Not yet. But they do own the right to use the technology. As of this writing, the Liquidmetal created by a California company is still way too expensive to be used for large scale industrial production.
While most of us are reminded of the indestructible liquid metal T1000 from Terminator 2 at the mention of “Liquidmetal,” let’s take it easy and assess the material’s better (and real life) qualities beyond sci-fi horror.
What is Liquidmetal?
Liquidmetal is essentially tougher than most alloys because of its atomic structure, which isn’t as rigid as your average hunk of steel. By comparison, Liquidmetal atoms are asymmetrical, thereby increasing its ability to withstand greater pressure. This unique atomic arrangement allows it to absorb and dissipate energy more effectively, making it highly resistant to deformation and wear.
It also looks better because Liquidmetal in its physical form is akin to glass, but a lot less brittle. Once its main ingredients of beryllium and platinum are brought under control, the resulting alloy is a lot more durable and creates better products. The material’s glass-like appearance also gives it a sleek and modern aesthetic, which is highly desirable in consumer electronics and luxury goods.
Applications and Future Potential
Currently, Liquidmetal is used in a variety of specialized applications where its unique properties are highly valued. For instance, it is employed in the medical field for making surgical instruments and implants due to its biocompatibility and resistance to corrosion. In the sports industry, Liquidmetal is used to manufacture high-performance equipment like golf clubs and tennis rackets, where its strength and elasticity can significantly enhance performance.
In the realm of consumer electronics, Liquidmetal has the potential to revolutionize the industry. Its durability and aesthetic appeal make it an ideal material for creating sleek, long-lasting devices. We won’t likely see this technology in consumer technology given the price of platinum, but I’m sure that Apple, as always, will find a way to use this in their future iGadgets. Apple has already secured the rights to use Liquidmetal, and there have been rumors and patents suggesting its potential use in various components, from casings to internal mechanisms.
Moreover, Liquidmetal’s resistance to scratching and denting could make it an excellent choice for wearable technology, such as smartwatches and fitness trackers, which are subject to daily wear and tear. Its lightweight nature also makes it suitable for portable devices, potentially leading to thinner and lighter smartphones and tablets.
Despite its promising attributes, the high cost of production remains a significant barrier to widespread adoption. The primary challenge lies in the cost of raw materials, particularly platinum, and the complex manufacturing processes required to produce Liquidmetal components. However, ongoing research and development efforts aim to find more cost-effective methods and alternative materials that could make Liquidmetal more accessible for large-scale industrial production.
In conclusion, while Liquidmetal is not yet ready for mass-market applications, its unique properties and potential uses make it a material worth watching. As technology advances and production costs decrease, we may eventually see Liquidmetal become a common feature in a wide range of products, from medical devices to consumer electronics. Until then, it remains a fascinating example of how cutting-edge materials science can push the boundaries of what is possible.
via
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
