same length scale as in the biological material are produced using magnetic alignment and selective sintering techniques. These materials display stiffness and strength levels comparable to that of continuous fiber composites with the advantage of easier processability inherent of discontinuous composites. This opens new possibilities to produce parts with more complex designs.