Bullet Researchers from the University of Kent have developed a shock-resistant protein-based material that surpasses those used in modern bulletproof vests.
Back in 2016, they discovered an amazing property of the talin protein molecule, which changes its structure under load — it contracts and absorbs the energy of exposure. This allows it to survive and protect the cells from a sharp impact.
Scientists placed talin molecules in a hydrogel, and then polymerized the substance and obtained a material called TSAM. During the tests, it turned out that he was able to stop a projectile flying at a speed of up to 1.5 km / s without collapsing. This is significantly faster than the projectiles of firearms move (0.4-1 km /s), and five times the speed of sound. Even most objects in space fly at a lower speed — about 1 km/s. What is even more interesting, TSAM dampens in a collision with a projectile, while it does not destroy itself and causes minimal damage to the projectile. Therefore, it can be used not only to stop a flying object — but also to catch it. This is extremely useful, for example, for hunting space debris for scientific purposes or for intercepting the latest enemy weapons in order to study them. TSAM easily resists both tiny micrometer-long projectiles and large aluminum shrapnel. Currently, the authors of the development are studying the possibility of using TSAM in armor and military equipment. The first experiments showed positive results, this material is not only stronger, but also more durable than ceramic or metal armor.
TSAM
