Next-generation body armor could be based on ... sponges?

« Back to Article

Image of 2 Use your left and right arrow keys to navigate the gallery

« Prev | Next »

Scientists have replicated the flexible-but-tough internal structure of the sea sponge, to create a material that might find use in body armor (Photo: Shutterstock)

A diagram of one of the man-made spicules, with close-ups of its calcite nanobricks

Article Summary

Chances are that if you were heading into battle, you wouldn’t wish that you were covered in sponges. It turns out that the sea sponge, however, has a unique structure that allows it to be flexible while remaining relatively impervious to predators. Scientists have now simulated this structure, in a lab-created material that may someday find use in body armor.