New material mimics properties of cartilage

Researchers believe the new material could be used for a wide range of engineering purposes, including the potential for a new generation of lightweight bearings.

Cartilage — a soft fibrous tissue found around joints that provides protection from compressive loading generated by walking, running or lifting — is a bi-phasic porous material that exists in solid and fluid phases. It switches to its fluid phase by absorbing synovial fluid, a viscous substance produced in the joints.

This fluid lubricates the joints and when held in the porous matrix of the cartilage also provides a hydroelastic cushion against compressive forces. Because cartilage is porous, the synovial fluid eventually drains away and helps dissipate the energy forces travelling through the body, which protects joints from wear and tear and impact injuries. At this point, the cartilage returns to its solid phase and the cycle can be repeated.

Cartilage inspires new durable material for structural batteries