Australian researchers led by RMIT University have demonstrated what they describe as the world’s first floating titanium structure made possible by 3D printing, according to DEVELOP3D.

The team built a metal-hybrid lattice metamaterial that stays buoyant in water — even after significant damage — by combining open titanium lattice struts with polyurethane foam. Samples floated in freshwater for more than two months in validation tests.

Compared at the same overall density, the floating titanium lattice is reported to be about 70% stronger than stainless steel or the high-density plastic typically used in jetties, buoys and floating sensors. Researchers also introduced a measure called skeletal density to help predict whether open structures will float.

Short-term corrosion testing in natural seawater from Melbourne’s Port Phillip Bay showed only a 0.15% mass loss after two weeks, with strength declining by less than 1%. A prototype marine buoy printed with the approach stayed stable in a turbulent seawater tank tilted up to 45 degrees, without a sealed casing, protective coating or extra flotation.

Next steps include scaling the parts and longer-term marine and deep-sea testing — a promising signal for anyone watching metal additive manufacturing push into harsh real-world environments.

Source: https://develop3d.com/3d-printing/new-floating-titanium-material-for-marine-developed/