Researchers at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) are studying the atomic-level changes in metals undergoing shear deformation in order to deduce the effects of physical forces on these materials, according to a report by Phys.org published on Monday.
The work could lead to many new and improved applications such as longer-lasting batteries and lighter vehicles.
"If we understand what happens to metals on an atomic level during shear deformation, we can use that knowledge to improve countless other applications where metals experience those same forces—from improving battery life to designing metals with specific properties, like lighter, stronger alloys for more efficient vehicles," said Chongmin Wang, PNNL Laboratory fellow and leader of the research team behind these new experiments.
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