Chemistry
An unusual material that consists of a complex jumble of intricately entwined tubes isn’t much use on its own – but the technique needed to build it could be
Plumber’s nightmare consists of an intricate tangle of tubes
Alisyn J. Nedoma
A strange and fiendishly difficult-to-create material known as “plumber’s nightmare” has been made from tiny, intertwined tubes. Though the substance itself isn’t especially useful, the technique needed to produce it could be used to build other hard-to-make materials.
Plumber’s nightmare consists of a pattern of six intersecting tubes, meaning that a sample contains many tubes connecting and intersecting in complex ways. The material was first theorised 20 years ago and has previously been made from soap-like molecules in water,…
No commitment, cancel anytime*
Offer ends 28th October 2023.
*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.
Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)
or
Existing subscribers
More from New Scientist
Explore the latest news, articles and features