Macrocrystals

New strong and lightweight materials may be used, for construction, radiation shielding, and novel optical applications.

New theories under development 2008

Abstract: Molecules in self-assembling chemical crystals are aligned in ordered rows and columns to form very stable structures and peculiar crystal shapes. The “macrocrystal theory” imitates that method and process by substituting chemical molecules with man-made mass-produced polygons. The polygons may have simple or complex shapes and sizes ranging from spheres, tetragons, pyramids, and cubes to complex interlocking structures, and sizes from tiny to any large size. Smaller polygons may form larger polygons in a progression leading to larger and larger structures. A first step is to mass-produce precise polygons in a volatile material such as wax or plastics. The sharp edges of the polygons are then rounded by tumble polishing. The polygons are then poured into a mold of the part to be produced and agitated by vibration or sound until each polygon has reached its lowest energy state by aligning with its neighboring polygons. The spaces between the polygons, around its rounded edges, are then filled with the final materials, such as metals, using electrolysis. The original polygon material, wax or plastics, is then removed by etching, washing, or high heat evaporation. What is left is a framework or metal grid following the rounded edges of the now empty polygon shapes. This three-dimensional metal grid is then finished by: etching, heat treatment, or electro-plating with other metals. The resulting three-dimensional parts provide radiation shielding, similar to light scattering in a rain cloud, by reflecting radiation randomly throughout the structure. Radiation shielding would work for any wavelength light, ranging from normal light to x-rays and even for micrometeorites. The materials would also have very interesting optical properties by tunneling light through the parts. In some orientations the parts would appear like solid metal, while in other orientations the parts may appear transparent like glass.

Applications: The new materials are especially suited for spaceship construction applications by combining high strength with flexibility and very light weight. High radiation and meteorite shielding may protect the spaceship crews during long space voyages. Novel optical properties may lead to new electronic telescopes without lenses or mirrors.

Keywords: Macrocrystals, radiation shielding, optical materials

Available downloadable documents:

Research paper 2008 – Macrocrystals – MS Word doc

Website paper 2008 -- Macrocrystals – Webpage htm

Slide show / tutorial 2008 – Macrocrystals – MS PowerPoint htm