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Researchers Make Bendable Concrete

Posted by CowboyNeal on from the flexible-roadways dept.

karvind writes "PhysOrg is reporting that scientists from University of Michigan have developed a new type of fiber-reinforced bendable concrete. The new concrete looks like regular concrete, but is 500 times more resistant to cracking and 40 percent lighter in weight. Tiny fibers that comprise about 2 percent of the mixture's volume partly account for its performance. Also, the materials in the concrete itself are designed for maximum flexibility. Because of its long life, the Engineered Cement Composites (ECC) are expected to cost less in the long run, as well." Michigan roads must make the perfect test cases for this stuff, and I look forward to their improvement.

9 of 399 comments (clear)

  1. A keyboard? by James_G · · Score: 4, Funny

    How quaint!

    1. Re:A keyboard? by Punboy · · Score: 5, Funny

      That would be SO much funnier if this were the right time period, if the article had to do with transparent aluminum, and if you had a scottish accent.

      --
      If you like what I've said here, and want to read more, go to http://www.krillrblog.com
    2. Re:A keyboard? by Anti+Frozt · · Score: 4, Funny

      Good God man! He's already at +4, Funny. I dunnaw think I can push 'im much more, Cap'n.

      --
      In C++, friends can touch each others private parts.
  2. Roads? Hah by nounderscores · · Score: 4, Funny

    How about a concrete jumping castle?

  3. concrete trampoline? by wcitech · · Score: 5, Funny

    why? because nobody makes the first jump. (shameless matrix refrence)

  4. Like most of life's problems... by Your+Pal+Dave · · Score: 5, Funny

    this one can be solved with bending - Bender Bending Rodriguez

  5. Re:Yes but... by cablepokerface · · Score: 5, Funny

    ...can it withstand the impact of a jet airplane?

    No, but because of it's bendability, it can actually dodge incomming plains.

  6. The look... by skander · · Score: 5, Funny

    World Trade Center made of bendable concrete: 262m $US
    747: 5m $US
    Razor Blade to hijack plane: 2.95 $US

    The look on Osama's face as the plane bounces off the building: priceless.

  7. Re:Yes but... by kieran · · Score: 4, Funny

    Best not use it for runways, then.