Researchers Tout Metal Foam that Floats

A new metal matrix made of hollow silicon carbide spheres and magnesium alloy could dramatically reduce vehicle weight, especially in parts exposed to high heat and pressure, its developers say.

The so-called metallic syntactic foam was created by researchers at New York University Polytechnic School of Engineering. They partnered with Deep Springs Technology LLC, a Toledo, Ohio-based maker of hollow microspheres used in armor, aerospace, structural and buoyancy applications.

The team conducted its work in collaboration with the U.S. Army Research Laboratory. They reported details of their results last month in the International Journal of Impact Engineering.

The scientists point out their material, which has a density of only 0.9 g/cc, could be used to make boats and amphibious military vehicles that won't sink even if damaged. They also say their metal foam is strong enough and sufficiently heat-resistant for such automotive applications as engine and exhaust parts.

The developers say their material will be ready for prototype parts testing within three years.